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Author: Val Kosi

  • Katsina Governor Radda announces N70,000 minimum wage for civil Servants

    Katsina Governor Radda announces N70,000 minimum wage for civil Servants

    Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has announced the approval of a new N70,000 minimum wage for civil servants in the state, effective December 2024.

    Radda disclosed this via his official X page on Saturday, adding that it follows a thorough and successful negotiation regarding the new national minimum wage.

    According to him, the development will be accompanied by the necessary adjustment of salaries for employees across all sectors, including state, local government, and local education authority staff, starting from December 2024.

    Relevant stakeholders’ agreement 

    The governor expressed gratitude to the civil servants for their unwavering patience and understanding.

    “I encourage you to embrace a culture rooted in hard work, honesty, and productivity, recognizing the important role each of you plays in our collective efforts,” he added. 

    According to the governor’s media aide, Isah Miqdad, the Katsina State Government and the State Joint Public Service Negotiation Council finalized a landmark agreement to implement the new national minimum wage.

    He stressed that the agreement was signed by the Head of Katsina State Civil Service, the Secretary to the State Government, and representatives of the labor unions, marking a significant milestone in labor relations within the state.

    What you should know 

    Nairametrics previously reported that President Bola Tinubu signed the new N70,000 national minimum wage into law four months ago.

    • Nairametrics also reported that the National Assembly approved the bill to increase the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, effectively making it law.
    • The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced the approval following the third reading of the bill during a plenary session in Abuja.
    • The bill, proposed by President Bola Tinubu after meeting with the heads of organized labor last week, also included a reduction of the review timeline for the minimum wage from five years to three years.
    • Later, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) issued a December 1 ultimatum for all state governments to implement the new national minimum wage, citing the worsening economic situation faced by Nigerian workers.
    • This directive was announced in a communiqué signed by NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, following the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
    • In the communiqué, Ajaero expressed strong dissatisfaction with the delays from certain states in implementing the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, a delay he termed as both illegal and unjust.

    According to him, this lack of compliance has exacerbated the financial hardships faced by Nigerian workers amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.

    “The NEC notes with deep frustration the persistent delay and outright refusal by some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. This betrayal by certain governors and government officials across the country flies in the face of both legality and morality, as workers continue to be denied their rightful wages amidst rising economic hardship,” Ajaero stated. 

    Since then, several states have aligned by increasing their minimum wage.

  • 70% of Nigerian schools and 88% of health facilities lack basic sanitation- UNICEF

    70% of Nigerian schools and 88% of health facilities lack basic sanitation- UNICEF

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised concerns over Nigeria’s alarming sanitation challenges, revealing that 70% of schools and 88% of health facilities across the country lack access to basic sanitation services.

    Dr. Olusoji Akinleye, Coordinator and Officer in Charge (OIC) of UNICEF’s Enugu Field Office, disclosed these statistics during a media dialogue in Enugu held on Tuesday to mark the 2024 World Toilet Day. The event, themed “Toilets: A Place for Peace,” highlights the critical need for improved sanitation infrastructure in Nigeria.

    Dr. Akinleye highlighted the extent of the crisis. He explained that 48 million Nigerians, including 18 million children, still practice open defecation.
    “Also, 70% of schools without access to basic sanitation services (~91,000 schools); 88% of health facilities without access to basic sanitation (~27,600 health facilities),“ he stated.

    He also noted that 80% of markets and motor parks in the country lack access to basic sanitation, increasing public health risks.

    Inadequate funding hampers progress
    Akinleye attributed the persistence of open defecation and poor sanitation services to inadequate funding. He revealed that only 17% of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas (LGAs) have achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.

    According to him, federal commitment to sanitation efforts declined in 2023, stalling ODF initiatives. He added that only ₦15 billion was invested in sanitation infrastructure from 2018 to 2022, despite an annual funding requirement of ₦168.75 billion.
    Akinleye attributed the persistence of open defecation and poor sanitation services to inadequate funding, stating that only 17% of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas (LGAs) have achieved Open Defecation Free (ODF) status.
    He noted that only ₦15 billion was invested from 2018 to 2022, against an annual funding requirement of ₦168.75 billion
    “Federal commitment declined since 2023, resulting in stalled ODF initiatives,” he said.

