AFRICAN PEACE MAGAZINE

Dr. Jeanne dA ’ rc

Mujawamariya

The Hon. Minister of Environment, of the Republic of Rwanda

Renewable Energy Expansion for a Sustainable Growth

Frances Ikenga

Dr. Jeanne d’arc mujawamariya

RWANDA’S BOLD Initiative too improve Air quality

ANGOLA Accredited in Benin

2024 EDITION African Peace Awards NAMIBIA’S Oil and Gas Boom

amara chidinma EZEDINIRU

H.E. FARUK LAWAL JOBE

Editor’s

Note

AnAfricanproverbsays,Itisimpossibletomakepeace withasword(Kongo–DRCongo).Wewarmlywelcome all our esteemed readers to another edition of African Peace Magazine. We are happy to inform you that we have begun the process of rebranding and transiting into an Organization. The new name would be African PeaceOrganization.

Rwanda is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, lush rainforests, and volcanoes. It is often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Hills." Rwanda is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, and lions. The country is a populardestinationforwildlifesafaris.

Rwanda is known for being one of the cleanest and safest countries in Africa. The government has made significanteffortstoimproveinfrastructureandpromote tourism. Rwanda is ranks 4th in investment attractiveness in Africa. This ranking is based on the latestreportbytheRandMerchantBank(RMB),aleading Africaninvestmentbank.

Rwanda's economy has remained resilient and adaptable, achieving a 7.6% growth rate in 2023. This growth is attributed to the country's strong economic performance and its ability to overcome external and domesticchallenges.Rwanda'seconomyisprojectedto be the 4th fastest-growing in Africa in 2024 This projection is based on the African Development Bank's MacroeconomicReport,whichforecastsagrowthrateof 7.9%.

The National Environment and Climate Change Policy (NECCP) of Rwanda aims to achieve " a clean and healthy environment resilient to climate variability and changethatsupportsahighqualityoflifeforitssociety."

The policy outlines seven key objectives to achieve its goal:

NOAHAjare Editor-in-Chief

*Greeningeconomictransformation

* Enhancing functional natural ecosystems and managingbiosafety

*Promotinggreentechnologiesandgreenprocurement

* Strengthening climate change adaptation and resilience

* Enhancing environmental and climate change governance

*Promotingenvironmentalresearchanddevelopment

*Raisingpublicawarenessandparticipation

Rwanda faces various environmental and climate change challenges, including land degradation, deforestation, reliance on biomass for fuel, soil, water, andairpollution.

InthiseditionwesatwithherExcellency,theHonourable MinisterofEnvironmentDr.Jeanned'ArcMujawamariya.

H.EcurrentlyservesastheMinisterofEnvironmentforthe Republic of Rwanda, appointed in November 2019. Prior to her current role, Dr Mujawamariya served as Rwanda'sAmbassadortoRussiafrom2013to2019.

Dr Mujawamariya is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and efficient natural resource management. She believes these are crucial for achieving sustainable development and a green economy We hope you would enjoy the exclusive interviewandotherscontainedinthisedition.

Thanks

Brief Profile

Dr. Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya

Dr. Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya is the MinisterofEnvironment,oftheRepublicof Rwanda.

PriortoherappointmentinNovember2019, she served as Ambassador of Rwanda in Russia from 2013 and Rector of Kigali Institute of Science and Technology- KIST from(2011-2013).

Dr Mujawamariya Jeanne d'Arc served also as Rwanda's Minister of Gender and Family Promotion (2008-2011); Minister of Education(2006-2008);MinisterofStatein Charge of Higher Education (2005-2006)

andMinisterofStateinChargeofPrimary andSecondaryEducationintheMinistryof Education, Science, Technology and ScientificResearch(2003-2005).

Minister Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya is a PhDholderinPhysical-Chemistryfromthe Indian Institute of Technology-IIT Roorkee, Indi

environment conservation and efficient natural resources development to achieve sustainable development and green growth for Rwanda's socioeconomictransformation.

TellusaboutyourCompany/organisation/ Ministry/Whatyoudo?

Our Ministry's mission is to deliver a better environmentforRwandansandtosafeguard our natural world for future generations. This means protecting our green spaces, preventing deforestation, nurturing our wildlife, improving our air quality, ensuring clean water and, vitally, mitigating and adaptingtoourever-changingclimates

Wearecurrentlyhavingincreaseinglobal c

environment

F

displacementofcommunities,anddisruption of ecosystems, global conflicts often have

With

Dr.

Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya Exclusive Interview

Minister of Environment Republic of Rwanda

deforestation, pollution, and habitat destructionareexacerbatedduringtimes of conflict, leading to long-term environmental consequences that can further perpetuate cycles of instability andunrest.

perpetrated against Tutsi in 1994, we prioritized not only rebuilding our society but also restoring our environment Promoting sustainable practices has since been central to our national agenda, such as rehabilitating our land, protectingourforestsandwildlife,

increasinggreenspacesandadopting anenvironmentallyfriendlylifestyle.Asa matteroffact,overtheyears,thecountry hasconsistentlybeenrecognisedasone ofthegreenestnationsglobally.For instance,initiativesliketheNationalForest PolicyandtheGreenGrowthandClimate ResilienceStrategyhavecontributedto significantincreasesinforestcoverand thepromotionofrenewableenergy sources.Rwanda'sachievementofover 30%forestcoveranditsambitioustarget toachievenet-zerocarbonemissionsby 2050serveasatestamenttoour dedicationtoenvironmentalstewardship.

We hope Rwanda can offer to the world insight into how to integrate environmental considerations into national policy programmes and development plans Specifically, two factorswerekeytooursuccess.Firstly,we

acknowledged and invested in

engagement and ownership in environmentalinitiatives.Andsecondly,we madeapointtocreatespaceforbusiness innovation and adaptation in addressing environmental challenges Promoting innovative solutions such as using biogas technology for cooking and practical solutionslikeincentivisingtheadoptionof electricvehicleswitha100%taxes waiver policy exemplify how governments can align environmental protection with economicprosperity.

Thecreationofcarfreezonesandhaving

“Factorssuchas deforestation,pollution, andhabitatdestruction areexacerbated...leading tolong-termenvironmental consequences

car free days twice a month, have won Rwandadifferentrecognitionsonhowthis small Country combines health and environment. This has tremendously improvedourairqualityandreducednon communicable dis

g Rwandans.

The call for reduction in the use of natural resources and the need for exploration for Africans drawing the redline.

Reducing the exploitation of natural resources is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of our planet, particularly in Africa where the impacts of resource extractionarekeenlyfelt.Drawingaredline entails setting clear boundaries and regulations on the rational extraction of natural resources, while simultaneously promoting alternative, renewable energy sources and encouraging sustainable practices that minimise environmental harm.

InRwanda,wedrawtheredlineby establishingclearboundariesfor resourceexploitationtoprevent irreversibleenvironmentaldegradation. Forexample,in2008and2019we implementedabanonuse,tradeand manifactureplasticshoppingbagsand allsingleuseplasticsconsecutivelywhich hassignificantlyreducedplasticpollution andcontributedtothecleanlinessofour landscapesandwaterways.Indeed,this decisionhastremendouslycontributedto thegreenjobcreationsincemorethan6 plasticrecyclingindustrieswereinitiated.

Our commitment to renewable energy expansion, including hydroelectric power andsolarenergyprojects,underscoresour dedication to reducing reliance on nonrenewable resources and mitigating environmental impacts. Our progress in forest restoration is attributed to rigorous reforestation efforts, community-based conservation initiatives, and strict enforcementoflawsagainstillegallogging and deforestation. And our investment in sustainable agriculture practices, such as terracing, irrigation and agroforestry, has not only enhanced food security but also promoted soil conservation and biodiversitypreservationinRwanda.

ImpactofclimateChangeinAfrica

The impact of climate change in Africa cannotbeignored.Fromextremeweather events,suchasdroughtsandfloods,tothe loss of biodiversity and agricultural productivity, climate change poses a grave threat to our continent' s development and stability Vulnerable communities, particularly those reliant on subsistence agriculture and natural resourcestosupporttheirlivelihoods,bear the brunt of these impacts, exacerbating existingchallengessuchasfoodinsecurity andpoverty.

We've seen climate change in Rwanda taketheformofincreasingfrequencyand intensity of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flooding These eventshaveledtothelossoflives,soil

erosion,cropdamage,andinfrastructure destruction,particularlyinruralareas whereagricultureisaprimarysourceof livelihood.Changesinrainfallpatternsand temperatureshaveproventhattheycan impactagriculturalproductivity, threateningfoodsecurityand exacerbatingpovertyamongvulnerable communities.

How can Africa navigate the climate Changedebatetoherbenefit?

Africa, despite contributing the least to g l o b a l c

b o n e m i

s , disproportiona

e consequences of climate change The international community should provide the necessary support to developing nations to facilitate financial assistance, technology transfer, and capacity building toempowerstrugglingcountriestocombat climatechangeeffectively.

But we can't wait on them to take action. Africancountriescanleveragetheclimate change debate to our advantage by prioritising adaptation and mitigation

environmental challenges, but also foster sustainable development and economic growth tailored to our realities. We must invest in renewable energy infrastructure, preserving air quality, promoting climate-

“ ...wecan't

waiton themtotakeaction. Africancountriescan leveragethe climatechange...

enhancingaccesstocleanwaterand sanitation.

As a means to attract green investments, Rwanda established the Rwanda Green Fund to become a cross sectoral financing mechanism to achieve development objectives of environmentally sustainable, climate resilient and green economic growth. In addition, Rwanda is among the first countries in Africa which developed a carbon market implementation framework to fastrick the quick adoption of carbon market as one of the innovative ways of fundinggreeninitiatives.

Take, for instance, the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol adopted in 2016. By

committing to phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), Rwanda demonstrated proactive leadership in combating climate change. This amendment not only aligns with our commitment to sustainable development but also showcases our capacity to take decisiveactioninaddressingenvironmental challenges.

By building on initiatives like this and implementingtailoredstrategiestoadaptto andmitigatetheimpactsofclimatechange, Africacanleadthewayinforgingaresilient and sustainable future for our people and theplanet.

“Rwandaisamongthefirst countriesinAfricawhichdeveloped acarbonmarketimplementation frameworktofastrickthe quickadoptionofcarbonmarket

Rwanda's Bold

Initiatives Towards Preserving Air Quality

Set Global Standard with 15 air quality monitoring stations providing real-time data, Rwanda leads the way in air quality monitoring.

Inanerawheremorethan90percent of humanity breathes polluted air, Rwanda is taking proactive measures to preserve air quality and combat pollution. Located in East Africa, this small yetdeterminednationhasembarkedona transformative journey towards sustainable development, placing environmentalconservationatitscore.

Rwanda'scommitmenttoprotectingitsair quality is evident through its network of 15 air quality monitoring stations. These stations, equipped with advanced technology, continuously monitor and analyze air pollutants, providing real-time data to policymakers, scientists, and the public through a website and mobile application. This approach not only raises awareness but also empowers individuals and organizations to make informed decisionstoreducepollution.

The Air Quality Monitoring System was designed in collaboration with the MassachusettsInstituteofTechnologyand implemented by Rwanda Environment Management Authority and the Ministry of Education. Different from the figures published by IQAIR, the country wide networkofsensorsprovidesareal-timeAir QualityIndex(AQI)foreachstationinboth numerical and colour code format. The system highlights the dominant air pollutantwhichisresponsibleforairquality degradation during the reported period. This data will allow Rwanda to compare ground observations with satellite data through remote sensing technology to verifytheiraccuracy.

“Weareallresponsibleforthequalityofthe air we breathe. Rwanda's air quality monitoringsystemgivesustheinformation we need to address air pollution, and providesinformationtocitizensaboutthe

status of the air where they live and work. Thistoolhelpsustomeasureandboostthe impact of the interventions we have introduced to reduce air pollution and ensure blue skies for all,” said Dr Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya, Minister of Environment.

The significance of Rwanda's efforts extends beyond its borders, serving as a model for nations facing similar environmental challenges By prioritizing data-driven decision-making, Rwanda demonstrates how technology can be harnessed to address pressing environmentalissueseffectively.

Despite these efforts, International media portrayalofRwanda'sAirqualityoftenfails to accurately reflect the country's actual conditionsduetoalackofverificationwith Rwanda's own real-time data from its Air Quality Monitoring System Despite the availability of precise and up-to-date information,somemediaoutletsneglectto consult Rwanda's Official sources, leading to the dissemination of misleading narrativesaboutRwanda'sAirQuality.

Rwanda uses climate change data and projections to plan for the future Rwanda's initiatives underscore its unwavering commitment to the Paris Agreement and other international accords aimed at combating climate change.Despitebeingadevelopingnation, Rwanda has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and

transitioning towards renewable energy sources, showcasing its determination to contribute meaningfully to global sustainabilityefforts.

Rwanda adopted a Green Growth and Climate Resilience Strategy to become a developed, climate-resilient and lowcarbon economy by 2050. To achieve this goal, the government and its stakeholders are working together to reduce emissions andfosterclimateresilience.

Oneofthestrategy'sprogrammesofaction is'ClimateDataandProjections',whichwas designed to maintain climate change records and provide data to help the country prepare for a warmer world through new technologies and capacity building.

Having access to climate data and projections is essential for Rwanda to respond to climate change using evidence-based policy making. Therefore, severalinstitutionscametogethertotrack and manage climate-related data, including Meteo Rwanda, the Ministry of Education, the Rwanda Environment ManagementAuthority,theRwandaGreen Fund and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT).

Thiseffortincludesregularmeasurements, weather forecast, data management, information sharing and climate knowledgeandeducation.

In addition to technological advancements,Rwandaimplements

comprehensive policies and initiatives to curbairpollution.Theseincludepromoting cleanenergyalternatives,increasingforest cover, enhancing public transportation

infrastructure, and implementing regulations on emissions from industries andvehicles.

Rwanda has so far distributed more than 2.5millionimprovedcookstovestoimprove human health, save firewood and thus reduce pressure on forests. Rwanda has also increased its forest cover to 30.4% through border-to-border restoration and afforestationefforts.

Such holistic approaches underscore Rwanda's understanding that combating air pollution requires a multifaceted strategy encompassing both regulatory frameworksandcommunityengagement.

environmental sustainability aligns with its broader vision for inclusive and equitable development. Recognizing the interconnectedness of environmental health and socioeconomic well-being, the Government of Rwanda integrates environmental considerations into its developmentplans,ensuringthatprogress is achieved without compromising the natural r

generations.

In September 2023, Rwanda launched calibration laboratories for meteorology, hydrology, and air quality monitoring. Calibration ensures that instruments used for weather, hydrology, and air quality measurements provide accurate and reliable data, which is critical for various sectors,includingagriculture,publichealth, disastermanagement,andenvironmental protection.

The Calibration laboratory will support Rwanda's commitment to building a resilient and environmentally sustainable future by enhancing data accuracy, improving decision-making in various sectors, p

development, and contributing to global efforts to address climate change and environmentalchallenges.

“By ensuring the accuracy of our monitoring instruments, we pave the way formorepreciseclimatemodels,whichare essential for inf

d climate policymaking” Minister Mujawamariya added.

The laboratories feature cutting-edge instruments, advanced technology, and a team of highly skilled scientists and technicians It will enable Rwanda to calibrate, validate, and maintain a vast network of weather stations, hydrological sensors,andairqualitymonitoringdevices acrossthenation.

As the world faces the pressing need to tackle environmental degradation, Rwandastandsoutasanexampleofwhat visionary leadership, innovative solutions, and unwavering determination can achieve. By using technology, fostering collaboration,andputtingthewell-beingof itscitizensandtheplanetfirst,Rwandasets a strong example for countries worldwide, encouragingthemtojoininthesharedgoal ofasustainablefuture.

Rwanda's efforts to preserve air quality go beyond borders, showing how individual actions and effective policies can make a significant impact on creating a healthier and more sustainable world for future generations.

Rwanda's dedication to preserving air q

stewardshipbutalsosetsacommendable precedent for nations worldwide. Through its innovative approach, transparent governance, and unwavering resolve, Rwandaemergesasagloballeaderinthe fight against air pollution, inspiring hope

and catalyzing change on a scale that reverberatesfarbeyonditsborders.Asthe world looks towards a future defined by sustainability and resilience, Rwanda stands at the forefront, exemplifying the transformative power of collective action and visionary leadership in safeguarding ourplanetforfuturegenerations.

Rwanda's commitment to maintaining air quality not only demonstrates its dedicationtoenvironmentalprotectionbut also establishes a positive example for other nations. Through its innovative methods, transparent governance, and strong determination, Rwanda has proved that combating air pollution is possible, offeringinspirationanddrivingchangethat extendsfarbeyonditsownboundaries.

Accredited inBenin

ZAU will revitalise relations

TheAmbassadoroftheRepublicofAngola totheRepublicofBenin,residentinAbuja, José Bamóquina ZAU, presented in February,attheMarinaPalaceinCotonou, hisLettersofCredencethatenablehimto exercisediplomacy.

The Letters of Credence were received by HisExcellencyPatriceTalon,Presidentand Commander-in-Chief of the Republic of Benin, as a legal instrument that normalizes his mandate after his appointment on March 7, 2023 by His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola.

José Bamóquina Zau's challenge is to revivediplomaticrelationsandeconomic cooperation between the two countries,

highlighting the need for more Angolan presenceinBeninandviceversa.

AmbassadorBamóquinaZaupresented to President Patrice Talon the lines of termsthatwillguidehisdiplomaticwork with the projection of meetings of the Angola-BeninMixedCommissionto

update the general framework of the CooperationAgreements,thesuppression of visas in diplomatic passports and serviceaswellasboostingbilateraltrade.

President Talon congratulated the new Ambassadorforthechallengeonbehalfof bothpeoples.

Thepreviousday,BamóquinaZaufollowed the same procedure when presenting his Copie d'Usage to the Minister of Foreign AffairsofBeninHisExcellencyOloushegun BakaryAdjadi.

Minister Bakary Adjadi called for the speedy recovery of lost time as a way of

Amb. Zau presenting the letter of credence to the Executive President of The Republic of Benin

dignifying bilateral relations that date backtotheNationalLiberationStruggle.

“We have a history that we should be proud of as African people and the first step is to remove mobility barriers”, maintained the head of Beninese diplomacy.

The Republic of Benin has completely removed the imposition of entry visas on its territory, and as a result of this tourism hasexpandedextraordinarilyasoneofthe mainsourcesofincomealongsidecotton andpineapple,twoagro-exportproducts.

Namibia's Oiland BoomGas

Namibia'soilandgassectorison

t h e v e r g e o f a r a p i d

transformation following

significant discoveries. This has attracted majorplayerslikeShell,TotalEnergies,and Galp, who have made discoveries off the country'ssouthwestcoast.

Namibia has become an exploration hotspot for oil and gas companies due to its promising geological formations. The countryhasyettoproduceanyoilorgas, but these discoveries have generated significantinterest.

Major Oil companies are flocking to

Namibia, excited by the country's plans to open up a major new frontier basin with recent offshore finds ranking among the largestthiscentury.

The southern African country is planning for its

TotalEnergies' (TTEF.PA), opens new tab giant Venus field in 2029/2030, its petroleum commissioner Maggy Shino said.

In the most recent strike, Portugal's Galp Energia (GALP.LS), opens new tab said it had found at least 10 billion barrels of oil equivalentinitsMopanefield,inthelargely

unexploredOrangeBasin.

"It is one of the newest and most attractive areas being explored by the industry and we are very excited bythediscoveriessofar,"JamesParr, vice president for new ventures exploration and development at Woodside Energy, told Reuters in an interview.

"The oil is potentially some of the lowest carbon barrels being found currentlysoonthespectrumofoilits very attractive. There seems to be abundantgaswhichisalsopartofour transition and a big focus for Woodside,"Parradded.

Woodside is evaluating data before committing to drill in PEL 87 offshore Namibia and expects to make a decision by June or July, he said on thesidelinesofanenergyconference.

Energy Minister Tom Alweendo said anycleanenergyshiftshouldfactorin Namibia's goals and priorities as it also strives towards net zero carbon emissions.

“Wedeserveanenergytransitionthat takes a pragmatic approach to resolving energy poverty by making ourownnaturalresourcespartofthe solution," he told delegates at the event.

U.S.oilmajorChevron(CVX.N),opens new tab is expected to begin explorationinNamibialaterthisyear, with Exxon Mobil (XOM.N), opens new tab aiming to follow in 2025, commissionerShinosaid Namibia's oil and gas sector has become a best prospect industry, attractingmajorplayerslikeShelland sparking a global investment rush. This indicates strong potential for futuredevelopment.

Thecurrenthighoilpricesandchronic lack of investment in exploration makeNamibiaanattractiveprospect for investors. The potential for further discoveriescouldleadtoasignificant oilboom.

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nationshasbeenslowtobereceived–ifat all. Ahead of last year's COP27 meeting, African nations called richer countries out for failing to meet the $100bn promised in 2020, labelling the failure as “shameful”. After all, the Global North is predominantly responsiblefortheconsequencesAfricans are facing due to climate change

Abandoned promises to invest in African development cause even more suffering and holds the continent back from its full potential.

As an advisor to African governments, the speechesandstatementsIhaveobserved

No More Empty Promises

By Jillian Nystedt Consultant, Crestview Strategy

It'ssummitseasonandpoliticalleaders arejettingallovertheworldtodiscussthe top geopolitical issues: from the war in Ukrainetoclimatechange,migrationand economicsecurity.ButforAfricanleaders, willallthetalkleadtothesameoutcome: the Global South paying the price for Westerninaction?

