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Nigeria, Vietnam Seal Strategic Cashew Alliance To Boost Global Trade And Value Addition

Maryam Aminu

In a groundbreaking move set to redefine the global cashew industry, Nigeria and Vietnam have entered into a strategic partnership to revolutionize cashew production, processing, and trade between both nations.

The landmark agreement sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) and the Vietnam Cashew Association (VINACAS) was signed during the 14th VINACAS Golden Cashew Rendezvous 2025, held from October 26–28 in Hanoi, Vietnam, as part of activities marking VINACAS’ 35th anniversary celebration.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku, National President of NCAN, described the partnership as a major milestone in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation and non-oil export drive. According to him, the MoU will strengthen bilateral trade, encourage technology transfer, and boost competitiveness in the global cashew market.

“This partnership will enhance value addition through modern processing technologies, promote diversification into cashew-based beverages and by-products, and create more jobs for rural communities,” Dr. Ajanaku stated.

He revealed that Nigeria exported $420 million worth of cashew to Vietnam in 2025, expressing optimism that the collaboration would further enhance production efficiency and expand market access for Nigerian products.

A key highlight of the Hanoi conference was the recognition of Kogi Cashew as the most nutritious cashew in the world, a feat that reinforces Nigeria’s rising prominence in the global cashew trade.

Dr. Ajanaku noted that the new partnership will leverage this recognition through innovation, research, and continuous quality improvement.

Under the MoU, both nations will promote trade in raw and processed cashew, facilitate the exchange of processing technologies, encourage joint investments, and advance sustainable farming practices. Vietnam’s technical expertise and advanced machinery, he added, will play a crucial role in expanding Nigeria’s processing capacity and driving economic diversification.

To ensure sustained implementation, both associations agreed to establish a Joint Working Committee that will monitor progress and report outcomes annually.

The signing was witnessed by top Nigerian officials and private sector stakeholders, including Muhammed Tukur Usman (Director, FDA-FMAS), Mr. Babagana Musti (NEXIM Bank), Jude Osilama, Evidence Iyamu, Mr. Victor Omofaiye (DG, KOSCEPA), Alh. Abu Muhammed Kabir (NCAN Financial Secretary), and Tchidi Okike Zacchaeus (Merchant Farmer).

Currently, Nigeria ranks among Africa’s top cashew producers with over 500,000 metric tonnes annually, exporting mainly to Vietnam and India. With the renewed partnership, NCAN projects that Nigeria’s cashew export earnings could exceed $500 million annually, unlocking new opportunities across the agricultural value chain.

NiMet Breaks New Ground with Electric Vehicles at Nigeria’s International Airports

Emmanuel Daudu

In a bold move that signals a new era of green innovation in the nation’s aviation sector, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has deployed electric vehicles (EVs) for airside operations across five international airports Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu.

This landmark initiative marks the first-ever deployment of EVs in Nigeria’s aviation history, positioning NiMet as a frontrunner in the Federal Government’s drive for sustainable, low-carbon solutions under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Each vehicle, capable of traveling up to 200 kilometers on a single charge, will operate within a network supported by dedicated charging stations at the airports, eliminating reliance on fossil fuels while improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

NiMet described the innovation as a strategic leap toward climate-smart operations, ensuring smoother logistics, reduced fuel dependency, and lower maintenance costs. The move is also expected to improve service reliability, timeliness, and energy efficiency in the agency’s weather and aviation support functions.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to sustainability, operational excellence, and environmental responsibility,” said Professor Charles Anosike, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet.

The agency noted that the adoption of EVs will cut carbon emissions, minimize noise pollution, and advance Nigeria’s carbon credit goals, while aligning with international sustainability benchmarks.

Under Professor Anosike’s leadership, NiMet continues to strengthen its role as a regional leader in climate innovation, demonstrating that environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand with operational advancement.

Oyetola: South-South Region Holds the Key to Unlocking Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Potential

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has spotlighted Nigeria’s South-South region as the nation’s gateway to maritime prosperity, describing it as the heartbeat of the country’s emerging blue economy revolution.

Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) led by Ms. Usoro Akpabio, Dr. Oyetola underscored that the region’s long coastline, strategic ports, and vast aquatic wealth make it central to Nigeria’s vision of becoming a global maritime hub.

