New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Vice President Shettima urges world-class standards for made-in-Nigeria products

    Vice President Shettima urges world-class standards for made-in-Nigeria products

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has charged members of the National Council on Skills (NCS)—comprising federal ministries, state governments and the private sector—to ensure that Made-in-Nigeria products and services remain synonymous with world-class standards.

    He urged the council to harness the restless, inventive spirit of Nigerians, evident across streets, schools and workshops, by channelling this energy into powering the nation’s ongoing industrial revolution.

    In a statement on Friday, Shettima, who chaired the 8th NCS meeting at the Presidential Villa on Thursday, emphasised that as the council moves towards inaugurating the National Working Committee for WorldSkills Nigeria, its responsibility extends well beyond preparations for Shanghai 2026. He noted that the council’s work is central to positioning Nigeria as a hub of innovation and skills development in Africa.

    The 48th WorldSkills Competition, organised by WorldSkills International, will bring together skilled young professionals from across the globe to compete in diverse fields ranging from engineering and construction to information technology and creative arts. Nigeria’s participation, Shettima stressed, is not only about showcasing talent but also about benchmarking national standards against global best practices, thereby strengthening the country’s competitiveness in the international marketplace.

  • Peter Obi urges unity beyond tribe and tongue, harnessing Nigeria’s diversity for strength

    Peter Obi urges unity beyond tribe and tongue, harnessing Nigeria’s diversity for strength

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — Mr Peter Obi, leader of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) and presidential aspirant for the 2027 general elections, on Thursday issued a statement titled “Beyond Tribe and Tongue”, stressing that Nigeria’s mosaic of tribes, languages and religions should serve as a source of strength rather than division.

    Obi cited India as a classic example, noting that despite its vast landmass—nearly three and a half times larger than Nigeria—and its diverse mix of religions and cultures, it has evolved into a global benchmark for democracy. With a population exceeding one billion and close to one billion registered voters, of whom about 700 million typically participate in elections, India has established a system widely regarded as free, fair and credible. Its electoral processes are conducted with remarkable efficiency, often recorded in real time and largely free of glitches.

    The former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election further observed that beyond the ballot, India has emerged as a global leader in STEM—science, technology, engineering and mathematics—while transforming its healthcare system, extending medical insurance to over half of its population. These achievements, he argued, are the result of deliberate efforts to strengthen centripetal forces—those elements that bind a nation together—rather than amplify centrifugal impulses of division that continue to challenge Nigeria.

    “When I advocate for the unity of Nigeria, I do so with deep sincerity and conviction. Our cohesion is an indispensable foundation for peaceful coexistence, sustainable development and enduring national stability. I urge my fellow Nigerians to reflect on the example of India—a nation with a far larger population and an even more intricate web of ethnic and religious diversity—yet one that continues to forge unity from complexity,” Obi stated.

    The statement reads in part: “Ultimately, the true fault lines in our national life are neither tribal nor religious. No tribe or religion enjoys cheaper food in the market, nor is any group more secure than another. Our real challenge lies in competence, capacity, compassion and the commitment to build a better country. Only then can we move beyond tribe and tongue and create a nation that truly works for all.”

  • Access Holdings’ Aig‑Imoukhuede meets Cameroon Prime Minister as WTO Conference continues

    Access Holdings’ Aig‑Imoukhuede meets Cameroon Prime Minister as WTO Conference continues

    AFRICA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — The Chairman of Access Holdings PLC, Aigboje Aig‑Imoukhuede CFR, on Friday was received by His Excellency Joseph Dion Ngute, Prime Minister of Cameroon, in Yaoundé.

    The meeting formed part of Aig‑Imoukhuede’s official visit to Cameroon, coinciding with the ongoing 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation (MC14), held from 26–29 March 2026. The high‑level gathering has brought together trade ministers and global stakeholders to deliberate on reforms, e‑commerce, investment facilitation, fisheries subsidies and agriculture.

    The WTO’s Ministerial Conference in Yaoundé is widely regarded as a pivotal event for global trade, placing Cameroon at the centre of international discussions. Decisions taken are expected to shape the future of the multilateral trading system, particularly in areas of reform, agriculture, fisheries and digital trade.

    According to a statement by Access Bank, discussions between the two leaders focused on strengthening collaboration with the Government of Cameroon in line with its economic transformation agenda. 

