In a bid to avoid impending air mishaps, the Delta state government has ordered the immediate  relocation of the state refuse dump site in Asaba, the state capital, due to its nearness to the Asaba International Airport as well as posing flight danger to airplanes while landing and taking-off.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, while disclosing the plot to move the dump site to another area, ordered the state Ministry of Environment to make sure that the directive becomes effective to avoid unwarranted air mishaps at the airport.

The state governor‘s statement forms part of the outcome of his ongoing peer review mechanism initiative, tagged “Delta state Economic Dashboard”, at the Government House Asaba.

According to him, “One of the issues we looked at in the course of our discussions is about the Asaba refuse dump site. It has become necessary to relocate the dump site which is too close to the Airport as fire and smoke from burnt waste could disrupt flights.

“The Ministry of Environment is to relocate the dump site to another area within a very short time.”

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has handed over 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles to the State police command as a new initiative to curb criminal activities in the State commences operations.

The initiative, Delta State Government Special Security Patrol is part of measures to ensure that crimes like kidnapping and armed robbery were reduced to the barest minimum.

The 30 Toyota Hilux vehicles handed over to give teeth to the resolve to make the state peaceful and secured, have been specifically designated for patrol and surveillance of given routes and highways across the state.

Handing over the vehicles to the police, Dr Uduaghan noted that the rate of kidnapping was coming down in the state and promised to continue to intensify efforts towards providing adequate security in the state.

He said he would provide a safe haven for investors and guarantee peace and security so that prospective investors would operate in a conducive atmosphere.

The Governor said the present effort was to beef up security and sustain the success already recorded in the state especially the reduction in kidnapping.

He explained that the vehicles have been assigned to different routes across the state to ensure that all areas in the state were adequately monitored and secured.

“We are doing this to guarantee peace and security and to ensure that crime rate is drastically reduced. We will increase our effort in the provision of logistics for security operatives to enable them cope with the challenges in crime prevention”.

He commended Local Government Chairmen in the state for supporting the efforts of the State Government especially for assisting security operatives to maintain peace and security.

The governor also commended security operatives in the state for their efforts in reducing crime especially kidnapping which he said had reduced significantly.

Receiving the vehicles the State Commissioner of Police, Ikechukwu Aduba warned criminals to turn a new leaf and become law abiding citizens because his men would get them if they failed to heed his warning.

He commended the Governor Uduaghan for providing the vehicles and assured that the vehicles would be properly utilized to combat crime.

“We will chase away criminals from the state. I warn criminals to leave the state because if they fail to we will get them anywhere they are hiding. I restate that there will be no hiding place for them”.

The Delta State Board of Internal Revenue (DBIR), has on Tuesday blacklisted two erring banks, Union Bank and Diamond Bank  from the list of IGR collecting banks in Delta State for alleged unethical banking procedures.

Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, Executive Chairman of the Board said in his office in Asaba that the action was due to media reports of alleged N1.1billion missing from DBIR accounts.

According to him, an investigation was instituted and the findings implicated the two collecting banks for the State’s internally generated revenue (IGR), adding that “The Delta State Board of Internal Revenue wishes to inform the general public that, the board has black-listed Union bank and Diamond bank as IGR collecting banks for Delta state.

He alleged that the blacklisted banks had failed to remit N1.1billion tax revenue paid into its accounts several days after a multinational oil giant, Chevron Nigeria Limited, paid the money through the servicing banks.

“Hence forth all our accounts in Union bank and Diamond bank are here by closed and all other business transactions terminated.

“We advise tax payers to use any of the board’s numerous accounts in other banks.

“Any tax payer who deals with these two banks, does that at his own risk.”

Joel-Onowakpo Thomas explained that the action became necessary after the two banks deliberately delayed release of fund paid by a tax paying organization. “Our preliminary investigation revealed that the said fund was not only delayed beyond the stipulated time as proscribed by the law, but also fell far below international best practice.”

The Executive Chairman, however said that the DBIR had earlier warned all IGR banks of sanctions, should any bank fail to credit the board’s account in line with the stipulated laws.

He therefore called on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to urgently investigate this issue to ascertain whether the conduct of these banks were in line with international best banking practices.

It was revealed that  the multinational  oil company mandated its bank, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc (UBN) and Diamond Bank Plc  to credit N1.1 billion into the  Delta State Government  account through  its collecting  bank  but was shocked that  the amount  said to have been paid  since December  27, 2012 , has not been  credited.

Joel-Onowakpo Thomoas, disclosed that while Chevron  strongly held to  her  claims  that the money  had been  successfully  transferred  into DBIR account, the two banks  had  also insisted that the fund has not been  received,  which prompted the two banks to trade blame.

He said at a point, Union Bank acknowledged receiving the money from Chevron and that the said money had been remitted to the state’s Diamond Bank account while Diamond Bank denied receipt of such fund.

“Both banks “played smart” by holding on to the money since December 27, 2012, more than the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)  stipulated period of time before remitting  the fund into Delta State Government‘s coffers on January 7, 2013.

“The actions of both banks constitute lack of transparency  in revenue collection. A lot of funds have been  lost in the past  with such sharp practices.”

“The most worrisome aspect is not keeping the funds but the denial by the two banks that the money was not with them. It is obvious that the banks did not leave up to expectations and both banks are liable. “Having issued out several warnings in the past in respect of this practice of holding on to the board’s money, it is with heart filled with sympathy that we are using the two banks as scapegoats to serve as deterrent to others who are involved in the unwholesome practice.

“If we have to survive in this harsh environment, we have to blacklist the two banks as our revenue collection banks. That means that our accounts with the two banks have been closed with immediate effect,” he stated. Management of Diamond Bank Plc and Union Bank Plc had before now been trading blames over the whereabout of the money.”

The details of the proposed Delta State 2013 budget which formed part of a press briefing by Mr. Kenneth Okpara, Commissioner for Economic Planning on Thursday, January, 2013 was made available to Blank NEWS Online by the Commissioner, through his Special Assistant, Omamuyovwi Edewor.

Excerpts:

Gentlemen of the Press, and members of the Public here present, I welcome you all to this 2012 budget breakdown presentation.

You will recall that His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, on Friday, 23rd November, 2013, presented a budget of N398,317,113,836  for the 2013 fiscal year to the Delta State House of Assembly in accordance with the requirement of section 121(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This budget is currently under consideration by the Delta State House of Assembly.

POLICY OBJECTIVES OF THE 2013 BUDGET

3.         The 2013 Delta State Annual Budget is geared towards improving the standard of living of Deltans through well-articulated and all round sustainable economic development programs. Government is taking calculated actions to improve our infrastructure, this is the core of its strategy to make the State one of the most attractive destinations for investors, both local and foreign, and achieve its overarching vision of “Delta Beyond Oil” and objective of job creation.

4.         In addition, the underpinning of the 2013 budget is consolidation on our three-point agenda of Peace and Security, Human Capital Development, and Infrastructural Development. This consistency and continuity in infrastructure development are deliberate measures meant to inspire confidence by His Excellency, the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan (CON).

5.         In keeping with this administration’s goal of not abandoning any project, emphasis of the 2013 budget is on completion of on- going projects. New projects to be embarked upon must flow from need-based assessment, well thought out with their economic, social and political relevance adequately articulated, and with due consideration of the procurement process to ensure transparency and accountability.

6.         In pursuit of the above objectives, the 2013 budget proposal is well crafted to:

(i)         contain measures to ensure efficient internal revenue generation and collection;

(ii)       contain measures to minimize wastages and block leakages;

(iii)       reflect adequate provision of funds for on-going projects to ensure their speedy completion;

(iv)       ensure that pending contractual commitments are budgeted for;

REVIEW OF THE 2012 BUDGET

7.        The key question here is did the team under the leadership of His Excellency the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, deliver on budget expectations for 2012? In order to adequately evaluate and determine the extent by which the Delta State Executive team were able to match their rhetoric with actions during 2012, the key assumptions underlying the budget projections needs to be reviewed. The determinants are the ones that are beyond the control of the State, like the statutory allocations (revenue) from the FGN, and acts of God, like the flood disaster. We are all aware that revenues from FGN was reduced greatly in 2012 due to oil price volatility and other factors, the flood disaster also brought untold hardship and consequential effect on revenues and expenditures. On the flip side, and with all sense of humility, permit me to mention some of the quick wins made by the Uduaghan led team in 2012, as part of the narratives or facts behind the performance figures that will follow.

Now, let us move to the figures. In 2012, the State Government approved the sum of N437,218,083,558 for its services. The amount is made up of N180,846,597,100  for Recurrent Expenditure and N256,371,486,458 for Capital Expenditure. The Budget was to be financed as follows:

 (A)   REVENUE

(B)       EXPENDITURE

S/NDetails

Approved               2012 Budget

%                     Appropriation

i

 Recurrent Expenditure

180,846,597,100

41.36

ii

 Capital Expenditure

256,371,486,458

58.64

 Total

437,218,083,558

100.00

YEAR 2012 REVENUE BUDGET PERFORMANCE

 (JANUARY 2012 TO SEPTEMBER 2012)

8.      The State Government, during the nine months of January to September, 2012, recorded a total revenue performance of N190,031,090,121 representing an overall performance of 57.95% over expected proportionate receipts of N327,913,562,669.  Out of this amount, the sum of N137,892,457,138 was received as Statutory Allocation from the Federation Account. The amount represents 108.15% performance of the proportionate estimate of N127,500,000.  On the other hand, the sum of N7,448,261,654 was recorded as receipts from Value Added Tax (VAT) out of the proportionate projected receipts of N7,493,429,651 representing a budget performance of 99.40%.

