Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has, once again, reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s dedication and commitment to easing the economic hardship of Nigerians as a result of the removal of fuel subsidies and other policies of the government.

Idris, who gave the assurance during a live radio programme on the Hausa service of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) titled, “Hannu Da Yawa,” said fuel subsidies primarily benefited a select few wealthy Nigerians to the detriment of the ordinary Nigerian masses.

The minister, however, emphasized that the Tinubu-led administration was working towards economic stability, even as the president had urged ministers to cut expenses by limiting official vehicles and personnel on assignments.

“President Tinubu is pointing out the need to change from the old ways of doing things in Nigeria,” Idris said.

He noted that the cost-saving measures, though seemingly small, are expected to make a significant impact.

He also stated that the recent renaming of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security reflects Tinubu’s commitment to addressing agricultural issues from multiple angles, particularly to improve food security.

On security, Idris said Tinubu’s administration has continued to acquire resources for security agencies and support personnel welfare, while consultations on establishing state police are ongoing.

Idris also urged Nigerians to responsibly use social media to portray the country positively, emphasizing collective responsibility in shaping Nigeria’s image.

Zambia and Japan, during the weekend, celebrated 60 years of bilateral relationship on the occasion of the African country’s 60th Independence Anniversary celebration held in Tokyo on Saturday.

Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Tobias Mulimbika, who led the celebrations, lauded the longstanding partnership between Zambia and Japan, emphasizing their shared commitment to democracy, human dignity, peace, and equitable development.

In a statement released by Faith Chilube, First Secretary, Press and Public Relations, at the Zambian Embassy in Japan, Mulimbika highlighted Japan’s investment in Zambia’s energy and mining sectors, calling these areas vital for Zambia’s economic growth and pivotal in addressing global climate change and advancing the green energy transition.

“With enhanced cooperation, Zambia and Japan have made tangible progress in infrastructure development, creating jobs and fueling economic growth,” the Ambassador said, while expressing appreciation for Japan’s six decades of support to Zambia.

He also pointed to Zambia’s potential in renewable energy, particularly wind and solar and encouraged Japanese firms to invest in building a resilient energy sector that can support both national growth and regional stability in the SADC region.

In a congratulatory message, Toshihiko Horiuchi, Director General of Japan’s Africa Division, extended Japan’s best wishes on Zambia’s 60th Independence Anniversary and six decades of diplomatic relations.

“Having spent time in Zambia, I can personally attest to its vast potential, not only in mineral resources but also in agriculture and tourism,” Horuichi said, further reaffirming Japan’s interest in broadening investment across these sectors.