oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | culture, government, heritage, politics, politics and government
ABUJA
– The federal government plans to initiate the “Renewed Hope Cultural Project,” a countrywide program aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s cultural legacy, boosting tourism, and driving economic development.
This initiative supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and seeks to protect Nigeria’s extensive cultural heritage while fostering economic growth by developing Renewed Hope Cultural Villages throughout the country.
Recently, speaking with reporters in Ilorin via telephone, Barr. Abiola Abdulkareem Jagunlabi, who serves as the Special Assistant to the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, and is also the project coordinator, detailed the goals of this new initiative.
He emphasized strategies for rehabilitating and protecting historical locations, landmarks, royal residences, and treasures, along with boosting cultural instruction and strengthening skills within nearby artisan communities.
Jagunlabi highlighted that this program aims to bolster rural areas by delivering vocational education, furnishing local craftsmen with business acumen, and presenting alternate professional routes for young Nigerians.
“The plan involves investing in historic sites, landmarks, and natural attractions, providing vocational skill development for women and young people in rural regions, and hosting lively cultural festivals and tourism events to showcase Nigeria’s rich diversity,” he said.
He additionally emphasized that the project’s success hinges on working together with state governments, local communities, and various stakeholders.
“Through collaboration, Nigeria has the potential to utilize the transformative impact of its arts, culture, tourism, and creative sectors for sustainable growth and social unity,” Jagunlabi emphasized.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hajia Hannatu Musa Musawa, is leading initiatives aimed at fostering economic development via cutting-edge programs and policies.
She is proactively building alliances to foster growth within the creative sector, thereby opening up job prospects for young Nigerians.
The art and cultural industry in Nigeria holds substantial promise for enhancing tourism and fostering economic development.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTWC) reports that Nigeria’s tourism industry accounted for around $7.2 billion, which represents roughly 2.8% of the country’s GDP in 2019.
By strategically investing in cultural tourism, this number could rise substantially, leading to increased employment opportunities and higher foreign exchange revenues.
Nations like France and Italy, which boast robust cultural tourism sectors, earn billions each year from their historical sites and events.
Through harnessing its rich tapestry of cultural elements—which includes more than 250 distinct ethnic groups, numerous traditional celebrations, and iconic historic sites—Nigeria has the potential to draw greater numbers of global visitors and boost domestic tourism income.
Statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) show that more than 4.2 million Nigerians are now employed in the creative sector, suggesting substantial room for growth should adequate support be provided.
Jagunlabi further disclosed that the National Economic Council (NEC) has provided complete support for the initiative, acknowledging the essential part played by state governments in guaranteeing its successful implementation.
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oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | donald trump, international economics, international trade, politics, politics and government
President Donald Trump sparked what could become a devastating worldwide trade conflict on Wednesday when he imposed 10% tariffs on goods imported globally and introduced stringent additional duties on major trading allies.
Displaying a chart detailing extensive measures in the White House Rose Garden, Trump announced stringent tariffs targeting key trading partners such as China and the European Union, referring to the day as “Liberation Day.”
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U.S. President Donald Trump announced a series of tariffs on trading partners and rivals. The image was provided by AFP.
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In my view, this is one of the key dates in American history,” stated Trump. “Today marks our declaration of economic independence.
The announcement sparked instant outrage — with the United States’ ally Australia denouncing the tariffs as “not the gesture of a friend” — and prompted vows of reprisal from various countries worldwide.
The stock market appeared poised for significant fluctuations upon resuming trading on Thursday. American futures dropped sharply, and safe-haven gold reached an all-time high as investors grew wary.
Trump directed his harshest criticisms at countries he accused of mistreating the U.S., imposing tariffs such as 34% on products from geopolitical competitor China, 20% on items from the European Union, and 24% on goods from Japan.
As for the others, Trump stated that he would implement a minimum tariff of 10%, which would also apply to another major ally, Britain.
