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Afreximbank, Govt. of Bahamas Sign Host Country Agreement

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African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas on Thursday signed the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM) Host Country Agreement.

The signing ceremony was held during a media briefing on Thursday in the Bahamas.

NAN reports that the 31st AAM2024 will be hosted in Nassau, Bahamas, from June 12 to 15, 2024 with the theme “Owning Our Destiny: Economic Prosperity on the Platform of Global Africa.

Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, in his remarks, said the signing ceremony was an important boost for the Bahamas and Africa and the Caribbean (AfriCarabian) visions.

“It is with immense pride that we officially sign the agreement for the Bahamas to host the AAM in June.

“Our ancestral history is marked by strength in the face of adversity, duty and creativity amid scarcity and the pursuit of self-determination.

“Our dreams, hopes and aspirations are encapsulated in this moment as we look forward to a future where Africa and the Caribbean stand shoulder to shoulder not just in solidarity but for economic collaboration for mutual prosperity.”

Davis said the AAM2024 meeting in the Bahamas was a symbol of what Africa and the Caribbean could accomplish through duty and collaboration.

“ In today’s world amid economic and environmental challenges, instead of building more walls, we choose to build bridges of trade, innovation, financial integration and most importantly bridges connecting our people and culture.

He said the Bahama’s commitment to the mission was underscored by the preparations underway to ensure the AGM stood as a forum for dialogue and impact deliberations and collaborations.

“ We are setting the stage for discussions to aid us in navigating the challenges of our times which include inclusivity, and the digital transformation of our economy.

“For the bank and our partners, we extend our deepest gratitude for entrusting us with the honour of hosting this significant event.

“Together we are celebrating the spirit of partnership, economic union of dreams, dreams of our ancestors and dreams of future generations that we pledge to realise through unity, collaboration and mutual respect.”

Davis said that in November 2022 The Bahamas and  other Caribbean countries signed an agreement with AFreximbank to forge a future for the advancement of the African and Caribbean people and their economies.

The prime minister said Afreximbank’s commitment to expanding operations in the Caribbean was seen in its establishment of the Caribbean Africa Bank, adding that it was an example of potential for development in the region.

“ As we come for the meetings, it will be remembered for the decisions made and agreements signed but also more significantly as Africa and the Caribbean came together for a better future,” he said.

Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman Board of Directors, Afreximbank, said the signing of the agreement would solidify the partnership between Afreximbank and the Caribbean.

Oramah said the partnership would form a platform for global Africa to take its destiny into its hands.

He said he was grateful to the prime minister, the government and the people of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas for the honour of agreeing to host the AAM2024.

“ By holding the 31st AAM, we collectively make a strong commitment to elevating the collaboration between the Afreximbank, the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and the entire Caribbean region to a higher pedestal.

“It bears testament to the depth of your government’s appreciation of the importance of our unique partnership in catalysing shared growth and prosperity for all of Africa and the Caribbean.

“It affirms commitment to ensure inclusiveness and bring the bank’s services to the doorsteps of the people.

“Bringing the meeting to the Caribbean also offers us the opportunity to celebrate the progress we have made so far between Africa and the Caribbean.”

Oramah said the bank was working with the government of the Bahamas to develop an Afro-Caribbeann marketplace in the Bahamas.

He said, when completed, it would be a permanent marketplace that would house manufacturing warehouses, and be a distribution and logistic hub for various tradable merchandise that Africa and the Caribbean would produce.

“It will finally establish the Bahamas as a gateway into the Caribbean and we hope the government will work with us diligently to bring this project to completion.”

Oramah said no fewer than 4,000 participants were expected at the AAM2024 adding that the opening ceremony would be held on June 13, which would be attended by Heads of State and Heads of governments.

He said others in attendance at the meetings would be African/Caribbean leaders and senior government officials, African and non-African policymakers, corporate leaders, bankers, academics and other thought leaders.

Oramah said there would be keynote presentations by policymakers and economists and a dedicated session to showcase trade and investment opportunities in the Caribbean and the Bahamas as well as sessions on youths, innovations and the creatives.

He said the 3rd Annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2024) will be incorporated into the AAM2024. (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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