Day: June 20, 2024

Ethiopian coffee has been rapidly gaining traction in the Chinese market in recent years, with sales growing at a staggering rate of 27 percent annually.

This rapid growth has been significantly boosted by platforms such as the China International Import Expo and cross-border e-commerce, which serve as effective gateways for overseas brands to enter China and present numerous opportunities for Ethiopian businesses.

One standout success story is the Ethiopian coffee brand Gera, which showcased roasted coffee beans at the third CIIE. During the expo, the brand’s Yirgacheffe and Sidamo coffees were signed up to a prominent cross-border e-commerce platform, immediately available for consumers.

During the fifth CIIE, Ethiopian highland coffee with vibrant orange packaging was drawing eyes. After being showcased in an e-commerce livestream during the expo, 17,000 boxes were sold in just one evening. Online sales of Ethiopian coffee surged 300 percent during the sixth CIIE.

Traditionally, Ethiopian coffee grower
s and processors only accounted for less than 10 percent of profits in the export trade, with the majority of profits lying in distribution and sales. Leveraging the CIIE for cross-border e-commerce sales has effectively reduced trade costs, benefiting Ethiopian coffee farmers and allowing Chinese consumers to enjoy premium coffee beans at more affordable prices.

Witnessing the growing popularity of Ethiopian coffee among Chinese consumers, Tefera Derbew Yimam, Ethiopian ambassador to China, expressed great delight. He noted that China has become one of the primary importers of Ethiopian coffee. Ethiopian coffees have received rave reviews at the CIIE over the years, prompting many businesses to showcase their products at the event. ‘The embassy will continue to facilitate Ethiopian business participation in the expo,’ Yimam said.

Coffee trade is just one aspect of the trade relationship between China and Ethiopia. Products like sesame seeds and green beans from Ethiopia have also made their way to supermar
kets, stores, and retail markets in China.

At the sixth edition of the expo, Ethiopian sesame trader Duka Engineering and Trading Plc reached a preliminary cooperation agreement with Shandong’s Ruifu Sesame Oil Co Ltd, which would purchase 6,000 metric tons of sesame seeds.

In October 2023, Ethiopia and China upgraded their bilateral relationship to an all-weather strategic partnership. In a joint statement, China expressed its desire to continue encouraging and supporting Ethiopian exports to China, including agricultural and food products.

With the Chinese market serving as a key driver of Ethiopian exports, Ethiopia’s distinctive offerings are expected to make a splash at this year’s expo, presenting vast business opportunities for its enterprises.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has formally inducted 605 new members into the profession, emphasising the importance of professionalism and an end to quackery in Public Relations (PR) profession.

This was the focus at the Diamond Anniversary Special Induction of the institute in Abuja on Thursday.

The President of NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku, said that eliminating quackery in the PR profession was to ensure that only qualified and properly trained individuals speak for their organisations, whether government or private.

This, he said would enhance the credibility and effectiveness of the practice.

Neliaku noted that relationship was the hallmark of public relations, hence the need for the new inductees to maintain the highest standards of professional conduct and integrity.

He emphasised that members should avoid practices or behaviors that could harm the reputation of the Institute or the PR profession.

Neliaku stressed the importance of adhering to the highest standards of accuracy and tru
th in all professional activities.

He urged members to respect core values and uphold the ethical principles that underpin the profession.

The NIPR boss highlighted the critical role of maintaining public trust and credibility, reminding members that their actions reflected not only on themselves but also on the entire profession.

Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, Vice-Chairman, NIPR Governing Board, underscored the importance of the event, noting its adaptation to contemporary needs and its alignment with the institute’s diamond anniversary celebrations.

Dandaura highlighted several key aspects of 2024 Hybrid Induction Format which for the first time allowed greater participation, while reflecting modern event-hosting practices.

According to him, the Diamond Anniversary of NIPR held special significance as it coincided with the 60th anniversary of the institute which added historical weight to the proceedings.

‘A total of 605 new members were inducted, with 353 joining online and 198 attending in person. This r
eflects the institute’s significant growth and expanded reach.

‘Highlights of our anniversary celebration is a seminar on Public Relations, Value Orientation, and Economic Transformation, aimed at professional development.

‘We will also be hosting a Dinner and Recognition; an evening event chaired by General Yakubu Gowon, honoring distinguished icons in the field,’ Dandaura said.

He also said that the activities were designed to celebrate the NIPR’s contributions to national development over the past 60 years, while also fostering professional growth and public engagement in the field of public relations.

Mr Ali Muhammad Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), expressed delight at participating in the event and celebrating the 60th anniversary of the institute.

Ali described the occasion as a milestone and emphasised the importance of celebrating 60 years of the institute’s impactful existence.

