Category: General News

An analysis by – Lawal Sale

The occasion was the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit Plus in Tianjin, presided by Presided Xi Jinping. Over the meeting, President Xi spiritedly delivered a very important historic statement to the audience comprising leaders of countries of about half of the world’s population. The title of President Xi’s statement was “Pooling the strength of the Shanghai Cooperation to improve Global Governance”.

The statement came two days to the China’s 80th commemoration of victory against Japanese aggression during the world war II and the 80 years of founding of the United Nations. In a bold move, President Xi Jinping unveiled a sweeping proposal for a new global order themed: “Global Governance Initiative (GGI), positioning it as a blueprint for fairness, and more inclusive international cooperation where all nations and people will be equal.

According to President Xi, the proposed Global Governance Initiative was to promote the building of a more just and equitable global governance system and work together for a community with a shared future for humanity.

President Xi also called on nations to embrace multipolarity and reject hegemonism. He maintained that China is ready, together with all parties to uphold courageously the great principle and the common good of the world, promote a correct historical perspective on World War II, resolutely safeguard the fruits of their victory in the war, and deliver more benefits to the entire humanity through the reform of the global governance system and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

There is no doubt that the global stage is experiencing uncertainties and turbulence, the UN and multilateralism as it’s principles are being challenged, many things are in deficit in global governance system and continue to grow. Leaders at the SCO summit noted that sustainable development faces challenges due to the threat of unilateralism and disregard for the UN international norms.

GGI and it’s Five Core Concepts:

The five core concepts were:
First: Adhering to sovereign equality, where all countries regardless of size, strength, or wealth shall have the right to make decisions in, and benefit from global governance as equals.

Second: Staying committed to international rule of law where there shall be no double standards, and the self-defined rules of a few nations must not be imposed upon others.

Third: Staying committed to multilateralism. This is the basic pathway of a global governance where multilateralism is the core concept of the existing international system and international order.

Fourth: Adhering to people-centred approach. This is essentially ensure that people of all nations jointly participate in global governance and share it’s outcomes.

Fifth and the last: This concept of GGI is about focusing on taking real action/results – this is an important concept of adopting a systematic and holistic approach, coordinate global actions, fully mobilize various resources, strive for more visible outcomes, and enhance practical cooperation to prevent the governance system from lagging behind or being fragmented.

GGI as International System for Inclusiveness:

Adding voice to President Xi’s GGI concepts, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi noted that the GGI came at the right time as the world is fraught with challenges including frequent regional unrest, slowed economic growth and rise of anti-globalism.

He emphasized that the spirit the initiative is in line with the purposes and principles of the UN charter, maintaining that GGI was aimed at firmly supporting the UN central role in international affairs, and to encourage countries to participate in the reform of the global governance system by relying on multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations.

Global Affairs experts recall that prior to the unveiling Global Governance Initiative by President Xi during the SCO summit, he earlier introduced other noble and important global initiatives with the aim of strengthtening and improving global governance, injecting more stability and certainty into a turbulent world, Africa in particular.

These earlier initiatives by President Xi were the Global Développement Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), and Global Civilization Initiative (GCI).

According to the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, the four remarkable initiatives have their respective priorities and can be pursued simultaneously. He said “Each initiative will be a source of positive energy for a changing and turbulent world.

Quoting from a paper he delivered on the Initiative, Ambassador Yu noted that GGI should be regarded as the fundamental guideline to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN charter and practice the vision of global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contributions for shared benefit, the GGI seeks to promote the building of a more just and equitable global governance system and work together for a community with a shared future for humanity, Yu said.

The Ambassador further emphasized that the five GGI concepts are closely aligned with the inherent needs of China-Africa and and China-Nigeria Cooperations.

Yu expatiated that Africa comprising 54 countries and standing members of the UN is the continent with the largest concentration of developing countries and that Africa is not only an important participant in global governance, but also a major force driving global multi-polarisation.

Global south affairs experts unequivocally pointed out that the introduction of this ambitious initiative by President Xi Jinping will open more opportunities and strengthen institutions for African countries in areas of development finances, technology, cooperate digitisation, skill training, cooperate governance, agro economy.

