Diaspora Investment Summit Forges Path for Economic Growth and Global Partnerships

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By Maymunah A. Zubair

The 7th Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit (NDIS) 2024, themed “Adapting Stability through Diaspora Investment: Navigating the Path to Prosperity” gathered Nigerians at home and abroad for a hybrid three-day event in Abuja and online. Spearheaded by NIDCOM’s MD/CEO, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the summit fostered key investment dialogues and brought together high-profile dignitaries, including representative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, who delivered the keynote address, alongside prominent legislators and industry leaders.

In her opening remarks, Dabiri-Erewa highlighted the pivotal role of the diaspora in Nigeria’s development. “Our diaspora remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s potential for growth, and this summit underscores their role as transformative agents,” she said. Her message set a hopeful tone for the discussions and networking that followed, covering a broad range of sectors, from tech and agribusiness to healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, and the creative industry.

In his keynote, the SGF Senator George Akume emphasized the government’s commitment to an enabling investment climate, stating, “Nigeria’s potential is vast, and with the expertise and investments from our diaspora, we can fuel sustainable development.”

Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora Affairs, also addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of sustainable investments. “Our diaspora community is essential to Nigeria’s future. Their resilience and innovation are key to driving sustainable economic growth,” he remarked. Echoing similar sentiments, Honorable Tochukwu Okere, Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs, added, “Platforms like NDIS are essential in creating the bridge between Nigeria and our global diaspora community. The connections and investments made here can fundamentally transform our economy.”

Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, Director of Trade and Investment at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, further encouraged participants to explore available government resources, especially the Global Business Match platform. “This platform provides a unique opportunity for Nigerian businesses and global investors to connect, collaborate, and create lasting economic impact,” he stated.

The Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA), co-organizers of the event, also voiced support through Ambassador Rabiu Dagari, represented by Okeoghenemaro Sefia, who noted, “This summit represents a collective effort to drive Nigeria forward, fostering partnerships that extend across borders.”

The event culminated in a gala night and awards ceremony, celebrating innovative pitches and outstanding contributions from diaspora entrepreneurs. Many deals were closed, and new partnerships formed, underscoring the potential of the Nigerian diaspora to drive substantial economic progress and establish Nigeria as a thriving business hub on the global stage. Diaspora Investment Summit Forges Path for Economic Growth and Global Partnerships

FOLLOW THE PATH OF GOVERNOR ODODO’S PROGRESSIVE LEADERSHIP – ENGR OHIEKU CONGRATULATES ALL LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTED OFFICIALS.

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Engr Ohieku Muhammad Abdulsalam, the leader and coordinator of the Ododo Mandate Steering Committee, is thrilled about the party’s landslide victory in the local government elections held across Kogi State’s 21 areas. He praises the citizens for their overwhelming support, seeing it as a testament to Governor Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman’s impressive performance and progressive governance. Ohieku notes that the people have shown they’re aligned with the governor’s vision and ready to continue supporting the party.

Ohieku reassures Kogites of Governor Ododo’s continued efforts to deliver democracy’s dividends and improve their well-being. He urged them to sustain the support with the administration of governor Ododo for the state’s future growth and progress.

He congratulated His Excellency governor Alhaji Ododo Ahmed Usman, his wife Hajia Sefinat Ododo Ahmed Usman on the state’s electoral development. Ohieku also felicitates with all the elected local government officials, including chairmen, vice chairpersons, and ward councilors, urging them to be magnanimous in victory and follow Governor Ododo’s progressive leadership. Ohieku emphasizes the importance of humility, accessibility and responsiveness to grassroots citizens’ needs, as exemplified by the governor.

Ohieku reiterated governor Ododo’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and good governance has been evident since he took office. He said his focus on infrastructure development, healthcare, education, security, and human capital development has been impressive, asserting the governor’s vision for Kogi State is built on a foundation of inclusivity, where every individual feels valued and included. Ohieku further said the governor has received praise from various quarters for his efforts to transform Kogi State, hoping with his continued dedication to the people, Governor Ododo is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the state.

Ohieku wished them successful tenure and prayed fervently to invoke Allah’s blessings, wisdom and guidance on the governor’s administration.

Signed:
OHIEKU MEDIA TEAM
October 19, 2024.

HAJIA HASSIAT CONGRATULATES HON. AMOKA ON HIS LG VICTORY*

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Sunday, October 20, 2024
Ihima, Okehi LGA.

In the aftermath of the highly contested Local Government polls, Hajia Hassiat Suleiman has extended her heartfelt congratulations to Hon. Monday Amoka, who emerged victorious as the Chairman-Elect for Okehi Local Government Area.

