News
China’s strong economic performance during Spring Festival holiday heralds bright prospects
By He Yin, People’s Daily
The strong economic vitality shown in China during the Chinese New Year holiday heralded a rebound of the Chinese economy in 2023.
The country will keep injecting confidence and impetus into the stable progress and recovery of the world ecomomy.
This year’s Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, was the first one after China optimized its COVID-19 response. It attracted high attention from the international media. The country’s recovering tourism sector, rising box office, booming catering industry, and busy travel rush, in the eyes of foreign media outlets, all indicated the energy and vitality of consumption as well as strong impetus of economic recovery.
During the Chinese New Year holiday, about 226 million railway, road, waterway and air passenger trips were made in China. The country measured about 308 million domestic tourist visits, up 23.1 percent year on year, with its domestic tourism revenue increasing 30 percent from a year ago to hit 375.84 billion yuan ($55.4 billion). The holiday box office sold 129 million tickets totaling 6.7 billion yuan, up 13.16 percent. Besides, sales revenue of China’s consumption-related sectors rose 12.2 percent from the same holiday period in 2022 and 12.4 percent from that in 2019.
The remarkable performance fully indicated the resilience, potential and vitality of the Chinese economy. A foreign research institution said the country’s demand is being released as people swarm to tourist sites, restaurants and hotels. International public opinion holds that China is now well prepared to speed up its economy.
Such energy reinforced the international community’s confidence in the country’s economic prospects.
Recently, many international institutions and investment banks have lifted their forecasts on China’s economic growth in 2023, claming that the country’s faster growth will forcefully drive global recovery.
The United Nations, in its report World Economic Situation and Prospects 2023, projected that world output growth will decelerate to 1.9 percent this year, but China’s economic growth will accelerate as a result of the country’s efforts to optimize COVID-19 response and adopt favorable economic policies. The report said China’s economic recovery will assist the growth of the whole region.
The latest Global Fund Manager Survey by the Bank of America said growth expectations for China are at a 17-year high. Financial Times reported that investors are piling into emerging market stocks and bonds at a near-record rate and most of them are investing in China.
International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said China’s successful economic reopening is very likely the single most important factor for global growth in 2023.
China’s economic energy strengthened the resilience and dynamics for global recovery and development. As China optimized its COVID-19 response and resumed outbound tourism for Chinese citizens, many Chinese people went abroad for vacation, which brought important benefits to local tourism and even economic recovery of the destinations.
With local traditional songs and dances, Indonesia’s famed resort island of Bali welcomed back the first batch of Chinese tourists by charter flight after the Chinese government optimize its COVID-19 rules, and Maldives welcomed the first direct flight from China with a water cannon salute at the Velana International Airport.
Besides, officials of Thailand, the Philippines, and Cambodia received Chinese tourists at airports in person, and the Jungfrau ski region in Switzerland made a rabbit ice sculpture for Chinese tourists and decorated cableway stations with Chinese New Year ornaments and red lanterns.
Reuters said Chinese tourists have always been a pillar of global retail and tourism industries, and their comeback will no doubt revive the global tourism that had been severely impacted.
According to a recent report issued by the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office, the rising number of Chinese outbound tourists is expected to boost economic growth in the region.
Credit rating agency Fitch Ratings also believes that the resumption of outbound tourism in China will revitalize the growth prospects for economies that enjoy developed tourism.
As China has entered a new phase of COVID-19 response and accelerated the resumption of work and life, it will see strengthened internal forces driving economic growth and constant releasing of dividends from deepening reform and opening up.
The Chinese economy will continue demonstrating strong resilience, enormous potential and huge vitality, and will inject confidence and impetus into the stable progress and recovery of the world economy, despite the complex and unpredictable international situation and bigger downward pressure on global economy.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
News
Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity
A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.
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