Tony Elumelu shines bright

For those who are familiar with Dr. Tony Onyemachi Elumelu CFR, his recent strategic ventures come as no surprise. Known affectionately as TOE, he exemplifies the spirit of impactful leadership, motivated by a genuine passion for excellence and a strong network of connections. Elumelu thrives on making a significant difference in various sectors, leveraging both his impressive personal attributes and a deep commitment to bettering the lives of others.

Despite his considerable wealth and success, Elumelu remains insatiably driven. For many individuals his age, the natural inclination may be to retire and enjoy the fruits of their labor. However, Elumelu stands apart. His entrepreneurial spirit propels him to continuously explore new opportunities across borders—traveling from coast to coast and continent to continent—while actively seeking to expand the investment horizons of his diverse business portfolio. His ventures encompass a variety of industries, where he remains deeply engaged and hands-on, consistently working to build an enduring business empire that not only supports his legacy but also contributes positively to the economy and society at large.

A hallmark of Elumelu’s leadership style is his selflessness and profound belief in teamwork. He actively fosters a culture where collective success is celebrated, recognizing the critical role each team member plays in achieving organizational goals. His commitment to human development is further evidenced through the initiatives undertaken by the Tony Elumelu Foundation. This esteemed foundation is dedicated to mentoring young entrepreneurs throughout Africa, empowering them by providing seed capital and crucial support to help them launch their businesses.

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Elumelu’s vision extends to eradicating generational poverty, incentivizing young people to become self-reliant, and reducing their dependency on governmental support for their economic advancement reason why he gives out $5,000 capital seed to those mentored through his foundation. He is a fervent advocate for equipping industrious youth with the tools they need to foster innovation and drive transformative changes that can have a global impact. Elumelu’s prominence on the global stage has not gone unnoticed.

Recently, he was invited to Paris, France, during the state visit of President Bola Tinubu, at the behest of President Emmanuel Macron. During this prestigious visit, Elumelu showcased his steadfast dedication to fostering partnership between Nigeria and France through constructive dialogues with key figures in the French business community. His participation in a roundtable discussion aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s growth through mutually beneficial collaborations underscored his invaluable contributions to the discourse.

In a landmark accomplishment, Elumelu successfully negotiated a significant Memorandum of Understanding with the French government, an agreement witnessed by both President Bola Tinubu and President Macron. This memorandum signals the impending launch of a fully licenced operation of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) in Paris, which represents a key strategic development for UBA. This expansion is poised to elevate UBA’s standing as a formidable financial institution, allowing it to compete on an international scale—not just within Africa, but also extending its reach to major global financial hubs such as London, the United Arab Emirates, and New York. Through these efforts, Tony Elumelu continues to shine as a leading figure in the private sector, demonstrating that true success is defined not merely by personal wealth, but by the lasting impact one can create for future generations and the global community at large.

Policy blueprint for a new era of African innovation, by Doron Avni

The dawn of the AI age presents a unique opportunity for Africa. With the right policies, the continent can experience accelerated socio-economic progress.

According to a recent study by Public First, AI could increase the Sub-Saharan African economy by over $30 billion annually and is already revolutionizing various African sectors. For instance, AI-powered ultrasound checks are accessible in remote areas, AI combined with satellite imagery helps assess village electrification, and AI and cloud connect youth with jobs via mobile search.

As the AU Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, H.E. Dr. Amani Abou-Zeid wrote in the introduction to the recently adopted Continental AI Strategy: AI “is seen as a driving force for positive change, socio-economic transformation, and cultural renaissance.”

Strong government policy is crucial for unlocking Africa’s AI potential, and new research confirms this critical link. The Google-commissioned AI Policy Blueprint for Africa report by Nextrade Group, which surveyed over 2,000 African students, businesses, and organizations, reveals a striking connection between policy readiness and AI adoption.

The report demonstrates a clear correlation: African countries with established, pro-AI digital policy frameworks also have significantly higher AI adoption rates than their peers with less mature policy frameworks. This is especially timely as governments across the continent are actively working on AI strategies at the national level, with some already having adopted them. This data underscores the vital role governments play in creating an environment where AI can flourish.

