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Reps Committee Apologizes Over UTME Error, Assures Nigerians of Full Probe

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The House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies has formally apologized to Nigerians over the recent error that disrupted the conduct of the April/May 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) administered by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

Speaking during a world press conference on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Abuja, the Committee’s Deputy Chairman, Hon. Aboku Abonsizibe Oforji, who represents Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, described the incident as “an avoidable human error” and extended heartfelt sympathy to the affected candidates and their families.

“This is an unprecedented situation in the history of JAMB. We express our deepest sympathy to the students impacted and sincerely apologize to all Nigerians on behalf of JAMB,” Hon. Oforji stated.

He commended JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, for swiftly owning up to the error and apologizing publicly, but stressed that the Committee would pursue accountability and reform.

“We must now demand accountability—not tomorrow, but today. Education is the backbone of our national progress, and we cannot afford another breakdown of this nature,” he said.

Responding to questions from journalists, Hon. Oforji acknowledged that lapses in oversight may have contributed to the error. He confirmed that the Committee has begun preliminary investigations and will intensify oversight across all six geopolitical zones to improve examination monitoring.

“Our findings so far indicate it was a human error—not a system failure or technical malfunction. However, we are committed to ensuring that those responsible are identified and held accountable,” he added.

On suggestions by some lawmakers that the entire UTME should be cancelled, Hon. Oforji said such a decision would depend on the outcome of the investigation. He noted that JAMB had already acted to mitigate the damage by organizing a retake for affected candidates.

“JAMB quickly directed a retake of the compromised exam. That alone indicates there was no malicious intent. We’re investigating the matter thoroughly, and Nigerians can be assured we will do what is right,” he said.

When asked if Nigerians should simply “forgive and forget,” given the emotional and academic impact of the error, Hon. Oforji replied: “We are not asking anyone to forget. What we are doing is apologizing and assuring Nigerians that serious corrective actions are underway.”

He reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to full transparency and promised to provide public updates once investigations are concluded.

“This is a painful episode—one we would never wish on even our fiercest critics. Our thoughts are with the candidates and families affected. We also appreciate Nigerians for their patience and understanding as we work to fix the system,” he concluded.

Reps Pass Bill to Establish National Ear Centre in Bende Amid Surge in Hearing Loss Cases

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The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed for second reading a bill proposing the establishment of a National Ear Centre in Bende, Abia State, as part of efforts to tackle the growing public health crisis of hearing loss in Nigeria.

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to Establish the National Ear Centre, Bende for the Prevention, Management and Cure of Ear Defects and Diseases; and for Related Matters,” was jointly sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, alongside six other lawmakers.

In his presentation, co-sponsor Hon. Kama Nkemkanma described hearing loss as a national development issue, not just a medical concern, calling for urgent federal intervention to assist the millions of Nigerians affected by auditory health conditions.

He pointed out that ear-related diseases and impairments affect all demographics—ranging from children hindered in learning to speak, to the elderly grappling with age-related hearing decline—yet access to specialized care remains limited.

“The proposed centre will significantly improve access to expert diagnosis and treatment, enhance training for ENT specialists, and serve as a centre of excellence in auditory healthcare,” Nkemkanma stated.

Citing statistics from the World Health Organization, he noted that over 1.5 billion people globally suffer some form of hearing loss, with Nigeria bearing a considerable portion of that burden. He lamented that the country currently relies on just one National Ear Care Centre in Kaduna, which is overwhelmed and under-resourced.

“This bill does not seek to duplicate but to complement existing services. The new centre in Bende will serve as both a referral hospital and a training institution, boosting capacity to meet rising national demands,” he said.

He stressed that hearing loss cuts across ethnic, religious, and regional lines, and called on lawmakers to support the bill as a statement that access to ear care is a fundamental right.

“No child should be left behind in school due to an untreated ear infection. No adult should lose livelihood because of a preventable or manageable hearing condition,” he added.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, who presided over the session, put the bill to a voice vote. It passed without opposition and has now advanced to the committee stage for further legislative action.

FCT EXCO Approves N2.6bn for Waste Management, Infrastructure, Streetlight Upgrades

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— 19 New Projects Cleared to Accelerate Abuja’s Urban Development

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Committee (EXCO) has approved a total of 19 new projects aimed at upgrading waste management, urban infrastructure, and street lighting systems across Abuja, with contracts valued at approximately N2.6 billion.

The approvals were granted during the 14th EXCO meeting chaired by the FCT Minister and held in Abuja on Tuesday.

