Innovation drives China’s high-quality economic development

By He Yin, People’s Daily

China received about 1.6 million patent applications in 2022, ranking first in the world, according to the World Intellectual Property Indicators 2023 report recently issued by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

According to WIPO’s Global Innovation Index 2023, China ranked 12th globally, with six indicators ranking first in the world. Besides, the 24 world-level science and technology clusters in China also for the first time made China the top in the world in the relevant ranking.

All these figures prove that China, which has joined the ranks of the world’s innovators, is still improving its capability in sci-tech innovation.

Innovation is the primary driving force behind development and the strategic underpinning for building a modernized economy.

Against the backdrop of a sluggish global economic recovery, China’s economy has rebounded and improved. The country is making solid progress in promoting high-quality development and advancing the construction of a modern industrial system. Furthermore, significant breakthroughs have been achieved in sci-tech innovation.

According to statistics released by the National Bureau of Statistics this August, the new kinetic energy index of China’s economic development (taking 2014 as 100) was 766.8 in 2022, up 28.4 percent from a year ago. The innovation-driven index was 336.3, an increase of 15.5 percent over the previous year. The knowledge capability index stood at 193.4, up 5.9 percent year-on-year.

China boasts the world’s largest talent pool with the most complete categories, with the total number of talent resources reaching 220 million. The number of R&D personnel is expected to surpass 6 million in 2022.

International observers said that China has continuously enhanced its capability in sci-tech innovation to support high-quality development, and promoted a virtuous cycle of academics, innovation, and production.

As innovation-driven development advances and sci-tech innovation continues to empower the real economy, new industries and new driving forces are constantly growing and expanding, thereby enhancing their role in driving economic growth.

From January to October this year, China’s investment in high-tech industries increased by 11.1 percent year-on-year, outpacing overall investment by 8.2 percentage points. The industrial added value of automobile manufacturing grew by 11.3 percent, while the figure in electrical machinery and equipment manufacturing increased by 13.6 percent, compared to the same period last year.

Innovation remains at the heart of China’s modernization drive. The innovation and commercialization of new technologies have become important driving forces for economic development.

Thanks to the innovation and application of advanced technologies, the Chinese economy has constantly opened up new fields and new tracks. A number of industries with long industrial chains, high technology content, and strong driving capabilities have accelerated their development. The rapid growth in China’s exports of new energy vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, and photovoltaic products in recent years is clear proof of this.

China will continue to be an economy that creates huge opportunities for bilateral cooperation, said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of the Republic of Singapore Lawrence Wong in Beijing. He noted that China boasts a huge economy with many advantages in areas such as advanced manufacturing and green economy, and also possesses a vast market.

Huge opportunities lie in China’s fertile ground for innovation. Unilever has established its Asian R&D center in north China’s Tianjin municipality; Schneider Electric has inaugurated its automation R&D center in Wuxi, east China’s Jiangsu province; Honeywell has chosen Shanghai as the location for its global automotive parts R&D center; Volkswagen has announced its plan to develop and produce electric vehicles at a new base in Hefei, east China’s Anhui province.

The Chinese market not only offers a large consumer base for multinational corporations, but also serves as a fertile ground for the incubation, roadshow, and promotion of new technologies and models.

More and more heads of multinational companies investing in China believe that many technological innovations originate from China first and then go to the rest of the world. China has become a breeding ground for large-scale application of emerging technologies.

China’s sci-tech innovation not only provides sustained momentum for its own economic growth, but also brings tangible development opportunities to the rest of the world.

China has established sci-tech cooperation with over 160 countries and regions, and signed 116 inter-governmental agreements on sci-tech cooperation, creating a new pattern of all-round, multi-level, and wide-ranging open cooperation in the field of science and technology.

China has also signed inter-governmental agreements on sci-tech cooperation with over 80 Belt and Road countries. Together, they have established more than 50 joint laboratories, built over 20 agricultural technology demonstration centers and some 70 overseas industrial parks.

Additionally, China has set up 10 overseas science and education cooperation centers and nine transnational technology transfer centers with relevant countries.

Denis Simon, a distinguished fellow at the Institute for China-America Studies, noted that China’s technological achievements are remarkable and playing an increasingly crucial role in the global innovation landscape. China has become an important participant in cutting-edge innovation on the international stage and a significant contributor to solving global challenges, Simon added.

China will continue to deeply implement the innovation-driven development strategy, integrate sci-tech innovation resources, lead the development of strategic emerging industries and future industries, accelerate the formation of new productive forces, and stimulate stronger advantages and momentum, so as to drive high-quality economic development with innovation.