    Rebecca Gabriel, a WASH Specialist with UNICEF’s Enugu office, emphasized the importance of collective action to address the sanitation crisis. She urged governments and private individuals to increase investments in sanitation infrastructure, especially in public places such as schools and markets.
    “Toilets should be built in Schools, and other public places to reduce ODF. Everyone must be involved including government and public spirited individuals; so we can achieve zero ODF in every state of Nigeria,” Gabriel stated.

    What you should know
    In a bid to combat open defecation and improve sanitation, Lagos State Government has approved the construction of 100 new public toilets across the state as part of the state’s broader Resilience Strategy, which aims to ensure that every Local Government and Local Council Development Area has accessible public toilets and bathrooms.

    Vice President Kashim Shettima urged state governors to step up their efforts in making Nigeria open-defecation-free within the next five years. He stressed that every action towards ending open defecation will not only improve public health but also enhance productivity,

  • Major economic agreements signed in Tinubu’s state visit to France

    Major economic agreements signed in Tinubu’s state visit to France

    President Bola Tinubu’s recent three-day state visit to France marked a significant achievement in strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and France.

    The visit saw the formal inauguration of Zenith Bank’s operations in France and the signing of key agreements aimed at fostering long-term collaboration in critical sectors, including infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and solid minerals.

    France is one of Nigeria’s key European trading partners, with French companies investing in sectors such as oil, infrastructure, and telecommunications.

    The cultural exchange between the two countries is also notable, with many Nigerians studying in France and both nations actively promoting arts and education.

    Key highlights from the visit

    1) Zenith Bank formally inaugurated its operations in France.

    2) UBA Group signed an agreement to commence operations in Paris.

    3) Letter of Intent signed between the Nigerian government and the French Development Agency (AFD) on long-term support for Nigeria’s energy access and transition, sustainable agriculture, and food security.

    4) MoU signed between the Nigerian government, the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, and the French government to develop joint projects focused on diversifying and promoting the critical minerals value chain in both countries

    5) Nigeria and France committed to enhancing collaboration in infrastructure, healthcare, transportation, the agricultural value chain, renewable energy, and human capital development

    UBA Group signed an agreement to commence operations in Paris

    • United Bank for Africa (UBA) signed a key agreement during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to France, marking a major step in its global expansion.
    • The agreement, signed by UBA Group Chairman Tony Elumelu and French Finance Minister Antoine Armand, ensures UBA’s full banking operations in France.
    • Elumelu highlighted that this move strengthens UBA’s commitment to offering seamless banking services not only in Africa but also to French and European customers engaging with Africa.

    “Expanding into France is a natural progression, with Paris serving as our European Union hub, as we continue to bring Africa and the world together, through innovative financial solutions. Paris will join London, New York and Dubai, as a critical component of our unique global network,” Elumelu said

    Zenith Bank formally inaugurated its operations in France

    Zenith Bank made significant strides in expanding its operations in Europe during President Tinubu’s state visit to France.

    The French market offers Zenith Bank the opportunity to deepen its international expansion, particularly in serving the growing needs of African businesses and investors in Europe.

    The bank’s inauguration of its services in France marks a notable step for the Nigerian banking giant, solidifying its footprint in one of the world’s leading financial hubs.

    Letter of Intent signed between the Nigerian and French Development Agency (AFD)

    Also on President Tinubu’s state visit to France, a Letter of Intent was signed between Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and the French Development Agency (AFD) CEO, Remi Rioux.

    • The agreement focuses on long-term collaboration to support Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The partnership will facilitate funding for key areas such as infrastructure development, agriculture, food security, healthcare, and human capital development, including education in STEM fields.
    • The AFD has committed to providing over €300 million in financial and technical assistance across all Nigerian regions, focusing on energy transition, sustainable agriculture, and the improvement of agro-logistic hubs.

    The agreement further emphasizes the importance of removing fiscal barriers and ensuring efficient project implementation to enhance mutual trade between the two nations.

    Nigeria and France to foster collaboration in the solid minerals sector

    The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Nigeria and France to foster collaboration in the solid minerals sector.