The 78-year-old Republican dismissed concerns about potential unrest, asserting that the tariffs would bring back a once-lost “Golden Era” for the U.S. economy.
“For many years, our nation has faced theft, destruction, rape, and plunder at the hands of countries close and distant, whether allies or adversaries,” Trump stated.
‘Make America wealthy again’
A carefully selected crowd consisting of cabinet members along with employees wearing hard hats from sectors such as steel, oil, and natural gas clapped and shouted enthusiastically when Trump stated that the tariffs would “bring wealth back to America.”
The broad auto tariffs of 25%, which President Trump declared earlier this week, were scheduled to come into force at 12:01 am (0401 GMT) on Thursday.
Trump labelled Wednesday’s tariffs “reciprocal” but many experts say his administration’s estimates for levies placed on US imports by other countries are wildly exaggerated
For several weeks, the U.S. president had hinted at this action, which raised concerns about an economic downturn domestically due to increased costs being borne by American consumers, along with potential harm from a trade conflict internationally.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned countries against implementing retaliatory measures, stating on Fox News: “Should you choose to retaliate, it will lead to further escalation.”
Several Asian countries heavily impacted as trading partners included drops such as 49% for Cambodia, 46% for Vietnam, and 44% for Myanmar, under military rule and recently struck by a severe earthquake.
A White House official stated that Russia wasn’t impacted since it is already under sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict, which “rule out any significant trade.”
The tariffs will also reinforce fears that Trump is backing even further away from US allies towards a new order based on a vision of American supremacy.
‘Fight’
On Thursday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the tariffs were “completely unjustified.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has aligned closely with former U.S. President Donald Trump, stated that the tariffs imposed on the European Union were “incorrect.” However, she affirmed her commitment to collaborate with Washington to reach an agreement.
The UK emerged largely unscathed following a diplomatic effort that saw Prime Minister Keir Starmer visiting the White House to present an invitation from King Charles III for a state visit, yet they still aimed to “alleviate” the imposed tariffs.
Canada and Mexico are exempt from the new tariffs because Trump has already penalized these two neighboring countries over his claims regarding their inadequate efforts to combat fentanyl drug smuggling and illegal migration.
The Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, pledged to combat the current tariffs on steel, aluminum, and vehicles and to introduce retaliatory measures.
Brazil’s Congress responded by passing legislation permitting the government in South America’s biggest economy to address trade barriers.
Trump’s declaration just three months into his second term marks the end point of a longstanding romance with tariffs, which he has viewed for years as a panacea for America’s trade deficits and economic problems.
oleh admin | Apr 3, 2025 | donald trump, international economics, international trade, politics, politics and government
On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump sparked what could become a devastating trade conflict by imposing broad 10 percent tariffs on goods imported globally and stringent extra duties on major trading allies.
Standing before the American flags in the White House Rose Garden, Trump announced stringent tariffs on both China and the European Union, referring to the day as “Liberation Day.”
Trump’s tariffs sparked instant outrage, with the United States’ ally Australia denouncing them as “unjustified” and Italy deeming them “incorrect,” while several nations have pledged countermeasures.
“For many years, our nation has faced theft, destruction, exploitation, and plunder at the hands of countries close and distant, regardless of whether they were allies or adversaries,” Trump stated.
When Trump delivered his statement, Wall Street was not yet open for business; however, the S&P index had dropped by 1.5 percent during extended trading hours. Meanwhile, the value of the dollar decreased by one percent relative to the euro while he spoke, though it later rebounded.
Trump directed his harshest criticisms at countries he accused of mistreating the U.S., imposing tariffs such as 34% on products from geopolitical competitor China, 20% on imports from the European Union, and 24% on those from Japan.
However, the 78-year-old Republican — who displayed a chart listing the highest tariffs — mentioned that he was being “quite lenient” and thus was only applying half the rate that the “biggest culprits” imposed on American goods.
– ‘Rebuild American Prosperity’ –
As for the others, Trump stated he would enforce a “minimum” tariff of 10 percent, which would also apply to another major ally, Britain.