以创新之力推动中国经济高质量发展

人民日报和音

　　世界知识产权组织近日发布的《世界知识产权指标报告》显示，2022年中国专利申请量约160万件，居世界第一。该组织此前发布的《2023年全球创新指数》显示，中国排名第十二位，其中6个指标排名世界第一；中国拥有24个全球顶级科技集群，在全球顶级科技集群排名中首次跃居世界第一。这些都说明，迈入创新型国家行列的中国，科技创新能力仍在继续提升。

　　创新是引领发展的第一动力，是建设现代化经济体系的战略支撑。在世界经济复苏乏力的背景下，中国经济回升向好，高质量发展扎实推进，现代化产业体系建设取得重要进展，科技创新实现新的突破。中国国家统计局今年8月发布的数据显示，2022年中国经济发展新动能指数为766.8，比上年增长28.4%。从主要构成指标看，创新驱动指数为336.3，比上年增长15.5%；知识能力指数为193.4，比上年增长5.9%。中国已成为全球规模最宏大、门类最齐全的人才资源大国，人才资源总量达到2.2亿人，2022年研发人员总量预计超过600万人年。国际人士认为，中国不断提升科技创新能力，以科技创新支撑高质量发展，推动学术、创新和生产形成良性循环。

　　随着创新驱动深入推进，科技创新持续赋能实体经济，新产业新动能不断发展壮大，对经济增长的带动作用提升。今年1—10月，中国高技术产业投资同比增长11.1%，快于全部投资8.2个百分点；汽车制造业、电气机械和器材制造业工业增加值同比增长11.3%、13.6%。中国坚持创新在现代化建设全局中的核心地位，新技术的创新与商业化成为经济运行的重要驱动力。得益于先进技术的创新和应用，中国经济发展的新领域新赛道不断开辟，一批产业链条长、技术含量高、带动能力强的行业加快发展。近年来，中国新能源汽车、锂电池、光伏产品“新三样”出口快速增长即是明证。

　　“中国将继续是一个能为双边合作提供巨大机会的经济体。”新加坡副总理兼财政部长黄循财日前在北京表示，中国经济规模巨大，在先进制造、绿色经济等领域有很多优势，还拥有巨大的市场。巨大机会，厚植于中国崇尚创新的沃土之中。联合利华在天津设立亚洲研发中心，施耐德电气中国自动化研发中心在无锡启用，霍尼韦尔公司汽车零部件的全球研发中心设在上海，大众汽车宣布将在合肥的新基地开发电动汽车并进行生产……中国市场不仅是跨国公司竞逐的大市场，也成为新技术和新模式的孵化器、路演区和展示推广平台。越来越多在华投资的跨国企业负责人认为，很多科技创新都来自中国，随后扩展到全世界，中国是推动新兴技术超大规模应用的热土。

　　中国的科技创新不仅为本国经济增长提供持久动力，也为世界带来实实在在的发展机遇。中国与160多个国家和地区建立科技合作关系，签订了116个政府间科技合作协定，构建起全方位、多层次、广领域的科技开放合作新格局。中国与80多个“一带一路”共建国家签署政府间科技合作协定，共建50多家“一带一路”联合实验室，在共建国家建成20多个农业技术示范中心和70多个海外产业园，建立10个海外科教合作中心，建设9个跨国技术转移中心。美国中美研究中心特聘研究员丹尼斯·西蒙认为，中国的科技成就举世瞩目，在全球创新版图中日益发挥着重要作用，成为国际前沿创新的重要参与者、解决全球性问题的重要贡献者。

中国将继续深入实施创新驱动发展战略，整合科技创新资源，引领发展战略性新兴产业和未来产业，加快形成新质生产力，激发出更强劲的优势与动能，以创新之力推动经济高质

To work together for China-Vietnam community with shared future that carries strategic significance

By He Yin, People’s Daily

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, held talks with Nguyen Phu Trong, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee at the premise of the CPV Central Committee on Dec. 12, local time.

The two sides announced a new characterization of the relationship for the two parties and two countries, working together for a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance on the basis of deepening the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.

The announcement sent out a positive signal of solidarity and friendship between the two parties and two countries, as well as their firm commitment to jointly step on the path of socialism and modernization.

It is believed that with the joint efforts of the two sides, China-Vietnam relations will enter a new stage of greater political mutual trust, more substantive security cooperation, deeper mutually beneficial cooperation, more solid popular foundation, closer multilateral coordination and collaboration, and more proper management of differences.

China and Vietnam will achieve more progress in their socialist causes, and make new contributions to stability, development and prosperity of the region and the entire world.

China and Vietnam have supported each other in their struggle for national independence and liberation, and learned from each other’s causes of reform and opening up and Doi Moi. The characterization “camaraderie plus brotherhood” well captures the profound friendship between the two countries.

No matter how the global environment has changed, the two parties and countries have worked together to uphold peace and tranquility, pursue development and cooperation, and promote prosperity and progress. They have found a promising path of jointly building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Xi proposed several suggestions, charting the course on building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future.