To guide this crucial government leadership, the AI Policy Blueprint report provides a practical roadmap. Building upon the foundational recommendations from Google’s AI Sprinters report, this blueprint offers specific policy guidance across four key pillars: infrastructure, skills development, investment in innovation, and responsible AI regulation.

For each pillar, the blueprint outlines specific policy actions African nations can take to accelerate AI adoption and maximize its benefits for their citizens. The report was designed to help policymakers in the task of translating the exciting vision of the recent AU Continental AI Strategy into practical policies aimed at achieving it.

One of the most important recommendations the report makes is on data readiness. The blueprint emphasizes the importance of ensuring access to high-quality datasets that reflect Africa’s diversity. Governments can achieve this by opening up non-sensitive public data for AI development, promoting data transfer across borders, and encouraging the use of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs).

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The blueprint also stresses the importance of harmonized data protection frameworks to ensure privacy and security as AI systems are deployed. Crucially, the blueprint advocates for a “cloud-first” approach in the public sector, where governments prioritize cloud-based solutions for data storage and service delivery.

By migrating to the cloud, governments can effectively manage and process the vast amounts of data required for AI, unlocking its potential to improve public services and address critical challenges. The report, scanning the global horizon for AI policies, mentions Singapore as a prime example, where the government has issued guidelines that allow for greater flexibility in using personal data for AI development while still protecting privacy.

This call for government leadership is echoed by the very people who stand to benefit most from AI. The report reveals a groundswell of excitement among African businesses, especially fast-growing firms, with many seeing AI as “absolutely transformative” for their operations and predicting significant revenue gains—as much as 20% annually. In fact, almost 90% are already applying AI to research, data analysis, marketing content creation, and even coding.

Moreover, a majority of Africans believe AI can boost productivity and accelerate national development. These individuals and businesses expressed hope that governments will proactively support this progress by ensuring AI is used safely and responsibly, equipping young people with essential AI skills, and helping small businesses leverage this powerful technology.

Governments must also lead by example, actively adopting AI within their own operations to demonstrate its value and build public trust.

The report found overwhelming support for this approach, with over 80% of respondents agreeing that governments should invest in AI to improve public service delivery.

The adoption of AI by governments not only improves government efficiency but also inspires confidence in AI across all sectors, encouraging wider adoption.

At Google, we are committed to being a steadfast partner for African governments, businesses, and individuals on their journey to capture the vast opportunities presented by AI. We believe in the power of technology to drive progress and improve lives, and we are dedicated to supporting Africa’s digital transformation.

Our recent announcements, including a $5.8 million commitment to AI skills development and the expansion of speech technology to include 15 more African languages, demonstrate our ongoing investment in the continent’s future.

We are committed to working with African governments as they embrace AI, not just as policymakers but as active users, demonstrating its transformative potential to their citizens and the world. We are confident that by working together, we can unlock Africa’s immense potential and build a future where AI empowers everyone.

  • Doron Avni is the VP, Public Policy & Government Affairs, Emerging Markets, Google

Gov Okpebholo swears in three judges ignored by Obaseki

 Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo on Monday swore in three High Court judges recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC), but ignored by Godwin Obaseki’s administration.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Obaseki ignored the three judges when he swore in five out of the eight recommended judges by NJC in May.

The immediate past governor advanced no reason for his action.

Okpebholo, in his address at the event in Benin, said the exercise was in fulfillment of the pledges made during his inaugural speech to look into the case and right the wrong of yesterday.

“Eleven months after the recommendation of the NJC, only five of those recommended were sworn-in as judges by the immediate-past administration, leaving out three, even when they had all been cleared and recommended by the same NJC.

“No one should be discriminated against, marginalised or hated for personal reasons, or on account of not having a godfather.

Read Also: Okpebholo suspends Edo civil service recruitment

“As judges of the state High Court, they are expected to uphold high standard of conduct, ensure fair dispute resolution, uphold rights of citizens, and bring culprits to justice.

“During my swearing-in ceremony as Governor of Edo State on November 12, 2024, I acknowledged the critical role of the judiciary under the doctrine of separation of powers.

