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China Backs Nigeria’s Request to Increase Currency Swap Deal

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The People’s Republic of China has confirmed its willingness to review Nigeria’s request to expand the existing bilateral currency swap agreement.

This update was shared by China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, during a briefing with State House Correspondents following his meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, on Thursday.

The currency swap, initially signed in 2018 between the People’s Bank of China and the Central Bank of Nigeria, was valued at CN¥15 billion, which amounted to approximately N720 billion (roughly US$2.5 billion at the time). The deal was designed to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on the US dollar, stabilize its foreign reserves, and foster increased trade and investments between the two countries.

Wang Yi emphasized the positive momentum in financial relations between the two nations and invited Nigeria to explore opportunities in issuing Panda bonds in China. Panda bonds are renminbi-denominated bonds that allow foreign entities to raise capital within China’s domestic bond market. This move would provide Nigeria with a direct channel to China’s liquidity and investor base, offering a diversified funding source and protection against exchange rate risks.

He further explained that issuing Panda bonds could provide Nigeria with additional revenue streams to support infrastructure projects, such as the modernization of the country’s railway system.

Wang Yi said, “We are pleased with the ongoing cooperation, and regarding Nigeria’s interest in increasing the currency swap agreement, we will give it favorable consideration. Nigeria is also invited to issue Panda bonds, as we have full confidence in its economic credibility.”

Additionally, China’s financial backing has supported Phase III of Nigeria’s railway modernization, a tangible example of the growing bilateral cooperation. Wang invited further inquiries about joint initiatives by consulting the Chinese Embassy.

The Foreign Minister also voiced China’s commitment to backing Africa’s security efforts. Both Nigeria and China reject external interference in Africa’s security matters, advocating for African-led solutions to regional challenges. Wang Yi reiterated China’s support for initiatives aimed at strengthening peace and security in Africa, including a CN¥1 billion military assistance package for training 6,000 military personnel and 1,000 law enforcement officers across the continent.

China will continue to support the African Standby Force and contribute to the ongoing peacekeeping operations across Africa. In his remarks, Wang emphasized the importance of multilateralism, the protection of African nations’ rights, and Nigeria’s pivotal role in regional security, particularly in the West African and Sahel regions.

Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, echoed the importance of self-reliance in addressing security challenges. He expressed Nigeria’s desire to work with China to develop domestic military production capabilities, rather than relying on private military companies.

Wang’s visit further solidifies the growing strategic partnership between China and Nigeria, with an emphasis on enhancing trade, agriculture, finance, and mutual prosperity.

Why Athletic Bilbao Club Lost to Barcelona

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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76

Athletic Club’s recent defeat to Barcelona in La Liga has left fans analyzing the reasons behind their team’s inability to secure a win. From tactical shortcomings to individual brilliance, several factors contributed to the outcome.

Tactical Approach: Did Athletic Club Get It Wrong?

Athletic Club’s high-press strategy, while effective in stifling lesser teams, seemed to play into Barcelona’s strengths. The Catalan giants exploited spaces left behind the pressing lines, with quick passes and positional play orchestrated by their midfield maestros.

Expert Analysis:

Sport analyst Austin King highlighted Athletic Club’s inability to adapt:
“When you face Barcelona, you need to relentlessly press them until you break their spirit. Athletic left too much space between their lines, and that’s where Barcelona thrived.”

Midfield Battle: Barcelona’s Dominance

The midfield duel was critical, with Barcelona’s new signings and seasoned players dictating the tempo. Pedri and Gavi controlled possession, while Ilkay Gündoğan’s vision ensured Barcelona maintained attacking momentum.

Athletic Club, on the other hand, struggled to retain possession under pressure. Despite moments of brilliance from Oihan Sancet, their midfield was outclassed in transitions.

Defensive Frailties: Individual Errors Cost Athletic

Athletic Club’s backline showed signs of vulnerability, especially under Barcelona’s relentless attacks. Inigo Martinez, now wearing Barcelona’s jersey, was instrumental in neutralizing his former team’s attacking threats.

