Category: News

  • NCAA Spokesperson Condemns Assault on Officers, Decries Aggressive Passenger Attitude to CPO

    NCAA Spokesperson Condemns Assault on Officers, Decries Aggressive Passenger Attitude to CPO

    The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Director, Public and Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu has stated that no air passenger has the right to attack any NCAA personnel.

    He made the statement on his X handle while condemning the aggressive behaviour of one Mr. Ibok Maurice Ibok, a Royal Air Maroc passenger ,towards an NCAA Consumer Protection Officer (CPO) on 4th January, 2025.

    He explained that Mr. Ibok created a scene because his bags did not arrive along with his flight.

    According to Achimugu, the CPO distanced himself from Mr.Ibok and promised to attend to him until he was calm as he has been physically attacked by a passenger in the past.The NCAA spokesperson said an aviation agency staff ,a supposed Assistant General Manager (AGM) who was expected to resolve the issue, teamed up with the passenger.

    Michael Achimugu affirmed that the Authority’s legal department will take up a case against Mr. Ibok while the AGM will be reported to his Managing-Director .

    He also disclosed that Royal Air Maroc is one of the airlines which NCAA has initiated enforcement actions and the Authority will investigate the issue in order for appropriate action to be taken .

    His words, “Earlier today, one Mr. Ibok Maurice Ibok, a passenger whose bags did not arrive via his Royal Air Maroc flight (short-landed baggage) became very aggressive and threatened an NCAA Consumer Protection Officer in Lagos.

    “The officer, a victim of an unjustified physical attack in the past, distanced himself from the passenger who continued to scream at the top of his voice. The CPO maintained that he could not attend to the passenger until he agreed to calm down.

    “Royal Air Maroc is one of the airlines against whom the NCAA has initiated enforcement actions. The Authority will therefore investigate today’s occurrences and take appropriate action based on its findings.

    “The Honourable Minister of Aviation and the DG NCAA will not tolerate any assault on their staff. Passengers are urged to comply with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023. We remain committed to protecting the rights of all stakeholders.” he said.

     

  • Germany opens doors for skilled workers with expanded visa plans  

    Germany opens doors for skilled workers with expanded visa plans  

    Germany is working to address growing labor shortages in critical sectors by welcoming more skilled foreign workers.

    The country is set to increase professional visas in 2024, creating significant job opportunities for international applicants.

    This is intended to fill gaps in key industries and counterbalance Germany’s aging population.

    According to TravelBiz, Germany’s labor market is facing urgent demands for skilled workers, especially in healthcare, engineering, IT, and technical trades.

    With the country’s aging population, immigration is seen as a crucial solution to prevent workforce decline and meet industry needs.

    Why Germany needs skilled workers   

    Reports unveil that Germany requires 288,000 immigrants annually until 2040 to maintain its labor force. Despite efforts to increase workforce participation from women and older individuals, immigration remains essential. Without it, the demand for skilled workers could rise to 368,000 each year.

    The country’s focus on skilled workers aims to offset demographic shifts and fill vacancies in crucial sectors.

    Germany’s Visa Plans for 2024   

    To address these labor shortages, TravelBiz reports that Germany announced plans to issue 200,000 professional visas in 2024. This marks a 10% increase over previous years.

    Sectors with high demand for workers  

    In light of this gap in the workforce, Germany is offering substantial opportunities for skilled professionals. The most in-demand fields include:

    1. Healthcare  
    • Registered nurses
    • Elder care specialists
    • General practitioners and specialist Doctors
    1. Engineering and technical professions : such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers , also environmental and chemical engineers
    1. Information technology (IT)  
    •  Software developers
    •   IT consultants
    •   Network administrators
    1. Skilled trades  
    • Electricians
    • Plumbers
    •  Carpenters

    Shortage Occupation List  : Germany has also identified several professions where there is a notable shortage of skilled workers. These include roles in

    • Healthcare,
    • Engineering,
    • IT, and teaching.

    The country is particularly looking for professionals in medical fields such as nurses, doctors, and physiotherapists.

