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Nigeria Reiterates Commitment To Strengthening Diplomatic Relations With Russia

Published

9 months ago

March 7, 2024

By Gloria Ikibah

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with Russia.

Naijablitznews.com reports that Nigeria and Russia have enjoyed cordial bilateral relations since establishing diplomatic ties on December 25, 1960.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Special Assistant to the Minister on Media and Communications Strategy, Al-kasim Abdulkadir, and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Abuja.

Ambassador Tuggar stated this during his working visit to Russia where he met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr. Sergey Lavrov

He re-emphasize Nigeria’s support for a peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict as both countries are significant exporters of grains worldwide.

While pointing out that the conflict affects Russia’s ability to sell its grains to Africa, Amb. Tuggar also noted that the Joint Commission between Nigeria and Russia was established to provide a framework for the implementation of the concluded bilateral agreements and has since its inception, held four sessions in 2014 (Moscow), 2006 (Abuja), 2009 (Moscow) and 2016 (Abuja).

The Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister said it was Russia’s turn to host the next session, even as he expressed Nigeria’s determination to conclude all outstanding bilateral agreements and a framework to deepened economic, cultural, and political ties for the mutual benefit of the parties.

He said Nigeria and Russia supported each other in their quests for elective positions in the United Nations specialized agencies and other international engagements, adding that the importance Nigeria attaches to its relationship as an important ally and a strategic partner, speaks volume especially in the fight against terrorism.

The Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister, however, appreciated the Russian Federation’s immense support and solidarity to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led administration especially Russia’s commitment towards facilitating the continued financing and execution of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited as well as the resuscitation of the Aluminium Smelting Company in Nigeria by AC Rusal.

Ambassador Tuggar further said Nigeria and Russia had agreed to cooperate in building nuclear power plants in Nigeria and that the Russia State Atomic Energy Corporation (ROSATOM) had signed the first Intergovernmental Agreement to cooperate in developing atomic energy for peaceful purposes in 2009.

The Minister pointed out that Nigeria is interested in partnering with Russia on renewable energy, particularly on the peaceful use of nuclear power.

Also highlighting the longstanding military and defence cooperation between Russia and Nigeria, the Minister appreciated the Russian Government’s support and assistance in intelligence sharing, which has aided the fight against terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria.

He added that military ties between Russia and Nigeria dated back to the Soviet era, but however, appreciated the support received during the Nigerian Civil War between 1967 and 1970.

He concluded by applauding Russia’s cooperation in education through its scholarships to Nigerian students over the years, which he said had greatly benefitted not only Nigeria but humanity.

News

HoR to Lead March, Launch Initiatives Against Gender-Based Violence

Published

3 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the House of Representatives is set to lead a historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024, in a bold effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.

The march, which begins at 8:00 AM, will see over 1,000 participants, including lawmakers and members of the public walk from the National Assembly to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The event will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action against GBV and greater protection for vulnerable groups.

Speaking about the initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., GCON, said, “This march and the activities that follow are not mere gestures but a reflection of our determination to confront gender-based violence head-on. We are committed to building a society where justice, equality, and safety prevail for all Nigerians.”

In a statement by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi on Saturday in Abuja, he said, “The 10th House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms, collaboration, and accountability in the fight against gender-based violence.

“In addition to the march, the House has outlined key activities in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027) to sustain awareness and action throughout the campaign period.

“Sash Demonstration Ceremony – Tuesday, November 26, 2024

“Convergence of State Assembly Speakers – Monday, December 9, 2024. A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative measures for combating GBV nationwide.

“National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 – Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The summit will focus on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives led by the House of Representatives”.

Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanise nationwide efforts and inspire collective action to protect human rights, ensure justice, and create a safer, more equitable Nigeria.

News

NUJ-FCT Elections: Comrade Ike To Flag-Off Campaign With Free Medical Checks, Treatment

Published

6 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

Ahead of theDecember 4, 2024 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council (FCT) election, Comrade Grace Ike, will flag-off her campaign for the position of Chairman with free eye check for journalists on Sunday, November 24, 2024, by 12 noon.

The exercise, under the auspices of the Grace Ike Campaign Council (GICC), which will be held at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat, Utako, Abuja, is expected to attract interested journalists and her teeming supporters across all chapels.

According to Comrade Ike, the reason behind the free eye checks for journalists is based on the critical role their eyes play in their daily tasks as watchdogs and also being a critical organ of the body, there is the need to be attended to and checked by qualified ophthalmologists to boost their productivity.

During the flag-off, the Ike will unveil her campaign management team and itinerary in line with the NUJ FCT Council Election timetable.

The campaign will be anchored on the slogan, “One Voice, New Era” and focused on Accountability, Transparency, Accelerated Development, Capacity Building, New Innovation/Creativity, Improved Welfare & All-round Empowerment for members.

Naijablittznews.com reports Comrade Ike was yesterday cleared by the Credentials Committee and declared elected by the NUJ National as the only candidate for the position of Chairman in the December 4, NUJ-FCT election.

News

President Tinubu Leaves Brazil After G20 Summit

Published

8 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Naijablitznews

President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).

President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.

The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.

He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.

The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.