Report any official demanding bribe, inducement to me directly – Tinubu tells Qatari investors.

Report any official demanding bribe, inducement to me directly – Tinubu tells Qatari investors.

President Bola Tinubu, on Sunday, March 2, asked the global business community not to miss out on the golden opportunity for investment that Nigeria is offering now, just because of old perceptions.

He emphasized that his administration is actively eliminating obstacles to business, including corruption, to facilitate smoother investment processes.

Speaking at the Nigeria-Qatar Business and Investment Forum in Doha, the Qatari capital, President Tinubu assured investors of access to him, to be able to get their concerns across to him, including reporting officials who might demand bribes from them.

According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu assured the international business community that Nigeria is ready for serious business as his administration will deal decisively with any and all entrenched interests in the country, who undermine investor confidence in the Nigerian economy, pledging to remove all bottlenecks standing in the way of profitable and legitimate enterprise.

The President told Qatari investors that Africa’s largest economy and its systems are being reformed and upgraded, and asked them to report any government official who demands a bribe or any form of inducement at any point in their business endeavour, moving forward, with full assurance of their direct access to the President’s Office.

“I am here to give you the assurance that reforms are going on; forget about whatever you heard in the past. Whatever is the obstacle or problem that some of you might have experienced; it is in the past, because there is no obstacle in the future.

“Do not offer a bribe to any of our people, and if it is requested or taken from you, report to us. You will have access to me. Nigeria will no longer be defined by the past, but by what we do now and moving forward. Do not let perceptions become a hindrance to your will to invest. Nigeria is serious about revolutionizing investment promotion.

“We are removing obstacles today and we are going to continue to remove all obstacles. We have done so much within nine months and I am assuring you, it is free entry and free exit. Your funds will flow smoothly into and out of our country. Bring your investments,” the President stated.

Moreover, the President noted that the war against corruption and insecurity in Nigeria had been significantly strengthened with the appointment of the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, as National Security Adviser (NSA).

“We have a man who has won many global awards for anti-corruption as an anti-corruption czar.

“My responsibility is to tell you that Nigeria is open for business, and to assure you that your investments are safe in our hands. We have men and women of great reputation here. And we believe we can forge a good committee that will advance our discussions to fruitful conclusions.

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“A nation is an artificial entity unless there are good people to drive it. People build great nations and we have great people. We are ready,” the President affirmed.

The President also noted that Nigeria possesses vast opportunities in various fields, telling his host: “We have oil and gas; we have solid minerals. I do not see why we cannot become prolific partners in exploring iron ore, as well as steel production, and energy across the board.

“I am here to give you assurances in all spheres: tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and in many other opportunities that abound around us. Do not be the investors who miss out on the golden opportunity we present,” the President added.

Welcoming the Nigerian delegation in the presence of Qatari captains of industry, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim Al Abdullah Al Thani, Qatar’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, said his country looks forward to exploring opportunities in Nigeria, owing to its population demography and market, as it seeks to prioritize new investments in low carbon initiatives, mineral products, petroleum chemicals, industry, and consumables.

“We look forward to working with our Nigerian counterparts to achieve our joint objectives in these sectors,” the Minister said.

Accompanying the President to the Nigeria-Qatar Business and Investment Forum were: Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum; Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun; and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.

Others are the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite; Minister of Youth, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim; and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperipe Ekpo.

Also at the meeting were the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Special Adviser on Energy, Mrs. Olu Verheijen; and the President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mr. Dele Kelvin Oye.

Nigeria, Qatar sign agreements on education, solid minerals, others.

Nigeria, Qatar sign agreements on education, solid minerals, others.

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday in Doha said Nigerian youths are worth every investment as they are educated, reliable and proactive.

He argued that a few bad eggs cannot be a yardstick for gauging the capacity of the majority who, he said, are “ready to be unleashed for the mutual benefit of both nations.”

Tinubu said these when he and the Emir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, witnessed the signing of seven landmark agreements between both nations after closed-door talks at the Presidential Palace in Doha.

The seven agreements signed are a cooperation agreement in the field of education; regulation of employment of workers with the Government of Qatar; establishment of a joint business council between the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture; in addition to a cooperation agreement in the field of youths and sports.