    Both leaders highlighted support for public finance management, improved access to foreign exchange for priority sectors, infrastructure financing, and the development of sustainable and resilient economic systems. The talks also underscored the importance of private‑sector partnerships in driving inclusive growth and ensuring that Cameroon’s economy remains competitive in the evolving global trade landscape.

  • Ukraine and Saudi Arabia sign defence cooperation pact

    Ukraine and Saudi Arabia sign defence cooperation pact

    INTERNATIONAL (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — Ukraine has signed a landmark defence cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia, positioning itself as a global security partner following its battlefield experience in the war with Russia.

    The document, signed as part of the meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, establishes a framework for future contracts, technological collaboration and investment, while strengthening Ukraine’s role as a security donor.

    In a statement on Friday, Zelenskyy said Ukraine was ready to share its expertise and defence systems with Saudi Arabia to enhance the protection of lives. “Now into the fifth year, Ukrainians are resisting the same kind of terrorist attacks – ballistic missiles and drones – that the Iranian regime is currently carrying out in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Saudi Arabia also has capabilities that are of interest to Ukraine, and this cooperation can be mutually beneficial,” he noted.

    The Ukrainian leader added that discussions also covered the wider Middle East and Gulf situation, Russia’s support for Iran, developments in fuel markets and prospects for energy cooperation.

  • Nigeria’s Finance Minister meets IMF Africa Group III Executive Director

    Nigeria’s Finance Minister meets IMF Africa Group III Executive Director

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, on Friday received Dr Quattara Wautabouna, Executive Director for the IMF Africa Group III (ECOWAS Constituency), during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

    According to a statement from the Ministry, discussions centred on strengthening regional economic coordination and enhancing collaboration within the ECOWAS constituency. The Minister emphasised the importance of continued engagement to support economic stability and shared growth objectives across the region.

    The IMF Africa Group III has been pivotal in supporting economic and institutional projects across West Africa. In Ghana, its US$3 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme is stabilising the economy through debt restructuring and fiscal reforms. Nigeria, though not under a lending programme, benefits from IMF-backed reforms, such as subsidy removal, improved functioning of the foreign exchange market, and fiscal discipline. Sierra Leone is implementing a 38‑month ECF arrangement worth SDR 187 million (about US$253 million), focusing on macroeconomic adjustment and climate resilience. Liberia has also received disbursements under its ECF programme, including US$26.5 million in October 2025, to strengthen fiscal management and infrastructure.

    Beyond individual countries, the IMF supports regional capacity building through AFRITAC West 2, which covers Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, The Gambia and Cabo Verde. This initiative provides technical assistance and training in public finance, macroeconomic management and financial sector oversight. Collectively, these projects underscore the IMF’s commitment to stabilising economies, reinforcing reforms and building institutional resilience across West Africa.

  • Nigeria moves to institutionalise landmark ACReSAL project

    Nigeria moves to institutionalise landmark ACReSAL project

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — The Federal Government of Nigeria has charted a path to transform the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project from a time-bound initiative into a permanent pillar of national environmental policy.

    At a high-level meeting in Abuja, three cabinet ministers overseeing the project reached consensus on the need to sustain ACReSAL’s achievements in landscape restoration and community resilience beyond its current lifespan.

    A statement on Friday, signed by Jane Ozuruoke, for Director, Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Environment, quoted the Steering Committee Chairman and Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, as stressing that the “Knowledge Gain” from ACReSAL must serve as Nigeria’s permanent blueprint for environmental stability.

    Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, called for immediate institutionalisation through a strong federal component to oversee sustainability strategies. Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, emphasised the economic wisdom of federal investment at the grassroots level, noting its high impact and cost-effectiveness.

    The meeting also highlighted the World Bank’s ranking of ACReSAL as one of its best-performing projects in Nigeria, setting the stage for the forthcoming Mid-Term Review (MTR). The review will assess achievements against Project Development Objectives and refine strategies for ambitious land restoration targets.

    To bolster momentum, ministers discussed expanded collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), aiming to integrate climate-smart research into ACReSAL and equip farmers with resilience-building techniques.

    Recognising the project’s track record, ministers also explored additional financing to scale up restoration activities, reach more vulnerable communities and accelerate Nigeria’s climate resilience goals.

    The meeting concluded with a collective affirmation that ACReSAL has evolved into a national standard for multi-sectoral success. Plans for a permanent agency and expanded funding are expected to secure the sustainability of gains across Nigeria’s semi-arid landscapes.