“Today we are gathered here to strengthen that role for the judiciary.

“The National Judicial Council in June 2023 recommended eight persons for appointment as Judges of the Edo State High Court,” he said.

The three judges are Maureen Osa, Okundamiya Godwin Jeff and Edoghogho Eboigbe.

Responding on behalf of the trio, Osa applauded the governor for the opportunity given them to serve as judges in Edo.

She applauded the governor for making their swearing-in a reality, just three weeks into office.

The new judge prayed for a successful tenure for the governor.

“We assure you that we will dispense justice without fear or favour,” she said.

(NAN) 

Oyakhilome’s Rhapsody of Realities now in 8,123 languages

The President of the Loveword Ministry, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, says  the organisation has printed its daily Bible devotional, Rhapsody of Realities, into 8,123 languages and 4,000 dialects.

Oyakhilome  said on Monday in Lagos that the aim was to enable more people to  have access to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

He made the disclosure at the Rhapsody of Realities Reachout World Day Conference held at the Loveword’s Waterfalls Centre Oregun, Ikeja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference  was to recognise  Dec. 2 as a day for the organisation to reach many people  simultaneously with the gospel.

He described the gospel as light to the world saying, “With the myriad of challenges in the world, the spread of the gospel can foster peace  and halt challenges.”

Read Also: 32 visa-free countries Nigerians can visit this Christmas

According to him, the organisation aims to reach out to eight billion people globally with the Word of God through the devotional.

The  Leader of the Reachout Global Committee, organisers of the campaign, Rev. Tom Amenkhienan, said that the organisation had mobilised Church workers, ministers, organisations and partners to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ through distribution of  the devotional.

“Nations’ economies are failing, there is too much anguish in the land but there is light at end of the tunnel, and that light is the gospel of Jesus Christ.

“With the historical event of reaching out to the world simultaneously today with the gospel through the prayer book, God will  begin to change those global anxieties to peace,” he said.

Amenkhienan said that people could download a copy of the book online on www.rhapsodyofrealities.org.

In his remarks, a member of the committee, Pastor Lanre Alade, said that the devotional  had been printed in braille and sign language to reach the visually and hearing impaired.

(NAN)

32 visa-free countries Nigerians can visit this Christmas

Christmas is a time for celebration, and what better way to celebrate than to explore the world? As a Nigerian passport holder, you have the privilege of traveling to several stunning destinations without the hassle of obtaining a visa. To make your holiday planning seamless, we’ve compiled a list of 32 visa-free countries Nigerians can visit this Christmas.

Whether you’re dreaming of pristine beaches, bustling cities, or serene landscapes, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into your options!

Why Travel Visa-Free?

Traveling visa-free offers the flexibility to explore new destinations without the stress of lengthy visa processes. It saves time, reduces costs, and ensures a smoother travel experience. For Nigerians looking to make the most of their Christmas holidays, these visa-free destinations provide the perfect opportunity to unwind, reconnect, and create unforgettable memories.

Here are 20 Visa-Free Countries for Nigerians in Africa

Africa is brimming with rich cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant communities. Here are the visa-free countries on the continent:

1. Benin – Experience the historic sights and vibrant markets.

2. Burkina Faso – Perfect for cultural enthusiasts.

3. Cape Verde Islands – Relax on pristine beaches.

4. Chad – A haven for desert lovers.

5. Comoros – Discover exotic marine life.

6. Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) – Explore Abidjan’s bustling city life.