    • Engineering roles, especially in mechanical, civil, and electrical disciplines, are also high in demand.
    • IT professionals, including software developers and cybersecurity specialists, are needed to support the country’s growing digital infrastructure.

    In addition to these, there is a strong demand for educators, particularly in vocational and secondary education, as well as professionals in fields such as social work, architecture, and management.

    Visa options for skilled workers  

    Furthermore, Germany is also offering several visa pathways for foreign professionals. The most common is the;

    Skilled Worker Visa, which is designed for applicants with qualifications in high-demand fields such as IT, healthcare, and engineering. To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a German employer. Other visa options include:

    • EU Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals with university degrees and a job contract that meets salary thresholds.
    • Job Seeker Visa: Allows individuals to search for jobs in Germany for up to six months without working.
    • Freelance Visa: For self-employed professionals in creative and academic fields, this visa demands proof of financial stability.

    Increasing your chances of success 

    TravelBiz informs that for those interested in working in Germany, there are several steps to improve their chances. One would first need to,

    • Target sectors listed on Germany’s Shortage Occupation List.
    • Ensure that your qualifications meet German standards and improve your chances by learning the German language, as many roles require it.
    • Finally, prepare a strong application that highlights relevant experience and skills, making you a competitive candidate in Germany’s job market.

    By expanding visa options and focusing on industries facing labor shortages, Germany is offering a valuable opportunity for skilled workers to contribute to its economy and fill critical roles in key sectors.

     

     

  • ‘Moana 2’ earns N12.4million for first day advanced screening in Nigerian cinemas

    ‘Moana 2’ earns N12.4million for first day advanced screening in Nigerian cinemas

    Moana 2 has earned N12.4 million during its first day of advanced screenings across 37 locations in Nigeria, according to newly released data.

    The figures highlight the film’s substantial appeal, as the sequel to Disney’s 2016 blockbuster resonated strongly with local audiences, setting a promising tone for its full theatrical release.

    This performance shows the film’s potential to dominate the Nigerian box office in the coming weeks, though its trajectory remains difficult to predict. Animated features of this scale often experience significant word-of-mouth momentum, which could amplify its reach beyond initial expectations.

    This performance sets Moana 2 apart as the highest Wednesday preview for any film this calendar year, surpassing notable entries like Ajosepo, which grossed N9.5 million during a holiday preview, and Gladiator II, which earned N8.2 million.

    Other strong performances in 2024 include Deadpool & Wolverine at N7.8 million, All’s Fair and Love at N7.6 million during Valentine’s Day, and Muri & Ko, which garnered N5.6 million on a holiday release. Moana 2’s debut not only outshines these films but also establishes a new benchmark for advanced screenings in Nigeria.

    What we know 

    Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, Moana 2 reunites beloved characters Moana and Maui for an epic new voyage three years after the events of the first film. This time, Moana heeds an ancestral call to navigate uncharted waters in Oceania, accompanied by an unlikely crew of seafarers.

    • With producers Christina Chen and Yvett Merino at the helm, the film is enriched by a musical score featuring Grammy winners Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, and Mark Mancina, alongside Grammy-nominated Opetaia Foaʻi. Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson reprise their iconic roles as Moana and Maui, ensuring continuity for fans of the original.
    • Globally, Moana 2 has also made a significant impact. The film earned $57.5 million on its first day in North America, placing it as a frontrunner in the Thanksgiving holiday box office race.
    • Industry projections suggest it will gross at least $175 million over its first five days in U.S. theatres, with some estimates as high as $200 million.
    • If achieved, these figures would break the Thanksgiving box office record, surpassing Disney’s Frozen II, which collected $125 million, and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, which grossed $109 million over the same period.

    The N12.4 million debut positions Moana 2 as a strong contender for top-grossing animated films in Nigeria this year. Its blend of action-adventure, family-friendly themes, and high-quality animation aligns well with local audience preferences, potentially paving the way for further milestones in the coming weeks.

  • Akwa Ibom govt plans 4-star Ibom Hotel in Abuja to diversify revenue streams beyond oil

    Akwa Ibom govt plans 4-star Ibom Hotel in Abuja to diversify revenue streams beyond oil

    The Akwa Ibom State Government has unveiled plans to construct a 4-star Ibom Hotel in Abuja as part of its broader strategy to diversify revenue streams and reduce dependence on oil.

