Day: September 17, 2024

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated commitment to empowering consumers through enhanced standardisation practices, and ensuring access to safe and quality goods and services.

Dr Doris Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, who made the commitment, commended the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) for its tireless efforts in consumer protection at the African Day of Standardisation celebration in Abuja on Tuesday,

Anite, represented by Permanent Secretary Amb. Nura Rimi, emphasised the significance of adopting and enforcing standards to safeguard consumer rights across Africa.

‘As we mark the 11th day of standardising, let us reaffirm our commitment to empowering consumers through effective standardisation strategies and foster a culture of quality consciousness.

‘Africa, the world’s fastest-growing consumer market, is projected to see its consumer base rise from 1.2 billion to 1.7 billion by 2030, with consumer expenditure expected to grow from 1.4 trillion dollars in 2015 to
2.5 trillion dollars by 2030.

‘However, the continent faces challenges such as misleading advertisements, unsafe products, and inadequate information, impacting consumer safety and confidence,’ she stated.

She explained that the Nigerian government had implemented policies and programmes to establish an enabling environment for consumers, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s global agenda.

‘These initiatives have streamlined bureaucratic processes, eliminated bottlenecks, and improved consumer welfare and awareness.

According to Anite, standardisation plays a vital role in ensuring products and services meet international quality benchmarks, fostering consumer trust, and promoting market access.

‘It also drives innovation by providing frameworks for advanced technologies and best practices.’

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SON’s Director-General, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for consumers,
promoting their rights to safe quality goods and services through standardisation.

‘Nigeria remains a major player in commerce and trade across the African continent, providing the much-needed standardisation platform for manufacturers and consumers alike.

‘By working together, Nigeria can mitigate the adverse effects of trade imbalances and ensure consumers have access to quality goods and services,’ Okeke stated.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event attended by heads of government parastatals, agencies, and stakeholders, underscored the importance of collaboration in maintaining standardisation in the country.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The National Hydro-electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) will conduct a community mapping and need Assessment of 6,246 communities under its jurisdiction.

Alhaji Abubakar Yelwa, Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, disclosed this on Tuesday at a training of officers for the 2024 Needs Assessment exercise of the commission in Abuja.

Yelwa said that the outcome of the training would provide the commission with a clear roadmap for interventions and alignment with the needs of beneficiary communities.

The Managing Director was represented by Mr Jimoh Gabi, Director of Finance and Administration of the commission.

The N-HYPPADEC activities covers 10 states of Benue, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Gombe and Taraba.

The Commission was established to conceive, plan and implement, in accordance with set rules, projects and programmes for the development of hydroelectric power producing areas.

It is also mandated to prepare schemes designed to promote the physical
developments of hydroelectric power producing areas and estimate the cost of implementing such schemes.

Yelwa said that the commission would continue to discharge it functions to its beneficiary communities in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu administration.

‘The 2024 Needs Assessment Exercise is beyond data collection as it is intended to serve as the compass of the Commission for the future. It will guide our projects, programmes and policies.

‘Through your diligent work, we will be able to gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities within each of the communities under the jurisdiction of the Commission.

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‘The objective of the exercise you are about to embark on is clear – to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment and community mapping exercise covering at least 6,246 communities.

‘This ambitious goal will help us develop a robust database that captures critical information on population, infrastructure and s
ocio-economic indicators. Your findings will directly inform our efforts to prioritize projects, enhance operational efficiency and promote socio-economic development in the affected areas.

‘Your attention to detail, your commitment to accuracy and your ability to engage respectfully with community members are of paramount importance.

‘The skills and knowledge you acquire here will not only serve you in the field but will contribute to the overall success of our mission,’ Yelwa said.

Dr Mahmud Muhammad, Chairman of the implementation Committee of the 2024 exercise, said that modern techniques would be used in the 2024 round of the exercise.

He said this was in order to have more accurate and efficient data that would be used in assessing the needs of beneficiary communities.

‘In this phase, we are also going to add application of celestial technique, space technique; that is remote sensing and Geographic Information technique so that at the end of the day we will see results from the two techniques.

