In a landmark judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim on Thursday, the Apex court declared that it is unconstitutional for State Governments to withhold and utilise allocations meant for Local Government Areas without transferring the funds to them, as mandated by Section 162(3) of the Constitution. 
The seven-man panel of Supreme Court Justices led by Justice Garba Lawal delivered the ruling on Thursday, July 11, 2024.

The Supreme Court ruled that the Nigerian Government must pay funds allocated to Local Governments directly to the respective Local Government Areas, which are managed by democratically elected officials. 

This ruling aims to ensure that Local Governments receive their rightful allocations, promoting decentralisation and grassroots development.

The apex Court Initially heard the suit between the federal and State government on the autonomy of local government on June 13 and its reserved judgment.

The suit marked SC/CV/343/2024 was filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and it sought full autonomy and direct fund allocation to the 774 local government areas (LGAs) in the country.

Fagbemi requested the Supreme Court to order that funds for LGAs managed by caretaker committees appointed by governors, rather than elected chairmen and councillors, be withheld.

• Watch out for details…

By Austen Akhagbeme

The UK human rights lawyer, Keir Starmer, did not appeal to many as a firebrand politician when the campaign for the just concluded UK general elections began six weeks ago. His ordinariness and humble background could not be compared with the elitist roots of his Conservative Party counterpart, Rishi Sunak.

He was most derided as dull and caricatured as a mere “Lefty London Lawyer”. But his tenacity as an opposition leader for four years and his managerial acumen have helped to drag his social democratic Party to the mainstream of politics again, with a historic election victory in 14 years.

Rishi Sunak, the defeated Tory Prime Minister and the first British-Asian to rise to that position equally made history, albeit a bad one. He led his Party to its worst defeat in its 190-year history, the reason Sunak will not be forgiven in a hurry by the Tories, especially with his election gambit.

Over a decade of disastrous leadership by the conservatives, was enough for the average voter to turn the tide against anything Tory.

This was aptly demonstrated by the loss of seats by many top conservative figures, including the former Prime Minister Liz Truss, who lost her seat to Labour. Even the seats previously held by top conservative figures and former Prime Ministers like David Cameron, Theresa May and Boris Johnson, were all swept away by this new tidal wave.

Even though one may argue that there are no moral, ideological or sociological grounds for comparison between the UK political system and that of Nigeria, certain thoughts need to be aired from the simple conduct of the elections to the people’s resolve for a change by changing the party in power.

The election which gave the Tories a bloody nose and its worst-ever defeat in over a century, was orchestrated by public anger over a scandalous, non-performing and haughty leadership of the conservatives that resulted in a stuttering economy, a wobbling public service and unclear policy thrust of the government of the day.

The Emergence, as it were, of the APC government in Nigeria was said to have been hinged on the supposed “cluelessness” of the PDP, despite its hollow ubiquity in the Nigerian political space for over a decade on one hand and the dwindling economy and poverty, on the other.

It is now obvious, just as it is, that changing political parties and their leadership in Nigeria does not amount to any change, whatsoever, in her economy or body polity. After all, the fluidity of the Nigerian ruling elite and their penchant for jumping from one political party to another may not give room for this.

Nevertheless, the simple and seamless conduct of the UK general elections painfully reminds us of the rancorous, controversial and violent conduct of our last general elections in Nigeria.

The declared result was “in tandem” with a measurable expectation of the people (who were very determined to throw away the Tories) by the opinion polls conducted before the election. Ours, in Nigeria, are not measurably predicted because they can always be swayed by the highest bidder. We still have a long way to go in Nigeria.

• Austen Akhagbeme is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online

The European Union has offered postgraduate scholarships to 142 young Nigerians in top European universities in the 2024-25 academic session, under its flagship educational programme, Erasmus+.

Nigeria with this number, retains its number one spot among beneficiaries of the EU postgraduate scholarships in Africa for the 6th year, as well as a place among the top five recipient countries globally.

