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Marrakech Declaration: Africa Calls for Fairer Global Financial Architecture

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The African continent has advanced reasons for a global financial architecture that is fairer and more conducive to the continent’s development

The position was canvassed at the high-level ministerial meeting on accelerating the financing of Africa’s emergence, on the sidelines of the WB-IMF Annual Meeting  which resulted in the adoption of the “Marrakech Declaration’’.

The forum was organised at the initiative of the Kingdom of Morocco and called for the realisation of the continent’s growth priorities, which respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of African states and contribute to the development of its populations.

It further called for the strengthening of bilateral and multi-lateral cooperation, to support Africa’s infrastructure deficit, through increased financing, provision and transfer of technical and technological expertise, and capacity building.

Addressing donors, partners and friendly countries, the continent also called for support for the emergence of a dynamic, wealth-creating private sector, capable of supporting the development of structuring infrastructure projects and bridging the infrastructure financing gap.

The Kingdom of Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Nadia Fettah, was consequently mandated to follow up the implementation of the Declaration, and urged to inaugurate an Inter-African taskforce to share best practices and experiences in the fields of infrastructure development and financing in Africa.

This move, it was argued would assist in the development of structure and bankable infrastructure projects as well as Africa’s infrastructure projects at roadshows to raise funds from potential investors.

They also agreed to support the establishment and operationalisation of the Inter-African Taskforce as part of an open dialogue aimed at promoting infrastructure development activities in Africa.

Equally, they reaffirmed their commitment to working toward sustainable African co-emergence, where infrastructure investment would play a key role as a development driver, within the framework of joint continental and regional initiatives; to capitalise on international infrastructure initiatives for the benefit of the African continent’s emergence.

In addition, it would intensify their joint efforts to strengthen the business climate by improving structural conditions for investment, mobilising financing to stimulate economic recovery, and creating a favourable environment for entrepreneurship and innovation.

The participating countries also reiterated their commitment to encouraging the establishment of a distinct climate governance model.

This, they said is based on a spirit of partnership and African ownership, and to working to mobilise diverse sources of financing, particularly private, to meet Africa’s infrastructure challenge more effectively and reduce the pressure on their public resources.

They also stressed that,  despite their efforts, they still face major challenges in terms of infrastructure, which plays a crucial role in developing their industries and value chains, creating jobs, improving the standard of living of their populations, and contributing to achieving the objectives of Agendas 2030 and 2063.

The Marrakech Declaration asserted that the question of financing remains a crucial issue to be addressed for the development of ambitious infrastructure programmes, capable of bridging the infrastructure gap from which African countries suffer, and that this financing effort cannot be ensured by public resources alone.

The Declaration points out that the lack of active, long-term international solidarity is considerably slowing down the momentum of climate action in Africa, penalising the continent, which until 2020 has received only 12 per cent of the annual flows of climate financing it needs.

The participants also agreed that the progress made by the continent at various levels, in terms of infrastructure, has resulted in the implementation of large-scale projects, that bears witness to the continent’s determination to make good Africa’s infrastructure deficit and achieve sustainable development and solid growth.

Equally, they noted that “the consolidation of intra-continental economic relations, in line with the objectives and commitments of our countries to develop South-South cooperation, is a key condition for the future development of our continent, and requires the establishment of quality infrastructures to support these ambitions”.

The African stakeholders thanked King Mohammed VI  for his leadership and commitment to strengthening inter-African cooperation, as well as the government and people of Morocco for hosting the Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund, and for the warm hospitality extended to all participants.

They also congratulated the Kingdom of Morocco on its designation as host country for the 2030 World Cup, which represents a unique opportunity to catalyse growth and infrastructure modernisation in the Kingdom, and demonstrates confidence in Africa’s ability to meet the greatest challenges.(NAN)

Economy

SEC Advocates Advanced Financial Inclusion by 2030

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By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has stressed the need for Nigeria to harness its demographic dividend to advance financial inclusion through investments by 2030 for national survival or face deepening inequality.

