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FG decries penchant for imported products, urges Nigerians to review habit

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Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, expressed concern over the preference for imported goods, urging Nigerians to endorse and bolster domestic products. He made these remarks during his keynote address at the 35th Enugu International Trade Fair, themed “Promoting Made-in-Nigeria Products for Global Competitiveness.”

Nnaji emphasized that supporting Nigerian-made goods transcends mere economic independence; it reflects national identity and underscores the exceptional quality of domestically manufactured items. He stressed the importance of various sectors striving to meet global standards and foster innovation.

The Minister highlighted how this year’s trade fair theme underscores the significance of job creation, economic growth, and empowering local businesses to excel globally through leveraging distinctive resources and creative capabilities. He linked these objectives to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for renewed hope in the country.

Nnaji underscored the necessity for Nigerian products to adopt a strategy emphasizing quality, branding, and effective market penetration as global markets become increasingly interconnected. He emphasized the unique cultural depth and originality of Nigerian products, positioning them prominently in both local and international markets.

Regarding the Enugu International Trade Fair, Nnaji emphasized its pivotal role in showcasing Nigerian products, facilitating business partnerships globally, and promoting trade diversification. He highlighted Enugu State’s potential across various industries, including energy, pharmaceuticals, and construction materials, underscoring the need for investment incentives to harness this potential fully.

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The Minister outlined his Ministry’s objectives, which focus on utilizing innovation, science, and technology as catalysts for economic transformation. He emphasized efforts to enhance the quality and attractiveness of locally produced goods, with support from organizations like the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), and the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA) in advancing local production capabilities.

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Driver dies as vehicle crashes into White House gate

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The U.S. Secret Service has said that a driver died after a vehicle traveling at high speed collided with a gate at the White House.

In a statement via X on Sunday, the federal law enforcement agency, said shortly before 10:30 p.m. (1430 GMT) on May 4th, the vehicle crashed into an outer perimeter gate on the White House complex.

“Security protocols were implemented as officers cleared the vehicle,” it said, adding that “there was no threat to the White House.”

The chief of Communications for the agency, Anthony Guglielmi in a post on X, said limited traffic closures remain in effect as the agency and the local police department investigate the incident.

CREDIT: DAILY POST

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Nigerian govt moves to reduce multiple security personnel at airports

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The Nigerian government has announced its intention to decrease the frequency of security checks at the country’s airports. This initiative comes as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) collaborates with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to streamline security procedures at Nigerian airports.

Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of FAAN, revealed this development over the weekend, citing the proliferation of multiple security checks as a significant concern in Nigeria.

Kuku explained that FAAN and the NSA have reached an agreement to address this issue. She expressed frustration over the excessive checks, stating that it was among her first priorities upon assuming office. She highlighted past efforts dating back to 2011 and 2012, during her tenure in the industry, where similar discussions were held with former ministers.

Kuku outlined the collaborative efforts involving various agencies such as Customs, NDLEA, Quarantine, Agriculture, and EFCC, noting the previous Executive Order 001 issued during the Buhari administration to streamline operations. She mentioned ongoing dialogues with the NSA over the past five weeks to develop strategies for enhancing facilitation.

The short-term intervention aims to reduce the number of agencies present at airports, particularly those conducting routine checks that disrupt passengers. This approach seeks to streamline security procedures while maintaining effectiveness.

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Only PhD students eligible to bring dependants to UK – Envoy

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The United Kingdom (UK) has clarified that only international students enrolling in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs are permitted to bring their dependents into the country.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. He explained that the recent policy alteration in the educational system, preventing international students in higher education from bringing dependents to the UK, aimed to address the rising number of foreign students doing so.

Montgomery emphasized that the significant increase in dependents was creating unsustainable pressure on many universities, leading to the introduction of these changes. Prior to his tenure as High Commissioner to Nigeria, he had engaged with universities regarding this policy adjustment, which had been under consideration for some time.

The envoy highlighted concerns expressed by university Chancellors about the challenges posed by large student populations, including accommodation shortages, access to healthcare services through the National Health Service, and schooling for dependents.

He clarified that the restrictions did not apply universally, noting that individuals pursuing long-term research degrees such as a PhD or doctorate remained unaffected.

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Montgomery underscored the rationale behind the policy change, emphasizing its practicality given the UK’s extensive higher education sector, with many universities situated across various towns in the country.

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