SUBSCRIBE
SUBSCRIBE
Try "researchers"
Home Blog Page 264

EU Pledges Stronger Security Cooperation with Nigeria

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
-
0
EU Pledges Stronger Security Cooperation with Nigeria

The European Union Parliament has reiterated the EU’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity through several peace and security initiatives, including programmes on disarmament, deradicalisation, reintegration, and peace building.

The Chairman of the Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, David MacAllister, stated this in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, at the end of a two-and-a-half-day visit by a European parliamentary delegation to Nigeria and the ECOWAS Commission.

MacAllister, while describing Nigeria as a strategic partner in Africa, observed that terrorism in Nigeria is not driven solely by ideology. He further pledged to strengthen cooperation with Nigeria in addressing security challenges, migration management, and sustainable development.

“Many factors contribute to it like inequality, youth unemployment, communal conflicts, weak governance, and environmental stress. We expect that all groups and vulnerable communities are best protected by the Nigerian authorities.”

According to the Chairman of the Committee, the visit underscored the EU’s commitment to building a stronger partnership with Nigeria.

“Our visit to Nigeria illustrates the willingness of the European Union’s institutions, and in this case the European Parliament, to strengthen relations between Nigeria and the European Union. We reciprocally need each other as reliable and constant partners, committed to multilateralism, international law, human rights, and a fairer and more sustainable world”, he said.

Read Also: Nigerian Senate, EU Delegation Strengthen Ties

Speaker Seeks Stronger Nigeria–EU Parliamentary Partnership

Speaking on migration and humanitarian response in Nigeria, the EU lawmaker expressed concern about the malnutrition crisis and migration pressures in parts of northern Nigeria, stressing that addressing humanitarian needs would help reduce irregular migration.

“We are deeply concerned by the malnutrition crisis, especially in the North-East and North-West,” he said. “Thousands of children’s lives are at stake. While the EU stands with Nigeria, more commitment from federal and state governments is urgently needed.”

According to him, migration management requires tackling its root causes by creating jobs and improving access to education and healthcare.

“We must work together to address the factors pushing people to migrate irregularly,” he added. “Sustainable development is the surest path to reducing migration pressure.”

‘Nigeria’s largest trading partner’

On development and investment, MacAllister reaffirmed that the European Union remains Nigeria’s largest trading partner and leading source of foreign direct investment, accounting for about one-third of its total FDI.

“Through our global gateway investment strategy, we are opening new opportunities in the digital economy, renewable energy, agriculture, health, and transport. With our member states and financial institutions, we are investing billions of euros in grants and loans”, he said.

While speaking on the shared democratic values with the EU, He maintained that Europe and Africa share a common future, reiterating EU’s continued support to Nigeria’s democratic institutions and human rights framework, describing them as the backbone of the partnership between both sides.

“Nigeria may not be a perfect democracy, but it is a democracy,” MacAllister said. “We highly respect our Nigerian colleagues and their commitment to democratic governance. The future of Europe and Africa are closely linked. Your success will also be our success. Our message as we return to Brussels is clear it is time for the European Union to engage more with and in Nigeria. We need Nigeria to partner with us to defend our common values, manage migration flows, and promote peace and development. Nigeria matters to the European Union”, he noted.

MacAllister, the leader of the six-member delegation added that discussions with Nigerian officials centred on peace building, migration management, and economic cooperation. With more emphasis on having a prosperous, stable, and democratic West Africa and a strong and stable Nigeria.

 

 

Nigerian Senate Screens, Confirms New Service Chiefs

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
-
0
Nigerian Senate Screens, Confirms New Service Chiefs

Lekan Sowande, Abuja

The Nigerian Senate has screened and confirmed the new Service Chiefs recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The new Service Chiefs are the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Army Staff, Major-General Waheedi Shaibu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke, and Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas.

President Tinubu, in a letter read during Tuesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urged lawmakers to give “expeditious consideration” to the nominees.

The appointments, according to the Presidency, form part of a strategic realignment aimed at deepening professionalism, boosting morale, and enhancing inter-agency coordination in national security operations.