Speaking to journalists after the session, Mr. Chidi Amadi, Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to fast-tracking infrastructural development across the territory.

“By the special grace of God, this is the 14th EXCO chaired by the Honourable Minister himself. A total of 13 memos were presented, three were stepped down for technical reasons, and 19 were critically reviewed and approved,” Amadi said.

He noted that while detailed reforms in land administration were presented by the Director of Lands, further announcements will be made separately to allow for proper clarity and communication. “It’s too crucial to rush,” he said.

On the environmental front, Chief Felix Amechi Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), disclosed that three major environmental and sanitation service contracts received EXCO approval.

These include:

Operation and maintenance of the Apo Erector sewage facility,

Extension of services at Wupa Basic Sewage Treatment Plant,

Solid waste collection and management across 40 locations in the FCT for an additional two months.

Obuah said the approvals underscore the administration’s drive to enhance environmental sanitation, sewage processing, and waste management in the capital city.

Also speaking, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), said seven FCDA memos were approved, covering critical infrastructure and public safety projects.

Key among them is the upgrade of outdated streetlights along the 14-kilometer, 10-lane Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (Ring Road 1) from Maitama through Gudu-Garki. “These lights were installed nearly two decades ago. We are replacing them with a hybrid lighting system to boost visibility and road safety,” Dauda explained.

Other approved projects include:

Construction of a new magistrate court in Jabi, replacing a previously proposed Maitama site,

Fencing and access control at 12 road interchanges to curb criminal activity and open defecation,

1.7-kilometre road and drainage works in Durumi District near the Apostolic Church,

Comprehensive infrastructure in Mabushi District, including roads, drainage, streetlights, and water supply,

Complete renovation and technical upgrades at the DSS headquarters,

Erosion control measures to protect a major pipeline from the Lower Usman Dam through Gwagwalada—already completed by CGC Construction Company.

“These projects are designed to strengthen the city’s resilience, enhance security, and improve residents’ quality of life,” Dauda said.

The FCT EXCO’s latest decisions reflect the Minister’s renewed push to transform Abuja into a modern, efficient, and sustainable city through strategic investments in public infrastructure and service delivery.

Gumel Emirate Turbans Galadima as Madaki Gini of Gumel

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The Director of Development Control at the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, has been formally turbaned as the Madaki Gini of Gumel by the Gumel Emirate Council in recognition of his distinguished service and contributions to urban planning and public administration.

The colourful turbaning ceremony was held in Abuja on Monday, within the AMMC Conference Room, Wuse Zone 6, with the AMMC Coordinator, Hon. Felix Amechi Obuah, presiding over the symbolic presentation on behalf of the traditional institution.

Describing the conferment as a well-deserved honour, Obuah lauded Galadima’s leadership, professionalism, and humility. “This is a welcome development. It will inspire him to continue his impactful and exemplary service not just within the FCTA, but to the nation at large,” he said.

Obuah praised Galadima’s unwavering commitment to discipline, fairness, and urban development, qualities he described as consistent with the expectations of a traditional titleholder.

The title of Madaki Gini, conferred by the Gumel Emirate Council under the leadership of His Royal Highness, Ahmad Muhammad Sani II, holds a significant position within the emirate’s traditional hierarchy. The emirate, located in Jigawa State, was founded around 1750 by Dan Juma and remains one of the few Hausa kingdoms that withstood incorporation into the Sokoto Caliphate after the 19th-century Fulani jihad.

Galadima hails from Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State, and is an accomplished urban planner. He attended Government College, Katsina-Ala, and later earned a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from Benue State University.

A seasoned professional with over 23 years of experience within the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), he has served in various capacities at both the Department of Development Control and the Satellite Towns Development Agency.

He was appointed Acting Director of Development Control by the then FCT Minister, Muhammad Musa Bello, on August 10, 2016, and has since led several high-level committees, including the Abuja Master Plan Restoration Task Team, the Review of Revoked Titles, and the Change of Land Use Committees.

Galadima is also internationally certified and a member of various professional bodies in the field of urban development and physical planning.

With this latest traditional recognition, the new Madaki Gini of Gumel now bears both administrative and cultural responsibilities, bridging modern governance and traditional heritage.

Northern SDP Chairmen Disown Anti-NWC Statements, Warn Against Tribal Divides

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…We didn’t authorize any statement

Northern Chairmen of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have disowned statements allegedly issued on their behalf concerning the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), describing them as false, unauthorized, and aimed at creating division.

