Arewa Voters Assembly Warns Sowore Against October 20 Protest, Declares ‘Enough of His Rascality and Impunity’

The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) has warned activist Omoyele Sowore to desist from his planned protest scheduled for October 20, 2025, in Abuja, describing it as a dangerous plot to destabilize Nigeria’s peace, unity, and democracy.

In a statement released today in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Comrade Ismail Ibrahim Bakori, the Assembly said it was “pertinently and vehemently speaking in unequivocal language to all enemies of the country who have overtly and surreptitiously been working to reverse the appreciable mileage that Nigerians have strenuously struggled to cover in entrenching democracy and representative governance in the country, especially the gains so far achieved by the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration.”

“In tune with the mood of most rational and patriotic Nigerians, we are hereby warning Sowore that we can no longer put up with his serial acts of rascality that threaten the very foundation of the corporate existence of the country and his unguarded utterances and statements against state institutions and statesmen, very unbecoming of a child brought up from a good home with parents,” Bakori said. “Enough is enough.”

According to the Assembly, “Omoyele Sowore is an unpatriotic quisling who has been masquerading in the guise of a ‘human rights and democracy activist.’ This posturing is a facade behind which he has been carrying out his treacherous and treasonable offences and actions against the Nigerian state and institutions for a few years now, masquerading under the so-called garb to blackmail and commit atrocious activities that are very inhuman.”

The statement further alleged that, “Sowore is a hired destabilization agent in the service of foreign forces and interests that have been scheming over the years to disintegrate Nigeria by igniting the fire of ethnic, regional and religious conflagration and inclinations. They have found an ally in Sowore, who does not have the fear of God in him and is never patriotic to the cause and aspirations of the Nigerian state, and who will do anything to bring the country to its knees in order to satisfy his selfish, delusional behavior and character traits of a failed childhood not brought up from a good parentage and family life.”

“Since the inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, it has long become obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly, and to discerning Nigerians and certainly to every patriotic observer, that several shadowy forces have been at work in efforts to scuttle the trajectory of our hard-won democracy, to which Sowore has lent his life and service as a traitor and fifth columnist of the first order and an enemy of the state,” Bakori added.

The AVA further accused Sowore of being “provocative, vulgar, uncouth and lawless,” with “a habit of instigating violence, chaos, anarchy and conflicts between communities, parties, individuals and regions by always whipping up divisive sentiments along the nation’s fault lines.”

“His latest antics, woven around the trial and detention of Nnamdi Kanu, vividly illustrate the character of Sowore as an opportunistic interloper and renegade spent force who goes on scavenging expeditions for the slightest chance and opportunity, however senseless, of plying his vocation of a rabble-rouser and an enemy of the Nigerian nationhood,” the statement continued.

“It is obvious to us in the Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) that Sowore’s recent penchant for hauling disparaging verbal attacks, dissolute, crude and odious invectives at the administration and person of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a deliberate strategy aimed at arousing the disaffection of the citizens towards their democratically elected political leadership and to cast aspersions on our hard-fought democracy that is thriving in leaps and bounds to the detriment of the undertaker’s principals and sponsors, who are daily licking their wounds because Nigeria is indeed moving towards the right direction under the present dispensation.”

The Assembly made several demands, including an end to what it described as Sowore’s “narcissistic and egocentric vituperations,” and called on the nation’s security agencies “to, as a matter of urgent national security exigency, go for the scum and threat to the nation in the person of Omoyele Sowore.”

On the planned protest, Bakori declared:

“The Arewa Voters Assembly is, for emphasis, vehemently and unequivocally reiterating its position that the Sowore’s planned so-called ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu’ protest slated for the 20th of October, 2025, in Abuja, WILL NOT HOLD! We are very emphatic because that will be his last!”

He revealed that the Assembly has mobilized 60,000 of its members from across the country to converge on the Federal Capital Territory as a counterforce.

“We will chase and hunt for any miscreants seen on that day on the streets of Abuja in the name of protest. It is our fervent prayer that Sowore will not test our resolve,” Bakori warned.

The statement also addressed reports that protesters planned to disrupt business at Wuse Market, saying:

“On the intelligence we got that architects of the so-called peaceful protest plan to disrupt business activities at the Wuse market, we have promptly called on our members at the market to link up with other traders to jointly come out to resist the anarchists.”