The newly appointed Service Chiefs, accompanied by other senior military officers, arrived at the National Assembly Complex at about 10:00 a.m., local time.

The screening and confirmation exercise took place under tight security as Senators held a series of closed and open sessions to vet the nominees.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, said: “The screening is part of our constitutional duty. It is aimed at ensuring that only the most competent and patriotic officers are entrusted with safeguarding the nation. There is no need to ask them too many questions because we will be having a closed-door session with them.”

The Senator explained that the Senate’s oversight responsibility includes guaranteeing discipline, professionalism, and accountability within the armed forces, adding that the chamber expected a constructive engagement that would strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

One after the other, the Service Chiefs who took turns to answer questions from the legislators assured Nigerians of their readiness to safeguard the nation.

“As the Chief of Air Staff, if confirmed, Sir, my duties are very clear, direct, and they are simple. They are to secure the lives of Nigerians, their liberties and aspirations through the instruments of Air power in conjunction and synergy of both my colleagues in the Military and other security agencies.”

Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, urged the nominees to be loyal to the President and the constitution of the country.

“We urge all the nominees to be loyal to the Commander in Chief and loyal to our constitution. This is the underpinning in service, loyalty. We are sure with you and the zeal of Mr. President, to bring total security to this country will be accomplished, and we have no doubt you will do that. We thank Mr. President and we wish you good luck,” Barau said.

Before their confirmation, they went into a closed door session which is in line with the Senate’s tradition.

Lawmakers have consistently argued that discussions involving national security should not be held in open session to avoid compromising sensitive information.

It would be recalled that the newly appointed service chiefs met with the president on Monday, where they reportedly discussed the nation’s security challenges ahead of their formal assumption of duty and Senate confirmation.

On October 24, the President announced a shake-up in the military hierarchy, appointing General Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff to replace General Christopher Musa.

He also named Major-General Waheed Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral Idi Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff while Major General Emmanuel Undiendeye retained his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

 

 

Benue State Govt Confirms Outbreak of Rabies Disease

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma
-
0
Benue State Govt Confirms Outbreak of Rabies Disease

Benue State government, North Central Nigeria has officially confirmed an outbreak of rabies, a deadly neglected tropical viral disease that affects mammals, especially dogs and humans.

The Acting Director of Livestock Services in the State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Gabriel Amase confirmed that there have been at least 4 confirmed cases of rabies, with 24 others currently under investigation at the Veterinary Hospital in Vom, Plateau State.

In response to the outbreak, he said the Ministry has initiated measures to raise awareness among the public, including media sensitization campaigns.

According to him, some precautionary steps have been taken, such as the intensification of surveillance activities by the quarantine unit targeting new animals coming into the state.

Dr. Amase also announced plans by the Ministry for a mass vaccination campaign for dogs, adding that a ban had been placed to restrict the free movement of dogs in the state.

“Owners of dogs have been directed to ensure that their pets are vaccinated, and a ban has been placed on the movement of dogs to prevent further spread of the disease.”

Dr. Amase also urged parents to advise their children against interacting with dogs, particularly within this period.

The Director called on those in the habit of eating dog meat as a delicacy to suspend further consumption of dog meat as a precaution.

He added that the Ministry is also coordinating with neighboring states to prevent the spread of rabies across borders and plans to inform the Federal Ministry of Agriculture about the outbreak.

Efforts are also being made to secure funding for the vaccination campaign, and once the funds are released, the Ministry will begin targeted vaccination of dogs in high-risk areas.

According to Dr. Amase, the Ministry is working tirelessly to control the rabies outbreak and protect the public from the deadly disease.

 

 

Support President Tinubu’s Agenda, VP Shettima Urges Arewa Forum

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
-
0
Support President Tinubu’s Agenda, VP Shettima Urges Arewa Forum

By Timothy Choji, Abuja

Vice President Kashim Shettima has charged the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) to stand in solidarity with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Vice President made the call during an audience with a delegation from the Arewa Consultative Forum led by its Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He said: “There is no better time than now for the leaders of the North to stand together as one” in support of efforts by the Tinubu administration to wriggle the nation out of the economic and social morass it was hitherto enmeshed in.