    • Dr Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals signed for Nigeria while the Inter-Ministerial delegate for Critical Ores and Metals of the Republic of France, Mr Benjamin Gallezot, signed on behalf of France.
    • This partnership will focus on the development of critical minerals, such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are key to advancing clean energy technologies. The two countries will also collaborate on research, training, and student exchanges to promote knowledge transfer.
    • A critical component of the agreement is the commitment to sustainable mining activities, aimed at reducing the environmental impact of mining. The MoU includes co-financed joint extractive projects, ensuring diversification and security of critical minerals while supporting energy transition projects.

    Additionally, the partnership aims to remediate over 2,000 abandoned mining pits across Nigeria, leveraging France’s expertise in sustainable mining.

    Development of critical infrastructure and long-term support for agriculture and food security

    President Bola Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron also signed two agreements in Paris focused on critical infrastructure development, including healthcare, transportation, and agricultural value chains, as well as renewable energy and human capital development.

    • The partnership, backed by over 300 million Euros in diverse financial and technical assistance programs, will span all geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
    • Both nations have committed to enhancing mutual trade, improving cross-border services, and eliminating fiscal barriers while protecting labor rights.
    • The agreements reached during President Tinubu’s visit laid the foundation for a strong and lasting Nigeria-France collaboration, with far-reaching implications for both nations’ economic growth and development.

     

  • FG raises loan access for MSMEs to N5 million at 9% interest rate in 3 years

    FG raises loan access for MSMEs to N5 million at 9% interest rate in 3 years

    The Nigerian government has announced a significant boost to its loan offerings for small businesses, raising the maximum amount accessible under single-digit interest loans to N5 million.

    The initiative, aimed at fostering inclusive economic growth, was unveiled by the Bank of Industry (BoI) Managing Director, Dr. Olasupo Olusi, during a town hall sensitization event in Lagos on Friday.

    Speaking on behalf of Olusi, Umar Shekarau, Executive Director for MSMEs at BoI, highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative is underpinned by a N200 billion Presidential Intervention Fund, with N75 billion specifically earmarked for MSMEs.

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on Job Creation and MSMEs, Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, confirmed that the increase in loan size—from the previous cap of N1 million to N5 million—aims to address the financial and infrastructural challenges confronting small businesses.

    “The loan is 9% three years tenure. A single MSME can collect up to N5 million single digit,” said Adekunle-Johnson. 

    “This scheme is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs nationwide,” Shekarau stated, adding that the funds are ready for disbursement at an annual interest rate of nine percent. Business owners are encouraged to approach BoI directly or register online, avoiding intermediaries. 

    The initiative, part of a broader federal strategy, was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, the Presidency, and other stakeholders.

    What to know 

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, represented by Ahmed Gazalli, showed the importance of MSMEs to the national economy. He described the program as a milestone in Nigeria’s drive towards economic empowerment and sustainable growth.

    “MSMEs form the backbone of our economy. Supporting their growth is essential for achieving our vision of an inclusive, thriving economy,” Gazalli remarked.  

    He reiterated the government’s resolve to remove barriers hindering MSME expansion while strengthening the manufacturing sector to reposition Nigeria’s economic landscape.

    Senator John Eno, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, pledged continued government support for programs advancing the welfare of Nigerians.

    He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address systemic challenges and accelerate MSME growth.

    The scheme’s expanded scope shows Nigeria’s determination to leverage its entrepreneurial base as a catalyst for economic stability and growth.

     

  • Belgium grants sex workers health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave

    Belgium grants sex workers health insurance, pensions, sick days and maternity leave

    Belgium has set a new benchmark in Europe by formally recognizing sex work as a legitimate profession, granting workers the same employment rights as those in other sectors.

    This historic legislation, passed in May and enacted on Sunday, allows sex workers to sign formal contracts and access critical benefits such as health insurance, pensions, family allowances, maternity leave, and paid vacations.

    The legal shift builds on Belgium’s 2022 decision to decriminalize sex work, which also narrowed the definition of pimping.

    This adjustment ensured that sex workers could access essential services, such as banking, insurance, transportation, and accounting, without fear of discrimination or legal repercussions.

    The new law goes even further, offering sex workers labor rights and protections on par with other professions, addressing long-standing inequities in the industry.

    The legislation guarantees sex workers the fundamental rights to refuse clients, set the terms of any act, and halt an act at any moment.

    What this means

    Employers hiring sex workers are now required to obtain official authorization and meet stringent background checks, including having no prior convictions for sexual assault, human trafficking, or fraud.