The defensive lapses culminated in key moments like:

  • A poorly defended corner leading to a goal.
  • Miscommunication between the center-backs that allowed Barcelona’s attackers to exploit openings.

Barcelona’s Individual Brilliance

A game-changing performance by Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage sensation, proved too much for Athletic Club to handle. His dribbling, pace, and ability to create chances were pivotal.

Additionally, Robert Lewandowski’s clinical finish reminded everyone why he’s one of the best strikers in the world.

Missed Opportunities: Athletic’s Lack of Clinical Edge

While Athletic Club created chances, they failed to convert them. Iñaki Williams had two golden opportunities but couldn’t beat Marc-André ter Stegen, who was in imperious form.

Fans’ Reactions

The loss triggered a mix of disappointment and frustration among Athletic Club supporters. Social media was abuzz with reactions:

  • @BasqueFan23: “Our pressing game was suicidal against a team like Barca. We need to rethink our tactics for big matches!”
  • @RojiblancosForLife: “We had the chances but lacked the composure. Ter Stegen was the difference.”
  • @NeutralView: “Barcelona’s youngsters are scary good. Athletic fought well but couldn’t handle Yamal and Gavi.”

Barcelona fans, meanwhile, praised their team’s resilience:

  • @CuleForever: “Pedri is the heart of our midfield. Gavi is the future. What a team!”

While the loss was disappointing for Athletic Club fans, the match showcased Barcelona’s tactical acumen and individual brilliance. Athletic Club has the potential to bounce back but needs to refine its strategies against top-tier teams.

FULL LIST: Japa, Agbero, Eba, 17 other Nigerian words added to Oxford Dictionary

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Oxford English Dictionary has recently updated its lexicon with 20 Nigerian words and expressions, reflecting the growing influence of Nigerian culture and language globally.

Among the newly added terms are popular expressions like “japa,” “agbero,” “eba,” “419,” and “abi,” which are widely used in Nigerian Pidgin, street slang, and cultural contexts. These words, integral to the daily lives of Nigerians, demonstrate how local language is being embraced worldwide.

Notably, some of the words, such as “japa” and “jand,” are listed as both nouns and verbs. The update also includes pronunciation guides to help non-Nigerians accurately pronounce these terms.

Kingsley Ugwuanyi, a Nigerian English consultant to the Oxford English Dictionary, proudly announced the inclusion of these words on LinkedIn. Ugwuanyi, who played a pivotal role in drafting the words and recording their pronunciations, expressed excitement about the project. He stated, “I’m thrilled to announce that the Oxford English Dictionary has officially published an update featuring a fantastic selection of Nigerian English words that reflect our culture and creativity.”

The word “japa,” for instance, is defined as the emigration of Nigerians to countries like those in Europe or North America in search of better opportunities, such as education or employment. “Agbero” refers to a young person, typically a boy, who works as a tout, often in car parks or bus stations, collecting money and helping passengers board vehicles.

Another well-known Nigerian term, “419,” is defined as internet fraud involving advance payment for a promised share of a large sum of money, which is never delivered.

Below is the full list of Nigerian words added to the Oxford English Dictionary:

  • 419
  • abi
  • adire
  • agbero
  • area boy
  • cross-carpet
  • cross-carpeting
  • eba
  • Edo
  • gele
  • jand (noun, verb)
  • janded (adjective)
  • Japa (noun, verb)
  • Kanuri
  • Kobo
  • Naija
  • suya
  • Yahoo
  • yahoo boy
  • Yarn Dust

These additions further emphasize the global recognition of Nigerian English and the unique ways Nigerians express themselves.

Rescuers Search For Survivors After Deadly Tibet Earthquake

By
Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
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1

A powerful earthquake in China’s remote Tibet region killed at least 126 people and collapsed “many buildings” on Tuesday, state media reported, with tremors also felt in neighbouring Nepal’s capital Kathmandu and parts of India.