He told members of the region’s apex socio-cultural organisation to resist the antics of a few mischief makers to fragment the unity of Nigeria.

He drew the distinction between greed and grievance as proposed by those he described as “architects of modern conflict,” observing that, “while some agitations arise from genuine grievances seeking justice and fairness, others are fuelled by greed—by the quest to exploit disorder for selfish gain.”

The Vice President said the task before the Tinubu administration is to spot the difference between genuine grievance and greed, with a view to embracing “legitimate calls for equity and inclusion, and to isolate the forces that seek to profit from chaos.”

“We have proven, time and again, that our diversity is our strength, that our differences in tribe, faith, and geography are the very bricks that make this house of destiny we live in. This is why we must continue to resist all attempts to divide us or stir mischief among us. Our future depends on unity, and unity must remain our creed,” he stated.

Equality

Dispelling claims of ethnic and religious slant by peddlers of marginalization, VP Shettima stated categorically that every group, faith, and tribe has a voice in national issues under the Tinubu administration, and that no group will be marginalized.

His words: “What we do as a government is to ensure that every group, every community, every faith, and every voice finds its place in the national conversation. We will never accommodate the marginalisation of any group. Our policies are designed to create opportunities for all—to lift every community through inclusion, education, and enterprise.”

The Vice President assured the northern leaders that they are an integral part of the Tinubu-led government, and that the administration is ready to partner with the ACF in advancing the cause of the region and the nation as a whole.

He said, “The trajectory of the North, however, has been a sobering one. We began as a region defined by stability, vision, and a deep commitment to building bridges across ethnic, religious, and geographic divides. But what we have inherited today is a geography scarred by insecurity, mistrust, and economic decline.

“We cannot afford to allow this chaos to fester. We owe our people not only the burden of ending the cycle of killings and destruction that have crippled our communities, but also the duty of ensuring justice for victims of violence and deprivation.

“This government is yours. Your interests shall always find representation here, for I am one of you. And where there is a shortcoming, I assure you that you have direct access to me. We exist to serve you, to represent you, and to uphold the values that make the North an equal stakeholder in Nigeria’s identity.”

VP Shettima outlined what he described as deliberate steps being taken by the administration to reposition the fortunes of the North, saying the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu “prioritises education, agriculture, industrialisation, and security as the pillars of northern revival.”

He continued: “We are strengthening the foundations of education through reforms that empower local governments and promote fiscal autonomy at the grassroots. Through the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), millions of northern students now have access to tertiary education without the financial barriers that once held them back.

“We are expanding vocational and technical training centres to prepare our youth for roles in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.”

The VP explained that under the current administration, Nigeria has moved beyond subsistence farming to large-scale commercial ventures that are transforming the vast arable land in the North into the nation’s food and industrial backbone.

“We are building agro-processing industries to create jobs and value chains, investing in microfinance systems to support smallholder farmers and MSMEs, and establishing industrial zones in key states such as Kano, Kaduna, and Sokoto to attract textile, leather, and food-processing industries,” he added.

Security

On security, VP Shettima said national security remains the administration’s topmost priority.

“Through coordinated security operations, we have neutralised notorious bandit leaders and restored relative stability to once-besieged communities. This is the foundation upon which we intend to rebuild the North—through peace, through justice, and through economic empowerment,” he noted.

Chairman of the BoT of ACF, Alhaji Dalhatu, commended the Tinubu administration for its bold reforms, applauding the commitment and support of the Vice President for the achievements recorded so far.

The BoT Chair said, “We are proud of what you are doing as Vice President, as well as the work and achievements of this administration. You are doing a good job of assisting the President in running the affairs of the country in difficult times. We are always happy to identify with you.”

He explained that the group was at the Presidential Villa to express solidarity with the government, and formally invite the Vice President to the forthcoming 25th anniversary celebration of the ACF, as well as deliberations on the development of the region.