He commended the institute for its growth and influence over the past six decades, noting
its substantial contributions to shaping public communication narratives.

Ali commended everyone involved in making the celebration a success, emphasising NAN’s alignment with the NIPR in upholding factual reporting as a cornerstone of their mission.

The NAN MD underscored the agency’s commitment to maintaining credibility and authenticity in its reporting, amidst the prevalence of fake news in today’s digital age.

Alhaji Mohammed Malagi, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, noted the dual responsibility of the newly inducted members of the NIPR.

Malagi who was represented by Mr Baba Ndace, the Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), stressed the importance of speaking positively and forcefully about the country.

He acknowledged the challenges faced by Nigeria, as recognised by the President and Commander-in-Chief, Bola Tinubu but highlighted ongoing efforts to address the challenges.

Malagi urged the inductees not to contribute to negative narratives about the nation, asserting tha
t while no country was perfect, Nigeria’s beauty and potential should be the focal points.

He underscored the critical role of the new NIPR members in collaborating with the Ministry of Information to restore trust in public discourse.

He mentioned that one of the ministry’s primary goals has been to rebuild public confidence in communication, fostering trust in institutions and media outlets.

Malagi called on the inductees to take pride in their nation and contribute to its positive image, stating that the NIPR is a platform for mentorship and professional growth.

Goodwill messages were given by representatives of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, President, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Mr Chris Isiguzo, Chairman, House Committee on Public Affairs, Rep. Rotimi Akintunde.

Others are the Nigerian Television Authority, Africa Independent Television among others.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS), has commended Kogi Government on the recruitment of 1,050 young men and women to join its fold to boost security in the state.

The Commandant-General of NHFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin, gave the commendation on Thursday in Abuja.

Osatimehin said the recruitment would go a long way in helping the government’s resolve to deal with the challenges of terror attacks, banditry, kidnapping, cattle rustling and other related criminal activities in the state.

He said that Ododo had through the action, demonstrated that he meant business when he recently gave quit notice to all criminal elements to leave the state.

According to him, the recruitment of 1.050 indigene of the state into the NHFSS will ensure that criminal elements operating within the forested regions of the state will henceforth be flushed out.

Also speaking on the development, the Deputy Commander General of NHFSS, Technical Services, Amb. John Metchie, commended the speaker and members of the Ko
gi State House of Assembly for the promptness with which they approved the governor’s bill.

Metchie described them as true representatives of the people who were committed to the security, peace and overall wellbeing of the state and its people.

He also used the opportunity to urge other state governments to emulate Kogi, Ondo, Ebonyi, Kebbi, Borno and others that are currently working with the NHFSS.

According to him, their synergy with the Nigeria Police, Nigerian Army, NSCDC, DSS and others, especially in the areas of intelligence gathering and sharing, has been a major contributing factor to the relative peace in the states.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Kogi State House of Assembly, on Wednesday, approved the recruitment, with a view to strengthening the security architecture of the state.

Gov. Usman Ododo had earlier forwarded a letter to the assembly requesting for approval of the recruitment of 50 people from each for the 21 Local Government Areas of the state.

After reading
the letter, the Speaker, Aliyu Yusuf, said it was previously resolved by the lawmakers that there was need for the recruitment hunters into the NHFSS, given the security challenges in the state and the shortage of manpower.

In a voice vote, the lawmakers unanimously approved the recruitment of 1050 hunters, adding that the payment of their salaries would be paid by the respective Local Government.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Minister of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has pledged to promote Nigeria’s diverse heritage in a bid to sustain the culture of the people.

This is contained in a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Sub-National Engagement and Partnership, Mr Abiola Abdulkareem, in Abuja on Thursday.

The minister’s promise was made at the 2024 Emirate Durbar in Ilorin and other parts of the country after the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

Abdulkareem quoted Musawa as saying that her commitment underscored the ministry’s dedication to fostering critical partnerships at both the national and grassroots levels to celebrate and elevate the country’s diverse heritage.

‘I will continue to support and partner players both at the national and grassroot levels to fashion our new ways to promote and celebrate the beauty of our diverse heritage,’ she said.

Musawa emphasised the importance of the Emirate Durbar, not only as a cultural event but as a vital symbol of Nigeria’s historical and social uni
ty.

She said that the durbar, renowned for its vibrant display of horse-riding regalia, traditional music, and dance, served as a powerful reminder of the nation’s rich and diverse cultural history.

‘The Emirate Durbar in Ilorin is a cornerstone of our cultural heritage.

‘Our ministry is committed to ensuring that such events receive the recognition and support they deserve.

‘We believe that by partnering with local and national stakeholders, we can create new avenues to showcase the beauty of our traditions and bring them to the forefront of national consciousness,’ she said.