The Director-General of the SEC, Dr Emomotimi Agama said this at the United Capital Asset Management Investment forum on Wednesday in Lagos.

Agama, in his keynote address titled: “Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments: Bridging

Nigeria’s Knowledge and Wealth Gap,” said Nigeria must harness its demographic dividend to boost investment.

“Our theme, Advancing Financial Inclusion through Investments, is not aspirational; it is foundational to national survival.

“We stand at a pivotal moment. By 2030, Nigeria can either harness its demographic dividend or face deepening inequality. The knowledge-wealth gap is not merely an economic challenge; it is a moral imperative,” Agama said.

He said the term inclusion should be reframed as active financial involvement, where access meets empowerment, and capital becomes a tool for transformation.

Agama said that closing the financial inclusion gender gap could lift 700,000 Nigerians from poverty.

He said, “Nigeria has a great population yet we have a tiny drop of this number of persons involved in the capital market.

“That one reason for poverty, because we are running from money. We have to do something. Our market capitalisation is an opportunity to do something,

We all have

“We need to change the narrative and move the market forward. We must reach out to make the difference. We are committed to protecting investors and developing the market. Our goal is to do the right thing no matter whose ox is gored. We will work by the principles of fairness and equity to change the market. We will provide a fair ground for everyone to aspire.

He noted that MTN Nigeria’s share offering drew 150,000 new investors – 75 per cent women, 85 per cent under 40.

Agama recommended a four-pillar strategy for bridging the gaps.

He listed the four-pillar strategy as democratisation of financial knowledge, catalyse MSME Investment Channels, blended Finance Vehicles: Partner with Bank of Industry (BOI) to de-risk loans for women-led SMEs.

“We need to educate people about finances. As we drive this market, we do so for a purpose, I enjoin everyone to be the disciple and the apostles. Getting this market to move is a deliberate action,” he added.

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Economy

NPA Assures of Over N1.27trn Revenue in 2025

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By Ubong Ukpong, Abuja

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) on Monday assured that it would take into the coffers massive revenue of over N1.27 trillion in 2025, representing a 40 percent increase from the N894.86 billion it realized in 2024.

This ambitious target, the Authority said, was anchored on sweeping modernization efforts, the full activation of the Dangote Refinery’s marine operations, and the deployment of cutting-edge technology to enhance port efficiency.

Managing Director of the NPA, Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed this in a presentation during his agency’s budget defence session wih the House of Representatives Committee on Ports and Harbours, where he defended the agency’s 2025 budget estimates and provided insights into its 2024 performance.

“Our 2025 budget proposal is more than figures, it reflects our aspirations for a more efficient, globally competitive port system,” Dantsoho told lawmakers, adding that over 70% of the proposed expenditure will go into capital projects.

For 2024, the Authority surpassed its revenue target of N865.39 billion, posting an actual realization of N894.86 billion.

However, Dantsoho revealed that only N417.86 billion, less than half of the approved N850.92 billion expenditure, had been spent as of the time of reporting.

Despite this, NPA made a record contribution of N400.8 billion to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) in 2024, nearly double the N213.23 billion remitted in 2023. Of this amount, a staggering N344.7 billion was deducted at source.

“This shows our unwavering commitment to national revenue generation, even when our own operational liquidity is affected,” the NPA boss stressed.

Dantsoho said the projected revenue increase is premised on several key assumptions and developments, including: The full operation of the Dangote Refinery, which alone is expected to draw in over 600 vessels annually through its Single Point Mooring (SPM) system; the commissioning of upgraded terminals at WACT and OMT, which will enhance container traffic; the implementation of automation tools such as the National Single Window, Port Community System (PCS), and Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS); and increased cargo volumes stemming from global disruptions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which has affected global trade routes.