To build a China-Vietnam community with a shared future, it is important to keep to the right political direction, deepen mutual trust on security, upgrade practical cooperation, increase input to enhance popular foundation, coordinate closely on international and regional issues, and manage differences on maritime issues.

Trong noted that Vietnam stands ready to work with China to build a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance, follow the vision of making progress on six fronts, bolster cooperation across the political, economy and trade, security and people-to-people fields, and develop a paradigm of mutually beneficial cooperation. This serves the common interests of the two parties, two governments and two peoples.

The Vietnamese side said Vietnam is firmly committed to the one-China principle, opposes interference in China’s internal affairs by any forces, and supports the important global initiatives proposed by Xi including the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative

The two sides agreed to issue a joint statement on further deepening and elevating the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership and building a China-Vietnam community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

Both China and Vietnam both see each other’s development as opportunities for their own development. China is now striving to build itself into a great modern socialist country in all respects and advance the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts by pursuing Chinese modernization.

During the visit, the general secretaries of the two parties jointly witnessed the documents signed on bilateral cooperation in 30 plus areas, including Belt and Road cooperation, quarantine and inspection, development cooperation, digital economy, green development, transportation, subnational cooperation, defense, law enforcement and security cooperation and maritime cooperation. Such pragmatic cooperation, which is comprehensive, stable and sustainable, will enable both sides to jointly embark on a new chapter of modernization.

China and Vietnam have unique advantages of following the trend of the times, geographic proximity and shared cultural affinity in building a community with a shared future that carries strategic significance.

The two sides should carry forward the traditional friendship forged by older-generation leaders, build a community with a shared future together, and make steady progress in their modernization drives, so as to achieve win-win outcomes and common success, benefit the two peoples, and contribute to regional peace and prosperity.

Sea-rail intermodal trains give leg up to foreign trade at Qinzhou Port

By Zheng Yi, People’s Daily

As a gateway to the sea for the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a trade and logistics passage jointly built by provincial-level regions in western China and ASEAN countries, Qinzhou Port in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region has been actively promoting its advantages in sea-rail intermodal transportation, continuously unleashing its potential in foreign trade.

In the first half of this year, the total import and export value completed by provinces along the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor via Qinzhou Port reached nearly 59.5 billion yuan ($8.41 billion), a year-on-year increase of 19.6 percent.

Six hours after a cargo ship carrying 35 containers of Thai durians docked at a deep-water berth of Dalanping South Operation Area of the Qinzhou Port, all relevant customs clearance procedures were completed. Soon, these durians were taken to the Qinzhou Port East Railway Station, where they were shipped to supermarkets and wet markets across the country through cold-chain trains.

“In recent years, fruits such as durians, mangosteens, longans, and dragon fruits imported from ASEAN countries have been very popular in the Chinese market,” said Lin Mao, a sales representative of a fruit supply chain management company in southwest China’s Chongqing municipality.

According to Lin, before the launching of intermodal trains along the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, ordinary goods were usually imported via ports in the Yangtze River Delta region and then transported to the southwestern region through the Yangtze River, which took about 20 days.

“After the opening of the intermodal trains, it only takes two days for fruits like mangosteens and dragon fruits from Vietnam to reach Chongqing after completing customs procedures. Moreover, compared to road transportation, the sea-rail intermodal trains have a larger capacity and are safer,” Lin told People’s Daily.

As a crucial hub for the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, the Qinzhou Port East Railway Station operates around the clock, dispatching up to 21 trains per day.

“To address the challenge of storing perishable items such as fresh fruits and meat, we have introduced refrigerated train services. The temperature variation is controlled within a range of 3 degrees Celsius, effectively reducing losses,” said Zhao Jian, deputy head of Qinzhou Port East Railway Station, Guangxi Yanhai Railway Company Limited.

In addition to shortened shipping time, the cost of sea-rail intermodal transportation is also continuously decreasing. “According to calculations, the transportation cost per ton of talcum powder has dropped from over 500 yuan to 300 yuan, which saves us more than 4 million yuan a year,” said Li Guangqiang, general manager of a talcum powder company in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

As an international land-sea intermodal hub, Qinzhou Port has attracted an increasing number of foreign trade enterprises thanks to its convenient and cost-effective access to the sea. Exports from Chongqing, Sichuan, Gansu, and other regions in China can easily transfer from land to sea transportation at Qinzhou Port. Similarly, imported goods from abroad can also transfer from sea to land transportation there. The seamless connection between maritime and rail transport is made possible by the high level of customs facilitation.

At an automated container terminal of Qinzhou Port, a container vessel was being loaded. Containers carrying automotive parts were hoisted into the ship’s hold. After the loading was completed, the vessel set sail for Indonesia.

“After these containers were cleared, it only took them 80 minutes from entering the checkpoint to being loaded onto the ship, reducing the intermediate logistics process by 12 hours compared to before,” said Chang Peng, chief of the comprehensive business department at Qinzhou Port Customs.