    • Additionally, employers must maintain clean and sanitary premises, provide hygiene products, and install panic buttons for enhanced safety.
    • Employers are prohibited from dismissing an employee who refuses a client or declines to perform a specific act, further strengthening worker protections.
    • These changes aim to ensure sex workers are treated equitably while creating safer working environments.
    • The reforms also address issues faced by sex workers before the introduction of labor protections.
    • According to UTSOPI, Belgium’s sex worker union, many workers previously felt compelled to continue working late into pregnancy or past retirement age due to a lack of financial safety nets.
    • The introduction of pensions, unemployment benefits, and other rights now offers a much-needed framework for long-term security.

    • What to know

      The legislation has been hailed as a “revolution” by advocates. Isabelle Jaramillo, coordinator of Espace P, described it as a transformative step that legitimizes the profession in the eyes of the state and improves conditions for both workers and employers.

      Mel Meliciousss, a sex worker and member of UTSOPI, celebrated the law’s enactment, saying, “People who are already working in the industry will be much more protect[ed], and also people who are going to work in the industry also know what their rights are.”

      • Despite its groundbreaking nature, the law has not been without criticism.
      • Advocates argue that it does not fully address the stigma or challenges faced by undocumented sex workers.
      • Nevertheless, Belgium’s move is a significant step in integrating comprehensive labor protections into one of the world’s oldest professions, setting a precedent for other nations to follow.
      • Deborah Dan-Awoh is a seasoned lifestyle analyst with a knack for storytelling. The focus of her work covers people, money and culture as it relates with business and economy. When she’s not keeping tabs on the latest trends in lifestyle and finance- Deborah enjoys networking with industry experts to gain insight into major markets as it affects the populace

    Belgium Health insurance Pensions sex workers

  • China, Nigeria strengthen ties in renewable energy, smart city development

    China, Nigeria strengthen ties in renewable energy, smart city development

    China and Nigeria are set to deepen their bilateral relationship through an ambitious partnership focused on renewable energy, smart city development, and critical infrastructure projects. 

    This was made known by Fang Qiuchen, Chairman of the China International Contractors Association (CHINCA). Speaking on the sidelines of the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) Exhibition in Abuja, Fang highlighted the potential of the collaboration to address Nigeria’s pressing energy challenges while promoting sustainable urban development. The move underscores the enduring relationship between the two nations, which dates back to 1991. 

    “The collaboration will leverage China’s advanced technologies and Nigeria’s abundant resources to create a sustainable energy framework that will benefit both nations,” Fang said, emphasizing its transformative potential for Nigeria’s energy sector and the broader economy. 

    Fang outlined plans to deploy advanced technologies such as big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) to modernize infrastructure and automate urban systems. Renewable energy projects, including investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, are set to align with global transitions towards cleaner energy solutions. 

    “The focus on renewable energy will enhance energy access across Nigeria, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and fostering economic growth,” Fang noted. He also stressed the integration of digital technologies into smart city projects to improve urban management and elevate the quality of life for residents. 

    What to know 

    Highlighting the strategic importance of the partnership, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, Director-General and Global Liaison for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, stated that the collaboration aligns with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). This initiative seeks to position Nigeria as a pivotal hub for West Africa, unlocking significant socio-economic opportunities. 

    “Nigeria’s large population and its robust economic ties with China present a unique opportunity to accelerate development in renewable energy and infrastructure,” Tegbe remarked. He lauded the partnership’s potential to drive innovation and capacity building in critical sectors. 

    The CAETE Exhibition featured over 100 Chinese firms showcasing their expertise in infrastructure and energy. Key participants included Power China, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), China Harbour Engineering, and Guangxi LiuGong Machinery. These firms demonstrated China’s readiness to invest and collaborate on transformative projects in Nigeria. 

    Mr. Xia Hao, Deputy Dean of the School of Economics and Trade at Hunan University, highlighted Nigeria’s status as a critical economic partner in Africa, with vast potential to benefit from China’s technological advancements and investments. 

    This partnership marks a significant step in fostering sustainable development, leveraging technology and innovation to address Nigeria’s developmental needs while strengthening its ties with China. 

    Backstory 

    Earlier Nairametrics reported that the growing trade volume between Nigeria and China, reached $22.6 billion in 2023, marking one of the highest trade exchanges in Africa.  