Videos published by China’s state broadcaster CCTV showed destroyed houses with walls torn apart and rubble strewn across the ruins in the aftermath of the earthquake.
The quake struck Dingri county with a magnitude of 6.8 near the border with Nepal at 09:05, according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC).

While earthquakes are common in the region, Tuesday’s quake was the most powerful recorded within a 200-kilometre radius in the last five years, the CENC added.
The US Geological Survey reported the tremor as magnitude 7.1.

Thousands of rescuers arrived Tibet to continue the search for survivors, More than 400 people have been rescued, Chinese state media says.

Videos published by state broadcaster CCTV on Wednesday showed rescue workers pulling injured victims from the rubble of collapsed buildings and carrying them to safety.

Footage also showed a man in a dusty, thick winter coat carrying a crying child piggyback as a rescue worker draped a jacket over him.
At least 126 people have been confirmed dead and 188 others injured in the Tuesday morning quake that struck rural, high-altitude Tingri county, about 80 kilometres north of Mount Everest near China’s border with Nepal.

More than 3600 houses have collapsed potentially leaving thousands without shelter and over 30000 residents have been relocated, the official Xinhua news agency said, adding that the search for trapped victims is ongoing.
“Rescuers are also racing against time to set up tents for relocated residents in an area where temperatures are forecast to drop,” it added.

The temperature in Tingri is currently minus 11 degrees Celsius, according to the China Meteorological Administration. The county sits at an average altitude of 4500 metres above sea level.

Authorities said more than 12000 people, including firefighters, soldiers, police officers and professional rescuers had been deployed, Xinhua reported.
Aid including tents, quilts and cold-weather equipment had been dispatched by central authorities, it added.

When tourist Meng Lingkang arrived in the town of Lhatse, 65 kilometres from the epicentre, he saw “the buildings had cracked open”.
“Some of the older houses collapsed, and a large part of the buildings made from bricks had cracked open, with big fissures,” the 23-year-old told AFP.
“There were quite a few (rescue vehicles). One after the other they arrived,” he added.

While strong tremors were felt in Nepal, no major damage or casualties were reported, an official from the National Emergency Operations Centre confirmed only “minor damages and cracks on houses”.

The tremors on Tuesday morning, which sent many Kathmandu residents running out of their houses, brought back memories of the deadly 2015 quake. The magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit near Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, killing nearly 9,000 people and injuring more than 20,000.

“In 2015, when the earthquake hit, I could not even move,” Manju Neupane, a shop owner in Kathmandu said . “Today the situation was not scary like that. But, I am scared that another major earthquake may hit us and we will be trapped between tall buildings.”

Who is Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Ghana’s First Female Vice President

By
Yemisi Lanre-Idowu
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20

Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang has officially taken office as the Vice President of Ghana following her swearing-in on Tuesday.

The event took place at the iconic Independence Square in Accra, where Chief Justice Her Ladyship Gertrude Torkornoo administered the oath of office.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang, who served as the running mate to President-elect John Dramani Mahama during the 2024 general elections, has made history as Ghana’s first female Vice President.

Running alongside President-elect John Dramani Mahama, her historic win under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) banner in the 2024 elections has been widely celebrated as a groundbreaking achievement for gender representation in Ghanaian politics.

Who Is Jane Opoku Agyemang?

Jane Opoku Agyemang was born in November 22, 1951. She was married to fellow academic, Edmund Opoku-Agyemang at the age of 33, she has three accomplished children Dr. Kweku Opoku-Agyemang, Dr. Kwabena Opoku-Agyemang, and Dr. Maame Adwoa Opoku-Agyemang and two grandchildren.

Academic Background

Jane Opoku attended Anglican Girls’ School at Koforidua and Aburi Presby Girls’ School. She then had her secondary education at the Wesley Girls High School in Cape Coast from 1964 to 1971.
She completed B.Ed.(Hons) in English and French at the University of Cape Coast in 1977. She earned a Diploma in Advanced Studies in French from the University of Dakar and obtained her master’s degree and Doctorate degrees from York University in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 1980 and 1986, respectively.