In recent years, Qinzhou Port Customs has adopted a mode of “direct loading upon arrival” for export goods, in an attempt to reduce fees, improve efficiency, and facilitate customs clearance.

Under this mode, exporters only need to submit relevant information in advance, and once their information is verified, they can transport the goods directly from factories to Qinzhou Port for shipment, according to Chang.

Thanks to a series of optimized customs clearance measures, the efficiency of customs clearance at Qinzhou Port has significantly improved. In the first half of this year, customs clearance for imports and exports at Qinzhou Port took 41.85 hours and 1.37 hours on average, respectively, 84.35 percent and 96.46 percent lower compared to 2017.

So far, Qinzhou Port has opened a total of 69 shipping routes, connecting 393 ports in 119 countries and regions. At the same time, the sea-rail intermodal trains of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor that take Qinzhou as a transfer hub now reach 120 stations in 61 cities across 18 provinces in China. This has greatly enhanced the capacity of sea-rail intermodal transportation.

The rapid development couldn’t have been achieved without the construction of intelligent ports and terminals. The first phase of Qinzhou Port’s automated container terminal has been put into operation and is equipped with intelligent and efficient automated handling devices and horizontal transportation devices, said Wen Zuyi, deputy general manager of Beibu Gulf Port.

The project has also established a comprehensive and intelligent security system and an automated container terminal intelligent operation and maintenance platform, achieving a high level of informatization, standardization, and full automation in container terminal operations, Wen noted.

According to him, automated terminals can improve work efficiency by about 30 percent compared to traditional manned terminals, and reduce the number of operators required by 90 percent.

Unique ethnic culture leads to booming rural tourism in China’s Guangxi

By Li Zong, People’s Daily

The Longji Rice Terraces in Dazhai village, Longji township, Longsheng county, Guilin, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, was decorated with rice paddies, presenting a lively view.

Since ancient times, Longsheng county has been known for its mountainous landscape – most of the region is highland while the rest is halved by water and fields.

The diligent people of the Yao ethnic group leveled slopes into layers of terraces. After the terraces were shaped, they channeled in water and plowed the fields for planting rice. This feat of precision farming birthed the spectacular scenery of terraced rice paddies winding from the foot of the mountains all the way to the peaks.

For generations, the villagers of Dazhai have toiled on the slopes, gradually transforming them into a magnificent terraced landscape resembling a ladder to the sky. With more than 1,200 people in over 290 households, the village is predominantly inhabited by the Yao ethnic group, accounting for 98 percent of the village’s population.

Dazhai was once among the poorest villages in Longsheng county before it started developing tourism.

In recent years, the village has leveraged the scenic terraced landscapes and the unique cultural customs of the Red Yao ethnic group, a branch of the Yao ethnic group, turning the once impoverished village into a renowned tourist destination, said Yu Qiongtong, Party head of Dazhai village.

According to him, Dazhai village was named among the Best Tourism Villages of 2022 by the United Nations World Tourism Organization.

Early in the morning, Red Yao women would open the windows and hang their bright-colored clothes out on drying racks and corridors. Soon, the walls of every house were transformed into a “sea” of vibrant red garments.

The Red Yao costumes feature a passionate red color, as well as harmonious tones like blue, black, cyan, and green that blend with the surroundings. These colors are skillfully combined to express the Red Yao people’s longing for a better life.

In 2014, the traditional clothing of the Yao ethnic group in Longsheng county was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage of China.

The Red Yao people have a special affinity for the color red, and most of them have inherited the traditional craftsmanship of weaving, dyeing, and embroidery, which has been passed down to this day.

The traditional patterns of Yao ethnic clothing include geometric patterns, animal patterns, plant patterns, and landscape patterns. These diverse patterns not only have aesthetic value but also serve as cultural symbols.

“We embroider whatever we see, such as insects and flowers. It is a way to record our lives,” said Pan Jifeng, a national representative inheritor of the costume of the Yao ethnic group.

As the cultural charm of ethnic groups continues to unfold, ancient cultures are rejuvenated in the new era. The craftsmanship and vibrant colors of the traditional Yao costumes have ignited the tourism industry in Dazhai village.

Folk activities hosted there allow visitors to not only admire the breathtaking terraced landscapes but also experience the unique customs of the Yao ethnic group. Adorned in their splendid costumes, Red Yao women would sing joyful toasting songs and offer local sweet wine to tourists. Today, Dazhai village is bustling with tourists, with the laughter and joy full of mountains.

Extensive research, collection, and documentation have been conducted on local folk songs, ballads, and customs. Dazhai village is like a vibrant museum of Yao culture.

In addition to drying red clothes, the village also has traditional activities such as making sticky rice cakes, performing bamboo pole dances, and combing long hair. Dazhai village, far away from the hustle and bustle of cities, fully immerses visitors in the Red Yao ancient culture.

