News
IHRO-Africa Nigeria Chapter Welcomes Koussou as New Chairman
The International Human Rights Observatory Africa (IHRO-Africa), a prominent civil society organization, on Friday inducted Ambassador Daniel Koussou as the Chairman of the Committee on Economic Diplomacy, Trade, and Investment in Nigeria.
The induction ceremony, held in Lagos, marks a significant appointment for Koussou, who is a philanthropist and the Chief Executive Officer of Dau-O-Gik Oil and Gas.
Dr. Chimbo Obieze, Country Director of BIGWIL IHRO-Africa, highlighted the rigorous integrity investigation that preceded Koussou’s selection.
Speaking at the event, Obieze expressed confidence in Koussou’s ability to lead with distinction. He urged him to embody patience, perseverance, courage, and determination to excel in his new role.
“On behalf of the Supreme Council of IHRO-Africa, under the leadership of His Excellency Prof. J. O. Oguleri, Head of Africa Mission; Dr. Mariia Atrott, Secretary General; Prof. Abdu Shaffa, National Secretary, and the executive members of BIGWIL IHRO-Africa, I am honoured to induct Ambassador Daniel Koussou as Chairman of the Committee on Economic Diplomacy, Trade, and Investment,” Obieze said.
Obieze praised Koussou’s dedication to fostering economic growth and development across the African continent. He noted that Koussou’s experience in diplomacy and trade would play a crucial role in driving the committee’s agenda.
“As Chairman, you will lead and coordinate efforts to promote economic diplomacy, facilitate trade, and attract investment to our region. Your leadership will advance our mission to promote sustainable development and prosperity for all. We have full confidence in your ability to fulfill this role with excellence,” Obieze added.
Obieze further reflected on the strides made by BIGWIL IHRO-Africa in advancing human rights and empowering marginalized communities throughout Africa. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to peace, justice, and equality, aligning with the values of the International Human Rights Organisation and the United Nations.
Amaka Ezedioranma, an official at the event, highlighted that IHRO-Africa is an international Civil Society Organisation with its headquarters in Kenya.
She elaborated on the organization’s mission to collaborate with African governments and civil society bodies to promote the African Charter, which was adopted during the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) meeting of African heads of state in Kenya in 1981.
Ezedioranma explained that IHRO-Africa’s focus includes fostering regional and national economic development, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. The organization also supports initiatives in human rights campaigns, health, education, and cultural development across Africa.
In his acceptance speech, Koussou expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. “I am humbled and honoured to receive this privilege of not only serving humanity but also protecting the weak and those unable to speak. I excitedly accept this responsibility,” he said.
Koussou outlined his vision for improving Nigeria’s global image, stating that efforts were already underway to show the world that the country is a safe and attractive destination for international investors.
He emphasized the need for integrity and value-driven leadership, noting that his committee would focus on empowering Nigerians and delivering tangible results.
“So, this particular chapter, we will ensure that adding value becomes our core message. In this office, we will be known for delivering significant value,” Koussou concluded.
The Federal Government has declared Friday, 18 April and Monday, 21 April 2025 as public holidays to mark Good Friday and Easter Monday celebrations across the country.
This was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
“Announcing this on behalf of the Federal Government, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo extended heartfelt congratulations to Christians across the country on this joyous occasion,” the statement read.
The Minister emphasised the significance of Easter, urging Christians to reflect on the virtues of sacrifice, love, and selflessness exemplified by Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for the redemption of humanity.
Dr Tunji-Ojo also encouraged Nigerians to use the holiday period to offer prayers for peace, unity, and stability in the country. He reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at driving national growth and development.
In his message, the Minister called on citizens to extend love and goodwill to their neighbours through acts of kindness and generosity, embodying the spirit of Easter.
He concluded by wishing Christians a blissful Easter celebration and extended warm holiday greetings to all Nigerians.
There was pandemonium on Tuesday at the Ibadan outlet of CBEX, a digital trading asset firm, as angry investors stormed the premises in protest, vandalising property and looting valuables.
The unrest, which occurred in the Oyo State capital, was triggered by reports that investors had been unable to access or withdraw funds from their accounts on the platform for several days. Matters escalated when many of them reportedly discovered that their investments had completely vanished.
The protest, initially peaceful, quickly degenerated into violence, resulting in looting and physical assaults on some staff members of the firm. Witnesses say the situation became uncontrollable as emotions flared and the aggrieved investors accused the company of operating a Ponzi scheme.
The affected investors were said to cut across various walks of life, including artisans, traders, and civil servants, all of whom had put their trust—and money—into the digital trading venture.
It took the intervention of security operatives to restore calm and disperse the rampaging crowd. Officers have since cordoned off the building and maintained a presence overnight to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
As of Wednesday morning, normalcy had returned to the area. Vehicular and pedestrian movement has resumed, with business activities gradually picking up.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but concerned stakeholders are calling for a thorough investigation into the operations of CBEX to protect future investors from similar occurrences.
There was pandemonium on Tuesday at the Ibadan outlet of CBEX, a digital trading asset firm, as angry investors stormed the premises in protest, vandalising property and looting valuables.
The unrest, which occurred in the Oyo State capital, was triggered by reports that investors had been unable to access or withdraw funds from their accounts on the platform for several days. Matters escalated when many of them reportedly discovered that their investments had completely vanished.
The protest, initially peaceful, quickly degenerated into violence, resulting in looting and physical assaults on some staff members of the firm. Witnesses say the situation became uncontrollable as emotions flared and the aggrieved investors accused the company of operating a Ponzi scheme.
The affected investors were said to cut across various walks of life, including artisans, traders, and civil servants, all of whom had put their trust—and money—into the digital trading venture.
It took the intervention of security operatives to restore calm and disperse the rampaging crowd. Officers have since cordoned off the building and maintained a presence overnight to forestall further breakdown of law and order.
As of Wednesday morning, normalcy had returned to the area. Vehicular and pedestrian movement has resumed, with business activities gradually picking up.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the matter, but concerned stakeholders are calling for a thorough investigation into the operations of CBEX to protect future investors from similar occurrences.
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