She is a full professor of Literature, She served as the first female Vice-Chancellor of a state university in Ghana before taking over as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast.
In March 2007, she was one of five scholars selected to deliver presentations during the 200th Anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

Political Roadmap

Prof Jane Opoku-Agyemany path to this historic moment has been marked by perseverance and dedication to the public. In December 2020 Ghanaian presidential election, she was selected by John Mahama as his running mate on the NDC party ticket. Her 2020 nomination as the National Democratic Congress (NDC) vice-presidential candidate, though unsuccessful, was a pioneering moment in itself. As the first female running mate for a major political party in Ghana, Opoku-Agyemang broke barriers that had long excluded women from the highest levels of political power.

After she lost the election, she returned to the classroom and in August 2024, she resigned as the Vice-Chencellor of the Women’s University in Africa in Zimbabwe to join politics.

She was selected again as running mate to the 9th parliament John Dramani Mahama in 2024 and won, becoming the first female Vice President of Ghana. Opoku-Agyemang made history as the first elected female VP in the country’s history. The inauguration was attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Senegal’s Bassirou Diomaye Faye; Burkina Faso’s leader Ibrahim Traore; Kenyan President William Ruto; President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Gabon’s Brice Oligui Nguema and other dignitaries across all walks of life.

Her achievement

Prof Jane Opoku-Agyemany has many publications on women in literature, oral literature in Africa and she is a member of Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences and Fellow of the Commonwealth of Learning. She collected local and international awards, including honorary doctorate award.
Prof Opoku-Agyemang is a human right activist that advocate for quality education and end to gender-based violence against Ghanaian women.
During her time in office as minister for education, she championed reforms that expanded access and quality in schools, directly impacting thousands of students across the country.

Impact

Prof Jane Opoku-Agyemany success in the election is more than just a political victory; it symbolises a significant step toward achieving gender equality in a male-dominated field.
This victory is not just for Opoku-Agyemang, but for all women in Ghana and across Africa. Her election represents a powerful symbol of what is possible when women are given the opportunity to lead. It provides hope and inspiration to future generations of women, particularly those aspiring to make their mark in governance and public life.

Ghanaian Reactions On Jane Opoku-Agyemang Becoming First Female Vice-president

Ghanaians has expressed their joy by celebrating Opoku-Agyemany on their social media pages.

X user @NanaAmaBampoh
“Madam Vice President! Your historic achievement is a monumental step for women and young girls, proving that glass ceilings are meant to be shattered. Here’s to inspiring a new generation of empowered leaders! To our visionary President, our hearts are overjoyed with your choice!”

X user @efiadahemaa
“The most alluring thing a woman can have
is confidence. In the future, there will
be no female leaders. There will just be leaders. And begins with you Professor Jane Nana Opoku-Agyeman. You make us women so proud and more daring
Congratulations Ghana !!! “

X user @a_asantewaao
“H. E. Prof. Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang’s swearing in gave me chills bruh!
‘And while she may be the first woman in that office, she will certainly not be the last-because every young woman watching this now knows that such an achievement is within reach.’ “

X user @AmaMarley_
“Her Excellency Professor Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman. Vice President of the Republic of Ghana 🇬🇭

As a little girl, I was always told I could be anything I dreamed of. I grew up during the powerful “Send Your Girl Child to School” movement—a time of possibility and hope. And now, how incredible is it that young girls in Ghana can look up and see a Ghanaian woman leading the way, breaking barriers? A woman of many firsts, the first female Vice President of the Republic of Ghana. What a moment! The glass ceiling isn’t just cracked—it’s shattered! “

Key things you should know about Éric Chelle, Super Eagles New Coach

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Eric Chelle as the new head coach of the Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team, Super Eagles, becoming the third person to take charge of the Super Eagles since the resignation of José Peseiro in March 2024.