    VP Kashim Shettima shared this during a meeting with a Chinese delegation led by Mr. Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. 

    According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s trade relations with China are growing annually by 33%, demonstrating resilience even as the Nigerian economy continues to recover. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting and strengthening this partnership, describing the bilateral relationship as deeply cherished. 

    Reflecting on the long-standing ties between the two nations, Shettima noted that Nigeria and China have enjoyed warm bilateral relations for over 53 years, dating back to 1971.

  • Sokoto records 25 deaths, treats 1,160 cases in cholera outbreak – Director

    Sokoto records 25 deaths, treats 1,160 cases in cholera outbreak – Director

    The Sokoto State Ministry of Health has confirmed the treatment of 1,160 patients and reported 25 deaths due to gastroenteritis-related cases from January till date across 18 local government areas of Sokoto State.

    In an interview on Tuesday in Sokoto, Dr. Abdulganiyu Yusuf, Director of Public Health, stated that 23 of the fatalities occurred at home, while only three were recorded in health centers.

    He added that the ministry ensured adequate response from its epidemiology centre by utilizing the drugs and consumables provided by the state government.
    He explained that cases of gastroenteritis, traditionally referred to as cholera, were being managed in hospitals and primary healthcare centres at different locations, while the health centres were supplied adequate drugs.

    State’s interventions and surveillance measures
    The director noted that during outbreaks, the ministry ensured surveillance, active cases search and social mobilization to promptly manage identified cases.

    He noted that cholera and other cases were traced by obtaining line lists, as cholera is only confirmed through laboratory tests, emphasizing that most patients underwent diarrhoea and lost weight at home before going to a health centre for treatment.
    According to Dr. Yusuf, the outbreak intensified during the rainy season but has now subsided, with 15 active cases currently under management. These include seven in Sokoto North, six in Silame, and two in Kware local government areas.
    The state’s Health Commissioner, Hajiya Asabe Balarabe, earlier disclosed that 25 people had died, and several others were hospitalized due to the outbreak. She confirmed that cholera cases were in three council areas of Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware local government areas of the state.
    “At present, the state is treating 15 persons in active cases. They were diagnosed through laboratory tests based on culture and sensitivity and confirmed to be active cases of the outbreak, “She disclosed.

    She described the state government’s response to the outbreak as “prompt and effective”, adding that medication and other drugs have already been purchased and distributed to 18 local government areas as an intervention to curtail the spread.
    However, the absence of response teams and other isolated treatment points that curtail the spread of suspected gastroenteritis outbreaks has become a source of worry for citizens of Sokoto State.

    Gaps in response raise alarm
    Despite these efforts, residents and health workers have expressed concerns over the lack of designated isolation centers and response teams. A health official, speaking anonymously, revealed that suspected cases were being treated without central directives for isolation or specialized treatment points.

    Local residents, including Malam Musa Muhammad, Bello Isiyaku, and Malami Muhammad, criticized the absence of isolation protocols, warning that treating outbreak patients alongside others could worsen the situation.
    A visit to affected areas by reporters revealed that cholera cases were being handled as routine illnesses, with no visible signs of response teams or isolation facilities. This apparent oversight has heightened fears among citizens about the potential spread of the outbreak.
    The government has yet to address these concerns publicly, as residents urge stronger measures to ensure public safety.

     

     

  • UN report says 140 women killed daily by intimate partners or family members

    UN report says 140 women killed daily by intimate partners or family members

    A recent report by UN Women and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has revealed that 140 women and girls are killed daily by intimate partners or close relatives.

    This equates to one woman or girl being killed every 10 minutes globally.

    This is according to the Femicides in 2023: Global Estimates of Intimate Partner/Family Member Femicides report released on November 25, 2024, to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
    The report disclosed that out of 85,000 intentional killings of women and girls globally in 2023, 60% equivalent to 51,100 deaths occurred at the hands of an intimate partner or a family member.

    “Globally, 85,000 women and girls were killed intentionally in 2023. 60 per cent of these homicides –51,100- were committed by an intimate partner or a family member.

    The data shows that 140 women and girls die every day at the hands of their partner or a close relative, which means one woman or girl is killed every 10 minutes,” the report stated.