In a press release dated May 20, 2025, and signed under the banner of the Northern SDP Chairmen Forum (NSCF), the leaders categorically stated that they were not present at the said NWC meeting and had no involvement in any comments issued from it.

“We have no authority to interfere in the affairs of the National Working Committee,” they stated. “Anyone who made such a statement on our behalf is acting maliciously and unethically.”

The signatories Hon. Nuradeen Bisalla (FCT Chairman, representing North Central), Hon. Ali Shattima (Kano State Chairman, representing North West), Hon. Adamu Modibbo (Gombe State Chairman, representing North East), and Barr. B. Y. Yarima (Chairman, Northern Chairmen Forum) reaffirmed their loyalty to the national chairman and warned against exploiting regional sentiments to stir conflict within the party.

“It is inappropriate for us to issue statements urging the NWC to take action against any national leader, such as the Public Relations Officer,” they noted.

The forum emphasized its commitment to party unity, cautioning against any perception of tribalism. “We believe in the cohesion of the party across the country and do not want to be perceived as tribalistic,” the statement read.

They called on the national chairman to personally intervene and guide the party toward reconciliation.

“Our hope is that they will unite the party and resolve any misunderstandings by adhering to the rules and regulations of the party. North and South are one entity under our national chairman,” the chairmen declared.

The intervention comes amid internal tensions in the SDP, with the Northern chairmen’s position aimed at calming the situation and reinforcing national unity within the party’s ranks.

APC National Summit a Chance to Unify Leaders, Assess Progress — Progressive Voters’ Forum

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The Progressive Voters’ Forum (PVF), a pro-All Progressives Congress (APC) support group, has described the upcoming APC National Summit as a timely opportunity for party leaders to unite, evaluate the party’s performance, and strategize for the future.

The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for initiating the summit, which is scheduled to hold on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The theme of the summit is “Renewed Hope Agenda: The Journey So Far.”

In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Coordinator, Dr. Olusegun Kenneth, the PVF urged delegates to attend with open minds and engage in meaningful dialogue that would further strengthen the party ahead of future elections.

“This summit offers a unique platform for APC leaders to review our progress as the ruling party, forge a united front, and deliberate on practical solutions to national challenges,” the statement read.

Dr. Kenneth called on party members to use the summit as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu’s administration, adding that many of the government’s achievements remain underreported or ignored by opposition parties.

Expected attendees at the summit include President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, APC governors and their deputies, National Assembly members under the party’s banner, and former presidents affiliated with the APC.

“With May 29 marking two years since President Tinubu assumed office, the summit comes at a perfect time to highlight the administration’s milestones in infrastructure, economic recovery, and national development,” Dr. Kenneth said.

He emphasized the need for inclusivity, calling on the summit to accommodate diverse voices and new entrants into the party.

PVF also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that foundational reforms over the past two years are beginning to yield results, including a decline in inflation and commodity prices.

“The summit is not just for the APC, but for all Nigerians,” the statement added. “We believe it will help dispel misinformation, showcase progress, and rally support around the president’s vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria.”

FG Commences Construction of Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy Permanent Site

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The Federal Government has officially commenced construction of the permanent site for the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy, Alkaleri (BOGAA), marking a significant step toward enhancing human capital development in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), performed the groundbreaking ceremony over the weekend, commending the Bauchi State Government for initiating the academy in alignment with national objectives.

According to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Nneamaka Okafor, the Minister reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to maximize all available oil production platforms and fast-track key projects, including the Kolmani Integrated Development Projects.

“Our goal is to ensure that every productive oil platform contributes meaningfully to national development,” Lokpobiri said, emphasizing the Tinubu administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape into a catalyst for industrialization, employment, and economic growth.

He lauded the Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy as a visionary investment that will train the skilled workforce needed to sustain and expand the oil and gas industry. The Minister also acknowledged the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) for its ongoing contributions to technological and human capacity building, expressing optimism for a strong collaboration between PTDF and BOGAA to drive sustainable development.

In his remarks, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, thanked the Federal Government for its support, especially the release of N17 billion to boost oil exploration activities and fund the academy’s construction. Of this amount, N6 billion has been allocated specifically for the academy project.

Describing the institution as a “hub for skills development and innovation,” Governor Mohammed stressed that the academy will not only serve Bauchi but will have far-reaching benefits for the entire country by equipping youths with vocational and technical expertise.

He called on host communities to cooperate with contractors and stakeholders to ensure smooth and timely execution of the project.