At a pre-departure orientation organised for the scholarship awardees in Abuja on Thursday, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms Samuela Isopi, underlined the significance of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) programme, now in its 20th year, with its highly transformative impact on individuals, higher education institutions, and countries both within and outside of the EU.

The 142 Nigerian EMJMD awardees are among the initial batch of beneficiaries, announced by the organisers of the programme in Brussels. The number is likely to increase. Most of awardees will start their Erasmus plus journey in September 2024. The pre-departure orientation aimed to provide the recipients with hands-on tips on how to make the best of the immense opportunities inherent in the prestigious scholarship.

The programmes that will run for 12-24 months, with each beneficiary studying in at least three different universities in as many countries within and outside the EU during the period.

The Nigerian awardees have been admitted into some of the most in-demand cutting-edge programmes including: Renewables-based Power Systems, Chemical Innovation and Regulation, Public Health in Disasters, Bio refinery, European MSc in Marine Environment 2030, Soils science, Systems for Sustainable Engineering, Sustainable Mineral and Metal Processing Engineering, Sustainable Ship and Shipping – and several more.

On the successful completion of the programme, an EMJMD scholar will receive a master degree to be jointly awarded by a consortium of universities, in the framework of the EMJMD programme – a key component of Erasmus+.

Over the last two decades, Erasmus Mundus has brought together top universities from all over the EU and beyond to jointly organise excellent Master’s courses, merging the best parts of each national programme to form a new, integrated and unique international study programme. The programme offers a unique appeal to prospective students, with its high academic standards, unparalleled mobility paths and attractive financial support.

The EU has been ramping up support to Nigeria’s higher education sector through its key funding programmes – Erasmus+ in the higher education sector, and Horizon Europe for research and innovation.

Erasmus+ offers many opportunities apart from its flagship scholarship programmes: it supports mobility and short stays in Europe for researchers, students and staff, capacity-building of universities and TVET institutions through joint projects with sister European institutions, etc. Horizon Europe offers opportunities for Nigeria-based researchers and research institutions, in particular through the “Africa Initiative II”, which is addressed to African scientists.

The EU’s support for education in Nigeria aligns to national objectives and focuses on equitable access to quality education and teacher training. In its education sector support, the EU works with the governments of Kano, Sokoto, Jigawa, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Oyo, Katsina, Enugu and Plateau states.

The projects aim at strengthening the education system, increase the use of digital technology for teaching, learning and system management, and mainstream green skills and knowledge by investing EUR 45.4 million, in total during, 2021-2027 in the education projects.

BY SUNNY A. DAVID

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has sworn in the newly confirmed Transition Committee Chairmen of the 21 Local Government Areas of the State, charging them to serve the public interest and prioritize the welfare of the people.

The inauguration marks a new chapter in the State’s grassroots governance, with the TC Chairmen expected to work closely with the State government to deliver democratic dividends to the people.

The event took place on Wednesday, 3rd July, 2024, at the Anambra State Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Awka.

The swearing-in follows the confirmation of their appointment by the State House of Assembly in line with Section 208 of the Local Government Law, 1999 as amended, as requested by the Governor.

The newly sworn-in Chairmen are, Ifeanyi Chiweze (Anambra East); Fidelis Nnazo (Anambra West); Romanus Ibekwe (Anaocha);Chinedu Okafor (Awka South), Alphonsus Ofumele (Ayamelum); Chijioke Ozumba (Dunukofia) and Stanley Nkwoka (Idemili North).

Others are Chinedu Ononiba (Njikoka); Val Ezeogidi (Nnewi South); Franklin Nwadialo (Ogbaru); Anthony Nwora (Onitsha North); Casmir Nwafor (Orumba North) and Shedrack Azubuike (Orumba South).

Eight of them were re-appointed and they include, Chibuike Ofobuike (Aguata); Thankgod Aniagor (Awka North); Amaka Obi (Idemili South), Emeka Orji (Onitsha South); Anayo Orjiakor (Ihiala); Chris Obiora (Nnewi North); Chimezie Obi (Ekwusigo) and Emma Nweke (Oyi).