“The South-South is the anchor of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy future. Its coastline and ports are strategic national assets, and we are determined to modernize and maximize their potential,” he stated.

The Minister revealed that under the Federal Government’s Port Modernisation Programme, key seaports in the region Warri, Rivers, Onne, and Calabar Ports are set for major upgrades, including dredging to a minimum depth of 16 metres to accommodate larger vessels. The initiative, he said, will lower cargo handling costs, attract global shipping lines, and boost Nigeria’s competitiveness within the Gulf of Guinea.

Dr. Oyetola also announced ongoing plans to develop new deep seaports in the region, including the Agge (Bayelsa), Ibom (Akwa Ibom), Bakassi (Cross River), and Bonny (Rivers) Deep Seaports projects expected to transform the logistics landscape, stimulate industrial growth, and create thousands of jobs.

Beyond shipping and trade, the Minister highlighted marine tourism as a major growth frontier for the region. He encouraged state governments to leverage the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to develop tourism assets that can attract both domestic and foreign visitors.

“A thriving coastal tourism sector can generate sustainable income for communities, empower women and youth, and boost regional economies,” Oyetola noted.

He further emphasized that the presence of maritime training institutions such as the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, and the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, reinforces the South-South’s pivotal role in producing skilled manpower for the nation’s expanding maritime industry.

On food security, Dr. Oyetola assured that the Ministry is taking deliberate steps to reduce fish importation by promoting aquaculture and expanding domestic fish production with the South-South serving as the nation’s fishing hub.

He urged Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, adding that the recently approved National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy provides a clear roadmap for sustainable ocean governance, investment growth, and wealth creation.

Earlier, the SSDC Managing Director, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, lauded the Minister’s commitment to repositioning the maritime sector, expressing the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry on blue economy projects. She also proposed a joint working team to coordinate and accelerate project delivery across the region.

The delegation included Engr. Chika Chinda, Rt. Hon. Larry Odey, and Hon. Tabitha Salah, members of the SSDC Board.

FG to Empower 7 Million Youths with Dual Vocational and Digital Skills-Olawande

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has announced an ambitious plan to train and empower at least seven million Nigerian youths with dual vocational and digital skills under its renewed drive to build a more innovative and self-reliant generation.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany, at his office in Abuja.

Olawande said the initiative reflects the government’s firm commitment to equipping young Nigerians with industry-relevant skills that foster employability, innovation, and entrepreneurship, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Our goal is not just to produce job seekers but to nurture innovators and entrepreneurs who will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” the Minister stated.

The Minister revealed that the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA) is leading the effort through strengthened partnerships with German and Nigerian institutions to expand access to vocational and digital training nationwide.

He also announced that the Ministry will soon unveil a digital learning platform, modelled after global platforms such as Coursera, to make skill acquisition easier and more accessible to youths across Nigeria.

According to him, the Ministry’s youth development strategy is built on a tripartite framework of Support, Empowerment, and Protection, ensuring every young Nigerian can thrive in a globally competitive environment.

“This collaboration is not just about programmes; it is about building the future of our young people. Together, we can ensure that Nigerian youth are empowered, innovative, and globally competitive,” he added.

Pictorial Caption: 3rd from left: Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande; 1st from right: Dr. Matthias Leder, CEO, IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Germany; 2nd from left: Alhaji Lai Mohammed, Former Minister of Information and Culture; 1st from left: Marina Franca Leder, in a group photograph during a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister in his office in Abuja.

In his remarks, Dr. Matthias Leder, Chief Executive Officer of the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry, reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to supporting Nigerian youth through vocational training and legal labour migration initiatives.

He lauded the Federal Government’s focus on youth skills development, noting that 300 Nigerian youths have already been selected for the Legal Labour Migration and Dual Vocational Training Project, to be honoured in Lagos on November 12, 2025, after completing their A1 German language level.

Dr. Leder also praised the German dual training model, where apprentices earn from their first day, and called for deeper cooperation between Nigerian and German institutions to expand opportunities for young Nigerians and strengthen bilateral relations.

NiMet, NITDA Forge Strategic Partnership to Deepen ICT Integration in Weather and Climate Services

Emmanuel Daudu

In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s technological backbone for climate and weather forecasting, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) have agreed to collaborate on harnessing the power of ICT for enhanced data management, innovation, and service delivery.