The Bauchi Oil and Gas Academy was conceptualized in 2021 following the discovery of commercial quantities of oil and gas in the Kolmani River region. The academy is expected to provide critical training to support ongoing exploration and future operations, while also empowering young Nigerians to actively participate in the energy sector and contribute to national prosperity.

Wike to Establish Bus Terminals in Gwagwalada, Bwari to Curb Insecurity, Ease Transport in FCT

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to construct new bus terminals in Gwagwalada and Bwari as part of efforts to improve security and streamline public transportation within the Territory.

The new terminals will complement ongoing developments in Mabushi, Kugbo, and the Central Business District, providing residents of satellite towns with safe and organized access to the city center.

Wike disclosed this during an inspection of a 12-kilometre road project connecting the Ushafa community in Bwari Area Council.

“We’ve agreed to establish bus terminals in Gwagwalada and Bwari, allowing people to board buses or taxis directly to Mabushi, Kugbo, or the central area,” the Minister stated. “This will help reduce ‘one chance’ incidents and restore confidence in the public transport system.”

He noted that once the terminals are operational, residents will no longer have to rely on unsafe roadside pickups. “If anyone still chooses to stand by the roadside after these are provided, it’s no longer the government’s fault,” he added.

Wike also revealed that several key projects across the FCT are nearing completion and will be commissioned in June, in line with the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

“By the first week of June, commissioning will begin, God willing. Some projects will be inaugurated by Mr. President himself, especially in the city and satellite towns,” he said.

He expressed hope that the activities will commence after the Eid-el-Kabir festivities, and disclosed that he has invited President Tinubu to personally commission some roads in the satellite areas.

“This way, residents can see and appreciate the development being brought to them under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Wike said.

Emphasizing balanced development, the Minister said the Tinubu-led administration is focused on bridging the urban-rural divide.

“We are not concentrating only on the city. Satellite towns are a priority too. In Ushafa alone, we’ve completed 12 kilometres of road. Yesterday, we were in Gwagwalada and Kwali, and similar progress is evident there,” he noted.

He likened the successful execution of these projects to excelling in a major exam: “We made promises, and to the glory of God, we are delivering.”

Wike also highlighted the recent upgrade of the International Conference Centre (ICC) as a demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to world-class infrastructure.

According to him, improved facilities, roads, and lighting in satellite communities will ease pressure on the city as more people opt to stay closer to home.

“From here to the city is just 35 minutes. Once streetlights are in place, this area will be transformed. People won’t feel the need to relocate to the city when all they need is available where they live,” he concluded.

The FCT Administration, he affirmed, remains committed to inclusive development across all districts of the capital territory.

Wike Hails Community Cheers as Streetlights Illuminate Gwagwalada-Pai Road

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is no longer a political promise but a visible reality across communities in the nation’s capital.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the A2 road project linking Gwagwalada to Pai, Wike said the enthusiastic reception by residents is a testimony that government is delivering on its promises.

> “Indeed, the Renewed Hope Agenda is at work. That’s not my statement—it came from a resident of Gwagwalada,” the Minister said. “We’re happy when the people are happy. It means our efforts are hitting the mark.”

The newly constructed road, equipped with modern streetlights, stands out as a symbol of government presence even in remote parts of the FCT. Wike emphasized that infrastructural development in rural areas was a deliberate strategy to promote inclusiveness and economic growth.

> “This road shows that development is not just for the city center. When a rural road like this has streetlights, it means we’re serious. I thank God Almighty that this has been achieved,” he said.

During a visit to the Aguma Palace, the Minister noted the energy of the crowd that welcomed the project with loud cheers.

> “What we witnessed there was genuine excitement—from market women to elders. That’s what we mean when we say hope is working,” Wike remarked.

Leadership, Delivery, and No Excuses

Wike praised President Tinubu’s leadership, attributing the FCT’s progress to a clear vision from the top.

> “There’s no magic. When you have the right leadership, you get results. Everyone working with you will be motivated, and nobody has an excuse to fail,” he said. “The President has given us all the support we need. Now it’s on us to deliver.”

Quality Jobs, Happy People

Asked about the quality of work being delivered by contractors, Wike responded with candor.

> “You paid money, and you’re getting value—of course you’ll be happy. Why wouldn’t I be? No one would be pleased with poor-quality jobs,” he said, noting that rural projects are being monitored for durability and standard.

Education, Health Also on Track

While some residents expressed concern that sectors like education and health may not be receiving equal attention, the Minister assured that progress is being made across the board.