9.         The sum of N34,589,515,448 was recorded as Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) out of the projected revenue of N38,585,287,936, representing a budget performance of 89.64%. The sum of N10,100,855,881 or 6.54% was received from other capital revenues against the proportionate budget of N154,334,845,082 during the period under review. The breakdown of the revenue receipts from individual revenue sources is provided hereunder:

10.      The above revenue receipts represent an aggregate 11.85% increase on N169,891,289,940 recorded for the corresponding period of January to September, 2011.  The area that was significantly affected is the internally generated revenue from which N24,545,129,537 was received in 2011 as against N34,589,515,448 received for the same period in 2012.  This is an increase of N10,044,385,911 representing 40.29%. There was, however a marginal decrease of 0.83% in the receipts from Statutory Allocation of N137,892,457,138  as against N139,047.644,025 received for the same period in 2011.

EXPENDITURE (JANUARY TO SEPTEMBER, 2012)

11.      As for expenditure, a total sum of N188,454,698,016 was spent during the period January – September, 2012. Out of this amount, the sum of N124,537,941,057 was spent on recurrent items as against a proportionate approved budget of N135,634,947,825 representing a budget performance of 91.82%. The breakdown is summarized below:

13.      The sum of N256,371,486,458  was budgeted for Capital Expenditure.  During the year, actual expenditure for the period, January-September, 2012 was N63,916,756,958 as a against the proportionate budget figure of N192,278,614,844 representing a budget performance of 33.24%. A breakdown of the Sectoral performance for the period is as follows:

YEAR 2013 BUDGET

14.       The sum of N398,317,113,836  has been earmarked by the State Government for its services in the 2013 fiscal year. The breakdown is as follows:

BUDGET SIZE

SOURCES OF FUND

15.      The main sources of funds for the 2013 budget are:

INTERNALLY GENERATED REVENUE  

16.       We have mapped out clear strategies to sustain our determination to improve our Internal Revenue generating efforts.  It is in this regard that we are expecting the sum of N61,440,624,172 from Internally Generated Revenue in 2013 as against the sum of N51,447,050,581 approved for the 2012 fiscal year. The IGR estimates for 2013 is higher than the 2012 approved estimates by N10,000,000,000 or 19.44%.  The breakdown of the Internally Generated Revenue sources is as follows: –

STATUTORY ALLOCATION

17.       The sum of N198,513,285,148 is expected from Statutory Allocation from the Federation Account in the 2013 fiscal year.  This amount is more than the N170,000,000,000 budgeted last year by N28,513,285,148 or 16.77%.  This increase is attributable to higher expectations from oil revenues next year.

OTHER CAPITAL RECEIPTS/MISCELLANEOUS

18.      The sum of N126,921,344,146 is proposed as Capital Receipts/Miscellaneous for 2013. This is a decrease of N78,858,449,296 or 38.32% from N205,779,793,442  approved for the 2012 budget. The decrease is a cautious approach to minimize deficit budget (which is part of the other capital receipts/miscellaneous) in 2013. Apart from deficit financing, others included in this category are: grants, counterpart funding contribution from the Federal Government, return on investments, and other incomes like SURE-P.

RECURRENT EXPENDITURES

19.      The total recurrent expenditure estimates for 2013 is N145,941,894,477 made up of personnel costs of N57,663,459,536 or 39.79% and overhead costs of N49,201,030,693 or 33.71%. The Consolidated Revenue Fund Charges has a proposed sum of N39,077,404,248 or 26.78%. On the whole, the recurrent proposal for 2013 is lower by N34,904,702,623 or 19.30% when compared with the sum of N180,846,597,100  approved for 2012. This is one of the strategies to minimize the cost of providing Government services, and devote more funding to development. The recurrent expenditure estimates is summarized hereunder:

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE ESTIMATES

20.      The proposed capital expenditure estimates for 2013 is N252,375,219,359. The proposal is N3,996,267,100 or 1.56% lower than the 2012 capital budget of N256,371,486,458. The sectoral breakdown of the capital expenditure estimates is as stated hereunder:

21.       Allocation to the various sub sectors is as follows:

22.       Highlights of the State Development Programs for the 2013 fiscal year are as follows:

Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries

23.       Agriculture employs a vast majority of our working population, it deserves no mean attention. Our desire is to remain on the path of massive food production for the increasing population and the production of industrial raw materials through the establishment of small and medium scale enterprises. Government has in recent times, paid considerable attention to this sector through increased access of our farmers to fertilizers, improved seedlings, and establishment of agro-based small and medium scale enterprises. It is the responsibility of Government to encourage and assist all Deltans to engage in farming activities in other to provide enough food for consumption, with surplus for sales and export.

24.       Agriculture is one of the major pillars identified in the development agenda of this administration, and it is the core of the Delta Beyond Oil vision. Apart from providing solution to the twin problems of hunger and malnutrition, agriculture plays a central role in addressing the national problem of unemployment and youth development through YETA Program. We are also involved in some Federal and development partner-supported agricultural projects such as Root & Tuber Expansion Program (RTEP), National Program on Food Security (NPFS), Third National Program on Fadama (FADAMA III), and Community Based Natural Resources Management Program (CBNRMP). Delta State is deeply involved in the National Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA). The State is equally participating in the Growth Enhancement Scheme (GES) for fertilizer, cassava, rice, maize, oil palm, rubber, cocoa, aquaculture and poultry.

25.       Being a major source of protein, meat supply remains a concern of this Government. Government initiated action to modernize our abattoirs in order to provide meat processed under high level hygiene condition for Deltans through the construction of new abattoirs across the State. A lot of emphasis will be on veterinary health services in the 2013 fiscal year. Efforts would also be intensified towards the production of fish as a source of protein to the citizens. The major focus of this sub sector in 2013 is to put in place measures for increased fish production in Delta State.

26.       A total sum of N6,039,580,805 or 2.39% of the proposed capital budget has been provided for these sub-sectors for the 2013 fiscal year. The highlight of the proposed spending on agriculture, livestock and fisheries programs are as follows:

Commerce, Industry and Finance

27.       In building a Delta State that will prosper beyond oil, we reckoned it was important we had the following critical infrastructures- Oghareki Power Plant, Asaba International Airport, upgrade Osubi Airport to international standards, special economic zones and industrial clusters, (Koko/Ogidigben Free Trade Zone, Warri Industrial Business Park, and Asaba ICT Park). We thought we should harness our people’s entrepreneurship skills through our Micro Credit Scheme and nurture MSMEs. Our success with Micro Credit Scheme is stunning. We have won three consecutive CBN awards and we have about 100,000 beneficiaries of the Scheme whose stories are as enthralling as they are varied. Other States are understudying the Delta State model because of its acknowledged success. It is a common knowledge that to continue a pattern of success, you concentrate on your areas of strength.

28.         We have put plans in place to establish ten (10) industries to promote Small & Medium Scale Enterprises in the State. These industries will include four fish feed mills and six cassava processing plants. These industries will be managed by private investors to make them viable and ensure efficient management. A total sum of N21,518,792,076 or 8.53% is provided for the activities of these sub sectors for the 2013 fiscal year.  The highlights of the proposed spending on these programs are as follows:

Energy

29.       In line with the sustained effort of Government to ensure the development of power supply infrastructure across the state, emphasis would be placed on the completion of ongoing power generation, transmission and distribution projects in the State during the 2013 fiscal year. These include the Delta State Independent Power Plant and construction of transmission line to dispatch power from the plant into the national grid through the Amukpe transmission substation as well as the construction/upgrading/rehabilitation of power distribution network in both urban and rural communities in the state.

30.       Following the success of generator powered streetlight in Asaba, the State capital and Warri, the commercial and industrial hub of the State, Government’s expansion of generator powered streetlights to other notable towns in the State will be given a boost in the 2013 fiscal year. The endeavour to illuminate our cities, towns and communities at night to enhance security and nightlife will be vigorously prosecuted through the deployment of both conventional and renewable energy systems. Having installed a significant number of solar powered streetlights in various locations in the State over the last 8 years, Government’s focus in the 2013 fiscal year in the Energy Sector would be to put in place a more robust program for the reactivation of broken down solar streetlights and their sustainable maintenance in the future.

31.       A total sum of N13,456,126,135 or 5.33% has been provided for Energy in the 2013 fiscal year. The major highlights of the planned expenditures for Energy are as follows:

Roads and Transportation

32.       The hub of economic enhancement and improved living standards is the availability of good infrastructural platforms like roads, bridges and jetties in order to convey goods and provides services across business territories. Government would continue to work assiduously towards attaining a sustainable, safe, adequate, efficient, reliable and fully integrated roads and waterways operations and infrastructures that will best meet the needs of Deltans. This administration appreciates the overriding need for an airport at Asaba in view of increasing economic activities in the city and environ. The development of the airport has been vigorously pursued to achieve the administration’s desire to build a category C airport. This will be an indelible milestone project in this administration’s cardinal agenda of infrastructural development. In addition to this, the expansion of the Osubi airport runway will be commenced in 2013.