    Regional breakdown
    The report also provides a detailed regional analysis of femicide, revealing that Africa recorded the highest rates of intimate partner and family-related femicide in 2023. This was followed by the Americas and Oceania.

    In Europe and the Americas, most women killed in domestic settings were murdered by their intimate partners. Specifically, in Europe, 64% of femicides were committed by intimate partners, while in the Americas, this figure stood at 58%.
    However, the report noted a key difference in other regions, where family members, rather than intimate partners, were the primary perpetrators of femicides.
    This highlights regional differences in the nature of violence and suggests that cultural and societal factors play a significant role in shaping how violence against women manifests.

    Call for global action
    Speaking on the report, UN Women Executive Director Sima Bahous urged global leaders to take decisive steps to end violence against women.

    “Violence against women and girls is not inevitable it is preventable. We need robust legislation, improved data collection, greater government accountability, a zero-tolerance culture, and increased funding for women’s rights organizations and institutional bodies.

    “As we approach the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025, it is time for world leaders to UNiTE and act with urgency, recommit, and channel the resources needed to end this crisis once and for all,” she said.

    UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly emphasized the need for stronger criminal justice systems to hold perpetrators accountable and provide support for survivors, including safe reporting mechanisms

    “The new femicide report highlights the urgent need for strong criminal justice systems that hold perpetrators accountable while ensuring adequate support for survivors, including access to safe and transparent reporting mechanisms. At the same time, we must confront and dismantle the gender biases, power imbalances, and harmful norms that perpetuate violence against women,” she said.

  • Canada, Germany, and New Zealand stand as key destinations for skilled workers in 2025

    Canada, Germany, and New Zealand stand as key destinations for skilled workers in 2025

    Canada, Germany, and New Zealand are becoming prime destinations for skilled workers seeking new opportunities in 2025.

    These countries offer strong economic prospects, competitive salaries, and efficient immigration pathways, making them attractive options for professionals looking to relocate.

    According to the DAAD Scholarship, these nations also provide clear routes to citizenship, ensuring long-term success for workers.

     

    They are as listed below:

    Canada: strong economy and clear immigration pathways

    Reports inform that Canada stands out for its competitive salaries and immigration systems, which are designed to attract skilled professionals. The average salary in Canada is CAD 60,000 annually, with tech and STEM roles offering six-figure salaries. The country’s immigration pathways, including the Express Entry, Global Talent Stream, and Provincial Nominee Programs, have contributed to it being a top choice for skilled workers.

    The Express Entry system typically processes most applications in six months or less once a complete application is submitted. This quick processing time is one of the reasons it is popular.

    In addition to strong economic prospects, reports inform that Canada offers a stable economy with low inflation, ensuring that workers’ earnings retain value. With just three years of permanent residency, workers can apply for citizenship.

    Germany: a growing economy with various visa options

    Germany is another top destination for skilled professionals, especially in fields like engineering, IT, and manufacturing. The average salary in Germany is €50,000 annually, and industries like engineering and IT offer higher pay. Germany’s immigration system includes options like the Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), which allows skilled workers with at least two years of experience to directly enter the job market.

    • Germany’s Opportunity Card has made it easier for skilled workers to find employment. It provides a direct route for professionals to settle and work in Germany.
    • The country also offers other work visa options such as the EU Blue Card and visas for shortage occupations. According to reports, the country’s stable economy and manageable inflation allow workers to retain purchasing power.

    The path to gaining citizenship in Germany takes about eight years, but this timeline is shorter for those married to German citizens. After acquiring German citizenship, individuals become EU citizens, opening up opportunities in 26 other countries.

    New Zealand: career growth and a high quality of life

    According to DAAD Scholarship, New Zealand offers both career opportunities and a high standard of living.

    • The average salary is NZD 70,000, with healthcare, IT, and skilled trades offering higher wages. The country’s immigration system actively seeks skilled workers with programs like the Essential Skills Work Visa, Specific Purpose Work Visa, and Green List occupations.
    • Reports show that New Zealand is a prime destination for skilled workers, especially with the Green List occupations. These programs help workers find jobs in areas where there is a demand.

    New Zealand’s path to citizenship is one of the shortest globally, with workers eligible to apply after five years of residence. The country, according to reports, is commended for its low crime rates; making it a safe and welcoming place to live. The stable economy and low inflation ensure that the cost of living remains manageable, while workers’

    earnings retain value.