The experts also posit that the initiative will encourage stronger representation in global affairs, in particular in south-south cooperation.

GGI as Pathway to Africa’s Self- Driven Development:

In relation to Africa and impact of the GGI on the continent, experts noted that the initiative could position African countries as players in emerging global industrial nations. It worthy to note that about 53 out of 54 African countries are both FOCAC and BRI members, while South Africa, Egypt and Nigeria are BRICS+ members and partners respectively.

In terms of economy, China as the largest trading partner of Africa had already invested heavily and committed to helping African countries develop infrastructure through Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) platforms.

Chinese investment and developmental projects cut across areas, including railway development, airport terminal construction, roads and bridges, seaports, renewable energy, green technology and climate related projects. These are opportunities that could also be accessed through GGI.

Notwithstanding, African leaders are expected to embrace the initiative as some nations often advocate for reforms in global governance, may find GGI’s emphasis on fairness and inclusion that aligned with their own demands for equity on the global stage.

Accordingly, if carefully approached, and the the initiative is aligned to continental approach, priorities such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063 could become a tool for progress.

GGI and China-Nigeria Cooperation:

Also, Nigeria as Africa’a most populous country and major economy, serves as a critical growth engine on the continent and a influential representative of the Global South. The West African nation is also a key strategic partner for China in Africa. To this end, Ambassador You said it is fair to note that China-Africa and China-Nigeria cooperation not only enjoy a solid historical foundation but also correspond to practical needs of reforming the global order.

Succinctly, experts acknowledged that Nigeria as an influential member of the global south, it could leverage on President Xi’s GGI to improve on the already existing cooperation on trade and investment.

Apparently, during President’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit and on the occasion of FOCAC summit in Beijing, President Tinubu and his host President Xi Jinping jointly announced the upgrade of China-Nigeria relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership; and the two leaders were committed to building a high-level China-Nigeria community with a shared future.

Nigeria is the largest engineering contracting partner, the second largest exporting market, the third largest trading partner and important investment destination for China.

It is reasonable to say that Nigeria and China relations have gone a long way and over the years, have rapid growth in all sectors. The two countries according to Ambassador Yu, are setting an examplary model for south-south cooperation that is aligned with President Xi’s Global Governance Initiative.

— Sale is Global South Affairs Analyst based in Abuja. (lawalmaida1@yahoo.com)

By Taiye Olayemi

The Impact Investors Foundation (IIF) says its 2025 Annual Awards for impact investing will spotlight individuals and organisations driving social and environmental progress through innovative investment models.

Ms Etemore Glover, Chief Executive Officer of IIF in a statement on Saturday, said the initiative had become a key platform for showcasing leaders who prove that entrepreneurship and finance could deliver both profit and positive change.

Glover said the 7th edition of the awards would be presented on Nov. 6 at the foundation’s Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Lagos.

She said, “Over the years, these awards have spotlighted pioneers who demonstrate that capital can and must deliver more than financial returns.

“By recognising these leaders, we aim to inspire others to embed impact into their business and investment strategies and strengthen Nigeria’s journey toward becoming a thriving impact economy.”

According to her, nominations for the 2025 edition were open to Nigerian and West African changemakers until Sept. 30.

She said, “Nominations are open to individuals and organisations across Nigeria and West Africa that can demonstrate measurable impact and a commitment to advancing inclusive, sustainable growth.

“Interested nominees should visit the IIF Awards website to review eligibility criteria and submit entries by September 30, 2025.”

Glover said since inception, the IIF Annual Awards had celebrated bold visionaries, innovative enterprises, and resilient changemakers working across diverse sectors like: healthcare, education, agriculture, gender inclusion, and financial services.

She noted that the 2024 awardees included Alitheia Capital Management, FAMASI Africa, and the Centre for Legal Support and Inmates Rehabilitation (CELSIR), all of whom were making tangible contributions to social progress.

