News
Probe Of Cabals Hindering Local Refineries, Coalition Urges Tinubu
Kitano Akinbode
The Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organizations (NICOCSO) has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently launch an investigation into cabals impeding the progress of local refineries and perpetuating the importation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
The coalition held a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, 6th November 2024, to address the important national issue.NICOCSO’s National Coordinator, Benjamin James, who addressed journalists expressed deep concerns over the actions of a powerful group prioritizing self-interest over the nation’s economic well-being.
As contained in the press release issued to journalists by NICOCSO’s National Spokesperson, Segun Adebayo, it highlighted the detrimental impact of fuel importation on Nigeria’s economy, emphasizing the billions lost in foreign exchange annually and the vulnerability to global market fluctuations.
The coalition condemned the sabotage of local refining investments, particularly efforts like the Dangote Refinery, which aim to achieve fuel independence but face obstruction from vested interests.
NICOCSO called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and caution the NNPC cabal against actions that could lead to economic crises.
The coalition urged for a transparent probe into the cabal’s activities and proposed a policy shift mandating the sale of Nigerian crude oil to local refineries in Naira. This, they argued, would empower local investors, preserve foreign reserves, and strengthen the economy while stabilizing fuel prices domestically.
In a final plea for public support and accountability, NICOCSO called on all Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the press to stand together in demanding transparency and fairness in the fuel sector.
The coalition emphasized the importance of breaking the monopolistic grip of those hindering progress and building a Nigeria that prioritizes economic sovereignty and local industry empowerment.
As Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads, NICOCSO remains hopeful that President Tinubu’s administration will take decisive action to hold accountable those obstructing the nation’s economic growth.
The coalition believes collective advocacy and leadership would help Nigeria pave the way for a prosperous and self-reliant future.
Creative Industry
Nigeria and UAE Strengthen Ties, Explore New Opportunities in Tourism and Culture
Joel Ajayi
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, has emphasized the importance of empowering Nigeria as a gateway country to the black global community, highlighting the UAE’s support in achieving this goal.
The Minister made this known in Abuja on Wednesday when she met with the United Arab Emirates’ ambassador to Nigeria H.E. Salem Saeed Musabbeh Al Mahyoub Al Shamsi, to discuss ways to strengthen tourism and cultural ties between the two countries.
She congratulated Sheikha, the Secretary-General of the UN Tourism, on her historic appointment as the first female Secretary-General, noting that she is opening doors for women, inclusivity, and the power of the global south.
“It is very important for us now, as a country and as a gateway country to the black global community, to empower ourselves in a way that gives us a certain level of independence. Tourism now is power.
“We all know the importance of Tourism globally but we need to have a more curative relationship with the United Arab Emirates. We want to empower ourselves in a way that gives us a certain level of independence,” Minister Musawa said.
Minister Musawa highlighted Dubai’s success in transforming tourism and the potential for alignment between Nigeria and UAE in tourism and culture.
Earlier, H.E. Salem Saeed Musabbeh Al Mahyoub Al Shamsi welcomed the proposals and expressed commitment to strengthening ties.
“The UAE has become one of the top five industrial countries so let us find a common interest in culture and tourism to build a stronger relationship. I invite the Ministry to Abu Dhabi to see the development in Dubai to explore specific areas of cooperation in tourism and culture,” the Ambassador said.
The discussion also touched on Sheikha’s upcoming visit to Nigeria and potential cooperation in culture, tourism, and creative industries.
The UAE plans to invest in Nigeria’s film, music, and fashion industries. The Minister invited UAE officials to explore cooperation areas and assured them of Nigeria’s commitment to deepening ties.
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