A crowd consisting of cabinet members along with employees wearing hard hats from sectors such as steel, oil, and gas loudly applauded and cheered as Trump stated that the tariffs would “reestablish America’s wealth.”
This marks the Liberation Day,” Trump stated, emphasizing that it will “go down in history as the moment when American manufacturing was rejuvenated.
The broad-based auto tariffs of 25 percent that were declared by Trump earlier this week are set to be implemented at 12:01 am (0401 GMT) on Thursday.
Canada and Mexico are exempt from the new tariffs because Trump has previously implemented duties on these two U.S. neighbors due to his claim that they have failed to stop the illegal flow of the drug fentanyl.
Trump had hinted at this action for several weeks, asserting that tariffs would prevent other nations from exploiting the United States and foster a new economic “Golden Era.”
However, numerous specialists caution that these tariffs could lead to an economic downturn domestically as they result in higher costs for American consumers, and may also spark a detrimental trade conflict internationally.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned countries against implementing retaliatory measures, stating on Fox News: “Should you choose to retaliate, it will lead to further escalation.”
The global community has been anticipating Trump’s announcement with great tension, and his imposed tariffs have affected nations across the planet.
A number of regions heavily affected were in Asia, with percentages such as 49% for Cambodia, 47% for Vietnam, and 44% for Myanmar, under military rule and recently struck by a catastrophic earthquake.
The country with the highest rate of 50 percent was Lesotho — the Southern African nation that Trump recently referred to as a place “no one has ever heard of.”
– ‘Totally unwarranted’ –
The tariffs will also reinforce fears that Trump is backing even further away from US allies towards a new order based on a vision of American supremacy.
On Thursday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the tariffs were “completely unjustified” and would alter how people view the U.S.-Australia relationship.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has aligned closely with former U.S. President Donald Trump, criticized the tariffs imposed on the European Union as “incorrect.” However, she affirmed her commitment to collaborate with Washington towards reaching an agreement.
Britain emerged largely unscathed following a diplomatic effort that saw Prime Minister Keir Starmer visiting the White House bearing an invitation from King Charles III for a state visit.
However, it continues to be dedicated to finalizing a trade agreement that could “alleviate” the 10 percent tariff it currently bears, according to business minister Jonathan Reynolds.
Trump has had a long love affair with tariffs, insisting in the face of experts that they are a cure-all for America’s trade imbalances and economic ills.
The wealthy entrepreneur claims that these taxes will lead to a “renaissance” of America’s depleted manufacturing sector, and he asserts that businesses can circumvent these duties by relocating to the U.S.
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oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | controversies, government, news, politics, politics and government
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected Peter Obi’s criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government, describing it as a rant from someone experiencing “an extended period of post-election defeat frustration.”
In a statement released on Wednesday, Barrister Felix Morka, who serves as the National Publicity Secretary for the governing party, commented on remarks allegedly made during a Prime Time show on Arise Television on Tuesday by the previous Labour Party contender.
The APC alleged that Obi delivered a comprehensive criticism of the Tinubu administration while intentionally overlooking its accomplishments in nearly every sector.
To tell you the truth, watching Mr. Obi struggle fruitlessly to construct any coherent critique of the economy despite the clear and indisputable evidence of progress from the administration’s reform efforts was quite distressing. Even his usual tactic of exaggerating temporary challenges faced by Nigerians who have backed the President’s ambitious and innovative economic strategy failed to provide him with an escape route. As he stumbled through his presentation on national TV, he ended up looking like a symbol of exasperation and political hopelessness.
Mr. Obi often says, ‘I could have done better as president,’ indicating a prolonged state of disillusionment following electoral defeats. He seems unable to accept that he does not hold the office of presidency. Similar to an unqualified passenger who believes they are a professional racer, Mr. Obi ought to rein in his inflated and misguided sense of self.