Previously, pledged support to African

in the past few weeks about the need to treat Africa as an equal partner on the global stage echo what I've been hearing for ages For too long the international political system has been stacked against Africa What Western leaders fail to acknowledgeisthattheywillmissoutinthe longrunifwedon'tinvestinAfricanow.

During the Summit on a New Global Financing Pact in Paris, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa criticised the unwillingness of Western organisations to provideCovidvaccinestotheGlobalSouth duringtheheightofthepandemic.Hesaid

thatAfricannationsfeltlike“beggars”when Westerncountriesboughtuptheavailable vaccines and proceeded to resist African ambitionstomanufacturenewones.

He said, “We kept saying: what is more important, life or profits by your big pharmaceutical companies? That too, I musttellyou,generatedanddeepenedthe disappointment and resentment on our part,becausewefeltlikelifeintheNorthern Hemisphere is much more important than lifeintheGlobalSouth.”

It seems that time and time again, after advocating for African development and resilience,theWestcreatesandmaintains systemsthatreinforceAfricandependence on the West. This is why, during the same summit, Kenyan President William Ruto called for a restructuring of the global

financial system to actually empower African countries to tackle some of the greatestissuesfacingcivilisationtoday.

Take migration, a sizzling hot topic where I liveintheUK.Weknowthatglobalmigration trendsstemfrombothclimatechangeand political instability, but governments are fixatedonaddressingtheimmediateeffect on them, like people showing up on their shores, and as a result, are not doing enoughtoaddresstherootsofthecrisis.So insteadofimplementingshort-termfixesto stop migrants on the last step of their journey, the nations overwhelmed with migrants might invest in development at thesource.

We know this approach works. Just look at Rwanda which has made a remarkable transformationoverthepast25years

following significant investment in its infrastructure, governance and culture Rwandanowprovidesrefugeformorethan 130,000 refugees from both neighbouring countries like the DRC and faraway countrieslikeAfghanistan.

Allofthisisnottosaythattherehavebeen no successes in Western policy towards Africa Just last month in Paris, Zambia sealed a milestone deal to restructure $3.6bnindebt,settinganewprecedentfor indebted nations across the globe. But individual fixes cannot replace the implementation of a macro strategy to achieve the outcomes needed to bring Africaitslong-awaitedequality.

The West continues to lecture Africa for accepting no-s

n

s-at

a

hed investment from nations it disagrees with, suchasChina,whilemaintainingacolonial mindset and hesitating to fund African development.IfWesterninvestorscontinue to maintain a system stacked against Afr

multinational corporations, the West, and civilisation as a whole, will lose out on the greatestpayoffofourtime.

Abiola Metilelu

Tellusyourname. MynameisAbiolaMetilelu

Tellusaboutyoureducation

I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Lagos State University, and MBA Masterclass in Entrepreneurship from LondonSchoolofBusiness&Finance,andMSc in Political Economy and Development StudiesfromNasarawaStateUniversity,Keffi,

Nasarawa State, Nigeria. I am a Fellow of Chartered Economists of Nigeria, Institute of Management Consultants, Institute for Humanitarian Studies and Social Development, and Institute of Business Intelligence and Leadership Consulting. I am also a UK Certified Project ManagementProfessional–andcurrently runningmyLLB(Hons)LawWithBusinessin pursuit of the nurtured ambition to becomealawyer.

Yourbusiness?

Iamamanofmanyhats. Afterresigning fromthebankin2009,Iwentintoprivate

practiceinManagementConsultingwith HEMPAWACONSULTandledtheteamfor over12yearsasthePrincipalConsultant–withourcorebusinessesaroundProject andProcessManagement,HumanCapital ManagementandProcurement Management.

With a visionary zeal and a penchant for disruptive ideas and groundbreaking innovations, I co-founded PressPayNg in 2021 and transitioned into tech entrepreneurship. PressPayNg is the foremost and leading social innovation that focuses on education banking and financing solutions in Africa, solving education funding problems for parents, guardians, students, and youths –democratizing access to education and scaling human capital development

acrossthecontinent.

The PressPayNg App has become the education piggy bank of parents, guardians, students and youths across Africa,incentivizingthemtosaveforschool fees by opening dedicated education savings accounts, access (seamless and stressless) single digit (9%p.a) education/student loans, crowdfund school fees, benefit education scholarship (fromlocalandglobaldonororganizations as well as individuals ), enjoy free Softskill trainings, subscribe to student-friendly healthandeducationinsurance.

Yourimpactinthesociety

Our impact on society extends far beyond ensuring that Nigerian students have access to quality education through our well-tailorededucationfinancingsolutions, wearedeeplycommittedtoleveragingour platform and resources to foster positive change and contribute to the betterment of our society and build a community of well-rounded students that will contribute positively to the society. it encompasses a vision of empowerment, inclusivity, and sustainable progress for all Nigerian students.

One of the key pillars of our impact on societyisourdedicationtoacademic

inclusion.Inacountrywhereasignificant portionofthepopulationremains uneducatedandthedropoutrateis skyrocketing,werecognizethe importanceofprovidingaccessibleand affordableeducationfinancingservicesto allstudents,parents,andphilanthropists, regardlessoftheirgeographiclocation. ThroughthePressPayNg,wehavebeen abletobridgethegapbetween thousandsofNigerianstudentsand academicsuccess,empoweringmillions ofparentstofullyfundtheirward's education.

Inthelasttwoyearsofoperation,wehave helped to flatten the out-of-school curve andeducationdrop-outratewithcloseto 10,000 school fee payment counts, and about2,000scholarshipbeneficiariesfrom over 17,000 applications We have successfully graduated 2 cohorts of our Free Softskill Training and created job opportunities for our Study-Work and Student Ambassador Community, providing them workplace readiness advantageandtheopportunitytoearnas they learn Our solution and corporate

obje

h Sustainable Development Goals (4,3,5,1,9)

onQualityEducation,GoodHealth,Gender Equality, No Poverty, Industry, and Innovation.

Whatdoespeacemeantoyou?

Peacetome,isnottheabsenceofconflict but the presence of harmony, justice, mutual respect among individuals and communities, and the general ability to resolve conflict amicably Peace means creating an environment where every Nigerian feels safe, valued, and empowered to pursue their aspirations without fear of discrimination or violence. We recognize that sustainable development is impossible without peace andstability,therefore,ourwork goeshand in hand with promoting peace by empowering financially unstable students withskillsetsthatwillhelpthemstandfirm in society and contribute to the economic growthofthenation.

What'syouradviceforthe youth;Japaisthenewnorm inNigeriawhat'syourtake?

Inlightoftherecenttrendof youthmigration,oftenreferred toas"Japa,"werecognizethe

“ Fostering peace requires a commitment to justice,accountability, and respect for human rights.

factorsdrivingthisphenomenon.The decisionofyoungNigerianstoseek greenerpasturesabroadreflectsthe harshrealitiesofunemployment, economicinstability,andlimited opportunitiesinourcountry.Whilethe allureofbetterprospectsoverseasis understandable,itisessentialto acknowledgetheconsequencesofbrain drainonournation'sdevelopment.