Clarifying its position, the Assembly said it was not against Nnamdi Kanu’s person but insisted that his case must follow the rule of law.

“The Arewa Voters Assembly (AVA) wishes to make it very clear that its position on Sowore’s planned protest should not be misconstrued to mean that we are against the person of Nnamdi Kanu. As democrats, our position is based on our ardent belief in the principles of the rule of law. Neither VIOLENCE, BLACKMAIL NOR GRANDSTANDING should prevail in the resolution of conflicts and dialogue.”

Bakori continued:

“While we are also not averse to the suggestion from certain quarters for ‘a political solution’ to the situation, we insist however that justice, due process, equity and fair play should take precedence over sentiments.”

“We insist that the freedom or otherwise of Nnamdi Kanu should follow due judicial process. Let him go through his trial that is now ongoing in the court of law and face the outcome at the end of the day.”

“As much as we are not against justice for Kanu, we are also not unmindful of his violent activities, those of his lieutenants and foot soldiers that resulted in multitudes of deaths, various forms of physical disabilities and massive economic ruination in the Southeast. We believe that the victims of these wanton atrocities also deserve retribution and justice.”

Bakori concluded with a reaffirmation of the Assembly’s loyalty to the unity and peace of Nigeria:

“Long live one united, peaceful Nigeria. Long live democracy.”

Network of Peace & Security Condemns Sowore’s “Destructive Agenda”

The Network of Peace & Security, a coalition of concerned citizens committed to promoting national unity and progress, has strongly condemned what it described as the “atrocious and unpatriotic activities” of activist Omoyele Sowore, accusing him of attempting to destabilize Nigeria and undermine government efforts to deliver on its mandate to the people.

In a statement issued in Abuja, Comrade Maduka Ogbonna, the National Convener of the Network of Peace & Security, described Sowore’s actions as “reckless, irresponsible, and a threat to national security.”

“Sowore’s calls for violence and unrest are a clear attempt to disrupt the peace and stability of our nation, and we condemn them in the strongest terms possible,” Ogbonna said.

The Network commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for what it termed a strong commitment to upholding human rights and promoting the rule of law. According to Ogbonna, “The government has shown respect for human rights, and it is unfortunate that self-proclaimed human rights crusaders like Sowore are abusing this right to pursue their selfish interests.”

He urged Nigerians to be wary of Sowore’s tactics and instead support the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to entrench peace, security, and development across the country.

“The President Bola Tinubu Administration is focused on delivering dividends of democracy to the people, and we should support these efforts,” he added.

The statement further called on security agencies to “immediately arrest” Sowore and ensure that anyone seeking to incite chaos or destabilize the country is brought to justice. The Network also alleged that Sowore is being sponsored by opposition political parties and accused him of being an “undertaker and serial blackmailer,” noting that his family resides abroad.

The Network of Peace & Security reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria’s stability and unity, warning against any attempts to exploit freedom of speech for destructive purposes.

Sowore and Divisive Anti-Democratic Forces Must Be Stopped; Enough is Enough-ACN

The Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN) has raised alarm over what it described as a dangerous campaign of division, blackmail, and anarchy being spearheaded by Omoyele Sowore and other paid agents of destabilization plotting to cause a breakdown of law and order in Nigeria.

In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Comrade Gbenga Ashiru Abiodun, National Coordinator of the Amalgamated Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (ACN), and Comrade Yakubu Abdullahi, General Secretary of the group, the organization condemned in totality the ongoing attempts to incite crisis under the guise of protest and advocacy.

The statement reads:

“The ongoing campaign of division, blackmail, distraction, disharmony, and anarchy against the Nigerian government, especially the one being spearheaded by the so-called Omoleye Sowore, as well as by some paid characters and agents of destabilization trying to cause a breakdown of law and order in our country, is a cause for concern in our nascent democracy.

This campaign of calumny, distraction, politics of hate, bitterness, and outrageous intent to precipitate crisis in our dear country must be resisted by democracy-loving Nigerians and forces.

In memory of the late Comrade Abiodun Aremu of blessed memory, we have resolved not to participate in the planned protest being organized by a known blackmailer and insurrectionist, Sowore, using the name of Nnamdi Kanu as a cheap political cover to unleash mayhem and anarchist tendencies against state institutions, including the National Assembly, National Ecumenical Centre, National Mosque, security formations like Kuje prison, and the courts of the land.”