By Ben Ijeoma Adigwe Esq.

                THE RIGHT TO DIE IN NIGERIA*

Euthanasia is defined as the act or practice of killing or permitting the death of hopelessly sick or injured individuals (such as persons or domestic animals) in a relatively painless way for reasons of mercy. (“Euthanasia 2024”)   Euthanasia is defined as the act or practice of killing or permitting the death of hopelessly sick or injured individuals (such as persons or domestic animals) in a relatively painless way for reasons of mercy. (“Euthanasia 2024”)     Euthanasia is the intentional termination of life by another at the explicit request of the person who wishes to die. It is defined as “an easy, quiet and painless death.” (Seymour) It is further stated that euthanasia involves “putting an end to the lives of people with incurable or terminal illness of unbearable suffering” (Greif).

 Etymologically, the word is a derivative of two Greek words ‘Euthukos‘ which means’ good cheer’, ‘courage’ or ‘cheerful’ and‘thanatos‘ which means ‘death’ (Okonkwo and Naish) Another name for it is mercy killing. Patients who choose euthanasia see that they would die anyway but they choose to have control over the dying process and avoid the huge medical cost that would be imposed on loved ones if they continue to live. A family’sfinancial resources could be wrecked by such diseases.  The individual elects to die rather with dignity.

 Euthanasia is criminalized in most countries of the world.  Ireland, Colombia, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the States of Oregon and Washington all have laws permitting euthanasia. Belgium in 2014 removed all age restrictions of euthanasia. It was the first to so do. According to reports, 3 % of deaths in the Netherlands are attributed to euthanasia. (Lütje et al.)

 The Bible says “Thou shall not kill.” Both the Catholics and the Protestants reject euthanasia. There is also in Christianity the belief that God can miraculously intervene to ease the sufferings of even those who are to be euthanatized. Muslims rejecteuthanasia since the Koran states in Chapter 4 verse 29 as follows: “do not kill yourselves, for verily Allah has been most merciful.” Allah is the giver of life.  

  In the African society, suicide and euthanasia are taboos. The belief is that God owns life and he alone can terminate it. In pre-colonial times, suicides were thrown into  Evil Forests, but in this era, these people are given the most undignified burial, buried facing the earth (upside-down) so that such an individual does not return to the earth by reincarnation—since he has loathed the world. Fines are also imposed on their family beforetheir burial. I once had the misfortune of witnessing the burial of a suicide somewhere in Nigeria. He was buried “unwept, unhonoured, and unsung.” (Bartlett) The Hippocratic Oath which Doctors swear to, forbids euthanasia. (Smith)  

  The arguments put forward against Euthanasia/Assisted Suicide are that : (a) Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide constitute an attempt by man to play God. (b) It devalues human life i.e. undermine the sacredness of human life. (c) It can quickly become a selfish and short cut technique of health care cost reduction (d) It amounts to an act of cruelty, rather than an act of kindness (e) It is against natural rules of human interactions (f) In the case of doctors it is against the Hippocratic oath (g) There exists a “slippery slope” effect that can develop if there is a legalization of euthanasia/assisted suicide.

Euthanasia can be categorized under six headings, to wit:passive euthanasia; active euthanasia; physician-assisted suicide; voluntary euthanasia; involuntary euthanasia; and non-voluntary euthanasia. (Omipidan)

 In passive euthanasia, death is hastened by altering the support of the victim for example stopping his drugs or other treatment, or turning off the life support. In active euthanasia, the physician actually causes the death at the request of the patient. In doctor-assisted suicide, the physician proffers information or supplies the means of committing the suicide. In voluntary euthanasia,the victim requests that the physician should end his or her life. Here the patient is fully aware and conscious of the implications of the whole process. Voluntary euthanasia could either bevoluntarily active or involuntarily passive. In voluntarily active, the physician at the request of the patient gives medication that causes death. In voluntary passive, the patient dies for example when his treatment is stopped. In involuntary euthanasia, the patient is killed even though he has not expressly requested it,for example where the patient is in a continuous vegetative state and the killer considers that it is in the best interest that his life be ended.