While speaking with the press Hajia Hassiat said that Honourable Amoka’s victory marks a significant milestone in his political journey and at the same time, a poignant victory for the people of Okehi Local Government Area.

“Honourable Monday Amoka popularly known as Odu is well loved by his people and there is no doubt in my mind that he will receive the fullest support while discharging his duties as Chairman”

As Hon. Amoka prepares to assume his new role, his victory is seen as a testament to his dedication to the community. With the full backing of his constituents, he is poised to drive meaningful change and progress in Okehi Local Government Area.

“we are thankful to his Excellency, Governor Ahmed-Usman Ododo who made this possible. This is a win for democracy and a positive statement to keen observers that Kogi State under His Excellency’s leadership can conduct free and fair elections” Hajia Hassiat concluded with.

*Enesi Yakubu*
_Media Aide_

PARTNERSHIP WITH JICA HAS PUT NIGERIA’S STARTUP ECOSYSTEM IN GLOBAL MAP -DG NITDA

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The Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, CCIE has disclosed that the Agency’s partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has put Nigeria’s Startup ecosystem on the global map.

He made this statement during a meeting with JICA President, Dr. Akihiko Tanaka when he visited the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in Abuja, a Special Purpose Vehicle office established by NITDA.

While highlighting the impact of the Agency’s partnership with JICA Inuwa, stated that “Through this collaboration, we have sponsored Nigerian startups to participate in tech exhibitions and conferences across Africa and the Middle East. Additionally, we’ve connected them with Japanese corporations, such as Mitsubishi, resulting in Training for 112 startup founders from 56 companies and creation of over 300 direct jobs in Nigeria

He said, “Established in 2001, NITDA’s mandate is to implement the national IT policy. At inception, less than 500,000 Nigerians had access to computers. Today, we have made significant progress in bridging the digital divide.” He noted that there is significant growth in Nigeria’s ICT sector, from less than 0.5 per cent to over 16 per cent of GDP, with 120 million citizens now having computer access.

Inuwa, citing the World Bank research predicting a global talent deficit of 85 million by 2030, potentially leading to $8.5 trillion in lost annual value, he, however, suggested that to bridge this looming gap, “A strategic talent pipeline between Nigeria and Japan can leverage Nigeria’s youthful population to address Japan’s aging workforce challenges, creating a symbiotic partnership.”

He noted that NITDA has articulated its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0). Outlining the eight key pillars to drive Nigeria’s digital transformation, the NITDA boss emphasised that while Fostering Digital Literacy and Cultivating, which will drive the development of a skilled workforce to drive Nigeria’s digital economy, Building of a Robust Technology Research Ecosystem will encourage innovation and R&D in emerging technologies.

The NITDA boss said, “The Agency also plans to strengthen policy implementation and legal framework, promoting inclusive access to digital infrastructure and services, strengthen cybersecurity, enhance digital trust and nurture an innovative and entrepreneurial ecosystem and build a strategic partnership and collaboration.

He added that the Agency will focus on internal transformation and reforms so the agency can be more agile and have an environment that is psychologically safe for everyone to contribute.

“Internally, NITDA is undergoing transformational reforms to enhance agility and foster a psychologically safe work environment, encouraging active contribution from all stakeholders.”

In his remarks, Dr. Tanaka praised NITDA’s dedication, stating that partnering with NITDA was a wise decision due to its vital role in global development. He emphasised that co-creation is JICA’s guiding principle, adding that the approach aligns with JICA’s mission to collaborate with organisations like NITDA to drive growth and address global challenges.

“Co-creation is the overarching principle guiding our activities, especially in harnessing information technology to drive sustainable development. Additionally, JICA acknowledges Nigeria’s proactive strides in advancing information technology and Artificial Intelligence, and we are committed to collaborating on these endeavours,” he noted.

While stressing that the strategic application of these technologies will foster a surge in startup creation among young entrepreneurs in Nigeria, he advocated for harnessing the creative potential of young engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions that enhance societal well-being.

ACHIEVING UN DECADE OF ACTION 2021-2030: VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA SET TO INAUGURATE NATIONAL ROAD SAFETY ADVISORY COUNCIL

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Propelled by the necessity of achieving the vision of United Nations Decade of Action on Road Safety 2021-2030, which emphasises on zero tolerance to road traffic fatalities, the Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima has concluded all arrangements to inaugurate the National Road Safety Advisory Council (NARSAC).

The Vice President, who chairs the National Road Safety Advisory Council, called for an urgent action against road traffic crashes and highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and enforcing discipline to improve road safety in Nigeria.

He directed the immediate inauguration of the Advisory Council emphasize the need for a more robust and result oriented collective action on road safety.