The partnership took shape on Monday, November 3, 2025, when the Director General of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, paid a courtesy visit to the NITDA headquarters in Abuja, where he was received by Mr. Kashifu Inuwa, Director General of NITDA. The meeting focused on fostering collaboration and exploring strategic areas of synergy between the two federal agencies.

Welcoming the NiMet team, Mr. Inuwa described the partnership as “long overdue,” but noted that “it’s better late than never.”

He underscored the transformative power of information technology across all professions and reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to deepening the adoption of digital solutions in critical sectors of the economy.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Anosike highlighted that Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is “essential to modern meteorological services,” powering accurate weather forecasting, data collection, analysis, and dissemination.

He emphasized that the collaboration will enhance the credibility and efficiency of NiMet’s services across key sectors such as aviation, agriculture, the blue economy, and disaster risk management.

Showcasing NiMet’s growing innovation capacity, Anosike revealed that the agency’s in-house team had developed METEOWIZ, a pioneering weather solution designed and built entirely by NiMet staff the first of its kind in Africa. He noted that with NITDA’s support, this innovation could be standardized and even exported as a proudly Nigerian technological product.

Both agencies agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize the partnership, focusing on joint capacity-building initiatives, data management systems, digital transformation projects, and technological innovations. A joint technical committee will also be established to identify and execute collaborative projects aimed at integrating advanced IT solutions into meteorological operations.

UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Congratulate Management of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria and Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat world wide on the NUC approval of commencement of Academic Activities

According to the letter that was received from the Office of Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission Abuja Nigeria dated 4th of November,2025 for take off the academy activities for The Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria the First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has congratulated The Management of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria and Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat world wide on behalf of their First Conventional University in the world

Minaret University Ikirun is a private faith-based institution located in Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria. , it’s the first university to be founded by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community globally. The university offers a range of undergraduate programs across two faculties:

Faculty of Science and Computing, with departments including:
- Computer Science
- Cyber Security
- Data Science
Faculty of Management and Social Sciences, with departments including:
- Accounting and Economics
- Business Administration, Management & Marketing
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Minaret University aims to provide entrepreneurial and pragmatic education, focusing on:

Moral discipline
Practical entrepreneurship training
Research excellence
Community service

The university’s vision is to produce well-rounded graduates who are job creators, ethical leaders, and committed to serving humanity. With a strong commitment to community development and faith-based education, Minaret University is poised to make a positive impact in Nigeria and beyond ¹ ² ³.

You might want to explore more about Minaret University’s programs, admission requirements, or campus life.

The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu The First Dean Faculty of Science and Computing of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria was excited with New development

Who Is Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu?
A distinguished Nigerian scholar in computer science and information technology, Prof. Aremu has garnered international acclaim, notably as the First African UNESCO Laureate, a distinction formally recognised by UNESCO’s Central & South America Centre (Reg. Arg. 22/LT‑19; ISBN 978‑1571‑7412‑6). His accolades include the Global Golden Medaland Certificate from UNESCO for outstanding achievements in education, creativity, and intellectual innovation.

He currently holds several high-profile academic and leadership roles, among them:

Chairman, World Accreditation Commission, USA (affiliate of UNESCO)

Chief Patron, Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council (UNACCC)

Founding Trustee and Professor at Minaret University, Ikirun, Nigeria

Chairman, Board of Trustees, Kings & Queens Medical University College, Ghana

Chairman, Accreditation Panels at Nigerian universities
Prof. Aremu continues to champion global education quality and intellectual partnerships across multiple continents

BREAKING: Herdsmen Attack Anwule-Oglewu in Benue State, Several Feared Dead or Missing

A devastating attack has been carried out by suspected herdsmen in Anwule-Oglewu, Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers invaded the community, shooting and killing several people. Many residents have fled their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring communities.

Eyewitness Account:

“We just spoke to them now, they say they brought one of my brothers down. My brother himself told me they invaded our community. Today, they are in our community, they started from the bushes, and now they are inside the community. Everybody is running for their own life presently.”

Details of the Attack:

The attack occurred as farmers were working in their fields.
Several people are feared dead or missing.
The community is currently under attack, with residents fleeing for their lives.
The motive behind the attack is yet to be ascertained.

Response:

The situation is currently fluid, with many residents seeking refuge in nearby communities. The authorities have yet to comment on the incident.

This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.