   There is no particular law regulating euthanasia in Nigeria. The legislation on euthanasia and assisted suicide is integrated in the penal laws of the country and consequently statutory. Also pertinent to the legislation on euthanasia and assisted dying are the human rights provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) which provides a constitutional component to euthanasia law in Nigeria. The relevant sections of these legislation and the constitution should now be studied. 

There are two basic statutes covering the criminal laws of Nigeria. These are the Criminal Code Act (applicable to the Southern states of Nigeria) and the Penal Code (applied to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja and other Northern States). These Penal laws contain a substantial number of provisions that directly or indirectly relate to the practice of euthanasia and assisted suicide as may be derived from a careful review of these prominent sections. In this respect, the criminal and penal codes being the primary penal enactments in Nigeria shall be of particular importance. 
A number of Criminal Code laws relate either directly or otherwise to euthanasia and assisted suicide. For instance, under the Act, any type of killing of any person (euthanasia clearly including) is prohibited unless such killing is permitted, justified or forgiven by law. 
25
Therefore, except as mentioned out, any person who causes the death of another directly or indirectly, by any means whatever is held to have killed that other person. 26 In any of these instances, an offender may be found guilty of murder or manslaughter, depending on the facts of the case .27 In the instance of the former, the stipulated punishment is a mandatory sentence of death. 28 Whilst in the latter, it is life imprisonment. Under the Code, the offence of murder is defined as comprising the following:“…… A person who unlawfully killsanother under any of the following circumstances, that is to say- (1) If the offender intends to cause the death of the person killed, or that of some other person; (2) If the offender intends to do to the person killed or to some other person some grievous harm; (3) If death is caused by means of an act done in the prosecution of an unlawful purpose which act is of such a nature as to be likely to endanger human life; (4) If the offender intends to do greviousharm to some  person for the purpose of facilitating the commission of an offence which is such that the offender may be arrested without warrant or for the purpose facilitating the flight of an offender who has committed or attempted to commit any such offence; (5) If death is caused by administering any stupefying or over overpowering things for either of the purposes aforesaid;
(6) If death iscaused by willfullystopping the breath of any person for either of such purposes29. Under this section, it is immaterial that the official did not intend to hurt the particular person who is killed. Other than the preceding scenarios, a person who illegally kills another in such circumstances as not to constitute murder is guilty of manslaughter. 
Similarly, under the acceleration of death section of the Criminal code, a person who hastens the death of another person who, when the act is done or the omission is made is laboring under some disorderor disease arising from another cause is deemed to have killed that other person.30This rule pretty plainly refers directly to the practice of euthanasia and assisted suicide in all but name. under addition to this, the practice of assisted suicide is expressly constituted an offence under section 326 of the code. Underthis provision; “Any person who- (1) Procures another to kill himself, or (2) Counsels another to kill himself and thereby induces him to do so or, (3) Aid another in killing himself is guilty of a felony and is liable to imprisonment for life.”31 
Consent by a person to the causing of his own death does not change the criminal responsibility of any person by whom such death is caused. It is thus not a defense under the law to assert a defense of consent. 
32 From the above any individual, physician or other health care who at a patient’s request, gives a deadly injection or drug on a patient, would be criminally responsible for murder, manslaughter or assisted suicide depending on the facts and circumstances of the case. 