“IIF remains committed to eliminating barriers to impact investing by building an effective ecosystem that nurtures investment pipelines, unlocks private capital, and fosters sustainable impact,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

By Salisu Sani-Idris

The National Assembly has reaffirmed its strong support for the Nigeria
Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES)
Programme.
The Information and Communications Officer of NG-CARES, Malam Suleiman Odapu, in a statement, said Mr Abubakar Kusada, Chairman, House Committee on NG-CARES, declared the support during a stakeholder’s meeting held in Abuja.
Kusada also described the programme as a lifeline for poor communities and a vital
instrument for building resilience among vulnerable Nigerians.
The lawmaker also reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment
to supporting
NG
CARES, stressing that oversight visits to states will form
part of the
partnership between the Legislature and the Executive to deliver on poverty
alleviation.
He emphasised that “no community should be left out” in the
ongoing efforts to cushion vulnerable households and businesses from
economic shocks.
According to him, NG-CARES is more than a programme, it is a lifeline. It is
about families regaining their dignity, businesses
reopening
doors of
opportunity and rebuilding communities for a sustainable
future.
” NG-CARES
stands as one of the most ambitious and people-focused initiatives, reaching
households, businesses, and communities across the 36 states and the FCT, ” he said.

The representive of World Bank, Prof. Foluso Okunmadewa, commended the
legislature’s involvement, noting that it was an encouraging sign of ownership
and sustainability.
” The legislature’s active participation gives confidence that
NG-CARES will endure as a national instrument for poverty alleviation and
resilience, even beyond donor support,” he stated.

The National Coordinator of NG-CARES, Dr Abdulkarim
Obaje, expressed appreciation to the Speaker of the House of Representatives,Tajudeen Abbas, for establishing the Committee on NG-CARES.
He stated that the establishment of the committee was a step towards complementing the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
According to him, the agenda emphasizes inchusive growth and development,
especially for the poor and vulnerable.
Present at the event were the Commissioners for Budget and
Planning from Cross River, Kebbi, Sokot0, Gombe, Ebonyi, Bauchi and
Nasarawa States.
The NG-CARES programme is a World Bank-assisted programme designed to
expand access to livelihood support and food securitv services, as well as
grants for poor and vulnerable households.
It is implemented across the 36 states and the FCT and it leverages existing government structures to deliver results for
Communities in need. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

As Muslims across Nigeria and the world commemorate Eid-el-Maulud, a day marking the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, has sent warm greetings and prayers to the Muslim faithful, particularly his constituents in Ajeromi-Ifelodun Federal Constituency of Lagos State.

OmoBarca, a philanthropist and politician widely admired for his grassroots empowerment initiatives, urged Muslims to use the spiritual lessons of the Prophet’s life as a guiding compass in promoting peace, unity, and compassion in society.

In his goodwill message, he noted that the Prophet Muhammad epitomized virtues such as truthfulness, selflessness, humility, and unwavering faith in God, qualities which, if emulated, could transform communities and strengthen the moral fabric of Nigeria.

“On this blessed occasion of Eid-el-Maulud, I felicitate with all Muslim brothers and sisters in Ajeromi-Ifelodun and across Nigeria. The life of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) is a beacon of guidance for humanity, reminding us of the values of love, tolerance, justice, and peaceful coexistence. I urge us all to reflect on these values and embody them in our daily lives,” OmoBarca said.

He emphasized that religious celebrations such as Eid-el-Maulud should go beyond rituals and merriment to inspire social responsibility, communal harmony, and renewed dedication to nation-building. According to him, Nigeria’s diversity—religious, cultural, and ethnic—should be a source of strength rather than division.

A Call for Peaceful Coexistence

Hon. Chima also used the opportunity to appeal to Nigerians to work together in addressing challenges of insecurity, economic hardship, and moral decline. He argued that the teachings of the Prophet remain relevant in modern times, particularly in fostering peace in communities experiencing tension or unrest.