    Governor Umo Eno made this announcement during his presentation of the 2025 budget proposal before the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly on Wednesday.

    He further emphasized that the state government is finalizing arrangements for the hotel’s construction, which is expected to generate substantial long-term returns on investment.

    The details were drawn from the governor’s speech, which was later made available on the official website of the state government.

    “We are also concluding plans to construct a Four-Star Ibom Hotels in Abuja- all these will in the long run earn us solid returns on investment. As the world is looking beyond oil, we too, must make plans to think ahead and survive without oil,” he stated.  

    This announcement comes just weeks after the Akwa Ibom State government held the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the 18-story Ibom Towers, a project that, upon completion, will mark the state’s entry into the dynamic Lagos real estate market.

    The governor emphasized the state’s commitment to boosting its internally generated revenue through the innovative revitalization of its underutilized assets.

    What you should know  

    Governor Umo Eno outlined several key initiatives by the Akwa Ibom State Government aimed at diversifying the state’s economy and fostering sustainable development.

    • He emphasized the Ibom Deep Seaport, a flagship project vital to the state’s long-term economic strategy. The governor shared that a comprehensive feasibility study, encompassing geotechnical, geophysical, and environmental assessments, has been completed.
    • With the study finalized, he confirmed that the project will now proceed to the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) phase, a critical step in the execution of large-scale infrastructure projects. He also highlighted progress in improving access to the facility and enhancing the seaport’s connectivity and operational readiness.
    • Governor Eno also highlighted tourism as a central pillar of the state’s economic vision. He announced that a section of Arise Park, the state’s ambitious tourism project, will open in December, with the first phase featuring a children’s playground and a golf course.

    Situated on land once devastated by gully erosion along Etim Umana and Dominic Utuk Avenues, the park, as noted by the governor, now embodies the state’s dedication to transformation.

    Upon completion, he stated, Arise Park will emerge as a major tourism hub, driving economic growth, creating jobs, and furthering the state’s diversification goals.

     

  • Nigeria seeks South Africa’s support for G20 and BRICS membership

    Nigeria seeks South Africa’s support for G20 and BRICS membership

    The Nigerian government has sought South Africa’s endorsement to attain full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB).

    The requests were made by Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during the closing remarks of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town, South Africa.

    South Africa officially assumed the presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) on December 1, a platform comprising the world’s largest economies.

    South Africa is also a key member of the expanded BRICS bloc, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. BRICS nations currently account for approximately 37% of global GDP and are recognized as a significant engine of global economic growth.

    Nigeria’s Strategic Goals 

    During her remarks, Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria’s interest in assuming leadership roles in thematic discussions under South Africa’s G20 presidency.

    She also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing peace and stability in the African region, particularly in Sudan.

    “We are strongly committed to seeking a resolution of the crisis in Sudan. In this guise, we seek South Africa’s support to accelerate the peace process and ensure that conflicts within our region are de-escalated,” she said.

    She added that President Bola Tinubu, a member of the African Union’s ad-hoc mediation committee on Sudan, has prioritized resolving the crisis to foster regional peace and stability.

    • The minister praised officials from both nations for their collaborative efforts in drafting a communiqué that reflects the outcomes of the ministerial session.
    • This draft document, alongside agreed minutes, will be presented to Presidents Bola Tinubu and Cyril Ramaphosa during the presidential session of the BNC.

    South Africa’s response 

    Dr. Roland Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, acknowledged Nigeria’s requests and committed to amplifying Africa’s voice during South Africa’s G20 presidency.

    “We will count on Nigeria’s wise counsel as we assume this major responsibility,” Lamola stated.

    Lamola also reiterated the mutual commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral relations, highlighting their shared responsibility to improve the quality of life for their citizens.

    “Our people expect South Africa and Nigeria, given our common roots, to work more closely together to improve their conditions and prospects,” he added.