The unique farming culture of Dazhai village also attracts tourists. The 12 farming techniques often used on the Longji Rice Terraces present the beautiful local farming culture and villagers’ protection of the terraces, attracting many tourists to come to enjoy and experience.

“These 12 farming techniques were passed down by our ancestors who built the terraced fields. If any one of them is missing, the terraced fields may be damaged. This is our traditional terraced field culture,” said Yu, adding that developing tourism is an important way to promote the prosperity of the Yao culture in Dazhai village.

After years of development and innovation in local tourism, the villagers of Dazhai have turned into all-around farmers who not only do farm work but also engage in tourism businesses. As more and more tourists flock to the village, B&B and catering industries are thriving.

Currently, there are over 230 households in the village running distinctive B&B hotels. Besides, villagers are also operating farmhouse inns, selling handmade crafts, and performing ethnic dances, completely breaking free from the struggling days when they relied solely on agricultural work to make a living. This development has allowed the local culture to flourish, making it known beyond the mountains.

Bingham University can compete effectively with any first-generation university – Prof. Nanven Gambo

Vice Chancellor, Karl Kumm University Vom, Professor Nanven Audu Gambo, at the weekend said the infrastructure development implemented by the outgoing Vice Chancellor of Bingham university Professor William Barnabas Qurix has made the institution to compete favourable with any first Generation University in the Country.

Speaking in Jos at a dinner in honour of the outgoing Vice Chancellor of Bingham university Professor William Barnabas Qurix , organized by the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences of the university ,he added that Bingham University is now one of the most- sought after Universities in the country.

He further said that Bingham university has distinguished itself under the watch of the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor William Barnabas Qurix .
In his words ” Bingham in the past few years has been competing favourably with first-generation universities, making it attractive to admission seekers .”

” Since he came onboard as Vice Chancellor of Bingham University ,Prof Barnabas Qurix has remained focused on the reasons the Institution was established .”

Gambo lauded Prof Qurix for his steadfastness in taking the institution to higher heights .

Also in his speech ,the Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos Prof Tanko Ishaya described Prof Qurix’s six -year rule as a monumental advancement for the institution.

He noted that the VC would be leaving the institution far better than he met it, especially in the areas of infrastructure, welfare, discipline, integrity, transparency and accountability.

Speaking earlier Prof Musa Dankyau the Provost, College of Medicine & Allied Health Sciences said the outgoing Vice Chancellor would leave behind several legacies .

He added that Bingham University was granted full accreditation status for Medicine & Surgery programme back-to- back by the National Universities Commission (NUC) and Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN)under the tenure of the outgoing Vice Chancellor .

He said the Gains of the past 6 years under the stewardship of Prof William Barnabas Qurix are enormous .

According to him ,the outgoing Vice Chancellor Constructed a female hostel as well as Purchase and renovated two off-campus hostels at Ndagi Faruk and Jenta Apata .

“Prof Qurix Constructed 4 classrooms of 100-150 capacity .,he also Constructed and academic block (Prof. Felix Anjorin Block) as well as restructuring of accommodation into academic staff offices “
.
He also said the Vice Chancellor reconstructed the Provost office block as well as Constructed additional offices .

The Provost of the Medical school of the institution added that Prof Qurix also constructed the Emergency Paediatrics Unit at Teaching Hospital as well as the Construction of a student hostel in Kagoro for rural posting of medical students.

He added that Prof Qurix also Constructed Toilet block at the Hospital Chapel, as well as an incinerator and also Purchase and installated several teaching and laboratory equipments

Prof Qurix who spoke at the occasion assessed his six year tenure with a sense of fulfillment, adding that he was happy that he was leaving the citadel of learning better than he met it.

“I am highly fulfilled and happy for this honourary celebration organised by the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences of the university .

The VC who also thanked everyone who contributed to the success of his administration and disclosed that after leaving office, he would continue to contribute his quarter to the sustained grow and development of the University.

Tinubu’s Conditional Cash Transfer Programme Making Immediate Impact – Nigerians

About sixty days after President Bola Tinubu launched the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer for 15 million households, beneficiaries of the programme are already expressing the enormous impact of the initiative.

A recent independent investigation carried out to ascertain the efficacy and practicability of the Federal Government’s Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme across the country had attracted encomiums and applause by citizens.

Beneficiaries attested that the impact of the cash transfer programme has been immediate and far reaching in alleviating economic hardship to an extent. They also revealed that the N25,000 credited directly into their banks accounts was used for different purposes, including setting up of small businesses and to support existing ones, feeding, payment of school fees, medical bills, amongst others.
Recall that the Federal Government had emphasized that the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer programme is targeted at uplifting poor and vulnerable Nigerians, as well as an immediate intervention to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal and other economic shocks.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu had hitherto stated that: “61 million Nigerians stand to benefit from the scheme every month in October, November and December; 15 million households will be receiving 75,000 Naira over three months”.