The group further alleged that available intelligence revealed plots by Sowore and his associates to burn down major markets, train stations, airports, and other critical infrastructure in Abuja in a bid to precipitate violence and an ethno-religious crisis.

“We have resolved to urgently alert relevant security and intelligence agencies to nip Sowore’s plot in the bud to curtail the planned insurrection and mayhem that may result from it. Enough is enough of this blackmailer’s shenanigans!” the statement continued.

The group accused Sowore of lacking moral justification to lead any protest while facing prosecution, adding that his activities pose a serious threat to national peace and democratic stability.

“In any civilized world, Sowore would have lost all moral justification to stage a violent protest while undergoing prosecution before relevant courts of competent jurisdiction for a series of incitement and questionable cybercrime-related cases in Nigeria.

How can someone who is a known blackmailer in the country with no character or moral rectitude be threatening government institutions, state apparatus, and other law-abiding citizens going about their lawful businesses in a country guided by the rule of law?”

They described him as “a serial rapist, a blackmailer, and a rogue politician” who, despite his rejection at the polls in 2023, continues to sponsor mischief and recklessness.

“Sowore is also part of the system that has brought Nigeria to its knees, as he was instrumental in fighting on the side of politicians against the hardworking people all these years,” the statement added.

The organization accused him of receiving funding from foreign powers and opposition elements, describing him as a “non-state actor used by anti-democratic forces to destabilize the country.”

“We hereby wish to make it abundantly clear to the relevant security agencies and intelligence, especially the NSA, DSS, Nigeria Police, and DIA, to quickly intervene in this matter to prevent the breakdown of law and order,” it stated.

The group vowed to institute a legal framework to restrain Sowore and his allies from further lawless behavior, while also mobilizing “thousands of democracy-loving Nigerians to confront him anywhere he is seen in Abuja.”

“We hereby declare Sowore a persona non grata anywhere he is sighted in Abuja. We have assembled a team of citizen volunteers across ethnic and religious divides to enforce this resolution… Nigeria’s unity and peace are more important than the aspiration of one individual! ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!”

Africa’s infrastructure deficit takes spotlight at pre-G20 event

..Two-day side event in Johannesburg seeks to mobilize global capital and deepen intra-African investment.

Africa’s infrastructure challenges and investment opportunities will take center stage when global leaders, financiers and development experts gather in Johannesburg for a high-level side event ahead of the G20 Summit in November.

In a press release signed by its president/CEO, Dr. Alfred Chiakor, and made available to journalists in Abuja, the Africa Think Tank for Infrastructure Development (ATTID) announced that it will host the Infrastructure and Sustainable Development Side Event on Nov. 20–21 at the Capital Empire Hotel in Sandton.
The meeting, themed “Enhancing Africa’s Infrastructure Transformation Agenda through Investments and Partnership,” will proceed the Nov. 22–23 G20 Summit of industrialized natio South Africa under the chairmanship of former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, His Excellency, Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, with Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and Irina Unkovski , international PPP and infrastructure specialist, as the Keynote speaker.

Organizers say the forum will bring together world leaders, executives of international development agencies, global banks, private investors, and regional economic commissions to chart a roadmap for transforming Africa’s infrastructure backbone. The gathering is expected to set the tone for deeper global partnerships at the G20 and beyond.

Africa’s infrastructure deficit remains one of the continent’s biggest barriers to growth, according to ATTID. The African Development Bank estimates that the region needs between $130 billion and $170 billion annually to meet its development goals in energy, transportation, water, sanitation, and urban systems. Poor infrastructure, officials note, has already cost African economies up to 40% in productivity losses and sliced two percentage points off annual growth.

Despite these gaps, the investment picture is shifting. Foreign direct investment (FDI) flows to Africa climbed from $53 billion in 2023 to $97 billion in 2024, or about 6% of global FDI, UN Trade and Development data show. North Africa led the inflows, buoyed by energy and transport projects, while sub-Saharan Africa saw rising intra-regional investment from players such as Dangote Group, MTN, and leading Nigerian banks.