    What you should know 

    In October this year, Nigeria joined BRICS as a partner country, alongside 12 other nations, further strengthening its economic ties with the intergovernmental bloc.

    • This announcement was made at the 2024 BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, held from October 22 to 24, 2024.
    • The 12 other countries that joined as partner nations include Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.

    These countries, including Nigeria, were added as partner countries and not full members.

    Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, BRICS, G20, Nigeria, South Africa

  • UK government introduces stricter regulations to protect foreign workers

    UK government introduces stricter regulations to protect foreign workers

    The UK government is set to introduce new measures to combat the exploitation of foreign workers, with tougher penalties for employers who break visa rules or fail to meet minimum wage standards.

    The proposed Employment Rights Bill, currently under discussion in Parliament, aims to hold employers accountable and curb unethical practices, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on migrant labor, such as health and social care.

    Tougher penalties for rule-breaking employers 

    TravelBiz reports that the UK government is planning to impose stricter penalties on employers who violate visa and wage laws.

    The new Employment Rights Bill proposes to double the period during which employers can be sanctioned for serious breaches.

    Currently, employers who fail to comply with minimum wage laws or repeatedly break visa rules face a one-year restriction on hiring foreign workers. Under the new measures, this period will be extended to two years, making it harder for non-compliant businesses to hire from overseas.

    Stronger enforcement and action plans

    The reforms will also introduce more robust enforcement measures. The government plans to introduce action plans for businesses found to have violated visa rules. These plans will require companies to make improvements within one year, a significant increase from the previous three-month period.

    During this time, businesses will be restricted from hiring international workers, increasing the pressure on companies to comply with regulations.

    Focus on the care sector 

    Reports inform that the UK government is particularly concerned with sectors where workers are most at risk of exploitation, such as health and social care.

    • Many migrant workers in these sectors have been vulnerable to unethical practices, such as being forced to pay for their visa sponsorship or being underpaid.
    • The Home Office has revoked 450 sponsor licenses in the care sector since July 2022, as part of efforts to crack down on exploitation.
    • The government is also working to support care workers who are affected by these changes, helping them transition to new jobs when their employers lose their sponsorship licenses.

    The government’s commitment to protecting workers 

    Migration Minister Seema Malhotra emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting migrant workers from exploitation.

    “Worker exploitation is completely unacceptable,” Malhotra said, stressing that businesses that shift the costs of visa sponsorship onto employees or engage in other exploitative practices would face serious consequences.

    Health Minister Stephen Kinnock echoed this view, underscoring the importance of safeguarding migrant workers in the care sector and ensuring they are not subjected to abuse.

    Plans for future expansion of rule changes 

    While the initial focus of these reforms will be on skilled worker visas, including those for care workers, reports inform that the government plans to extend these rules to other visa categories in the future. The aim is to ensure that all foreign workers are treated fairly and are not subjected to exploitation by employers who break the law.

    Key requirements for employers 

    It is stressed that employers must comply with several key requirements to avoid facing penalties under the new regulations.

    • These include paying for all costs associated with visa sponsorship, ensuring workers are paid at least the minimum wage, and adhering to all immigration rules.
    • Businesses that fail to meet these standards may face up to two years of sanctions and be banned from hiring overseas workers.
    • The UK government’s focus is on protecting vulnerable migrant workers, especially those in high-risk sectors such as health and social care.
    • By introducing these stricter measures, the government aims to reduce exploitation and ensure that the immigration system is fair and accountable for both workers and employers.
  • 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.

  • Top ten export destinations of Nigerian goods in Q2, 2024

    Top ten export destinations of Nigerian goods in Q2, 2024

    Nigeria’s export trade has remained strong in Q2 2024, with the top ten destinations accounting for 72.15% of total exports, valued at N14.01 trillion.

    Total exports to all destinations saw a modest increase of 1.31%, rising to N19.41 trillion in Q2, compared to N19.16 trillion in Q1 2024.

    Spain emerged as the leading destination, receiving N2 trillion worth of Nigerian exports in Q2 2024, while China, the smallest importer among the top ten, received N744.91 billion in total exports.

    This data is derived from the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report for Q2 2024.