The directive which is aimed at addressing Nigeria’s road safety challenges and drastically reducing traffic crashes on the roads was given on Friday, during a meeting with the Management of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) led by Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Speaking during the meeting with the FRSC Corps Marshal, the VP stressed the urgent need to address the increasing road crashes on the highways and in the cities caused by non-adherence to traffic regulations.

“We need a comprehensive solution for our road safety challenges. The whole ecosystem is not as it should be,” VP Shettima stated, emphasizing the need for “deliberate efforts toward addressing our road challenges,” in line with international best practices in countries like Dubai and the UK.

Speaking on behalf of the Corps, the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, said the National Road Safety Advisory Council is a critical catalyst in the speedy realisation of the vision of the Nigeria Road Safety Strategy II document which is to cover the period between 2021-2030.

“The idea is to reduce road traffic crashes by 50% between now and 2030,” he said.

He outlined the council’s primary functions to include setting national road safety targets, coordinating efforts between federal, state and local governments, and overseeing the implementation of strategic initiatives.

You would recall that the council’s membership includes six Governors representing the six geo-political zones, various Federal Ministers, the National Security Adviser, and the President of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON).

Olusegun Ogungbemide, mni, FISPON, anipr
Assistant Corps Marshal
Corps Public Education Officer
FRSC Headquarters
Abuja.

4 October, 2024.

NDPC EXTENDS THE DEADLINE FOR THE REGISTRATION OF DCPMIS, RESTRICTS DCPMIs FROM ENGAGING UNREGISTERED DATA PROCESSORS

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PRESS RELEASE

Nigeria Data Protection Commission National Commissioner/CEO, Dr. Vincent Olatunji has approved the extension of deadline for the registration of Data Controllers and Data Processors of Major Importance (DCPMIs). The new deadline for registration without penalty is the 31st of October, 2024.
In order to ensure accountability and in line with sections 24(3), 29(1)(a) and 44 of the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2024 (NDP Act), DCPMIs shall only engage agents and contractors who are duly registered with the Commission (as at 15th October, 2024) for the processing of personal data. For ease of reference, section 29(1)(a) of the NDP Act provides:
Where a data controller engages the services of a data processor, or a data processor engages the services of another data processor, the data controller or data processor engaging another shall ensure that the engaged data processor —
(a) complies with the principles and obligations set out in this Act as applicable to the data controller;
Furthermore, Section 65 of the NDP Act defines a data processor “as an individual, private entity, public authority, or any other body, who processes personal data on behalf of or at the direction of a data controller or another data processor.”
The Commission enjoins data controllers and data processors of major importance to immediately ensure that those who process personal data on their behalf fulfill the obligation to register as required by law. Engaging an agent or contractor who does not comply with the principles and obligations (set out in the NDP Act) that are applicable to the data controller is a contravention of the NDP Act.

Signed
Babatunde Bamigboye, Esq
Head, Legal, Enforcement & Regulations

64TH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION: SUSTAIN POSITIVITY AND AVOID NEGATIVE DRIVING IDEALS- SHEHU MOHAMMED URGES MOTORISTS

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In line with efforts put in place to ensure free flow of traffic and the safety of lives and properties of road users, during the 64th Independence Day celebration; the Federal Road Safety Corps has urged Nigerians to embrace safety ideals, sustain positive driving behaviour, avoid negative ones, and adhere to all traffic rules and regulations.

The Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed who made the call also stressed on the necessity of having a crash free celebration. According to him, the Federal Road Safety Corps is aware of how much the country cherishes its independence going by the series of festivities that form part of the celebration, and warmly aligns in totality with the entire citizens in this historic moment.

He admonished motorists to apply all cautionary measures so as to achieve a crash free Independence celebration. And also gave the assurance of full deployment of operational facilities across traffic prone areas and others to ensure a hitch free movement of persons and goods.

According to him, ” To forestall all incidences of mishap on the road, I have directed Commanding Officers across the country to ensure full deployment of personnel and logistics for high visibility and to ensure prompt removal of obstructions and effective traffic management”

While wishing the entire country a peaceful and safe celebration, the Corps Marshal called on the motoring public to utilize the FRSC Toll free numbers 122 and the FRSC Mobile App to put calls through in the event of any crash, obstruction or emergency for prompt response.

Olusegun Ogungbemide mni, FISPON, anipr
Assistant Corps Marshal
Corps Public Education Officer
FRSC Headquarters
Abuja.

1 October, 2024.

EDUN OUTLINES KEY REFORMS FOR NIGERIA’S ECONOMIC REVIVAL

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PRESS RELEASE


The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun has outlined key reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration to stabilize the nation’s economy, reduce poverty, and foster sustainable development.