7. Djibouti – A paradise for adventure seekers.

8. Ghana – Enjoy the warm hospitality and vibrant festivals.

9. Guinea – A great choice for ecotourism.

10. Guinea-Bissau – Famous for its serene islands.

11. Liberia – Explore Liberia’s pristine beaches.

12. Madagascar – A biodiversity hotspot.

13. Mali – Ideal for history buffs.

14. Mauritania – Perfect for a desert getaway.

15. Niger – Discover the Sahara’s majestic dunes.

16. Rwanda – Known for its mountain gorillas and clean cities.

17. Senegal – A mix of culture, history, and beach vibes.

18. Seychelles – A tropical paradise.

19. Togo – Vibrant markets and natural beauty.

20. Uganda – Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.

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    12 Visa-Free Countries for Nigerians Outside Africa

    For those who wish to venture beyond Africa, these destinations welcome Nigerian travelers without a visa:

    1. Barbados – Enjoy a Caribbean Christmas in style.

    2. Dominican Republic – A mix of history, beaches, and nightlife.

    3. Fiji – Escape to this dreamy island nation.

    4. Haiti – Discover vibrant culture and history.

    5. Iran – Experience rich Persian heritage.

    6. Kiribati – A quiet retreat for peace seekers.

    7. Micronesia – Perfect for diving and island hopping.

    8. Niue – Known for its stunning coral reefs.

    9. Palau Islands – Explore its untouched beauty.

    10. Samoa – A peaceful Pacific destination.

    11. Tuvalu – Escape to this lesser-known paradise.

    12. Vanuatu – An idyllic island getaway.

      5 Travel Tips for Nigerians Visiting Visa-Free Destinations

      1. Check Entry Requirements
      While these countries are visa-free, some may require additional documents such as proof of accommodation, return tickets, or sufficient funds.

      2. Plan Your Itinerary
      To make the most of your trip, research the top attractions, local cuisine, and cultural experiences in advance.

      3. Stay Safe
      Ensure you have travel insurance and familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers and safety guidelines.

      4. Respect Local Cultures: Adhere to the customs and traditions of the host country for a warm reception.

      5. Travel Light: Pack only essentials, and make sure to include clothing suitable for the local climate.

      Why Choose These Destinations for Christmas?

      These visa-free destinations offer diverse experiences to suit every traveler’s taste. From the golden beaches of Barbados to the wildlife reserves of Uganda, you can immerse yourself in new cultures, enjoy scenic views, and experience Christmas like never before.

      Plus, the absence of visa requirements means you can plan a spontaneous trip without bureaucratic hurdles, making your festive season even more magical.

      Conclusion

      Traveling visa-free as a Nigerian passport holder opens up a world of possibilities, especially during the festive season. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous safari, a cultural immersion, or a relaxing beach holiday, these 40 destinations offer something special for everyone.

      So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and make this Christmas one to remember by exploring the beauty of these visa-free countries.

      Hajia Zubaida Umar: A Visionary Transforming Emergency Management In Nigeria

      Leadership in the realm of disaster management requires more than just administrative acumen; it demands empathy, vision, and a relentless drive for innovation. Hajia Zubaida Umar, the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), has epitomized these qualities in her transformative leadership. Since assuming office, she has redefined disaster response and preparedness in Nigeria, leaving a legacy of resilience, innovation, and inclusion.

      Redefining Emergency Preparedness:

      Under Hajia Zubaida Umar’s leadership, NEMA has prioritized proactive disaster management. Recognizing the increasing frequency and severity of natural and man-made disasters in Nigeria, she spearheaded initiatives to enhance early warning systems. Through collaboration with meteorological agencies and research institutions, NEMA now provides timely alerts, helping communities prepare for potential disasters such as floods, droughts, and epidemics.

      Her focus on capacity building at the grassroots level has been particularly noteworthy. By organizing training programs and workshops for local disaster response teams, she has empowered communities to take charge of their safety, reducing their vulnerability to emergencies.

      Strengthening Collaboration and Partnerships

      One of Hajia Zubaida’s key strategies has been fostering collaboration between government agencies, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Through strategic partnerships with bodies like the United Nations and the African Union, NEMA has gained access to additional resources, expertise, and funding. These alliances have significantly bolstered Nigeria’s disaster management framework, ensuring a more coordinated and efficient response to emergencies.

      Domestically, she has worked tirelessly to bridge the gaps between federal, state, and local governments, creating a cohesive network for disaster management. This integrated approach has streamlined operations, reduced response times, and improved outcomes for affected communities.