Here are some testimonies of some beneficiaries of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer programme:

Funke Ogungbesun said, “I thank the Federal Government for what the government has done for us. I use the money to open my shop”.

Precious Nwamaka: “Infact, I’m very happy to see such a huge amount of amount of money unexpectedly in my bank account because I did not expect it. I use it to support my business”.

Shedrack Willie: “I did not believe it, I received it in the night and it really helped me and my family. So I thank the Federal Government for this palliative”.

One of the beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer programme, who didn’t want his name on print had this to say: “I got alert of N25,000, before then I don’t know what to do about my child who was in the hospital, but as soon as the alert came I used it to pay my child’s hospital bill. So, I thank the Federal Government so much, this money really helped me”.

On her part, Sekinat Galadima, a resident of Kuje, FCT-Abuja said, I used the money to support my pure water business and school.

Alhaji Yusuf Baba, a leader of one the communities in the Federal Capital Territory revealed that beneficiaries in his community are using the money from the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer programme to support their businesses. He however expressed joy over the impact of the initiative.

It is noteworthy that the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer programme is not the only initiative the Tinubu administration has adopted to lift Nigerians out of poverty.

Recall, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Edu had announced the Federal Government’s plan for provision of a special grant of N25,000 each under Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme to vulnerable pensioners in the country.

Dr Edu, also revealed that the Federal Government is working on a strategy to pull 50 million people out of poverty in the next 42 months, stressing that President Tinubu is deliberate in different poverty alleviation programmes to help the vulnerable in the country.

Edo 2024: Obaseki is sponsoring Asue and Akpata

By Comrade John Imagbe

In the current discourse surrounding the “Esan Agenda,” Governor Godwin Obaseki’s motivations have become a subject of controversy, with skepticism emerging about whether his actions genuinely serve the well-being of the Esan people and Edos at large, or if they are driven by self-interest. The latter is truly the case with personalities like Obaseki, who play PDP during the day and Labour Party at night.

Critics point to a perceived lack of Esan representation in crucial government positions, such as the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Head of Service, and State Auditor General, all occupied by individuals from the Bini ethnic group. The recent selection of a Speaker from Edo North further intensifies concerns, as it seemingly excludes Esan people from significant positions of power-sharing in the state.

Calls for transparency have led some to challenge Obaseki to provide a comprehensive list of Esan individuals holding prominent roles within his administration. The inconsistency in the governor’s approach to ethnic representation is highlighted, especially in comparison to previous administrations led by individuals from different ethnic backgrounds. Little wonder that the two Vice-Chancellors Obaseki has appointed so far as interim head of the State-owned University in Ekpoma are Benin men, one of whom is his brother-in-law. Is this how to support Esan agenda?

Speculation surrounds Obaseki’s sudden advocacy for the Esan Agenda, with some suspecting that it might be linked to promoting his friend and business partner, Asue Ighodalo, as his successor. Despite lacking an official government position, Ighodalo’s influential role in managing Edo’s resources raises questions about the extent of his involvement in decision-making processes and the use of state funds, especially considering the close ties between his bank, Sterling Bank, and the Edo State government. Recently, it was widely reported that Sterling Bank received close to a billion naira as bank charges from the Obaseki-led government.

The perceived focus shift from the Esan Agenda to what some term an “Asue Agenda” raises concerns among Esan supporters who feel neglected and betrayed. The suspicion that Obaseki is backing Asue Ighodalo as a successor adds complexity to the situation, with questions about the electoral value and the potential elevation of Asue above the interests of the Esan people.

Governor Obaseki’s emphasis on the “Esan Agenda” appears to be influenced by Asue Ighodalo’s Esan background. Had Ighodalo hailed from Akoko Edo, Obaseki might have championed the “Akoko Edo Agenda.”

However, examining the past seven years reveals a notable disparity in the representation of Esan individuals in key roles. There are fewer than five Permanent Secretaries and Judges of Esan extraction in the Edo State Civil Service, contrasting starkly with Edo South’s dominance, claiming over 80% of such appointments under Obaseki’s tenure.

Despite this, the tangible development in terms of roads and infrastructure in Edo South seems disproportionately higher than in Esan. The absence of any road development in Edo Central during the Governor’s term raises questions about the equitable distribution of resources.

Critics argue that Obaseki’s focus on safeguarding his business interests with Asue Ighodalo may eclipse genuine concern for Esan’s welfare. The apparent disconnect between rhetoric and action prompts scrutiny of the Governor’s commitment to addressing the needs of Edo Central.

Governor Obaseki’s emphasis on ethnic politics, seen in his pitting of candidates from outside the Esan ethnic group against average Esan indigenes, has triggered worries about increased division and conflict within the state. The consequences of Obaseki’s ethnic political strategy remain uncertain, but observers caution against allowing his agenda to overshadow the broader interests of Edolites.

