News
RMAFC Commissioner Confered With Prestigious Traditional Title
Joel Ajayi
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) today, Thursday 13th March 2025, played host to a delegation from Sakaba kingdom who came to present the certificate of conferment of the prestigious traditional title of Innar Sakaba to Barr. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba Haruna mni, the Federal Commissioner representing Kebbi State in RMAFC .
The title was conferred by the Chief of Sakaba, Alhaji Muhammad Ladan, in recognition of her distinguished service and contributions to the development of her community and the nation.
Hon. Rakiya, a trailblazer in her field, had previously been conferred with the title of Garkuwan Matan Zuru by the Emir of Zuru, Maj Gen (Rtd) Muhammad Sani Sami, in acknowledgment of her leadership and impact. She had also served as the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Kebbi State .
The event, held at the RMAFC Headquarters in Abuja, was chaired by the Chairman of Commission, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu OFR, who was represented by Hon. Ismail Muhammad Agaka, the Federal Commissioner representing Kwara State.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairman, Hon. Agaka said, “Today, as Hon. Rakiya is being conferred with the distinguished title of Innar Sakaba,we recognize not only her professional excellence but also her historical contributions. It is worth noting that this is not the first occasion in which she has been recognized for her outstanding achievements. Her trajectory is a testament to perseverance and excellence.”
“Regardless of how high we ascend in life, our roots remain our foundation. Just as a tree bears fruit only when its roots are strong, so too must we remember and honor where we come from. Hon. Rakiya has been a worthy ambassador for her people, from Sakaba to Zuru, Kebbi State, the Northwest, and beyond.”
The Fed. Commissioner representing Jigawa State, Hon. Hauwa Umar Aliyu extolled the sterling qualities of Barr. Rakiya T. A. Haruna mni. She described her as a diligent and committed member of the Commission who had been a good representative of her people .Other members of staff who spoke at the occasion also eulogised the remarkable legacy of Barr. Haruna, while describing her as a leader whose contributions continue to shape good governance and development in Nigeria.
In her vote of thanks, Hon. Rakiya Tanko Ayuba Haruna mni expressed her gratitude for the honor, reflecting on its significance.
She said, “This recognition is not only a great personal honor but also a profound responsibility which I accept with humility and deep appreciation. Sakaba Chiefdom has a rich history of leadership, unity, and cultural heritage, and I am truly privileged to be associated with this great institution.”
“I pledge to uphold the values and responsibilities that come with this title, serving with dedication, integrity, and commitment to the progress and prosperity of our people.”
The event was attended by dignitaries from Kebbi State, Hon. members and staff of RMAFC, traditional rulers, and well-wishers.
Foreign news
Diplomatic Community in Nigeria Joins Italian Envoy in National Day Celebration
By Joel Ajayi
It was a vibrant evening of joy, connection, and cultural celebration as the Acting Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, hosted members of Nigeria’s diplomatic community in Abuja to commemorate Italy’s National Day, la Festa della Repubblica.
Held in the heart of Nigeria’s capital, the event was a memorable gathering marked by laughter, heartfelt exchanges, and a shared appreciation for the enduring ties between Italy and Nigeria.
In his address, Mr. Foti described the occasion as a time to reflect on the core values that define Italy: liberty, democracy, justice, and the enduring creativity and resilience of its people.
“It is a day to celebrate our rich history, our unparalleled cultural heritage, and our contributions to art, science, and innovation,” he said. “But beyond Italy, today we also celebrate the strong and growing bonds between the Republic of Italy and the Federal Republic of Nigeria — our economies, our cultures, and above all, our people.”
The ambassador emphasized the depth of the bilateral relationship, recalling that diplomatic ties between Italy and Nigeria were established on February 20, 1960. He noted that since the 1970s and 1980s, Nigeria has become a second home for many Italians who have contributed significantly across various sectors.
“We are proud to be part of this welcoming and vibrant society,” he said. “I have personally witnessed the dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and warmth of the Nigerian people, as well as their hospitality toward the Italian community.”
Looking ahead, Mr. Foti expressed optimism about the future of Italy-Nigeria relations, pointing to untapped opportunities for deeper economic cooperation, technological collaboration, and cultural and academic exchange.
“Nigeria is a cultural powerhouse, a leader in Africa and globally in art, literature, and film,” he remarked. “Italy, with its deep-rooted cultural legacy, is eager to expand its engagement with Africa, and particularly with Nigeria.”
He acknowledged the growing Nigerian interest in Italian culture — from fashion and design to cinema and tourism — while noting that Italy hosts the third-largest Nigerian diaspora community globally, after the United States and the United Kingdom.
The ambassador also highlighted the countries’ cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, peace and security, migration, and human trafficking. Both nations are signatories to the Paris Agreement and active participants in global policy dialogues.
“Our relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding,” he noted. “We see this in our economic ties, cultural exchanges, love for football, and the increasing number of Nigerians who study and travel to Italy, as well as Italians drawn to Nigeria’s rich history and culture.”
He pointed out the many shared qualities between Italians and Nigerians, from strong family values and communal bonds to a vibrant fashion industry and a dynamic film sector.
“We are both historically migrant societies that have achieved success abroad while keeping close ties to our homeland,” Mr. Foti said. “We share humor, resilience, and a deep appreciation for life’s ironies.”
Addressing the issue of stereotypes, he cited renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, saying: “The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the support of Nigerian authorities and all who attended the celebration.
“On behalf of the Italian government and the people of Italy, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone who joined us. Your presence is a testament to the strength of our friendship and our shared future.”
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