Still, the continent faces steep hurdles. The World Bank reports that 22 African countries are at high risk of debt distress, and sub-Saharan Africa’s median debt-to-GDP ratio has nearly doubled since 2010. Weak road networks, underperforming railways, and costly transport logistics continue to stifle regional trade, which accounts for just 31% of commerce compared with 53% in emerging Asia.

ATTID leaders argue that innovative financing and partnerships are crucial. The side event will highlight successful models such as Egypt’s $10 billion Ras El Hekma megaproject with the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia’s light rail system, and the AfDB-backed Enugu-Bamenda Highway linking Nigeria and Cameroon. Such initiatives, they say, prove Africa can deliver high returns for investors while addressing pressing development needs.

The forum’s agenda includes business sessions on financing models, regional linkages, and public-private partnerships. Organizers expect the meeting to generate new investment pipelines, strengthen advocacy for infrastructure funding, and foster collaboration between governments, international lenders, and private sector stakeholders.

“The side event provides an auspicious window to deepen intra-African and global investment,” said Dr. Chiakor. “It is a clarion call to investors to tap into Africa’s infrastructure transformation that promises enduring returns.”

By the close of the two-day summit, ATTID hopes to secure commitments that will accelerate Africa’s integration into global value chains and position infrastructure development as a pillar of sustainable growth. Observers say the discussions in Johannesburg could shape Africa’s economic trajectory for decades, and help ensure the continent’s fast-growing population of 1.5 billion people benefits from inclusive development. He maintained.

Discovering culture and friendship in China’s ‘Snow Capital’ Altay

By Huan Xiang, Han Liqun, Hu Renba

Altay Prefecture, located in the northwest frontier of China, sits in the northeast part of Ili Kazak autonomous prefecture in the north of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. It borders Mongolia to the east, Kazakhstan to the west, and Russia to the north.

From the pristine Kanas Lake, hailed as “a pure land on earth,” to the majestic landscapes of Koktokay and to the millennia-old rock paintings that earned Altay its global reputation as the “cradle of skiing,” this land is distinguished by its breathtaking natural beauty and profound cultural heritage.

“Come here, try our kebabs!” called out a man in slightly accented Mandarin. He is Percev Timofei Nikolayevich, affectionately known as Jima, a Kazakh national who now co-owns a barbecue restaurant in Beitun, Altay Prefecture, with his Chinese wife, Guan Xinlan.

Their story began at the Jeminay Port, a long-standing border crossing at the convergence of China, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. With over a century of trading history, the port has long served as one of the most accessible gateways for China’s commerce with the three neighboring countries. 

Since reopening more than 30 years ago, it has quickly regained its role as a regional trade hub. Spotting the opportunity, Guan opened a small eatery near the port in 2005 and learned Russian to serve foreign customers.

Jima, a long-haul truck driver on the China-Kazakhstan route, soon became her de facto language tutor. Known for his warmth and generosity, he helped Guan learn Russian while also supplying her with specialty ingredients from Kazakhstan. Their relationship blossomed, and the couple married in 2009. Jima chose to settle in Altay, where he now helps run their growing business.

In recent years, improved customs efficiency and a mutual visa exemption agreement between China and Kazakhstan have significantly facilitated cross-border movement. For Jima’s family, the prosperity of the port has laid the foundation for a fulfilling life. The booming popularity of Altay as a cultural and tourism destination has opened new opportunities. In April this year, they relocated their restaurant to Beitun, expanding their reach with signature Russian-style kebabs.

From truck driver to entrepreneur, Jima has made Altay his second home. “Altay is beautiful and well-connected, attracting visitors from neighboring countries and beyond,” he said.

Altay’s mountainous terrain is covered in snow for nearly a quarter of the year. In 2018, China’s National Climate Center recognized Altay as the “Snow Capital of China.” The region’s core ice-and-snow area spans more than 30,000 square kilometers, comparable to the Alps in Europe or the Rockies in North America, making it one of the world’s premier destinations for ski tourism.

In 2005, a herder discovered ancient cave paintings in an Altay valley depicting humans skiing on primitive boards with a single pole in hand to hunt. Confirmed by researchers, these drawings represent the earliest known evidence of human skiing activities, dating back between 10,000 and 20,000 years ago.

At an international seminar on ancient skiing culture held in Altay in January 2015, more than 30 experts from 18 countries, including Norway, Sweden, and Finland, reached a consensus recognizing Altay as the birthplace of human skiing.