The NFF announced the appointment of the Malian tactician in a statement on Tuesday. The 47-year-old was recommended for the job by the NFF technical and development sub-committee on January 2.

Here are key things you should know about Eric Chelle:

  1. He was born on November 11, 1977, in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Chelle holds Malian citizenship. and was raised in France by his French father and Malian mother. He is fluent in French, English, and several African languages.
  2. During his playing days, he was a central defender. Chelle featured prominently in French football, representing clubs like Valenciennes, Lens, Istres, and Chamois Niortais.
    He earned five caps for the Malian national team between 2004 and 2006.
  3. Chelle transitioned into coaching, where he was appointed head coach of the Mali national team in May 2022, guiding them to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, a competition in which the Super Eagles, led by Jose Peseiro came second. He managed clubs such as GS Consolat (France amateur league), FC Martigues (Ligue 2), Boulogne (Championnat National), and MC Oran (Algerian Ligue), which spans from 2017 to 2022.

4.His journey with the Malian national team ended when he was dismissed by Mali’s football body in June 2024, gathering two years of experience as a national coach.

Notable Eric Chelle’s Achievements

His highest achievement as a national team coach is taking the Mali national team to the quarter-finals of the AFCON in 2023. Chelle boasts a career record of 67 wins, 40 draws, and 41 losses, resulting in a win percentage of 45.27%.

Éric Chelle is the first-ever non-Nigerian African to be named the head coach of the Eagles.
Chelle’s appointment takes effect immediately, and he is responsible for guiding the Super Eagles to earn a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals.

The Malian’s first task will be the next round of games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe in March. Nigeria are currently fifth in Group C of the qualifier. The team is also winless after four games.

EFCC: Five Top Corruption Allegations Against Nigeria’s Anti-corruption Body

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is Nigeria’s premier agency tasked with combating financial crimes and corruption. However, over the years, the EFCC itself has faced allegations and instances of corruption within its ranks.

Here are five notable cases highlighting corruption issues involving the EFCC:

1. Dismissal of 27 Corrupt EFCC Officers

In a significant move to address internal corruption, the EFCC dismissed 27 of its officers following investigations into their involvement in corrupt practices. This internal purge followed investigations revealing that these personnel had engaged in misconduct, including bribe-taking, extortion, and the illegal diversion of funds recovered from suspects.  

2. $400,000 Fraud Investigation

The EFCC initiated a probe into a $400,000 fraud complaint involving some of its personnel. The money had been recovered during a raid on a suspect’s premises but was unaccounted for in official records.

3. Allegations Against Former EFCC Chair Ibrahim Lamorde

Ibrahim Lamorde, who served as EFCC Chairman from 2011 to 2015, faced allegations of diverting funds recovered from corrupt officials. These allegations came to light during his tenure when whistleblowers claimed that Lamorde failed to account for proceeds from assets seized during corruption cases. A Senate committee investigated claims that he misappropriated over ₦1 trillion in recovered funds. 

Lamorde denied the allegations, and the case drew significant public attention, raising concerns about accountability at the highest levels of the commission.

4. Corruption Allegations Against EFCC Operatives in Port Harcourt

In 2020, some EFCC operatives in the Port Harcourt zonal office were arrested for allegedly extorting money estimated at ₦200 million ($520,000) from suspects under investigation. Investigations revealed that officers had demanded bribes from suspects in exchange for favorable outcomes in their cases.  

5. Suspension of EFCC Acting Chairman Ibrahim Magu

In 2020, Ibrahim Magu, the then-acting Chairman of the EFCC, was suspended following allegations of corruption and insubordination. A presidential panel investigated claims that Magu had mismanaged over ₦39 billion ($100 million) in cash and assets.