Alhaji Dalhatu said, among other things, the ACF intends to launch an endowment fund to drive the socio-economic development of the northern region, especially in building models across different sectors that would be emulated by state governments in the region.

He added that the 25th anniversary celebration would also provide a platform for ACF to interact with other socio-cultural organisations across the country for the future and development of Nigeria.

Chairman of the National Executive Committee of ACF, Mamman Osuman, said the socio-cultural organisation will use the 25th anniversary to showcase the potentials of the northern region and make a bold statement about its commitment to a one, prosperous, united country.

He pledged the ACF’s support for the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the realisation of targets of the Tinubu administration.

CJN Games to Begin November 20th

Mosunmola Ore
-
0
CJN Games to Begin November 20th

The thirtieth edition of the annual Chief Justice of Nigeria CJN games is set to commence on the 20th of November 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom’s state capital.

The Judiciary games organised by the National Sports Association for Judiciary (NASAJ) is expected to attract not less than 10,000 athletes that will participate in various sporting events that have been lined up for competition this year.

The President of NASAJ, Sunday Noah speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital expressed optimism on hosting a successful tournament.

According to him, “Akwa Ibom State was chosen because of the peace, the hospitality of the people, and most importantly, the facility has been very, very wonderful.”

“We made several visits, we inspected facilities, we met all the people that are related and involved in the sports sector, and the response has been wonderful. Every hand is on deck to have a befitting judiciary game this year”

READ ALSO: 10,000 Athletes To Participate In NUGA Games

The president also clarified that the judiciary games comprises all the affiliates from the federal to the state governments.

“At the federal level, we have 12 affiliates.
 From Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, F.C.T. High Court, Customary Court of Appeal, Sharia Court of Appeal, N.J.I., N.J.C., and so on and so forth. All the federal courts and the federal judicial bodies are registered, ready to go.

And I want to inform you that many states are also participating. Lagos State, Kaduna, Kano, Delta, Bayelsa, Niger States and many are all coming for this important tournament”

He added “The games includes football, table tennis, athletics, there are male and female included.

“Table tennis is also male and female. We have badminton, handball, chess, golf, volleyball, and especially swimming, being a riverine area. We are going to participate in swimming, and many other sporting events to the delight of the spectators.”

He expressed confidence that the games can provide a platform for athletes to excel and go on to represent the country in international competitions.

Nigeria Customs, NAPTIP Strengthen Ties to Combat Human Trafficking

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
-
0
Nigeria Customs, NAPTIP Strengthen Ties to Combat Human Trafficking

The Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC, Adewale Adeniyi has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s readiness to cement collaboration with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) in combating human trafficking and the illegal trade in endangered species.

Adeniyi made this commitment when a delegation from NAPTIP paid him a courtesy visit at the Customs House in Maitama, Abuja.

The CGC, who appreciated the visit, commended the delegation for their continued service to the country and assured them of Customs’ unwavering support.

Adeniyi noted that Nigeria’s security challenges require joint action, stressing that “the Service does not view crimes solely through the lens of smuggling but through broader national security implications.”

“We believe in the power of collaboration. We can achieve more with less when we work together,” he said.

Adeniyi said that “the Service has intensified its work on environmental sustainability and the enforcement of international conventions regarding flora and fauna, assuring the delegation that Customs will fully collaborate on the upcoming national dialogue on human trafficking and stowaway incidents, scheduled for February 2026.”

He pledged to provide technical expertise, intelligence sharing, and access to the Service’s training curriculum to strengthen inter-agency understanding of trafficking dynamics.

“We will accept your request for partnership unconditionally. We will work with your designated officials on the February summit and explore wider interventions that reinforce national security,” Adeniyi added.

On her part, the Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu expressed delight at securing formal engagement with the Customs Service.

Adamu stated that NAPTIP was eager to strengthen operational partnerships, particularly in areas such as intelligence exchange, policy development, and cross-border enforcement.

“I am happy today that I finally made it here and held this discussion with the Comptroller-General. We are a law enforcement agency with mandates to prevent, prosecute and protect. Partnership with Customs is essential for our work.” she said.