The Penal Code, like the criminal code, provides the offence of murder and manslaughter. Although the code prefers to refer to them as culpable homicide punishable with death, 40for murder and culpable homicide not punishable with death,41formanslaughter. The definition of these offences is largely the same as that of the criminal code before discussed. The prescribed penalties are likewise identical. Under the Penal Code, abatement of suicide of persons lacking in legal ability such as a juvenile under the age of 18, mad person, a delirious person, any fool or any person in a condition of drunkenness in committing suicide is criminalized and rendered punishable with death. 
42 In the same vein, abatement  of suicide usually is declared an offence punishable for a term which may reach to 10 years in addition to a fine.43 
Furthermore, as in the case of the criminal code, under the penal code; whoever administers to or causes to be taken by any person any prison or any stupefying, intoxicating or unwholesome drug or things with intent to cause hurt to that person or with intent to commit or to facilitate the commission of an offence or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby cause hurt, shall be punishedwith imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years and shall also be liable to fine.44 
In the light of the above, it is obvious that the practice of euthanasia and assisted suicide is criminalized under the criminal Penal code of Nigeria. The extent to which this is true within the context of the constitution must now be considered. 
As regards Euthanasia under the 1999 constitution of Nigeria, It is clear that under the legal framework in Nigeria, the 1999 Constitution (as modified) is supreme and its provisions must prevail. Where any other legislation is inconsistent with the constitution, to the extent of such discrepancy, that other law(s) shall be void.45 
A significant component of the constitution is established in chapterIV of the constitution. Under this chapter, extensive requirements relating to the recognition and preservation of basic fundamental Human rights are contained. Perhaps the greatest gift of mankind as far as law is concerned is the evolution of Fundamental Human Rights as inalienable rights.” 
46Therefore, in keeping with global best practice, and the country’streaty responsibilities, the constitution of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) incorporates core human rights guarantees. Someof these rules have direct influence on the legislation and practice of Euthanasia and assisted suicide. These provisions include the right to life, human dignity, liberty, privacy, freedom of thought, conscience and religion freedom from discrimination, torture, human or humiliating treatment etc. Accordingly under the constitution, the right to life is protected. 47 Under this clause, every person has a right to life and consequently no one shall be deprived deliberately of his life, unless in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of a criminal crime of which he has been found guilty in Nigeria. The Constitution additionally grants other rights .For the purpose of this paper, specific mention must be given to the following: right to human dignity48 under which there is freedom from torture or in human or humiliating treatment freedom from all types of discrimination,49 think Conscience and religion50, right to personal liberty etc.51 
From the reading of the constitution, there is no question that the right to life is the most significant of all rights captured by the constitution. No wonder therefore that substantial efforts is obvious to try to dissuade its truncation save as authorised for under the law. Nonetheless, it is claimed that this right to life cannot be interpreted in isolation or irrespective of other provisions of the constitution, particularly as they pertain to human rights. This opinion is strengthened by a multiplicity of judicial decisions of the Nigerian Supreme Court pertinent to this problem, where the Nigerian supreme Court has clearly highlighted the appropriate course to adopt in constitutional interpretation. In this respect, the Supreme Court has declared explicitly that Constitutional provisions, particularly as they pertain to fundamental human rights must be read widely and jointly and not disjointedly. In other words, what is referred to as the “whole or community reading rule” must be implemented. This was the ruling of the apex court in the following cases: 
1. NafiuRabiuv. State5criminalized and made punishable with death. 
42 