    Planning your move: a strategic approach to applications

    While applying for jobs and visas in Canada, Germany, and New Zealand is possible, reports caution that it requires careful planning.

    Each country has its own visa requirements and processing times, so it is important to prioritize applications. Consulting immigration experts can help ensure that all necessary documents are submitted correctly.

    A strategic approach includes applying sequentially to save resources and focusing on the most suitable destination. It is also crucial to consider factors such as job markets, cultural fit, and family needs in each country. This method can help increase the chances of successfully securing a work visa and permanent residency.

    I am Chigozirim Enyinnia, a career, Immigration and Education analyst. My objectives require the delivery of credible information concerning these areas, so readers can make informed decisions.

     

  • 30% of Nigerian women have experienced violence – Women Affairs Minister

    30% of Nigerian women have experienced violence – Women Affairs Minister

    The Minister for Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, revealed that 30 per cent of Nigerian women and girls aged between 15 and 49 have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives.

    She made this statement on Monday in Abuja during a press briefing and flag-off ceremony marking the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), held at the Ministry’s headquarters with the theme “Unite Campaign: Towards Beijing to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls.”

    The minister, who described GBV as a societal issue and an impediment to development, expressed concern over the statistics in the country.
    She said the statistics show women and girls at great risk, stressing that “the growing trend represents a gross violation of human rights and undermines the very fabric of the society, thereby preventing women and girls from achieving their full potential.

    “Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it is a societal issue, a human rights issue, and an impediment to our nation’s development.

    “The statistics before us on GBV in Nigeria remain deeply troubling. Even as we embark on this campaign today, a little child has just been violated, a woman has just been abused, and a young girl’s life is at risk somewhere in a community, all for no just cause.

    “Current reports indicate that 30 per cent of Nigerian women and girls aged between 15 and 49 years have experienced physical or sexual violence at some point in their lives,” she stated.

    Violence extends beyond homes
    The minister noted that violence occurs not only in homes, but extends to schools, workplaces, and communities.

    “Violence does not know any tribe or creed, it cuts across social and economic boundaries. It affects both young and old. The most vulnerable; our young girls, women in conflict-affected areas, and those living with disabilities face even greater risks.”

    “This growing trend is unacceptable, represents a gross violation of human rights, and hinders women and girls from achieving their full potential. It also stalls our nation’s progress towards inclusive development. ”

    She urged the media partners to play a crucial role in this campaign, and as we observe the 2024 Unite Campaign in Nigeria, we must collectively adopt a multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder approach to tackle this pervasive issue.
    Sulaiman-Ibrahim outlined plans to involve traditional and religious leaders in combating harmful cultural norms that perpetuate violence. She emphasized the need for education and community mobilization to challenge stereotypes and end harmful practices.
    The Minister affirmed that the Ministry, in collaboration with its partners, will host a range of activities nationwide during the 16-day campaign. These include sensitization drives, school visits, workshops, and an awareness walk to the National Assembly.
    The initiatives will also focus on empowering girls in rural areas and enhancing survivor support through Nigeria’s network of 47 Sexual Assault Referral Centres.

    She noted, “We are committed to strengthening legislation and ensuring its implementation. Today, we celebrate Bauchi State for domesticating the Child Rights Act (2003), completing all 36 states, and 35 states now implementing the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act (2015).”

    UN Women highlights economic impacts of GBV
    Ms. Beatrice Eyong, the Country Representative of UN Women to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasized that gender inequality and GBV hinder Nigeria’s progress, costing the nation 1.5% of its GDP annually.

    She noted that 42% of women remain financially excluded, with women holding less than 5% of elective positions.

    “GBV is everywhere, it is not good for either the men or the women. It has the capacity to reduce economic growth if this is not reduced, we will never come out of poverty. It is not just a human rights issue, it is an economic issue.

    “The funding for gender equality and women empowerment has reduced, and as experts, we have to think of innovative ways to mobilize funds to fight the menace,” Eyong added.

    Also, Gabriel Aduda, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, called on stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and intensify efforts to tackle the root causes of GBV.

    He stated, “Each law we enact, every program we implement, and every survivor we empower brings us closer to a Nigeria where women and girls can live free from fear and violence.”