$50bn Siphoned From Africa, Yearly – UN

The United Nations  yesterday raised concerns over about $50billion it said was channelled out of Africa every year.
The world body described the development as ‘alarming’.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the UN, Mr. Jan Eliason, gave the figure during a visit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Aminu Tambuwal, in Abuja.
Eliason did not clarify whether the money was stolen by government officials and stashed away outside the continent, but merely observed that the money could have done a lot in developing Africa.
He lauded Nigeria’s contributions to global peace-keeping efforts, advising the country to use its diversity to build its people.
“Nigeria is also a world leader in building security, peace-keeping and economic development, and is a strong ally to the United Nations.
“Nigeria has also embraced its multiplicity as a resource and not a problem, and this is a role model for other African countries,” he added.
The speaker praised the UN for supporting Nigeria’s economy and improving lives in Africa.
Tambuwal also spoke on preparations for the 2015 poll, assuring the UN deputy scribe that the National Assembly would ensure that it was conducted peacefully.
Tambuwal spoke further, “On 2015 elections, I would like to assure you and your delegation that National Assembly is doing everything possible to achieve violence free and fair elections in Nigeria through amendment of the electoral laws.”
Meanwhile, a in a resolution in its plenary, the House called for an investigation into the kidnapping incidents uncovered in Soka forest in Ibadan, Oyo State, last weekend.
It urged the National Emergency Management Agency to send relief materials to the victims.