Adamu noted that human trafficking continues to evolve, requiring close coordination among agencies operating at Nigeria’s multiple entry and exit points.

Speaking earlier, a former NIMASA Director of Public Relations, Lami Tumaka said the visit was to seek Customs’ partnership for a one-day national policy dialogue on human trafficking by sea and stowaway incidents.

Tumaka described Customs as a “strategic player in border management and maritime enforcement,” stressing that its involvement is critical to the success of the dialogue.

“Your officers are often the first line of defence against illicit movement of goods and persons. Your expertise and nationwide presence are indispensable,” Tumaka said.

Army Trains Personnel on Transformation Leadership

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
-
0
Army Trains Personnel on Transformation Leadership

The Department of Transformation and Innovation of the Nigerian Army Headquarters, has organised a seminar for junior and middle Cadre personnel as frontline commanders to boost operational effectiveness across the North West region of the country.

Declaring the seminar open in Sokoto, the Special Guest of Honor and the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, described the theme of the seminar: “Transformational Leadership and Nigerian Army Operational Effectiveness in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment” as apt and timely.

General Oluyede said it underscores leadership and operational effectiveness of the Army.

He said the current operational landscape of Army requires leadership with character, commitment and capacity for quick mental appreciation as well as the ability to translate available intelligence in to decisive action.

” As you all know, leadership is a critical component of combat power and remain central to the success of military operations globally.

“Therefore, opportunities to learn to lead better, just as this seminar offers, must be maximised and put to judicious use,” he said.

General Oluyede said the Nigerian Army has been at the forefront of the fight against terrorism and insurgency, making immense sacrifices to safeguard the peace and security of the nation.

“However, the dynamic and evolving nature of today’s treat landscape demands a holistic approach to leadership and the conduct of our operation.

“We must keep our minds open to learning not only from forums such as this seminar, but from real life experiences on the job,” he explained.

General Oluyede encouraged the participants of the seminar to make the best use of the opportunity to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experience of the lecture presenters for their overall benefits as leaders.

He expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.

” Mr President’s commitment to our operational and administrative needs has been pivotal to the successes achieved so far and continue to strengthen our capacity to safeguard the nation’s security and territorial integrity”, he noted.

General Oluyede was represented by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Joint Task Force Northwest Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose.

In his welcome address, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation, Major General Olusegun Abai, said the seminar focused on enhancing leadership capacity among junior and mid-cadre officers. It also addressed the negative impact of substance abuse and Post-Traumatic Disorder on operational efficiency.

He noted that the initiative aligns with the command philosophy of Chief of Army Staff focusing on transformation through effective leadership, sound administration, professionalism and combat readiness.

General Abai represented by the Director Transformation and Innovation Headquarters Nigerian Army, Major General Muhammed Usman, noted that the seminar also provided a valuable opportunity for discussion, idea-sharing and collaboration.

He urged the participants to use the avenue to learn from their expertise and broaden their knowledge for effective operational efficiency.

The Chief of Army Transformation and Innovation commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for approving the seminar and providing all necessary resources and guidance to the department.

The Seminar featured three key lectures: ‘Building the Leadership Capacity of Junior and and Mid-cadre Commanders,’ Effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder on Nigerian Army Operational Effectiveness,’ and ‘ Effects of Drugs and Substance Abuse on Combat Readiness in the Nigerian Army among others.

Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission Marks 20 Years of Service

Rita Obiora
-
0
Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission Marks 20 Years of Service

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has commenced the commemoration of its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated service in regulating and shaping Nigeria’s electricity supply industry.

Established on October 31, 2005, under the Electric Power Sector Reform Act (EPSRA) 2005, now replaced by the Electricity Act 2023, NERC has been at the forefront of reforms driving the evolution of the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

Over the past twenty years, NERC has navigated the challenges of establishing a robust regulatory framework, overseeing the unbundling and privatisation of the power sector, and guiding the development of a competitive electricity market.

From the early post-privatisation and Interim Market stages to the current Transition Electricity Market, the Commission has consistently championed transparency, accountability, consumer protection, and sustainable growth.