The Minister disclosed this in his keynote address at Access Bank’s Corporate Customer Forum 2024, held at Eko Hotels in Lagos, Thursday.

The event, themed: *Nigeria’s Economic Rebirth: Hopes and Implications,* brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss the country’s growth prospects.

HM Edun reported encouraging signs of economic progress, including improvements in GDP growth, stabilized exchange rates, and increased government revenue.

He however,  acknowledged ongoing challenges, such as inflation and foreign exchange pressures, assuring  that initiatives like the Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Program (ASAP), among others, are being implemented to address these issues.

The Minister also detailed plans to boost agricultural production, including a program to support 360,000 farmers, aiming for a yield of 1.4 million metric tons of key crops.

Emphasizing the government’s medium-term priorities, HM Edun called for greater private sector involvement and underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in key sectors like mining, power, and agriculture in order to further enhance the economy for the future of our nation

The forum also highlighted Access Bank’s sustainability initiatives, including its commitment to green projects as well as recent expansion into Kenya.

He commended Access Bank for facilitating crucial discussions on leveraging technology, adopting sustainable practices, and promoting inclusivity to drive Nigeria’s economic progress.

The Minister’s Emphasis on leveraging technology, adopting sustainable practices, and promoting inclusivity will be crucial in driving Nigeria’s economic progress. It will also maximize resources, provide opportunities for job creation, and ultimately pave the way for Nigeria’s economic transformation.

His keynote address at the Access Bank Forum 2024 underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria. With groundbreaking reforms already underway and a strategic focus on private sector involvement, Nigeria is poised for economic rebirth.

This renewed emphasis on collaboration and private investment is expected to drive economic progress, create jobs, and reduce poverty – a vision that aligns with the federal government’s shift towards leveraging domestic resources and internal revenue generation

Signed
Mohammed Manga, *FCAI*
Director, Information and Public Relations
September 20, 2024

PRESIDENCY AWARDS FRSC AS THE OVERALL BEST IN WEBSITE PERFORMANCE AND RANKING OUT OF 315 MDAs

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The Bureau of Public Service Reforms, a Federal Government agency under the Presidency has awarded the Federal Road Safety Corps as the overall best in Website performance and ranking for 2023-2024 evaluation period.

FRSC’s Website was selected as the best following a very meticulous highly diligent and extremely objective review of the Websites of 315 agencies which were subjected to evaluation for the period under consideration.

The 2023-2024 Federal Government Scorecard for ranking Websites of Ministries, Departments and Agencies is an essential benchmark for evaluating the current state of government websites in Nigeria.

Justifying the relevance of the ranking, the organisers revealed that the effectiveness and functionality of government websites have become a critical component of Nigeria’s public service reform agenda as the nation increasingly adopts digital platforms as the primary means of communication, service delivery and information dissemination.

Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed who received the award in person commended the transparency that heralded the entire screening process and pledged the Corps’ commitment to maintaining quality on all fronts.

He also appreciated the General public for believing in the ability of the Corps to deliver on its mandate, stating that it is a call for greater performance.

Signed:

Olusegun Ogungbemide, mni, FISPON, anipr
Corps Commander
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja.

20 September, 2024.

EDO ELECTIONS: CORPS MARSHAL DIRECTS ADEQUATE DEPLOYMENT OF PERSONNEL, ORDERS FRIENDLY COLLABORATION WITH SECURITY AGENCIES TO ENFORCE COMPLIANCE ON RESTRICTION OF VEHICULAR MOVEMENT

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As part of efforts put in place to ensure smooth conduct of the forthcoming Edo State Gubernatorial elections scheduled by the electoral umpire to hold in 21 September, 2024 the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed, has ordered Operatives of the Corps to collaborate with other security agencies to enforce compliance on restrictions of vehicular movement.

The directive issued by the Corps Marshal also mandated the Personnel to clear obstructions from the roads, carry out rescue operations in case of emergencies, and maintain orderliness in polling booths.

In the same vein, adequate mobilisation has also been made for operational tools including deployment of vehicles, tow trucks, as well as ambulances to strengthen enforcement of restrictions during the entire process of the election.

He warned the personnel deployed to play active role in the democratic exercise. While emphasising on the need to exhibit the highest sense of professionalism, the Corps Marshal also admonished them to avoid any act that could lead to abuse of the rights of electorates.

While reading out the marching order to the personnel, the Corps Marshal wished electorates a peaceful, free and fair elections.

Signed:

Olusegun Ogungbemide, mni, FISPON, anipr
Corps Commander
Corps Public Education Officer
Federal Road Safety Corps
Headquarters, Abuja

20 September, 2024.

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