    Below is a detailed breakdown of Nigeria’s top export destinations, along with key insights into the factors driving these trade patterns.

    1. China – N744.91 billion (5.32% of total exports)
    • China, which did not appear among Nigeria’s top ten export destinations in Q1, re-entered the list in Q2 2024 with imports totaling N744.91 billion.
    • Although Nigeria’s crude oil exports to China have been on the decline, accounting for only 28.05% of total exports, the country continues to play a key role in Nigeria’s non-oil exports, representing 71.95% of trade with Nigeria.
    1. Indonesia – N862.77 billion (6.16% of total exports)
    • Indonesia, though a major importer of Nigerian crude, saw a decline of 24.70% in imports from Nigeria in Q2, totaling N862.77 billion from 1.14 trillion in Q1.
    • Crude oil accounted for 98.71% of exports to Indonesia, with the remaining 1.29% non-crude oil products.
    • Indonesia’s expanding industrial sector remains a key driver of demand for Nigerian oil.
    1. Italy – N1.16 trillion (8.31% of total exports)
    • Italy’s imports from Nigeria saw a significant increase of 28.72%, reaching N1.16 trillion in Q2 2024 from N904.27 billion.
    • Crude oil made up 99.54% of exports to Italy, with non-crude oil products comprising just 0.46%.
    •  Italy’s growing reliance on Nigerian crude, particularly after the geopolitical shifts in Europe, reflects the continued importance of Nigerian oil for its energy security.
    1. Canada – N1.17 trillion (8.40% of total exports)
    • Canada’s imports from Nigeria grew by 5.94% to N1.17 trillion in Q2 2024 from N1.11 trillion in Q1.
    • Crude oil constituted 98.48% of exports to Canada, with non-crude oil products making up the remaining 1.52%.
    • Despite increasing energy independence in North America, Canada continues to rely on Nigerian oil, maintaining a steady trade relationship.
    1. Ivory Coast – N1.35 trillion (9.64% of total exports)
    • Ivory Coast has seen a remarkable surge in imports from Nigeria, with an 81.39% increase in Q2, totaling N1.35 trillion from N744.59 billion in the first quarter of 2024.
    • As the only African nation in the top ten, the bulk of its imports from Nigeria consisted of 99.29% crude oil, bolstered by Ivory Coast’s growing refining capacity.
    •  The country’s increasing demand for energy makes it a vital partner for Nigeria’s oil exports.
    1. Netherlands – N1.38 trillion (9.85% of total exports)
    • The Netherlands received N1.37 trillion worth of exports from Nigeria in Q2 2024, with a marked decrease of 18.63% from 1.695 trillion in Q1.
    • Despite this drop, the Netherlands plays a crucial role in distributing Nigerian crude to other European markets, alongside a significant portion of non-oil products, contributing 71.29% crude oil and 28.71% non-crude oil in Q2.
    1. India – N1.65 trillion (11.78% of total exports)
    • India’s growing industrial and energy needs have driven a slight 2.40% increase in imports from Nigeria, totaling N1.65 trillion in Q2 2024 from N1.61 trillion in the first quarter of the year.
    • Nigeria’s export to India comprises 67.38% crude oil and 32.62% non-crude products.
    • As one of the world’s largest consumers of oil, India’s demand for Nigerian crude is expected to continue growing, solidifying Nigeria’s position as a key supplier.
    1. France – N1.82 trillion (12.99% of total exports)
    • France, like other European nations, has increased its reliance on Nigerian crude oil.
    •  In Q2 2024, the country imported N1.82 trillion in goods, with crude oil representing 78.57% of that total.
    • While imports from Nigeria declined by 14.36% from N2.125 trillion in Q1, France remains a critical partner in the diversification of Europe’s energy supply, particularly considering the ongoing energy crisis stemming from the Ukraine conflict.
    1. United States – N1.86 trillion (13.25% of total exports)
    • The U.S. remains one of Nigeria’s major trade partners, receiving N1.86 trillion in exports during Q2 2024, a notable 41.55% increase from N1.31 trillion in Q1.
    • Crude oil made up 87.43% of exports to the U.S., with non-crude oil products accounting for 12.57%.
    • Despite its growing energy independence, the U.S. continues to rely on Nigerian oil, reinforcing its role in Nigeria’s export economy.
    1. Spain – N2.01 trillion (14.32% of total exports)
    • Spain bagged the position as Nigeria’s largest export destination, receiving N2.01 trillion worth of goods in Q2 2024, despite a slight decline of 0.82% from N2.02 trillion the previous quarter.
    • A significant portion, 81.03%, of exports to Spain consisted of crude oil, with the remaining 18.97% comprising non-crude oil products.
    • Spain’s importance as a key refining hub in Europe has been magnified by the broader EU strategy to diversify energy sources away from Russian oil.

    Key insights and conclusion

    • The top ten export destinations for Nigeria in Q2 2024 highlight the strategic role of oil in the global trade dynamics and crude oil continues to dominate Nigeria’s exports.
    • Europe remains a critical market for Nigerian oil, with countries like Spain, France, and Italy continuing to rely on Nigeria to secure their energy needs.
    • Meanwhile, Asian economies such as India and China also represent significant markets for Nigerian oil, with India’s demand rising steadily.
    • These trade relationships are shaped by a complex interplay of energy security, geopolitical factors, and economic demands, positioning Nigeria as an important global supplier of crude oil, even as it works to diversify its export base.
  • Waste managers to Lagos govt, reduce remittances from 25% to 10%

    Waste managers to Lagos govt, reduce remittances from 25% to 10%

    Waste managers under the aegis of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) have pleaded with the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to reduce its remittance to the authority from 25% to 10%.

    This is due to the high cost of doing business in Nigeria at the moment and helping its members sustain their operations in the industry.

    The appeal was made by the President of AWAMN, Mr Olugbenga Adebola, during a chat with journalists after the unveiling of the association’s planned conference, with the theme: “Redefining Integrated Waste Management In Nigeria Through Circular Economy” on Thursday, November 2, 2024.

    Adebola said that the 25% remittance which was an arrangement between the association and the Lagos state government, involves the remittance of a certain percentage to LAWMA after carrying out its duties.

    Profitability has been eroded

    Adebola explained that due to the current economic situation, and the inflationary effect on the gamut of all operations, not only within waste management, it was extremely difficult for the waste managers to maintain the cost of doing things.

    The AWAMN President said, “The cost of doing business in Nigeria is going higher. If the cost of doing business is going higher and we keep on paying the 25 per cent to the government, then we are not making anything.

    “That is why, to help our members to be sustainable in the industry, we appeal to the Lagos State Government to reduce our 25 percent to 10 percent so that our people can make a profit.

    “Right now, the profitability has been eroded by that 25 percent. so it’s like, you go and work and you get the money, you just give it to the overnment, and then the operators don’t have anything at the end of it all.’’

    According to him, due to the present situation, even the Federal Government is reducing the amount of taxes.

    He said, “So it’s just simple economics that, given the current increment in the cost of operation, there is a need for us to re-engineer our cost activities.

    “We need to re-engineer our cost recovery. We need to re-engineer even the sharing formula, and that is what we are saying.’’

    We will look into the issues – LAWMA

    Reacting to the appeal made by waste managers, the Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, noted that the 25% was part of the contract agreement LAWMA had with the waste managers.

    Gbadegesin said that the money was meant to be a cross-subsidy for low-income areas that don’t pay for waste evacuation.

    He said, “That is why we have it. So, we look into the issues, and like I said, there is a need for us to take a holistic approach, and look at the cost of managing waste statewide.

    “We will look at how we can efficiently make funds available so that they will be able to do their work well and ensure that people are paying an affordable rate that will guarantee timely and efficient evacuation of waste from the household,

    What you should know

    This is not the first time the association has made a case for the reduction of remittance to the Lagos State Government.

    However, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, during a meeting with the waste managers in November 2023, rejected such a request saying the government is aware that the PSP operators need some interventions but they must explain why the revenue being generated presently has dropped by 50% within 5 years.