Read Also: Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Power Sector Transformation

Electricity Commission Approves N28bn to Accelerate Meter Rollout

Speaking ahead of the anniversary, NERC Vice Chairman, Dr. Musiliu Oseni, described the 20th anniversary as not just a milestone but a reaffirmation of the Commission’s mandate to protect consumers, promote investment, and ensure a level playing field in Nigeria’s electricity sector.

Dr. Oseni added that NERC remains steadfast in its commitment to driving reforms that deliver tangible value to Nigerians, balancing consumer interests with investor confidence to ensure a reliable and sustainable power industry.

Anniversary Activities

To commemorate this significant milestone, NERC has lined up a series of events designed to celebrate its achievements, engage stakeholders, and chart a forward-looking agenda for the future of electricity regulation in Nigeria. Highlights include:

• Technical Session: Panel discussions featuring distinguished thought leaders and experts in the power sector.

• Health and Wellness Session: Activities promoting staff well-being and team spirit.

• Debate Contest: A secondary school competition on energy-saving practices.

• Commemorative Dinner: Honouring pioneer and deceased staff, as well as past chairmen and commissioners.

These activities are intended to foster collaboration, innovation, and public engagement, reflecting NERC’s ongoing role as a catalyst for progress in the electricity sector.

Looking ahead

As NERC marks two decades of impact, the commission remains committed to advancing reforms that align with Nigeria’s broader energy transition and sustainability goals. It will continue to regulate the industry in the public interest, balancing the needs of consumers and operators while promoting efficiency, competition, and reliable service delivery.

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) is an independent regulatory body established under the Electricity Act 2023. NERC’s mandate includes setting tariffs, issuing licences, protecting consumers, monitoring market performance, and promoting competition and efficiency across Nigeria’s electricity supply industry.

ntel to Rejoin Telecoms Market in Q1 2026

Mercy Chukwudiebere
-
0
ntel to Rejoin Telecoms Market in Q1 2026

Nigeria’s indigenous telecommunications company, ntel, has announced plans to officially re-enter the nation’s telecoms market in the first quarter of 2026.

The plans mark a major comeback under a renewed strategy that prioritizes innovation, inclusion, and sustainability.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Soji Maurice-Diya, confirmed the development during the Technology Times Thought Leadership Series, a platform that brings together decision-makers shaping Nigeria’s digital transformation to share insights and foresight on technology and policy innovation.

Maurice-Diya, who leads NatCom Development & Investment Limited (trading as ntel), described the comeback as “the beginning of a new chapter not just for ntel, but for Nigeria’s telecoms industry as a whole.”

He said; “the new ntel will adopt a digital-first, infrastructure-light MVNO model, focusing on strategic partnerships, digital innovation, and efficient service delivery rather than extensive physical infrastructure.”

“We are not returning to be another operator chasing millions of subscribers.

“We are coming back to serve a new generation of Nigerians who value innovation, efficiency, and authenticity in their digital experience. Our comeback will be defined by focus, speed, and value creation,” Maurice-Diya said.

Innovation-Driven Re-entry

According to the ntel CEO, the company’s re-entry strategy emphasises partnership over ownership, platforms over towers, and experiences over expansion.

He explained that ntel would leverage existing wholesale network agreements and spectrum-sharing arrangements to deliver affordable and innovative data, content, and enterprise solutions without duplicating infrastructure.

“We have learned that success in the modern telecoms landscape is not about how much spectrum you own—it’s about how intelligently you use it,” Maurice-Diya noted.

He said the company would target youth-driven digital inclusion, providing affordable data and next-generation digital services aimed at bridging Nigeria’s innovation divide.

“Our youths are digital natives, the most connected, creative, and ambitious generation in our history. ntel will be their platform to learn, build, and thrive in the new digital economy,” he explained.

Strengthening the Digital Economy

Maurice-Diya situated ntel’s return within Nigeria’s broader digital economy strategy, emphasizing the critical role of telecoms as the foundation of national competitiveness.