Nestled in the Altay Mountains, Altay is often described as “a city built within a ski resort.” Its Jiangjunshan International Ski Resort, just 1.6 kilometers from the city’s central square, holds a national 5S alpine skiing destination. With annual snowfall depth exceeding two meters, its light, fluffy powder snow has earned it the nickname “Asia’s powder snow paradise.”

The resort also reflects the growing internationalization of China’s winter sports. “We’ve seen an increase in foreign visitors in recent years, from tropical countries like Malaysia to traditional winter sports nations such as Russia, South Korea, and Japan,” said Li Xia, head of the Jiangjunshan Mountain Ski Academy.

Altay has rapidly expanded its ski infrastructure in recent years. Apart from major resorts such as the Jiangjunshan and Koktokay international ski resorts, recreational ski facilities have been established in every county. During the most recent snow season, Altay welcomed 1.408 million ski tourists, a 23.37 percent year-on-year increase.

In Altay, traces of early human skiing meet the vibrancy of a modern, international winter sports hub. With snow as a bridge and culture as its core, this borderland continues to foster stories of friendship and connection.

Shared development: a strategic response to global challenges

By He Yin, People’s Daily

On September 23 local time, China hosted the High-Level Meeting on Global Development Initiative (GDI) at the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York, announcing new steps to advance the initiative with the international community. A statement was issued at the meeting, reaffirming the consensus to prioritize development and deepen cooperation under the initiative.

At a time when global development faces challenges, China is committed to building consensus and mobilizing international cooperation to drive the GDI forward, injecting strong impetus into addressing development difficulties worldwide and accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Development remains an eternal theme of human society and the key to people’s well-being. The UN Charter enshrined development as one of the organization’s founding purposes.

In September 2021, Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Development Initiative at the general debate of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly. With the broadest interests of humanity in mind, he called on all parties to stay committed to development as a priority, to a people-centered approach, to benefits for all, to innovation-driven development, to harmony between man and nature, and to results-oriented actions.

Since its launch, the GDI has provided a practical framework for renewing global cooperation on common development. Against the backdrop of rising unilateralism and protectionism, which have severely undermined international development cooperation, the world economy has lost momentum, and the development divide between the North and the South has continued to widen. 

In this increasingly challenging environment, the GDI has gained relevance and traction as a guiding framework for reinvigorating international development cooperation. To date, over 130 countries and international organizations have taken part in the implementation of the GDI. The UN has established a GDI implementation work group, and the China-Africa-UNIDO Center of Excellence has been inaugurated. 

As China’s proposals turn into international consensus and the country’s visions for inclusive development translate into concrete actions, the GDI is increasingly recognized as a global public good aligned with the needs of the times. 

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres affirmed that the GDI is totally compatible with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and directly addresses the development challenges confronting the international community.

China has always championed win-win cooperation and common development, advocating joint efforts to make the development pie bigger. The GDI embodies this approach through concrete action.

At a time when some developed countries have fallen short on development-finance commitments or reduced support for international institutions, the initiative has mobilized tangible resources and partnerships to support common progress.

In the past four years, the initiative has mobilized more than $23 billion to support the development and revitalization of the Global South, and launched over 1,800 cooperation projects. From technological cooperation to capacity building, from poverty reduction and education to the digital economy, from high-yield rice to fungus-based processing, and from child nutrition and health to women’s economic empowerment, GDI cooperation has delivered tangible benefits and strengthened local development capabilities.

These efforts have demonstrated that China’s philosophies and agenda of common development not only help countries address pressing challenges, but also provide strong momentum for advancing the broader cause of global development.

Facing new circumstances and challenges, China remains firmly committed to advancing common development. It recently announced that it would forgo any request for new special and differential treatment in current and future World Trade Organization negotiations. This decision demonstrates China’s firm commitment to safeguarding the multilateral trading system and carries clear development significance. It will help refocus the multilateral trading system on development priorities and enhance the inclusiveness and universality of international trade.

China also announced a package of concrete measures: over the next five years, it will implement another 2,000 “small and beautiful” livelihood projects in developing countries; establish a funding program dedicated to digital capacity-building within the Global Development Capital Pool; put forward a new AI+ International Cooperation Initiative; carry out 200 maritime development cooperation projects; and implement a Clean Stove Project in developing countries. 