My advice to the youth, especially amidst the prevalence of Japa, is to remain resilientandproactiveinshapingthefuture ofNigeria.Ratherthanviewingmigrationas the only pathway to success, I urge young Nigerians to channel their energy and talents towards driving positive change within our borders We must work collectively by advocating for policies that promote job creation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth. By harnessing our collective potential and fostering innovation and creativity, we can create a Nigeria where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfullytothisnation.

HowcanweachievepeaceinNigeria?

Achieving peace in Nigeria requires a holistic approach that addresses the underlying issues contributing to conflict and instability. Firstly, we must prioritize i ve governance and ensure that the nclusi voices of all Nigerians, especially marginalized groups, are heard and

representedindecision-makingprocesses.

Additionally, there is a need for concerted effortstotackletherootcausesofviolence, including poverty, inequality, and marginalization Investing in education, youth empowerment, and community development initiatives can help address theunderlyinggrievancesthatfuelconflict andpromotesocialcohesion.

Fosteringpeacerequiresacommitmentto justice, accountability, and respect for human rights We must strengthen our institutions and uphold the rule of law to ensure that perpetrators of violence are held accountable, and victims receive justice and restitution. Building trust and fostering a sense of national unity among Nigeria'sdiversepopulationstartswithyou andI,onepersonatatime.

Iamproudofthepositiveimpactwehave madeinsocietyandourongoingeffortsto promotepeace,prosperity,andprogressin Nigeria By championing education financing solutions for all with the PressPayNg App, advocating for youth empowerment, and supporting initiatives aimed at building peace, we are contributing to the collective efforts to create a brighter and more prosperous future for all Nigerians. Together, we can overcome our challenges and realize the fullpotentialofourgreatnation.

Investment Opportunities inRwanda

Rwandaisalandlocked country in eastcentral Africa, known for its stunning scenery and nicknamed "the land of a thousandhills."Itliessouthoftheequatorin the Great Rift Valley and is bordered by Uganda,Burundi,theDemocraticRepublic ofCongo,andTanzania.

Rwandahasacomplexhistory,includinga period of monarchy and a devastating genocideinthe1990s.Today,thecountryis working to rebuild and is known for its progress in areas like technology and environmentalprotection.

People and Culture: Rwanda is a diverse countrywithapopulationofover13million

people The official languages are Kinyarwanda, English, and French The majorityofthepopulationisChristian,with a significant minority adhering to traditionalbeliefs.

Growing Economy: Rwanda's economy hasbeensteadilygrowinginrecentyears, withaGDPgrowthrateof8.6%in2022.This growth is expected to continue in the coming years, making Rwanda an attractivedestinationforinvestors.

Strategic Location: Rwanda is located in the heart of Africa, making it an ideal hub for businesses looking to access the East Africanmarket.Thecountryalsohasawell-

developedinfrastructure,includingamodernairportandroadnetwork.

Government Support: The Rwandan government is committed to attracting foreign investmentandhasputinplaceanumberofincentivestoencouragebusinessestosetup operationsinthecountry.Theseincentivesincludetaxbreaks,landgrants,andaccessto financing.

InvestmentopportunitiesinRwanda

Fromsourcesacrosstheweb

Joinusforadayfilledwithopportunities,connections,andinsightsintothe futureofinternationalinvestments!

WhatAwaitsYou:

•KeynoteAddressesbyIndustryLeaders

•ExclusiveInvestmentOpportunities

•NetworkingwithGlobalBusinessInfluencers

•UnveilingRwanda'sBusinessLandscape

Don'tmissoutonthischancetobepartofadynamicforumshapingthe pathforinternationalinvestments.Let'sexplorenewhorizonsandbuild connectionsthatmatter!

SavetheDate:August23rd,2024

Venue:Kigali,Rwanda

forfurtherinquiries:

EmbarkonatransformativejourneyatTheHague,Netherlands,wherethehallsofjusticeecho withthepromiseofinnovation.ProudlysponsoredbyAfricanPeaceMagazine,UK. Thisworkshoptranscendsboundariestoexplorethesynergybetweenlawandtechnology.

EventHighlights:

*InsightfulDiscussions:UncoverthedepthsofAI'spotentialinreshapingjusticedeliveryand combatingfinancialcrimesthroughthought-provokingdialogues.

* Interactive Workshops: Dive into hands-on sessions, empowering legal practitioners, investigators,andjudgeswiththetoolstonavigatetheevolvinglandscape.

* Networking Galore: Connect with global minds, fostering collaborations that transcend bordersandstrengthenthecollectivepursuitofjustice.

*InspirationalKeynotes:Absorbthewisdomofleadersshapingthefutureoflegaltechnology, unravelingthemysteriesofAIinthejusticesystem.

SavetheDate:22nd-24thAUGUST,2024

Location: The Hague, NetherlandsThis workshop is not just an event; it's a symphony of intellects,aconvergenceoflegalmindscommittedtoleveragingAIforamorejustworld. RevolutionizeJustice.EmbraceAI

forfurtherinquiries:

Amara Chidinma Ezediniru

LeadConsultantatRaldandVidConsultingLtd.

1. Tellusyourname

MynameisAmaraChidinmaEzediniru.

2. Tellusaboutyoureducation

Amara C. Ezediniru is an esteemed executive, renowned for her expertise in HR consultancy, strategic leadership, and workforce optimization for exponential development. With a strong academic background, Amara completed her education at Federal Government Girls CollegeGboko,InstitueofManagementand Technology, University of Maiduguri, University of Nottingham, National Open University of Nigeria, and Nigeria Defence

Academy. She holds multiple degrees in marketing,humanresourcesmanagement, education,andbusinessadministration.

Passionate about human capacity development, Amara's career journey has been diver

. She transitioned from corporate sales to the classroom, where she dedicated herself to shaping the minds of early years, primary,

contributed significantly to various privately-owned schools, emphasizing the practical application of classroom knowledgetoeverydaylife.

3. Yourbusiness?

Through her exceptional leadership and dedication, Amara progressed from the classroom to school administration and management, assuming a leadership role at Danbo International School Abuja Additionally, she founded The Teachers Finishing School, an organization committed to empowering and upskilling educators, aiming to transform the educationlandscape.

Amara's expertise extends beyond education,assheisalsoacertifiedHuman Resourcesprofessionalandadistinguished member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria. As the lead consultant at Rald and Vid Consulting Ltd.

4. Whatdoespeacemeantoyou?

“ we must strive to be agents of change, promoting peace and unity in our daily lives. We must also support initiatives that bring people together and foster a sense of belonging.

Peace, to me, is a state of harmony and balance.Itistheabsenceofconflictandthe presence of understanding, tolerance, and respectforoneanother.Inaworldfilledwith diversity,peaceiswhatallowsustocoexist andthrive.

5. What'syouradvicefortheyouth?

My advice to the youth is to be bold, take calculated risks, and never give up on their dreams.Theyoutharethefutureleadersof our society, and it is crucial that they are equippedwiththerightmindsetandskillsto make a positive impact. I encourage them tobeinnovative,tothinkoutsidethebox,and toalwaysstriveforexcellence.Theyhaveto study history, learn from experiences to forge a more productive future. Learning hastobeacontinuousmindsetforthem.

6. Japa is the new norm in Nigeria what'syourtake?

Everyonewantsabetterlife,everyonehasa right to gravitate towards what they perceiveisintheirbestinterest.