He said; “Telecoms is the spine of the digital economy. Without robust connectivity, digital transformation cannot scale,” 

Maurice-Diya also called for greater coordination among key agencies including the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), NITDA, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), to ensure coherent policies that accelerate innovation and investment.

“We must harmonise digital policy to reduce friction, simplify compliance, and create predictability for investors. The digital economy is too important to be fragmented,” he stressed.

Thought Leadership Series

The Technology Times Thought Leadership Series serves as a bridge between innovation, industry, and informed public discourse. It is hosted by Technology Times, Nigeria’s trusted voice on technology innovation and digital transformation since 2004.

The series features one-on-one interviews, panel discussions, and insights from business and policy leaders shaping Nigeria’s digital future.

 

 

 

Mercy Chukwudiebere

Nigeria Signs $400m Deal to Revive Steel Industry

Rita Obiora
-
0
Nigeria Signs $400m Deal to Revive Steel Industry

By Bitrus Kozah, Abuja

The Nigerian Government has signed a $400 million joint strategic cooperation agreement with Stellar Steel Company Limited to establish a modern steel plant in Ewekoro, Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria.

The agreement is part of efforts to revive Nigeria’s long-dormant steel industry and reduce dependence on imported steel.

The landmark agreement, signed in Abuja Nigeria’s capital on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, was endorsed by the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, and Mr. Li, President of Inner Galaxy Group, on behalf of Stellar Steel.

Speaking during the ceremony, Prince Audu said the collaboration is a major step towards achieving the Federal Government’s target of producing 10 million tonnes of crude steel annually by 2030, thereby driving industrial self-reliance and economic diversification.

“This partnership marks a new era for Nigeria’s steel industry and demonstrates the government’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth and economic transformation,” the Minister stated.

Under the deal, Stellar Steel, backed by major Chinese investors Galaxy Group and RSIN Group of Fuzhou, Fujian Province, will invest $400 million in constructing a state-of-the-art steel plant to be developed in three phases, with production expected to begin by mid-2026.

Read Also: Ministry to Strengthen Metallurgical Research in Steel Industry

Prince Audu noted that the Ministry “will facilitate policy and infrastructure support for the project, including the inclusion of Stellar Steel’s logistics components in the National Infrastructure Plan and access to fiscal incentives.”

Key highlights of the cooperation include: development of a localised iron ore supply chain, saving over $1 billion in foreign exchange annually; creation of more than 2,000 direct and 20,000 indirect jobs across the steel value chain; promotion of green steel production through clean, energy-efficient technologies; and strengthening of Nigeria’s position as a regional steel manufacturing hub in West Africa.

Prince Audu further revealed that Stellar Steel will prioritise local recruitment and training, partnering with Nigerian universities to build technical and managerial expertise in steel production.

Global safety and environmental standards

In his remarks, Mr. Li assured the Minister that Stellar Steel will adhere strictly to all agreements and complete the project within schedule, emphasising that the company will maintain global safety and environmental standards throughout the project lifecycle.

“We are fully committed to Nigeria’s industrial growth and will ensure the project is completed in record time,” Mr. Li pledged.

He was accompanied by Mr. You Xiastian, Vice Chairman of RSIN Group; Mr. Jackie Den, Vice President of Inner Galaxy Group; and Mr. Yin, Director of RSIN Group.

Mr. Li also recalled that the Minister had performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the project in April 2025, describing the current signing as the beginning of an “implementation phase that will deliver tangible results.”

The partnership, both sides agreed, is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base, create jobs, and foster technology transfer to boost local production capacity in the steel sector.

1...263264265...3,357Page 264 of 3,357

HEALTH

ENTERTAINMENT & TOURISM

WORLD

NEWS COMMENTARY

NEWS FEATURE

Voice Of Nigeria Mission is “Reflecting Nigerian and African perspectives in our broadcasts, winning and sustaining the attention, respect and goodwill of listeners worldwide, particularly Nigerians and Africans in the Diaspora … making Nigeria’s voice to be heard more positively in the shaping of our world.”

More from CN

Contact

© Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service