    The MTR will be held in Kaduna with participation from ministers, commissioners, permanent secretaries, the World Bank and other stakeholders.

  • China accuses U.S. of nuclear ‘smears’, demands disarmament leadership

    China accuses U.S. of nuclear ‘smears’, demands disarmament leadership

    INTERNATIONAL (Agency Report) — 27 March 2026 — China’s Ministry of National Defence on Thursday rejected recent United States allegations of nuclear testing as “groundless smears” and urged Washington to honour its responsibilities on disarmament.

    Spokesperson Jiang Bin, responding to media questions, stressed that China maintains a strictly self-defensive nuclear strategy, adheres to a no-first-use policy, and pledges never to use or threaten nuclear weapons against non-nuclear states or nuclear-weapon-free zones. He said China’s nuclear capability remains at the minimum required for national security and that Beijing does not engage in an arms race.

    Jiang highlighted China’s active role in the review process of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons and its participation in meetings of the five recognised nuclear powers. He noted that Beijing continues dialogue on arms control with all parties.

    Turning his criticism on Washington, Jiang accused the U.S. of undermining global stability by withdrawing from treaties, investing heavily in upgrading its nuclear triad, developing the “Golden Dome” missile defence system, and deploying intermediate-range weapons in the Asia-Pacific. He also cited the lapse of the New START treaty, U.S. interest in resuming nuclear testing, and double standards in non-proliferation.

    “These measures have seriously weakened global strategic stability,” Jiang said. “As the country with the largest nuclear arsenal, the U.S. should earnestly fulfil its special and primary responsibility for nuclear disarmament, make substantial reductions in its arsenal, and create conditions for other nuclear-weapon states to participate in disarmament.” (Xinhua/NAN).

  • Media a key player in fight against corruption — Minister

    Media a key player in fight against corruption — Minister

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — 27 March 2026 — The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasised the media’s pivotal role in shaping public perception and encouraging citizen engagement in the fight against corruption.

    Speaking at a one-day workshop organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Abuja, Idris described the theme, “Re-invigorating the National Anti-corruption Strategy,” as timely and essential, calling for sustained media involvement and responsible journalism.

    Represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Ndace, the Minister noted that modern leadership demands strategic media engagement and highlighted the importance of media-government partnerships in promoting transparency.

    He commended the ICPC Chairman for enhancing institutional visibility through media collaboration.

    “In the 21st century, no modern leader can afford not to lead from the front, nor to lead without partnering with the media,” he said.

    He described journalists as loyal institutional allies whose commitment to professional excellence counters misinformation and strengthens national discourse. He also cautioned against the spread of fake news, urging journalists to uphold ethical standards in an age of unverified social media content.

    “We are in an age of noise, misinformation and disinformation. But professionals like those gathered here remain the buffers who ensure credible information prevails,” he said.

    Idris outlined the Ministry’s five-pillar communication agenda: restoring public trust, amplifying government policies, reorienting national values, modernising technology and fostering innovation in the media ecosystem.

    He encouraged journalists to continue partnering with government agencies, describing them as “the easiest people to relate with” and loyal when valued.

    ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu (SAN), in his welcome address, called for deeper collaboration between the media and anti-graft institutions. He described the media as a powerful force for accountability and transparency.

    Aliyu said the workshop builds on an earlier engagement held in October 2024 and praised the NUJ for its commitment to professionalism and truth.

    He noted the workshop was not merely a discussion forum but a strategic platform for generating practical ideas and strengthening cooperation ahead of the next phase of Nigeria’s National Anti-Corruption Strategy.

    “The media remains one of the most powerful instruments in the fight against corruption. As journalists, you are not merely observers — you are watchdogs, agenda-setters and catalysts for reform,” he said.

    “Your role in investigating and exposing corruption, amplifying citizens’ voices and holding public officials accountable is indispensable. Without a vibrant, responsible and ethical press, the anti-corruption fight risks losing one of its strongest pillars.”

    Senator Emmanuel Udende, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, in his goodwill message, underscored the media’s role in promoting transparency and public accountability. Represented by the Committee Clerk, Umenike Uboh, he described the media as the “Fourth Estate of the Realm” with the power to influence and mobilise society.

    He urged stakeholders to forge stronger alliances and develop actionable strategies to shift Nigeria’s narrative from scepticism to collective responsibility.

    Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Malam Ali Mohammad Ali, represented by his Special Assistant on Editorial Matters, Mr Ephraim Sheyin, said journalists are well-positioned to tackle corruption, given their constitutional role and history of investigative reporting.