These initiatives will accelerate the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and enable more developing countries to seize the opportunities of technological transformation and green transition.

On the path of development, no country or individual should be left behind. This simple yet profound vision animates the GDI and is integral to building a community with a shared future for humanity. China stands ready to work with all parties to use the GDI as a platform to upgrade cooperation, prioritize practical actions, and achieve shared benefits, so that the fruits of development will better benefit people around the world.

Farming made easy: how an APP is revolutionizing rural harvests in E China’s Jiangxi

Yang Yanfei, People’s Daily

At 8 p.m. in Longyun village, Yantian township, Anfu county, Ji’an, east China’s Jiangxi province, Li Minggui reclined in his rocking chair after a long day, chatting with his wife about the rice harvest.

Li is the head of the Yantian comprehensive agricultural service center. While most parts of Jiangxi are racing to complete the double-cropping rice season, hilly villages like Longyun began harvesting their single-cropping rice in early September.

As the couple spoke, Li’s phone rang. “Hello, this is from Walou village in Xukeng township. I got your number through the Ganjitong farm machinery dispatch system. Do you have time tomorrow? The weather looks good for drying grain,” said a farmer on the line.

“No problem, but the dew is heavy in the morning, so you have to wait until 9 a.m. I’ll send our veteran, Min Lixiang, to lead the team,” Li replied.

At 3 p.m. the next day, Min and his team had wrapped up work in Walou village and were already operating their harvester in Tuqiao village, also in Yantian. The machine roared through the paddies, pulling in golden stalks of rice with each pass.

On the edge of the field, Min carefully maneuvered the machine, adjusting angles to sweep up even stray stalks with precision. Watching closely, Li gave him a thumbs-up: “Min’s got real skills. He keeps losses to a minimum. Farmers from all around ask for him during harvest.”

“We can always count on Min,” said local farmer Zhou Hailiang with a grin. “Yields look solid this year, around 700 kilograms per mu (about 467 kilograms per hectare).”

“I signed up for full-service farm management this season. Li has been guiding me through every step,” Zhou added, gesturing toward Li.

“With the Ganjitong app, farmers can order services just like takeout, from seedling cultivation and plowing to transplanting, pest control, harvesting, and drying,” Li explained. He keeps over 300 farmers’ contacts on his phone and handles dozens of requests daily. The center’s five harvesters have been running full tilt since the season began.

Anfu county has established several such agricultural service centers, offering integrated, one-stop solutions that cover the entire cycle from seed to harvest.

As one of Jiangxi’s major grain-producing counties, Anfu manages roughly 880,000 mu (around 58,700 hectares) of cultivated land. The combination of full-service centers and digital, on-demand platforms has given local farmers more flexibility and peace of mind.

According to Ouyang Suqin, head of the agricultural machinery division at the county’s rural vitalization service center, data from the Ganjitong system is integrated into a county-wide smart agriculture platform that manages more than 500 pieces of farm machinery. During peak harvest periods, centralized dispatch has boosted efficiency by over 30 percent and halved the average waiting time for farmers.

That evening, Li’s phone rang again. “According to the county platform, all of Yantian’s machines are booked, but Guashe township has already finished harvesting and has idle equipment. You can redeploy them,” Ouyang informed Li.

“The system gives us real-time access to machine availability across the entire county, allowing us to allocate resources where they’re most needed,” Li said.

As night fell, harvesters returned one after another to the service center’s garage. Squatting beside a harvester, Li wiped down the blades carefully. “Rice takes half a year to grow. If we put in a little more care, the farmers will see a better return,” he noted.

Discovering culture and friendship in China’s ‘Snow Capital’ Altay

By Huan Xiang, Han Liqun, Hu Renba

Altay Prefecture, located in the northwest frontier of China, sits in the northeast part of Ili Kazak autonomous prefecture in the north of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. It borders Mongolia to the east, Kazakhstan to the west, and Russia to the north.

From the pristine Kanas Lake, hailed as “a pure land on earth,” to the majestic landscapes of Koktokay and to the millennia-old rock paintings that earned Altay its global reputation as the “cradle of skiing,” this land is distinguished by its breathtaking natural beauty and profound cultural heritage.

“Come here, try our kebabs!” called out a man in slightly accented Mandarin. He is Percev Timofei Nikolayevich, affectionately known as Jima, a Kazakh national who now co-owns a barbecue restaurant in Beitun, Altay Prefecture, with his Chinese wife, Guan Xinlan.