7. How can we achieve peace in Nigeria

Achieving peace in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach. It involves addressing the root causes of conflict, promoting education and economic empowerment, and fostering a culture of toleranceandunderstanding.Wemustalso work towards building a strong and accountablegovernmentthatisresponsive to the needs of its citizens. Additionally, community development projects that promote unity and social cohesion are crucial.

8. Addanythingyouwant

Inconclusion,Ibelievethatweallhavearole to play in achieving peace in Nigeria. As

individuals, we must strive to be agents of change, promoting peace and unity in our daily lives. We must also support initiatives that bring people together and foster a senseofbelonging.Together,wecanbuilda brighter and more peaceful future for ourselvesandforgenerationstocome.

Amara Chidinma Ezediniru

LeadConsultantatRaldandVidConsultingLtd.

In2023,Rwanda'sairqualitystatusshowsnotableimprovementscomparedtotheprevious year of 2022, as evidenced by data collected and analyzed by the Rwanda Environment ManagementAuthority(REMA)

REMA, through its network of 18 air quality (AQ) stations spread across the country, continuously monitors and collects real-time air quality data since 2019. The analysis 3 conductedrevealedadecreaseintheconcentrationofPM pollutantsfrom30.1µg/m in 2.5 3 2022to25.8µg/m in2023.

On the contrary, IQAIR's reports for the same period highlighted a different finding. In their reportof2022,Rwandawasranked13thglobally by IQAIR, with a PM concentrations of 440 25 3µg/m Their 2023 report still placed Rwanda at 15th position but recorded a lower PM2 5 3 concentrationsof36.8µg/m

ThesourceofIQAIR'sdataisunknownbuttheydo mention that it can be from individual citizens and this is a red flag since the individual can place the sensor anywhere which can be the source of biased data. Therefore, while IQAIR's data collection involves real-time monitoring supplemented by historical year-end datasets, the reliability of these sources may vary, potentiallyleadingtodiscrepancies.

REMA's approach, on the other hand, relies on the data collected through its established Air quality stations, providing a more consistent and reliable dataset. This reliance on first hand, realtime data ensures accuracy and consistencyinassessingRwanda's airqualitystatus.

Due to the mentioned differences it is important to consider the methodologyandsourcesofdata whenevaluatingairqualitystatus.

Analysis&Conclusion

In conclusion, any AQ report/s availablegloballyareinformedby the different data sources The selection of where to put the monitordependsontheinterestof theperson/organization.

Yes, Rwanda's air quality exceeds the standards of the WHO annual guidelines but cannot be

comparedtothefigurespublished byIQAIR.

Unverified information shows that IQAIRgetsthedatafromSonatube ShellStation,NeartheUSEmbassy and at Brachetto Restaurant (which can even be in the kitchen with high sources of PM ). Three 2.5 points is not enough to rank the country, the sensors are not even for regulation purposes and they might not even be calibrated as needed. All the above makes the report–Unreliable.

N12,000

Angola-Benin

Minister wants visa suppression

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Benin Oloushegun Bakary Adjadi defended in Cotonouthesuppressionofvisasbetween AngolaandBenintoboostthedynamicsof theireconomies.

Duringanaudienceonthesidelinesofthe celebrations of the 4th of April, Day of Peace and National Reconciliation, granted to Ambassador José Bamóquina Zau, Oloushegun Adjadi, proposes a positive transformation of bilateral relations with the removal of politicaldiplomaticbarriersthatimpedethespeed ofAfrica'sgrowth.

“IcongratulatetheAngolanpeopleon the Day of Peace and National Reconciliation. Without peace there is no development”, declared the government official, who believes that Angola must take advantage of its stabilitytoencouragethefreemobility ofSouth-SouthEconomicOperators.

HepointedtotheAngolanairlineTAAG asanexcellentexampleofmobilityand African connection that can positively transform the speed of our relations. “Let us work together to remove these barriers so that businessmen can movefreely”,saidMinisterOloushegun BakaryAdjadi.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs agreed with AmbassadorBamóquinaZau'sproposalfor the Angola-Benin Joint Commission to meet in the coming months to overcome the political, diplomatic and legal barriers that prevent the revitalization of bilateral relations.

The Republic of Benin completely lifted the imposition of visas on all African countries within its territory and as a consequence tourism and economic growth indicators soaredexponentially.

The last update of the Cooperation Agreementsbetweenthetwocountrieswas in 2008 during the State Visit of former President Thomas Boni Yayi (2006/2016) to theRepublicofAngola.

A Visa Application and Investment Attraction Center was opened in the NigeriancityofPortHarcourtaspartof thecelebrationsofthe4thofApril,Day of Peace and National Reconciliation, toeliminatetripstoAbujaandLagos.

The Center, which is a partnership between the Embassy of Angola in Nigeria and the Company Akwa HelmesInternationalLimited-AHIL,has capabilities for applying visas, boosting investment attraction, supportingtheoilandgasindustry,as well as promoting sun tourism -e-sea andadventure.

Itsservicesextendtohotelreservations andticketsalesandairconnectionsto destinations operated by the national carrierTAAG.

Angola

VisaApplicationand InvestmentCenterNowopened

inPortHarcourt,Nigeria

Businessmen, academics and oil and gas industrialists were invited by Ambassador BamóquinaZautowitnesstheopeningofacenter foreconomic,culturalandtouristrapprochement betweenAngolaandNigeria.

ThecityofPortHarcourtinRiversState(withabout 10millioninhabitants),isnestledbetweenthevast Niger River Delta where the main petroleum and petrochemicalindustries,twolargestate-owned

refineries, two seaports, universities and scienceandtechnologyinstitutes.

Itisinthisregionthatmostofthebusinessmen and technicians in the oil and gas industries operating in Angola come from But local authorities want to increase academic cooperation with training institutes and technicalinternshipsintheoilandgasindustry.

The region has the second largest port in Nigeria and a narrow-gauge eastern railway projectstretching2,044.1kilometerstoconnect the port of Port Harcourt with Northern Maiduguri, Borno State, passing through 12 states and numerous major cities from the eastern, central and northern regions of Nigeria.

His Excellency

FARUK LAWAL JOBE

Governor, Katsina State, Nigeria

Deputy

Interview with

FARUK LawalJobe

Deputy Governor, Katsina State, Nigeria

HowhasitbeenhereinAngola?

Well, it has been a wonderful experience meeting, discussing with the minds, technocrats,politiciansandthetechnical team So, it has been a wonderful experience

Thankyou,yourExcellency

Whatisyourviewonpeace?

For me peace is everything and then it is only when you have peace that you can dothenextthingthatyouwanttodo.So,it is a foundation for whatever you want to do. For us as politicians, from independencetothistimeinNigeria,alot of people have been talking about infrastructure ranging from roads to

hospitals name them all. Before now we had peace virtually everywhere, but now we have security challenges across the country. In every geopolitical zone you haveoneproblemortheothersoyoufind us talking about peace more often than ever, we want to have peace so that people can go about their normal businesses. For us in Katsina, what we promisethepeopleofKatsinaduringthe electioneering campaign is that even if we have to spend the last kobo that was accruedtothetreasury,ifthatwilltakeus towhereweshouldbeintermsofpeace, wearereadytodoitandthepeoplehave welcomed it so nobody has raised any objection.Thatistotellyouthatpeace

means everything to our people now, using a lot of strategies, sensitization, advocacy, the carrot stick approach is yielding results over time and I think we should be able to overcome it The strategies we have embarked on in the journey may be tough but the outcome willbebetterforeveryoneofus

ThankyouforExcellency,peaceisindeed everything.