    Ali highlighted challenges such as inadequate whistle-blower protections, threats to personal safety and limited access to information, urging journalists to navigate these hurdles in the anti-corruption crusade.

    Also speaking, the Director-General of VON pledged the agency’s continued collaboration with anti-corruption institutions to amplify messages promoting transparency and accountability both locally and internationally.

    Ndace reaffirmed VON’s role as a dependable ICPC partner and encouraged stakeholders to leverage the agency’s multilingual broadcasting capabilities and other publicly funded media platforms to promote accountability.

    The event brought together NUJ Council Chairmen and stakeholders from across the country. (NAN).

  • FG, Access Bank reaffirm commitment to women empowerment in creative economy

    FG, Access Bank reaffirm commitment to women empowerment in creative economy

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (Agency Report) — 27 March 2026 — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women as key drivers of the creative economy, focusing on access to finance, skills development and leadership opportunities.

    Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, stated this in Lagos at the International Women’s Day Conference organised by Access Bank Plc, which drew over 5,000 participants onsite and online.

    Represented by CBAAC Director-General Mrs Aisha Adamu, Musawa said women are increasingly leading in business, innovation and social change. She identified culture, capital and courage as critical factors, stressing that culture is both identity and an economic asset. She noted the ministry is repositioning culture through creative hubs, skills development and enterprise support targeting women in film, fashion, digital media and tourism. Women-owned businesses account for about 40 per cent of SMEs but face significant funding gaps.

    “Too many ideas remain small not because they lack potential, but because they lack access to capital,” she said, adding that government is working to unlock targeted funding, strengthen market access and promote women’s inclusion in leadership.

    Access Bank Chairman Mrs Ifeyinwa Osime urged deliberate investment in women as a catalyst for growth, stressing empowerment should be seen as a strategy, not charity. She noted women own 39 per cent of businesses and drive nearly 40 per cent of new enterprises, while SMEs contribute 48 per cent of GDP and over 80 per cent of jobs. Yet financing gaps persist, constraining productivity.

    “No economy can optimise its potential while underinvesting in half its population,” she said, highlighting Access Bank’s W Initiative and Womenpreneur Pitch-a-ton programme, which provides financing, training and healthcare support.

    Former Education Minister Dr Oby Ezekwesili stressed prioritising women’s inclusion, noting that societies transform when such issues are deliberately addressed. She said removing barriers could unlock vast potential, with agricultural output rising by up to 30 per cent if women had equal access to inputs. She commended Access Bank’s interventions and urged women to invest in knowledge, build partnerships and seek financing opportunities. In a one-on-one session, she emphasised shared values as “our internal currencies.”

    Mrs Nene Kunle-Ogunlusi, Group Head, Women Banking, Access Bank, said the bank remains committed to supporting women across all segments, citing a recent Women’s Day programme for market women in Oyingbo, Lagos, offering free health checks, beauty services and financial education.

    Stakeholders called for sustained collaboration between the government and the private sector to expand opportunities for women and drive inclusive growth. (NAN).

  • APC National Convention: Mohammed Idris outlines expectations for weekend

    APC National Convention: Mohammed Idris outlines expectations for weekend

    AFRICA (NPA) — 26 March 2026 — The Minister of Communications and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, briefed the media in Abuja today regarding the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention, scheduled to take place in Nigeria’s capital from Friday through Sunday at Eagle Square, Abuja.

    According to the minister, the APC—one of the largest political parties in the world—is preparing for its 8th National Convention, which will officially be held on Saturday. He described the event as a significant moment for the party and the country.

    Delegates from all 36 states of the federation, along with representatives from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), are expected to attend.

    Idris stated that the convention will serve as a platform for policy engagement and a formal transition to the newly elected party executives. He described it as a moment of reflection and consolidation for the APC.

    “The APC remains committed to unity in progress, consolidating the Renewed Hope agenda of the present administration,” Idris said. “It will be a concise statement of who we are, where we have come from, and where we are going—projecting continuity and clarity of purpose.”

    He added that from its inception, the APC has been a platform for reform, providing a compass to guide the party’s actions and decisions. The convention, he said, offers an opportunity to highlight the party’s achievements under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He added that the Renewed Hope agenda guides the party’s policy directions and deepens it’s commitment to ensuring that government and the people are in sync to maintain unity of purpose.