The other agreements are cooperation in the field of tourism and business events and a memorandum of understanding combating illicit trade in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

The documents were signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and relevant officials in the Government of the State of Qatar, Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, Minister of Education and Higher Education; Dr. Ahmad Hassen Al-Hammadi, Secretary General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Abdullah bin Khalaf bin Hattab Al Kaabi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, revealed this in a statement he signed Sunday titled ‘President Tinubu welcomes multi-sectoral agreements with Qatar: Set to receive Qatar’s investment team in Abuja.’

Before the signing ceremony, President Tinubu assured his host of Nigeria’s preparedness to welcome investors into the country, noting the ongoing reforms that favour innovation, return on investments, and multiculturalism.

Tinubu said, “Our greatest strength is our people. Our strength lies in the capacity of Nigerian youths. They have energy, talent, and self-belief. They are quality partners for the Qatari industry.

“They are educated and reliable, and they are proactively seeking to add value wherever they are. A few cannot give a bad name to the many. Nigerian youths are ready to be unleashed for the mutual benefit of both nations.”

He commended the Qatari government for its developmental mileage saying “We have seen clearly the rapid pace and thorough quality of Qatar’s development process. It is impossible not to be moved by what you have accomplished. The leadership in the country has proven its mettle, and we are here to gain deeper insight.”

Nonetheless, he insisted that “There is nowhere in the world where you will find return on investment at the level of what you will see in Nigeria,” adding that “A massive market of over 200 million skilled Nigerians, always industrious and ready to work.”

The President admitted that although Nigeria faces some short-term turbulence at the moment, its current government reflects the dynamism and talent of the Nigerian people.

“We are implementing the right solutions. This team works collaboratively with each other and our partners. Nigeria is ready for serious business,” the President affirmed.

The Emir of the State of Qatar stressed that Qatar is open to President Tinubu’s investment push, recalling that he travelled to Nigeria in 2019 owing to his belief that Nigeria is an important and strategic ally on its own and within the context of its role in regional affairs.

“I have no doubt about the great capacity of the Nigerian people. Everywhere in the world, they are known for their brilliance and hard work. We only need to ensure that this is happening inside of Nigeria rather than outside.

“The investments we have made around the world have been very fruitful. This is because we take our time and study opportunities before we invest in the commonwealth of our people. It is not my money. The money we invest belongs to the future generations of Qatar,” said Al Thani.

The monarch stated that he is “very encouraged” by Tinubu’s “actions and passion to create new opportunities.”

However, he said both countries must meet each other halfway in terms of follow-up efforts to make the partnership work.

Consequently, he promised to send Qatari officials to Abuja after Ramadan for further engagement.

“We are very open to this, and follow-up is everything at this point. The will is there for both of us, but we must follow up.

“I will send a team of officials to Nigeria after Ramadan, and we will advance discussions on what some of the actionable investment opportunities are,” the Qatari leader said.

On his part, President Tinubu named the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun, as the leader of the government team that will interface with Qatari authorities in investment identification and implementation moving forward.

Furthermore, during the bilateral deliberations, the President enabled a brief presentation to the Emir by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake, who spoke in detail about the high grade of several minerals, including lithium, immediately derivable across the country with an emphasis on imminent opportunities for local mineral processing and value-additive industry in the sector.

Nigerian ministers who were present at the ceremony were: Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake; Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate; Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite; and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr. Ekperipe Ekpo.

Also at the meeting were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and Special Adviser on Energy, Mrs. Olu Verheijen.

FG approves 90-day window to regularise import duty on vehicles.

FG approves 90-day window to regularise import duty on vehicles.

The Federal Government has announced a 90-day window to regularise import duties on specific categories of vehicles.

The National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, Abdullahi Maiwada, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

Maiwada said that the development was a proactive move to enhance compliance and streamline import processes.

Recall that the NCS in February said it intends to grant waivers to vehicle owners to pay duties within a specific time frame to avoid sanctions.

Speaking further, Maiwada added that the initiative applies solely to vehicles imported into Nigeria where the requisite customs duty has not been fulfilled or vehicles detained due to under-valuation.

“In a proactive move to enhance compliance and streamline import processes, the NCS, under the directive of the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, is pleased to announce a 90-day window for regularising import duties on specific categories of vehicles,” he said.

He said that a 25 per cent penalty would be paid.

