Floods in Nigeria's Borno State Kill Over 30 and Displace 1 Million Amid Humanitarian Crisis
Floods in Nigeria’s Borno state kill over 30 and impact one million in worsening humanitarian crisis.
Devastating floods in Nigeria’s Borno state have killed over 30 people and affected around one million, making the region's humanitarian crisis even worse. Triggered by a dam collapse, these floods have increased the risks of waterborne diseases and left displaced populations struggling without food, clean water, or medical care. As flooding worsens across West and Central Africa, aid agencies report being overwhelmed with 1.5 million people displaced and around 465 deaths so far.
Meanwhile, over in Saudi Arabia, its capital market institutions saw a 27% revenue surge in Q2 of 2024, reaching $1.1 billion, primarily driven by asset management and investments. Despite a slight 3% drop in net profits due to higher non-operating expenses, the total assets grew substantially, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of economic diversification.
Transitioning to Qatar, the country's industrial production index climbed by 6% in July, boosted by a 5.5% increase in mining sector output. The manufacturing sector also saw growth, led by refined petroleum products, basic metals, and chemicals, although the index noted a 4% year-on-year decline largely due to reduced crude oil and natural gas output.
In other news, Saudi Arabia continues to make strides in peaceful nuclear energy, with ongoing work on its first nuclear power plant. Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced at the IAEA General Conference that Riyadh will host an International Conference on Nuclear Emergencies in 2025, following the Kingdom’s alignment with international regulatory standards and collaboration with the IAEA on global radiological monitoring.
Speaking of Saudi Arabia, the country is also strengthening its economic ties with Egypt under the Saudi Vision 2030, as highlighted by Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih. He pointed out that trade volume between the two nations surpassed 124 billion in 2022-2023 and noted the growth in investment licenses for Egyptian investors in Saudi Arabia, with new agreements aimed at protecting Saudi investments in Egypt.
Lastly, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) will be hosting the second International Labor Market Conference (GLMC) in Riyadh from January 29-30, 2025, under King Salman’s patronage. With over 200 speakers from 50 countries, the conference will delve into global labor market challenges and strategic solutions, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on skill development, digital technologies, productivity, and SME innovation.