News
Tinubu Urges ECOWAS Leaders to Embrace Ghana’s Democratic Example
…say significant progress in economic integration, conflict resolution, counterterrorism
…as Nigeria fulfil obligation, clears N85bn, $54m community levy
By Gloria Ikibah
President of Nigeria and Chairman of ECOWAS Heads of States, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on West African leaders to draw inspiration from Ghana’s recent elections as a testament to the region’s democratic maturity and commitment to national unity.
Speaking at the opening of the 66th Ordinary Session of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Sunday in Abuja, Tinubu commended the peaceful presidential and parliamentary elections held in Ghana on December 7, 2024.
He praised Ghana’s democratic process, highlighting the swift concession by the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) to opposition candidate John Dramani Mahama of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
“This gesture, akin to what we experienced in Nigeria in 2015, demonstrates political maturity and respect for the will of the people of Ghana,” Tinubu said.
He also urged other nations in the region to emulate this model to ensure peaceful transitions and political stability.
President Tinubu lauded Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo for his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to ECOWAS during his tenure, and described him as a committed Pan-Africanist and congratulated Ghana’s Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on her appointment as Secretary General of the Commonwealth.
The Nigerian leader also praised Senegal’s successful parliamentary elections, and noted the nation’s contribution to regional stability and democratic development.
Nigeria’s Fulfillment of ECOWAS Obligations
In a major milestone, the Federal Government announced that it has fully paid its ECOWAS community levy for 2023 and the first half of 2024. The payment, totaling N85 billion and $54 million, underscores Nigeria’s leadership role in the region.
“For the first time in 19 years, Nigeria has met 100% of its community levy obligations. This reflects the leadership and commitment of President Tinubu and the Nigerian people to our community”, said Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission.
Achievements in Regional Integration
Reflecting on his first term as ECOWAS Chair, President Tinubu highlighted significant progress in economic integration, conflict resolution, and counterterrorism.
Initiatives such as the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS), the Common External Tariff (CET), and infrastructure projects like the West African Gas Pipeline and the West Africa Power Pool have strengthened regional cooperation and connectivity.
“Our efforts in stabilizing the region through peacekeeping missions in The Gambia and Guinea Bissau, as well as earlier operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone, demonstrate our collective capacity to act decisively,” Tinubu said.
He also commended the ECOWAS Regional Action Plan on the Fight Against Terrorism for providing a robust framework to address violent extremism and enhance security.
A Call to Renew Commitment
As ECOWAS approaches its 50th anniversary in 2025, Tinubu urged member states to recommit to the bloc’s founding principles of economic integration, peace, and prosperity.
“As leaders, we must ensure the security and well-being of our citizens. Security is not a luxury, and improving living standards is not an aspiration—it is an obligation,” Tinubu emphasized.
The event was attended by Presidents from Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, and Senegal, alongside high-level representatives from Sierra Leone, Benin Republic, Togo, and Cape Verde.
The session served as a platform to celebrate democratic milestones while addressing challenges to regional unity and security. President Tinubu’s call for greater collaboration and adherence to democratic principles underscores his vision of a stronger, more integrated West Africa.have been privileged to lead since 2022.
…commend his leadership qualities, contribution to national development
By Gloria Ikibah
The Chairman House of Representatives’ Committee onthe Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rep. Muktar Betara has congratulated Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago on his 51st birthday.
Rep. Betara who represents Biu/Bayo/Shani/Kwaya Kusar Federal Constituency of Borno State, in a congratulatory message admitted Governor Bago’s relentless advocacy for Nigerites as well as the meaningful contributions to legislative processes that shaped national development while serving as Member of the House of Representatives.
Thrilled by the leadership qualities of Governor Bago, he applauded various unprecedented developmental projects initiated since his assumption of office in 2023.
He said: “Your Excellency, on this special occasion of your 51st birthday, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you.
“This milestone is a testament to a life dedicated to public service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Niger State and Nigeria at large.
“As the Governor of Niger State, your visionary leadership has continued to inspire hope and transformation across various sectors.
“Your dedication to infrastructural development, education, healthcare, and especially, agriculture, and security has significantly improved the lives of the people, reinforcing your reputation as a leader who prioritises the welfare of his people.
“Your efforts in fostering economic growth and good governance have set a solid foundation for sustainable development in the state.
“Before assuming office as Governor, your impactful tenure as a Member of the House of Representatives was marked by your relentless advocacy for your constituents and meaningful contributions to legislative processes that shaped national development.
“As you celebrate this new chapter of your life, may you continue to be blessed with wisdom, strength, and good health to steer Niger State toward greater heights. Happy birthday !”
…as currency swap boosting bilateral trade
By Gloria Ikibah
The Nigerian government is deepening economic collaboration with China to drive industrialisation and economic diversification.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known when she received the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, in Abuja.
The Minister emphasised that Nigeria’s longstanding ties with China, spanning over five decades, align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic expansion and resilience.
Outlining key areas where Nigeria seeks Chinese support, including electric vehicle production, digital technology, renewable energy, and agriculture, Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged China’s significant role in Nigeria’s road and rail infrastructure development and noted that the country is taking concrete steps to modernize its ports and power sector to attract more investment.
She also highlighted the importance of cultural ties, and noted the growing interest among Nigerian youths in learning the Chinese language.
The minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its economic partnership with China, highlighting that the ongoing currency swap agreement is already enhancing trade relations between both nations.
“It’s quite interesting that a large population of Nigeria youth is inching towards Chinese Language. A lot of Nigerian Universities are desirous to offer Chinese Language. Chinese had become the language of trade in the world.
“Nigeria-China will continue to relate not just bilaterally but multilaterally.
“We expect that we will continue to get the support of China but we will always reciprocate that multilaterally.
“In line with President Tinubu’s plan to industrialise Nigeria, we expect Chinese cooperation in establishing assembly plants of electric vehicles; digital communication, renewable energy, all aspects of digital technology, agriculture because of food insecurity as the government is interested in seeing that food gets to the poorest of the poor. Government is not just talking about food but has established a separate Ministry of Livestock,” the minister stated.
She urged China to extend trade tariff exemptions to its exports, similar to the concessions already granted to 33 other African nations, emphasising that the Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes stronger ties between citizens and deeper country-to-country partnerships.
In response, Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Nigeria, describing the country as a key strategic partner. He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to China and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) had elevated diplomatic and economic engagements between both nations.
Amb. Yu highlighted ongoing collaborations in infrastructure, including roads, railway modernization, power, industrial parks, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port. He disclosed that trade volume between the two nations exceeded $21 billion last year, with Nigeria’s exports to China accounting for over 25% of this figure.
He further underscored the role of manufacturing in industrialization, pointing to the recently renewed $2 billion currency swap agreement as a tool to enhance financial cooperation, boost bilateral trade, and attract more investment.
Expressing optimism about the future, the envoy stated that these efforts would ultimately yield tangible benefits for ordinary citizens in both countries.
He said: “We have a comprehensive strategic partnership with Nigeria. China would want Nigeria to play a big role in the international scene. We want Nigeria to become a member of G-20. These will all provide opportunity for China and Nigeria to further work together closely.
“For China, we have been very consistent. We give grant to any African countries; we don’t give any conditions.”
He further acknowledged that it was important that the two countries met to review how far they have performed in their bilateral cooperation.
Speaker Abbas Hails Governor Bago @51
Betara Celebrates Governor Bago @51
Nigeria Seeks Stronger Economic Ties with China
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