‘We
will translate whatever we are doing now to research, not just doing the project and keeping reports. This is an improvement on the 2021 exercise and this will be accessible in all our HYPPADEC states offices,’ Muhammad said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Climate change issue is now at the centre of global politics. In the last decades, it has shaped public discourses as global leaders strive to chisel out policies that would birth a sustainable climate.

Nigeria, like many countries, has many policies on climate change, which are geared toward mitigating its impacts on humanity and the ecosystem respectively.

This is in addition to the Climate Change Act which was sponsored by then Rep. Sam Onuigbo and signed into law by former president, Muhammadu Buhari.

The law serves as Nigeria’s legal blueprint for a sustainable climate.

The initiative for the conversion of vehicles to Compressed Natural Gas engines is another Federal Government effort to promote a pollution-free environment.

However, in spite of these efforts, Africa’s largest economy is still facing huge climate problems.

This is largely due to inadequate political will to fully implement its policies and climate-friendly initiatives.

Sadly, the failure to effectively implement climate policies
has worsened Nigeria’s ranking among countries that are seriously taking climate action.

Nigeria placed Nigeria 158 out of 182 countries on climate vulnerability as of 2023, according to the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative Index.

Analysts say fighting climate change goes beyond talking and formulation of policies. They say it needs shared commitment from the leaders, citizens and right budgetary provisions for sustainable implementation.

They said that Nigeria had a fair share of environmental and ecological challenges like flooding, erratic rainfall patterns, erosion, heat waves, air pollution, poor energy, and deforestation that left visible scars on its citizenry.

They alleged that some political leaders in the past had treated climate change issues with levity as ecological funds set aside by governments toward addressing environmental and climate emergencies are often misappropriated.

Climate Analysts attribute the lack of political will to effectively implement climate policies and action p
lans to the failure of electorates over the years to use their voting powers to elect climate-friendly politicians.

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They further say there is the need for registered voters in Nigeria to realign themselves toward voting for climate if they want to achieve a sustainable environment.

In light of this, they argue that to hold political leaders accountable for their climate inactions, voters should change the narrative by giving their mandates to candidates with climate-friendly dispositions.

Dr David Michael, Executive Director, Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation, said voting for climate matters, especially in Nigeria where the political will for climate actions is conspicuously lacking.

He described climate change as a global issue impacting the globe, socio-economic, food security and security, noting that it directly links to social issues currently ravaging Nigeria.

He said that climate change was already impacti
ng food security in the country and making the citizenry vulnerable due to delayed rainfall and long dry spells.

‘Voting for climate change matters because when you vote for climate and environmental friendly politicians they will come out with the right policies.

‘They will come with the right budgetary provisions to ensure that we build climate resilience in Nigeria.

‘This will enable us to overcome some of the impacts of climate change and some of the social and economic impacts of climate change we are facing today.

‘When you vote a climate denial into office the chances are that he will be silent about climate change. And you can imagine the impacts that we already experienced,’ he emphasised.

He stressed the need for states to domesticate climate change policies of the federal government and work toward their implementation.

‘Fighting climate change is not by talking, is not just having policies, it requires resources – right budgetary provisions and implementation.

‘The hunger protest that ended
not long ago, although a lot of people will read political meaning to it, if there was no hunger there would be no basis for people to take political advantage of the situation.

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‘So, we need those politicians who will help guide the light for the nation to build climate resilience and we can only achieve that when we vote for the right candidates,’ he said.

As Edo and Ondo governorship elections approach, he enjoined the registered voters to do themselves good by voting for those candidates who would come out publicly to declare and state their climate action plans.

‘Climate change is impacting Edo and Ondo states greatly, both states witness floods annually.

‘Climate change will impact democracy that clearly shows when the INEC office in Edo State was flooded earlier this year and a lot of election materials were destroyed.

‘In Ondo state, the Aiyetoro community is experiencing sea level rise; the community has lost a large chunk of it
s lands to water. The people of Ondo must and should demand climate action by voting for the right candidate.

‘Voters should demand climate action plans when going around for campaigning because it is an issue that directly impacts their lives and livelihoods, they have the power to speak with their vote and they should vote right,’ he advised.