Additionally, reports of Obaseki sponsoring the Labour Party candidate, Barr. Akpata from Edo South through his SSG further contributed to the complexity of the political landscape, indicating potential maneuvering behind the scenes. In 2020 Obaseki sponsored Akpata to emerge as NBA President. It is a known fact that Akpata uses Edo State government house protocols during his political activities in the state. Recently, the Governor through his wife had a meeting with Akpata in far-away America where a huge amount of foreign currency was doled out to the former NBA President. Also, vehicles were made available to Akpata, which he in turn gave to the Labour Party in Edo State in a bid to secure the party’s ticket.

As time unfolds, it will become clearer how these dynamics impact Edo’s political landscape, and vigilance is urged to prevent the installation of what is perceived as a political “stooge” by Governor Obaseki.

Comrade John Imagbe writes from
Benin City

Rivers Peace Accord: President Tinubu On The Right Path 

By Our Reporter

A pro-democracy group known as Coalition for Democracy and Justice, CDJ has urged those making inflammatory statements following the intervention of President Bola Tinubu in the political crisis in Rivers State to allow peace a chance. 

The group in a statement signed by its Convener, Augustine Adams described as unhelpful, the utterances of some individuals who are fanning embers of discord on the issue. 

The statement reads:

“We have watched with worry, the aftermath of the peace process initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to bring to an end, the crisis rocking the political space in Rivers State and we find it pertinent to appeal to those making inflammatory comments that the price for peace is cheaper than the cost of war. 

“We urge all individuals and groups criticizing the peace initiative of President Bola Tinubu to sheath their swords and allow peace to reign in Rivers State. President Tinubu’s intervention and resolution of the political crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the immediate past Governor of the state, Nyesom Wike was timely, patriotic and statesmanlike. 

“Mr President’s action was a commendable and important step towards fostering unity and stability in Rivers State. We believe that the interests of the people of the state should always be placed above political differences, and the pursuit of peace should be supported by all well-meaning individuals and groups.

“It is important to note that the intervention by President Tinubu was made in the spirit of reconciliation and the greater good of the people of Rivers State. We call on all stakeholders to embrace this effort and work towards building a harmonious and prosperous future for the state and Nigeria as a whole.

“We strongly condemn any attempts to undermine the peace initiative and urge all parties to refrain from igniting the flames of disunity. The people of Rivers State deserve an environment of peace and cooperation, and it is incumbent upon all of us to support efforts aimed at achieving this goal.

“We implore all concerned individuals and groups to engage in constructive dialogue and to focus on the shared goal of a peaceful and prosperous Rivers State. Let us set aside our differences and work together to build a better future for our beloved country as being.

“We reiterate our support for President Tinubu’s peace initiative. He has started well by embracing all Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation. The President deserves commendation, not condemnation.

Nasarawa Assembly officially approves the 2024 Appropriation Bill, making it a legal statute with a total budget of N199.9 billion.

“… confirms Aboki as member LGSC, as House proceeds on recess till February 12th…”

Nasarawa State House of Assembly, has passed the 2024 Appropriation Bill of N199.9 as presented by Gov. Abdullahi Sule into law .

Rt. Hon. Danladi Jatau, the Speaker of the House announced the passage of the bill into law during the House proceedings today in Lafia.

The Speaker said that the passed budget, if assented to by Gov. Sule would promote economic growth and development in the state.

” A Bill for a Law to Authorize the Issue Out of the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State (Appropriation) of the Sum of N199, 879, 370,709.43 only for the Services of Nasarawa State Government for the period of 12 months commencing from 1st January 2024 and Ending 31st December, 2024.

” The total sum of N117, 138, 350, 954.18 as Recurrent Expenditure while the sum of N82,741, 019, 755.25 as Capital Expenditure.

” The 2024 Appropriation bill is read for the third term and passed ,” the Speaker said.

Jatau appreciated members for their determination and commitments in ensuring the speedy passage of the 2024 Appropriation Bill into law.

” I want to appreciate you for your efforts in ensuring speedy passage of the bill.

” This shows sign of unity and synergy with the executive and judicial arms of government as we will always work in synergy with the state government for the overall development of the state,” he said.

Jatau urged the state government to ensure full implementation of the budget, if assented to by the Governor.

” We have done the needful, I hope that the executive will also do the needful,” he said.

He, then directed the Clerk of the House to produce a clean copy of the bill for Gov. Sule’s assent.

Earlier, Hon Suleiman Yakubu Azara, the Majority Leader of the House moved a motion for the passage of the bill into law.

Hon Luka Iliya Zhekaba, the Minority Leader of the House seconded the motion.

The House unanimously passed the 2024 budget into law.

In a related development, A Bill for a Law to make Provision for Right of Way in Nasarawa State and For Other Matters Connected Therewith passed first reading at the floor of the House.

Hon Suleiman Yakubu Azara, the Majority Leader of the House moved a motion for the bill to scale first reading which was seconded by Hon Luka Iliya Zhekaba, the Minority Leader of the House.

The House unanimously passed the bill into first reading.

In a related development, the House screened and confirmed Hassan Aboki Zanwa as member Local Government Service Commission.

Hon Suleiman Yakubu Azara, the Majority Leader of the House moved a motion for the screening and confirmation of the nominee which was seconded by Hon Luka Iliya Zhekaba, the Minority Leader of the House after Hon Solomon Akwashiki SDP Lafia Central and Hon. Esson Mairiga PDP Lafia North spoke in favour of the nominee who is from Lafia LG.

It would be recalled that on Dec 12, 2023, the Speaker of the House, has received the nomination of Mr Hassan Aboki Zanwa from Gov. Sule for re-appointment as member of the Local Government Service Commission.

The House also proceeded on recess from today to February 12th, 2024.

House of Reps Walk out Udo Udoma, Belo-Osagie for Misleading Cryptocurrency Company

The House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes on Wednesday walked out lawyers from Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie, for misleading a cryptocurrency exchange company in Nigeria suspected to be operating at variance with extant Nigerian laws.

Recall that on the 5th of December, 2023,
Empowerment for Unemployed Youths Initiative, Niger-Delta Youth Council and their partners petitioned Binance Holdings Limited, the operators of Digital Assets Exchange before the House Committee on Financial Crimes alleging a plethora of crimes and infractions against Nigerians and total disregard for extant laws governing cryptocurrencies which has posed a risk to Nigerians especially the youth who are vulnerable to such schemes.

The House Committee on Financial Crimes, swiftly summoned the Managing Director of Binance, Richard Teng in a letter dated 12th December, 2023 and signed by its chairman, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe requesting a hearing on the 18th of December, 2023.

However instead of honouring the invitation, lawyers from Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie appeared on their behalf.

Speaking at the hearing, the Chairman, House Committee on Financial Crimes, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe described the appearance of lawyers from Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie Chambers a as despicable and unprofessional stressing that the National Assembly is not a law court.

The chairman therefore walked Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie out and directed that the company be given another date to appear.

A source at the National Assembly diclosed that, “to say we are disappointed with the infantile, treacherous, demeaning and insensitive treatment meted on the National Assembly by Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie is an understatement. By conniving with an illegal entity clearly operating at variance with existing laws and risking the Nigerian economy, the firm has shown that its loyalty is not with the country and its laws but to their pocket and selfish desires even if it means disrespecting the legislature. A case unfolding like the P&ID scandal.

By disgracefully walking Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie out of the hallowed Chambers of the National Assembly and venue of the scheduled meeting by the House Committee on Financial Crimes, the leadership of the National Assembly and indeed that Committee has shown that there is no room for crooks who are not worth their credentials and the trust bestowed on them. Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie should stop embarrassing itself and allow the needful to be done rather than protect illegality”.

Commenting on the outcome of the committee sitting, the National Coordinator of Empowerment for Unemployed Youth Initiative, Amb. Solomon Adodo, the National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Youth Council, Chief (Engr.) Jator Abido, on behalf of other partners, expressed their deep seated disappointment with the lawyers from Udo Udoma and Belo-Osagie Chambers and wondered why a knowledgeable law firm could have the effrontery to treat the hallowed Chambers of the National Assembly with such disdain capable of bringing shame and ridicule on the House.

The group insisted that Binance Holdings Ltd must explain to the National Assembly and Nigerians the status of their operations in Nigeria by physically appearing before the House Committee on Financial Crimes with the relevant documents requested of them rather than enlisting the services of lawyers who have chosen the unprecedented route to promote gross ineptitude and primitive accumulation without any iota of patriotic commitment to the fatherland.

“Binance Holdings LTD. has a case to answer and they must avail themselves to the nation’s legitimate authority. You cannot be operating in the country and think you can disregard the laws of that country. Those beating the drums of disobedience to foreign firms whose operations threatens national security and economic stability must think twice. We are well within our mandate as civil societies and must continue to act as watchdogs to safeguard the economy and governance structure in the country. Those who are in bed with enemies of the country should know that their time is up”, the statement warned.

The groups equally cautioned Mr. Richard Teng, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Binance Holdings LTD. to desist from acts capable of earning him a warrant of arrest from InterPol and the possible freezing of the assets of Binance, adding that, “crimes such as money laundering, investments and securities fraud, tax evasion and failure to comply with regulatory frameworks are crimes of national security dimension whose punishments are stiff. There will be no hiding place when the law finally catches up with Binance.

The group finally urged unsuspecting Nigerians to distance themselves from Binance.com whose “operation of a virtual asset platform targeting Nigeria (including the country’s cyber space) and onboarding Nigerians, without due registration violates the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in the country respectively. Nigerians should therefore not fall victim to such fraud or even enable it”.