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      Innovation in Emergency Response

      Hajia Zubaida Umar has also embraced technology to modernize NEMA’s operations. The adoption of drone technology for disaster assessment and mapping, the use of geospatial tools for risk analysis, and the development of digital platforms for real-time communication during emergencies are hallmarks of her tenure. These innovations have improved the agency’s ability to predict, monitor, and respond to disasters with precision and efficiency.

      A People-Centric Approach:

      Perhaps the most striking aspect of Hajia Zubaida’s leadership is her unwavering commitment to inclusivity. She has prioritized the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, in disaster response plans. Initiatives such as gender-sensitive shelters and specialized training for women in disaster management have set a benchmark for inclusivity in emergency management.

      Her empathy extends to displaced persons, where she has championed policies to improve living conditions of internally displaced persons (IDP) By focusing on health care, education, and livelihood program.

      Challenges and Triumphs

      Hajia Zubaida’s tenure has not been without challenges. From budgetary constraints to the increasing complexity of disasters fueled by climate change, her leadership has been tested repeatedly. Yet, her ability to navigate these obstacles with pragmatism and determination has earned her widespread respect and admiration.

      Legacy of Resilience and Vision

      Hajia Zubaida Umar’s transformative leadership has redefined disaster management in Nigeria. Her emphasis on preparedness, innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity has strengthened the nation’s capacity to withstand and recover from emergencies. More importantly, she has inspired a new generation of leaders and responders

      Kidnappers abduct three in Anambra as police, JTF initiate operation to rescue victims

      The Anambra Police Command and the security Joint Task Force (JTF) have launched a rescue operation for the three persons abducted on Tuesday at the Innoson showroom, Anambra.

      In a statement on Wednesday in Onitsha, the  command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, who confirmed the incident,   said that the victims were kidnapped in the evening at the Innoson motorcycle showroom on Owerri Road in Nnewi.

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      He said that the command had initiated operation for their rescue and had visited the scene of the incident and obtained useful information to assist the investigation.

      He urged anyone with useful information that could aid the investigation to come forward to the command’s headquarters, Awka, or the nearest police station.

      The command’s spokesman also said that persons with information on the abduction could call the toll free emergency number 112 or 07039194332.

      (NAN) 

      Yahaya Bello in court as judge frowns at rowdy supporters

      Former Governor of Kogi, Yahaya Bello, billed to be arraigned at the FCT High Court, on Wednesday, took over crowd control of the court room when Justice Maryann Anenih walked out.

      Justice Anenih, who came in to take the plea of the former governor and his co-defendants, rose abruptly and announced not to come back until there is sanity in the court room.

      Shortly after the judge left the court room, Bello who sat in the front of the court room stood up and moved to the surging crowd.

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      He immediately directed his followers and sympathisers to vacate their seats and leave the court room.

      His actions doused the tension without resistance, as the followers left the court room one after the other.

      To ensure sanity in the court room, the former governor sat at the entrance to the court room and ensured that non of his followers disobeyed the order of the court,

      Meanwhile, Kemi Pinheiro, SAN is leading the Federal Government legal team for the arraignment while Joseph Dauda, SAN, leads the legal team of the former governor in the 16-count charges.

      (NAN)

      Singer Portable thrills participants at Abuja Int’l Carnival

      Energetic Nigerian singer Habeeb  Badmus, popularly known as Portable, on Monday   night thrilled  participants  at the closing ceremony of the 2024 Abuja International  Carnival.

      Participants, including state delegates, government functionaries and music lovers, drawn from  different parts of the country, were held to series of electrifying performances by the “ZaZoo Zehh” crooner  at the Eagles Square.

      The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the carnival, which held from Nov.23 to 25, with the theme,” Carnival of Renewed Hope: a Pledge to My Country”, had  participating troupe  from across different  states in Nigeria .

      It featured a range of activities, including floats and street shows, musical concerts, traditional food competition, boat regatta, Durbar, children’s Fiesta and art exhibitions at different locations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

      The closing ceremony was a night of glitz and glamour in colourful and festive ambience, which characterises carnivals, as it featured indigenous fashion show  and parade  across the arena  by participating teams.

