…as Benin’s higher education minister commend Nigeria’s support

By Gloria Ikibah

In a strategic effort to break communication barriers and boost trade, development, and bilateral relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, the Director General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), Hon. Yusuf Buba Yakub, led a high-level delegation to Cotonou on Monday for talks with the Togolese Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Prof. Eleonore Yayi Ladekan.

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in language learning and professional exchange, with the NTAC DG stressing the importance of the Agency’s role in promoting South-South collaboration by deploying skilled Nigerian professionals to partner countries.

Hon. Buba Yakub reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen ties with its neighbours through initiatives that promote mutual understanding, especially in areas like language and education, which are critical for unlocking the full potential of regional cooperation.

He said: “Our aim is to as much as possible try to mitigate the barriers placed by language in the process of fostering deeper relationships among our people,which is the long-term ideal of every diplomatic effort.

“This will booster trades between our both countries and lead to better economic outcomes for everyone.We know that wherever language is a barrier, progress is limited.So,for NTAC to continue to champion these moves something tells you that we have seen the enormous gains in what we started for our both countries.

“From this collaboration,we intend to deploy a number of English teachers to your country so that we can facilitate an effective learning and acquisition of English Language.We will also learn French.As I said earlier, the goal is to bring down the linguistic divide that exists between our countries and by so doing enhance all other aspects of our bilateral engagements, including trades, services and cultural exchange.”

While receiving the delegation from the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Republic of Benin, Prof. Eleonore Yayi Ladekan, expressed heartfelt appreciation for Nigeria’s consistent support. 

She praised the impact of NTAC’s programmes, particularly in capacity building and human resource development within Benin.

The Minister specifically highlighted the establishment of the Nigerian International School in Cotonou, describing it as a milestone achievement that has significantly contributed to the country’s educational progress in recent years.

She also expressed a keen interest in exploring additional areas of cooperation with NTAC to further strengthen bilateral engagement.

Prof. Ladekan reaffirmed Benin’s commitment to maintaining and expanding collaborative efforts with Nigeria for the mutual benefit of both nations.

She extended her gratitude to the NTAC delegation and conveyed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s unwavering dedication to the advancement of African unity, development, and regional cooperation.

The NTAC Director General, was accompanied by Director of Programmes, Amb. Zakari Usman, other NTAC officials, and representatives from the Nigerian Mission in Cotonou, including Messrs Mubarak Mohammed Mantu and Emmanuel Nwosa.

On the Beninese side, the Minister was joined by members of her team: Ahounouikpe F. Judith, Gbenou Victoria V., Lalaye A. Philippe, Youssa A. Juaka, and Akpovi Salvadore.

By Gloria Ikibah

Nigeria has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Republic of Senegal as the West African nation marks its Independence Day anniversary.

In a statement Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa on Friday, in Abuja, Nigeria’s inister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, conveyed warm wishes to his Senegalese counterpart, Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Yassine Fall.

Ambassador Tuggar praised Senegal’s enduring commitment to unity, resilience, and democratic values, noting that the country’s progress continues to inspire pride across the African continent.

“On this special occasion of your independence anniversary, Nigeria celebrates with Senegal and commends the remarkable spirit that defines the Senegalese people,” the statement read.

The minister highlighted the deep-rooted bilateral relationship between both countries, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing cooperation in critical areas such as trade, security, education, and regional integration—particularly through ECOWAS and the African Union.

“Nigeria remains committed to strengthening the bonds of friendship and mutual cooperation that unite our nations,” the statement added.

Tuggar reiterated Nigeria’s solidarity with Senegal, expressing hope for continued peace, progress, and prosperity in the years ahead.

President Ibrahim Traore of Burkina Faso has reportedly survived a fresh attempt on his life, according to sources close to the government.

The incident, which is said to have occurred late Thursday evening, adds to a growing list of threats the young military leader has faced since seizing power in 2022.

While official details remain limited, preliminary accounts suggest that unidentified attackers targeted President Traore during a routine movement through the capital city, Ouagadougou.

Security personnel swiftly responded to the threat, preventing any harm to the president. It is not yet clear how close the assailants came to achieving their objective.

The presidency has not yet issued a formal statement, but authorities have reportedly launched a full investigation into the incident. No group has claimed responsibility, and the identities and motivations of the attackers remain unknown.

Traore, a 35-year-old military captain, came to power following a coup in September 2022 that ousted former leader Paul-Henri Damiba. Since then, his administration has navigated a turbulent landscape marked by armed insurgencies, political unrest, and mounting public frustration.

While some citizens and political observers have applauded his aggressive stance against corruption and foreign interference, others have criticized what they describe as authoritarian tendencies and the shrinking space for dissent under his rule.

Thursday’s attempted attack highlights the deeply fragile security environment in Burkina Faso, a nation that has grappled with relentless jihadist violence in recent years. Attacks by Islamist militants, particularly in the northern and eastern regions, have displaced thousands and eroded public trust in government institutions.

Speculation is mounting over whether the latest attempt on Traore’s life was orchestrated by extremist elements, disgruntled military factions, or political opponents seeking to exploit the country’s instability.

Regional leaders and international observers are keeping a close eye on the developments, amid growing concerns that Burkina Faso’s crisis could spill over into neighboring states. Analysts warn that continued unrest could undermine recent efforts aimed at stabilizing the country and restoring democratic governance.

President Traore is expected to address the nation in the coming days to reassure citizens and reinforce the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.