Latest Update: Edo Court Rejects Action Alliance’s Petition Against Governor Okpebholo
In Other News: Tinubu Heads to Paris on Working Visit
Updated Information: Tinubu Names Bayo Ojulari as New Head of NNPC Group
Opposition politics isn’t focused on dismissing the numerous achievements of the administration. Instead, it involves pointing out potential issues while also recognizing the positive aspects. This approach doesn’t aim at overall criticism meant to deceive or gain easy political points. The consistent advancement made by the Tinubu administration in various fields is clear and visible to every Nigerian.
In listing the government’s achievements in reviving the economy, increasing foreign reserves, restoring idle refineries, and reducing inflation, the APC asserted that Tinubu would remain focused despite criticism from figures like Obi. As the former Governor of Anambra State, Obi left behind an unfortunate heritage marked by economic decline, deteriorated infrastructure, environmental crises, and heightened religious tensions.
The declaration went on to say: “As both the previous governor of Lagos State and currently serving as president, Tinubu has proven himself to be an unyielding achiever who fearlessly tackles daunting tasks head-on, converting them into chances for progress. Just like his accomplishments in Lagos, President Tinubu is now driving similar advancements across Nigeria. The country’s economy shows steady recovery, consistently recording enhanced trade surpluses leading to projected economic growth of 3.6% this financial year. Foreign reserves are rapidly increasing, domestic refineries have been restored and put back into operation, food price increases are slowing down, various currency rates have successfully converged which encourages more foreign investment and remittance inflows, and the foreign exchange market remains relatively stable.”
The administration highlights its achievements through the resolved $7 billion foreign currency backlog and Ways and Means debt exceeding $30 billion. They have decreased their debt servicing ratio from 98 percent down to around 64 percent. Oil production has surged past 1.8 million barrels per day (mbpd), breaking OPEC’s long-standing quota of 1.5 mbpd after numerous years. The country’s stock exchange market, which has become among the most lucrative globally, reflects this progress. Additionally, significant growth across various sectors including agriculture, mining, steel, manufacturing, creativity, and others aims at boosting non-oil contributions to Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Recently, Chatham House recognized the national economy as being more competitive than ever before within the last quarter-century.
While global organizations and specialists are praising the quiet economic transformation underway under President Tinubu’s leadership, Obi and his fellow opposition supporters persist in dismissing President Tinubu’s remarkable and unparalleled accomplishments nearing the midpoint of his term.
President Tinubu continues to remain unwaveringly concentrated on achieving effective governance and enhanced economic circumstances for Nigeria’s entire population.
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oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | human rights, politics, politics and government, politics and law, public policy
“The NHRC urged the government to implement specific measures to avoid similar incidents in the future,” it stated.
The NHRC has called for justice regarding the 16 hunters who were lynched last Thursday in Edo State, and has appealed to the government to implement measures designed to prevent such incidents from happening again.
Tony Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, voiced his worries regarding the mob killing in a media release published in Abuja on Tuesday.
The commission insists that all those responsible must be identified and held accountable.
“The statement urged the government to implement specific measures to avoid similar events from happening again, as there is no excuse for vigilante justice anywhere globally,” it stated.
The 16 travellers were
reportedly lynched
Following their misidentification as kidnappers by local vigilantes on Thursday on the Uromi/Obajana Expressway within the Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Reports indicate that the victims were en route from Rivers State to Kano for the Eid-el-Fitr festivities when they encountered an assault by local vigilante groups. The attackers whipped the victims and subsequently burned them alive.
The Nigerian Police
announced
On March 29th, 14 individuals linked to the case were apprehended.
Rights violated
On Tuesday, the NHRC issued a statement urging both the Nigerian government and citizens to uphold the right to life and freedom of movement, following the killing of 16 individuals in an atrocity where these rights were blatantly disregarded.
He pointed out that the right to life is established in Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution, Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights as well as Chapter 4 of the Nigerian Federal Republic Constitution
state
that the sanctity of life for every person should be upheld unless that individual has been condemned to death.