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      The concert started after the results of the competitive events in the carnival were announced ,with River State emerging  ‘Overall Best State’ winner.

      Dance floor for the night was opened with series of performances  by upcoming artistes before portable came on stage.

      The “Brotherhood” crooner was then ushered on stage amidst ovation by participants, especially his fans, and then the ‘party just started.’

      He performed some of his hit tracks, including  ‘Pay Me My Money’, ‘Ema Joke Dada’, ‘Clear’, among others, amid cheers from  fans.(NAN) 

      Food prices rose in October – NBS

      The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) says prices of beans, eggs, bread, rice, and other food items witnessed significant price increases in October 2024.

      The NBS said this in its Selected Food Prices Watch report for October 2024 released in Abuja on Tuesday.

      The report said that the average price of 1kg of brown beans increased by 254.23  per cent from N790.01 recorded in October 2023 to N2,798.50  in October 2024.

      “On a month-on-month basis, 1kg of brown beans increased by 2.19  per cent in October  from the N2,738.59 recorded in September 2024.”

      It said that the average price of medium-sized Agric eggs (12 pieces) increased by 140.21 per cent on a year-on-year basis from  N1,112.22 in October 2023 to N2,671.60 in October 2024.

      “On a month-on-month basis, the eggs  increased by 7.42 per cent from the N2, 487.04 recorded  in September 2024.”

      The report said that the average price of sliced bread increased by 103.76  per cent on a year-on-year basis from N760.82 in October 2023 to N1,550.24 in October  2024.

      “On a month-on-month basis, the price increased by 1.44 per cent from the N1,528.19  recorded in September  2024.”

      In addition, the average price of 1kg of local rice rose by 137.32  per cent on a year-on-year basis from N819.42 recorded  in October 2023 to N1,944.64 in October 2024.

      “On a month-on-month basis, it increased by 1.56 per cent from N1,194.77 recorded in September  2024.”

      Also, the report said that the average price of 1kg of boneless beef increased by 98.73   per cent on a year-on-year basis from N2,948.03 in October 2023 to N5,858.58 in October  2024.

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      “On a month-on-month basis, the price increased by 3.99 per cent from the N5,633.60 recorded  in September 2024.”

      On state profile analysis, the report showed that in oc  2024, the highest average price of 1kg of brown beans was recorded in Bauchi at N3,750.00,  while the lowest was recorded in Yobe at N1,749.52.

      It said that Niger recorded the highest average price of medium size Agric eggs (12 pieces) at N3, 450.00, while the lowest was in Adamawa at N2,050.00.

      The NBS said that the highest average price of sliced bread was recorded in Rivers at N1,867.14, while the lowest price was recorded in Yobe at N960.07.

      According to the report, Kogi recorded the highest average price of 1kg local rice (sold loose) at N2,693.41, while the lowest was reported in Benue at N1,267. 25.

      Analysis by zone showed that the average price of 1kg of brown beans was highest in the South-South at N3,274.39, followed by the North-Central at N2,990.02.

      “The lowest price was recorded in the North-East at N2,294.29.”

      The North-Central and South-East recorded the highest average price of medium size agric eggs(12 pieces) at N2,915.58 and N2,879.24, respectively, while the lowest price was in the South-West at N2,472.94.

      The report said that the South-South recorded the highest average price of sliced bread at N1,829.25, followed by the South-East at N1,665.56, while the North-East recorded the lowest price at N1,360.85.

      The NBS said also that the South-East and the South-West recorded the highest average price of 1kg of local rice(sold loose)  at  N2,146.08 and N2,011.05, respectively.

      “The North-West recorded the lowest price of 1kg of local rice (sold loose) at N1,763.62.”

      The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that in July, the federal government in a bid to address the incessant increase in food prices and ensure food security granted a 150-day duty-free import window for food commodities.

      The suspended duty tariffs and taxes will be on the importation of certain food items across the land and sea borders which include maize, cowpeas, wheat, and husked brown rice.

      However, experts have suggested more sustainable measures such as addressing the issue of insecurity, foreign exchange and transportation costs to address the soaring food prices and ensure  food security.

      (NAN)