33.       Ladies and gentlemen, from what this administration have been doing in Delta State, we have reason to feel proud that our infrastructure programme that has seen us construct 252 inter/intra city roads. With the dualization of major roads that include 148km Asaba-Ughelli, 33km Ugbenu-Koko, Efurun-Osubi-Eku, 7.2km Ughelli Artery, PTI/Jakpa, Old Lagos/Asaba among others, we are gradually eliminating bottlenecks in movement of goods and creating major networks grids to link all the corners of the State.

34.       This administration is committed to reducing the loss of lives on our roads by providing brand new buses for transportation. Government has distributed 2,250 tricycles to major cities in the state, purchased by the state government. The operations of okada riders had been banned in Asaba, Warri, Effurun and Udu axis.  A total sum of N62,063,064,970 or 24.59% has been proposed for roads and transport for the 2013 fiscal year.   

35.         The highlights of the proposed spending on roads and transportation programs are as follows:

Education

36.       In keeping faith with one of the tripartite agenda of this administration; Human capital development, education being the vehicle for driving the development of human capital would receive adequate attention as usual. This is because education remains the tool for the development of any society.

37.       Since education has remained the bedrock of our society and development, Government will continue to give priority to education in the State. We are investing heavily in infrastructure upgrade and modernization of our public schools for our children, teaching and non-teaching staff facilities. So far about eighteen thousand classrooms have been built, renovated or upgraded. We will still do more. With collaborative efforts and keeping to standards, the physical condition of our schools can compare with any in the world, in a few years.

38.       Through our liberal program in education, we are giving our brightest youths with first class degree, a head start in life. Our offer of scholarships, up to PhD level, tenable in any university of their choice, is a deliberate investment in the future.

39.         We are continuing with the upgrading/expansion of three secondary schools to technical colleges in the state. We won’t stop our gradual and systematic renovation/rehabilitation of classroom blocks in the state. We have successfully handed over schools to missionaries. Part of the State’s proceeds from the removal of subsidy on Petroleum product will be used to complete some on-going projects at Delsu, Abraka in 2013. The sum of N27,095,266,504 or 10.74% of the total capital budget has been proposed for the education subsector. The highlights of the proposed spending on education programs are as follows:

HEALTH

40.       Government main policy on health has remained to provide quality, effective and accessible health care service in the State. The result of our human development program has been remarkable. We are making progress in addressing maternal and child mortality rate in the state. There is a steep drop in maternal and child mortality rate in hospitals. New health care facilities are being constructed or upgraded, but of note is the progress of Oghara Teaching Hospital as a centre of excellence. With current efforts, soon, Oghara Teaching Hospital would become centre of note in Africa. I am sure with Oghara Teaching Hospital we will continue to reversing the search for healthcare treatment outside Nigeria.

41.        A lot has been achieved this year and we have outstanding record in our healthcare services especially in the free health programs in line with the three (3) point agenda. Since the first year of the free Under-Five Health Care in 2010, there has been a steady increase in awareness of the programs and consequent increase in attendance. After the first year of the free Maternal Health Care Program, we recorded a total of 143, 273 routine Antenatal clinic attendance and 18, 889 total deliveries. The year 2011 recorded 175,723 routine Antenatal attendance and 23,662 total deliveries. In 2011, a total of 24,194 patients were in the Free Rural Health Scheme in 100 communities. These free health care services are aimed at fulfilling the policy of bringing quality health care services to the grass root population through the Maternal Health Care, Under-5 Health Care and Rural Health Scheme. Other programs are Malaria Control, HIV-AIDS/Leprosy/Tuberculosis control programs, Rehabilitation, Equipping of Health facilities and institutions.

42.      The year 2013 is targeted at meeting outstanding commitments and contractual obligations for on-going/completed projects. Government will continue with the rehabilitation of dilapidated secondary health facilities and upgrade hospital equipments and facilities in the State. The 2013 budget is also taking into cognizance the completion of on-going Hospitals like the Central Hospital, Asaba and the development of health institutions (School of Nursing, Warri, Agbor, and Eku) and School of Health Technology, Ofoma, Ughelli.  The procurement of some mobile hospitals will in a long way reduce mortality rates in the rural areas of the State. The critical years of human development is the first 5 years of life, to adulthood with emphasis on pregnancy, which is why this administration is particular in the free Health Programs. More Ambulances will be procured and put at strategic places in our highways across the State to reduce accident related deaths.

43.        Health they say is wealth and a healthy State is a wealthy one. That is why our policies and programs are geared towards improving the health status of the people.  A total of N11,553,584,511 or 4.58% is proposed for the Health sub-sector in the 2013 budget. The highlights of the provisions for the Health sub-sector for the 2013 financial year are as follows:

INFORMATION

44.       The importance of information in a democratic government need not be over-emphasized. Government policy on information sector remains putting in place an effective two-way communication system. To do this, Government will focus on setting up all facets of mass communication facilities with the objective of mobilizing the people, especially at the grassroots, to enhance the people’s awareness of the political, economic and social developments in the State. In order to achieve these objectives, government decided to commence the upgrading of the media outfits owned by the state. For instance, the Delta Broadcasting Service is being equipped with modern facilities to enhance efficient service delivery.

45.       On Arts and Culture, Government will continue to ensure the propagation, promotion, presentation and preservation of Arts and Culture in the State. For us to compete favourably with other States and Nations in form and function, our cultural consciousness must be reawakened. In this regard, Government will employ a formidable reservoir of indigenous talents that will carry on the crusade for cultural renaissance within the available resources.            The sum of N3,533,026,936 or 1.40% of the total capital budget is proposed for Information and Culture sub-sector this fiscal year.

46.       The highlights of the allocation to this sub-sector are as follows:

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

47.  Delta State is known as the number one in sports in the Federation and has consistently maintained this position. Delta State has achieved so much in Sports Development. We have been champions at four out of the last six editions of the National Sports Festival. We have won virtually all the trophies at other games. This development has continued to be a source of pride to every Deltan. Government intends to sustain this exalted position of sporting performance exhibited by our Sports men and women, both at national and international events, and will continue to support sports development and use it as a tool for promoting and sustaining peace and security in the state.

48.  In the area of youth development, government will continue to collaborate with development agencies to positively engage the youth and provide them with basic skills that will put them in good stead for self employment and legitimate means of livelihood. The now completed Multipurpose Youth Centre, Egbokodo, will be operational in 2013. Development planning programs are being designed to attract repentant militants and school dropouts particularly in the riverine areas as an avenue for re-integration into society. The maritime sector, a highly lucrative and bedrock of the world economic system, is a major target in this regard.

49.       In furtherance of its role of enhancing the well-being of citizens, Government will continue to implement policies and programs to alleviate the challenges of the less privileged in our society. Delta State Government, since inception of current democracy has never shied away from the rights and protection of the vulnerable and less privilege in our midst. To address the issue of delinquency among our children and the problem of destitute that roam our streets, this administration will continue to provide facilities for the Children Remand Homes, Warri and Sapele.

50.       A total sum of N4,803,074,830  has been proposed for this sub-sector. This represents 1.90% of the total capital budget for 2013.  Highlights of the projects to be executed in this sector are as follows:

WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT

51.       Government policy of providing regular and portable water in the State is being pursued with all seriousness. In the last few years, Government embarked on the construction of new water schemes, rehabilitation of existing schemes, pipeline extensions, purchase of spare parts, equipment and materials for the effective maintenance of the existing water schemes. Also, generators were purchased for schemes in areas where public power supply is unreliable. In spite of our efforts so far at addressing water problem in the state, we cannot in all honesty say that Deltans now enjoy uninterrupted supply of potable water at cheap and affordable rates. This has given Government reasons for deep reflections on how best to approach water supply in the State. As a stop gap, government will continue with the rehabilitation/maintenance of existing schemes which would include the strengthening of urban/rural water supply agencies, while effort will be made to develop a comprehensive master plan for water supply throughout the state.

52.       The sum of N5,756,925,200  is provided for the water sub-sector.  This represents 2.28% of the total capital budget for 2013. Some of the major projects to be executed in the sub-sector this year are as follows:

Environment

53.       The policy thrust of the Government is to make Delta State one of the cleanest States in the country and to ameliorate the increasing ecological problem of flooding and Soil erosion. The current incident of monumental flooding had awakened our consciousness not to underestimate the capacity of the flood to cause huge destruction in our environment. This force of nature has been ferocious these past weeks and months. Following from what has happened, we cannot continue to be ignorant or neglect of the environment. In 2013, Government intends to improve mechanism to educate our people more on the issue of environment and climate change. Old ways of thinking and doing things have to change. Unapproved structures that stand in natural water channels or flood prone areas will be removed. Moreso, Government is now determined to redouble its efforts in enforcing town planning laws. Government will continue to give attention to the numerous environmental problems which need urgent attention. A glossary look at the environment shows that soil erosion in some cases has resulted into deep gullies which have impacted negatively on many communities. Roads, farmlands and houses are either being destroyed or washed away. Government will give desired attention to the issue of environmental pollution and destruction accompanying oil and exploitation, problems of flooding, shore and costal erosions that are of the increase, Siltation & intrusion of weeds in the riverine areas of the State which have hinder water transportation/Fishing trading will be taken care of in 2013.Since it has impoverish our people living in the riverine area.

54.       However, in view of the devastating effect of flooding that ravaged places like Asaba, Kwale, Patani, Warri, Uvwie, Sapele and other places with widespread flooding in 2012, Government will ensure that our natural water ways is free to enable discharge of water to drains.

55.       Also, priority will be given to our existing creeks which over the years have resulted in siltation. In 2012, it was discovered that construction of illegal and unapproved structures along waterways particularly in Asaba, Warri, Sapele and Uvwie were the major causes of widespread flooding noticed in major towns last year. Thus, in 2013, Government will construct a flood/Erosion control measures in various communities spread across the 25 local government areas of the State. A total sum of N13,397,103,873 or 5.31% has been set aside for the protection of our environment in forestry and drainage subsectors. Major projects to be executed include:

HOUSING

56.       Government has remained committed to the provision of adequate housing for its people. This is a challenge faced by past administrations since the creation of Delta State in 1991. Significant successes have so far been recorded from the various housing programs that resulted in the construction of low and medium income houses throughout the state. This administration is making effort to consolidate and sustain the tempo of housing policy reforms. Housing is an economic activity with inherent multiplier effects. The critical housing needs particularly in the oil producing areas, is gradually and systematically being addressed.

57.       In 2013, Government will finalize plans for the introduction of the Social Housing Policy (SHP). The SHP would be end-users driven through the use of development agents and partnership through public private sector partnership. With the PPP, more modern gated housing estates would be delivered. Government’s plan is to provide qualitative and affordable houses to low, medium and high income earners in Delta State. We shall also embark on housing schemes for public servants on Owner-Occupier basis.

58.      The sum of N2,869,280,809  has been proposed for this sub-sector this fiscal year.  This represents 1.14% of the total capital estimates. The major areas of emphasis in the 2013 fiscal year in the Housing subsector are stated below

GENERAL ADMINISTRATION

59.       Government places high premium in the provision of conducive office accommodation with furniture and equipment fit for working comforts.  Provisions have been made for the maintenance and servicing of the furniture/ equipment and replacements would be made were necessary. Government has made remarkable efforts at reducing its presence in private owned buildings. The State Secretariat Annex has been completed and it is presently occupied by Ministries and Agencies that hitherto were in private buildings.

60.       Government’s automated financial management and reporting system has been extended to nearly all her Ministries/Departments /Agencies (MDAs) with the roll-out of SAP Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software to them. Consequently, most MDAs currently process their business transaction on-line and in real-time. In 2013, the system will be upgraded and other module activated.

61.       The State’s Justice System has the capacity to expand the frontiers of the legal profession particularly in the areas of advocacy, promotion of criminal justice and conflict resolution through mediation. The Library of the Ministry of Justice in the Headquarters and the Zonal Offices will be equipped with the relevant and latest law books, periodicals etc. Government will vigorously pursue the implementation of the Review of Delta State Laws’ project started in 2000. Also, government will continue with the implementation of the Annotation of Delta State Laws. This will make access of the Laws of the State easier to all users of the laws, facilitating research and ability to ascertain correct data on State Laws for the purpose of efficient application and administration in a user-friendly and modern environment.

62.       Delta state government will not relent in its commitment to the security of lives and property of Deltans as this is a basic requirement for ensuring the continuing growth and development of the state and well-being of its citizens. In the past one year, Government has given out not less than 150 security vehicles which have been distributed to different security agencies in the state.

63.       The sum of N38,078,623,267 or 15.09% of the approved capital budget has been proposed for the General Administration capital expenditure this year.     Highlights of key projects in this sector are as follows:

SPECIAL INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT

64.       One of the strategies His Excellency, the Governor, have employed to fast track infrastructural development in the State was the creation of a Directorate for Special Infrastructure. The purpose is to implement and complete some designated special projects within the shortest possible time by eliminating avoidable bureaucratic bottle necks in the process of project execution. Gentlemen of press, and members of the public, this strategy is yielding results. Most of the projects awarded are at various stages of completion. Some of these special projects are being financed with the Delta State Development Bond. A total of 50 primary and secondary schools have been renovated.  In addition, while 10 model primary schools are currently being equipped, the remodeling/rehabilitation and equipping of the Baptist Hospital in Eku is ongoing. We are also constructing four new polytechnics at Sapele, Bomadi, Aboh and Abigborodo. There are other projects which are at various levels of completion. Some of the projects under Special Infrastructure have been highlighted in subsectors and programs mentioned above.

Subsidy Reinvestment Program (SURE-P)

65.       In continuation of the ongoing SURE-P activities, we will utilize the proceeds to create about 10,000 jobs for youths. These will be in the area of traffic controls, environmental monitoring, and security. We will also deploy part of the funds for road maintenance, transportation, education, agriculture, and micro credit. The sum N500,000,000 is set aside for this program.

DESOPADEC

66.       In accordance with the law setting up the Commission, the sum of N36.5b has been set aside, representing 50% of projected derivation revenue receipts from oil accruable to Delta State for the development of oil producing communities. Government will continue to monitor the activities of the Commission to ensure that the funds disbursed to it are appropriately utilized and accounted for. Government will continue to support the Commission to improve its administrative capacity to deliver on its mandate.

IMPLEMETATION STRATEGIES

67        In keeping faith with this administration’s avowed commitment to meeting the challenge of providing good governance, the following strategies will be adopted:

i.          Articulation of improved spending and procurement guidelines to enhance the attainment of economic development and growth objectives in the budget.  Government will use its spending power to positively impact on local value added by patronizing domestic production.  This would further boost the activities of our Youth Skill Acquisition Centres and on our educational system. By linking Government spending and procurements to local production, we can achieve an integrated economy and realize our growth objectives;

ii.         Deliberate efforts will be made to expand the economy by giving special support to programs directed towards tackling investment in industrial production.  This is because, in addition to creating jobs, they bring more people into the formal economy as taxpayers which further boost government capacity for development;

1. Ensure the new rates of Government services are implemented and that the State Board of Internal Revenue is backed to perform its responsibilities creditably and in accordance with the Revenue Act, to meet the funding requirements of the State for development;
2. Continue to monitor on-going projects through the instrumentality of the various monitoring organs in place, to ensure that projects are faithfully executed by contractors in strict compliance with project designs and specifications to ensure appropriate value for money;
3. Application of stricter control over expenditure and fiscal discipline at all levels of governance by strengthening and supporting the Ministry of Economic Planning to continue to monitor compliance and scrupulous adherence to Due Process by Ministries/Departments/Agencies in procurement processes and listing of certified jobs for payment; and
4.  Severe sanction for any public official whose conduct results in the State being short-changed in its investments in projects.

Conclusion

68.       Finally, as I bring this presentation to a close, let me speak about something unique that Deltans have long been known for, it is likened by some to an “elixir” (cure-all), it contributed greatly to China’s emergence as the second largest economy in the world today, it contributed greatly to Singapore’s movement from a third world to a first world country, it is the “can do” spirit. This is referred to in Cambridge University as the “collective intelligence”, but I defer to my Leader, His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, who not only calls it the “Finger of God”, but has brought a resurgence of this “can do” spirit in the State. This leadership-led mindset is the reason the State came first by wide margin in the recently concluded national sports festival, it is the reason behind the roads, educational and health infrastructures and facilities, keke Uduaghan (tricycles), and I will not fail to mention the Egbokodo multi-purpose youth center, anchored by my ministry, Economic Planning, and others completed or about to be completed.

It is my hope, and I believe the hopes of all Deltans, that this momentum will continue in 2013 and beyond, so as to bring Delta State to its rightful place.

Thank you for listening and God Bless you all.

Mr. Kenneth Okpara

Honourable Commissioner,

Ministry of Economic Planning

3^rd January, 2013

A 42 years old father of three children has been arrested by the Kogi state police command, for allegedly killing and burying his 4-month old son in Egbe, Yagba West Local Government in Kogi State.

The surprising incident was reported to have happened on 31st of December, 2012 with five minutes into the New Year.

Hosea Folorunsho, 42 years old, the father of the four-month old baby was said be caught unawares by neighbours while performing the burial rites of the baby in the front of his house in Egbe.

Findings revealed that following the gory discovery, residents in Egbe quickly reported the man’s ordeal to the Kogi State’s Commissioner of Police for investigations and due punishment.

Hosea is reportedly now being quizzed at the Kogi State Police Command in Lokoja and a police source revealed that he is yet-to-disclosed why he did the very shocking act.

Meanwhile, a police source have confirmed that Mr Hosea Folorunsho carried out the gruesome murder of his son for ritual purpose.

Also, the Kogi state CP, Mohammed Kastina Musa, confirmed that the suspect, a herbalist, buried the child in a shallow grave in his own compound.

While parading the suspect at the state command headquarters in Lokoja Katsina disclosed that on the 31st of December 2012, the herbalist killed his son for alleged ritual.

“On the New Year’s Eve, at about 11:55PM, the suspect quietly took the baby named Sunday Folorunsho who was asleep in the middle of the night and murdered him in gruesome circumstances.

“Having accomplished his mission, the suspect dug a shallow grave in his compound and hurriedly buried the corps of the baby.

The police however escorted Mr Folorunsho to his compound where the baby’s corpse was buried and he was then asked to exhume the corpse.

Digging out the corpse of the baby, he handed over the body to a pathologist who conducted an autopsy on the dead baby.

The autopsy result read that the child died of multiple fractures through the application of blunt object and trauma.

The 48 year old suspect, a native of Egbe in Yagba West Local Government Area (LGA) of the state is married with three other kids.

Delta state Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has said that he was prepared to step on  the toes of highly placed personalities, if need be, in his administration’s poise to check the menace of kidnapping, armed robbery and other violent crimes in the state.

The governor who spoke on Sunday, at the Annual End of Year Thanksgiving Service organized by Iwere Kingdom,  in Warri, complained that such acts of criminalities were an embarrassment to the state and that it was seriously affecting the image of the state among investors and visitors.

While asserting that some communities have been known to harbor such criminal elements  by giving them a playing field to perfect their nefarious acts, he warned that such communities that aid and abet those who engage in acts of violence and criminality against other members of the society would not be spared in the crackdown against criminality.

“You know I took an oath to protect lives and properties and I would not sit back and watch other people terrorize other members of the society.

“All those engaged in one form of criminality or the other such as armed robbery and kidnapping in Delta State should stop their nefarious acts and retrace their steps. In the coming year we are going to take security more seriously and anyone caught would be made to face the law.

“Communities that provide these criminals a safe haven would have themselves to blame as we cannot continue this way.”

In his sermon, the chaplain of the of the Warri kingdom, Dr. Mark Erumi harped on the importance of thanksgiving that is acceptable to God, just as prayers were said for the peace and progress of Nigeria, Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, Iwere Kingdom and the Olu Of Warri among others.

Delta state Commissioner for Information, Barrister Chike Ogeah has made an expose on the myriad of projects completed by the administration of Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as well as others under various stages of construction.

Ogeah, in a statement made available to Blank NEWS Online listed among roads and bridges embarked upon by the state government to include the dualisation of Effurun-Eku road, dualisation of Ugbenu-Koko road, dualisation of Ughelli-Asaba Expressway, construction of Abigborodo Bridge and township roads, as well as the construction of township roads in Asaba, Warri, Ughelli, Agbor and Sapele.

He also noted that in addition to the infrastructural strides of the state governor, many roads linking the numerous towns and villages in the state have also been constructed.

Ogeah further disclosed that another area where Governor Uduaghan recorded a major feat is the upgrading of the state health sector.

The hospitals include the construction of Ekpan Maternal and Childcare Centre; rehabilitation and reconstruction of Eku Baptist Hospital; construction of Maternal and Childcare Centre at Central Hospital, Warri; building and modernization of General Hospitals in all local government headquarters and health centres in many towns and villages; and the completion of Special Kidney Centre at Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara.

Meanwhile, in his determination to reposition and revive the education sector, over 60 new Model Primary Schools equipped with libraries, computer centres, sport facilities have been completed across the state·

In the same vein, four new polytechnics are presently under construction in addition to the four existing ones, alongside the phased rehabilitation and reconstruction of all secondary schools in the state.

According to the state Information Commissioner, “All the schools in Delta State are being upgraded to make them very competitive and better equipped than private institutions.”

In a bid to boost the Transport system and ease the transportation problem of Deltans, the state government acquired over 100 buses and 40 Maco Polo buses which have already been deployed to the intra-city, inter-city and inter-state roads·

Ogeah, who said that “More than 130 water buses have also been procured to boost water transportation in the riverine areas”, added that, “So far, more than 1,500 tricycles have been procured and distributed to private operators at subsidized rates where no fewer than 5,000 people will be employed through the repositioning of the transport sector in Delta State.”

He also hinted that “About 120 bus shelters are being constructed across the state in phases, with the first phase for the construction of 30 already nearing completion.”

This milestone, according to Barr. Chike Ogeah, is also targetted at improving the revenue base of the state.

The state Information boss, while harping on the slogan of building a Delta Beyond Oil, through the intensification of efforts in Agriculture, said  “An integrated approach to boosting agriculture, which involves partnering with the private sector on large scale farming and providing credit for small and medium scale farming has been developed.”

“Thus we have the OFN-Delta Farms at Ogwashi-Uku which has a broiler farm of 220,000 birds, a layer farm of 150,000 laying capacity, a rearing unit of 50,000 point of lay hens, a feed mill and broiler processing plant. This is a commercial venture. Up to 2,000 jobs have been created from this venture.”

“A credit scheme which grants low interest loans and improved farm seedlings and implements is in top gear. Many beneficiaries have set up thriving fish farms and crop farms through the assistance of the state government”, he affirmed.

Speaking on the already operational Asaba Airport in the state capital, Barr. Chike Ogeah said the airport which is of international standard has brought a new dimension to the country’s aviation sector as scheduled commercial flights are operated daily at the airport.

“Ultimately, the Asaba Airport will encompass a cargo section to take advantage of the commercial activities in the eastern part of the country. The Osubi Airport in Warri is also being upgraded as plans have been concluded to construct an additional runway to increase the capacity of the airport to handle bigger planes”, he explained.

On the current development of Warri Industrial Park, he pointed out that the project is designed to be the driving force for the Delta Beyond Oil initiative of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, adding that the Park is conceptualized to be driven by the private sector with the state providing the enabling environment for private enterprises to thrive.

Barr. Chike Ogeah, however confirmed that, “Already, a petro-chemical complex and a fertilizer company are the top projects that foreign investors have already committed to building at the Park.”

The popular 1side Bar in conjunction with Remedy Entertainment is set to thrill children and adults in a Free Kiddies Xmas Countdown.

The free day-long children’s party scheduled for Saturday, December 22, 2012 at No. 1, Sandy Acha Memeh Avenue, off Mariam Babangida Way, Asaba, Delta state capital is expected to feature Bouncing Castle, Swimming Pool, Swing/Games, Dancing Competition among others.

According to Mr. Sandy Acha Memeh, MD/CEO at 1side Nigeria Limited, the event which will showcase the performance of guest stars like Eddy Remedy, MC Pappy Urhobo and DJ Stainless Steel is put together to add spices to the children’s fun during the holidays and throughout the yuletide.

Meanwhile, showbiz maestro, Eddy Remedy has concluded preparation ahead of the event in a bid to ensure that the best entertainment is dished out to the children.

A regular visitor to 1side Bar disclosed to Blank NEWS Online that adults would not be left out in the fun-filled Children Christmas Party, as modalities have also been put in place to engage the adults in an all-night adult party immediately after the children’s fanfare.

1side Bar, a fast growing event and entertainment centre, has also planned to have a “Nite with the best of DJs” on the eve of Christmas, December 24, with DJ Country Boy Entertainment as host.

Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero has been sworn in as the new Governor of Kaduna State, following the death of the Governor Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa in an air crash on Saturday.

Yero was sworn in on Sunday in accordance with the 1999 Constitution.

The new Governor became Commissioner of Finance when Architect Mohammed Namadi Sambo was elected governor in 2007 and was chosen as the Deputy Governor to Patrick Yakowa in 2010.

Alhaji Yero was born on May 1, 1969 in Anguwan Kaura, Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State. He had his primary education at LEA Primary School Kaura between 1974 and 1980 after which he proceeded to Government Secondary School, Ikara and Government Day Secondary School, Zaria for his secondary education.

He bagged a diploma in Banking in 1988, a B.Sc in Accounting in 1991, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration in 2003. During the mandatory National Youth Service Corps, he served in Ogun State, he worked in several private firms and banks.

In 1997, he joined Nalado Nigeria Limited, Kaduna, a company owned by his mentor and Vice President Namadi Sambo as Chief Accountant, rising to become its Director of Finance and Administration. In 2007, he resigned when he was appointed Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance.

Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed shock and sadness over the helicopter crash in Bayelsa State which killed the Governor of Kaduna State, Patrick Yakowa; former National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Owoye Azazi (rtd); their aides, Dauda Tsoho and Warrant Officer Mohammed Kamal and the pilots, Commander Muritala Mohammed Daba and Lt. Adeyemi O. Sowole.

A statement issued on Saturday by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Dr. Reuben Abati, said that Jonathan extended deep and heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased and the governments and people of Kaduna and Bayelsa States, describing the sudden loss of the distinguished Nigerians as painful to the entire nation.

The statement added that President Jonathan has ordered an investigation into the cause of the Saturday crash.

In the same vein, Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has said that the death of Kaduna State Governor, Mr. Patrick Yakowa; a former National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen. Andrew Owoye Azazi and others in a helicopter crash was shocking and devastating.

Reacting to news of the deaths, Governor Uduaghan said that it was a big blow to the country particularly given the caliber of all the persons that were involved.

According to him, they are deaths too many for Nigeria and Nigerians to bear noting that this saddening development called for prayers.

A statement made available to Blank NEWS Online by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Sunny Ogefere said, “This is so sad and painful. It is devastating not just to me as an individual, but to our collective being as a nation.”

Uduaghan, while condoling with the government and people of Kaduna and Bayelsa states, families of the deceased and Nigerians over the fatalities, also prayed God Almighty to grant the souls of the departed eternal rest.

Also, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said it is “shocked beyond imagination concerning the death of two of its top members, Kaduna State governor, Patrick Yakowa, and former National Security Adviser (NSA), General Owoye Azazi in a military helicopter crash on Saturday.”

A a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh reads: “Our great party is shocked beyond imagination and no words can adequately give expression to the depth of our grief. What a colossal loss!”

“The nation has lost a great patriot who, in about two years in saddle as Governor of Kaduna State, demonstrated an unyielding capacity in wielding together varying fragile interests. He rendered quality stewardship to his people. Even in the face of daunting security challenges, nothing came close to compromising his iron cast resolve and faith that the phase must certainly pass.”

PDP said it is “unfortunate that the nation has lost the governor at this critical curve in our national history.”

Recall that a military helicopter conveying the immediate past National Security Adviser, General Owoye Azazi; Governor of Kaduna State, Patrick Yakowa and other dignitaries crashed Saturday in Yenogoa, Bayelsa State.

The helicopter reportedly burst into flames immediately after the crash, and all the passengers in the chopper  were confirmed dead.

They were returning from Bayelsa State, venue of the funeral of the father of Douglas Oronto, the special adviser to the president on strategy, when the helicopter crashed into the creeks.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has since recovered the bodies of the victims.

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The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Delta State Council is set to hold its maiden media week.

The union has slated al lecture titled ‘’Journalism; Why Ethics Matter’’ for Tuesday December 11th 2012 to be held at the Orchids Hotel, Asaba.

Prominent Constitutional lawyer and social activist, Festus Keyamo, Esq is billed to deliver paper at the event under the distinguished chairmanship of Prof Sylvester Monye, Special Adviser to the President on Performance Monitoring and Evaluation.

According to the Chairman of the Union, Comrade Nobert Chiazor, the media week becomes imperative in our bid to add value to the practice of journalism in Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.

He said the state council is identifying the area of need of our members concerning training and retraining, saying to get to the top of one’s career, definitely one needs a lot of training and exposure.

While maintaining that the program would be unique, he claimed in this age journalists have to be weary of what to write as the gatekeeper in the information process just as he said the union in the state cannot thank the members enough and the state government for their unflinching support.

The Chairman confirmed that there are various activities lined up for the event. ‘’We intend to have praises and prayers at St Mary Vianni Catholic Church, DBS Road in Asaba, awareness rally from NUJ Secretariat to the Permanent Site of the Union at Marian Babangida Road, Asaba , opening ceremony/lecture, visits to camps of flood victims on Sunday 9th, Monday 10th, Tuesday 11th December respectively’’.

Continuing, ‘’We shall cap it up with Gala Night/NUJ Awards at Orchids Hotel starting 7 00pm on Wednesday 12 December to celebrate practicing journalists in the state and country, some corporate institutions and few individuals we are proud of their contributions towards the progress of the nation in their endeavors,’’ he claimed.

The Special Adviser to Delta State Governor on Inter-Party Relations and former governorship candidate, Hon. Taju Sumonu Isichei has joined the league of prominent Deltans who have promised to support the maiden edition of the Delta Children Christmas Party scheduled to hold in Asaba, the state capital.

Hon. Taju Sumonu Isichei made the pledge when a delegation of the organisers, Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) and Zzaakkuuss Music & Entertainment and its committee members visited him in his office in Asaba.

Hon. Taju Sumonu Isichei, who commended the team for putting in place the Delta Children Christmas Party, assured that he would contribute his quota to encouraging children in the yuletide.

Chairman of the Delta Children Christmas Party and Chief Executive Officer of Zzakkuuss Music & Entertainment, Ngozi Azaka, lauded the efforts of Hon. Taju Sumonu Isichei in improving the lot of political parties in the state as well as enthrenching a new order in their political activities.

He noted that his entrant into the position of Special Adviser to Delta State Governor on Inter-Party Relations has also brought about harmony and understanding among the political parties.

The committee is made up of Ngozi Azaka, as Chairman, Ngozi Odiwe (Secretary), Ifeanyi Nwador (Project Director), Dew Wilson, Albert Ograka and Onome Tano in charge of publicity and Ufoma Okotie, in charge of welfare.

Recall that Hon. Taju Sumonu Isichei recently celebrated his 40th Birthday Anniversary on November 15, 2012 at Nelrose Hotels, Asaba, which was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.

The Special Adviser on Inter-Party Relations, who is popularly called “Ikuku”, is an acknowledged recipient of numerous merit awards of excellence due to his diligence, hardwork and philanthropy.

Taju contested the governorship election in Delta state under the auspices of the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) in 2007, where he emerged 3rd in the governorship poll. He was appointed state chairman of the party in 2009 and later elected chairman of all registered political parties in Delta state before re-contesting for the position of governor in the  April, 2011 governorship election.

He was however appointed Special Adviser on Inter-Party Relations by Governor Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan on August 9, 2011 to oversee the affairs of all the political parties as a result of his pedigree in human and organizational management.

On console, he is the “Sports Supremo”, having garnered myriad of experiences in global sports stardom and broadcasting, spanning over 19 years.

Your first impression about him will reveal a yet different personality, owing to his social life and ambience in revolutionizing sports in Nigeria and Africa, but he is meek, radiant and a jolly good fellow.

He has brought the sporting image of Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) Television and Radio in Asaba, the Delta state capital to limelight through his on the spot grip of major happenings in sports, especially football.

Sheddy, as he is commonly called by close friends, has radiated a lot of sporting life in his watchers on Television and listeners on Radio with glamorous applause from his audience whom he may have held captivated with his flare in sports analysis and up-to-date rummaging of general sports events.

His studio life is simple and apt as he prepares his scripts before hand and seeing him dash into the studio with less thought about usual preparation and rehearsals beats the imagination of media pundits.

His international and national repute in covering major sports events in the country has held him sway among his yearning contemporaries, especially at the FIFA U17 World Cup Championship in Abuja and Lagos held in 2009,  Nigerian Premier League, FA Cup and grass-root soccer championships.

He also had a short stay at the on-going National Sports Festival in Lagos, tagged “Eko 2012”.

He is a believer of grooming sports talents at their early stages of life, considering his personal football participation and background in the defunct Bendel Insurance in Benin where he was known as “The Black Cat.”

Although, Sheddy has a controversy in team support identity, owing to the fact that his wife is an Arsenal fan, his son a Manchester United fan and daughter a Chelsea fan, you can hardly unravel which particular team he throws his weight behind. Maybe because he loves all teams with the passion of a sports lover of all time.

It means well to meet the “Sports Supremo”, Shedrack Saxon Udu live on Console.

Delta state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has announced that henceforth Masters Degree would be the minimum qualification for lecturers in Higher Institutions of learning in the state, including Polytechnics and Colleges of Education.

He said this while briefing participants at the Economic Dashboard Implementation workshop, Thursday in Asaba, explaining that it was not acceptable in the present situation where there are many holders of Masters Degree seeking jobs, tertiary institutions in the state were still employing First Degree holders as Lecturers.

Dr Uduaghan said his administration lays great emphasis on education stressing that to achieve academic excellence in Higher Institutions of learning, a lecturer with First degree should not teach in tertiary institutions in the state.

He explained that the success of development programme in the state was anchored on education saying “Education is the key to the success of any program we are planning.”

Meanwhile he has directed that a comprehensive list of uncompleted projects in Higher Institutions of learning in the state be compiled saying that steps would be taken to ensure that they were completed.

He further said the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education was developing a partnership programme with DELSU to have a continuous program for the training and re-training of teachers for improved productivity.

The Governor who harped on the importance of monitoring in the education sector directed that all Inspectors of Education in the state should have a minimum of two years practical experience in the teaching, and that anyone without such experience should no longer be allowed to serve as an Inspector.

He said that for Inspectors of Education to diligently perform their duties, they must acquire the requisite knowledge and experience in the field.

“We noted that our children are doing well in internal exams (JSS 3 exams) but are not performing very well in external exams (SSS 3 exams). We have therefore established a strategy to encourage hard work and academic excellence in schools.”

The Governor also observed that there were more teachers in the urban areas than rural areas and enjoined the education ministry to redistribute teachers from the urban areas to the rural areas to balance teachers in schools.

In another development, no fewer than 40,000 youths are being targeted to be empowered in Delta state annually under the Skills Acquisition Programme of the State Government.

The State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan disclosed that currently, 7,000 youths were being empowered yearly at the different Skill Acquisition centres across the state.

According to him, the Government would intensify efforts to ensure that the target of 40,000 was met by establishing more skills acquisition centres and completing works on those under construction.

“We have agreed that boarding facilities be provided in the already established skill acquisition centres to make it easy for the youths to attend lectures.”

Delta state government is to close down all illegal health facilities in the state while housing units allocated to individuals but not yet occupied would also be revoked immediately.

The State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan said this during the Dashboard Implementation Workshop, designed to review the activities of Ministries and parastatals and prepare a road map that would improve the policies and programmes of the various ministries and parastatals in the state.

Uduaghan said that all clinics, nursing homes and pharmacies operating illegally or below the minimum required standard would be closed down forthwith.

Uduaghan, who affirmed that the State Government has made appreciable progress in the Health Sector with the State recording above the WHO standard on Doctor/hospital ratio as well as other paramedical staff ratio to the population of the state, however charged the staff in the sector to be more vigilant and diligent in their duties to ensure that the standard was improved upon.

Dr Uduaghan announced other conclusions reached at the Dashboard Implementation Workshopto to include embarking on mass housing programme which already has 1.5 billion naira set aside for the project.

While complaining that most investors in housing obtained Certificate Of Occupancy (C of O) from the state government and turned around to use such lands to obtain funds from financial houses for other projects, the governor said that the state government would further encourage the private sector to invest in the housing sector.

Governor Uduaghan also noted that his administration would stoutly resist any undue negative interference in the housing sector by members of his government and other influencial Deltans, saying that the state government is determined to deal with those attempting to frustrate the good intentions of government.

He therefore vowed that housing units already allocated to individuals accross the state but not yet occupied would face immediate revocation by the state government.

On the challenges posed by flooding, the Governor directed the Ministries of Works, Environment and Lands, Urban and Regional Development to jointly review the drainage system in Asaba to check flooding emanating from the Okpanam axis.

Besides, the Ministry of Transport was asked to have a database which could serve as reservoir of information for private sector investment on transport sector.

Similarly, the ministry is expected to embark on marine transportation to enable those in the riverine areas move around easily and at affordable cost.

Also, it was resolved that the State Government would pay promptly all certificates raised for jobs completed by contractors to encourage them to do more.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, at the weekend in Lagos, promised Team Delta a rosy package before the Christmas celebrations should they top the medals table at the ongoing National sports Festival.

Governor Uduaghan who gave the charge during a visit to the camp of the team and a number of venues for the different events, stressed that they must go for gold at all times.

“As you compete whether at medals level or not, put in your best as if a gold medal was at stake. You do not have to slack at any point in time”, he stated.

He charged the Team Delta contingent at the ongoing 18th National Sports Festival to be fully focused on their mission as adequate reward awaited every victorious outing.

The Governor commended the high spirit of the athletes which he said made possible their current top position on the medals table, and directed that athletes who lost in their events be retained in the camp as supporters for those still in the contest.

Apart from the Amina Hostel camp of the Team Delta at the University of Lagos, Uduaghan who was accompanied by the Chairman of the State Sports Commission, Mr Amaju Pinnick witnessed power lifting for the physically challenged, female weight lifting, Scrabble, Tennis events as well as the practice session by the track and field team.

Meanwhile, Governor Uduaghan posited that hosting of the national sport festival should be the responsibility of the Federal Government at all times.

Speaking while fielding questions from journalists at the ongoing 18th National Sports Festival in Lagos, he said that the fiesta should be hosted by the Federal Government at the national stadium, Abuja.

This, he noted will augur well more for the nationhood and unity of the country even as other individual sports competitions may be taken up by the states fo the federation.

The Governor also canvassed support for the idea of throwing open the National Sports Festival as it would enhance competition and bring out the best for the country.

In its relentless determination in making sure that Isoko nation of Delta state, South-South, Nigeria speak with one voice politically across the globe, an Isoko socio/political pressure group, Isoko Advancement Network (IAN), has concluded all arrangements to hold an enlarged interaction session with Isoko people in government and all Isoko people in general.

In a statement issued yesterday and signed by the group’s chairman, Hon. Mike Ogwah, made available to journalists in Asaba said the session which is aimed at promoting and agitating for the upliftment of Isoko land and the people will take place on Saturday, December, 8, 2012, at Regency Hall, Otunba Jobi-Fele way, MKO Abiola Gardens Hill, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, beginning at 10:00 am prompt.

According to Ogwah, it high time Isokos come together and speak with one indivisible voice and take their place in the politics of the state and the nation. “We believe in mutual interest, therefore, the progress and growth of every Isoko man is paramount to us.”

While enjoining all and sundry both far and near to attend the epoch making meeting that will no doubt bring light to Isoko nation, the group’s chairman, stated the meeting is timely and shall break all the political yoke militating against the growth and development of the land.

“The future holds great promises for the Isoko people and the Isoko nation. So we call on all our people to join us come Saturday, December, 8, 2012. The time has come that we must take our destiny in our own hands but we cannot achieve this if we don’t put our house in order and speak with one indivisible voice.”

Prominent Isoko sons and daughters including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Comrade Ovuozorie Macaulay are expected at the occasion.

AN ADDRESS BY THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER FOR HEALTH, DR. J.S. OTUMARA, ON THE FIFTH YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE FREE MATERNAL HEALTHCARE PROGRAMME IN DELTA STATE

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of the fourth estate, it is with all pleasure and gratitude to God that I address you on this memorable day which happens to be the fifth year anniversary of the free maternal healthcare programme.

INTRODUCTION
As part of its’ resolve in the global campaign to reduce maternal death, the Delta state government launched the free maternal healthcare programme at Central Hospital, Ughelli on the 26th of November, 2007 under the chairperson of Professor Adenike Grange, the then Minister of Health. This was in line with the human capital development of Governor Uduaghan’s led administration which had barely spent six months in office; a cardinal point of the administration’s three point agenda and a firm commitment to the cause of motherhood. Today, the programme is five years old and has recorded remarkable degree of success as reflected by the steady decline of the maternal mortality rate.
Since its inception, the state government has strived to improve the quality of care that pregnant women receive before, during and after they bring life into the world. The program has tremendously increased access to skilled birth attendants and has also led to availability of adequate necessary infrastructure, medical expertise and  equipment in secondary healthcare facilities in the state. It is currently been implemented in 57 state hospitals. It is a comprehensive package covering antenatal care and delivery including caesarean section, post natal care and treatment for ectopic pregnancy and complicated abortion, all free of charge.
Experience has shown that when services are offered free of charge there is increased utilization by people who hitherto would not patronize such services for fear of cost.  Presently, from available data, large populations of women now attend ANC services and deliver in state hospitals. So far in the last five years, we have recorded:
More than 250,000 booked ante-natal cases
More than 700,000 routine ante-natal cases
More than 100,000 deliveries as well as 100,000 live births

There is an observed significant drop of 48.5% in the Maternal Mortality Ratio i.e. from 456/100,000 in 2007 to 221/100,000 in 2011.
Computations are presently on-going to determine this year’s vital statistics. The other data as at 26th of November, 2011 compared to figures one year after commencement of the programme is as stated below:

s/n
Maternal indices
One year after  commencement of programme i.e. Nov, 2008

Four years after commencement of programme i.e. Nov, 2011
1
Perinatal mortality
48/1,000 live births
41/1,000 live births
2
Caesarean Section rate
10%
12%
3
HIV prevalence
3.6%
2.8%

Statistically, over the years the identified major causes of maternal deaths were:
Eclampsia – 39.5%

Haemorrhage – 22.1%

Sepsis – 6.4%

Prolong obstructive labour – 12.8%

Measures taken to address and thus reduce death from these causes include:

The introduction of MgSO4 as part of our armamentarium in the fight against hypertensive diseases/eclampsia in pregnancy
Provision of blood to avert death from haemorrhage; also there is plan to establish a state blood transfusion service
Emphasis on active management of labour with early intervention and improved infection control measures

However, majority of these death occur amongst the unbooked mothers and as a way out, enlightenment of the benefit of early booking is continuously carried out. Suffice to say, that Her Excellency, the 1ST Lady, Mrs Roli Uduaghan, undertook extensive enlightenment campaign at the initiation of the programme in all the 25 local government areas of the state as part of her contribution to save motherhood from preventable maternal deaths.

MANPOWER AND TRAINING
Like all things that are free, there has been a massive turn out of women accessing this service, thus stretching the manpower and facilities in our various hospitals to their limit, overwhelming medical personnel and facilities. Particularly affected are the Central Hospitals in Warri, Sapele, Ughelli and Agbor and the General Hospitals in Ekpan and Okwe-Asaba. These six hospitals alone accounted for (61.48%) of the total bookings and (55.9%) of the total deliveries. Influx of patients from neighbouring states such as Anambra, Edo and Bayelsa have been observed respectively in General hospital Okwe, Central hospital Agbor and Central hospital Ughelli.
Consequently, strengthening the state medical workforce by way of engagement of doctors, nurses, pharmacist, laboratory scientist and other health personnel through painstaking recruitment process, have been undertaken to meet up with this challenge.
Several training workshops to strengthen the capacity of our doctors and nurses have  been held from time to time. One of such, was  training workshop on the use of magnesium sulphate and misoprostol which was organized as a response to tackle the major causes of maternal mortality which was pregnancy induced hypertension/eclampsia. This action alone contributed immensely to the much improved results we have today.

PROVISION OF EQUIPMENT
The increased number of  patients have placed high demand on existing equipment and facilities and as such government embarked on specialized upgrading of equipment amongst which was the provision of sonicaid fetal monitoring devices, delivery beds, cardiotocograph and other obstetric’s equipment. Expansion and renovation of existing facilities were also undertaken to accommodate this persistent challenge of patients upsurge. Still not relenting on its oars, dedicated generators were provided for the six Central Hospitals including General hospitals Okwe and Ekpan to ensure uninterrupted service delivery at the labour room.

MONITORING AND EVALUATION
Monitoring remains critical in the success of the programme as it not only ensures that women do not have to pay at the point of receiving care but also ensures that the treatment guidelines is adhered to. The data generated in the various hospitals is evaluated monthly.
Thus, at the zonal level, the hospitals hold monthly meetings at their zonal headquarters in order to deliberate on the data generated by the hospitals in each zone with particular emphasis on the review of mortality and proffer solutions for averting re-occurrence after which a copy of the report is made available to the Ministry. The programme, thus, provides a reliable source of regular data for monitoring and evaluation of maternal health in the state
At the State level, meetings with the Obstetricians and other health personnel involved in birth attendance at the various hospitals were held with a view to improving the programme.

PROVISION OF DRUGS
The Delta state government through its Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) has continually ensured that drug supply to the hospitals is constant so that pregnant women are assured of genuine drugs and are not compelled to pay for drugs outside due to problems of out of stock.

CHALLENGES
This ranges from influx of patients from neighbouring states which have greatly increased the total number of patients beyond our projection to delay in referrals from churches, prayer houses and TBAs. These outlets are ill-equipped with poorly trained personnel to recognize and manage high risk patients. Often they are reluctant in referring patients until it is too late. However, there is still a fraction of women who prefer delivering at home or with a TBA. This as it were has also had its own share of unfortunate stories.

CONCLUSION
The target of the Millenium Development Goal 5 is reduction by 75% of the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) by 2015. As it stands, the MMR for the State is 221 per 100,000 as against 456 per 100,000 at inception of the programme. Thus, we have been able to achieve 48.5% reduction of the MMR before the deadline of 2015 – a significant achievement.
Further reduction of the MMR to attain the goal of MDG 5 by 2015, will require sustenance of the political will of government, enduring commitment of health personnel, continued patronage by our pregnant mothers, diligent coordination by the Ministry and the support of the media.
Our gratitude goes to God for the achievement so far and all hands are on deck to realize the target sooner than 2015.

Thank you very much and may God bless you all.

The Speaker House of Representative, Hon Aminu Tambuwal has said that no amount of blackmail or intimidation would prevent the House from going ahead with the Oil Subsidy report.

The Speaker who announced this while declaring open the Delta State House of Assembly Public Lecture to mark its first anniversary said those found wanting would be held accountable for their actions.

He assured Nigerian that irrespective of the present diversionary tactics of some people the house would stand firm and the report would be implemented.

Hon. Tambuwal said it was unfortunate that people would go at any length to make Nigerians loose confidence in the report, but gave the assurance that the house was irrevocably committed to the report.

The Speaker who used the occasion to call for working synergy between the legislature and executive said it was only through that process Nigerian would enjoy dividends of democracy.

He stressed the need for the three arms of government to be mutually complimentary and accord each other the required degree of respect to ensure that the welfare of citizens and their living standard form the nucleus of all policies and programmes.

Hon. Tambuwai however called on the legislature to exercise its function religiously especially as the legislature remained the trustee of the people.

He described the functions of the legislature as very sensitive in the sense that it touched the very fabric of the society and enjoined members to live above board, ensure that probity, transparency and accountability should remain their watch word at all times.

“I encourage the legislature to engage in public enlightenment programmes to sensitize the people of their roles and achievemenst in order to carry them along in governance. The three arms of government should complement each other to serve the people better.”

Speaking at the occasion, the state governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan stated that his administration was working harmoniously with the different arms of government to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.

He explained that the major challenges of the state were security, human capital development and infrastructural development stressing that his administration has created a conducive environment to tackle the challenges.

Speaking further, he said that job creation was one of the programmes his administration was using to solve the challenges of kidnapping and other criminal issues facing the state adding that he was also building a state beyond oil to prepare for the raining day.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan observed that his administration cannot achieve its goals without the co-operation of the legislature and commended members of the assembly for their support.

“We cannot achieve our goal as a state without the legislature, that is why we take the development of our legislature in Delta state seriously. The legislature has been supportive to the state policies.

He continued “There has been co-operation between the government and legislature. Whatever decisions the legislature and executive take is for the benefit of all Deltans. I assure you that we will continue to work together.”

In his opening address, the host Speaker Hon. Victor Ochei said the Delta State House of Assembly was partnering with arms of government in order to move the state forward.

He thanked governor Uduaghan for his continuous support and interest shown in the affairs of the assembly and pledged the Assembly’s co-operation at all times.

He explained that the legislature and executives were agents of transformation and charged the two organs to avoid disunity that would endanger their progress.

“We must take advantage of our positions and be agents of change to serve the people better.”

The 1st lecture on the role of the legislature is an emerging democracy was delivered by Prof. Micheal Ikahriale, where he stated that the major function of the legislature was law making.

He explained that the legislature have a vital role to play in enhancing the nascent democracy in the country and charged legislators to live above board.

Professor Fidelis Odita who delivered the 2nd lecture on the role of legislature in a representative democracy explained that legislators should be mindful of their functions and be good representatives of the populace.

He noted that evidence have shown that corrupt practices existed among some legislators but called on them to ensure that they put their house in order to gain the confidence of those who elected them.

Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan has vowed to press ahead with the state green economy initiative as this will alleviate poverty and ensure sustainable development of Delta state in line with his vision of ‘Delta beyond oil’.

He made this declaration in Rio, Brazil, during the United Nation’s Sustainable Development conference, at the panel of Governors of R20 members, led by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, (former governor of California) an international organization, committed to combating climate change by building climate resilient projects.

The Governor, who is the Vice Chairman of R20 (Africa and Middle East), expressed frustration at the inability of national governments to make progress in reaching agreement on how to tackle climate change.

He however expressed the hope that through sub-national governments, some actions are being taken, stating that Delta state is serious about its climate change programme, adding: “Delta desires to diversify her energy economy from overreliance on traditional fossil fuel and environmentally degrading sources to clean and renewable sources.

“The state and the Niger delta region particularly as I have often said, has suffered a lot of environmental degradation.  The livelihood of our people particularly farmers, fishermen, etc., have been eroded.

“Our focus is to ensure we develop projects that not only help address this problem but that is also economically sustainable. We also need to find a way of using green economy to create jobs and alleviate poverty of the poor in our society” he added.

Meanwhile, on his return from the United Nation’s Sustainable Development conference in Rio, Brazil to Delta state, Governor Uduaghan has directed the construction company handling the drainage system in Asaba to work day and night and complete work within the next two weeks.

Dr. Uduaghan who gave the directive while inspecting the progress of work on the drainage system reiterated his determination to check flooding and keep Asaba dry.

He therefore appealed to residents in Asaba to bear with the government as it was making effort to complete work on shedule.

“The residents of Asaba should be patient with the state government. The drainage work on major roads will be completed in the next two weeks and flooding will become a thing of the past in the state capital.”

The governor said the present effort would channel water from Okpanam axis as well as the Mariam Babangida way down to Anwai River and completely elimenate the present flooding in some of those areas.

Standing strategically on top of the drainage system he directed the Commissioner for Works, and Environment, to provide temporary measure on the Mariam Babangida way pending the long term connection of the road to the major drainage system on Anwai Road.

He was optimistic that when completed the present drainage system would check   flooding and keep all the major roads in the town dry and healthy.

In answer to a question, Dr. Uduaghan said the problem of DLA road was not only that of  drainage system but that of compensation because residents built houses carelessly without adhering to town planning rules.

He disclosed that to do proper drainage system and reconstruct the road, the state government would pay heavy compensation even as he explained that, in the alternative house built without approval would be demolished.

“The DLA road contract has been awarded,  what the road requires is a major drainage, we will pay compensation on the legal structures that will be demolished but will not pay compensation on the illegal structures build along the channels.”

Responding, the Managing Director of Modis Construction Nigeria Limited, Mr. Peter Karim explained that the company was working tirelessly to ensure that the drainage system was completed on scheduled.

He observed that the flood along Okpanam road through Inter-bau rounabout would be channelled to Anwai River by weekend to solve the current menace.

“We are working hard to ensure that this drainage system is completed by weekend. The flood will be channelled from Okpanam road through Inter-Bau to Anwai River. In the next few weeks there will be no flooding in this area.”

Delta State Deputy Governor, Prof. Amos Utuama (SAN) on Wednesday blamed the sordid state of the country’s prisons on the fact that they are under the exclusive legislative list and has called for a constitutional amendment that would bring prisons under the concurrent list.

Utuama, receiving the Presidential Advisory Committee on Prerogative of Mercy on courtesy call on Wednesday, noted that including prisons under the concurrent list would enable states to build and run prisons alongside the federal government.

This, he explained would bring healthy competition between the states and federal prisons and thereby improve the conditions of prisons across the country, adding that a society devoid of such competition would not make progress.

According to him, under the current arrangement, there was little state governments could do to improve prison facilities in their states since the matter does not fall under their brief.

“Part of the problem with our prisons is the federal nature of these prisons. Naturally, it is what you have that you take care of. Many things have been over centralised in this country for reasons I don’t know.

“It is my considered opinion that prisons ought to be on the concurrent lists, that way there would be a two stream of prison system in this country, since some offences are against the state and others against the federal government.”

Utuama urged the committee to prevail on Mr. President to put prisons in the concurrent legislative list so that both states and federal governments could build separate prisons to engender competition.

He informed that the administration of Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan has embarked on several measures under its human capital development agendum like payment of school certificate examinations fees, bursary and scholarships to remove the youths from crime.

The deputy governor also called for the introduction of a fast track system into criminal trials as a way of addressing the problem of awaiting trial inmates and prison congestion.

“Most of the awaiting trial could be federal offences; in that case the attorney general of the federation can give a fiat to the state attorney general to prosecute federal offences.”