“Valuation and assessment of the vehicles would be carried out using the Vehicles Identification Number valuation method. Import duty and a 25 per cent penalty shall be paid in tandem with the import guidelines, procedures, and documentation requirements for used vehicles under the Destination Inspection Scheme in Nigeria (2013) and the NCS Act 2023. Also, duty payments must be made using the procedure code specifically created for this exercise.” Maiwads said.

Maiwada explained that vehicles seized and condemned would not be released.

“While we strive for inclusivity, it is important to clarify that vehicles seized and condemned will not be released under this arrangement and shall be forfeited to the Federal Government in accordance with extant regulations.”

The NCS spokesperson reiterates that all owners and importers seeming to regulate their vehicle imports should visit the different zones of the service.

“All vehicle owners, importers/agents seeking to regularize import duties on their vehicles are required to apply to the service’s zonal coordinators (Zones A, B, C, D) and Customs Area Controller of the Federal Capital Territory Command.”

“They must submit the necessary available documents and process V-reg in line with the Federal Ministry of Finance directives for the registration of imported motor vehicles.”

Maiwada said that the initiative reflects the service’s unwavering commitment to facilitating compliance. We encourage all stakeholders to capitalise on this opportunity within the stipulated timeframe.

Ekiti seeks Partnership with LASEMA on Disaster Management.

Ekiti seeks Partnership with LASEMA on Disaster Management.

Ekiti State Government is set to collaborate with Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) to bolster security measures and fortify disaster management strategies. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji disclosed this during a working visit to LASEMA Headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, at the weekend. 

The Governor restated the resolve of his administration to safeguard the lives and properties of its citizens while fostering a secure and conducive environment for their daily endeavors.

Accompanied by the State Commissioner of Finance, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji was received by the Director-General of LASEMA, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyintolu, who took him on a tour of the agency’s facilities. 

Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu explained the pivotal roles played by various units within the Emergency Operation Center, stressing the significance of digitization in streamlining emergency information and coordination processes, often in collaboration with private entities.

“For the state Governor to be here to Partner with us at LASEMA speaks volume. This is the kind of commitment you expect from a good leader who is ready to secure lives and properties of his people. We are ready to address all the security challenges and emergency issues. We will partner with Ekiti fully, efficiently and effectively. We will share information and build capacity”, the LASEMA boss said.

Furthermore, Dr. Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted potential areas of improvement for Ekiti State in emergency and disaster management, including fire services, environmental stewardship, rapid response initiatives, and ambulance services. He emphasized the critical need for adequate funding and streamlined bureaucratic processes in optimizing emergency response mechanisms.

Expressing his satisfaction with the LASEMA team and their operational strategies, Governor Oyebanji expressed his readiness to adopt and adapt Lagos' digitization approach to address security and emergency challenges within Ekiti State. 

“I swore to defend ekiti people, they elected me to do certain things for them. Most states are grappling with security and emergency issues We have gotten to a point where we have to secure our territory because security is very key.

“As a state, we have a structure on ground but I have come to LASEMA here today to see for myself and seek collaboration with LASEMA who have walked the path and made their own mistakes but they are now doing well, for us, we don’t have the financial resources that Lagos has and we cannot afford to make too many faulty steps. 

“We have discussed and the collaboration will start immediately. I am assuring Ekiti people that they are in for the best. I am excited and I must thank Lagos state for giving our Son, Dr Oke-Osanyintolu this platform to serve.”, the Governor added.

Reps summon Binance boss over alleged terrorism financing, others.

Reps summon Binance boss over alleged terrorism financing, others.

The House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes has summoned the Chief Executive of Binance Holding Limited, Richard Teng, over alleged involvement in terrorism financing and money laundering.

The Chairman of the Committee, Ginger Onwusibe, on Friday at a panel, issued a seven-day ultimatum to the management of Binance Holdings Ltd to appear before the committee on or before March 4, 2024.

Binance, an online exchange where users deal in cryptocurrency, has been flagged by the Central Bank of Nigeria to have been involved in money laundering, amongst others.

Onwusibe, however, warned that the committee would be forced to invoke the constitutional powers vested in the committee to take appropriate measures if Binance Holdings fails to heed the summon.