Dr Mohammed Kabiru Dahiru, Senior Lecturer, Federal University, Lafia, posited that climate change was the bane of environmental sustainability, adding that without addressing it no meaningful development could be achieved.

Dahiru, a climate change expert, who is also the acting Head of Geography Department said climate change had far-reaching implications for the survival and well-being of humanity.

He said it was appropriate to vote for politicians who were conscious of climate change challenges.

According to him, this will ensure they provide opportunities to contribute either through legislation or policy implementation towards reducing its impacts on citizens
.

He emphasised the need to educate the public and encourage them to vote for the candidates who have interest and good intentions toward climate action.

‘Climate change is human-induced to a large extent. Since it is a human-induced problem it needs humans to work towards ensuring that the problem is alleviated,’ he said.

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Envoh Okolo, Coordinator, Nasarawa State Network on Environment Climate Justice, says voting for climate is long overdue in Nigeria, considering the level of climate change impacts on the environment and its socio-economic effects on livelihoods.

He said Nigerians were facing food shortages due to the impacts of climate change as manifested in long dry spells, flooding and environmental degradation.

‘The reason is because of the lack of political will to implement policies and action plans to mitigate the impact of climate change; this is evident in inflation and hunger being experienced in several states,’ he
said.

Okolo advised the Edo and Ondo electorate to scrutinise candidates’ manifestos before deciding whom to vote for in their upcoming elections.

‘Climate change has not affected voting patterns in Nigeria therefore it is high time the citizens began to have the consciousness toward voting for climate,’ he said.

Mr Jonathan Joshua, a climate change advocate and National President, Association of Small Scale Agro Producers in Nigeria (ASSAPIN) said climate change being a global phenomenon had enormously impacted both agriculture and security.

He said voting for climate-friendly politicians would amount to voting for environmental sustainability, food security and commitment to bringing interventions toward reducing its impacts.

Joshua enjoined the voters in Nigeria, particularly in Edo and Ondo to take decisive actions by voting for candidates that would implement climate change policies.

‘If they must be voted for they must have plans for interventions in line with climate policies; that will help the
farmers and the vulnerable communities to deal with climate change.

‘So the voters must take a decisive decision; any candidate that is not going to implement climate change policies in their administration should not be given a chance to be voted for,’ he advised.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

President Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to building a robust Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) that enabled access to services for all Nigerians.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Federation, George Akume, on Monday in Abuja at the 6th National Identity Day, emphasised the critical role of digital identity in national development.

The event organised by National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) is themed, ‘Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) – Enabling Access to Services’.

He stated that DPI was the backbone that enabled access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and financial inclusion.

‘In today’s digital age, the ability to prove one’s identity is not merely a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental cornerstone of our socioeconomic progress.

‘Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is the backbone that enables access to essential services, including healthcare, education, financial inclusion, and social welfare.

‘It is through robust DPI that
we can ensure every Nigerian, regardless of their background or location has the opportunity to participate fully in our nation’s growth and development.’

Tinubu highlighted the importance of efficient digital identity systems in streamlining service delivery and ensuring government programmes reached those who need them most.

‘The ‘Renewed Hope’ initiative represents our commitment to fostering sustainable development and enhancing the living standards of all Nigerians.

‘Digital identity is a vital enabler of this vision, as it empowers individuals, facilitates economic transactions, and enhances transparency and accountability in governance.

‘Harnessing a robust digital identity system, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.’

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The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, emphasised the importance of getting identity right to protect citizens and provide basic amenities.

‘If you fail to ac
curately identify individuals, you cannot protect those you do not know.

‘That is the reality. You cannot provide for those you do not know, and to do so, you must establish accurate identities.

‘You must get the Evidence of Identity (EOI) right. Identity forms the foundation, the genesis, and the starting point for development.’

The Director General of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, highlighted the significance of DPI in facilitating access to public and private services and driving economic development.

‘The role of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has become vital to Nigeria’s economic development, providing a framework that connects citizens to essential services, including social welfare, healthcare, education, and financial inclusion.

‘Leading this transformation is the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), responsible for the National Identification Number (NIN), which has successfully enrolled more than 110 million Nigerians.