Their story began at the Jeminay Port, a long-standing border crossing at the convergence of China, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. With over a century of trading history, the port has long served as one of the most accessible gateways for China’s commerce with the three neighboring countries. 

Since reopening more than 30 years ago, it has quickly regained its role as a regional trade hub. Spotting the opportunity, Guan opened a small eatery near the port in 2005 and learned Russian to serve foreign customers.

Jima, a long-haul truck driver on the China-Kazakhstan route, soon became her de facto language tutor. Known for his warmth and generosity, he helped Guan learn Russian while also supplying her with specialty ingredients from Kazakhstan. Their relationship blossomed, and the couple married in 2009. Jima chose to settle in Altay, where he now helps run their growing business.

In recent years, improved customs efficiency and a mutual visa exemption agreement between China and Kazakhstan have significantly facilitated cross-border movement. For Jima’s family, the prosperity of the port has laid the foundation for a fulfilling life. The booming popularity of Altay as a cultural and tourism destination has opened new opportunities. In April this year, they relocated their restaurant to Beitun, expanding their reach with signature Russian-style kebabs.

From truck driver to entrepreneur, Jima has made Altay his second home. “Altay is beautiful and well-connected, attracting visitors from neighboring countries and beyond,” he said.

Altay’s mountainous terrain is covered in snow for nearly a quarter of the year. In 2018, China’s National Climate Center recognized Altay as the “Snow Capital of China.” The region’s core ice-and-snow area spans more than 30,000 square kilometers, comparable to the Alps in Europe or the Rockies in North America, making it one of the world’s premier destinations for ski tourism.

In 2005, a herder discovered ancient cave paintings in an Altay valley depicting humans skiing on primitive boards with a single pole in hand to hunt. Confirmed by researchers, these drawings represent the earliest known evidence of human skiing activities, dating back between 10,000 and 20,000 years ago.

At an international seminar on ancient skiing culture held in Altay in January 2015, more than 30 experts from 18 countries, including Norway, Sweden, and Finland, reached a consensus recognizing Altay as the birthplace of human skiing.

Nestled in the Altay Mountains, Altay is often described as “a city built within a ski resort.” Its Jiangjunshan International Ski Resort, just 1.6 kilometers from the city’s central square, holds a national 5S alpine skiing destination. With annual snowfall depth exceeding two meters, its light, fluffy powder snow has earned it the nickname “Asia’s powder snow paradise.”

The resort also reflects the growing internationalization of China’s winter sports. “We’ve seen an increase in foreign visitors in recent years, from tropical countries like Malaysia to traditional winter sports nations such as Russia, South Korea, and Japan,” said Li Xia, head of the Jiangjunshan Mountain Ski Academy.

Altay has rapidly expanded its ski infrastructure in recent years. Apart from major resorts such as the Jiangjunshan and Koktokay international ski resorts, recreational ski facilities have been established in every county. During the most recent snow season, Altay welcomed 1.408 million ski tourists, a 23.37 percent year-on-year increase.

In Altay, traces of early human skiing meet the vibrancy of a modern, international winter sports hub. With snow as a bridge and culture as its core, this borderland continues to foster stories of friendship and connection.

Delivering growth: What China’s logistics data reveal about its economy

By Han Xin, People’s Daily

China’s logistics sector is showing renewed vitality, with recent data highlighting its role in sustaining economic momentum.

According to the latest figures, the country’s e-commerce logistics index reached 112.3 points in August, marking six consecutive months of growth and reaching its highest level this year. 

Meanwhile, China’s total social logistics value surpassed 360 trillion yuan ($50.46 trillion) in 2024, a historic high that reaffirms the country’s position as the world’s largest logistics market for the ninth consecutive year. That sustained expansion, even at such a scale, reflects underlying economic resilience.

Often referred to as the “nervous system” of the real economy, modern logistics serves as a critical link between production and consumption. The latest figures suggest a shift not just in scale, but in quality, highlighting an industry transitioning from rapid expansion to more efficient, value-driven growth. The trend points to deeper structural changes and continued resilience in the Chinese economy.

A look at consumption trends reveals significant shifts between online and offline activities.