    He said, “When you had a surplus, did you increase the stake of the government? As such I reject the appeal to reduce the 25% remit to LAWMA. I will not go that route except on two conditions: I want the enumeration of all the houses and digitize the number of household facilities across the state.’’

    He said the continuous increase in population with the corresponding increase in the generation of waste has necessitated the need for a major change in PSP’s daily operations, adding that the present cost is not sustainable in light of the growth of the economy.

    He noted, ‘’I think it is high time we have to sit down and thoroughly review the whole gamut of the PSP operations. The fact is that we must be able to speak the truth to one another as this will continually encourage the government to complement what the operators are doing”.

    He added that the time has come for PSP Operators to create an online portal where the GPS receivers installed in their trucks provide accurate locations always including the number of trips undertaken by each operator daily amongst other things.

  • Australia introduces skilled refugee labour agreement pilot program

    Australia introduces skilled refugee labour agreement pilot program

    Australia has introduced a new pilot program to help businesses access skilled talent from refugee and displaced communities. The Skilled Refugee Labour Agreement Pilot allows employers to sponsor skilled individuals for positions in various industries. This initiative provides an opportunity for refugees who have marketable skills but face challenges in meeting visa requirements.  

    According to Australia’s Department of Home Affairs, The pilot will run until June 30th, 2025, with 500 visa places available. 

    Pilot program overview 

    The program was developed in collaboration with Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB), an organization dedicated to helping refugees find skilled work. Through the pilot, businesses can tap into a pool of skilled refugees registered with TBB’s Talent Catalog. These refugees include professionals such as doctors, engineers, software developers, and skilled tradespeople. Many of them are highly qualified but face significant barriers when trying to access employer-sponsored migration pathways. 

    Details inform that TBB will assist businesses with identifying qualified candidates, guiding them through the visa application process, and providing support once the candidate arrives in Australia. Employers and refugees interested in participating must register with TBB, which will endorse both the businesses and the skilled individuals for the program. 

     

    Visa programs available for employers and refugees 

    Employers participating in the pilot can sponsor refugees for various skilled visa programs, including the Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS), Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visa, and Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional (SESR) visa. Employers can also offer positions to refugees on a permanent or temporary basis, with potential pathways to permanent residency after a few years on a provisional visa.  

    The program also includes several concessions to make it easier for businesses to hire skilled refugees. For example, businesses do not need to conduct labor market testing, and the sponsoring employer will determine whether the candidate has the required skills for the position.  

    Additionally, businesses can benefit from a reduction in the income threshold when hiring refugees for certain skill levels. This means they can pay refugees slightly lower salaries than usual, making it more affordable for employers to hire skilled refugees, particularly for jobs with lower income expectations. 

    Eligibility and requirements for employers and refugees 

    To participate, employers must meet several criteria, including being an active, registered business in good standing in Australia for at least 12 months. They must also demonstrate financial viability and comply with sponsorship obligations, which include paying the sponsored refugees a full-time salary and ensuring that their working conditions are no less favorable than those for Australian workers. 

    Refugee applicants must be under 55 years old (except for those applying for a TSS visa), meet health and character requirements, and demonstrate functional English. There is no need for them to provide a skills assessment or work experience; the sponsoring business will evaluate whether the refugee has the necessary qualifications for the job. 

    Support for refugees and employers post-arrival 

    Once a refugee arrives in Australia, sponsoring employers will provide support to help them settle into their new roles and lives. This includes coordinating with TBB and related organizations to assist with the transition. Additionally, the program offers concessions like an increased age limit and a reduced income threshold for employers hiring refugees in specific sectors such as aged care. 

    This pilot program not only helps businesses address skill shortages but also provides skilled refugees with an opportunity to contribute to the Australian economy. The collaboration between Talent Beyond Boundaries and employers intends to foster a more inclusive and diverse workforce in Australia while supporting the long-term success of refugees in their new homes. 

    For more information, businesses and refugees are encouraged to visit:https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/employing-and-sponsoring-someone/sponsoring-workers/nominating-a-position/labour-agreements/skilled-refugee-labour-agreement-program 

    If you have specific questions about the pilot before registering your interest, email info@talentbeyondboundaries.org.