Nigeria and Angola are the two oil producing giants of Africa but you ' ve gone around the streets of Nigeria including literally all the states in Nigeria,youhavealsogonearoundthe streetsofLuandathecapitalofAngola andyou'veseenthatthereispovertyin Nigeria there's poverty also in Angola despitethefactthatthetwocountries are oil producing nations and giants whatdoyouthinkorhowdoyouthink we people can benefit from the oil revenuesthatitwilltrickledowntothe masses?

You see, what I've seen in Angola is mind bugling, A very small country one of the mostrichesintermsofnaturalresources

particularly the oil but with an undiversified economy, you see a lot of poverty.SoInmyview,NigeriaandAngola needs to do something urgently to address this. we should use the proceed from the oil revenue to diversify our revenuesourceswehavenooptionthan

to look at other resources that are available in these two countries extract them see how we can gainfully employ ourpeopleandcreateaneconomythatis sustainableanddiversifiedthat'swhatwe needtodo

Thank you so much your Excellency, talking about

, Nigeria and Angola are rich in natural r

energyinthisconference,we'vetalked aboutoilandgasnowwearelookingat renewable energy because we know that very soon fossil fuel will run dry, people are embracing green energy and Katsin

generating electricity and renewable energy.Canyoutellusalittlebitabout that?

Youseewehaverealizedtheneedforus to diversify, and to also look for an alternative to fossil fuel and that's why we'relookingatsolarenergyourgovernor would have been here but he has gone outtolookforinvestors,peoplewhoare

“ ...peaceiseverything andthenitisonlywhen youhavepeacethat youcandothenext thingthatyouwanttodo

willing to come and invest in the alternative energy like the solar energy. We also had a project embarked by the Umaru Musa Yaradua administration for generation of energy. There's a project somewhere around Katsina which of coursewhenitiscompletedthetargetis to give 10 megawatts of electricity using thewindandsoalsootherthingsthatwe arelookingat.Itisourgoaltodiversifyour economyassuchwehavetogiveitallit takes to harness all the resources and talents to show that we have alternative towhateverwearedoingtoday

Your Excellency, oil and gas is a topic thatattractsattentionbutmostpeople donotknowthatAngolaisalsorichin agricultural products. Agriculture is one of the areas, because they have a large land mass that is very rich in producingagriculturalproductsalsoin Nigeria. So what would we advise the youths that are just talking about oil gas?

YouseeforusinNigeriawhetherwelikeit or not we should look at the agricultural

valuechain,wehavetobeself-sufficient. For production we should de-emphasize import of whatever kind of commodity that we can produce locally. In my view Government should stop importation of whatever agricultural produce, our soil is veryfertilewehaveaverylargelandmass thatwecanproducevirtuallyeverythingif you take some sample of some states particularly in the north you can grow whatevercropthatyouwanttogrowthis has been tested and proven So a situationwherebyweallowimportationof agricultural produce it will take us to wherever we want to go to so the only quickest way to provide employment opportunities to our teaming youth is to look at the agricultural value chain from processingtoexportproductionusingthe mechanized way; you have to introduce form

agriculturalvaluechainandwiththatyou can be able to export our agricultural produce Now we ' re talking about the exchange rates, our naira is losing value dailysoinmyownopinionthebestwayto addressthisissueistostimulateexportof

agricultural produce because the reliance on oil revenue alone is a main source of getting the dollar and it'll not take us anywhere in terms of addressing theissueofdevaluationofnairabutwhen you stimulate agricultural activities you look at the agricultural value chain from marketing to give you an export that will be attractive for an exchange and that would reduce the pressure on the naira twowaysyouhavemoneycominginand you have less demand for foreign exchange which is the dollar so the quickestwayisforthegovernmenttolook at this as soon as possible and this you can be able to achieve within the next watercyclesointheagricultureyoucan be able to do it because agriculture you don't have to rely on the raining season alone you have to look at the irrigation system so that all year round you can engage people, you give them employment they can pay themselves,

theexcessyouexportbutIthinkwehave nooptionasacountrythantolookatthis, it'ssomethingthatweneedtoaddressas quicklyaspossible. ThankyouagainyourExcellency

TalkingaboutagriculturewhichIagree with you that it is it is one of the sure ways to stabilize the economy and to stabilize the naira but I'm also aware that most of the farmers are either being chased away from the farm or being kidnapped so how do we tackle insecurity,particularlyinthefarms?So that if people can go back to the farm withoutbeingafraidthattheywilleither bekidnappedorkilled.

You see for us in Katsina we have these issues that you mentioned. We have the issueofcattlerustlingwhichlargelyaffect the farmers. we also have the issue of kidnappingbutwelookattheforemost

securityarchitecturealotofinitiativealot of commitments a lot of resources are being committed to us solving that problembutitdidn'ttakeustowherewe wanted to be during our campaign. We have34localgovernmentinKatsinastate 361politicalwardsthroughouteverylocal government we made a program for 34 days and we made sure we pass it in every local government and throughout allthevillagesaroundsomakeitatotalof 361 wards. we saw a lot of things that is touching when you interact with people, weseethattheyaregoingthroughalotof issues, they have a checkpoint of the military while we even had to cross over and we met the bandits, you have a militarycheckpointclosetothatplaceso wesawthemeyetoeyeandnothingwas done to them at the time when the previousgovernmentevendeclaredthat whoever is seen with an AK47 should be shot at sight but nothing like that happened. When you engage them they tellyoualotofstoriessowelookatitand wehavetoinitiatesomethingthatwillgive

ustheneededpeacethatweneedinthe state.

Wecameupwiththeideaoftrainingthe locals in Katsina, out of the 34 local government we have eight local government that are close to the Rugo forest bordering some other state of Zamfara, Kaduna, Niger and Sokoto and the rest so we have eight local government bordering that forest, so we decided that we should recruit from the locals,trainthemandthenintegratethem intothesociety.Wealsoresourcethemin terms of catering, kitting them, providing them with firearms and they are working insynergywiththesecurityagenciesthis will have started within the last two months and it's yielding the kind of result that we want because the issue now is when you recruit from the local government especially those villages around the forest these people who are engaged in this criminality are known people because they have been part of thepeoplesowhenyoubringasoldier

“

...In

myviewGovernment shouldstopimportation ofwhateveragricultural produce...

maybe from somewhere maybe AkwaIbomoranypartofthecountrywhoisnot usedtotheterrainwhodoesn'tevenknow the people so we said that okay we can use a combination of security and structure but let's sanitize for the locals, the locals know these people and they cangoafterthemthedifferencebetween them are the weapons they are carrying so we now said okay let's train them and equip them so that they can go out with the conventional security and this is I tell youisyieldingresultssomeonewastelling metherewasapublicationononeofthe internationalratingagencythatfocuson securityhesaidwithinthelasttwomonths ourratinghascomedownfromthelevel of insecurity drastically and this is because of this initiative. We are now synergizing with the other states bordering Katsina particularly Sokoto, ZamfaraandKadunaweareurgingthem to do the same so that we can have peace around the region and a lot of themhavecomeovertherewiththiskind ofinitiativeandbytimewehaveaholistic approachtotheissueitshouldbeathing ofthepastsopeoplewillnowgobackto theirfarmsdowhateveractivitythatthey want to do without being harassed as theywerebeenharassedbefore.