He said the 2025 revenue is expected to come from the following key sources: Ship Dues, N544.06 billion; Cargo Dues, N413.06 billion; Concession Fees, N249.69 billion; and Administrative Revenue, N73.07 billion

Of the proposed N1.14 trillion total expenditure for 2025, N778.46 billion is earmarked for capital projects.

This investment, he said, will target the revitalization of critical infrastructure, including the Calabar, Warri, and Burutu ports and channels, and enhance towage services, channel depth, and compliance with international security conventions.

“Investments in infrastructure and technology are non-negotiable if we are to stay competitive regionally and globally,” Dantsoho emphasized.

He cited increasing competition from neighboring ports and aging assets across Nigeria’s coastal corridors.

The NPA also intends to address technology gaps by upgrading legacy systems and bolstering cybersecurity, ensuring Nigerian ports meet global standards for digital operations.

“We can say that with timely access to internally generated revenue and capital funds NPA would deliver the kind of impact Nigeria expects,” he said.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Nnolim Nnaji, urged the NPA to ramp up performance, improve port infrastructure, and play a greater role in addressing Nigeria’s revenue and unemployment challenges.

Nnaji said the ports remain a critical pillar of Nigeria’s economy, and urged the agency to meet rising expectations despite operational challenges.

“No country can thrive economically without high-performing ports. They are the economic heartbeat of every nation, determining how buoyant a country is through the flow of imports and exports,” Hon Nnaji said.

The committee praised NPA for its performance.

Nnaji stressed that the NPA’s performance has implications beyond maritime activity, noting that increased port output can significantly boost job creation across several sectors.

“The Nigerian Ports Authority is not just a revenue-generating agency, it is a national asset in terms of employment and economic impact.

“We expect to see detailed strategies on how to improve revenue generation and expand employment opportunities through your 2025 budget,” he said.

The lawmaker also pointed to growing interest in the development of new ports across the country but cautioned against neglecting existing port infrastructure.

“As we welcome investment in new ports, we must not abandon the old ones. Maintaining and upgrading our existing ports, both in the Eastern Corridor and the Western axis, is essential to long-term sustainability,” he added.

The Committee called for a clear outline from the NPA on how its 2025 financial plan will address pressing national concerns and reaffirm Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global maritime trade.

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Economy

Senate Sets N10trn Revenue Target for NCS, Urges Agency to Curb Smuggling, Illicit Drugs

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By Eze Okechukwu, Abuja

The Senate, through its Committee on Customs has set a revenue target of N10 trillion for the Nigeria Customs Service for the 2025 fiscal year, instead of the initial N6.584 trillion given to her earlier on while urging the agency to clamp down on smuggling and Illicit drugs.

The Chairman of the Committee, Senator Isah Jibrin (Kogi East), who gave the agency the marching order yesterday in Abuja during the budget defence of the revenue driving agency however commended her for exceeding its 2024 revenue target of N5.

079 trillion.

The NCS team led by Deputy Comptroller General, Jibo Bello who represented the Comptroller General presented the 2024 budget performance with a revenue target of N5.

079 trillion, stressing that the proposal was exceeded by over a trillion naira.

The Committee, obviously impressed by the performance commended NCS before asking them to go ahead and present the 2025 budget proposal, which the agency tied at N6.584 trillion revenue target with an expenditure of N1.132 trillion.

Following their presentation, members of the Senate Committee on Customs unanimously approved the recommendation of the revenue target of N6.584 trillion and the expenditure of N1.132 trillion for the 2025 financial year.

The Committee will subsequently present the budget proposal to the Senate at plenary most likely this week as the red chamber resumes today after a long recess tied to Eid celebration.

In his final remarks, Senator Jibrin emphasised the need for the NCS to rise up in terms of its surveillance with respect to illicit drugs and smuggling “to ensure that, as much as possible, you should be on top of your game”.

He said there are so many illicit drugs flowing all over the place, which according to him “is contributing to the issue of banditry in Nigeria because most of these guys are on drugs. What I’m saying is that, in addition to your revenue drives, you should also be mindful of some of these other functions.

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