> “We’ve renovated over 60 schools and we’ll take you there after commissioning the roads,” he said. “No sector will be neglected. But roads must come first—they are the backbone of development.”

He stressed the importance of road infrastructure in linking communities to schools, hospitals, markets, and enhancing security.

> “Without roads, where do you go? Roads enable every other sector. Even in fighting insecurity, streetlights and motorable roads act as deterrents. When people see streetlights in remote areas, they think twice before committing crime.”

Wike reiterated that the Renewed Hope Agenda is action-driven, not rhetoric—and every part of the FCT will feel its impact.

Digital Mining Cadastre Impresses ECOWAS Delegation, Nigeria Sets Standard for Regional Integration

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Nigeria’s cutting-edge Electronic Mining Cadastre Plus (EMC+) system has earned high praise from a visiting delegation of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), positioning the country as a regional leader in digital mining governance and transparency.

The delegation, led by Mr. William Badieo of the ECOWAS Commission, was in Abuja as part of ongoing efforts to establish a unified regional Geo-Extractive Observatory and Cadastral System aimed at harmonising data and improving governance across West Africa’s extractive sectors.

Nigeria’s Model of Excellence

Speaking during the visit, Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastre Office (MCO), Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, described the engagement as a moment of pride for Nigeria.

“This visit is not just a validation of our work at the MCO, but an honour for Nigeria as a whole,” Nkom said. “Our journey from irregular, paper-based records to a fully digitized, web-based system has placed Nigeria at the forefront of mining transparency and governance in Africa.”

He explained that the EMC+ system, operational since November 1, 2022, enables real-time online management of mineral titles, improves investor access, and enhances operational efficiency.

“A harmonized regional system will eliminate fragmentation,” he noted. “Investors will no longer need to adapt to different systems in every country. Nigeria’s progress can serve as a catalyst for widespread adoption across ECOWAS.”

Driving a Continental Vision

Nkom acknowledged support from international partners including the African Development Bank and long-time consultant Mr. Pai Ozora, noting their involvement signaled growing confidence in Nigeria’s mining reforms.

He also credited regulatory milestones like the 2011 Mining Regulations as foundational to the country’s success. “This is a technically driven sector. Our systems are built by engineers and geologists—not politicians—and must reflect technical precision and integrity,” he emphasized.

The DG confirmed that the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, was fully briefed and supportive of the initiative. “The Minister is deeply committed to regional collaboration and may even join us impromptu because of his passion for this vision,” Nkom revealed.

ECOWAS Applauds Nigeria’s Leadership

For the ECOWAS delegation, Nigeria’s achievements offer both inspiration and a working template for replication.

“We’ve moved beyond theory,” said Mr. William Badieo. “Our first feasibility study showed that a regional system is viable. We’re now reviewing the second phase to ensure each member state meets the minimum operational standard before integration.”

He noted that the ECOWAS Harmonised Development Policy for Mining and Hydrocarbons, adopted in 2024, mandates all member states to align with regional digital platforms. “Nigeria is far ahead, and that’s why we’re here. Today, we witnessed a practical, functional, and exemplary system in operation.”

Regional Experts Echo Praise

Also speaking during the visit, Mr. Eugene Norman, Head of the Mining Cadastre Office of Sierra Leone, emphasized the importance of peer learning.

“As West African countries, we’re working towards a harmonized mining and geo-observatory system,” Norman said. “Nigeria’s experience provides a clear roadmap. It’s vital that we learn what works and what challenges exist so we can replicate success across the region.”

He added, “When all member states reach this level, we amplify our regional capacity, boost investor confidence, and enhance transparency.”

Madu Hassan Fika, Chief Geologist at Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum, described the EMC+ system as a game-changer.

“My impression was simply marvellous. I never expected to see such technological advancement. This visit has changed my perception of the depth of innovation happening at the MCO,” he said.

Fika expressed optimism that Nigeria’s leadership in digital cadastral systems would drive the success of the regional integration project. “When the ECOWAS system launches, it will highlight Nigeria’s capabilities to the world and attract greater investment.”

He concluded by thanking the MCO leadership and staff for their hospitality and forward-thinking innovation. “We appreciate what you’re doing here. God bless you all.”

A Path Toward Regional Unity

The visit marked a pivotal step in ECOWAS’ efforts to foster sustainable development and good governance in the extractive sector. With Nigeria setting the pace through its digital transformation, the region moves closer to a future where data harmonization, transparency, and investment-readiness become the standard across all member states.