‘This achievement presents a unique opportunity for integra
ting the remaining two pillars of DPI – data exchange and payment – with foundational identity, facilitating effective development and adoption.’

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria Shri Balasubramanian says more than 27,500 Nigerian professionals have been trained across various sectors in 45 years under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC).

Balasubramanian stated this during the 2024 ITEC Day reception at the High Commission of India in Abuja.

The high commissioner identified ITEC as a dedicated platform established by India’s Ministry of External Affairs for capacity building.

‘More than 200,000 officials from no fewer than than 160 countries have benefited from this initiative, encompassing both civilian and defense sectors with no charges incurred.

‘India extends over 22,500 scholarships annually to individuals worldwide, fostering collaboration and skill enhancement,’ he said.

Balasubramanian added that cooperation between the two countries began in 1979 following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Budget and National Planning representing Nigeria.

He also emphasised the significance of the pr
ogramme which has seen around 500 Nigerians receiving training in India annually since 1979.

‘Notably, diverse courses including specialised ones are offered under this programme.

‘For instance, a specialised course catering to 28 law enforcement officers from Nigeria was conducted earlier this year, along with ongoing programmes in digital health, space exploration, and other pertinent areas,’ he said.

Balasubramanian also encouraged Nigerians to leverage this opportunity for professional growth and subsequent contribution to their nation’s progress, emphasising the value of skill development and knowledge exchange.

Amb. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed appreciation towards India’s commitment to enhancing Nigerians’ skills through such initiatives.

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Ahmed, represented by Amb. Misitura Mohammed, Director of Asia and Pacific, Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out how the ITEC Programme has empowered
Nigerians across various sectors, playing a crucial role in bolstering Nigeria’s development, particularly in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

He stated that the partnership signifies an example of robust South-South cooperation, showcasing India’s unwavering support in driving Nigeria’s growth.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Young Innovators of Nigeria (YIN) has emphasised the potential of innovative technology in enhancing national revenue generation systems, curbing oil theft, and improving cybersecurity.

YIN’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Andrew Abu, made this statement in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, highlighting activities marking the organisation’s 10-year anniversary.

Abu said the anniversary, scheduled for 16-17 October, would coincide with the second edition of YIN’s Technology Ecosystem Dialogue Series (TEDS).

According to Abu, the event aims to bring together stakeholders from industry, academia, and public institutions to explore ways to advance Nigeria’s digital landscape and foster future innovations.

‘This event aligns with national priorities and global best practices, integrating innovative technological solutions into Nigeria’s revenue management framework to promote sustainable economic development, fiscal governance, and stability.

‘TEDS 2024 will focus on incorporating
innovative technologies into Nigeria’s revenue systems, addressing digital transformation in revenue collection, combating oil theft, and enhancing cybersecurity.’

He said other anniversary activities include a hackathon, the Heroes of the Tech Republics award, and recognition of individuals from public service, innovators, and investors who have contributed to Nigeria’s IT ecosystem growth.

According to him, Gov. Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State will be honoured for digitising the state’s civil service, investing in digital literacy, and ICT certifications for staff, resulting in increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and enhanced e-governance.

He said other awardees include Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister for Communications Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr Olatunji Vincent, National Commissioner, Nigeria Data Protection Commission.

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Abu encouraged innovators to participate in the hackathon, developing solutions for clean energy an
d climate change, with a submission deadline of 30 September.

‘The best three products from the hackathon will be showcased at TEDS, where industry partners can select products for funding or sponsorship/co-ownership.’

‘Interested innovators can apply via https://yinigeria.com.ng/hackathon/.

‘YIN will also unveil Tech Republic, a comprehensive book documenting Nigeria’s technological advancements over the past decade, providing a roadmap for the future of tech in Nigeria and Africa.

‘Topics to be discussed at the event include Digital Transformation in Revenue Collection, Data Analytics and Revenue Leakages, and Leveraging Technology to Combat Oil Theft.

‘The programme is being hosted in collaboration with the Network of Incubators and Innovators in Nigeria, under the theme ‘Securing Nigeria’s Revenue Streams: The Power of Technology’.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria