FG, labour talks collapse, NLC begins strike Aug 14
by Deborah Tolu-Kolawole
Barely 24 hours after meeting with President Bola Tinubu where an agreement was reached to call off their protests, the rapprochement between the organised labour and the Federal Government appeared to have collapsed as the unions on Thursday night vowed to embark on a nationwide strike from August 14 if their leaders were summoned for contempt of court orders.
 The Nigeria Labour Congress hinged its decision on the contempt of court application filed by the Federal Ministry of Justice against the labour leaders on Wednesday.
It threatened to down tools should the Federal Government fails to withdraw the lawsuit accusing the labour leadership of disobeying court orders.
The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, announced the decision on Thursday night after the union’s National Executive Council meeting which was held in Abuja.Â
In a bid to avert a strike by the labour movement last month, the FG had through the Federal Ministry of Justice secured an order from the National Industrial Court restraining the NLC and the Trade Union Congress from embarking on any strike action over issues bordering on “removal of fuel subsidy, hike in prices of petrol and consequential increase in cost of living,†pending the determination of the suit.
The Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba, in a statement, urged the NLC to withdraw the seven-day notice it issued on its plan to commence a nationwide industrial action from August 2, if the demands of labour unions were not met.
The justice ministry sternly warned in a statement on July 26 that the planned strike by the union would be contempt of court, an offence that is punishable by imprisonment.
#EndSARS lawyer tackles Lagos over N61m mass burial budget
by Onozure Dania & Gbenga oloniniran
Counsel for some #EndSARS protesters, Mr Adesina Ogunlana, has questioned the N61m budgeted by the Lagos State Government for the mass burial of 103 corpses recovered in the wake of the October 2020 #EndSARS protest.The state government had on Sunday confirmed the authenticity of a leaked letter indicating planned mass burial for 103 corpses. The letter, dated July 19 2023, The letter, signed by the Director-General of the Lagos State Public Procurement Agency, Mr Onafowote Idowu, But Ogunlana, who represented some#ENDSARS protesters who claimed to have either been shot or witnessed soldiers shooting protesters at the Lekki tollgate on October 20, 2020, expressed dismay at the sum budgeted to give mass burial to unclaimed bodies. The activist-lawyer said, “My concern is not about the people that died but the fact that somebody is saying he wants to carry out a mass burial with N61m – the mass burial of unidentified bodies, of degraded bodies that died about two years ago, roughly about 20 or 19 months ago.Â
You want to use N61m for mass burial! It should not even be up to N1m. Is it not just digging a big grave and putting the bodies there? That shows you the exploitation of the ruling class that we have, who are telling the people to bear the pain and to bear with the government.â€
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Abdurahman Bobboi, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Adamawa State, Sanda Lamurde, former Commissioner for Finance in the state, and Feredan George, Chief Store Officer of the Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency. The charges include stealing, forgery, and uttering. The accused pleaded not guilty to the 26 counts, and the prosecution counsel, Abubakar Aliyu, requested a trial date. Justice Aliyu ordered the accused to be remanded in prison custody pending the determination of their bail applications. The case is expected to be adjourned until November 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, 2017.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2017, pg.9
An authorised biography of President Muhammadu Buhari has revealed how he chose Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo as his running mate for the 2015 presidential election despite opposition from national leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. The book, 'Muhammadu Buhari: The Challenges of Leadership in Nigeria,' by Prof. John Paden, was presented at an event in Abuja. The book claims that Tinubu, then Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, and Osinbajo were forwarded to Buhari for him to pick a running mate shortly after the retired general emerged the party's candidate at its convention in Lagos. Paden did not disclose who forwarded the list of the three nominees to Buhari. Although Tinubu was one of the four persons who reviewed the book, he did not raise any objection to the author's claim.
Punch Newspaper, Sunday, September 04, 2016, pg.20
2019: 'Hypocrisy' of Political Class on Restructuring Unmasked
by Alagbe Jesusegun
Political pundits have criticized politicians who were once against restructuring in Nigeria, arguing that they are using it as a bait to endear the people to themselves. Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar initially called for Nigeria's restructuring in 2016, stating that it was necessary to reform the country into a workable entity. However, political pundits believe this was a big bait by an experienced politician with eyes on the 2019 presidential election. Some people have called on the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to listen to the people's call for restructuring, which is featured in the party's manifesto. Some have also called for the implementation of the 2014 National Conference report, which could address major issues affecting the country. However, President Buhari has insinuated that the fight against corruption and insecurity is on his agenda. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, has also been quiet on the restructuring subject, stating that it would bring the much needed balance to the country.
Punch Newspaper, Saturday, September 30, 2017, pg.13
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that 30 political parties will participate in the Ondo State governorship election on November 26, 2016. The parties include the Alliance for Democracy, Social Democratic Party, Peoples Democratic Party, Peoples Redemption Party, All Progressives Congress and Accord Party, Labour Party, Citizen Popular Party, Peoples Party of Nigeria, Allied Congress of Nigeria, National Conscience Party, and Unity Party of Nigeria. The commission is preparing to ensure a free and fair election and will use technology to streamline the process. The commission has initiated voter education, mobilisation, and public enlightenment campaigns to prevent voter apathy and encourage citizens to avoid violence.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, September 21, 2016, pg.12
About 35 ministries, departments, and agencies of the Federal Government failed to appear before the House of Representatives ad hoc committee investigating alleged employment racketeering. The committee, chaired by Yusuf Gagdi, accused the MDAs of lacking respect for constituted authority and ordered them to provide staff members to serve as desk officers. Gagdi had previously urged the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Budget Office, IPPIS, and the FCC to provide desk officers. The four agencies that appeared before the committee were the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, the National Teachers Institute, the National Commission for Colleges of Education, and the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria. Gagdi criticized the MDAs for applying for a waiver for recruitment without advertising, claiming such waivers were usually used to perpetrate fraud.
According to the Nigerian Communication Commission, the fifth-generation network would close the country's fibre connectivity deficit and increase Internet penetration thanks to its widespread wireless connectivity. Nigeria needs three times as much fibre infrastructure as it presently has to achieve around 90% broadband penetration, among other goals, by 2025, according to the World Bank. As the number of 5G devices is anticipated to exceed one billion in the next two years, the cost of 5G devices and related equipment will shortly decline.
Abductions: 15 states enlist 50,000 vigilantes against kidnappers
by Adelani Adepegba
Nigerian state governors have formed vigilante squads to combat kidnappings and bandits. The squads, consisting of vigilantes, hunters, and neighborhood watch groups, will complement police and other security forces. The abductions have taken scores of Nigerians, with some states in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Lagos, and others under siege. The abductors are demanding a N100m ransom for the release of the nine victims. The governors are deploying trained personnel to enhance public safety and bolster existing security structures. The formations are being created due to the thin deployment of security forces, particularly in rural areas, and the increasing number of attacks by non-state armed groups.
Abuja Land: FG may revoke land allocations, demolish 6,000 buildings, slums
by Lara Adejoro, Josephine Ogundeji, Nathaniel Shaibu & Gift Habib
The Federal Government may demolish no fewer than 30 illegal settlements and slums and over 6,000 illegal buildings in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as part of measures to restore the nation’s capital’s master plan. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who dropped the hint on resuming office on Monday, said all illegal buildings distorting the Abuja master plan would be pulled down. Wike vowed to flatten all illegal buildings even if they belonged to a minister or an ambassador. Findings by The PUNCH indicate that the slums that might be affected by the urban renewal programme would include Apo Mechanic Village, Byanzhin, Dawaki, Dei Dei, Durumi, Dutse, Garki, Garki Village, Gishiri, Gwagwalape, Idu, Jabi, Kado Village, Karmo, Karshi, Karu, Katampe, Ketti Village, Kpaduma, Kabusa, Kpana Village, Kubwa, Lokogoma, Lugbe, Mabushi, Mpape, Nyanya and Piya Kasa. Also, those who acquired lands from Abuja indigenes may lose their investments as they were regarded by the FCT Administration as illegal. Checks indicate that the 6,000 structures that may be affected by the restoration plans included buildings that have been abandoned for a long time in violation of the building code.
Academic record: Atiku asks court to overrule Tinubu's objection
by Abdulrahman Zakariyau & Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, has filed a motion to the US Court to overrule President Bola Tinubu's request to stop Chicago State University from releasing his academic record. Atiku has secured an order from a US magistrate for CSU to make Tinubu's academic records available to his legal team. He is seeking to test the authenticity and origin of 12 pages of documents, including two different diplomas, that purport to have been issued by CSU.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 29, 2023, pg.30
The Alliance for Democracy in Ondo State has declared Chief Olusola Oke as its candidate for the November 26 governorship election in the state. Oke defected to the Alliance after the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress failed to adopt the recommendation of the Electoral Appeal Committee, which recommended the annulment of the September 3, 2016, primary of the party in Ondo State. The state Chairman of the Alliance, Mr. Seriki Adebobola, stated that Oke had the capacity to win the election. The party chairman noted that with the coming of Oke to the AD, the party would win the forthcoming governorship election, adding that the party stood a better chance to win the governorship poll with the former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party in its camp. The party chairman also noted that the party stood a better chance to win the governorship poll with the former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party in its camp.
Punch Newspaper, Sunday, September 11, 2016, pg.12
The Federal Government has arraigned Oladipupo Adebutu, the 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, on seven counts related to vote-buying and other electoral offences during the March 18, 2023, governorship poll. Adebutu was arraigned alongside five others before Justice Abiodun Akinyemi of the Ogun State High Court. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges in the criminal case marked AB/10c/2023. The All Progressives Congress had dragged Adebutu before the police, alleging that he induced voters during the poll by allegedly giving out 200,000 vouchers preloaded with N10,000 to prospective voters. The Federal Government filed charges against Adebutu and his PDP allies last year, but their arraignment was stalled as Adebutu was said to have travelled out of the country for medical treatment.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.7
Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited is seeking to borrow N2.3tn ($3bn) from Afrexim Bank to support the naira. Afrexim Bank is currently in talks with oil traders to finance loans, as the naira hit an all-time low of 1,000 to the dollar on the black market.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.24
Super Falcons forward Rahseedat Ajibade is anticipating a tough clash against Australia, After missing the opening game against Canada due to suspension,appearing in her second world cup and tagged as one of the key players for Nigeria, the Atletico Madrid Feminine forward said she is looking forward to the encounter.“Personally, I’m fine. Really pumped up for the game. It’s going to be a difficult game because we’re playing the host team in front of their own fans and at their own stadium with so much crowd. A lot of factors.Barring any knock in the team, I think we’ve got this. I trust the team. We have the capacity; we have the talent and we have the energy.
Alternative power suppliers set to develop mini grids
by Asu, Femi
The Association of Alternative Power Suppliers of Nigeria has expressed the readiness to develop mini grids to augment electricity generation and supply in the country. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission recently unveiled the Draft Mini-Grid Regulation 2016, saying mini grids could be used as a bridge technology to accelerate electrification activities. NERC said the mini-grid regulation was specifically designed to accelerate electrification in areas without any existing distribution grid and areas with an existing but poorly electrified or non-functional distribution grid, especially but not limited to rural areas. The President, AAPSN and Managing Director, AOS Orwell, Mr. Femi Omotayo, said members of the association would provide alternative power mainly through embedded generation projects to fill the supply gap in the power sector. According to Abiola-Odunowo, the association’s plan is to find 10 companies in each local government that can generate one megawatt to start with. He said the mini-grid regulation would afford alternative power producers the opportunity to go to the consumers directly.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, December 15, 2016, pg.31
Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has warned the newly-elected chairmen of the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 additional Local Council Development Areas in the state against short-changing their people. Amosun gave this warning during the swearing-in ceremony for them at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. The new chairmen, all of the ruling All Progressives Congress, were declared winners of the 57 chairmanship seats by the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission in the last Saturday’s council elections in the state. Amosun urged them to see their new status as a “call to service†and urged them to be “transparent, accountable and not short-change the people†lest they would be called to give account of their stewardship to President Muhammadu Buhari’s government of probity. The governor said the position they occupied should be for the growth and development of the people, not for settling political scores.
Punch Newspaper, Sunday, September 11, 2016, pg.13
Amusan missing as AFN releases World Championships list
by Abiodun Adewale
Tobi Amusan, the world women's 100m hurdles champion and record holder, is missing from Team Nigeria's list of 26 athletes for the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, Hungary. The list includes 11 male and 15 female athletes, with Ese Brume, Ruth Usoro, Sade Olatoye, and Chioma Onyekwere among the prominent females. The list also includes national champion Usheoritshe Itshekiri, Favour Ashe, Seye Ogunlewe, Alaba Akintola, Fakorede Adekalu, and Anunagba Karlington. Amusan's participation at the championship has been uncertain due to her provisional suspension by the Athletics Integrity Unit for missing three drug tests this season. The Athletics Integrity Unit has stated that there will be a hearing on her case before the World Championships, but nothing has been heard about the proceedings. Amusan made history at the championships last year, racing to a new world record time of 12.12secs in the semi-finals and 12.06secs in the final to clinch the gold medal.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 09, 2023, pg.30
Analysts raise concern over N3.79tn outside banking system
by Adaji Daniel
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has reported a surge in unbanked money, reaching N3.79tn in June 2024, a significant increase from N3.61tn in April. This has hindered the Central Bank of Nigeria's ability to effectively implement its policies and manage the country's economy. The Central Bank of Nigeria has been promoting financial inclusion through campaigns, but many Nigerians still lack basic banking knowledge. The increasing volume of cash outside the banking system has also raised concerns about potential cash pool inflation. The total currency in circulation increased to N4.05tn in June, while the Central Bank of Nigeria special intervention fund decreased by 35.7%. This reduction could be part of the Central Bank of Nigeria's strategy to manage the country's money supply and stabilize the economy, but it also exacerbates difficulties banks face in meeting recapitalisation demands. The Central Bank of Nigeria's net foreign assets have increased to N18.33tn, signaling strength in the country's external reserves, but net domestic assets have slightly decreased.
Anambra Gov: Ubah Head for Court, Lambasts Wike, Others
by Olusola Fabiyi
Capital Oil Chairman Ifeanyi Ubah has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of a fraudulent primary in the November 18 governorship election in Anambra State. Ubah alleged that the primary was a sham and that the party had the right to trample on its constitution and the Electoral Act. He stated that the list of delegates used for the election was different from the list given to the Independent National Electoral Commission. Ubah, a loyal member of the PDP, described the Anambra governorship primary as a "show of shame" with obvious irregularities. He accused the Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, and some party committee members of robbing the people of their dream for a potential governor.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, October 20, 2016, pg.14
Anambra Poll: PDP Picks Ekwueme's Daughter as Running Mate
by Okafor Tony
A Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out one of nine counts of $1.6bn crude oil fraud against businessman Jide Omokore and five others. Justice Nnamdi Dimgba struck out the eighth count after hearing an application by former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who alleged she was indicted without an opportunity to defend herself. The six defendants include Omokore, his companies Atlantic Energy Brass Development Limited and Atlantic Energy Drilling Concepts Limited. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had preferred nine counts of criminal diversion of about $1.6bn, alleged to be part of proceeds of sales of petroleum products belonging to the Federal Government. Alison-Madueke, currently in the UK, was not listed among the existing six defendants in the case to defend the charge.
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Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 21, 2017, pg.15
Princess Shola Daibo, a candidate of the Accord Party in the upcoming by-election into the Delta State House of Assembly in Warri-South Constituency 1, has accused the All Progressives Congress and the Independent National Electoral Commission of plotting to rig the election. Daibo stated that forces within the APC had concluded plans to rig the election in favour of their candidate. The Accord Party is fielding Daibo for the election scheduled for Wednesday, 26 April, 2017, by INEC. The assembly seat became vacant following the death of Mrs. Omawumi Udoh at a London hospital. After the seat was declared vacant, INEC announced a by-election for Wednesday, April 26, 2017. The Accord Party has condemned the act of cowardice and warned that any attempt to rig the election will be maximally resisted. The party has also reported that the APC lacked the capacity to match the grassroots spread of the Accord Party in Warri-South and had resorted to deploying machinery to emasculate the party and its candidate. The party has also reported on various other news, such as the Niger coup, fire gutting the house of David Church in Lagos, fake customs CG arrests, and the AFCON 2023 fixtures.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared Tony Nwoye, winner of the August 26, 2017 Anambra State APC primary, as the party's standard bearer in the state governorship election. The decision was made at a meeting of the party's National Working Committee, which considered the report of an appeal panel investigating a petition filed by Senator Andy Uba. The committee stated that the integrity of the exercise was not in dispute. Nwoye had to cancel a press conference to fill the Independent National Electoral Commission's nomination forms before the deadline.
APC Crises: Akeredolu, Abraham's Supporters Clash in Ondo
by Peter Dada
Supporters of Chief Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) and Dr. Olusegun Abraham clashed during a peaceful protest in Akure, Nigeria. Abraham's supporters were protesting against Akeredolu's candidacy for the November 2016 governorship election. The protesters were attacked by APC youths carrying Akeredolu's posters and weapons. The clash resulted in the destruction of vehicles and deserted Oyemekun Road, where the secretariat was located. No life was lost, but the situation was calmed by additional policemen. Abraham, a preferred candidate of the party's National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, criticized the incident as uncivilized and urged the APC leadership to let the right candidate be chosen. He emphasized that Akeredolu could not win the upcoming election for the state without his mandate restored. Akeredolu's Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Adesanya, denied that the protesters were members of the APC in the state.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 05, 2016, pg.9
APC crisis; NWC members oppose Ganduje, tip N' central for chair.
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & Dirisu yakubu
Strong indications have emerged that members of the ruling all progressives congress' National working committee may clash with the partys' governors over a plan by the latter to adopt ex-governor Abdullahi Ganduje as the new national chairman of the party.s' THE Development followed the sudden iyiola omisore as the party national chairman and nationalsecretary, respectively.THE Crisis rocking the ruling party had on Tuesday led Adamu and Omisore to resign from their positions after they were accused of high -handedness and financial mismanagement.however findings by punch revealed that Ganduje were opposed by the numbers of choice.
APC crisis; NWC members oppose Ganduje, tip N' central for chair.
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & Dirisu yakubu
Strong indications have emerged that members of the ruling all progressives congress' National working committee may clash with the partys' governors over a plan by the latter to adopt ex-governor Abdullahi Ganduje as the new national chairman of the party.s' THE Development followed the sudden iyiola omisore as the party national chairman and nationalsecretary, respectively.THE Crisis rocking the ruling party had on Tuesday led Adamu and Omisore to resign from their positions after they were accused of high -handedness and financial mismanagement.however findings by punch revealed that Ganduje were opposed by the numbers of choice.
APC crisis;n NWC members oppose Ganduje, tip N' central for chair
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & Dirisu Yakubu
Strong indications have emerged that members of the ruling aLL progressive congress' National working commitee may clash e NWC.some APC NWC members who spoke to PUNCH said they were opposed to the governors' plan ,insisting that the office had been zoned to central geopolitical zone.Ganduje is from North west Geopolitical zone.Continuing, Lukman urged the president to speak up to douse the tension and intervene on time with the ultimate aim of returning the APC to its founding vision of progressive politics.with partys' governors over a plan by the latter to adopt ex-governor Abdullahi Ganduje as the new national chaiman of the party. The development followed the sudden exit of senator Iyiola Omisore as the party s' national chairman and national secretary, respectively. The crisis rocking the ruling party had on Tuesday led Admu Omisore to resign from their positions after they were accused of high-handedness and financial mismanagement by some members of th
APC entrenched Interest plotting to de-market me- Fayemi
by ABIODUN Nejo
The Ekiti State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has said he is alerted to a plot by some individuals and political interests in the All Progressives Congress to activate a spate of negative media campaigns to discredit and portray him as unacceptable to the generality of the people. The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, advised those behind the plot to concentrate on their aspiration rather than engaging in character assassination. The Nigerian Constitution states clearly the qualifications for the position of the President of the country. Every qualified adult has the right to aspire to the number one position, but it is not appropriate to destroy the reputation of a fellow citizen who is perceived as a possible opponent. PUNCH is offering Nigerians up to $14,000- $17,000 (12 million+) in US Dollars through premium domain names and a sharp flusher to save their family from toilet snakes and poop blockages.
APC entrenched Interest plotting to de-market me- Fayemi
by ABIODUN Nejo
The Ekiti State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has said he is alerted to a plot by some individuals and political interests in the All Progressives Congress to activate a spate of negative media campaigns to discredit and portray him as unacceptable to the generality of the people. The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, advised those behind the plot to concentrate on their aspiration rather than engaging in character assassination. The Nigerian Constitution states clearly the qualifications for the position of the President of the country. Every qualified adult has the right to aspire to the number one position, but it is not appropriate to destroy the reputation of a fellow citizen who is perceived as a possible opponent. PUNCH is offering Nigerians up to $14,000- $17,000 (12 million+) in US Dollars through premium domain names and a sharp flusher to save their family from toilet snakes and poop blockages.
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, Dirisu Yakubu, Stephen Angbulu & Ikenna Obianeri
The All Progressives Congress on Thursday slammed the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, for criticising the verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which upheld President Bola Tinubu’s election and the electoral process. This happened as Atiku and Obi attacked the Independent National Electoral Commission over its conduct of the polls. The five-member tribunal had nullified the petitions of Atiku and Obi in the 12-hour judgment delivered on Wednesday. However, speaking on the development during a press conference at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, Atiku said his belief that the PEPC’s judgment left a lot to be desired convinced him to direct his legal team to approach the Supreme Court for redress. The former vice president slammed the Independent National Electoral Commission for poor management of the last general elections which he said the judiciary had a duty to redress. The LP presidential candidate, Obi, has similarly criticised Wednesday’s judgment of the PEPT. The ex-Anambra State governor averred that it was “not conterminous†with justice, adding that everything about the presidential election was not yet over. He insisted the matter had not yet reached its logical conclusion.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has emphasized the importance of the South-East region in Nigeria's presidential race. He emphasized the need for the South-East to join the APC, as it represents the most viable route for any South-East person to the presidency. Odigie-Oyegun also welcomed Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, a former Deputy National Chairman to the Modu Sherrif-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, into the APC. He emphasized the need to win the November 18, 2017 Anambra State governorship election to end the cry of marginalisation by the South-East. He emphasized the importance of unity of purpose and working hard to make Anambra a critical state in the South-East. He emphasized the need for unity among all those aspiring to the governorship seat.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 29, 2017, pg.10
The All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to send emissaries to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar to investigate his grievances against the party. The party may apply sanctions if found guilty. The Organising Secretary of the Adamawa State chapter of the APC, Ahmed Lawan, said plans to address the issue have been delayed by members of the state exco traveling to Saudi Arabia to observe the hajj. The party is concerned about recent utterances credited to the former vice-president, including his remarks that the party abandoned him. Lawan said the party is surprised by the former vice-president's alleged selflessness and the party's failure to reward him. The party plans to summon a meeting with Atiku and take a decision if he lodges complaints.
Punch Newspaper, Monday, September 18, 2017, pg.10
Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has announced that the All Progressives Congress will lead evidence at the election petitions tribunal to show how the Peoples Democratic Party allegedly benefited from electoral fraud during the recent governorship poll. Oshiomhole defended the PDP's candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, who was allegedly denied victory in the election, stating that he is not worth 50,000 votes. He expressed satisfaction with the APC's performance in the September 28 election and emphasized that the victory signaled the final political "funeral" of the PDP godfathers. Obaseki promised to run an all-inclusive government and commended the Islamic council for their support before and during the election. He also urged the governor-elect to be resolute in achieving his objectives and to be accessible to the citizens of the state. Obaseki's tenure will end on November 12.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, September 06, 2016, pg.12
Aregbesola Drops Ige, Akande's Children Nominates Ex-Senate as Commissioner
by Makinde Femi
Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola has dropped the names of two influential politicians, Muyiwa and Temitope Ilori, from his cabinet list. Aregbesola was re-elected for his second term in office in November 2014 and has run the government without a cabinet since then. The list of nominees sent to the House of Assembly for confirmation included a former senator representing Osun West in the Senate, Husein Mudasiru, and 38 others as commissioner and special adviser-designates. The House of Assembly was filled to capacity as families, friends, and well-wishers of the nominees stormed the place to get first-hand information on the confirmation process. The list also included former Chief Press Secretary to Akande, Special Adviser of Environment, Senior Special Adviser to Aregbesola on Electronic Broadcast, and Commissioner for Special Duties.
Army Panel Secretly Quizzing More Officers over Alleged Coup Plot
by Aluko Olaleye
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has denied rumors of a coup plot and stated that the military is committed to democracy according to international best practices. The Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, stated that the military has constituted a panel to quiz officers and soldiers suspected of being involved in the unholy alliance. Enenche explained that the instruction given by the army chief was a "routine instruction" to guard against misconduct and that warnings are issued with possible investigations following any signs of actions likely to breach the military code of conduct. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari and in complete subordination to civil rule. The contemporary Nigerian military is abreast with the best international practices in governance, which is democracy.
Army Panel Secretly Quizzing More Officers over Alleged Coup Plot
by Aluko Olaleye
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has denied rumors of a coup plot and stated that the military is committed to democracy according to international best practices. The Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, stated that the military has constituted a panel to quiz officers and soldiers suspected of being involved in the unholy alliance. Enenche explained that the instruction given by the army chief was a "routine instruction" to guard against misconduct and that warnings are issued with possible investigations following any signs of actions likely to breach the military code of conduct. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari and in complete subordination to civil rule. The contemporary Nigerian military is abreast with the best international practices in governance, which is democracy.
Army Panel Secretly Quizzing More Officers over Alleged Coup Plot
by Aluko Olaleye
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has denied rumors of a coup plot and stated that the military is committed to democracy according to international best practices. The Director, Defence Information, Maj. Gen. John Enenche, stated that the military has constituted a panel to quiz officers and soldiers suspected of being involved in the unholy alliance. Enenche explained that the instruction given by the army chief was a "routine instruction" to guard against misconduct and that warnings are issued with possible investigations following any signs of actions likely to breach the military code of conduct. He assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain loyal to President Muhammadu Buhari and in complete subordination to civil rule. The contemporary Nigerian military is abreast with the best international practices in governance, which is democracy.
Arrested Judges: Lawyer Sues Buhari, DSS, AGF, Others for N50bn
by Adesomoloju Ade
Lagos-based lawyer Olukoya Ogungbeje has filed a N50bn suit against President Muhammadu Buhari, the Department of State Services (DSS), and its Director-General, Lawal Daura, for allegedly violating the rights of judges whose houses were raided by DSS operatives between October 8 and 9. The suit seeks an order awarding N50bn as "general and exemplary damages," N2m as the cost of the suit, an order compelling the DSS to return the recovered money to the judges, and a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from arresting, inviting, intimidating, or harassing the judges. The DSS had arrested Justices Sylvester Ngwuta and John Okoro of the Supreme Court, Justice Adeniyi Ademola of the Federal High Court, Abuja, and Justice Muazu Pindiga of the Federal High Court, Gombe Division. The seven of them have since been released on self-recognition by the DSS. Ogungbeje's suit is restricted to five of the arrested judges, who are still in active service.
Punch Newspaper, Saturday, September 17, 2016, pg.11
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has announced his intention to run for the presidency in 2019, turning himself into an opposition figure for his own party, the All Progressives Congress. In an interview with the Voice of America in Hausa, Atiku criticized the Buhari-led administration, claiming that he was dumped by the government despite spending his resources on ensuring the President's rise to power in 2015. This came just hours after the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Senator Aisha Alhassan, declared her readiness to support Atiku's bid for the presidency against President Buhari. Alhassan confirmed that she would support Atiku in 2019 because "President Buhari has not told anybody that he would contest the 2019 presidential election." However, political pundits believe Alhassan could not have openly declared her support for Atiku without the backing of other party members. The 2019 presidential election is expected to cause clashes among Buhari's and Atiku's supporters, as they may not have the same level of support.
Punch Newspaper, Saturday, September 16, 2017, pg.14
ASUU attacks EL-Rufai over land,demands gov's ABU certificate withdrawal
by Godwin Isenyo
Members of the Ahmadu Bello University branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities demonstrated against the alleged forcible takeover of the university's property by Kaduna state Governor Mallam Nasir EL-Rufai on Monday.
ASUU dismisses FG'S N52.5bn,says strike likely soon.
by Chukwudi Akasike & Godfrey George
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has suspended its nine months strike due to the non-payment of salaries of its members. The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council intervened and promised to prevail on the Federal Government to implement the N52.5bn Revitalisation Fund and Earned Academic Allowance. The Minister of State for Education has said there is no justification for a strike, and Mercy Chepaka has appealed to the government to not hire lecturers from the moon.
The Federal Government said the platform presented by the ASUU as its preferred alternative to the integrated perssonnel and payroll information system know as UTAS has failed.
The joint committee of ASUU, NUC and NITDA is set to submit the report of the integrity test on the University Transparency Accountability Solution (UTAS) on Tuesday. ASUU has demanded the deployment of the UTAS payment platform instead of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS).
Avanti Communications has been named the market-leading high-throughput satellite capacity partner in sub-Saharan Africa for the second year running.
A statement said the results from the 20th edition of the NSR Satellite Capacity Supply and Demand Analysis reported that Avanti’s market share was now more than two times its nearest competitor.
“NSR’s annual report is one of the satellite industry’s most trusted and comprehensive sources for satellite capacity analysis, offering insight into key market developments and dynamics,†it stated.Â
According to the statement, Avanti had made a significant commitment to Africa. The company has ambitions to accelerate growth across the region through local partnerships and the rollout of connectivity solutions; connecting rural communities and improving network resiliency for critical communications infrastructure is central to this strategy.
It said till date, Avanti had connected more than 1,000 villages and schools across Africa, providing services in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Ghana, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and South Sudan.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 02, 2023, pg.11
Bandits displaced 600 in seven Niger communities – Govt
by Otuchikere Chika
Over 600 residents of Shiroro Local Government Area in Niger State have been displaced by a banditry attack shortly after the Sallah celebration. The attack occurred in four communities, including Lanta, Tunga, Dnakau, and Juweedna, and resulted in the burning of houses and rustling of cattle. The state Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management reported no reported kidnappings or deaths. The residents have criticized the persistent attacks, claiming that there was no presence of security agents in the local government, allowing bandits to operate without resistance. A tailor in Minna expressed his sadness at the situation and the lack of action taken by the government to end the reign of terror.
Bandits kidnap 23 Zamfara women, 10 construction workers
by Maiharaji Altine
Twenty-three women have been kidnapped by bandits in the Damaga district of the Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The women, our correspondent was told, riding on motorcycles, swooped on them, whisking away 23. An indigene of the area, Mohammed Sani, who spoke to our correspondent about the incident,Â
“We have already informed the police about this issue and we are waiting to hear from the bandits the amount of money they will ask us to pay (as ransom).â€Â
The villager lamented that the kidnap was one too many, noting that villagers continued to pay ransom to bandits now and then.
Meanwhile, bandits also kidnapped 10 officials of Triacta Construction Company in Talata-Mafara, the hometown of former governor Abdulaziz Yari.
An indigene of the town, Ismail Shehu, said the weapon-wielding hoodlums fired many shots in the air before they finally forced themselves into the company and kidnapped 10 of the construction workers.
Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, the former Governor of Delta State, has reconciled with Prof. Patrick Utomi after months of verbal attacks over the state's financial state. The reconciliation was brokered by Bishop Matthew Kukah, who accused Utomi of excessive borrowing and alleged diversion of funds. Uduaghan urged Utomi to contest the post of a councillor in his ward instead of aiming to be the next governor. The former governor's spokesman, Mr. Areh Sunday, announced their reconciliation on Facebook.
Bookstores, libraries face hard times, poor patronage as students ,others embraces e-books
by Janet Ogundepo
Emeka Okochie, a bookseller and publisher, is struggling to make sales due to the emergence of electronic books and the current state of the economy. Donatus Nwaogu, the manager of Donatus Books, said devaluation of the naira and the increase in the price of commodities had affected the purchasing power of paper book lovers. Isaiah Adeogun, a teacher and purchasing manager at Bible Wonderland, said the invention of e-books had not affected the production and sale of paper books, but that Nigerians had a slow adoption of technological advancements. Ben Chucks lamented that the pandemic had drastically affected sales, except for those who must buy books for their children.
Buhari Now Operating as Part-Time President- Fayose
by Ramson Oladimeji
The Governor of Ekiti, Ayodele Fayose, has stated that President Muhammadu Buhari has become a part-time and ceremonial President, only seen during the Friday Jumat service at the Presidential Villa. Fayose believes that Nigerians should be properly informed about the well-being of their President and that the Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, should constitutionally act as the President. He accused close allies of deliberately shielding Buhari and preventing him from attending to his health to continue running the government on the basis of "Mr President has directed" even when the President did not direct anything. Fayose insisted that Nigerians must hear the voice of their President and see him physically, not through surrogates or the cabal operating behind the scenes. He said that it is only when the President is seen and heard physically that Nigerians will believe that they are not being ruled by a part-time and ceremonial President, whose powers are being exercised on his behalf by some cabal.
Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Director of Missions, Pastor Caxton Fasuyi, has emphasized the importance of empowering youths with entrepreneurial skills to reduce poverty and hunger in Nigeria. He announced the admission of 100 youths to the Joseph Ayo Babalola University's entrepreneurial skills acquisition programme, sponsored by the CAC. The program is part of a partnership between the church and the Bank of Industry, sponsoring youths from six geo-political zones. The church will provide start-up packages worth millions of naira to those who excel. The program is expected to continue after the first batch, aiming to eradicate poverty in the church.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, November 22, 2016, pg.33
CAC registration: Police to go after illegal PoS operators 9th May 2024
by Ogundeji Josephine & Aina Damilola
The Federal Government in Nigeria has announced a mandatory registration of Point-of-Sales operators to reduce kidnapping and assist security agencies in arresting ransom payments. The registration process aligns with legal requirements and Central Bank of Nigeria directives, aiming to safeguard businesses and strengthen the economy. The deadline for registration is 60 days and ends on July 7th. The benefits of registration include access to loans, legality, and compliance with regulatory requirements. However, PoS agents have criticized the move, arguing it would place more burden on operators, especially in rural areas.
Candidates can except WASSCE result in 45 days-WAEC
by Grace Edema
The west African Examination council has said the use of information and communication Technology has reduced the period for the processing of result of the west African senior school certificate Examination for candidates from 84 days to 45 days.
In order to encourage colleges to advance digitalization over the next two years, the Central Bank of Nigeria has publicly announced that it is prepared to establish a N100 million award programme. This was stated by Mr. Adebisi Shonubi, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, at the opening summit of the CIO Club Africa, with the topic "The Role of Digitalization in Transforming the Economy."
In order to encourage colleges to advance digitalization over the next two years, the Central Bank of Nigeria has publicly announced that it is prepared to establish a N100 million award programme. This was stated by Mr. Adebisi Shonubi, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, at the opening summit of the CIO Club Africa, with the topic "The Role of Digitalization in Transforming the Economy."
CBN will spend $3bn loan to stabilise economy - NEC
by Stephen Angbulu
The National Economic Council has confirmed that a $3bn emergency loan-for-crude oil secured in August will be used to stabilize the naira, which has been fluctuating in the Investors & Exporters' window and worsened in the parallel market. The loan will enable the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to settle taxes and royalties in advance and provide the Federal Government with dollar liquidity.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 29, 2023, pg.27
Chicago academic record: Atiku plans fresh suit against Tinubu
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & Abdulrahman Zakariyau
Atiku Abubakar's legal team plans to challenge President Bola Tinubu's plea for Chicago State University not to release privileged documents from his academic records. The legal team had 48 hours to respond in the US court. Tinubu's lawyers argue that his academic records are not useful in Nigerian courts and that Atiku's request is intrusive, allowing him to conduct a fishing expedition into his private, confidential, and protected educational records.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.2
Rotary Club of Ogudu GRA has distributed baby cots with net covers, clothes, and baby scales to some pregnant women and the Ogudu Primary Health Centre, Lagos State.
President of the club, Mr Akeem Shonde, said the club distributed the maternal and child kits to pregnant women and the hospital to commemorate the Rotary Month of maternal and child health.
 Shonde also said the club gave out the items to help reduce the burden of malaria among babies as well as cushion the harsh economic effects of getting those items on the mothers.
“The nets will prevent the babies from having malaria. Looking at the economic situation in the country, we decided to help the pregnant women remove that burden of getting those items because it is very important for them to prevent their babies from having malaria,†he said.Â
Representative of the health centre, Dr Kehinde Oguntoyinbo, commended the Rotary club for their continuous support for the hospital, saying most of the pregnant women were not financially buoyant to get the mother and baby care items.
She said “The club has helped the women to remove the burden of buying baby beds, nets and clothes from them.
One of the pregnant women, Victoria Inyang, thanked the club for the mother and baby care packs.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 02, 2023, pg.28
Coastal highway probe: Reps to summon Edun, Umahi, AGF
by Yakubu Dirisu, Aina Damilola & Adaji Daniel
The House of Representatives has resolved to probe the ongoing N15tn Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which has attracted both praise and condemnation since its approval in February. The 10-lane coastal road was designed to connect Lagos to Cross River, passing through various states before culminating in Calabar. The project gained traction under the administrations of Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari but could not commence. The Ministry of Works defended the project, stating it followed due process and that House of Representatives members had pledged support for the project. The Federal Executive Council has approved and released N1.06tn for the contractor for the pilot phase of the construction. The highway was conceived as an Engineering, Procurement and Construction plus Financing project, with part-funding by the Federal Government between 15 to 30%. The approval process went through the Bureau of Public Procurement after consideration by the Federal Executive Council.
Condemn Killing by Fulani Herdsmen, Fani-Kayode tells Buhari
by Eniola Toluwani
Nigerian Director of Publicity, Femi Fani-Kayode, has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to condemn the killings of Fulani herdsmen. Fani-Kayode expressed dissatisfaction with the Buhari administration and urged him to condemn the heinous activities of his kinsmen. He warned that if the government continued to persecute its perceived enemies, a national rebellion was inevitable. Fani-Kayode urged the President to stop making sensational allegations and lies to silence the opposition. He also criticized a comment by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, who suggested holding vandals responsible for the country's lack of electricity. Fani-Kayode believes in the force of logic and believes that when a people are pushed against a wall, things can change quickly.
Consumers fault Discos as meter price hits N147,000
by Dare Olawin
Electricity consumers in Nigeria have been protesting against the hike in prepaid meters prices announced by power distribution companies. The Electricity Consumers Protection and Advocacy Centre has accused the electricity sector of being structured to inflict hardships on the masses. After months of shutting down their meter application portals, some Discos have released revised prices of the product. The hiked prices follow the deregulation of meter sales by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, giving room for vendors and buyers to sell meters at prices convenient to both sides. A single-phase meter rose from N88,000 to an average of N147,000, depending on the vendor. The new meter prices took effect from May 23, and customers would have their meter installed within 10 working days after payment had been made. The prices were as supplied by IBEDC meter vendor, Mojec Asset Management Company Limited. The Chief Executive Officer of Femadec Group, Fola Akinola, recently said that power distribution companies shut down their meter application portals because manufacturers and DisCos were regularising the prices of meters to reflect current economic realities. The NERC had released an order on the deregulation of meter prices under the MAP scheme, which stipulated that consumers should get energy credit as a refund for meters paid for. The Executive Director of the Electricity Consumers Protection and Advocacy Centre, Princewill Okorie, wondered why the Discos would be allowed to hike meter prices at a time when consumers are yet to come to terms with the Band A tariff hike. He claimed that the Discos, aided by NERC, have been extorting Nigerians by failing to abide by the MAP policy, which stipulates that consumers should get energy credit as a refund for meters paid for.
Corruption: INEC Awaits EFCC's Reports on Officers
by Olusola Fabiyi
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is awaiting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's report on officers accused of corruption before making a decision. The commission is currently investigating over 100 officers for alleged bribery during the last general election. Some resident Electoral Commissioners of INEC were alleged to have been bribed by People's Democratic Party officials. The EFCC has arrested Oluchi Brown, an administrative secretary in Delta State, and Edem Effanga, a retired INEC official. The commission is not going to cover up any of its workers, and suspects will not be disciplined until the EFCC submits its reports. The law will be used to handle the EFCC's report when it is out.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, October 06, 2016, pg.11
Cost of living protest: Police warn against violence as Labour gives fresh conditions
by Dayo Oyewo, Gift Habib, Animasahun Salman & Olaide Oyelude
The police authorities have said they would not condone any form of violence during the planned two-day demonstration declared by organised Labour in protest against the hardships and high cost of living in the country.The police handed down the Riot Act on Sunday as the Nigeria Labour Congress gave fresh conditions ahead of the minimum wage negotiation commencing on Monday (today.)The police warning is coming against the backdrop of the alarm by the African Development Bank that rising prices of fuel and other commodities could lead to social unrest in Nigeria, Ethiopia, Angola, and Kenya.The AfDB sounded the warning in its macroeconomic performance and outlook for 2024 in which it projected Africa’s economy to grow higher than the 3.2 percent recorded in 2023. “I am a teacher in one of the private schools; I have gotten nothing in the form of palliative from the government. We have been trusting in the Lord and we thank God for his grace has been sufficient for us,†she said. Mr Samuel Tijani, a resident of Ilisan Remo, did not benefit from the palliatives just as he appealed to the government to lessen the pains of the fuel subsidy removal. Tijani said, “I have received nothing in the name of palliatives from anyone since the crisis of this fuel subsidy removal began. I heard that the state government is planning to distribute another set of food palliatives soon. I sincerely hope that the government will ensure that it goes around this time.â€
Counterterrorism: Tinubu warns armed forces against disunity, hoarding information
by Stephen Angbulu
Nigeria's President, Bola Tinubu, has warned security agencies against disharmony and intelligence hoarding, stating that these will hinder the country's counterterrorism efforts. He emphasized the importance of sharing information and intelligence to counter terrorism, stating that it cannot be hoarded. The warning comes after Tinubu stated that he would not tolerate security agencies working at cross-purposes. He also acknowledged that security should be a priority for economic revival, prosperity, and development. The President emphasized that intelligence efforts to counter terrorism must be backed by knowledge and intelligence. The National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno, thanked the President for his first engagement outside the Villa, expressing his commitment to ensuring the security misfortunes of Nigeria and the sub-region are overcome within the shortest possible time.
Crossriver doctors begin strike over colleagues' abduction.
by Newsmen
Meedical doctors in cross river, on sunday began an indfinite strike in solidarity with one of their colleagues abducted on Thursday from her residence in calabar. The doctors announcedv the strike in a communique issued after their emergency general meeting on sunday in calabar .The communique issued signed by the chairman of the Nigerian medical Association, crossRiver branch ,Dr
Dangote Industries Limited's Vice President of Oil and Gas, Devakumar Edwin, has accused International Oil Companies (IOCs) in Nigeria of planning to frustrate the survival of the new Dangote Oil Refinery and Petrochemicals. Edwin claims that IOCs are forcing the refinery to import crude from countries like the US at high costs, and that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority is granting licenses to marketers to import dirty refined products. He also accused the Nigerian government of granting licenses to marketers to import dirty refined products, despite Dangote producing and importing diesel.Nigeria's Dangote refinery has been granted import licenses for high-sulphur diesel, despite the country having sufficient petroleum refining capacity locally. This comes after the US, EU, and UK imposed a price cap scheme on Russian petroleum products in February 2023. European countries, including Belgium and the Netherlands, have imposed bans on such fuel exports to West Africa. The refinery's decision to indiscriminately import dirty diesel and aviation fuel has allowed it to expand into foreign markets.
Customs seized N854m vehicles, others in January – NCSÂÂÂ
by Anozie Egole
Nigeria's Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 11 imported used vehicles and other contraband worth N854 million in January. The command recorded a total of 60 seizures, including different contraband. Smuggling is a crime involving false declaration, concealment of goods, unapproved routes, forging customs documents, willful underpayment of duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. In 2023, FOU Zone A made 1,119 different seizures, 136 arrests, and 16 convictions, for a total duty-paid value of N10bn. In the first month of this year, 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Other items seized included 3,653 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 23,025 litres of petroleum motor spirit, 241 bales of used clothes, and 1,490 kg of Indian hemp. The Customs Area Controller (CAC) called for more collaboration and partnership with stakeholders in the area of information sharing and intelligence to fight smuggling.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.11
Customs seized N854m vehicles, others in January – NCSÂÂÂ
by Anozie Egole
Nigeria's Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 11 imported used vehicles and other contraband worth N854 million in January. The command recorded a total of 60 seizures, including different contraband. Smuggling is a crime involving false declaration, concealment of goods, unapproved routes, forging customs documents, willful underpayment of duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. In 2023, FOU Zone A made 1,119 different seizures, 136 arrests, and 16 convictions, for a total duty-paid value of N10bn. In the first month of this year, 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Other items seized included 3,653 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 23,025 litres of petroleum motor spirit, 241 bales of used clothes, and 1,490 kg of Indian hemp. The Customs Area Controller (CAC) called for more collaboration and partnership with stakeholders in the area of information sharing and intelligence to fight smuggling.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.11
Customs seized N854m vehicles, others in January – NCSÂÂÂ
by Anozie Egole
Nigeria's Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Ikeja, intercepted 11 imported used vehicles and other contraband worth N854 million in January. The command recorded a total of 60 seizures, including different contraband. Smuggling is a crime involving false declaration, concealment of goods, unapproved routes, forging customs documents, willful underpayment of duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. In 2023, FOU Zone A made 1,119 different seizures, 136 arrests, and 16 convictions, for a total duty-paid value of N10bn. In the first month of this year, 10 suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures. Other items seized included 3,653 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 23,025 litres of petroleum motor spirit, 241 bales of used clothes, and 1,490 kg of Indian hemp. The Customs Area Controller (CAC) called for more collaboration and partnership with stakeholders in the area of information sharing and intelligence to fight smuggling.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.11
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has accused Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State of double registration in the ongoing voter registration process. Bello registered twice and in an undesignated area, violating the law. The commission has commenced disciplinary action against INEC staff involved in the illegal registration. The commission cannot commence legal action against Bello due to the immunity clause for governors in the constitution. Bello's Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on New Media, Gbenga Olorunponmi, have not responded to attempts to speak with him. The commission has designated a center for voter registration in all 774 local government areas.
D’Tigress demolish Rwanda 79-48, reach AfroBasket final
by Ebenezer Bajela
Champions D’Tigress outclassed hosts Rwanda 79-48 in the semi-finals of the ongoing 2023 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket in Kigali, Rwanda to book a place in the final, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The win on Thursday means D’Tigress have now extended their unbeaten run to 23 games and are on the verge of winning a fourth consecutive AfroBasket title.
The last time Nigeria lost a game in the Women’s Afrobasket was in 2015 against Cameroon in the semi-finals.
New head coach, Rena Wakama, maintained the starting five that managed to beat Mozambique 59-52 in the quarter-finals to set up a last-four showdown with the hosts — whom they had defeated in their previous two meetings 2009 and 2011 — on Thursday.Â
Amy Okonkwo, Palla Kunaiyi-Akpanah, Elizabeth Balogun, Sarah Ogoke and Blessing Ejiofor were ruthless from the tip-off, but the hosts scored the first points, before Okonkwo put Nigeria in front.
D’Tigress blew through the Rwandans and established a 22-6 lead in the first quarter.Â
It was a bright start for the Rwandans in the third quarter, as they outscored D’Tigress to get themselves back into the game, as the quarter ended 58-35.
In the final quarter, Nigeria restored control and secured an outstanding 31-point victory to progress to the competition’s final.
Okonkwo led the Nigerians with 23 points, followed by Oluwayemisi Taiwo, who netted 12 points.
Nigeria now await the winners of the other semi-final game between Mali and Senegal on Friday (today) as they hope to win the championship for the fourth time in a row on Saturday, a feat that only the Senegalese boast of in African basketball.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has advised Sub-Saharan African countries to eliminate tax exemptions and increase domestic revenue to reduce fiscal deficits, rather than reducing fiscal expenditure. The IMF also suggested that increasing women's participation in the labor force could boost GDP by about 8% in the coming years, despite the weakest medium-term growth outlook in over 30 years.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.20
Democracy Day: Buhari Administration has done Well- Says Osinbajo
by Adetayo Olalekan
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.
Democracy Day: Buhari Administration has done Well- Says Osinbajo
by Adetayo Olalekan
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.
Democracy Day: Buhari Administration has done Well- Says Osinbajo
by Adetayo Olalekan
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.
Democracy Day: Buhari Administration has done Well- Says Osinbajo
by Adetayo Olalekan
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.
Democracy Day: Buhari Administration has done Well- Says Osinbajo
by Adetayo Olalekan
Acting President Yemi Osinbajo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's two-year administration, stating that positive results are evident in areas such as security, corruption, and the economy. Although the economy remains a challenge, the Federal Government has introduced measures to revamp it. Osinbajo acknowledged that the fight against corruption appears slow due to the slow nature of the nation's justice system, but all hands are on the deck to ensure that all stolen funds are recovered and culprits brought to justice. On security, the government has made significant achievements in the North East, where the Boko Haram sect challenged the nation's sovereignty. The government has reorganized and equipped its Armed Forces and revitalized the regional Multinational Joint Task Force. In the Niger Delta, the government is engaging with local communities to understand their grievances and create solutions. The government is working with state governments to design effective strategies and interventions to bring the menace to an end.
The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has charged the Redeemer’s College of Technology and Management, Ogun State, to develop a relevant academic curriculum to enable graduands to be contributors to national development in the areas of entrepreneurship and scientific inventions. The Chairman, Governing Council, RECTEM, Dr Johnson Odesola, said the convocation provided ample opportunity for assessment of the performance of an institution and to raise the bar for higher academic and entrepreneurial pursuits. The Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education, Kaduna, Prof. Idris Bugaji noted that Technical and Vocational Education and Training remained the driving force for sustainable development. Mama Dada, a middle-aged woman, set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan from a microfinance bank.
Digital identityll unlock opportunities for open finance
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
Aguele stated that "Open Finance, backed by a strong digital identity infrastructure, was key to bridging the gap between identification and financial inclusion to achieve result at scale for the over 500 million people living in Africa without a recognised form of ID" during the Decentralised Finance (DeFi) session of the 5th edition of the Africa Tech summit held in Nairobi, Kenya.
A man identified as Mohammed Faworaja has met his untimely death in Ilorin, Kwara State capital while running away from a dog.
PUNCH Metro gathered on Thursday that the incident occurred around Asa Dam, the Warah-Osin area in the Ilorin West Local Government Area of the state.Â
A source who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “The dog, a German shepherd, got loose and chased the deceased who hit his chest on an electric pole. He died of internal bleeding and the canned fish (Sardine) which he went to buy dropped and was seen beside the pole at the scene of the incident.
“He was a very friendly man and cannot be more than 33 years of age. He was the breadwinner of the family. The police are involved in the matter.
The board of the Lagos State Football Association on Tuesday suspended its chairman, , for gross misconduct by a simple majority of five to four.
At the meeting held at the LSFA office on Ogunlana Drive, Surulere, Lagos, Oki was alleged to have “committed, among other things, offences which violates against the rules and regulations of the Nigeria Football Federation.â€
The embattled FA boss was accused of “not attending the NFF Congress with no excuse and without the knowledge of the LSFA Board, changing of the association logo without approval of the board and the congress, denying the Nigerian Professional League A1 Camera delegates access to test-run the A1 camera prior to the commencement of the league, and total disregard to NFF instructions on NPFL rules and regulations regarding branding and streaming of matches by our affiliate (Sporting Lagos FC).â€
Oki was also alleged to have “released the 2023/24 NNL SEASON – MATCH DAY LOGISTiCS to NNL clubs without the knowledge of the board, delayed and stopped several youth tournaments and recreational football, threatening teams to move out of Lagos and initiating independence of LSFA outside of the authority of the NFF.â€Â
The board also said he was at loggerheads with the Lagos State Sports Commission on the use of facilities and accused him of “spoiling a hitherto amiable relationship.â€
After his suspension, Oki was also alleged to have slapped his vice chairman Olawale Gafar. A video, which went viral online on Tuesday, showed Gafaar lamenting, with Oki seated close to him
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Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 18, 2023, pg.30
Officers of the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, on Thursday night, quelled a violent protest that erupted following the alleged killing of a fashion designer by an operative of the Department of State Services who shot intermittently and injured several people. One of our correspondents gathered that a customer brought the DSS official to the victim’s shop for allegedly failing to deliver some clothes on an agreed date. A trader in the market, who did not want her name in print for fear of being victimised, said some of the fashion designer’s colleagues, who learnt about the incident, intervened but their interference did not go down well with the DSS operative. She noted that the operative was arrested and detained by the police after he allegedly shot and killed the fashion designer. Responding to the development in a statement, the spokesperson for the FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh said, In an incident at Garki International Market on September 7, 2023, an altercation arose between market occupants and certain individuals, including a DSS personnel and a tailor named Muhammad Habibu. The Garki Divisional Police station mobilised officers in response to a received distress call reporting the invasion of the market by these individuals, who fired shots at a tailor known as Mubarak Mubarak. However, in a statement, the spokesperson for the DSS, Peter Afunanya, said the secret police was investigating the matter.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 08, 2023, pg.27
Educationist asks stakeholders to train students as job providers.
by Grace Edema
Oak Business School (Monotechnic) owner Dr Lance Elakama has appealed to stakeholders in the education sector to train learners to become employers of labour and not job seekers. The school has secured accreditation in five courses, including Marketing, Accountancy, Business Administration, Banking and Finance as well as Computer Science. The school is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratory, ICT, e-library, air-conditioned lecture rooms with highly qualified lecturers and hostel facilities. The school will commence academic activities on January 17 at its temporary campus in Ogba, Lagos. Mama Dada, a middle-aged woman, set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan of N70,000 she reportedly took from a microfinance bank, LAPOs.
Former Governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have disagreed over the existence and ownership of 48 houses allegedly traced to the ex-governor. Sylva claimed he owned only three houses in Abuja, while the EFCC spokesman, Wilson Uwujaren, insisted that the ex-governor owned the 48 houses, allegedly returned to him by a court's order. The commission has begun fresh moves to challenge the return of the houses to Sylva before the Court of Appeal. The PUNCH reported that the EFCC had traced and sealed off 48 properties allegedly owned by Sylva. The PUNCH had arraigned the ex-governor for an alleged N19bn fraud and slammed 50 charges against him. Three Federal High Courts had struck out the case. Sylva denied ownership of the houses and threatened legal action against the anti-graft commission over the report.
Punch Newspaper, Sunday, September 04, 2016, pg.10
Ekiti Lawmakers flee to Ibadan, Say Our Lives Unsafe
by Atoyebi Olufemi & Kamarudeen Ogundele
Nine lawmakers of the Ekiti House of Assembly have fled to Ibadan, Oyo State, claiming their lives were unsafe. They alleged that a batch of detectives from the Force Criminal Investigation Department arrived in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday to arrest them, led by a Chief Superintendent of Police, Mohammed Abubakar. The lawmakers also alleged that some leaders of the All Progressives Congress were seen helping policemen identify their homes, stressing that they fled Ekiti because their lives were being threatened.The Assembly's Committee Chairman on Information, Youths, and Sports, Gboyega Aribisogan, said it was necessary to come to Ibadan to alert the public to the new clandestine plot by the APC-led Federal Government to cripple the government of Ekiti State. The Assembly has revealed that the three legislators declared missing by the state government actually ran into hiding to evade arrest by the officials of the Department of State Services.The lawmakers had gone underground since March 4, when a member of the legislature, Afolabi Akanni, was arrested and detained for 18 days by the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged sundry allegations. The Assembly has directed the state lawmakers to shun any invitation from the DSS due to an alleged plot to arrest and detain them.
England fires Falcons warning with China demolition
by Abiodun Adewale
European champions England thrashed China 6-1 in their last group game on Tuesday in Adelaide to send a ruthless warning to Nigeria ahead of their round of 16 meeting slated for next Monday in Brisbane at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
England have quietly gone about their business in the group stage, winning their first two games against Denmark and Haiti 1-0, but showed absolute class to sweep aside the Chinese and finish their group campaign with a 100 per cent record.
The Lionesses have now set up a round of 16 clash against Nigeria, who finished second in Group B, no thanks to their goalless draw against Ireland on Monday. The Falcons drew 0-0 with Canada in their first game and stunned co-hosts Australia 3-2 in their second game but missed the chance to top the group and avoid the potentially difficult clash against England.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 02, 2023, pg.30
Enugu gov meets Tinubu over Kanu, restates sit-at-home ban
by Stephen Angbulu
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has initiated talks with President Bola Tinubu on the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, who has been in detention since 2021 following his re-arrest in Kenya. After a private meeting with Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa, talked about the release of Nnamdi Kanu. And we basically identified with that. We’ve banned sit-at-home on Mondays in Enugu. Need to, †he emphasised. In terms of growing our economy from the current levels to $30bn. Which we believe partnering with the Federal Government,.
The bullish trading experienced in recent times on the Nigerian Exchange Limited slowed this past week, recording a gain of N8bn for investors.
With market capitalisation ending at N35.994tn previous Friday, trading activities kicked off on a positive note on the NGX, appreciating to N35.539tn on Monday.
It went higher to N35.932tn on Tuesday, but suffered a continuous decline in the next three trading sessions, following the announcement of an increase in the Monetary Policy Rate to 18.50 per cent, to end at N35.402 on Friday.
The NGX All-Share Index and Market capitalisation appreciated slightly by 0.02 per cent.
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Similarly, all other indices finished higher except for NGX Main Board, NGX CG, NGX Banking, NGX Insurance, NGX AFR. Bank Value, NGX AFR. Div. Yield, NGX MERI Value, NGX Consumer Goods and NGX Industrial Goods Indices which depreciated by 0.16 per cent, 0.90 per cent 2.21 per cent, 1.60 per cent, 2.20 per cent, 1.78 per cent, 0.65 per cent, 2.36 per cent and 0.31 per cent respectively, while the NGX ASeM and NGX Sovereign Bond Indices closed flat.
A total turnover of 2.854 billion shares worth N37.645bn in 41,547 deals was traded last week by investors on the floor of the NGX, in contrast to a total of 4.182 billion shares valued at N99.048bn that exchanged hands in previous week in 41,446 deals. The Financial Services Industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 1.936 billion shares valued at N27.704bn traded in 20,839 deals; contributing 67.84 per cent and 73.59 per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has announced the suspension of airport taxi services at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The agency said this move was a result of unresolved factional disputes among the car hire operators, which had been affecting airport car hire service operations.
A statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Abdullahi Yakubu-Funtua, said, “The FAAN wishes to inform the general public that the airport car hire service at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja has been suspended with immediate effect.
“This is as a result of the unresolved factional dispute among the car hire operators which has been affecting airport car hire service operations.†In the statement, FAAN advised visitors to the airport to opt for secured alternative means of transportation or E-hailing services.
The statement read, “Consequent upon this suspension, FAAN management advises the general public and all airport users, particularly our esteemed passengers to use secured alternative means of transportation or e-hailing services in and out of the airport.
Father of siblings killed by collapsed hotel fence demands justice
by Gbenga oloniniran
A 45-year-old furniture maker, Ahmed Atolagbe, whose two sons were killed on July 22, 2023, when a portion of the fence of a hotel collapsed on their house in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State, is demanding justice for the deceased.
The Kwara State-born grieving father told PUNCH Metro on Thursday that tragedy struck when the fence of a hotel collapsed on his three-room apartment located on Alao Street, Olainukan Bus Stop, Isawo in Ikorodu during a downpour.
The father of six said his two sons, seven-year-old Abdulwahab and nine-year-old Roqeeb, who were sleeping around the dining section of his sitting room at the time of the collapse died on the spot.
He added that his first son was also injured while his wife, Omotola, lost consciousness following the impact of the tragedy that befell the family.Â
He said, “I was already at my furniture workshop in Irawo when I received a distress call that I should return home to attend to a pressing issue.
“By the time I got home, I realised that the fence of a hotel beside my house had collapsed following the impact of the erosion coming from the hotel.
“The fence fell on my house, killing two of my sons. My eldest son was also injured. The incident was too much for my wife. She fainted and was rushed to the hospital.â€
In Ikun-Ekiti, the governor of the state of Ekiti, Mr. Kayode Fayemi, opened a centre for tech and business skills. JM Tech Centre is a non-profit technology centre that was established to provide the people of Ekiti, Nigeria, and Africa with the necessary entrepreneurship and 21st-century technology skills to become nation-builders.
Fayose Asks FG to increase Corps Members Allowance
by Kamarudeen Ogundele
Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has called on the Federal Government to increase the monthly allowance of National Youth Service Corps members due to the dwindling purchasing power of the naira. Fayose made the call during the swearing-in and official opening ceremony for the 2017 Batch 'A' Stream I of the NYSC at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Ise/Orun/Emure Ekiti. He stressed that the N19,800 monthly allowance was no longer sufficient for the survival of corps members and called for an urgent review of the allowance. The governor reiterated his commitment to the well-being of corps members serving in the state and promised to give further assistance to the NYSC. He lamented the monumental increase in the population of graduates annually without corresponding development in the facilities, leading to huge infrastructural decay in the NYSC camps nationwide. Fayose also assured the state government that the state government would continue to acknowledge and reward deserving youths with state honours award, automatic employment, and cash gifts. He encouraged corps members to go into farming, fishery, snail farming, and tap into the agriculturally-friendly environment of the state.
Federal Government arraings Emefiele, allies thurday.
by Adelani Adepegba, Solomon Odeniyi & Onozure Dania
The Fedes for N6.9bn procurement fraud at the federal capital Terriotory high court, maitama, Abuja. Emefile will be arraignment and mention. Emefiele will be arraigned along a female CBN emral Government will on thursday arraign the suspended central bank of Nigeria governor Godwin Emefile and his asocsiateployee, sa'adatu yaro and her company , April 1616 investment limited on 20 charges of procurement fraud, consipracy and conferring corrupt advantages on his associates. Emefiele, who had been in detention since he was accused of conferring corrupt advantages on yaro a director in april 1616 investment ltd. Emefiele s'associate the ex-CBN governor was said to have conspired with yaro to confer corrupt advantages on the CBN staffer by awarding to her a contract for the supply of two toyora hilux shell specification vehichles.
FG Approves Fund to Rebuild UNIJOS Library Complex
by Friday Olokor
The Federal Government has approved a special intervention fund to rebuild the burnt library complex of the University of Jos, Plateau State. All lost academic materials in the complex, which hosts two faculties, four departments, and the Information and Communication Technology facility, will be restored. The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Dr. Abdullahi Baffa, stated that the loss caused by the fire incident is something that cannot be quantified because of the loss of some academic materials that no amount of money can replace. The library is the soul of any institution, and the news of the fire incident was received with sadness, and that is why I am leading the team from TETfund myself to see the extent of the damage
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, November 22, 2016, pg.33
The Federal Government has warned states and local governments to avoid collecting royalties and taxes from licensed miners operating in their domains. Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake stated that miners and operators owe the Federal Government more than N2tn and called on them to pay the debt. Alake stressed that operators must monthly pay royalties and taxes to the Federal Government, stating that they are the exclusive preserve of the Federal Government. The mining sector under the Tinubu administration is given top priority.
FG blames opposition for food crisis, uncovers 32 smuggling routes
by Stephen Angbulu, Damilola Aina & Adebayo-Folorunso Francis
The Nigerian Federal Government has blamed opposition elements for the food crisis, revealing 32 smuggling routes used to take food items out of the country. The government described the economic challenges as the work of "forces that are hell-bent on…plunging this country into a state of anarchy." President Bola Tinubu defended the country's recovery path, citing the recent interception of 45 trucks of maize bound for a neighboring country and urging Nigerians to unite against undermining forces.Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has hinted at plans to create millions of jobs by unlocking the value of the country's vast public assets, aiming to optimize and double the Gross Domestic Product. The Federal Government aims to raise at least $10bn to increase foreign exchange liquidity, stabilize the naira, and unlock revenue potential. The newly restructured Ministry of Finance Incorporated will take the center stage, focusing on transparency and accountability. The improved returns will be directed towards funding for education, healthcare, housing, power, roads, and other areas vital to lifting millions out of poverty and stimulating sustainable economic development.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, pg.2
The Federal Government is in talks with the World Bank to obtain over $1bn loans to address the challenges faced by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and their host communities, as well as bolster rural access and agricultural marketing in Nigeria. The IDP loan is estimated at $500m, while the rural access and agricultural marketing project loan is estimated at $550m. The World Bank documents indicate that some of the loans addressed by the global bank have been initiated under the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. The IDP initiative aims to improve access to resilient and inclusive basic services and economic opportunities for IDPs and their host communities in displacement-affected local government areas in the northern part of Nigeria. The Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning will act as the borrower for Nigeria, while the National Commission for Refugee Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons and the North East Development Commission are the implementing agencies.
The $2bn domestic FGN US dollar bond opening in Nigeria is expected to have a positive impact on the economy. The first series of $500m was announced at a hybrid roadshow in Lagos, attended by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of Economy, Wale Edun, and Director General of the Debt Management Office, Ms. Patience Oniha. The bond offering is targeted at pension funds, banks, Nigerians living in the country, foreigners living in the country, and Nigerians living in the diaspora. United Capital is the lead issuing house for the offering. Analysts predict that the offering will boost external reserves to help stabilize the Nigerian currency. The bond issuance holds promise to investors and the economy in several ways, such as providing an alternative, cheaper source to meet the government's financing needs and strengthening the naira. However, the tenor of five years seems ambitious, and a two-year, short-term tenor would have been better and less costly.
FG may raise $17bn from oil assests sale - JP Morgan
by Temitayo Jaiyeola & Sami Olatunji
The Federal Government is expected to make up to $17bn if it sells down its stake in most joint-ventures oil and assets, JP Morgan has stated. The United States bank’s projection came against the backdrop of the government’s plan to boost foreign exchange earnings and external reserves in order to ease forex pressure. The US bank stated this in a report titled, ‘Nigeria: Reform pause rather than fatigue (CBN’s financial accounts open a can of worms).’ According to JP Morgan, the low net forex reserves mean a continued forex market pressure, adding however that the CBN can still source forex at commercial and semi-commercial rates. The highly profitable nature of the currency swap arrangements between the CBN and domestic commercial banks is expected to continue for some time, it said. Commenting on the government assets which can provide succor in the medium term, it stated, “For example, the President’s policy advisory council has recommended the government sell down its stake in the most joint-venture oil and gas assets, a proposal that is estimated to bring in up to $17bn.â€Â The US bank further said the recently announced $3bn loan to the NNPC could help partly improve FX liquidity conditions in the market, with the oil company selling the dollars to the CBN and remitting the naira proceeds to the government as upfront payments for oil revenues and taxes. However, the large external financing needs of the private sector will sustain forex pressures, the bank warned.
FG Moves to Reopen N100bn Fraud Case against Odili
by Akinkuotu Eniola
Nigeria's Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay, has criticized Justice Ibrahim Buba for granting a perpetual injunction to former Governor of Rivers State, Chief Peter Odili, which has halted his prosecution. Buba's order has prevented the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and other government anti-corruption agencies from prosecuting or arresting Odili, who was accused of embezzling N100bn of Rivers State money during his eight-year tenure. Sagay argued that the current injunction is unconstitutional and unconstitutional, stating that it removed the prosecutorial powers of the police and prosecution in Nigeria. He urged law enforcement agencies not to give up and suggested that any judge who grants an order of perpetual injunction against investigation, interrogation, and arrest should be regarded as having committed a serious act of wrongdoing, which should merit disciplinary action by the National Commission for the Prevention of Corruption. The case could be reopened, and measures are being put in place to ensure such an order is never granted again.
Punch Newspaper, Sunday, September 04, 2016, pg.10
FG Planning to Re-Arrest Ekiti Lawmakers, Others- Fayose
by Odesola Tunde
Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has accused the Federal Government of sending policemen from Abuja to arrest 11 members of the state House of Assembly. The move comes after a failed attempt by the Department of State Services to arrest lawmakers. The alleged clampdown on legislators is expected to begin on Tuesday night. The move is attributed to TKO Aluko's malicious outburst that those listed for arrest stockpiled arms during the governorship election. Fayose vowed to resist any attempt to use the police to harass lawmakers and government officials in the state. The APC chairman, Jide Awe, and TKO Aluko, who are wanted for alleged murder and perjury, have not been arrested. A leader of the APC in Ekiti said there was no big deal in inviting public officials to explain certain actions and inactions.
FG plans sanction for hospitals rejecting gunshot victims
by Lara Adejoro
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in Nigeria has expressed concern over the continued rejection of gunshot victims by hospitals, which is against the provisions of the Gunshot Act 2017, which mandates all medical facilities to provide compulsory treatment and care for victims of gunshots and related matters. The ministry called on medical facilities to comply with the Act, noting that strategies are being put in place to ensure compliance by Nigerian healthcare facilities. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, stressed that gunshot victims must be attended to by hospitals because they come under medical emergencies that require urgent attention to save the life of the patient or victim. The ministry also urged the police to comply with and enforce the provisions of the Act with promptness.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.7
FG seeks $10bn to stabilise exchange rate as naira tumbles
by Justice Okamgba & Damilola Aina
Nigeria's Federal Government plans to raise $10bn to improve foreign exchange market liquidity, following a naira falling to an all-time low of 1,850 per dollar at the parallel market. President Bola Tinubu announced the plan at the inaugural Public Wealth Management Conference in Abuja, focusing on increasing foreign exchange liquidity and ensuring optimal management of government assets and investments. The government aims to double the GDP growth rate and significantly increase the GDP base over the next eight years. The President stressed transparency and accountability as key principles, focusing on improved corporate governance, innovative partnerships, and attracting alternative investment capital. The improved returns will be directed towards funding for education, healthcare, housing, power, roads, and other areas vital to lifting millions out of poverty and stimulating sustainable economic development and job creation.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, pg.17
FG seeks $10bn to stabilise exchange rate as naira tumbles
by Justice Okamgba & Damilola Aina
Nigeria's Federal Government plans to raise $10bn to improve foreign exchange market liquidity, following a naira falling to an all-time low of 1,850 per dollar at the parallel market. President Bola Tinubu announced the plan at the inaugural Public Wealth Management Conference in Abuja, focusing on increasing foreign exchange liquidity and ensuring optimal management of government assets and investments. The government aims to double the GDP growth rate and significantly increase the GDP base over the next eight years. The President stressed transparency and accountability as key principles, focusing on improved corporate governance, innovative partnerships, and attracting alternative investment capital. The improved returns will be directed towards funding for education, healthcare, housing, power, roads, and other areas vital to lifting millions out of poverty and stimulating sustainable economic development and job creation.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, pg.17
Nigeria's Federal Government plans to overhaul its tax system, aiming to increase the tax burden to wealthy citizens and reduce corporate taxes. This move is part of President Bola Tinubu's economic reforms, aiming to lift the country's tax take to 18% of GDP within three years. The plan aims to protect the poor and address widespread tax evasion in Africa.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 29, 2023, pg.27
The Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, has pledged to resuscitate the Ajaokuta Steel Company and set a roadmap for its development. The Federal Government has allocated over N3bn annually to cover personnel costs, but the company has not started operations in over 42 years. Audu emphasized the creation of a new ministry to pursue President Bola Tinubu's overall development. Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, urged staff to be result-oriented and revealed a roadmap for the sector.
FG to spend N315bn, Labour suspends strike for 30 days
by Sami Olatunji, Stephen Angbulu, Deborah Tolu-Kolawole & Egole Anozie
The Federal Government may incur additional N315bn in wage bill in the next six months for the newly introduced allowance for federal workers. This came as Organised Labour agreed to suspend its proposed nationwide strike for 30 days, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Federal Government after a marathon meeting that ended around 11pm on Tuesday. Announcing the outcome of the meeting to State House correspondents, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, said “The NLC and TUC accept to suspend for 30 days the planned Indefinite Nationwide strike scheduled to begin, Tuesday, the 3rd of October, 2023.â€Â Lalong said the memorandum shall be filed with the relevant court of competent jurisdiction within one week as consent judgment by the Federal Government. According to the agreement, the Federal Government grants a wage award of N35,000 only to all Federal Government workers “beginning from the month of September pending when a new national minimum wage is expected to have been signed into law.â€Â The agreement further read in part, “A minimum wage committee shall be inaugurated within one month from the date of this agreement.
FG, Labour meeting deadlocked as fuel price hits over N700/litre
by the news
Talks between the Federal Government and organised labour over the removal of fuel subsidy ended in a deadlock due to the hike in petrol pump prices. The NNPCL has not given people the opportunity to import, leading to no competition and the government resorting to forece.
FG, states debts near N107tn, naira fall raises loans
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
Nigeria’s total debt (Federal Government and states’ loans) may hit at least N107.38tn soon following the approval of fresh borrowings for the Federal Government and the new securitization of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s N7.3tn Ways and Means advances. This is as the Senate, as of December 2023, approved President Bola Tinubu’s request to borrow $7.8 billion and €100 million as part of the Federal Government’s 2022–2024 borrowing plan. According to Tinubu, the Federal Executive Council under former President Muhammadu Buhari approved the loan facility on May 15, 2023, to finance infrastructure, health, education, agriculture, insecurity, and other sectors. While asking for approval, he said the foreign loan was necessary to bridge the financial gap and return normalcy to economic activities in the country. Nigeria’s total debt as of the end of September 2023 was N87.91tn, according to data from the Debt Management Office. The breakdown of this debt revealed total external debt as N31.98tn ($41.59bn) and total domestic debt of N55.93tn. The total debt includes that of the federal government and state governments. Following the recent approvals by the senate, total debt will climb up by at least 22.15 percent (N19.47 trillion) to N107.38 trillion in 2024 if the borrowing plan is followed.
The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPro) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are in a dispute over the payment of outstanding bonuses and allowances for Nigeria women's national team players, dating back to 2021. FIFPro confirmed that it received complaints from players over their outstanding monies with the federation, and confirmed that it is assisting players in a disagreement with the Nigeria Football Federation concerning bonus payments, camp allowances, and expenses. The players expressed the desire to remain focused on their performance without making public statements or facing distractions during the tournament. The Super Falcons believe it is now time for the Nigeria Football Federation to honor their commitments and pay the outstanding amounts. The NFF described the global players union's action as "nothing more than a storm in a team cu." The NFF insisted that it would pay the players what they and FIFA promised them, including payment for friendly matches, qualifying matches, appearance fees, and bonuses once FIFA paid the World Cup money. Some players in the squad have been paid while others are yet to receive theirs. The NFF has a rich history of owing national team players and has been involved in 23 matches, including friendlies and the 2022 WAFCON.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 09, 2023, pg.30
OnePipe, a fintech company, has launched a press writing challenge on finance-focused journalism to promote and inspire educational reporting and writing with particular emphasis on enhancing the awareness and understanding of embedded finance. The challenge is open to all forms of media and will run for a duration of eight weeks. The founder and Chief Executive Officer, Ope Adeoye, said that the world needs a new type of financial services ecosystem, one where everyone has a role to play and everyone has some value to capture. The most important details in this text are that Nigerians can now earn up to $14,000- $17,000 (12 million+) profiting from premium domain names, and that Mama Dada set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan of N70,000 she reportedly took from a microfinance bank, LAPO. The text also explains that the mix-up in the name of the microfinance bank is not deliberate.
OPPO Nigeria has launched the OPPO A96 smartphone with a 5000mAh battery, 33W SUPERVOOCTM flash charging, and a 6.59-inch 90Hz colour-rich punch-hole display. It also features Optimized Night Charging, RAM expansion, 16MP front camera, AI natural retouching, and 360° Fill Light feature. Mama Dada set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan from LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited. President Muhammadu Buhari's unforgivable sins include the Nigerian-naira cash scarcity, Betara and Tinubu's House leadership meeting, Senator Aishatu Dahiru Adamawa's suit against INEC, Multichoice's price hike, and President Muhammadu Buhari swearing in six new permanent secretaries.
Firms improve healthcare products' delivery with technology
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
For the benefit of USAID, GRICD, a provider of cold chain technology that leverages the Internet of Things to enable last-mile delivery of temperature-sensitive goods, has partnered with logistics provider Haultrac to enhance the delivery of vital healthcare supplies to all 36 states as well as the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja.Medicines, fast diagnostic test kits, laboratory reagents, and consumables are among the healthcare items, the company confirmed.
First 30 days: Tinubu takes positive, painful steps
by Stephen Angbulu
30 days after assuming office, President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies and reforms have attracted both praise and criticism from home and abroad. However, the most vulnerable Nigerians only hear hardship as Renewed Hope risks morphing into despair, STEPHEN ANGBULU writes. The discontinuance of petrol subsidy and the unified exchange rate have attracted the praise of many multilateral organisations, foreign investors and Nigerians comfortable enough to bear the combined consequences of these policies. For most citizens, however, the past 30+ days have been a via dolorosa, even as the promised palliatives meant to cushion the aftershocks remain yet elusive. As more citizens sink into multidimensional poverty, the F.G. and Organised Labour are yet to finalise the various scopes of intervention. At the last meeting between both parties at the Presidential Villa on June 19, the F.G. said it had set up a steering committee to consider the various demands of the Organised Labour to produce a workable framework in eight weeks, that is, by August 14.
WhatsApp announced that it had a user base of more than one billion—that is, one in seven people on earth. People all over the world have been using WhatsApp for numerous purposes. Since then, the popular messaging app has added a host of new features, including improved speed, security, reliability, and simplicity. With such a huge user base, it is one of the most popular messaging apps. WhatsApp has also just added a video-calling feature to the app after a series of beta tests. There has been a rise in the app called Snapchat and its Stories feature, from Instagram to Facebook, and now even WhatsApp has tried to clone it. In the new WhatsApp’s Beta app on iOS and Android, there is a new ‘Status’ tab where the ‘Stories’ can be put and seen before they disappear 24 hours later. The new ‘Stories’ feature is only available to a select few who operate on a jailbroken Apple device or a rooted Android smartphone. WhatsApp just confirmed that it is rolling out the video calling feature across Android, iOS, and Windows. You will now be able to see ‘Video Call’ and ‘Voice Call’ choices when you tap the top dialer button. A new dialogue giving the option between a standard voice call and a video call will appear.
Following the floods that have ravaged farmlands in the northern part of the country, agricultural experts and big-time players in the agro-allied industry have sounded the alarm over an impending food crisis across the country as agricultural fortunes dip in the North.The experts insist that unless urgent and very drastic steps are immediately taken, the crisis may worsen as floods continue to ravage farmlands in the northern states.Ten states, namely Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Taraba, Bauchi, Zamfara, Yobe, Sokoto and Kebbi are highly affected, following heavy rainfall in the region. Meanwhile, down South, the Chief Imam of Osogbo, Shiek Musa Animasaun, on Sunday led a prayer session to seek God’s face over the lack of rain being experienced in the state in recent months.The Chairman, Osun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Shiek Maruf Isola, who spoke in Yoruba language, in his sermon, said divine intervention for rain had become necessary as the drought being experienced was already having a negative impact on the residents.
Forex crisis: Passengers groan as foreign airlines hike fares
by Lilian Ukagwu
Travellers are expressing their disappointment and frustrations as airfares continue to skyrocket, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to embark on their desired trips. The rising costs, coupled with economic uncertainties, have left many passengers in a state of dismay. The naira had fallen from N471/$ to N867/$.With this development, intending international students hoping to resume school in September, had been greatly impacted by the unpredictable fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The prices of air tickets had skyrocketed, making it increasingly difficult for Nigerians to travel, especially when compared to neighbouring countries such as Benin and Ghana, where airfares are notably cheaper. As the exchange rate continued to rise, most foreign airlines’ funds were trapped within Nigeria.This scenario created a problematic landscape for Nigerians who depended on reasonably priced flights to go about their business. In an exclusive chat with The PUNCH in Abuja, a potential traveller, noted that although he had not yet booked his flight, He disclosed that many Nigerians had started exploring alternative options. One popular choice was to travel via the Benin Republic, where airfares were considerably cheaper.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) has raised concerns over fraudsters targeting retired judicial officers' pensions. The council claims that the fraudsters have been bombarding retired judges with phone calls demanding various sums of money to help them fast-track the payment of their retirement benefits. The NJC Director of Information, Soji Oye, distanced the council from the actions of the alleged fraudsters and urged retired judicial officers to be wary so as not to fall victim to these unscrupulous elements.Nigerian retirees face delayed payment of pension and gratuities, and judges are not left out. In 2022, six Lagos State retired judges sued the state government and the NJC over their delayed pension. The retired judges who sued were Justices Samuel Candide-Johnson, Iyabo Kasali, Olaide Olayinka, Doris Okuwobi, Titilola Ojikutu-Rhode, and Grace Onyeabo.The council has warned retired judicial officers to be wary of and report such calls to the pension department of the council for appropriate action. In addition, Nigerians have finally been approved to earn in US dollars; premium domains can earn up to $17,000 (₦27 million) monthly.
Fuel importation: Marketers demand equal access to forex
by Okechukwu Nnodim & Tunde Ajaja
Oil marketers have projected that the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol, would hit N515/litre once they source foreign exchange rate at the parallel market. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to provide opportunity for marketers to start importing petrol by enabling dealers to have access to foreign exchange. Currently, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company is the sole importer of PMS into Nigeria, as other marketers stopped importing due to their inability to access the United States dollar. Ukadike called on the government to give oil marketers the opportunity to start importing petrol, as the commodity was now deregulated. He identified the lack of the United States dollar as a challenge, but the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority announced that it was no longer going to fix the prices of petrol or release templates for the commodity.
Fuel importation: Marketers demand equal access to forex
by Okechukwu Nnodim & Tunde Ajaja
Oil marketers have projected that the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit, popularly known as petrol, would hit N515/litre once they source foreign exchange rate at the parallel market. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to provide opportunity for marketers to start importing petrol by enabling dealers to have access to foreign exchange. Currently, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company is the sole importer of PMS into Nigeria, as other marketers stopped importing due to their inability to access the United States dollar. Ukadike called on the government to give oil marketers the opportunity to start importing petrol, as the commodity was now deregulated. He identified the lack of the United States dollar as a challenge, but the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority announced that it was no longer going to fix the prices of petrol or release templates for the commodity.
Google announces news innovation challenge in Nigeria, others
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
The opening of its Innovation Challenge in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa has been announced by the Google News Initiative (GNI). The financing for the chosen innovation initiatives might total up to $150,000 per project. The Innovation Challenge has been active in the area since 2019, and 43 ideas from 18 countries were chosen for the first two rounds, according to GNI.
Government set to provide tax holiday, others to startups
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
The Federal Government intends to provide incentives such as grants, tax and fiscal motivations, startup labels, seed investment, and tax holidays in the nation, according to Isa Pantami, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy. This programme aims to find young people with ideas who are talented startups, place them in developed hubs for training, and provide them with financial support as they develop their goods and services. Government commitment to enacting and implementing laws that support the ecosystem is demonstrated, among other things, by the National Startup Bill and the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship.
Welcome to the world of one of the most dreaded forms of cyberattacks because it can actually wreak havoc to a single system or network of systems. According to TrendMicro, ransomware is a type of malware that prevents or limits users from accessing their system, either by locking the system’s screen or by locking the users’ files until a ransom is paid. More modern ransomware family members, collectively categorised as crypto-ransomware, encrypt certain file types on infected systems and force users to pay the ransom through certain online payment methods to get a decrypt key. I reached out to Remi Afon, the president of the Cybersecurity Experts Association of Nigeria, and he had this to say. To guard against WannaCry ransomware or any form of malware infection, all critical software patches must be updated as soon as patches or new operating system versions are available. This includes mobile and other Internet-connected devices. Also, regular backups of systems must be conducted; systems can be restored in cases of ransomware, and having a current backup of all data speeds up the recovery process. Keep all the software on your computer up-to-date. When your operating system or applications release a new version, install it. And if the software offers the option of automatic updating, take it.
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was murdered by unknown gunmen in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. John Chu, who was the Chairman of the APC, Ward 7 in Onne, was accosted and shot several times by his assailants. Chu was returning home after a meeting of his political party in the area when the incident occurred. The State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnamdi Omoni, confirmed the killing of the party chief and stated that the investigation had begun to apprehend those behind the act. Chu was shot and killed by a group of gunmen on his way back from a party meeting. The state police spokesman described the incident as unfortunate and explained that an investigation had begun to apprehend those behind the act. The incident occurred while Chu was returning home from a party meeting.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 05, 2016, pg.9
H1 23'; FG earned N80.27bn from electronic funds transfer.
by Newsmen
Government and federal capital Territory, 50 per cent to the state governments and 35 per tothe 774 local governments. for instance, the FAACS'communique on june 2023 revenue distribution, issued last week , stated; The N907.05 billion total distributable revenue of30l50 billion distributed.Given the increased adoption of e-payment in the country in the first quarter of this year , when the cash scarcity crisis occassion by CBN NAIRA Redesign policy made more Nigerians ti restort to using e-payment platiforms, expectation in many quarters is that would subsequently boost the country.
Help Us Recover Looted Funds, Buhari Tells UN Assembly
by Akinkuotu Eniola
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has urged world leaders to cooperate in the fight against terrorism and addressing transnational crimes such as forced labor, modern-day slavery, human trafficking, and cybercrime. He emphasized the importance of state institutions strengthening to promote accountability and combat corruption, and urged the international community to provide critical assistance and material support. Buhari also expressed fear of a nuclear war due to the activities of the North Korean Government and called for a special delegation to visit North Korea to ensure a lasting solution. He also urged the UN to not forget UN Security Council Resolutions from 1967 on the Middle East crisis, which remain unimplemented. He also lamented the killings in Myanmar, targeting the Rohingya population, and called for the halt to the ongoing ethnic cleansing and the safe return of the displaced Rohingya people to their homes in safety and dignity.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, October 20, 2016, pg.11
High food prices loom, USAID warns Nigeria, others
by Edidiong Ikpoto
The United States Agency for International Development has warned Nigeria and other African countries to brace up for higher food prices, following recent developments that have temporarily halted Ukraine’s food exports to African countries.
USAID’s Deputy Administrator for Policy and Programming, Isobel Coleman, said this on Thursday at a virtual press conference.
According to her, Russia’s decision to withdraw from the Black Sea Grain Initiative had already begun to trigger higher food prices around the world.
She noted the impact of this food price hike would be more felt in developing countries that were import-dependent, and had conventionally relied on grain imports from Ukraine.Â
Coleman said, “One of the world’s largest breadbaskets is Ukraine. By doing this, Russia is increasing food prices globally. We’ve already seen how global food prices came down over time after the Black Sea Grain Initiative came into place. Since Russia has pulled out of the agreement, food prices have again been on the rise.
“This affects every country around the world, but it affects, most acutely, large import-dependent developing countries that have to spend much of their precious foreign exchange resources to purchase food to feed their population.â€
The Black Sea Grain Initiative was conceived to specifically allow for commercial food and fertiliser (including ammonia) exports from three key Ukrainian ports in the Black Sea, which are Odessa, Chornomorsk, Yuzhny/Pivdennyi.
How Nigeria Can Fight Corruption-Caldemood, Canadian Envoy
by Nwosu Iheanacho
The relationship between Nigeria and Canada is dynamic and positive, with around 70 Canadian companies active in various sectors of Nigeria's market. Canada has great experience and expertise in mining and agriculture, which are priorities for Nigeria's efforts to diversify the economy. Canada has made strides in ensuring mining investments benefit not just the country but the communities where they are located. However, Nigeria has not focused on mining until recently, and the government and Minister Fayemi are determined to develop this sector. Canada has also been instrumental in Nigeria's fight against insurgents, identifying niches where they can be helpful and providing training programs for police and military officers. Over 100 officers have benefitted from these training programs, with some focusing on crime-related issues and terrorist attacks. The Canadian government is determined to help Nigeria develop its potential in renewable energy, which will have a spill-off effect on the entire Nigerian economy.
When you take into account vision impairment and restricted movement, things get even more complicated for people who are new to smartphones and find the UI puzzling rather than straightforward. For instance, older users may have difficulty reading text and graphics and clicking buttons on the screen. Here are some suggestions for improving smartphone accessibility: Make text easier to read, streamline the user interface, enable voice control, convert lists to text (so the device can read the works to you), and obtain assistance with real-world reading.
One needs to exercise caution while posting content to social media because one never knows exactly who will see their pictures and status updates.Here are the privacy settings for four of the main social networks that you should be aware of: How to make postings on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter private as well as how to make a TikTok post private.
One needs to exercise caution while posting content to social media because one never knows exactly who will see their pictures and status updates.Here are the privacy settings for four of the main social networks that you should be aware of: How to make postings on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter private as well as how to make a TikTok post private.
Installing Windows 10 or 11; purchasing Microsoft Office; setting up an Outlook email address are all actions that increase the likelihood of having a Microsoft account. From Microsoft Edge to OneDrive, this portal connects everything you do with Microsoft's products. To set up strong defence against hackers and con artists, you don't need to be a seasoned security professional. Here are some steps you may do to secure your Microsoft account: Make use of two-step verification and secure passwords, Stay current, avoid frauds, monitor device and account activities, and safeguard your privacy. More privacy options are available in Edge, the Windows 10 Settings app, and other places.
Installing Windows 10 or 11; purchasing Microsoft Office; setting up an Outlook email address are all actions that increase the likelihood of having a Microsoft account. From Microsoft Edge to OneDrive, this portal connects everything you do with Microsoft's products. To set up strong defence against hackers and con artists, you don't need to be a seasoned security professional. Here are some steps you may do to secure your Microsoft account: Make use of two-step verification and secure passwords, Stay current, avoid frauds, monitor device and account activities, and safeguard your privacy. More privacy options are available in Edge, the Windows 10 Settings app, and other places.
 Because of their size, large files and folders must be shared online via programmes and apps. For example, you might want to send an edited home movie to a devoted cousin or back up a photo collection to a different site. Use these services to distribute any huge data loads, whether you're moving them across computers or sharing them with others: Use Dropbox, Google, WeTransfer, or iCloud to exchange enormous files. You can also use Dropbox to share gigantic files..
Large files and folders must be exchanged online through programmes and apps due to their size. For instance, you could want to backup your photo collection to a separate website or transmit an edited home video to a devoted relative. To spread any large data loads, whether you are moving them across machines or sharing them with others, use the following services: To send large files, use iCloud, Dropbox, Google, WeTransfer, or Google Drive. Dropbox also allows you to share very large files.
Large files and folders must be exchanged online through programmes and apps due to their size. For instance, you could want to backup your photo collection to a separate website or transmit an edited home video to a devoted relative. To spread any large data loads, whether you are moving them across machines or sharing them with others, use the following services: To send large files, use iCloud, Dropbox, Google, WeTransfer, or Google Drive. Dropbox also allows you to share very large files.
The focus of services like Netflix, Hulu, and others is on streaming films and TV shows continuously. They don't stay on some platforms indefinitely. They acquire new videos while losing old ones as liencesing deals renew or expire. Any given day, one might search for their favourite TV show only to discover it has been discontinued. The following choices for streaming your videos to any device are more dependable: Purchase your preferred digital entertainment from websites like Apple TV and Google Play, create your own streaming service, and then keep the film on your computer at home so that you can stream it to other devices around the house.The Windows and Mac operating systems, as well as third-party apps, make it relatively easy to set up your own streaming service from the comfort of home.
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has announced that his administration has convened a national conference to address insecurity and agitations in the country. The conference was organized by The Patriots, led by Prof. Ben Nwabueze, and was a consensus-based decision. Jonathan called on President Muhammadu Buhari to implement the conference's recommendations, stating that council chairmen were receiving allocations without using them for community development. He also criticized interventionist agencies for leaving behind uncompleted projects in the Niger Delta. Jonathan emphasized that states had better utilized the 13% derivation that came to the oil-rich region.
The Chief Executive Officer of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company, Kingsley Achife, on Monday said the residential consumers in Ogun State owed the company over N67bn.
Achife urged members of the public never to cover staff of the company indulging in unwholesome practices as about 10 of such erring staff had been sacked in the last five months
He disclosed this at a community engagement held at the IBEDC headoffice, Leme, Abeokuta, for its customers within Abeokuta metropolis and Sagamu.
Achife, who was represented by the Lead Media Relations Officer, IBEDC, Ibadan, Mrs Busolami Tunwase, said consumers should to pay their debts to avoid disconnection.Â
He said the company called for the engagement with the customers to seek better working relationships, and to particularly appeal to them to help in paying their debts which was now becoming a source of concern to the company.
Achife said “We have called this meeting to seek better working relationships with our customers but this we cannot do if they are not paying for the services being rendered.
“As we speak customers in Ogun State are owing us over N67bn, this is very huge and we all know that no business can survive with suffocating debt like this. So we are appealing to them to pay up before we begin to disconnect them.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 18, 2023, pg.11
ICYMI: Jonathan Promised to Speak on 2015 Poll Defeat Soon
by Olusola Fabiyi
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to adopt the statutory delegates' option in the next review of its constitution, particularly for state and local government primaries. He emphasised the need for a modality where no one person could influence delegates to elections and suggested that those who served at certain levels should be made statutory delegates. Jonathan also urged PDP members not to be intimidated by corruption and urged society to come up with reforms to reduce it. He also said that the PDP is still the strongest party and that some issues may be addressed in the future. He encouraged his party members to continue with the party, stating that the PDP did well during its 16-year rule by the number of reforms it implemented. He also mentioned his defeat in the 2015 presidential election and his plans to speak on the reasons behind the party's defeat.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 29, 2017, pg.12
If ASUU stops fighting ,public varsities will die like primary schools.
by Grace Edema
The major challenge in Nigerian universities has to do with salaries, lack of laboratories, teaching environment, shortage of lecturers, infrastructure, and lack of light. This has led to students having no seats to sit down, sharing seats, and no teaching aids or audios. Additionally, lecturers are stressed doing excess of what they should not be doing, and students have to stay 15-20 kilometres away from the school for accommodation at a cheaper rate. These are critical problems that cannot be addressed outside of the system. The union of lecturers is asking the government to increase the budget to education from the present five per cent to six per cent to 15 to 25 per cent and devote N1.3tn to Nigerian universities spread over six years. They also want the government to devote 30% of the Value Added Tax (VAT) to fund education and even 20% of VAT would resolve all these problems.
Igbo demands cabinet slot in Niger, cites revenue generation
by Chika Otuchikere
The Igbo community in Niger State has called on Governor Mohammed Bago to appoint an Igbo member to his cabinet, reimbursing their contribution to the state's Internally Generated Revenue. They believe this would align with Bago's promised 'all-inclusive' government and support his son, George Dike, who assured them of his sincerity.
The Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council has declared that the Ndigbo must produce Nigeria's President in 2019, with a northerner potentially serving as Vice-President. The youths have mobilized resources to achieve an "Igbo President" in 2019, stating that the Igbo will no longer play a "second fiddle" in Nigerian politics. Their position on the 2019 presidential election was influenced by the North's opposition to restructuring calls and the quit order given to Igbo living in the North by a coalition of Northern groups. The youths believe that a Nigerian President of Igbo extraction would pacify all Igbo, including agitators, and prevent Biafran agitation.
Increased education financing ,key to post-pandemic learning and recovery
by Motunrayo Fatoke
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted education systems worldwide, leading to mass closures of schools, early childhood education services, universities, and colleges. In Nigeria, basic education is financed through concurrent financing from the three tiers of government, leading to laying off teachers, increasing student dropouts, and insecurities..
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, January 05, 2022, pg.16
Influx of smuggled textiles killed 150 local companies – TEA
by Edidiong Ikpoto
The Nigerian Textile Employers Association claims smuggling of textile products through Nigeria's land borders has led to the collapse of over 150 companies in the last 40 years. The closure of the Nigeria-Niger border, stranded trucks, indicates inferior products entering the country at the expense of the local industry.
The PDP, the ruling party in Nigeria, has accused former President Muhammadu Buhari of sharing money meant to fight insurgency in the North-East and the country as a whole. The party's Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Abdulahi Jalo, stated that the former President should clarify whether he authorized the sharing of money meant for arms purchase. Jalo urged all those who took part in the sharing of the money to refund it, and that former President Jonathan should speak on the matter. The party has alleged that several prominent members, including former Governors of Rivers State, Sokoto State, and Oyo State, were involved in the scam. The party also mentioned ex-PDP National Chairman Bello Haliru, Abba Mohammed, Sagir Attahiru, and former members of the House of Representatives. Those not members of the PDP are also linked to collecting cash. The party held a fundraising dinner for the scam.
Jonathan Under Pressure to Abandon PDP Peace Process
by Olusola Fabiyi
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been pressured to abandon the peace process he initiated in the troubled Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Investigations revealed that the former President was no longer interested in bringing the two factions in the party together. National Chairman of the party, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, has distanced himself from the peace process. The party under Sheriff will no longer take part in the peace process, which ended in confusion about two weeks ago. Sheriff led members of his National Working Committee out of a meeting on April 6, aimed at discussing the party's crisis. The former President had promised to set up a 40-man team to find a political solution to the crisis. The caretaker committee spokesperson, Dayo Adeyeye, stated that the reluctance of Jonathan to continue with the process could be due to the pulling out of the process by the Sheriff group. Some members of the party, including about two governors, have called on the former President to jettison the idea of setting up any committee.
The Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe on Thursday uncovered three reservoirs used for the storage of illegally-refined fuel in Bayelsa. The reservoirs, located along Tamara Street in Biogbolo, have about 35, 000 litres of Automated Gas Oil (diesel) and 38 jerrycans filled with illegally-refined products loaded in a vehicle. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that during the operation, which included operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, three boys working in the facility were arrested and interrogated.
Kano begins contact tracing as diphtheria spreads to 31 LGs
by Ted Odogwu
The Kano State Government, on Sunday, said it had activated contact tracing as the diphtheria outbreak in the state has spread to 31 out of the 44 local government areas of the state.
The state epidemiologist, Dr. Abdullahi Karaunmata, who disclosed this in a chat with newsmen, said over 100 patients were on hospital admission, while about 2,000 patients who were treated and had recovered had been discharged.
The resurgence of diphtheria, according to him, may be linked to the aftermath of the COVID-19Â pandemic, which resulted in a lockdown and disruption of routine immunisation of children.
Karaunmata said, “Recently, the NCDC released a list or an update outlining the number of states affected, with the total number of confirmed cases, including the mortality among the children. The report has categorised Kano among the states with the highest number of diphtheria patients.Â
“Currently, we have more than 100 cases on admission. We have treated and discharged over 2,000.
“The diphtheria has been reported in 31 out of the 44 LGAs in the state.
“Through the epidemiology unit, we have now established contact tracing teams across the high-burden LGAs. The team is actively searching for the children, with symptoms of diphtheria. With this development we have focused our searchlight on all the nooks and crannies of the state, searching for these patients.â€Â
Despite government warnings against crowd-funding for ransoms, the practice continues to gain ground, with abductees and their families raising funds from relatives, friends, and social media to secure the release of kidnapped victims. Families of abductees disregarded the government's warnings, fearing the victims might be killed or harmed if they failed to pay the ransom. The Nigerian Police Force and Minister of Defence have warned against engaging in crowd-funding for ransoms.
Killer of two-year-old Delta boy in custody, say police
by Matthew Ochei
The Delta State Police Command on Tuesday said the suspect responsible for the killing of a two-year-old boy, Ivan Omhonrina, two weeks ago, had been arrested.
PUNCH Metro reports that Omhonrina was killed by a stray bullet during an operation by officers of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency at Okpanam in the Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The NDLEA had said the incident occurred when its men were raiding a drug joint in the area.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bright Edafe, disclosed to journalists in Asaba, the state capital, that the suspect was already in custody.Â
He, however, did not disclose the identity of the suspect.
“The suspect who allegedly killed the two-year-old boy a few weeks ago is in our custody. The investigation is almost completed and he will be charged to court,†he simply said.
Meanwhile, the command, on Tuesday, paraded a 22-year-old kidnapper, Ojokor Jeffrey, and eight others.
Kogi Assembly Suspends ALGON Chairman, Five Others
by Odogun Gbenga
Isah Taiofiq, Chairman of the Kogi State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, and five local government administrators have been suspended by the state House of Assembly due to allegations of abandoning their secretariats and staying in hotels to disburse statutory allocations, making them inaccessible in their designated areas. Governor Alhaji Yahaya Bello has called for calm.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 05, 2016, pg.11
Kogi attacks EFCC over N80bn case against Yahaya Bello
by Tunde Oyekola
The Kogi State Government has criticised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for alleging that the immediate-past governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, was involved in an alleged N80 billion scam. The state governor expressed dissatisfaction with the EFCC's decision to amend a charge against Bello, who left office on January 27. The government accused the EFCC of collaborating with "criminals masquerading as politicians" to tarnish Bello's image and portrayed the agency as infested with individuals who disagreed with President Muhammadu Buhari's efforts to combat corruption in Nigeria. The original charge against Ali Bello and Dauda Suleiman was against Ali's associate, Dauda Suleiman. The EFCC's allegations are deemed laughable as the election that produced Bello was conducted in November 2015, and he had no financial dealings with the Kogi State Government.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.10
Labour faults FG's meeting, insists on indefinite strike
by Adelani Adepegba, Okechukwu Nnodim, Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & Lara Adejoro
Nigerian workers are preparing for an indefinite nationwide strike, with the National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress, Tommy Etim, stating that the government has given enough time to address their demands. Etim warns of fuel scarcity and nationwide blackouts from Tuesday, and health workers will be unavailable to attend to patients. The strike is expected to begin on October 3, 2023.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.2
Labour protests as FG threatens union leaders with contempt charge
by Adelani Adepegba, Solomon Odeniyi, Stephen Angbulu & Nathaniel Shaibu
The National Deputy President of the Trade Union Congress, Tommy Etim, has criticized the Federal Government's attempt to prevent the Organised Labour from launching an indefinite nationwide strike. Etim stated that labour leaders would not be threatened and would be willing to face imprisonment for their fight for better lives for Nigerian workers.
A leadership crisis is brewing in the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following allegations of misconduct against the party chairman, Mr. Ezekiel Nwogwugwu. Some party stakeholders accused the party chairman of running the party as a personal business and trying to sell it to moneybags ahead of the 2019 general election. Following the allegations, the planned inauguration of the new executive committee and the opening of the party secretariat at the council headquarters in Omoba was aborted by the state chairman, Donatus Nwankpa, who swiftly petitioned security agencies. Nwankpa said the party had set up a six-man committee to look into the matter and petitioned the security agencies to stop the formal opening of the party secretariat to avert a breach of peace and order. Former chairman of the Isiala-Ngwa South council, Uzoma Uwa, said the sack of the party chairman was in line with the APC Constitution.
The Lagos State Police Command, on Wednesday, arraigned 21-year-old Basit Ogunrombi before a magistrates’ court sitting at Ogba for allegedly stealing phones and money worth N397,000. Ogunrombi is facing a three-count charge of breach of peace, conspiracy and stealing preferred against him by the police. The defendant, pleaded not guilty to all the charges against him. Magistrate S. The case was adjourned till August 8 2023, for mention.
Taxes paid by manufacturers in 2023 increased by 115 per cent from N192bn in the first quarter, to N414.5bn in the second quarter. A data collated from various Company Income Tax and Value Added Tax reports published by the National Bureau of Statistics revealed. According to findings by The PUNCH, in the first quarter of 2023, manufacturers paid N62.9bn as CIT, while of N129.2bn was paid as Value Added Tax. In the second quarter, the VAT paid by manufacturers increased by 17 per cent to N151.7bn, while CIT increased to N262.7bn. This meant that manufacturers paid at least N607bn in CIT and VAT in the first six months of the year. The data also showed that across the VAT and CIT remittances in 2023, the manufacturing sector was the most taxed sector in the first and second quarters of the year. While speaking in an exclusive interview with the PUNCH, the Director-General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, said manufacturers had continued to battle over-taxation, alongside other factors that had negatively affected the growth of the industry.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 08, 2023, pg.17
Military destroys 23 illegal refineries, arrests 60 oil thieves.
by Solomon Odeniyi
The military high command says it has discovered destroyed no fewer than 23 illegal crude oil refeneries and arrested 60 suspected oil thieves in the last two weeks. The Director, Defence media operation media operations , maj. Gen Edward Buba, disclosed this on wednesday during miltary biweekly press briefing in Abuja. There has been increased clampdown on i oil theft in recent times following a directive by president Bola Tinubu to security agencies to crush oil theft.Troops equally destroyed 22 illegal refining sites, 15 wooden boats, 34storage tanks, 96 ovens, and 16 dugout pits , while a total of 60 suspected criminals were apprehended within the period.'the burning of the vesssel drew criticisms from some quarters with the House of Representatives, on Tuesday cautioning the military and other security agencies to desist from burning vessels with nstolen crude.Reacting to the criticisms while fielding question from journalists on Thursday Buba said the burning of the vessel was in line with militarys' standard operating procedure on stolen crude oil.
Military destroys 23 illegal refineries, arrests 60 oil thieves.
by Solomon Odeniyi
The military high command says it has discovered and destroyed no fewer than 23 illegal crude oil refeneries and arrested 60 suspected oil thieves in the last two weeks. The Director, Defence media operations, Maj. Gen Edward Buba, disclosed this on wednesday during miltary's biweekly press briefing in Abuja. there has been increased clampdown on oil theft in recent times following a directive by president Bola Tinubu to security agencies to crush oil theft. the military spokesman said ,Troops of operation Delta safe recovered 367200 litres of crude ,27,150 litres of Auyomotive Gas oil, 550 assorted rounds of ammunition, 12 cacalibres of weapons, seven empty. The burning of the vessel drew criticisms from some quarter with the house of Representatives, on Tuesday cautioning the military and order security agencies.
Ondo State Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko has denied any intention to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) despite the controversy surrounding the Peoples Democratic Party's flag in the state governorship election. He stated that the courtesies he extended to President Muhammadu Buhari during a rally in the state were done for his position as President and had nothing to do with the party he belongs to. Mimiko stated that he had briefed Buhari on the security situation in his state ahead of the elections and that he owed the responsibility to Nigerians to inform him of any credible threats to security. He also stated that he was concentrating on the case in court and that if his candidate wins, the state would erupt in joy.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, November 22, 2016, pg.12
The Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, walked out in anger on leaders of the National Association of Nigerian Students on Monday, negating the essence of leadership. This raises the question of what the real essence of leadership is and whether a leader should miss the opportunity to teach these students a lesson or two. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has been on strike for 14 out of his 78 months in office, demanding improved quality of infrastructure, learning and welfare of university teachers. Education is pivotal to the future of the country, with over 13 million children out of school and a huge number of those attending schools not learning anything. Adamu should have answered the question of why he sent his child to a school outside of Nigeria while the children of the poor suffer from incessant strike action.
Minister Adamu,another constituted authority, can't take the heat
by Abimbola Adelakun
Abiola Ajimobi's 2017 "constituted authority" episode, in which he addressed students of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology who were protesting the extended closedown of their school, symbolised how public officials can be detached from the reality of the people they oversee. On Monday, Minister of Education, Adamu Adamu, walked out on student leaders who had met with him over the ongoing strike action paralyzing activities in public universities. The NANS leaders were unprepared for the opportunity and had no points to present beyond the "aluta" rhetoric. Adamu should have known better, as the NANS leaders had an opportunity to present their cases to both the government and the public, demonstrating the value of education, the urgency of revamping it, and why the government owes us a strikeless future.
by Dare Olawin, Gbenga Oloniniran, Henry Falaiye & Justice Okamgba
Long queues in filling stations across Lagos State have been reported, despite the suspension of the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) strike. The queues began to build up on Tuesday due to fear that premium motor spirit might become scarce due to the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) strike. Independent marketers, including Mobil, Total, and Conoil, have also experienced supply shortages. The queues have caused traffic gridlock on major roads in Lagos. Filling stations along the Alausa axis, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited stations, and stations near Isolo General Hospital have also experienced fuel shortages. The Vice National President of Independent Petroleum Marketers, Hammed Fashola, stated that the fuel queues were caused by the two-day strike by tanker drivers. The National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) members called off their strike on Tuesday and resumed loading fuel today. Lagosians have expressed frustration over the fuel scarcity, with some calling on President Bola Tinubu to call oil marketers to order.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, February 22, 2024, pg.24
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has relieved the Vice Chancellor of the Plateau State University, Prof. Bernard Matau, of his position and cancelled staff recruitment for the university in 2022 and early 2023. Mutfwang also sacked one rector and three provosts from other state-owned tertiary institutions. The affected heads include the Rector of the Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi, Provost of the College of Health Technology, Pankshin, Zawan, and Provos of the College of Education, Gindiri. The sacked VC is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and was the state Commissioner for Higher Education before being appointed by the previous governor, Simon Lalong. The governor has also approved the dissolution of the Governing Council of the Plateau State University and the removal of heads of tertiary institutions. Applications for an all-inclusive recruitment for all tertiary institutions will be advertised.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.7
My pep talk, changes gave Falcons Australia win — Waldrum
by Johnny Edward
Super Falcons coach, Randy Waldrum, has revealed that his half-time team talk with his players was all the inspiration they needed to beat co-hosts Australia in their second Group B game of the 2023 Women’s World Cup at Lang Park, Brisbane on Thursday, The PUNCH reports. The plucky nine-time African champions stunned Australia 3-2 in an explosive and tension-filled clash in Brisbane. Five-time CAF Women’s Player of The Year, Asisat Oshoala, slotted in the third for the Falcons in the 72nd minute, which proved to be the winner, despite Alanna Kennedy’s extra-time goal in the 100th minute. “I think two things happened, “Waldrum began. “One is, after giving up the first goal before halftime, we were able to respond and get it back. I think that was huge from a confidence standpoint. We tried to sort out a little bit of a problem that Van Egmont was causing for us in midfield, finding a lot of pockets of space. “I’m so proud of these players because so many people didn’t believe, so many didn’t believe in me, didn’t believe in the team. †Waldrum added, top teams in the world says a lot, “I told them after the match, ‘keep believing, Keep believing in yourself. It’s not always the best talent that wins.
My Successor Will not Come from Igbinedon's Family- Oshiomhole
by Okere Alexander
Governor Adams Oshiomhole has confirmed that his successor for the Edo State governorship will not be from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party or the political family of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion. Oshiomhole acknowledged the pains faced by the former governor and other opposition leaders since his 2008 election and urged Igbinedion not to worry about the outcome of the September 28 election. He urged Igbinedion to focus on what his PDP has done in Edo to deserve victory and not to dream of victory. Igbinedion, however, stated that his family does not claim ownership of Edo State but is interested in its development, urging Edo to decide under whose administration they have enjoyed more prosperity.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, September 21, 2016, pg.19
N35,000 wage award: Labour gives govs ultimatum, 61 million Nigerians to get N1tn
by Stephen Angbulu, Tukur Muntari, Olaide Oyelude & Peter Dada
Organised Labour has issued a two-week deadline to governors to commence negotiations on the N35,000 wage award for workers in their states in line with the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Federal Government, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.
The state chapters of the NLC and TUC, which handed down the ultimatum on Tuesday, said they had written to the governors to fast-track the necessary protocols and implement the award meant to assuage the subsidy removal pains. The unions pointed out that the deadline for payment of the wage award would expire in the next two weeks, and they asked the governors to begin the implementation process.
This came as President Bola Tinubu Tuesday inaugurated the N1tn cash transfer programme to 15 million households to cushion the economic shocks of the fuel subsidy.
Each household will receive N25,000 for three months. With 15 million households getting N25,000 each for three months, about N1.13tn will be spent on the programme. At the event, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, said about 61 million Nigerians would benefit from the cash transfer.
The national leadership of the NLC and TUC had on October 1 reached an agreement with the FG to pay N35,000 to all federal workers beginning from September, pending when a new national minimum wage is expected to have been signed into law.
The resolution provided that the wage award would be paid to the federal workers for six months while states were encouraged to extend the same benefit to their workers.
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Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 18, 2023, pg.2
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is working to eliminate trans-fats from food, as part of efforts to reduce Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and deaths. The revised Fats, Oil, and Food containing Fats and Oil Regulation 2022 and Pre-Packaged Food Labelling Regulation 2022 aim to reduce the number of NCDs and deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends two policy pathways for implementation: banning partially hydrogenated oils, which are the source of industrially produced trans-fatty acids, and setting limits on the amount of industrially produced TFAs to less than 2% of the total fat content in all foods. The agency is collaborating with the Network for Health Equity and Development, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, Global Health Advocacy Incubator, GHAI, and GHAI to combat risk factors of NCDs.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 09, 0023, pg.29
NAFEM: Dollar supply rises by 180% as banks sell $440m
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
Dollar supply in the official foreign exchange market rose by 180.59 percent to $440.13m on Friday. This is as the naira closed the week at N1435.53/$ on Friday after what was a turbulent week. According to data from FMDQ Security Exchange, forex turnover rose by 180.59 percent to $440.13m on Friday from $156.86m on Thursday. However, aside from commercial banks, the Central Bank of Nigeria, oil firms and multinationals also sell dollars at NAFEM. The improved liquidity is following moves by the Central Bank of Nigeria to stabilise the foreign exchange rate. Before closing at N1435.53/$ on Friday, the naira traded at an intraday high of N1526/$ and low of N838.96/$. Last week, the apex bank rolled out new circulars and guidelines to boost liquidity and narrow the gap between the parallel and official rates of the foreign exchange market. In its most significant foreign exchange guideline, last week, the CBN ordered banks to adjust their FX exposures. At the parallel market, on Friday, the naira closed at N1,420/$ with a steady demand for the greenback.
The Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Jalal Arabi, and the commission's secretary, Abdullahi Kontagora, have been detained for the third night in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) custody due to their failure to meet bail conditions. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission is investigating the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria helmsmen over alleged mismanagement or diversion of N90bn released by the Federal Government to subsidy the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia. The investigation revealed that Arabi fraudulently overpaid himself and others for the necessary operational costs. The EFCC has previously grilled Arabi for hours and released him on bail. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria Chairman and secretary are currently in custody and facing serious interrogations on the N90bn subsidy, among other allegations.
by Oyetunji Abioye, , Temitayo Jaiyeola & Damilola Aina
Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria are selling excess dollar stocks ahead of the Central Bank of Nigeria's deadline of February 1, 2024. The CBN has issued a circular ordering banks to sell their excess dollar stocks and warning lenders against hoarding excess foreign currencies for profit. The circular aims to reduce risks associated with banks holding large foreign currency positions. Bureau De Change operators in Lagos, Kano, and Abuja have pushed to sell their dollar holdings amid fear the local unit might sustain the gain in coming days. The CBN has also removed the previous cap on exchange rates quoted by international money transfer operators.
The Nasarawa State Police Command arrested 109 suspected illegal miners in the Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area of Nigeria. The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Yakubu Kwanta, commended the police for their efforts and called on illegal miners to form cooperative societies and register properly. The operation commenced from Mada station to Wakama community, around the Alogani mountain stretch. The suspects were arrested at various locations carrying out illegal mining of solid minerals such as Topaz, Tin, and Aquamarine. The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources called for them to repent and form cooperative groups before returning to their mining sites.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, pg.43
Nasarawa poly student's abductors slash ransom to N.5m
by Collins Sunday
The abductors of an ND II student of the Science Laboratory Technology Department of the Nasarawa State-owned Isa Mustapha Agwai Polytechnic, Lafia, Miss Taye Ajoke, have demanded for N500,000 as her ransom payment instead of the N50m they earlier requested for her release. Heavily armed men had attacked Ombi 1, a residential area for students, which is two kilometers away from the polytechnic, and whisked the student to an unknown destination after shooting sporadically for about an hour. The incident left two other students and an admission seeker with bullet wounds, while the police later rushed them (injured students) to a government hospital for treatment.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.4
National Assembly leadership: Tinubu’s meeting with lawmakers fails to resolve zoning crisis
by Leke Baiyewu, Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, Dirisu Yakubu & Temitope Omogbolagun and Stephen Angbulu
Five days to the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly, the APC leadership had also endorsed the member-elect representing Kaduna, as speakership candidate, while the member-elect from Abia State, clinched the Deputy Speaker slot. Not officially declared its consensus candidate to run against Abbas. While Abbas is from Kaduna State in the North-West, Member-elect for the Ningi/Warji Federal Constituency in Bauchi State, but he simply called for a united front. Both Senate and the House of Representatives, he emphasised that he will perform an open-door policy for everybody. Told The PUNCH that Tinubu appealed to lawmakers to uphold national interest. He didn’t mention anybody’s name to be voted for. Maybe he is appealing, What he told them there and then was that the zoning stands. What he was trying to tell them, based on our interpretation, where no leadership position was zoned to, the source admitted that “it does not favour him. The source stated, †adding that, as part of his continued lobbying for votes..
The National Library of Nigeria's involvement in children's book contests raises issues that need to be addressed. The National Library's partnership with Alphabetic, who is referred to as "a seasoned organiser of World Book Day," is puzzling in certain ways. Anybody older than 16 may enter the competitions. All entries must be unpublished and original, and they cannot be covered by a publisher's contract. Additionally prohibited are abusive, slanderous, or racist materials, as well as "materials deemed explicit, gratuitously violent, or referencing self-harm." The National Library needs to make clear how it fits into this situation. Such a significant national institution is unworthy of it.
The National Library of Nigeria's involvement in children's book contests raises issues that need to be addressed. The National Library's partnership with Alphabetic, who is referred to as "a seasoned organiser of World Book Day," is puzzling in certain ways. Anybody older than 16 may enter the competitions. All entries must be unpublished and original, and they cannot be covered by a publisher's contract. Additionally prohibited are abusive, slanderous, or racist materials, as well as "materials deemed explicit, gratuitously violent, or referencing self-harm." The National Library needs to make clear how it fits into this situation. Such a significant national institution is unworthy of it.
The National Library of Nigeria's involvement in children's book contests raises issues that need to be addressed. The National Library's partnership with Alphabetic, who is referred to as "a seasoned organiser of World Book Day," is puzzling in certain ways. Anybody older than 16 may enter the competitions. All entries must be unpublished and original, and they cannot be covered by a publisher's contract. Additionally prohibited are abusive, slanderous, or racist materials, as well as "materials deemed explicit, gratuitously violent, or referencing self-harm." The National Library needs to make clear how it fits into this situation. Such a significant national institution is unworthy of it.
New public service rules may force out 512 directors
by Adelani Adepegba
The Federal Government has implemented the revised Public Service Rules, 2021, which may force 512 civil service directors who have spent eight years on the directorate cadre out of service. The new rules introduce a tenure policy for permanent secretaries, requiring four years of renewable office, subject to performance. The mandatory retirement age for all grades is 60 years or 35 years of pensionable service, and no officer can remain in service after reaching this age.
NEW SERVICE CHIEFS: 100 MILITARY GENERALS MAY BE RETIRED
by Solomon Odeniyi, Stephen Angbulu, Abiodun Sanusi & Godwin Isenyo
About 100 top officers including Generals, Brigadier Generals, Air Vice Marshals, and Admirals in the Nigerian Army, Navy and Airforce may proceed on compulsory retirement following the appointment of new service chiefs on monday by President Tinubu. aside from the imminent gale of retirement, many officers would be promoted to thier next rank to fill the vacancies that would be created by the retiring generals as part of the reorganisation of the services of the new service chiefs. Tinubu announced the immediate retirement of General Lucky Irabor, Chief of Defense Staff, Lt.General Farouk Yahaya Chief of Army Staff, Vice Admiral awwal gambo Chief of Naval Staff and Air Marshal Oladayo Amoo Chief of Air Staff and replaced them with new military chiefs. The new chiefs are Major General Christopher Musa Chief of Defense Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja Chief of Army Staff, Real Admiral Emmauel Ogalla Chief of Naval Staff and Air Vice Marshal Hassan Abubakar Chief of Air Staff. DIG Kayode Egbetokun was appointed Inspector General of Police.Â
Ngige asks ASUU to end strike, ondo students protest.
by Deborah Tolu Kolawole, Abiodun Nejo & Peter Dada
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, has said his Finance counterpart, Zainab Ahmed, will find means to pay the earned allowances to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) due to the Federal Government's lack of money. ASUU had announced a four-week strike following the failure of the government to honour some of its long-standing demands. Ngige said the implementation of most of the union's demands were in progress. The meeting mandated a joint committee of ASUU, the National Universities Commission and the National Information Technology Development Agency to conduct an integrity test on the platform in conjunction with neutral experts. They are expected to conclude the test by March 8 and work on it within six weeks. If the Federal Government is in arrears on any tranche, the finance minister will look for money to pay, even though the Federal Government does not have money.
Ngige asks ASUU to end strike, ondo students protest.
by Deborah Tolu Kolawole, Abiodun Nejo & Peter Dada
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, has said his Finance counterpart, Zainab Ahmed, will find means to pay the earned allowances to members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) due to the Federal Government's lack of money. ASUU had announced a four-week strike following the failure of the government to honour some of its long-standing demands. Ngige said the implementation of most of the union's demands were in progress. The meeting mandated a joint committee of ASUU, the National Universities Commission and the National Information Technology Development Agency to conduct an integrity test on the platform in conjunction with neutral experts. They are expected to conclude the test by March 8 and work on it within six weeks. If the Federal Government is in arrears on any tranche, the finance minister will look for money to pay, even though the Federal Government does not have money.
Niger ambush; Tinubu mourns soldiers, NAFvows to pound bandits.
by Solomon Odeniyi, & Samuel Bolaji,
president Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday, mourned the death of troops killed by bandits in an ambush in the shiroro area of niger state, as well crash of a Nigerian Air force helicopter in the state on monday.the president, in a statement he personally signed onm tuesday, he said, these officers and men were answering the call of duty while on an evacuation mission, in their dedicated service to our boeloved country, they paid the ultimate price.
Niger Assembly rejects commissioners’ list over poor Christian inclusion
by Chika Otuchikere
The Niger State House of Assembly has suspended the screening of the commissioner nominees forwarded by Governor Mohammed Bago, decrying the inclusion of “only three Christians†in the 30-nominee list.
The lawmakers described as unfair the inclusion of only 10 per cent of Christians in the list.
The PUNCHÂ reliably gathered that the lawmakers met at the weekend after the Speaker, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, summoned an emergency meeting.
The lawmakers decided to suspend the screening of the commissioner-nominees until there was at least 25 per cent Christian representation.
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The lawmaker representing Lavun Constituency, Yusuf Dabban, while speaking at the annual state convention of the Women Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Niger State chapter in Kutigi, Lavun Local Government Area, said, “Christians and Muslims in the state are one. We (lawmakers) have asked that the list be adjusted.â€Â The list has Elizabeth Shaba from Paikoro, Ibrahim Ijah from Tafa, and Maurice Magaji from Munya, as the only Christians. “When we received the list, we looked at it and discovered that there is no iota of guidance. And we, the lawmakers, especially the principal officers, are already making a recommendation that Christians form 30 per cent or at least 25 per cent of the executive council.
President Bola Tinubu sent a delegation to Libya and Algeria to address the Niger Republic crisis, where a military junta overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum. The delegation will meet with the Niger coup leaders to present demands from ECOWAS leadership. Former Nigerian Vice President Atiku Abubakar called for diplomatic engagement to resolve the crisis, recommending the sub-regional body not to take military action against the coupists.
The executive secretary UBEC, Dr Hamid Bobboyi, lamented that there are shortage of teachers in government schools across the country and that there is need to get more qualified and competent ones.
by Ameh John, Ekpimah Etim, Success Nwogu & Odogwu Ted
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the House of Representatives has criticised President Muhammadu Buhari's administration, claiming that the two-year-old administration has worsened poverty and hunger in Nigeria. The opposition party members criticized the government's economic policies and its N500bn social welfare programme for vulnerable groups, arguing that Nigerians must have realized they made a mistake by voting the All Progressives Congress into power. Majority Leader Femi Gbajabiamila reacted that the government's fight against corruption, weakening of insurgency in the North-East, and the gradual recovery of the naira against the US dollar were enough testimonies of performance by the government. Minority Leader Leo Ogor, however, criticized the government for not implementing any significant economic reforms and criticized the methodology used to distribute the N500bn social welfare program. He also noted that Nigerians were not eating better food or having improved access to basic amenities. The opposition party leader, Gbajabiamila, defended the APC government's performance in its midterm scorecard, stating that the Buhari-led administration had done well in its efforts against insecurity, corruption, and poverty.
Nigeria is Better as One, Osinbajo Tells Secessionists
by Adetayo Olalekan
Nigerian Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has urged those advocating for secession to be part of a larger entity rather than a fraction. He emphasized that the country's greatness lies in its diversity and size, and that personal causes should not hinder the objectives of bringing the nation together. Osinbajo praised President Muhammadu Buhari for his commitment to ensuring unity and emphasized the importance of a security summit. The Arewa Consultative Forum, chaired by Senator Abubakar Girei and former Inspector-General of Police Ibrahim Coomassie, praised the Federal Government for its achievements in degrading insurgency in the North-East. The summit will provide practical solutions for sustainable peace and development in the country.
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has pledged to make the country self-sufficient in food production before leaving office. He spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bida-Minna Road construction in Niger State, promising to continue partnering with states that bring development to their people. Tinubu praised the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, for ensuring peace in his domain. Governor Umaru Bago praised the construction as a promise fulfilled, stating it was of paramount economic importance and a paradigm shift from the usual lip services. The Bida-Minna Road will create avenues for greater economic development and make Niger a reference point in Nigeria's infrastructure and socio-economic development.
President Muhammadu Buhari emphasized the unity and indivisibility of Nigeria, urging the Armed Forces to avoid politics and respect constituted authorities. He called on the military to evolve new ways of tackling internal security challenges and commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their commitment to democracy. Buhari urged the military to maintain loyalty and submit to civil authorities, and to subsume personal interests to national aspirations of peace, unity, and justice. He also urged the military to collaborate with the private sector for research and innovation. Over 600 cadets from the Army, Air Force, and Navy were commissioned as second lieutenants.
Nigerian developer population grows by 6%, hits 84,000 - Report
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
Google reports that in 2021, the number of professional developers in Nigeria greatly increased. It climbed by 6% to 84,000, whereas the increase on the African continent as a whole increased by 3.8% to 716,000 during the same time period. According to Google's research, "Average salary and pay for software developers rose, and more employees found full-time employment. The epidemic boosted the need for remote digital talent globally and opened up additional remote job options for African engineers.
JAMB has announced that pre-examination activities for the 2022 UTME will start late due to forces beyond its control. Nigerians can now earn up to $14,000- $17,000 from premium domain names, and Mama Dada set herself ablaze over her inability to pay back a loan.
he Nigerian National petroleum company Limited and UTM offshore Limited on Thursday , signed a heads of terms agreement for the construction of Nigerias' first indigenous 1.5 million tonnes per annum floating Liquefied Natural Gas project . UTM offshore ,a Nigerian marine and services group , had signed a memorandum of understanding with the African Export -import Bank in december 2021 to raise $2bn for the development of Nigerias' floating liquefied natural gas project. The statement stated that UTM had been studying and concetualising the develoment of an FLNGin Nigeria since 2020.
No Hiding Place for IPOB Members in Anambra- Obiano
by Okafor Tony
Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano, has affirmed that his government has fully complied with the decisions of the South East Governors regarding the prohibition of activities of the Indigenous People Biafra. Obiano stated that there would be no hiding place for mischief makers and those who would distort the peace in the state. He urged the people of Anambra to be vigilant and prioritized the security and welfare of the area. The governor also stated that the government is firmly in support of the restructuring agenda announced by the Governors Forum and encourages Ndi Anambra to articulate their thoughts on this issue.
Former Osun State High Court judge Justice Olamide Oloyede has expressed no regrets for writing a petition against Governor Rauf Aregbesola and his deputy, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori. Oloyede apologized to the governor and deputy for using inappropriate language in the petition, but defended her actions, stating she did not violate any constitutional section for discussing issues affecting the people of the state. She defended her actions in fidelity to her office and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, stating that the petition speaks for itself. Oloyede criticized those who believed the judiciary should only be seen and not heard, stating she did not belong to this class of people.
Punch Newspaper, Sunday, September 11, 2016, pg.10
NYSC crucial for raising public managers – Olaopa
by Gbenga Oloniniran
The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) Chairman, Prof Tunji Olaopa, has emphasised the importance of working with the National Youth Service Corps for the development of a new generation of public service managers. He emphasised the need for inter-generational conversation, mentoring, and education to create a new generation of leaders and public managers. Olaopa emphasised the importance of aligning national values and diversity elements with the merit system. The goal is to build a value-based civil service that is people-focused, professional, technology-enabled, entrepreneurial, and accountable for quality service. The FCSC and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development are seen as strategic partners, and an inter-agency public service orientation mentoring program will be developed to build upcoming youth as new generation public managers.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.12
Obi’s call for LP accounts audit not ignored – Spokesman
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis
The Labour Party in Nigeria has confirmed that its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has recommended a forensic audit of the party's accounts. The recommendation was prompted by allegations made by the National Treasurer, Oluchi Oparah, against the National Chairman, Julius Abure, for alleged N3.5bn raised from the sale of nomination forms and fundraising activities. Obi called for an audit of the party's account to clear the air, supported by 36 state chairmen of the Labour Party. However, one month after the recommendation was made, nothing was heard about the case again. The Labour Party Campaign Organisation Chief Spokesman, Yunusa Tanko, and the National Publicity Secretary of the LP, Obiora Ifoh, emphasized that Obi made reference to the audit of the campaign account and not the forensic audit for the Labour Party.
Ogoni Chiefs, residents flee community over cult attacks
by Dennis Naku
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Emeka Nwonyi, said he had ordered fresh deployment of operatives to Bodo City in Gokana Local Government Area of the state to forestall further security breaches. This came as a traditional ruler and some chiefs in the area fled the community following a fresh attack by suspected cultists, who invaded the place on Monday. Recall that two youths on surveillance duty at a pipeline belonging to Shell in the area were shot dead by the rampaging cultists days after an oil spill occurred from the Trans Niger Pipeline over a fortnight ago. Also on Monday, it was gathered that some dare-devil gunmen stormed the community and killed a yet-to-be-identified youth. The latest onslaught caused pandemonium as some residents, including chiefs, fled to safer towns for fear of being killed. Speaking with PUNCH Metro, the state CP, Emeka Nwonyi, said he had personally met with the chiefs and other stakeholders in the area and charted the way forward, even as he expressed surprise at the latest developments.
Ogun communities lament eight months erratic power supply
by Johnson Idowu & Adebutu Sobowale
Residents of Ajegunle, Hospital Road, and Igboji communities in Ogun State have been experiencing erratic power supply since February 2023, affecting businesses and leading to nearly closures. The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company spokesperson, Busolami Tunwase, stated that the low supply to the communities is due to the Transmission Company of Nigeria's low supply. Community leaders and House of Assembly member Ademola Adeniran have not yielded any positive results.
Ondo Govt Adopts Mentally Challenged Woman's Newborn
by Peter Dada
The Okitipupa Local Government Area in Ondo State has adopted a newborn baby from a mentally challenged woman found on the street. The woman, who claimed to have twins, was found with one of the babies taken away. The baby and mother were taken to the State Specialist Hospital in Okitipupa. The baby and mother are currently in the custody of the state's social workers. The Director of Child Development in the Ondo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Oluwaniyi Ogunleye, commended the efforts of security agents, social and local government workers who took care of the mother and newborn.
Women in Ondo State are calling on political parties to nominate female deputy governorship candidates ahead of the November 16 governorship elections. The Ondo State Women Group, which represents various women groups in the state, has issued a communique titled "Agitation for gender balance and inclusiveness." The women demand the nomination of women as deputy governorship candidates from all participating political parties and an increased budgetary allocation for the state Ministry of Women Affairs. They argue that using the Yoruba word "Odatiwa" for inclusiveness while confining women to the "other room" is contradictory and unacceptable.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled a meeting with all candidates for the November 26 governorship election in Ondo State for next Tuesday. The Chairman of the commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, stated that the electoral body would not transfer the Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Mr. Segun Agbaje, before the conduct of the election as being canvassed by some people in the state. The meeting will also be attended by security agencies, civil society organizations, and local and foreign observers registered by INEC.Aspirants expected at the meeting include Jimoh Ibrahim, Rotimi Akeredolu, Chief Olusola Oke, and Dr. Olu Agunloye of the Social Democratic Party. The commission is ready for the election and appeals to all aspirants to play by the rules. The commission has no plan to redeploy the Ondo REC, Mr. Segun Agbaje, who is one of the commission's best and is doing a wonderful job in the state.The commission has learned from the just-concluded elections in the United States of America, which were monitored by officials of the commission. The use of technology in terms of electronic voting is instructive, and Americans have absolute trust in the integrity of their electoral system. Nigerians should emulate this and have confidence in INEC.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, November 16, 2016, pg.11
one dead, three missing in Delta oil rig collapse.
by Opeoluwani Akintayo
one person has reportedly died while three others went missing after an oil rig, majestic near Ovhor, collapsed in Delta state on Tuesday. The PUNCH gathered that the swamp drilling rig, operated by a Nigerian oil firm ,Depthwize, collapsed in the early hours of tuesday. the rig was contracted by the seplat /Nigerian National petroleum company limited joint vventure when the incident occurred. The rig was in transit to its planned drilling location at Ovhor in Delta state when it collapsed.Our utmost priority will continue to be the safety and well being of all the affected personnel and their families.we will provide further details as our understanding of the incident develops. A Detailed investigation into the cause of the accident will follow.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 16, 2023, pg.10
Osun State Government has suspended the Rector of the Osun State Polytechnic, over alleged financial recklessness and abuse of office. The letter suspending Odetayo dated July 11 2023, a copy of which was obtained in Osogbo on Monday, “You are hereby suspended as the Rector of Osun State Polytechnic, the sequel to the strong allegations of financial recklessness,corruption, misappropriation of fund, abuse of office among others.
You are to proceed on suspension immediately, while the investigation into the allegations leveled against you commences soon.â€
Appointed the 6th substantive Rector of the polytechnic by the immediate past governor of the state, towards the twilight of his administration, Odetayo’s appointment was however reversed by Governor Ademola Adeleke, But the administration that suspended his appointment, on March 10 2023, through a letter by the state Head of Service, reappointed him for a four-year tenure. The government has announced the appointment of Mr Kehinde Alabi, as Acting Rector of the institution.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has accused Oba Saliu Adetunji, the Olubadan of Ibadan land, of not receiving his allowances for the past six months. The party's Director of Media, Research and Strategy, Dr. AbdulAzeez Olatunde, praised Olubadan for seeking legal action over the installation of 21 new kings by Governor Abiola Ajimobi. Olatunde stated that the monarch collected statutory allocations from the 11 council areas and the state government, stating that both sources had been remitting the money regularly. The APC also noted that the state government has paid all monarchs in the state up to June 2017 from the appropriated fund of the approved budget.
Parents, others lament malpractice in entrance exam
by Grace Edema
Some parents and educators have taken to the Facebook page of the Concerned Parents Educators forum to complain about the examination malpractice they witnessed during the National Common Entrance Examination.
The comments made references to the unethical conduct of the invigilators who were seen calling out answers to the children during the exam which took place on July 22.
The first anonymous post which generated over 500 comments read,
 “I’m pained in my body, soul, and spirit. I just got not-so-encouraging feedback from a parent in my school whose child was one of those who wrote the Lagos State Common Entrance Examination on Saturday.One of the invigilators called out answers to kids in the examination hall. Answers were not just called but our pupils were harassed and intimidated for not taking the answers. They were rushed, saying, “Why didn’t you write the answers when others were writing?â€
“Please why should this be? These are primary school kids for crying out loud.
Partner foreign airlines, NCAA tells local operators
by Funmilayo Fabunmi
Â
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has encouraged local airline operators to partner with their foreign counterparts to develop the country’s strengthen operations and the aviation industry.
The Managing Director of NCAA, Capt. Musa Nuhu, stated this while speaking at the 27th League of Aviation and Airports Correspondent Conference, titled ‘Aviation Industry: Changing Times, Changing Strategies’, in Lagos recently.
According to him, until Nigerian airlines embrace collaboration, they will continue to be more fragmented and less competitive with individual identities.
Capt. Nuhu, who was represented by the Director of Airworthiness Standard, Gbolahan Abatan, said despite the numerous challenges, Nigeria’s air transport was making tremendous progress. He said, “Synergy, collaboration, cooperation or merger is the rule of the game. I want to encourage Nigerian airlines to avoid I-want-to-do-it-alone as reflected in their lone-wolf operational tactic. While I want to appreciate our operators for a job well done in terms of spirit and impact, we urge airlines to partner with their willing foreign counterparts through code sharing in developing Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 02, 2023, pg.27
Dan Orbih, Chairman of the People's Democratic Party in Edo State, has criticized former House of Assembly member Oghuma Johnson for accusing him of using policemen to chase away All Progressives Congress members in Ogbona village during the governorship election. Oghuma alleged that many APC members were unable to vote in the village because the police allegedly chased them away. The development affected the performance of his party in the area. The APC chief said, “Orbih influenced the policemen in Ogbona. Many APC members were driven away while PDP members were busy thumb-printing. Even a retired commissioner of police is aware of this. As a party leader in the unit, I tried to contact other APC leaders. I could only watch from afar. This affected us in the area.â€Orbih dismissed the allegations, saying Oghuma was out to please Governor Adams Oshiomhole. He said, to a large extent, the election was peaceful in the local government area. Observers who visited the polling units saw that the election was free and fair. Orbih should find other means and ways to curry favours from his political masters rather than tell lies.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors and board of Trustees have backed efforts to end the crisis in the party. The party's National Caretaker Committee, led by Senator Ahmed Makarfi, will name members of its reconciliation committee on Monday. The committee will work with those nominated by the factional National Chairman of the PDP, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff. The crisis began after the party lost the 2015 presidential election and worsened in March this year when its attempt at holding a national convention was thwarted by party leaders. The two factional chairmen's desire to bring peace back to the main opposition party was applauded by the governors and other members of the caucus. The committee will discuss ways of moving the party forward and will be inaugurated on Monday next week. The PDP will use all legal means to get its mandate back from affected lawmakers, including taking back seats from former governor Joshua Dariye.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, September 06, 2016, pg.11
The National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended Ifeanyi Ubah and queried Senator Buruji Kashamu for alleged anti-party activities. Ubah was questioned for disparaging national officers and those conducting the Anambra State governorship primary. Kashamu, representing Ogun East in the Senate, was queried for his activities in the South-West zone of the party. Ubah chose not to answer the query, leading to his suspension for one month and referring the matter to the National Disciplinary Committee for further action. The party's spokesperson, Prince Dayo Adeyeye, stated that the matter had been referred to the party's disciplinary committee, which is expected to brief the party in two weeks. Ubah dismissed the allegation that he instigated the police against some PDP members in Ogun State, stating that he never reported any of these people to the police nor did he have course to instigate the police against them.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 22, 2017, pg.10
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has won all 13 chairmanship and 171 councillor slots in the local government election conducted by the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission. The election was held in all 13 Local Government Areas and 171 wards in the state. The PDP won all the 13 chairmanship seats and all the 171 councillor slots in the state. The election was conducted following the expiration of the tenure of the elected council chairmen. The election was the first to be conducted by the administration of Governor David Umahi. The PDP group urges Orbih’s coalition to embrace peace. The PDP has also been involved in various other news stories, such as gunmen killing 30 in a fresh Plateau attack, Senator-Mohammed-Ali-Ndume misleading Tinubu to relocate CBN departments, and the court granting bail to Obiano.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ebonyi State has won all 13 chairmanship and 171 councillor slots in the local government election conducted by the Ebonyi State Independent Electoral Commission. The election was held in all 13 Local Government Areas and 171 wards in the state. The PDP won all the 13 chairmanship seats and all the 171 councillor slots in the state. The election was conducted following the expiration of the tenure of the elected council chairmen. The election was the first to be conducted by the administration of Governor David Umahi. The PDP group urges Orbih’s coalition to embrace peace. The PDP has also been involved in various other news stories, such as gunmen killing 30 in a fresh Plateau attack, Senator-Mohammed-Ali-Ndume misleading Tinubu to relocate CBN departments, and the court granting bail to Obiano.
PDP, CLO Attack Buhari over Decision to Work from Home
by John Alechenu, Olusola Fabiyi & Adetayo Olalekan
The Peoples Democratic Party and the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) have criticised President Muhammdu Buhari's decision to work from home. Buhari was absent from a Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, and the Presidency blamed his absence on the Easter holiday. The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, stated that Buhari only decided to work from home on Wednesday and that he wanted to rest today. However, the PDP urged the Presidency to reveal Buhari's health status, citing the era of manipulation of his health status by a cabal within the Presidency. The CLO President, Igho Akeregha, criticised the APC government's fraudulent setup and called for Buhari to resign if his health could not sustain the pressure of work. He argued that hanging around office and trying to protect the cabal is not good for the country and that Buhari's ardent fight against corruption should be remembered.
PDP, LP mock APC as NEC ratifies Ganduje party chair
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & Dirisu Yakubu
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party have berated the ruling All Progressives Congress for appointing former governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, as the new National Chairman of the ruling party, saying the 73-year-old politician has corruption baggage hanging around his neck.
However, Ganduje, who emerged APC National Chairman on Thursday at the party’s National Executive Committee in Abuja, promised to promote unity among party members, carry out reforms and adhere to internal democracy under his watch.
At the APC NEC meeting, attended by President Bola Tinubu, a former Senate spokesman, Senator Ajibola Basiru, was also appointed as the APC National Secretary.
In his welcome address, Tinubu defended the legitimacy of the presidential poll.Â
He said, “Some people baited us but we honoured their wishes and yet coasted to victory. Yes, we are facing challenges in court and I say this is one of the freest and fairest election in the history of Nigeria. As a democrat, those who cannot accept the result of a free and fair election, do not deserve the joy of victory.
‘’We have worked hard, and we have received the trophy. Winning an election is the first part of the process. What is next is good governance and quality service delivery. We must promote unity, peace, and love among all organs of the party.â€
‘’You are the makers and drivers of the party. When we have all passengers inside the bus, the driver must not fall asleep. The brake must also work well. Party loyalty must exist.â€
PDP, LP mock APC as NEC ratifies Ganduje party chair
by Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis & D,irisu Yakubu
The opposition Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party have criticized the All Progressives Congress for appointing former Kano State governor Abdullahi Ganduje as its new National Chairman, citing his corruption baggage. The party's National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, was also appointed. Ganduje emphasized the need for victory in governorship elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states. The PDP criticized the APC for its reputation as a hub for corruption and thieves.
Senators Ali Modu Sheriff and Ahmed Makarfi, the leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), met in Abuja to discuss their intentions to end the party's perennial crises. The meeting was held at an undisclosed venue and was attended by some members from both factions. At the end of the meeting, representatives of each faction jointly addressed a press conference, stating that their leaders were working together to reposition the party. The meeting was held at a neutral venue away from each faction's offices. In a joint statement, the two leaders said that their meeting was without prejudice to all outstanding matters in court. They emphasized the need to heal the wounds and bring about a united, focused, and constructive opposition party that can bring sanity to the democratic process. Both Ojougboh and Obi refused to entertain questions after the briefing. The meeting was held without prejudice to all outstanding matters in court. briefing.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, September 21, 2016, pg.9
Perform or be sacked, Tinubu warns minister during retreat
by Stephen Angbulu
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his commitment to turn around Nigeria's fortunes for the benefit of all citizens, regardless of political, ethnic, or other affiliations. He called on ministers in his cabinet to deliver on their mandates and retain their seats during the 2023 Cabinet Retreat for Ministers, Presidential Aides, Permanent Secretaries, and top government functionaries. Tinubu stressed that a great Nigeria is possible and that a greater Nigeria will come under their commitment, guidance, and determination. He assured ministers that the country is one family in one house, and that achieving their mission requires collaboration and hope. Tinubu's Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, will closely monitor the performance in ministries, departments, and agencies across eight priority areas of his administration. These areas include food security, ending poverty, economic growth and job creation, access to capital, inclusivity, security, fairness and the rule of law, and anti-corruption stance. Tinubu urged attendees to take informed risks while remaining open to the directives of their supervisors. He urged them to be intellectually inquisitive and not be antagonistic to their supervisors. He also urged them to debate decisions and not be antagonistic to their supervisors.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, November 02, 2023, pg.7
Plateau, Benue, Niger IDPs hit 548,751, FG begins emergency intervention
by Okechukwu Nnodim
According to data compiled on Sunday from several local and international agencies, the expected number of internally displaced people in the states of Benue, Niger, and Plateau in 2023 alone has increased to around 548,751.On Sunday, it was also learned that the Special National Economic Livelihood Emergency Intervention has begun, and that the Federal Government, through the National Emergency Management Agency, has started distributing relief supplies.The ongoing struggle between farmers and herders is the cause of the violence in Plateau State. The lives of the IDPs have suffered a terrible toll as a result of the violence in Plateau State. Many IDPs have lost their homes, their means of subsistence, and their loved ones. Currently, they are residing in filthy, overcrowded camps. They don't have access to basic essentials either.
A popular native doctor in Anambra State and an indigene of Oba in the Idemili North Local Government Area of the state, Chinedu Nwangwu, popularly called “Akwa Okuko Tiwaraki†was on Sunday kidnapped by some yet-to-be-identified assailants. The native doctor, Triple P Hotel, late on Sunday. After which he was whisked away and his whereabouts were yet unknown. †a source said. The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident, adding that it happened around 11.30pm on Sunday.Â
Meanwhile, controversy has been trailing the whereabouts of the abducted native doctor as some of his fans, on Monday, claimed that he had been released.
They posted a video on social media, claiming that the native doctor had been released from captivity.
But when contacted by our correspondent, the state police spokesperson, Ikenga, maintained that there was no news of the return of the native doctor yet.
“I don’t have such information of his release before me. All I know is that operatives of the command have been ordered by the state Commissioner of Police, Aderemi Adeoye, to immediately go after the kidnappers.
“CP Adeoye has ordered that operatives go after his abductors and ensure his release,†Ikenga added.
The leadership of the Biafra Independence Movement and Movement for Actualisation of Sovereign State of Biafra said police raided its regional office along Awkuzu/ Otuocha Road, Ifitedunu in the Dunukofia Local Government Area of the Anambra State. The Senior Special Assistant to BIM-MASSOB on Media and Publicity, Chris Mocha, in a statement said, the policemen invaded their office, Mocha added that an 87-year-old member of the group, Chief Sylvester Dinyelu, 66-year-old Chief Beka Udemefuna and 53-year-old Amauche Ode, were also arrested by the police. When contacted, the state police spokesman, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, simply said, “Thank you for the information.â€Â But a senior police officer, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the development noting that the command was not ready to give any of such groups chance to continue terrorising the state for no reason whatsoever.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.8
Former Federal Commissioner for Works and Housing, Olufemi Okunnu, has criticized Nigeria's political elite for lacking a spirit of sacrifice. Okunnu argued that Nigerian political leaders lack the ability to produce good leadership, as they often take advantage of the masses instead of supporting them. He criticized the rising poverty, rising government costs, and lack of capital projects. Okunnu also lamented the state of insecurity in Nigeria, stating that kidnappings and trespassing by herdsmen are commonplace. He called on political leaders to defend the fundamental right of every citizen to move around the country without hindrance and to live or reside and work in any part of the country.
Presidency May Shun Senate over 2014 Confab Report
by Adetayo Olalekan
The Presidency may reject a Senate resolution requesting the 2014 National Conference report to the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly for urgent legislative action. The Senate resolved that deliberations on the conference's recommendations would be the way forward for the country and asked the presidency to send the conference report in the form of an Executive Bill. However, a competent source argued that the Presidency would not honour the resolution and should direct their request to former President Jonathan whose administration organized the conference. The source also reminded lawmakers that the ruling All Progressives Congress declined to participate in the conference in 2014 due to its belief that it was organized as 'food for the boys'. The Senate's request for the report followed submissions made by mostly APC senators during the debate on a motion titled 'The need for National Unity and Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria'.
Nations grow through the application of principles, the rule of law, common sense, and respect for citizens' rights and freedoms. The rule of law is an empirical and scientific approach to governance and problem-solving, focusing on the definition of citizens' rights, liberties, and duties. In the last 18 months, the Federal Government has selectively obeyed court orders, treating them with levity without untoward consequences. This is a violation of the law and promotes anarchy. The government should not justify the continued detention of persons ordered to be released by courts, but rather through brutish application of might. The emerging pattern of selective enforcement of laws should be about strengthening the path of the law, not looking at anyone's face. Investigations and prosecutions should be done without looking at the faces involved, and the law should not be based on loyalty, party affiliations, or blood relationships. The rule of law is not about national saviours or personal egos, but about defining the boundaries of citizens' rights, liberties, and duties.
The House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee on Disposal of Public Property summoned the Director-General of NIMASA, Bashir Jamoh; the Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Mallam Mohammed Koko; and the Comptroller General of Nigerian Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to defend the auctioning of some public properties by the agencies. The Chairman of the committee, who is also the House leader, Julius Ihonvbere, issued the summons at the resumed hearing of the panel. The committee was investigating the illegal auctioning of government properties by various ministries and agencies. Earlier, the panel rejected the presentation from the Nigerian Railway Corporation, which was represented by the liaison officer, Mr Pascal Nnolie, and that of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, represented by the Managing Director, Babalola Olatunji. Dismissing the submission from NRC, Ihonvbere said, The documents before me are those of 2015 and 2016 earlier submitted to the committee on public accounts of the House.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 08, 2023, pg.23
PUNCH celebrates 50th anniversary with weeklong activities
by Olaniyi Apanpa
Nigeria's PUNCH Nigeria Limited is celebrating its 50th anniversary with various events in Lagos. The company, which publishes Nigeria's leading newspaper titles, The PUNCH, Saturday PUNCH, Sunday PUNCH, and PUNCH Online, clocked 50 on March 18, 2023. The 50th anniversary coincides with the 40th anniversary of the passing of the founding Chairman, Chief James Olubunmi Aboderin. The company's Board of Directors Chairman, Angela Emuwa, praised PUNCH's impact on Nigeria for over five decades. The final event will be a staff party on March 9.
Reading will develop leadership skills in children
by Grace Edema
Laterna Ventures Limited's Corporate Affairs Manager, Nnaji Charles, has said early reading will help develop leadership skills in children, and the company is using World Book Day to encourage the culture of book reading among students.
Reading will develop leadership skills in children
by Grace Edema
Laterna Ventures Limited's Corporate Affairs Manager, Nnaji Charles, has said early reading will help develop leadership skills in children, and the company is using World Book Day to encourage the culture of book reading among students.
Reduce govt borrowing from CBN, W’Bank tells Nigeria
by Edidiong Ikpoto & Temitayo Jaiyeola
The World Bank Group has urged Nigeria to reduce government’s borrowing from the Central Bank if it wants to reduce the inflationary pressure on the economy. World Bank’s Lead Economist for Nigeria, Alex Sienaert, In his keynote presentation, Sienaert commended the government over its recent economic reforms, He said, “The whole agenda of tackling inflation is obviously a huge one.Â
“All of these things increase the money supply and reducing that will be helpful to reduce inflation, and then replacing imports with FX restrictions with tariffs.â€
According to him, the fact that petrol price had significantly increased created pressure on the economy.
He added that a variety of solutions would have to be devised in order to mobilise more revenue a way that spending would be increased to tackle the real priorities in the country
Repurposing your old devices to create a smart home
by www.popsci.com
Old gadgets can be turned into alarm clocks, security cameras, e readers, radios, jukeboxes, media libraries, and word processors. Recycling options are available to ensure the electronics and materials are disposed of in a way that's kind to the environment.
Residents face tough times on deplorable Ogun road
by Gbenga Oloniniran
Magboro residents in Ogun State are frustrated by the poor condition of the road linking various communities to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The Chairman of the Accord/Charity Community Development Association in Makogi, Pastor Kehinde Solomon, has appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to repair the roads. The road's deplorable state has caused hardship for commuters and has led to some commercial motorcyclists avoiding the area during rainy periods.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.5
Residents flee Anambra communities as NAF bombs bandits' hideouts
by Ikenna Obianeri
Residents in the Osumoghu community in Anambra State are living in fear following air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force. The airstrikes were conducted following credible intelligence reports that suspected Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) fighters had planned to unleash mayhem on residents. IPOB debunked NAF's claims, claiming the military bombed innocent civilians in the affected areas. The Transitional Chairman of the Nnewi South LGA has not responded to calls and messages.
Responsive goverance structure crucial for PR success-NIPR.
by Henry Falaiye
The president and chairman and , governing council of the Nigerian institute of public Relations, Mallam Mukhtar sirajo,has emphasised the significance of a responsive goverance structure in achieving success in the field of public relations. sirajo, said this in commemoration of the 2023 World PR day celebrations. he restated that the Nigerian institute of public relations remained dedicated to advocating for trust, truth, transparency through several mechanisms and platforms. He said that week-long operation would start from APapa port complex down to Lilypond .Apapa tyo tin -can First to second gates and kirikiri lighter terminal one and two.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of delaying the restructuring of the county. The party alleged that the pronouncements of some APC leaders in the past were indications that the party was not interested in restructuring. The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Dayo Adeyeye, stated that the committee set up by the party on restructuring and headed by Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, was an afterthought. Adeyeye noted that the National Chairman of the APC, John Odigie-Oyegun, and El-Rufai said on national television that their party was not interested in restructuring. He said that the setting up of a committee was a delay tactic meant to kill the demand for restructuring, and they were not interested. Adeyeye stated that the APC is employing delay tactics to kill the issue of restructuring and it is a shame on them. The party will not participate in the hearing because the APC has no genuine interest in restructuring the country.
Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State has stated that the state remains peaceful despite the recent killings. He stated that the state is ready to host a national event to prove the peaceful nature of the state to the world. Wike inaugurated the Local Organising Committee for the 2016 Nigerian Bar Association conference at the Government House in Port Harcourt. He explained that business interests were flourishing in the state due to its calm atmosphere. The state will host the Peoples Democratic Party's national convention in May, the NBA national conference in August, and the Federal High Court Legal Year celebration in September. He expressed optimism that such events would attract thousands of visitors to the state.Wike charged members of the Local Organising Committee to ensure the 2016 NBA conference turned out to be the best in the association's history. He also told the members of the LOC to put in their best in the interest of the law profession and the state. The Alternate Chairman and Attorney General of Rivers, Mr. Emmanuel Aguma (SAN), said that the main organizing committee and nine sub-committees had been programmed to deliver a historic national conference.
S'West govs, monarchs, Others call for restructuring at APC hearing
by Adetoyebi Olufemi
At the All Progressives Congress' South-West Zonal public hearing on true federalism in Ibadan, some South-West governors and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, backed the call for restructuring of Nigeria. Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, argued that the ongoing call for restructuring indicates a need to review the current governance system, which gives more powers to the central government. He suggested that local governments should be subjected to the state, with a review of the revenue allocation formula in favor of states. Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, emphasized the importance of consenting parties in deciding how they wish to live together or be governed. Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, supported restructuring, aligning with the Yoruba Summit's call for a return to regional systems. Alaafin of Oyo argued that Nigeria must be restructured to avoid a break-up like the one experienced in the old Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, September 19, 2017, pg.8
S'West govs, monarchs, Others call for restructuring at APC hearing
by Adetoyebi Olufemi
At the All Progressives Congress' South-West Zonal public hearing on true federalism in Ibadan, some South-West governors and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, backed the call for restructuring of Nigeria. Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, argued that the ongoing call for restructuring indicates a need to review the current governance system, which gives more powers to the central government. He suggested that local governments should be subjected to the state, with a review of the revenue allocation formula in favor of states. Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, emphasized the importance of consenting parties in deciding how they wish to live together or be governed. Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, supported restructuring, aligning with the Yoruba Summit's call for a return to regional systems. Alaafin of Oyo argued that Nigeria must be restructured to avoid a break-up like the one experienced in the old Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, September 19, 2017, pg.8
S'West govs, monarchs, Others call for restructuring at APC hearing
by Adetoyebi Olufemi
At the All Progressives Congress' South-West Zonal public hearing on true federalism in Ibadan, some South-West governors and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, backed the call for restructuring of Nigeria. Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, argued that the ongoing call for restructuring indicates a need to review the current governance system, which gives more powers to the central government. He suggested that local governments should be subjected to the state, with a review of the revenue allocation formula in favor of states. Ogun State Governor, Ibikunle Amosun, emphasized the importance of consenting parties in deciding how they wish to live together or be governed. Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, supported restructuring, aligning with the Yoruba Summit's call for a return to regional systems. Alaafin of Oyo argued that Nigeria must be restructured to avoid a break-up like the one experienced in the old Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, September 19, 2017, pg.8
Saraki, El-Rufai Instigated Buhari not to Pick me as VP- Tinubu
by Odebode Niyi, Adepegba Adelani, Oruba Ifeanyi & Hanafi Afis
National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has accused Senate President Bukola Saraki and Kaduna State Governor Mallam Nasir el-Rufai of working against the plan to make him President Muhammadu Buhari's running mate in the 2015 presidential election. Tinubu claimed that Saraki, El-Rufai, and other stalwarts of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) defected to the APC in the build-up to the elections, instigating Buhari and some APC chieftains not to pick him as the would-be Vice-President. He claimed that the party members' arguments were not genuine and that El-Rufai had the intention to ensure the emergence of Pastor Tunde Bakare as Buhari's running mate. Tinubu also claimed that some senators and governors defected from the PDP to the APC met with him on the eve of the primaries to know if there was an agreement between him and Buhari to run together. He argued that the support given was fundamental to Buhari clinching the party nomination.
Schools no longer safe for our children, PTA laments.
by Solomon Odeniyi
The Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria has decried the spate of bullying, abduction, assault and murder of school children in different parts of the country. On June 19, 2021, a 14-year-old pupil of Premiere Academy, Abuja, Karen-Happuch Akpagher, was allegedly raped in her school and a condom was left in her private part. On January 21, a senior pupil of Elkanemi College of Islamic Theology, Maiduguri, slit the throat of Jubril Mato, while in Kano, Hanifa Abubakar was allegedly kidnapped and killed by the principal of her school. Schoolchildren have also become targets of terrorists and kidnappers.
Senate grills service chiefs today over insecurity
by Tope Omogbolagun
The Senate in Nigeria will grill service chiefs on Wednesday and Thursday over rising insecurity, as reported by Senator Tokunbo Abiru. The Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions has postponed the interface between the two committees from Tuesday to Friday. The increase in killings and kidnappings has caused panic in the country. The Senate has decided to postpone the appearance of the Central Bank Governor (CBN) to Friday due to the Service Chiefs' scheduled appearance. The committee gathered in Room 211 for the planned interface, but decided to postpone it to Friday. The Senate also held closed-door sessions on the death of former Yobe State Governor Bukar Ibrahim, raising a nine-man delegation to pay a condolence visit to the governor and his family.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.10
Senate grills service chiefs today over insecurity
by Tope Omogbolagun
The Senate in Nigeria will grill service chiefs on Wednesday and Thursday over rising insecurity, as reported by Senator Tokunbo Abiru. The Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions has postponed the interface between the two committees from Tuesday to Friday. The increase in killings and kidnappings has caused panic in the country. The Senate has decided to postpone the appearance of the Central Bank Governor (CBN) to Friday due to the Service Chiefs' scheduled appearance. The committee gathered in Room 211 for the planned interface, but decided to postpone it to Friday. The Senate also held closed-door sessions on the death of former Yobe State Governor Bukar Ibrahim, raising a nine-man delegation to pay a condolence visit to the governor and his family.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 07, 2024, pg.10
Former senator Clever Ikisipo has praised President Muhammadu Buhari's development strides in the Niger Delta, particularly in Bayelsa State. Ikisipo, a kinsman of former President Goodluck Jonathan, stated that if the region had been used properly, Bayelsa East would have become a "small Dubai." He urged the court to probe the $3.4bn IMF loan taken by Buhari and the S'Court to dismiss an appeal seeking to nullify Buhari and Tinubu's tenures. Ikisipo also highlighted the controversies surrounding the Grammy 2024 awards, the death of veteran actor Jimi Solanke, and the enforcement of a ban on alcoholic drinks in sachets. The Punch Newspaper also covered various news topics, including protests, the high cost of food and living, the rescued Ekiti pupils, and the upcoming AFCON final. The newspaper also covered breaking news, such as the influx of Nigerians to the United States and the upcoming 2024 Grammy Awards.k Jonathan.
The Federal Government has ordered power distribution companies to deploy customer engagement platforms within the next three months, beginning from September 1, 2023. The directive meant the Discos must install the facilities before January 2024. It gave the order through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, and explained that the directive became vital due to the failure of Discos in resolving the complaints of power users. The directive was contained in a document from NERC, with order number: NERC/2023/006, obtained by The PUNCH in Abuja on Thursday, and titled, ‘Order on deployment of customer engagement platforms’.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 08, 2023, pg.19
Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, deputy of the sacked National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ali Modu Sheriff, and other members of the party have defected to the All Progressives Congress in Delta State. Ojougboh claimed that the Ahmed Markafi-led national leadership had refused to reach out to them since the Supreme Court judgment ousted the Sheriff faction. The defectors were received by the National Vice Chairman of the APC, Mr. Hilliard Eta, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor, Dr. Ibe Kachukwu, and the state chairman of the party, Mr. Jones Erue. Former factional chairman of the PDP in the state, Mr. Austin Ogbaburhon, said the defectors rejected offers from other political parties before agreeing to join the APC.
Sheriff: Jonathan's Loyalists, Senators Disagree with PDP Governors, BOT
by Olusola Fabiyi & Aborishade Sunday
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) crisis has deteriorated as ex-ministers, senators, Board of Trustees members, and governors disagree on the tenure of new National Chairman, Senator Modu Sheriff. A joint meeting at the Ondo State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja resolved that Sheriff should spend three months in office, followed by organizing a national convention to elect a new chairman. The meeting was attended by the party’s Governors’ Forum, the National Caucus, and the National Assembly caucus. The National Working Committee was represented by Sheriff, National Secretary, National Organising Secretary, and National Publicity Secretary. The PDP Governors’ Forum, also the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko and Jibrin, expressed optimism that the crisis would be resolved within three months. However, former ministers from 1999 to 2015 insisted that Sheriff must leave, stating that the forum rejected Sheriff as PDP chairman due to his illegitimacy and commended the BoT for the rejection.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 24, 2016, pg.10
Shittu Emerges Chair of Buhari, Osinbajo Support Group
by George Angel
The Muhammadu Buhari, Osinbajo Dynamic Support Group has appointed Minister of Communications Adebayo Shittu as the chairman of its board of trustees. Shittu's appointment marks the end of a rigorous search for a mentor, leader, and father who believes in the group's principal ideology of incorruptibility, patriotism, dedication, and credibility. His management acumen, intelligence, vision, dedication, patriotism, and humility have yielded transformative dividends in the Nigerian economy. Shittu praised the President's commitment to change and the tangible results of his policies.
Punch Newspaper, Saturday, September 30, 2017, pg.41
You are about to install a new app or shoot more video on your smartphone, but then a message pops up on the screen saying, “There is not enough available storage.†If you have not yet run into this common problem, you likely will do so. At least, there are a few things you can do to free up more storage space on your phone or tablet. From the “duh†department, go through your phone and uninstall apps, games, and other media you no longer use. Keep in mind that if you bought the content from an app store, even if you delete it from your device, you can likely reinstall it at any time at no charge. If your phone accepts them, you can purchase inexpensive microSD memory cards, which slide into the side or back of the phone (usually near the SIM card). This can double, triple, or quadruple your phone’s storage for a loose change in your pocket (seriously, you can pick up a 16GB card for $10 these days). The new Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge support microSD cards up to 200GB. Rather than downloading media, such as movies and music, it’ll help you save space to simply stream it, especially if you consider yourself likely to have an Internet connection wherever you go.
The Lagos state first Generation Heritage College Association (LAFGHECA) and the Golden Flower Global Concept Limited,have said sporting activities will eliminate cybercrime among secondary school students.The founder of LAFGHECA,Mr otunba olapeju,said if children are engaged in sport,they would think less of crime. Also sports competition is aimed at not only discovering great sporting talents but also in healing emotional wounds amoungst peers in order not to see themselves as enemies.
State police: Governors to appoint police commissioners, bill lists conditions for CPs sacking
by Dirisu Yakubu, Gift Habib & Nathaniel Shaibu
A bill has been introduced to amend the 1999 Nigerian Constitution to allow governors to appoint state commissioners of police. The amendment aims to decentralise the Nigeria Police Force, which has struggled to address the country's security crisis. The bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and 14 others, puts the police on the concurrent list, allowing states to have state-controlled policing. Key innovations include transferring police from the exclusive legislative list to the concurrent list, introducing a comprehensive framework for cohesion and accountability, and providing rigorous safeguards to prevent unwarranted interference by federal police in state police affairs. The bill also acknowledges the financial challenges faced by state police and requires the federal government to provide grants or aid, subject to the approval of the National Assembly.The proposed legislation alters Section 214 of the Constitution to distinguish between federal and state police, stating that federal police maintain public security and preserve public order. They cannot interfere with state police operations or internal security affairs, except to contain serious threats. Supporters argue that military involvement is not necessary.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, February 21, 2024, pg.7
Stock investors demand reform as capital flight persists
by Oluwakemi Abimbola
The Nigerian capital market closed on a positive note in 2022, posting 19.98 percent growth last year and 8.776 percent this year. However, that upswing was not sustained in the following weeks. The Tinubu administration can change this narrative by using fiscal incentives to attract more companies to list on the Nigerian Exchange. Additionally, the FX issue is getting too much, and policies can be put in place to ensure that demand is met.
Subsidy pain: Labour talks tough, ASUU, protesters condemn relief plans
by Grace Edema, Edidiong Ikpoto, Henry Falaye, & Solomon Odeniyi
The groaning occasioned by the removal of the fuel subsidy grew louder on Monday as the Nigerian Labour Congress said it was ready to fight the economic pains and hardship caused by the Federal Government’s decision.University workers under the aegis of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, the University of Lagos chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, The varsity unions decried the situation, saying the subsidy was ’unintelligently removed. ’The National Assistant Secretary, Chris Onyeka,“We are going to give the Federal Government an ultimatum. But they have refused to make amends. Let them prepare themselves because we are preparing. We are ready to fight back, †he said, The product currently sells for between N568 and N617 per litre.
Subsidy talks: Labour shuns FG, begins protests as oil workers down tools
by Tunde Oyekola, Israel Bulus, Dirisu Yakubu & Abiodun Sanusi
The two-day meeting between the Federal Government and the organised labour ended in a deadlock on Tuesday, with the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress leaders vowing to begin a nationwide protest against the removal of fuel subsidy.
This came as oil workers under the aegis of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association began an indefinite strike on Tuesday, citing inhumane treatment by the management of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, an agency of the Federal Government.
The strike and planned protest by the organised labour slated for Wednesday (today) over the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government may shut down the country and paralyse the economy.
Oil workers had earlier on Tuesday staged a protest and shut down the commission’s office in Lagos, while also vowing to shut down the agency’s offices nationwide.Â
Speaking on the planned strike on Tuesday, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the organised labour had no reason to suspend the planned national protests and strike.
Ajaero spoke a few hours after another round of meeting of the Presidential Steering Committee on Palliatives held at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, deadlocked.
Subsidy: NLC Shuns FG meeting, electricity workers back strike
by the news
The Nigerial Labour Congress on Sunday shunned a meeting called by the Federal Government to siscuss the subsidy revoval and athe attendatnt hike in fuel pump prices across the country.Â
This is as the electrictity worlkers vowed to join the stariked and plunge the nation into a blackout in protest against the removeal of fuel subsidy by Bola Tinubu administration.
Following the breakdown of talks, the congress resolved at its NEC meeting held on Friday to embark on a nationwidee strike.
Aremu in a statement issued in IIorin on Sunday, emphasized the imperative of policy dislogue and discussions between the government and relefvant stakeholders on the vexed issue of deregulation.
He expressed optimism that through the exchange of facts negotiations and compromises, both the government and labour would find common ground for the inevitable reform of the petroleum downstream sector which he said the sector uninon had been pushing for years.
Suspended NIA DG, Oke Admits Jonathan Ordered Release of $289m
by Adetayo Olalekan, Akinkuotu Eniola & Leke Baiyewu
Nigeria's suspended Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Ayodele Oke, has met with Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and admitted to receiving $289,202,382 on the orders of former President Goodluck Jonathan in February 2015. The transaction was known as an intervention fund for national security or special services to fight insurgency during the six weeks between the Presidential/National Assembly elections and the polls held on March 28, 2015. The NIA has gathered documents to support his claim and will submit memos and other documents as evidence. The National Petroleum Investment Management Service raised a memo on February 25, 2015, asking the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to release $289,202,382 to the NIA in cash. The NIA will also submit memos and other documents as evidence. The suspended NIA boss must answer why the apartment where the money was kept was registered in the name of his wife, Mrs. Folasade Oke.
Tek Experts is set to open a new security operations centre under its cybersecurity business, Cytek, in Lagos.
The firm noted that the center, which would be backed by Microsoft’s AI-enabled Sentinel platform, would deliver a full suite of cybersecurity solutions, and provide round-the-clock protection for government entities and businesses operating in Nigeria and West Africa.According to the firm in a statement, It said by leveraging Microsoft’s AI-powered technology, “Nigeria has always been a strategically important market for us. We are excited to establish a presence in Lagos. Follow the sun cybersecurity services, all powered by Microsoft’s world-class AI technology. We are delighted to provide Nigeria’s technology.Â
Microsoft Country Manager, Nigeria, and Ghana, Ola Williams, added, said: “We actively seek opportunities to help clients gain easier access to our technology, which is why we are excited that Tek is establishing their SOC on Microsoft technology.
He said Microsoft would work closely Tek Experts to protect businesses and organisations in Nigeria against the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.
Telcos plan different tariffs for calls, data in states
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
Nigerian telecommunication firms are proposing that citizens will soon pay different prices for calls, data, SMS, and other telecommunication services in different states. The move aims to prevent multiple taxation and business environments across states. The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria, Gbenga Adebayo, stated that the Nigerian Communications Commission is aware of this demand and will implement the move if approved.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 29, 2023, pg.21
Telecoms investment tumbles to nine-year low, says NBS report
by Temitayo Jaiyeola
The National Bureau of Statistics reported that investment into the telecommunications sector has dropped to a nine-year low, with investments in the form of foreign direct investment and foreign portfolio investments dropping from $114.43m in 2018 to $107.46m in 2021. Capital importation data for 2021 showed that the sector did not attract any investment in the last quarter of the year. The annual outflow of capital is estimated at $22.1bn. A source in the Association of Licensed Telecommunication Operators of Nigeria said the fall in capital inflows was due to the scarcity of foreign exchange and inconsistent government policy. The lack of forex, end-user certificates, and unstable macroeconomic conditions are threatening the success of the telecoms industry in Nigeria.
A peace parley was planned for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to resolve internal wrangling within the party. However, the meeting ended in a fiasco, with many leaders leaving without achieving their goals. The meeting was attended by leaders from various states, including Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Oyo, and Osun states. The meeting was an opportunity for the Alhaji Ahmed Makarfi-led and Senator Alli-Modu Sherif factions to meet formally for the first time in three months. However, the meeting turned out to be a turning point, with members of the party embracing each other and engaging in a shouting match. The accreditation exercise announced by Dr. Eddy Olafeso, the National Vice Chairman of the party in the South West, led to the situation becoming rowdy. Members of the Sheriff's faction were denied accreditation, and they mobilized themselves to a hotel. Despite security personnel manhandling the meeting, a few members managed to enter the main venue, leading to a chaotic situation.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 10, 2016, pg.31
President Bola Tinubu has appointed new Directors-General for the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Department of State Services (DSS) following the resignations of the previous heads. Mohammed Mohammed is the new NIA Director-General, succeeding Ahmed Abubakar, who resigned on Saturday. Adeola Ajayi replaces Yusuf Bichi as the new DSS Director-General. Mohammed, a long-time NIA member, has served in various roles including as head of the Nigerian mission to Libya, while Ajayi, who has worked in multiple states and risen through the ranks, was previously an Assistant Director-General of the DSS. President Tinubu expects the new leaders to improve the agencies' performance and enhance collaboration with other security bodies. He also expressed gratitude to the outgoing directors for their service.
The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has praised Asiwaju Bola Tinubu for his contribution to the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari. The party's Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy, Kunle Oyatomi, stated that the victory occasioned by Tinubu's support was unparalleled in Nigeria's history. The party's statement also emphasized the strategic masterstroke of Tinubu's effort and political influence, which led to the removal of a sitting Federal Government through a free and fair election. Tinubu's contribution in making Buhari president today is unparalleled in the history of political alliances in Nigeria. The party's Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy, Kunle Oyatomi, also praised Tinubu's efforts and political influence. The Punch Newspaper's WhatsApp channel offers real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. The newspaper also covers various topics such as bulletproof vehicles, forex, King Charles, Kwara, and the national power grid.
Tinubu decorates service chiefs, generals pledge armed forces loyalty
by Stephen Angbulu
The newly-appointed and confirmed Service Chiefs, pledged the loyalty of the Nigerian Armed Forces to the government, saying, “We will go wherever we are ordered, whether by air, sea or land. We will ensure that Nigeria is projected in good light.†They made the pledge shortly after being decorated with their new ranks by President Bola Tinubu at the ceremony that took place at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The new Service Chiefs, whose nominations were confirmed by the Senate on July 13, are the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, and Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. Speaking on their behalf after being decorated, the CDS, Musa, expressed their commitment to safeguarding the security and defence of the nation in their respective positions. “Our appointment is a clear manifestation of the confidence reposed in us and recognition of our humble abilities to deliver for our dear nation. We pledge to carry out our duties with utmost dedication and full loyalty,†he said.
TINUBU EMERGES ECOWAS CHAIR, RALLIES MEMBERS AGAINST COUPS
by Stephen Angbulu
President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian leader called on ECOWAS to “stand firm on democracy, †declaring that, concerted actions. He called for collective action from member-states, pledging that under his leadership, frameworks would be harmonised to actualise the dreams of ECOWAS. Revealed this in a statement he signed on Sunday titled, ’ According to the statement, who accepted the honour on behalf of Nigeria, He also warned on terrorism and the emerging pattern of coup detat in west africa had reached alarming levels and demanded urgent concerted actions
The Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has praised the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, for making the impossible happen by ensuring that opposition parties successfully merged for the first time in Nigeria's history. Fashola said that Nigeria was falling apart under former President Goodluck Jonathan, and that Tinubu steered the country away from the course of destruction. He praised Tinubu's courage, passion, and foresight in reaching across and forming a partnership to save Nigerians and ourselves. Fashola added that the merger was a victory that the impossible had become not only probable but possible due to Asiwaju's self-confidence and ability to mobilize people and materials behind an idea. The minister also highlighted the importance of staying informed and ahead of the curve by following The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. The latest news includes the full list of fixtures for AFCON 2023, Nigeria's returnees in Abuja, and the return of 300 stranded Europe-bound Nigerians from Libya.
President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Zaccheus Adedeji, as the new Acting Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service. This announcement coincides with the impending commencement of terminal leave for the former chairman, Muhammed Nami. The President has instructed the former FIRS Chairman, Mr Muhammad Nami, who had been in office since December 2019, to promptly begin a three-month pre-retirement leave, as stipulated by Public Service Rule (PSR) 120243. This leave will ultimately result in his retirement from service on December 8, 2023. He said Adedeji is appointed in acting capacity for a 90-day period before his subsequent confirmation as the substantive Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service for a term of four (4) years in the first instance. Adedeji, previously serving as the Special Adviser to the President on Internal Revenue, has now assumed the role of acting chairman at FIRS. He is a first-class graduate in accounting from the Obafemi Awolowo University and highly skilled accountant with deep expertise in corporate taxation and the advancement of public finance.
Punch Newspaper, Friday, September 15, 2023, pg.18
Tinubu sets 30-day tax reform target, UI student makes panel
by Deborah Tolu-Kolawole
President Bola Tinubu has set a 30-day tax reform target and aims to break the cycle of overreliance on borrowing for public spending and debt servicing. He inaugurated the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, in Abuja. The committee aims to transform the tax system for sustainable development and achieve a minimum 18% tax-to-GDP ratio within three years. The committee is expected to deliver quick reforms within 30 days, with critical measures recommended within six months and full implementation within one calendar year. Tinubu urged the committee to improve Nigeria's revenue profile and business environment, directing it to achieve its one-year mandate in fiscal governance, tax reforms, and growth facilitation. He directed government ministries and departments to cooperate fully with the committee, stressing that failure would be an excuse for failure. The committee members, drawn from public and private sectors, are accomplished individuals with a proven track record in revenue transformation.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 09, 2023, pg.20
President Bola Tinubu, “With the signing of the constitutional amendment bill, †a statement signed by the State House Director of Information, The statement was titled, as amended, 2023’ presented by the outgoing 9th National Assembly, While signing the amendment bill into law, Tinubu pledged his administration’s dedication to strengthening the judiciary, ensuring the rule of law, and empowering judicial officers to execute their responsibilities effectively..Â
The new law extends the retirement age of high court judges from 65 to 70 years
President Bola Tinu charged the 45 newly inaugurated Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to prioritise the interests and welfare of the entire nation and its diverse population, above any regional or state-specific considerations. Speaking at the inauguration of new members of the Federal Executive Council at the State House Conference Centre, the President underscored the immense responsibility the ministers now bear in shaping policies that will significantly influence the lives of hundreds of millions of Nigerians. The President also reminded the new ministers that they can not disappoint Nigerians, who expect them to serve with integrity, dignity and competence to actualise the Renewed Hope manifesto of the administration—failing which he will not hesitate to take necessary remedial measures. He further affirmed that the newly appointed ministers were selected based on their track records of excellence in both the public and private sectors, noting their effective representation of the rich diversity present within Nigeria. The event was witnessed by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, among other dignitaries.
Tinubu's economic policy hurting masses - NULGE president
by Adeyinka Adedipe
The National President of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, Ambali Olatunji, has chided President Bola Tinubu for his economic policy, which he said is hurting the masses. Olatunji stated this in Benin, the Edo State capital, during the opening session of a two-day National Youth Conference organised by the union. He also berated the President for running an overly bloated cabinet, comprising ministers and a retinue of aides.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.8
Tinubu's economic policy hurting masses - NULGE president
by Adeyinka Adedipe
The National President of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, Ambali Olatunji, has chided President Bola Tinubu for his economic policy, which he said is hurting the masses. Olatunji stated this in Benin, the Edo State capital, during the opening session of a two-day National Youth Conference organised by the union. He also berated the President for running an overly bloated cabinet, comprising ministers and a retinue of aides.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.8
Tinubu, Obasanjo, world leaders mourn Namibian president
by Stephen Angbulu, Gbenga Oloniniran, Taiwo Bankole & Agency Report
President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the government and people of Namibia over the passing of their president, Hage Geingob. Geingob died in the early hours of Sunday in a hospital in the capital city of Windhoek, Namibia’s presidential office said in a statement. The 82-year-old, who was serving his second term as president, revealed last month that he was receiving treatment for cancer. Tributes for the 82-year-old statesman poured in from African leaders who saw him as a hero of democracy. Also, former President Olusegun Obasanjo described the late Geingob as “a patriot and a veteran of Namibia’s independence struggle who served in top political positions since independence in 1990.â€Â Also, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, in a post on X, said, “Today, South Africa joins the people of our sister state Namibia in mourning the passing of a leader, patriot, and friend. AFP also reports that United States President Joe Biden, hailed the late president as “a fearless leader, fighting for independence, overseeing the drafting of the new nation’s constitution, and serving his country twice as prime minister and finally as president.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, and the party chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, have been in a heated debate. Tinubu called for the resignation of Odigie-Oyegun, who was involved in the party's governorship primary in Ondo State. Odigie-Oyegun, who lost his ward to the Peoples Democratic Party in the election, refused to take issue with Tinubu, who he held in high esteem. Odigie-Oyegun's meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari revealed a difference of opinion between the two, but he defended his decision not to resign. Odigie-Oyegun denied being behind the protests against Tinubu but promised to investigate the matter. He said all the events in the party's primary election in Ondo State were contained in the report of the chairman of the primary committee. He said that the party would only consider a change of mind if the result is generating controversy.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, October 05, 2016, pg.7
The Defence Headquarters has reported that troops have killed 36 terrorists and arrested 143 criminals in the last two weeks, while also rescuing 140 kidnapped citizens across Nigeria. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, disclosed this during the biweekly briefing of the military in Abuja on Thursday. Troops of Operation Safe Haven recovered three AK-47 rifles, three Dane guns, one locally-fabricated pistol, one locally-made gun, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special, one cartridge, three mobile phones, a piece of camouflage, and a jackknife. Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke recovered one pistol, 40 rounds of 7.62mm special, four rounds of 7.62mm NATO, two G3 magazines, one vehicle, one motorcycle, one mobile phone, and a pair of black boots. Additionally, troops neutralized one terrorist, arrested 13 suspects, and rescued nine kidnapped hostages. Troops of Operation Hadarin Daji recovered one AK47 rifle, four AK47 rifle magazines, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, one motorcycle, and 80 livestock. 20 kidnapped hostages were freed by troops of Operation Hadarin Daji. The military also arrested 15 oil thieves and recovered the sum of N3.17m in the Niger Delta region. Troops also destroyed 61 dugout pits, 32 wooden boats, 87 storage tanks, one speedboat, 32 cooking ovens, three outboard engines, one generator, two pumping machines, and 36 illegal refining sites. The recovered items, arrested suspects, and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authorities for further action.
Troops rescue nine kidnap victims, kill 10 bandits
by Samuel Bolaji
The army in Zamfara State has rescued nine kidnapped individuals from Sokoto State. They launched an offensive ambush operation, neutralizing 10 bandits and capturing two. The troops recovered six AK 47 rifles, one PKT machine gun, five magazines, 20 rounds of 7.62MM special ammunition, three mobile phones, two solar panels, and one sewing machine. The rescued victims were handed over to the appropriate authority to reunite them with their families.
Men of the Bauchi State Police Command have arrested two men who allegedly specialise in snatching motorcycles from their owners in the Gudum Hausawa area of the state.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Bauchi on Sunday.
Wakil said the suspects’ mode of operation was to ask commercial motorcyclists to take them to a particular destination and while on their way, they would attack them and snatch their motorcycles.
He said, “On July 27, 2023, around 9pm, the command’s detectives acted on credible intelligence and arrested two suspected motorcycle snatchers who specialise in beating up okada riders and stealing their motorcycles.Â
“According to the report, on the same day around 8.30pm, one Mustapha Adam of Anguwan Mahaukata and Jafar Lawan of Gudun Hausawa area, Bauchi disguised as passengers and engaged an okada man, one Kabiru Muhammadu of Magaji Quarters, Bauchi at the Central Market to take them to the old airport area.
“On reaching the Wikki Oil area, they brought out a trailer-wheel spanner and hit him on his head. He sustained an injury on his head and fell unconscious.
Men of the Bauchi State Police Command have arrested two men who allegedly specialise in snatching motorcycles from their owners in the Gudum Hausawa area of the state.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Ahmed Wakil, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Bauchi on Sunday.
Wakil said the suspects’ mode of operation was to ask commercial motorcyclists to take them to a particular destination and while on their way, they would attack them and snatch their motorcycles.
He said, “On July 27, 2023, around 9pm, the command’s detectives acted on credible intelligence and arrested two suspected motorcycle snatchers who specialise in beating up okada riders and stealing their motorcycles.Â
“According to the report, on the same day around 8.30pm, one Mustapha Adam of Anguwan Mahaukata and Jafar Lawan of Gudun Hausawa area, Bauchi disguised as passengers and engaged an okada man, one Kabiru Muhammadu of Magaji Quarters, Bauchi at the Central Market to take them to the old airport area.
“On reaching the Wikki Oil area, they brought out a trailer-wheel spanner and hit him on his head. He sustained an injury on his head and fell unconscious.
UBEC accuses states of failing to fund basic education.
by Deborah Tolu kolawole
Prof. Adamu Usman, the chairman of the governing board of the Universal Basic Education Council, has charged that state governments have abdicated their duty to provide money for basic education in their jurisdictions to the council. Usman claims that because states don't pay their matching contributions and don't use the money properly, they don't seem passionate about sponsoring basic education. The Federal Government established UBEC as an interventionist organisation to help states fulfil their fundamental duty of providing world-class, uniform, high-quality basic education throughout Nigeria. A middle-aged woman named Mama Dada burned herself on fire because she couldn't repay a loan from LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited. Since then, we've learned that the microfinance institution mentioned in the article wasn't LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited.il.Â
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has promised to begin the inspection and assessment of all federal roads in two weeks. He stated this on Monday while speaking during a press conference at the Federal Ministry of Works in Abuja, after the swearing-in ceremony of 45 ministers. According to him, under his leadership, bureaucratic processes will be a thing of the past, as no file will be expected to be left unattended for more than two hours without genuine explanations. He also emphasised that due to his background, he considered himself a field-oriented individual rather than an office-bound one. He added that the ministry’s team of experts would embark on tours across the six geopolitical zones of the nation to assess the condition of road infrastructures and strategise methods to enhance the well-being of Nigerians.
Uncover CBN, NNPCL mess, economists, groups tell Tinubu’s special investigator
by Sami Olatunji, Nathaniel Shaibu & Oluwakemi Abimbola
Economists and civil society organisations have backed the appointment of a special investigator to probe the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited and other Government Business Entities by President Bola Tinubu.
The experts and groups in separate interviews with The PUNCH on Sunday said the investigation was necessary to ascertain if there were any infractions or alleged abuse of office by the suspended CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, and other top government officials.
Their comments came on the heels of Tinubu’s appointment of the former Chief Executive Officer of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, Jim Obazee, as Special Investigator to probe the CBN, NNPCL, and other Government Business Entities.
In a letter sighted by The PUNCH on Sunday, Tinubu directed the special investigator to work with security and anti-corruption agencies to provide a comprehensive report on public wealth currently in the hands of corrupt individuals and establishments, whether private or public.
US-Nigeria Relations and the 2016 American Elections
by Bray, IF. John
The US has held one presidential election in Nigeria's four years of working in the country, and Nigerians are keenly interested in the results. The conduct and results of the election affect perceptions of the US and the longstanding relationship between America and Nigeria. The US foreign policy is formed by the president relying on input from all three branches of government, including Congress and the National Security Council. The US has consistently sought to work with Nigeria to improve economic stability, security, and well-being by strengthening democratic institutions, improving transparency and accountability, and professionalizing security forces. The US-Nigeria Bi-National Commission continues to enjoy a close association and working partnership with Nigeria on various issues, including good governance, rule of law, regional security, women's empowerment, education, healthcare, access to economic opportunity for Nigeria's youth, and countering violent extremism. Nigeria is Africa's most populous nation and a significant trading partner for the US, with bilateral trade exceeding $9bn in 2014.
Punch Newspaper, Saturday, September 17, 2016, pg.21
Vandals steal Abuja-Kaduna rail line communication, signal equipment
by Lilian Ukagwu
Unknown individuals have allegedly stolen communication signals at the Abuja-Kaduna railway corridor, according to a top official within the Nigerian Railway Corporation. The vandals allegedly stole the communication signal equipment and reduced the speed of trains after terrorist attacks at Kubwa train station. The signal lights, necessary for communication and maintaining safe distances between trains, were removed, and the vandals were actively tampering with rail fasteners, causing potential dangers as trains traverse those sections. The vandalism primarily occurred within the Rigasa yard premises, where security personnel were usually stationed. The compromised communication systems and damaged signaling equipment have affected the efficiency and reliability of the service. The Regional Manager of Idu Train Station, Pascal Nnolim, expressed concern over the rising incidents of vandalism on the rail line. He stated that unknown vandals destroyed signalling equipment and track materials, lamenting the constant need for replacements due to repeated acts of vandalism. The civil engineering department has put temporary speed restrictions until the necessary issues are resolved, prioritizing safety for passengers. The Abuja-Kaduna rail lines have been in the news since 28 March 2022, when terrorists planted explosives at the Kubwa train station.
Punch Newspaper, Wednesday, August 09, 2023, pg.27
Varsity graduate attempts suicide over withheld results
by Uthman Salami
A graduate of Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, identified as Precious Ogbeide, has attempted suicide over the alleged university’s refusal to issue him and several other students their results after they graduated from school in 2018. Ogbeide, whose parents claimed he had been battling depression due to his inability to be issued his results after spending five years in the school, started to stab himself with pieces of a bottle he had broken. Some aggrieved students of the school had lamented the inability to receive their degree results after spending five years undergoing the programme, claiming that the situation had demoralised them. The aggrieved students said, that the tertiary institution had been promising them that the backlog of results would be cleared and students who were yet to be mobilised for the National Youth Service Corps scheme would be settled. However, a source, who was privy to incident, said that Ogbeide became frustrated and decided to end his life over the matter. Meanwhile, the school, through the Head of Corporate Communications and Protocol, Mike Aladenika, had told PUNCH Metro that the students affected by certificate and result issues might have had issues with some courses during their time in school.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, September 28, 2023, pg.5
The West Africa Examination Council has said it is not in any way perverting the course of justice of any highly placed persons whose electoral victories in the last national elections are being challenged in court by their opponents. A statement signed by WAEC and made available to The PUNCH on Thursday said it would have ignored all the baseless, and malicious allegations, in Nigeria. It read, “These reports even alleged that “top WAEC Directors at the Yaba office received huge sums of money in several tranches to conceal and doctor information on WAEC records concerning some defendants.â€Â “The reports went on to say that WAEC has been complicit in denying all litigants access to examination records in proof of their cases in court.â€Â The reports also bogusly claimed that an investigative agency had gone to Ghana and completed investigations while efforts to do so in Nigeria were blocked by some WAEC officials.â€Â  It explained that the mandate of WAEC was to conduct examinations and award certificates to deserving candidates, “It is a no-respecter of positions or personalities. “WAEC will never be intimidated into doing the unethical. It is guided by the principles of professionalism and integrity. It isa We shall always say the truth,no matter whose ox is gored!.
Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum insists Monday’s (today) final Group B clash against the already eliminated Republic of Ireland at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia will not be an easy affair, despite the Europeans having exited the tournament.
The game holds at the 52,500-capacity Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Ireland crashed out after losing to co-hosts Australia 2-1 and Canada 1-0, while Nigeria are poised to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition for the third time, following their stunning 3-2 victory over Australia on Thursday after 102 minutes of electrifying football in Brisbane.
Waldrum’s side had earlier held Olympic champions Canada to a goalless stalemate in their opener.Â
Waldrum wary of Irish as Falcons eye last 16 slot
31st July 2023
Tana Aiyejina
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Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum insists Monday’s (today) final Group B clash against the already eliminated Republic of Ireland at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia will not be an easy affair, despite the Europeans having exited the tournament.
The game holds at the 52,500-capacity Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Ireland crashed out after losing to co-hosts Australia 2-1 and Canada 1-0, while Nigeria are poised to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition for the third time, following their stunning 3-2 victory over Australia on Thursday after 102 minutes of electrifying football in Brisbane.
Waldrum’s side had earlier held Olympic champions Canada to a goalless stalemate in their opener.
The Nigerians know a draw against the Irish will see them through to the round of 16, irrespective of the potentially explosive clash between Australia and Canada, which will be played simultaneously.
But Waldrum is not on cloud nine already.
“Ireland, first of all, it’s not going to be an easy game,†Waldrum told The PUNCH in an exclusive interview.
The secret to successful farming is learning how to raise crop yields, and having access to new technologies and planting techniques has given farmers the chance to do so. Increasing crop production is essential to maintaining the long-term sustainability of their farm. The application of science and technology to farming has helped planting. Understanding the significance of crop yields requires an understanding of high-performance agriculture. The following practises can be used to increase agricultural productivity for maize crops: plant early, plant effectively, practise seasonal soil rotation, know the yield potential, always scout your fields, ensure proper water drainage, use fertiliser, weed early and frequently, plant quality seed, visit myfarmeducation.ca to gain access to the 'new farmers' guild', and finally, identify your soil type.
We are using ICT for food production says Microsoft
by Ubabukoh, Ozioma
Microsoft says that information and communications technology now has a role to play in the production, preservation, and consumption of food. It said that the concept of food was not just about eating it, “but to see how produce may be grown in the future while exploring the convergence of art, biology, and technology.â€Â This, the ICT company said, it was doing through what it called ‘Project Florence’. The company stated this at the just-concluded Microsoft Underground Campus Tour in Washington, the United States of America. The Principal Research Designer, Asta Roseway, explained that there had always been a relationship between people and their gardens (with some sources linking these relationships to increased longevity), but with computer interaction, plants would be able to talk back. Roseway said that it was largely expected that population growth, climate change, soil erosion, and growing populations in cities would make urban farming (growing food indoors in tanks) more essential. Another technical staff member, Jeff Kramer, said that there were other advantages to this approach as well and stated that factors such as oxygen and humidity, which normally reduced the lifespan of servers, were no longer an issue, which resulted in efficiency gains.
We Rejected Panel's Report on Ondo Primary- APC NWC
by Alechenu John
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria is facing a crisis as party leaders continue to give conflicting versions of the controversial Ondo State governorship primary. APC National Vice-Chairman Hilliard Eta criticised Pius Akinyelure's claim that the party's National Chairman, John Odigie-Oyegun, National Secretary Mai Buni', and National Organising Secretary Osita Izunaso were responsible for the "rigging" of the primary election. Eta dismissed Akinyelure's claim as false and an attempt to please an unnamed benefactor. Eta also dismissed the claim that members overwhelmingly voted in favour of the adoption of the appeals committee report. Eta explained that the party's national chairman almost made a procedural error by asking those at the meeting to vote, and that it was agreed that the only report by the Governor Badaru Abubakar-led governorship primary election committee was left for adoption. Eta criticized Akinyelure for starting a fight because his preferred candidate didn't win the election and urged him to go back to Ondo himself with his team and the candidate he prefers.
The Nigerian Senate has expressed surprise at a recommendation by the Nigerian Law Reform Commission for a review of the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Act, which would make people possessing foreign currencies for more than 30 days face jail time or a 20% fine. The Senate argues that such a move would hinder investors' access to the market and undermine reform efforts aimed at boosting investor confidence. The CBN, however, denies any involvement in the proposed legislation and denies any knowledge of the proposed clause recommending a jail term or fine for foreign exchange holder for over 30 days. The CBN has not proposed any bill to arrest and jail persons holding foreign exchange for more than 30 days.
Punch Newspaper, Tuesday, November 22, 2016, pg.29
Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation, has admitted to leaking a letter written by former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi to former President Goodluck Jonathan on oil revenue theft. Amaechi denied that he 'clandestinely' leaked the letter, claiming that Sanusi had threatened him for revealing that $49bn was missing from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation's account. Amaechi, who was then the Rivers State governor, claimed that he revealed the letter because he believed corruption during Jonathan's tenure was too high. Amaechi shared the letter with his fellow governors and Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, who was investigating the oil sector. Amaechi's patriotic zeal to put Nigeria first led him to leak the letter. A delegation from the United States government visited Amaechi to discuss the issue of oil theft in Nigeria, providing Amaechi with figures of billions of dollars lost annually.
Why I Omitted Tinubu from My Victory Speech- Akeredolu
by Alechenu John & Adetayo Olalekan
Ondo State governor-elect Chief Rotimi Akeredolu stated that he did not acknowledge Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in his victory speech due to the expediency of doing so. He acknowledged President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, as the party's leaders. Akeredolu thanked the President and the leader of the party profusely for the leadership leading to the election. He also thanked the chairman for standing by the truth and for his position on the matter that led to the election. He stated that the party structure is clear, with the leadership represented by Chief John Odigie-Oyegun. He also mentioned that Tinubu remained one of the party's leaders, noting that he had sent a congratulatory message to him after winning the election. Akeredolu said he would not deliberately probe the administration of outgoing governor Olusegun Mimiko but would not look back if he stumbled upon established cases of wrongdoing.
Punch Newspaper, Thursday, December 01, 2016, pg.7
Why I Won't React to Melaye's Allegation- Kogi Gov
by Odogun Gbenga
Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has denied Senator Dino Melaye's allegation that he planned to kill him. Bello stated that the accusation did not come as a surprise to him, as he believes the police are capable of getting to the root of the allegation and doing justice to it once and for all. He also emphasized that security should never be politicised in the state and that Bello will be properly guided to make informed comments after the report of the investigation.Melaye expressed shock over the attempt on his life and promised not to relent in his fight against corruption, maladministration, impunity, and nepotism. He stated that four days after the attempt, the governor neither called nor visited him to know the state of affairs with him. Bello also dissociated himself from APC chairmanship campaign posters and reported fake reports on the 'Office of the Immediate Past Governor' fake in Kogi.Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has denied Senator Dino Melaye's allegation that he planned to kill him. Bello stated that the accusation was not surprising and that the case is under investigation by the police. He also emphasized that the government believes the police can do justice to the allegation and that security should never be politicized in the state. Bello urged Melaye to report the incident to the state's Chief Security Officer, as he would have nothing to say. Melaye expressed shock over the attempt on his life and pledged not to relent in his fight against corruption, maladministration, impunity, and nepotism.
Why They Want to Scuttle My Presidential Ambition- Fayose
by Ogundele Kamarudeen
Ekiti State Governor, Chief Ayodele Fayose, has accused the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government of harassing and intimidating his aides and associates due to the imminent defeat of President Muhammadu Buhari in a free and fair election in 2019. Fayose stated that the truth he told Nigerians during his declaration of interest that Buhari and the APC had nothing good to offer Nigeria had pierced the conscience of APC leaders. However, he remains committed to rescuing the country from maladministration. Fayose described the arrest of two officials by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as the height of impunity, as a competent court of jurisdiction had ordered against such action. He argued that the agency's action showed desperation and political partisanship, and that not obeying court orders is not the hallmark of democracy but a virtue of anti-democratic agents. Fayose stressed that his ambition to contest the presidential election in 2019 is God's project and no human effort can thwart it.
Punch Newspaper, Saturday, September 30, 2017, pg.11
Former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, has been accused of playing politics with the lives of the people and not taking the development of the state seriously. Amaechi, a former governor, accused Wike of twisting and turning the truth upside down to denigrate his towering image and achievements. Amaechi questioned Wike's alleged propensity to play politics with the safety and security of the lives of Rivers people, stating that no government should play politics with the safety and security of its citizens. Amaechi also challenged Wike to tell Rivers people the cult wars that led to the brutal murder of hundreds of Rivers people since the election that made him governor. Amaechi also questioned the Rivers Monorail project, which Wike said he would abandon, and questioned who Rivers people told him not to touch the project.
The Women Technology Empowerment Centre in Nigeria has partnered with the Librarians Registration Council of Nigeria, the Universal Service Provision Fund, and the National Information Technology Development Agency to train public librarians on information and communication technology (ICT) to improve library operations. The training, which took place in six geopolitical zones, aimed to equip librarians with the necessary ICT skills to drive library operations and make them more relevant to the community. The training aimed to equip librarians with the knowledge to explore ICT solutions and make libraries more relevant to society. The feedback from participants showed that the training had been impactful, with many libraries lacking the necessary personnel and professional capacity. The training has made libraries more relevant to society and has helped them execute their activities effectively.
Yabatech introduces device to aid learning in computer village
by Grace Edema
Yabatech has donated a Mobile Learning Aid to enable learners access learning materials online without internet and data subscription. The Aptus Pi was donated by the Commonwealth of Learning under the Skills in Demand Project, which is aimed at upgrading and formalizing informal apprenticeships in Nigeria. Successful learners will be awarded the National Skills Qualification Certificate after assessment by the National Business and Technical Examinations Board.