From January to August this year, China’s online retail sales approached 10 trillion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 9.6 percent, outpacing overall retail sales growth. This upward trend, supported by policies promoting product trade-ins and surging consumer demand, is driving sustained expansion in e-commerce logistics. Every package ordered and delivered speaks to increasing consumer confidence and the growing depth of China’s digital economy.

Service consumption has continued to rise this year, along with spending on development-oriented and enjoyment-oriented products, signaling continued consumption upgrading. With strong policy support and the advantage of a vast domestic market, China is poised to unlock further potential in diversified and stratified consumer demand.

Beyond consumption, logistics activity also reveals the trajectory of industrial transformation and upgrading. Last year, logistics volumes in traditional sectors such as chemicals, cement and steel declined, while high-tech products such as integrated circuits, optoelectronic devices and smart robots maintained double-digit growth, emerging as new drivers of industrial logistics. 

The divergence between decline and growth underscores China’s shift toward higher value-added industries. As the country’s industrial system moves further up the value chain, embracing advanced manufacturing and intelligent production, a more sophisticated supply structure is reinforcing the long-term stability and growth of the Chinese economy.

Today, China boasts a comprehensive transportation network exceeding 6 million kilometers, an expanding network of logistics hubs, and steady progress in developing international logistics corridors. These improvements are enabling faster, more efficient movement of goods across regions and sectors. Enhanced infrastructure, diversified logistics channels, and integrated transport systems are enabling smoother flows, strengthening the logistics sector’s role as a cornerstone of economic stability.

While physical infrastructure provides the foundation, regulatory reforms and market mechanisms serve as the connective tissue of the logistics system. Recent measures to improve the market-based allocation of production factors have eased bottlenecks in economic circulation. Efforts to curb disorderly price competition are helping to safeguard fair market conditions, while streamlined channels for selling export-oriented products in the domestic market are accelerating the integration of domestic and foreign trade. These reforms are reducing logistics costs, boosting industrial competitiveness, and improving the efficiency of national economic flows, reinforcing the steady momentum of China’s economy.

Looking ahead, China is well-positioned to build a more robust, responsive, and efficient modern logistics system that bridges supply and demand, links domestic and international markets, and balances security and efficiency. This logistics backbone will continue to support the smooth operation and sustainable growth of the Chinese economy.

Nigeria At 65: PANDEF Lauds Tinubu, Urges Infrastructure Devt. In Niger Delta

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has commended Nigerians and President Bola Tinubu for shouldering the responsibility of leadership as well as his efforts in solving pressing needs as Nigeria marks sixty-fifth independence anniversary.

PANDEF made this known in a statement titled ‘SIXTY-FIVE CHEERS TO A GREAT NATION IN NEED OF TRUE REFLECTIONS’, and signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali on Thursday.

The group also hailed “the Governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, and Rivers States for their sterling leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of their states and the entire South-South region.”

PANDEF stressed the need for the government to urgently address the worsening infrastructure decay in the Niger Delta, noting that the lingering neglect of vital projects such as the East-West Road, the Benin–Auchi Road, the Benin–Warri Road, and the revitalization of the southern ports in Port Harcourt, Calabar, Onne, and Warri must be decisively addressed if Nigeria is to fully harness its economic potential.

Additionally, PANDEF “reaffirmed its commitment to continue working with the Federal Government and the leadership of the Niger Delta states to ensure that our region and people play their rightful role in the affairs of the nation.”

Part of the statement reads:
“The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), on behalf of the peoples of the South-South zone, warmly felicitates with the government and the entire people of Nigeria as we mark the sixty-fifth independence anniversary of our dear country, Africa’s largest democracy. We give thanks to Almighty God for the gift of this outstanding nation and the progress we have achieved despite some daunting challenges.

“We extend our special salutations to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the responsibility of leadership entrusted on him at this pivotal moment in our history and acknowledge the efforts of his administration in addressing pressing various issues of national concern. We also commend the Governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, and Rivers States for their sterling leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of their states and the entire South-South region.

“This milestone anniversary offers us yet another opportunity to reflect on the journey of our nationhood. In that respect, we urge governments at all levels to show greater determination and respect for rule of law in consolidating democracy, pursuing meaningful economic reforms, and confronting the challenges of insecurity, poverty, hunger and youth unemployment that continue to weigh heavily on our people.”