Onwusibe, decried the refusal of the Chief Executive of Binance Holding Limited, Teng, to appear after a series of invitations to brief the committee relating to the total disregard for extant laws governing business and financial operations in the country.

The Committee had summoned the Managing Director of Binance, in a letter dated 12th December 2023 and signed by its chairman, Onwusibe requesting a hearing on the 18th of December, 2023.

“We also have to protect and defend the country’s finances, especially now that the country is nose-diving into recession. The allegations of terrorism financing, money laundering and tax evasion amongst others levelled against Binance are damning enough.

“At this material time, we need all the tax dollars and to block the leaks and channels to financing terror,” the lawmaker added.

$104b needed to meet net zero commitment by 2050 – DG.

$104b needed to meet net zero commitment by 2050 – DG.

The Federal Government has inaugurated a committee to actualise the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) in Northeast Nigeria.

The committee chaired by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, was constituted by the Minister, according to a statement from the minister’s office on Saturday, February 24.

Other members of the committee are representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Emergency Management Agency, Northeast Development Commission and National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

The UNMAS is a service located within the United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations that specialises in coordinating and implementing activities to limit the threat posed by mines, explosive remnants of war and improvised explosive devices.

The Nation recalls that the UNMAS was initially deployed to Nigeria in 2018 to provide technical support in areas of coordination, planning and technical advice and support to the humanitarian communities and government, but left after years of inaction.

The inauguration of the committee is an indication that the present administration in synergy with the Borno State Government has given the issue of demining of Northeast, which was ravaged by the activities of Boko Haram/ ISWAP terrorists for more than a decade, adequate attention.

Speaking after inaugurating the committee, Matawalle said the inauguration of the committee was a “bold step” that the federal government was committed to providing support to hazardous areas affected by either war or activities of terrorism.

The Minister said some of the benefits of the UNMAS include assistance for the IDPs, risk education and advocacy, clearance of the identified hazardous areas and stockpile destruction.

Matawalle said the federal government would work with the UNMAS in working out a workable solution in reintegrating IDPs and farmers into society for better life.

He said: “There is the need to conduct Technical Surveys to identify hazardous areas that need to be safe before any other activities can take place.

“We need to redesign action plan for the IDP returnees and farmers to go back to their farms.

He said the federal government would also provide essential technical support for the establishment of a National Mine Action Centre in the Northeast and extend it to the Northeast where incidences of insurgency are still prevalent.

 “Such a centre will afford the IDPs the opportunity to return to their communities and have access to quality education,” he said.

The minister disclosed that the Borno State Government has provided official and residential buildings for the activities of UNMAS to commence in the North-East.

I will make impact as FCT Minister – Wike.

I will make impact as FCT Minister – Wike.

Federal Capital Territory Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has assured Abuja residents that he will make an impact as FCT Minister.

He said the decision of President Bola Tinubu to turn the nation’s capital, Abuja, into a huge construction site is to ensure that his Renewed Hope Agenda finds immediate expressions in the lives of residents even before his first anniversary in office.

Wike disclosed this on Saturday after he inspected several ongoing projects across Abuja.

The minister, who expressed delight at the pace of work in the various sites, said some of the projects are nearing completion.

Wike said: “I have to commend the various contractors. The first site we went to is one of those areas that by the grace of God, is 85 percent ready. One of those interchanges in Wuye. The contractors are keeping to date and their commitment to delivering by the end of May.

“We also went to the Kuje road. It will open up that area of the Council. Last time when I went to flag off one of the rural roads, I did say that the contractors were not serious, but going back there today, one is very impressed with the level and quality of work.

“I have always said that we are not going to allow any project to be abandoned. We have taken our priorities and most of these projects are also included in the statutory budget of 2024, which will soon be submitted to the National Assembly by Mr. President when he returns from Qatar. I am very happy with the quality and speed with which these companies are working.

“By May, Nigerians’ will see the changes as far as FCT is concerned. We are carrying out a lot of resurfacing of the roads in the city centre like Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse and the rest of them.

“On Abuja turning into a construction site, it is all about the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President. So many people had lost hope before and Mr. President said no need to lose hope, we are here to rekindle your hope, bring back the hope.

Earlier, Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad said the Administration is currently constructing 11 kilometres of the 76 kilometre Kuje-Gwargwada-Rubochi-Abaji-Nasarawa six-lane highway.