Thank you so much your Excellency for thatbrilliantresponse.

I read somewhere that the Almajiri system and then the lack of formal

educationfortheyouthatsomelevelis what is a major triggering factor for them to join these gangs and violent extremism,isthattrue?

it'snottrue,Almajiri,isanIslamicformof education which is unlike the formal education.Whyhaveagraduatethatrely onsomeonetoemployhim?Butthenthey are artisans, they learn one trade or the other as they are doing it they are also engaginginsomeotherskillacquisitions, which makes them self-sufficient. There was a survey that was done, I think by some lecturers from Bayero University Kano they discovered that about 80% of the local traders that we have, have undergonethisformalsystem,thissystem make them self-sufficient. They have not been certified to carry certificate and go around looking for job but they are certifiedtoearnaleavingontheirown.

Whatwearetryingtodonowistoaddress theissueofpoverty.Somewhowanttogo to school you look out for school for their childrenandenrollthemintotheformal

“...weshouldusethe proceedfromtheoil revenuetodiversify ourrevenuesources...

school system and then those of them who want to engage in one trade or the other you support them that's why our governor Nicongoro Rada decided to create an agency of smaller medium enterprise because we saw a lot of opportunitiesinthatsectorwhereyoucan support small businesses and then support other individuals who are also willingtoearnalivelihood

Thank you so much Your Excellency, NigeriansarerunningtoEuropethere's a slogan now they call it “Japa syndrome” people are leaving Nigeria enmassoverseaswhileIalsodidastory IdiscoveredthatalotofLebanese,alot of foreigners are flourishing in Nigeria whilst Nigerians are leaving, they are rushing in meaning that there is

something they are seeing in Nigeria that Nigerians are not seeing, they're making good money while the youths aretryingtoJapa?

You see I think one of the motivating factors may be the exchange rate now theylookatthevalueoftheNairaversus thedollarbutwhattheywouldencounter iswhattheydon'tknowuntilwhentheyget there.

When they travel they make dollars, but mostofthetimetheyspenditthere.When you compare the standard of living in Nigeria and any other place you go you will know that here is better, is there anywhere were you can eat with 1,000 Naira? You are better of being in Nigeria thanbeinginanyofthesecountries. Though you can earn the dollar but the costoflivingisextremelyhigh.Bothin

terms of health care, housing and all, Nigeriaisstillfarbetter.

The present government in Nigeria is embarking on a lot of reforms, the reformsaremakingthecountryalittle bit uncomfortable at the moment but analysts have said that people should endurebecauseinthelongruntheywill enjoyit, whatdoyouwanttosayabout that?

you see we should be positive about whatever is happening today and we shouldfindawayinsteadofcriticizingthe government we should provide constructivesuggestionsonwayforward because our leaders are not angels sent byGodtheyarehumanbeingslikeusbut youseewhenthesedecisionsarebadyou will need to persevere, it's just like let me put it this way if someone has a fracture andyousaytreatingtheleg,itwillbevery painful, will you allow him to stop treatment because the process is painful?Nobutit'sbetterforhimtoendure it, to endure treatment rather than allowing him to stay with the fracture whichmayleadtoamputationoftheleg, so changes are not done that way and whensituationsarebadalotofsacrifices and commitment has to be made and peoplehavetopersevereandasIsaidif ourleadersaregoingonthewrongpath we should advice on what needs to be done, but we don't have to say that nothing should be done and remain in

“...youcanearnthedollar butthecostoflivingis extremelyhigh...Nigeria isstillfarbetter

thatkindofsituationandnobodywillwant toseeNigerianotmovingforwardsothe bestwaytodoitisforustohaveinputsin everydecisionthegovernmentismaking but rather than doing that we're always complainingthatthingsarebad.

Peoplearecomplainingofthehighcostof living but what I keep telling them is that most of these people are in two categories; the first is the civil servants whoearnsalaryandpeoplewhodon'tdo anythingtoearnaliving.

Why I'm saying this is if you are a civil servantandyoursalaryis200,000nairait hasnotincreasedwithinthelast2-3years

but the cost of your purchases keeps increasingwithadecreasingvaluedueto inflation. But if along the line you have created something that brings you income like farming, cattle rearing, goat, chicken and whatever take for instance whatwasthepriceofachicken2-3years agoandwhatisthepricetoday?

If you are buying consistently then you haveaproblembutifyouareaproducer youarealsogoingtosellatapremiumto someone who was selling a ram 50,000 naira 2-3 years in Katsina is selling that same size of ram 200,000 naira today so whytheyarecomplainingisbecausethey don'thavearam,theydon'tproduceit. Wemustfindawayofdiversifying,lookat someotherthingthatweneedtodoand notjustrelyonthesalaryalone. Therearemanyotherthingsthatyoucan do. You don't have to rely on one single

sourceforsubsistence.Gonearethedays where someone will be gainfully employedandsaythattheemployerwill takeresponsibilityforwhateverhewants.

For me I said two category people are complaining today and I challenge people, I say go to any city and town the richestmanisnotasalaryearnersowhy are you thinking that you want to be rich by earning a salary? Go to any town any city any village the richest man is not a politician,notacivilservant,he'satrader and I challenge people I say there are situation where you can do business withouthavingcapitalthatismoneyand they said I must have some money to trade who told you that you must have somemoneytotradeassumingyouhave apoultryfarmandyouareproducing50 crates of eggs in a day you have no marketandyouknowmeyoutrustedme

andIcometoyouIsayNoahcanyougive me 20 crates I'll pay you tomorrow we agreeonthepriceItakeitIhawkaround sellitrealizeamargin,comeandpayyou take another one from there I will have some little money to say okay today my markethasincreasedsoIneed30crates, butIkeeppayingyou10fortenitwillgetto a stage where I will buy directly without eventakingitoncredit.

Most of the businesses when you see petty traders who have got to that level they started without any capital but because people believe in them and have supported them, they have trust in themandthismakesthemsucceed. Most people are scared that when I give them products they will disappear with

mymoneyandthereforeinthecourseof doing that they will not have capital to trade.

Someareunabletoaccessduetoissues oftrustandintegrity.ifyou'reatrustworthy person with integrity, they will give you whateveryouwant,sothatyoucantogo, sellandrealizeamargin.

From this you can take care of yourself and even have some little to save for anotherdayandthat'showthecapitalwill come gradually But people are not lookingatitfromthatdirectionifyouaska civilservantwhatdoyoudo?

I don't have any money or any capital to tradesoI'mjustrelyingonthesalary,but todaywhatyouwillseeisthatthesalaryis notenough.

We should also note that this issue of inflationisaglobalproblem.

Whataretheinvestmentopportunities availableinKatsina?

Weshouldalsonote thatthisissueof inflationisaglobal problem

Youseetheonesthatwe'relookingatand wherewewantpeopletocomeandinvest is the energy sector, we need to have stableenergysupplywhichisneededfor industrialization and for any business to thrive. Therefore whoever is coming to investinKatsinaasaStateshouldinvestin energy, solid minerals or agriculture, we havemassiveopportunitiesinthissectors

ThankyouforyourtimeyourExcellency.