By Alexis Uchendu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to tackle Nigeria’s education crisis, pledging to reintegrate millions of out-of-school children into classrooms while equipping them with essential skills for the future.

Speaking during a high-level meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace, Tinubu underscored the critical role of education in Nigeria’s socioeconomic growth.

He unveiled plans for innovative programs aimed at addressing the dual challenges of re-enrollment and skill acquisition for children who have missed formal schooling.

“To bridge the gap for those who have been out of school for a while, we will prioritize skills development alongside education,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the importance of vocational training as a complement to classroom learning.

Acknowledging the impact of insecurity on education in certain regions, Tinubu noted progress in stabilizing affected areas and expressed optimism about restoring access to schools.

“With continued efforts, we will achieve security and stability, enabling more children to return to school and families to thrive,” he added.

President Macron praised Tinubu’s vision for educational reform, highlighting Nigeria’s vast potential and reaffirming France’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

Macron reflected on his personal connection to Nigeria during his internship at the French Embassy, where he visited Lagos and Kano, describing the country as “dynamic and full of promise.”

The meeting, attended by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu and French First Lady Brigitte Macron, concluded with mutual pledges to deepen cooperation.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of education and development as cornerstones of the France-Nigeria partnership.

The visit, marked by warm state honors, signaled a renewed focus on enhancing ties between the two nations, with Macron expressing gratitude for the collaboration and reiterating France’s support for Nigeria’s educational and developmental initiatives.

By Alexis Uchendu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for greater French investments in Nigeria’s critical sectors, including food security, energy, solid minerals, education, and defense, during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace on Thursday.

Speaking at a joint press conference, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s immense untapped potential, particularly in agriculture and solid minerals, and encouraged French businesses to capitalize on the nation’s evolving economic landscape.

“Nigeria is ready for business. We welcome foreign investments, especially in agriculture and solid minerals, to ensure food security and economic stability,” Tinubu said.

He further emphasized the importance of education and entrepreneurship in equipping Nigeria’s youthful workforce, urging France to support initiatives aimed at empowering Nigerian youths.

“A well-fed and educated population is critical to a nation’s progress. In the 21st century, no child should go to bed hungry,” Tinubu stated.

On security, the Nigerian leader proposed enhanced cooperation with France to combat terrorism and address migration challenges, emphasizing the need for joint operations to bolster regional stability.

President Macron praised Tinubu’s leadership and reiterated France’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria.

He pledged support for investments in solid minerals, creative industries, and youth-driven programs, expressing optimism for deeper bilateral collaboration.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Minister, Dele Alake, who outlined opportunities in the sector.

The visit concluded with Macron’s assurance of continued partnership with Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu were received with state honors, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria-France relations.

By Faith Adama

In a strategic move to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities, the outgoing U.S. administration under President Joe Biden has recommended that Kyiv lower its conscription age from 25 to 18.

The call comes amid escalating Russian military aggression and growing concerns over Ukraine’s manpower shortages as it struggles to keep pace with Moscow’s expanding military forces.

A senior Biden administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, called the situation “existential” for Ukraine, stressing that the country’s current recruitment efforts are insufficient to offset the devastating battlefield losses.

“Ukraine is not mobilizing enough soldiers to match Russia’s increasingly advanced military resources,” the official explained.

Ukraine had already reduced its conscription age from 27 to 25 in response to the ongoing war, which began in February 2022.

However, the U.S. believes that further lowering the age threshold could be crucial for maintaining a robust fighting force, particularly as Russia continues to escalate its offensive.

While the Biden administration has clarified that U.S. military aid to Ukraine is not contingent on this policy change, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stressed the importance of manpower in the ongoing conflict.

“Weapons and equipment are vital, but training and reinforcing Ukraine’s ranks are equally critical,” he said.

This recommendation comes at a time when President-elect Donald Trump is hinting at a possible shift in U.S. policy toward Ukraine.

Trump, who has previously claimed he could broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia within 24 hours, has nominated retired General Keith Kellogg as his special envoy for Ukraine.

Kellogg has been vocal in advocating for peace talks with Moscow and has suggested that NATO should delay offering membership to Ukraine in exchange for Russian security guarantees.

With the Biden administration’s focus on reinforcing Ukraine’s military, and Trump’s potential change in course, the next few months will be pivotal in determining the direction of U.S. support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war.