NiMet, NITDA Forge Strategic Partnership to Deepen ICT Integration in Weather and Climate Services

Emmanuel Daudu

Welcoming the NiMet team, Mr. Inuwa described the partnership as “long overdue,” but noted that “it’s better late than never.”

Ibrahim, Daudu Laud General C.G. Musa Rtd., Describe Him as One of Nigeria’s Best Chiefs of Defence Staff

Maryam Aminu

Two prominent public figures, Dr. Sani Ibrahim, the Ag. Chairman of an international organization, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization and Dr. Emmanuel Daudu, the Author of the book titled; “The Military Iconic Leader of Our Time”, have commended the former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), for his exceptional leadership, patriotism, and selfless service to the nation during his tenure as Nigeria’s top military officer.

In a joint statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the duo described General Musa as one of the best Chiefs of Defence Staff Nigeria has ever produced”, applauding his commitment to national unity, security, and human development.

According to them, General Musa’s tenure was characterized by courageous decisions, strategic reforms, and a deep sense of compassion that transformed Nigeria’s security landscape. They noted that his passionate service to the country played a pivotal role in stabilizing key regions, which in turn contributed to the modest economic stability still being experienced in several parts of the nation today.

“General Musa’s love for the people and his dedication to the protection of lives and property were evident in the way he personally drove major military operations that led to the recovery of several communities long occupied by insurgents, bandits, and other criminal groups,” the statement read.

Dr. Ibrahim and Dr. Daudu further emphasized that General Musa’s leadership was not only about military strength but also about empathy and people-centered governance. They lauded his consistent efforts to rebuild trust between the Armed Forces and local communities, describing his era as one that restored hope and confidence in Nigeria’s defence institutions.

They concluded by extending their warm wishes to the retired General, expressing optimism that his experience and wisdom will continue to serve the country in new capacities.

“We wish General C.G. Musa (Rtd.) the very best in his future endeavours. His legacy of courage, integrity, and patriotism will remain a guiding light for generations of Nigerians,” the statement added.

Oyetola Calls on Southwest States to Build Marine Tourism Corridor Along Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway…Says the Blue Economy Holds Key to Regional Prosperity, Job Creation, and Cultural Revival

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, has urged leaders across Nigeria’s Southwest to harness the immense economic potential of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway by developing a marine tourism corridor that integrates coastal infrastructure, resorts, and heritage attractions.

Speaking at the Southwest Citizen-Government Engagement Summit held in Akure, Ondo State, on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, Oyetola described the coastal highway as a transformative national project that will redefine trade, tourism, and connectivity across Nigeria’s coastline.

“The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is an economic artery that connects opportunity, innovation, and prosperity,” the minister said in his presentation titled ‘The Impact of Marine and Blue Economy on Nigeria’s Development: Focus on the Southwest Region.’

He called on Southwest governors to complement the Federal Government’s infrastructure drive by investing in coastal tourism facilities, hospitality ventures, and marine-linked enterprises that can position the region as a global tourism hub.

According to him, the highway will open new economic corridors from Lagos through Ogun and Ondo to the eastern seaboard, catalysing job creation, SME growth, and regional trade expansion.

Oyetola also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his “visionary leadership” in securing the expansion of Nigeria’s continental shelf by 16,300 square kilometres, extending the nation’s maritime boundary by about 20 nautical miles in some areas. He described the achievement as “a major milestone in Nigeria’s maritime sovereignty,” with vast implications for offshore investment, deep-sea exploration, marine research, and renewable ocean energy.

He emphasised that the development of the blue economy presents the Southwest with opportunities for private sector participation in shipbuilding, marine logistics, fisheries, and non-oil exports, noting that such ventures could help diversify the economy and enhance regional prosperity.

In addressing safety on the waterways, Oyetola urged state governments to phase out wooden boats and enforce the mandatory use of life jackets, noting that the adoption of fibre-reinforced boats would enhance safety, sustainability, and local craftsmanship through indigenous boat-building initiatives.

“This is our moment to build a vibrant blue economy that creates jobs, attracts investment, and celebrates the cultural and natural heritage of our coastal communities,” he declared. “If we harness it wisely, the sea will not divide us it will unite and prosper us.”

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to making the blue economy a central pillar of national development, adding that collaboration between federal and state governments is crucial to achieving a modern, secure, and sustainable maritime future for Nigeria.