Article 6 of the
International Pact on Civil and Political Rights
goes on to advocate for the elimination of capital punishment.
Moreover, Mr. Ojukwu urged Nigerians to uphold the right to free movement as assured by the Constitution, Article 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and Article 12 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The event has sparked nationwide anger, with leading figures and civil society organizations (CSOs) demanding a probe and ensuring the ones responsible face justice.
Amongst
They include former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, Amnesty International, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
and
previous contenders for president, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi.
Edo govt. reacts
On Saturday, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki issued an immediate suspension for the commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Friday Ibadin, who is a retired police commissioner, due to this incident.
killing of hunters
in the state.
On Saturday, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhidor, issued an official statement indicating that the governor has suspended all unauthorized vigilante organizations active within the state.
Their suspensions came after reviewing the initial report of the horrific killings of several hunters in Uromi.
The Esan North East Local Government Area
On Thursday, Mt Ikhilor stated regarding the state.
Mr. Ikhilor stated again that the local vigilante group responsible for the horrific killings on March 27th had been acting unlawfully and was neither documented nor registered with the Edo State Security Corps. He further noted that their acts do not align with the goals of the corps.
During his visit to the families of the victims on Monday, Mr. Okpebholo promised to provide compensation for the relatives of the 16 killed hunters.
He made the
compensation pledge when
Alongside his counterpart from Kano State, Abba Yusuf, he visited the families of the deceased hunters in Torankawa, Kano State, to offer condolences.
He praised the residents of Kano State for staying composed despite the circumstances.
“I would like to praise the residents of Kano State and all of Northern Nigeria for refraining from taking justice into their own hands and avoiding retaliatory assaults,” he stated.
Mr Okpebholo
has assured
that those responsible will encounter the complete force of the legal system.
NHRC commends governor’s actions
Mr. Ojukwu encouraged the Edo State Government to keep investigating the issue and praised the governor for suspending the leader of the Edo State Security Corps as well as prohibiting unauthorized vigilante operations throughout the state.
He likewise expressed the commission’s dedication to overseeing the continuous probe.
From our side, we will keep an eye on the investigation process to make sure justice prevails. This should act as a warning to others.
The promotion and safeguarding of human rights are crucial for national progress. Let’s adopt a culture that respects these rights and basic freedoms to improve Nigeria.
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oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | government, political debates, politics, politics and government, politics and law
The
All Progressives Congress (APC)
Babatunde Sobowale, who is seeking leadership for the Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has organized a Ramadan lecture.
At the gathering, speakers motivated attendees to engage actively in political endeavors.
Sheikh Yunus Jamiu, from Mufti Diyaar of Alimosho, emphasized using power and authority for fulfilling God’s will.
As per his view, the concept of leadership within Islam began with the arrival of Prophet Muhammad, who advised his companions to always select a leader whenever they embarked on a journey.
The prophet merged within himself the roles of emissary, political leader, and military chief, much as we see today. It is attributed to Prophet Muhammad that he stated: ‘Whoever follows their leader has followed me, Muhammad, and whoever disobeys their leader has disobeyed me, Muhammad.’
Sheikh Jamiu highlighted certain criteria for selecting leaders, including “choosing according to an Islamic viewpoint, demonstrating mercy, showing benevolence, possessing the wisdom to guide others, maintaining fairness and justice, and beingmale.”
Host Tunde Sobowale expressed his gratitude to God for bringing the event to fruition.
He mentioned that the purpose of the meeting was to enlighten Muslim attendees about topics such as “Islam and Politics” and “The Importance of Continuous Charity.”
“This public Ramadan lecture is unprecedented for TS projects and is here to remain, God willing,” he stated.
Sheikh Sulaimon Ibrahim stated that Zakat is an essential part of Islam, designed to cleanse one’s finances and promote support from the affluent to those in need.
He mentioned that items eligible for Sadaqah encompass edibles, monetary donations, and extending compassion to those who are underprivileged.
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