The EFCC’s mission to combat corruption is undermined by these cases of internal corruption. Addressing these issues requires stronger internal controls, transparent investigations, and timely prosecution of offenders. Only by setting an example within its ranks can the EFCC regain the trust of Nigerians and effectively combat financial crimes.

China Bank Loans Nigeria $254.76M for Kano-Kaduna Railway Project

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The China Development Bank (CDB) has approved a loan of $254.76 million (€245 million) to support the ongoing construction of the Kano-Kaduna railway project in Nigeria. The announcement, made on Tuesday via the bank’s official website, emphasizes that this financial support will ensure the uninterrupted progress of the project.

The CDB stated, “The bank has recently granted a loan of €245 million ($254.76 million) to the Kano-Kaduna railway project, providing vital financial assistance for its smooth advancement.”

This railway, a 203-kilometer standard-gauge line, will connect Kano, a major commercial hub in northern Nigeria, to Abuja, the nation’s capital. Upon completion, the project will offer a safer, more efficient transportation option for residents and enhance regional connectivity.

The Kano-Kaduna railway is also expected to drive economic growth by encouraging industrial development along its route. Furthermore, the project will create numerous jobs during both its construction and subsequent operation phases.

Construction is progressing smoothly, and the China Development Bank has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the Nigerian government to ensure the timely release of funds and effective management of the project’s next stages.

Initially, the China Exim Bank was set to finance the project but later withdrew, with the CDB stepping in as the new financial backer. The CDB emphasized its ongoing partnership with Nigerian authorities to facilitate the continued disbursement of loans and ensure proper post-loan oversight.

Last year, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu assured that the Ibadan-Abuja-Kaduna-Kano railway project would be completed successfully. The Federal Government is optimistic that the ongoing Kaduna-Kano rail segment will be finished by year-end.

A total of N44.4 billion has been allocated in the 2024 budget for the completion of key railway projects, including the Abuja-Kaduna and Lagos-Ibadan rail lines.

JAMB Remits Over N6bn to FG, Generates N22.9bn in 2024

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced a remittance of over N6 billion to the Nigerian government in 2024. According to the board’s latest weekly bulletin, issued on Monday by its Public Communication Advisor, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, JAMB generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25 in the year, from which N6,034,605,510.69 was remitted to the federal coffers.

Furthermore, JAMB highlighted that a reduction of N1,500 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) form fees for candidates led to an increased effective remittance. With this fee reduction applied to the number of candidates who benefited, the total amount remitted to the government reached N9,013,068,510.69.

The remittance forms part of JAMB’s operating surplus following the successful administration of the 2024 UTME. Additionally, the board shared that over the past seven years under the leadership of its Registrar/Chief Executive, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, JAMB has contributed more than N50 billion to the national treasury.

Reflecting on 2024, JAMB reiterated its commitment to transparency, stating, “In 2024, the board generated a total income of N22,996,653,265.25 and remitted N6,034,605,510.69 to the government. When accounting for the N1,500 reduction in form fees for candidates, the total remittance amount increased to N9,013,068,510.69.”

John Mahama Sworn In As 14th President Of Ghana

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

John Dramani Mahama was inaugurated today as the President of Ghana, marking his third term in office amid significant economic challenges.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at Accra’s Black Star Square, attended by national leaders, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of citizens.

In his inaugural address, President Mahama emphasized his commitment to revitalizing Ghana’s economy, pledging to tackle issues such as corruption, unemployment, and inflation.

He also highlighted plans to reform the cocoa sector and restructure the state regulator to enhance efficiency and support growth in this vital industry.

Mahama’s return to the presidency follows his victory in the December 7 election, where he secured a significant majority, reflecting the public’s desire for change amid the country’s worst economic crisis in a generation.

His administration faces the immediate task of addressing the cost-of-living crisis and restoring public trust through transparent governance and effective economic policies.

The peaceful transition of power reinforces Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy in West Africa, a region often troubled by political instability.

Citizens and international observers alike are hopeful that President Mahama’s leadership will steer the nation toward economic recovery and sustainable development.

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