Musawa said that the pledge was part of a broader initiative by the ministry to integrate cultural heritage into the national development agenda.

According to her, by supporting traditional events like the emirate durbar, the ministry aims to foster unity, national pride, and cultural awareness among Nigerians.

She said that the initiative would boost the local economy by attracting tourism and providing opportunities for local a
rtisans and performers.

Musawa highlighted the ministry’s strategic plan to collaborate with state governments, traditional leaders, and cultural organisations to create sustainable frameworks for cultural preservation and promotion.

According to her, the plan includes capacity-building programmes, financial support for cultural events, and the development of cultural infrastructure across the country.

‘Promoting our cultural heritage is not just about preserving the past; it’s about creating a vibrant future where our traditions can thrive and inspire future generations.

‘The Emirate Durbar is a testament to our rich cultural diversity, and we are committed to making it a landmark event on both the national and international stage,’ Musawa added.

She promised to promote cultural celebrations in Nigeria, where the beauty and diversity of the nation’s heritage will be honored and cherished.

She stated that through these efforts, the ministry would position itself as a strong player in the cultural sector
, dedicated to nurturing and promoting Nigeria’s rich heritage.

She added that the commitment would not only help to celebrate the past but also paved way for a culturally-enriched future in the country.

She commended the organisers for a great job and the wonderful hospitality experienced at the event.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

A coalition of human rights groups and the Human Rights Advocacy Crusaders (HRAC) have urged the Police and other security agents in Rivers to maintain neutrality and impartiality in the ongoing local government crisis.

Pastor Jerry Nicholas, the group spokesperson, on Thursday in Abuja said that taking sides could escalate the crisis.

He added that it could lead to further violence and clashes between supporters of different parties, resulting in deaths and destruction of property.

According to Nicholas, the expiration of the tenure of local government chairmen and other officials is a constitutional matter, hence security agents should help to maintain the peace in the state.

‘The law is clear: the 1999 Constitution and Section 9(1) of the Rivers State Local Government Law No 5 of 2018 provide for a 3-year tenure for local government chairmen, with a possibility of a second term,’ he said.

He urged the security agents to prevent violence and maintain peace while allowing the democratic process to unfol
d, and ensuring that the rule of law is upheld.

Nicholas urged the former chairmen and others who are still eligible to seek re-election into the councils whenever elections are scheduled by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.

He reiterated that security agents must remained neutral and not take sides with any party.

It would be recalled that after the expiration of the tenure of local government chairmen, vice and councillors, Gov. Siminalayi Fubara ordered heads of administration in the 23 local government areas to take over the administration of the local government areas

He subsequently swore in caretaker chairpersons in accordance with the law.

However, some local government chairmen have insisted on holding on to their offices.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), says it has concluded its 120-day Regulatory Reform Accelerator Action Plan, which will significantly improve Nigeria’s business environment.

The Special Adviser to the President on Ease of Doing Business, Jumoke Oduwole, said the reforms concentrated on eight key indicators, including reviewing and updating service level agreements.

Oduwole said others are transparency reforms, efficiency reforms, entry and exit (Airport) reforms, port operations reforms, national single window project facilitation, agro-export reforms, and manufacturing for export reforms.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative is a 90-day programme, which started on Feb. 20 and terminated on May 20.

NAN also reports that the Vice President and Chair of PEBEC, Kashim Shettima, granted a 30-day extension period to enable Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAS) to intensify their reform efforts.

According to Oduwole, this is due to the sub-optimal p
erformance of Ministries, MDAs and the sluggish completion of reform.

The extension period ends at midnight on June 19.

‘These reforms operationalise earlier codified provisions in the Business Facilitation Act 2022 and directly impact the productivity and competitiveness of Nigeria’s economy.

‘With the success of this final sprint, vice-president Shettima is set to host the inaugural PEBEC Townhall Meeting on June 28.

‘This is where the results of the Accelerator and deepening the PEBEC’s regulatory reform mandate will be discussed.’

She said the successful implementation of these reforms marks a significant step towards making Nigeria a more business-friendly environment.

According to Oduwole, the event will bring together PEBEC Members, heads of over 50 federal government agencies and their reform teams, representatives of the organised private sector, and other stakeholders.

‘PEBEC was established in July 2016 to oversee interventions to enhance Nigeria’s business climate. The council is crucial to
President Bola Tinubu’s 8-point renewed hope agenda,’ she said.

She said the third cohort of the council, inaugurated in November 2023, comprises 24 members from various levels and arms of government.

Oduwole said with these reforms, PEBEC aims to elevate Nigeria’s global business rankings, attract foreign investments, and drive sustainable economic growth.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria