Afghan, U.S. Embassy Delegation Discuss Reopening In Kabul, Bilateral Relations

Afghan, U.S. embassy delegation discuss reopening in Kabul, bilateral relations. The Afghan interim government’s spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, has said several key issues, including reopening the U.S. Embassy in Kabul and transferring control of the Afghan Embassy in Washington, were discussed with the U.S. delegation.

“Negotiations for handing over the Afghan Embassy in the United States are ongoing,” Mr Mujahid said in an interview with Al Arabiya TV.

“We also want the U.S. Embassy to resume its activities. The U.S. delegation returned to the U.S. with several issues to address, and we will wait to see what steps Washington will take,” Mr Mujahid added.

Afghan

He emphasised that the interim government had ended the war with the U.S. and committed to establishing positive relations with the country.

Since the interim government took power in August 2021, a U.S. delegation visited Kabul for the first time last week.

They discussed bilateral relations and a prisoner exchange with the Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Gov. Umo Eno Inspects Facilities At DASAC Ahead Of Maiden Graduation Ceremony

Gov. Umo Eno inspects facilities at DASAC ahead of maiden graduation ceremony. Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed satisfaction with the facilities and training at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC), Ikot Ada Edem, in Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area.

Governor Eno shared his thoughts during a brief stopover at the center while on his way to flag off road construction projects in Ibiono Ibom and Ikono Local Government Areas.

He said, “I am quite impressed by the standard of facilities and training here. I came here unannounced, and from what I have seen, it looks like the school is ready.

You have seen it yourself. The Rector and her team are doing a great job here, and I am very proud of them.”

The Governor also used the opportunity to visit the Akwa Ibom State contingent to the Niger Delta Sports Festival, who are camped at the facility, and charged them to strive for victory.

The Rector of the institution, Prof. Enoidem Usoro, who conducted the Governor around the facility, spoke on the viability of the center, noting that the facilities and their products are world-class.

Umo Eno Inspects Facilities

She assured everyone that the trainees have been equipped with the requisite skills to excel in their chosen professions and invited the Governor to the graduation ceremony of the first batch of trainees, scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2025.

The Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre boasts schools of Fashion, Catering, Agribusiness, ICT, Metal Technology, Wood Technology, among others.

Governor Okpebholo Flags Off 2025 Farming Season, Allocates N70bnt To Agriculture

Governor Okpebholo flags off 2025 farming season, allocates N70bn to agriculture. The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) commended Mr Okpebholo for launching the farming season and prioritising the agricultural sector.

Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday in Benin, flagged off the 2025 farming season, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to making the state a leader in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Represented by the head of service, Anthony Okungbowa, the governor announced that N70 billion had been allocated to agriculture in the 2025 budget to boost the sector.

He emphasised that the flag-off marked a significant step toward enhancing agriculture, ensuring food security, and increasing farmers’ incomes and production levels across the state.

“The N70 billion allocation reflects our government’s commitment to transforming agriculture into a major contributor to Edo’s economy while improving livelihoods for our citizens,” he said.

Mr Okpebholo noted that since assuming office in November 2024, his administration had prioritised agriculture as part of its development agenda, recognising its role in job creation, economic growth, and food security.

Under the Back to Farm Initiative, he explained that large farmlands would be developed across the state’s three senatorial districts to enhance large-scale farming and boost productivity.

“To ease farming, the government will provide modern equipment and machinery to reduce labour intensity, enabling farmers to benefit from technological advancements and improve farm output.

“We will also increase incentives for farmers and deploy trained extension officers to provide real-time guidance, ensuring improved farming practices and higher yields across the state,” he assured.

He said he would also invest in better road networks, storage facilities, and irrigation systems to facilitate the transportation of goods, reduce post-harvest losses, and support the agricultural sector.

The governor urged farmers to take full advantage of the farming season, adopt improved agricultural methods, and contribute to making Edo a leading agricultural hub in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Peter Osagie, described the 2025 farming season as the beginning of a new agricultural cycle and a source of renewed hope for farmers.

“Through the Back to Farm Initiative, over 1,500 hectares of farmland will be developed, supporting both smallholder and commercial farmers with land access and extension services.

“As we enter the planting season, we move forward with clear direction and renewed energy, from land clearing and mechanisation to improved seeds and farmer support initiatives,” Mr Osagie said.

Governor Okpebholo

He disclosed that the government was strengthening ongoing programmes, such as the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Programme (LPRES), while promoting climate-smart agriculture and fostering strategic partnerships.

In his goodwill message, Bako Dogwo, chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), commended Mr Okpebholo for launching the farming season and prioritising the agricultural sector.

Mr Dogwo, however, urged the governor to address security concerns, particularly the threats posed by herdsmen and kidnappers, which he noted could hinder the state’s agricultural development.