“Eid-el-Maulud calls us to rise above bitterness and hatred,” he remarked. “It calls us to love our neighbors, respect one another, and work for the common good. In the face of difficulties, we must emulate the Prophet’s resilience and unwavering hope in God’s plan. I strongly believe that if we live out these values, our nation will overcome its present challenges.”

Empowerment and Community Service

Known for his philanthropic interventions in Ajeromi-Ifelodun, OmoBarca linked the spiritual significance of the day to acts of kindness and charity. He encouraged well-meaning individuals to extend hands of support to the less privileged, saying that the Prophet Muhammad’s life was defined by care for the vulnerable and generosity to the needy.

“In keeping with the spirit of the celebration, I appeal to all to remember the poor, the widows, the orphans, and those struggling to make ends meet,” he said. “Eid-el-Maulud should inspire us to share what we have, to uplift those around us, and to make sacrifices for the progress of our communities.”

OmoBarca reaffirmed his commitment to youth empowerment, education, and infrastructural development in Ajeromi-Ifelodun. He stated that his political journey is anchored on service to humanity, a philosophy consistent with the values the Prophet exemplified.

Strengthening National Unity

The House of Representatives hopeful further stressed that Nigeria needs unity more than ever, especially as citizens from diverse backgrounds navigate the challenges of modern governance. He called on leaders to rise above partisanship and sectionalism and focus on policies that improve the welfare of citizens.

“Prophet Muhammad brought together people of different backgrounds under one message of peace and justice. We, too, must embrace unity and reject all forms of division,” OmoBarca said. “Let us not allow politics, religion, or ethnicity to create walls between us. Nigeria is stronger when we work together.”

Prayers for Nigeria

In conclusion, OmoBarca offered prayers for Nigeria, asking God to bless the country with enduring peace, prosperity, and progress. He prayed for the leadership of the nation to govern with wisdom and justice, and for ordinary Nigerians to experience better living conditions.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Maulud, may God’s mercy and blessings be upon every family,” he prayed. “May He guide our leaders aright, protect our communities, and grant Nigeria a future filled with hope and opportunity.”

The Significance of Eid-el-Maulud

Eid-el-Maulud is observed annually by Muslims worldwide to honor the birth of Prophet Muhammad, who was born in Mecca in 570 AD. The occasion is often marked with prayers, lectures, processions, and community service. For Nigerian Muslims, it is both a spiritual renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the Prophet’s teachings of devotion, justice, and moral uprightness.

As Muslims in Ajeromi-Ifelodun and across Nigeria join the global community in marking this year’s Eid-el-Maulud, OmoBarca’s message resonates as both a call to faith and a reminder of the shared responsibility to build a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.

Flowerbud News/ President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Thursday, Sept. 4, to begin a working vacation in Europe as part of his 2025 annual leave.

‎Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

‎Onanuga stated that the vacation will last 10 working days.

Tinubu will spend the period between France and the UK and then return to the country.

NAN

By Taiye Olayemi

Mr Moruf Apampa, Chief Executive Officer of NSIA Insurance, has described the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA 2025) as signed by President Bola Tinubu as transformative.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, Apampa expressed confidence in the Act, saying it would reposition the insurance sector for sustainable growth.

He said the Act would enhance consumer protection by providing a Policyholder Protection Fund and setting strict timelines for claims settlement, with penalties for undue delays.

Apampa noted that the law would attract local and foreign investments by creating a more stable, transparent and trustworthy regulatory environment for operators and investors.

According to him, digitalisation would also be scaled up, as the Act encouraged adoption of technology across the insurance value chain, from licensing to claims processing.

He said this would further boost efficiency and accessibility for policyholders.

“The Act is a welcome development for an industry long plagued by low trust, poor awareness and weak uptake, with insurance penetration at only 0.4 per cent of GDP.

“This new law will also strengthen financial stability by raising minimum capital requirements for insurance and reinsurance firms, creating a more resilient and solvent industry,” he said.

Apampa described NIIRA 2025 as a long-awaited step towards a forward-looking, service-driven industry aligned with global best practices.

He emphasised that its success would rely on strict enforcement, the capacity of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), and the adaptability of market operators. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)