Thus in the case of State v Okezi the accused who was a native doctor prepared some charms for the deceased which is said to be able to make one bullet proof. The deceased then invited theaccused to test the charm on him by firing shot at him. The accused shot him in the chest and killed him. He was convicted of murder.

A few people have advocated that the criminal code which came into being on 1^st June 1916 is not in touch with modern realitiesin its wholesale ban on euthanasia. And in Medical and DentalPractitioners Disciplinary Tribunal v. John Okonkwo, The Supreme Court seems to have impliedly approved passiveeuthanasia in Nigeria. In this instance, the patient Mrs. Martha Okorie, her husband and one Dr. John EmewuluOkonkwo are all members of the Jehovah’s Witness Christian religious organisation. This sect of Christianity firmly embraces the concept that blood transfusion is opposed to God’s injunctions for Christians not to “eat blood”. The patient, having delivered a baby experienced post-delivery issue and was hospitalised to one Kanayo Specialist hospital for  a period of 9 days. A diagnostic was undertaken and it was determined that she had a critical condition for which blood transfusion was required but she refused transfusion. She was on this reason released from the hospital with a letter saying she rejected transfusion and that she could die.She was transferred to another hospital where the respondent, Dr. Okonkwo practices, by her husband. Here, she provided the doctor with a card ordering that in line with her rights as a patient and her convictions as a Jehovah’s Witness, no blood transfusion should be carried out on her. She also exonerated the healthcare professionals of the institution from accountability. Her husband likewise completed a similar agreement. The doctor consequently went ahead to treat her without blood transfusion in line with her instructions. She subsequently died. The doctor in charge, Dr. Okonkwo was subsequently brought before the medical and Dental Practitioner’s disciplinary tribunal on 2 charges of acting counter to his oath of profession and negligence. The tribunal found him guilty on the charges and he was suspended from practice for 6 months. He appealed to the Court of Appeal and his Appeal succeeded. Upon a further Appeal by the tribunal to the Supreme Court, the apex Court held (unanimously dismissing the appeal), that the patient was well within her legal and constitutional rights to decline medical treatment which include blood transfusion and the doctor could not have done anything infringing this right. 

According to Ayoola JSC: 

The patient’s constitutional right to object to medical treatment or particularly, as in this case, to blood transfusion on religious grounds is founded on fundamental rights protected by the 1979 constitution as follows: (1) Right to privacy: Section 34, (ii) right to freedom of thought , conscience and religion, section 35. All of these are preserved in section 37 and 38 of the 1999 Constitution respectively. The right to privacy implies a right to protect one’s thought, conscience or religious beliefs’ and practice from coercive and unjustified intrusion and one’s body from unauthorized invasion. The right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion implies a right not to be prevented, without lawful justification from choosing the course of one’s life…. if a competent adult patient exercising his right to reject lifesaving treatment on religious grounds thereby chooses a path that may ultimately lead to his death, in the absence of judicial intervention overriding the patient’s decision, what meaningful option is the practitioner left with other than perhaps to give the patient’s comfort. More so against the back drop of the fact that prevailing medical ethical practice does not without exceptional demand that all efforts towards life prolongation be made in all circumstance,  but seems to recognize that the dying are often in need of comfort than treatment”.

In line with the above judicial decision, it is arguable that the wholesale prohibition of euthanasia by our penal and criminal codes is against the constitutional provisions that guarantee the rights to liberty, self-determination, dignity of the person, freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, and against discrimination and therefore null and void.  The right to life guaranteed by section 33 of the 1999 Nigerian constitution (as amended) should not be read in isolation but in connection with other provisions regarding human rights. It was the cerebral Professor Stephen Hawkins who said that to keep someone alive against his wishes is the ultimate indignity.

In the very recent case of Tega Esabunor v. Dr. Tunde Faweya,the Supreme Court restated the position saying that “it is longsettled that an adult who is conscious and in full control of hismental capacity and of a sound mind has the right to either accept or refuse blood transfusion (medical treatment). There isa right to freedom of choice, but when it involves a child different considerations apply because he is incapable of making a decision for himself and the law would intervene to protect such a person from abuse of his right as he may grow up and disregard those religious beliefs.” In that case, the parents of a child had insisted that the blood transfusion, which the Doctor prescribed, should not be administered as it was against their beliefs as Jehovah’s Witnesses.

In our local communities in Nigeria, there is a mysteriouspractice common in the days of yore where men prepare a special potent charm which they hang up on their wall, it beingunderstood and believed that the person who owns such a charm will never die unless the charm is brought down and touches the floor. As incredible as it sounds, it is a widely held belief. A senior Anioma citizen, Chief J. E. Adigwu, said he has seen such a charm among his people. Among the Anioma people of Delta State Nigeria, it is called idahi. Among the Yoruba people of South West Nigeria, it is called Gbekude. Among the Urhobosit is called obe-ru uyovwi. There is a common consensus wherever this practice has been noticed that the owners of such charms keep on living in spite of debilitating, distressingdiseases as long as the charm is hung up. The individual may begin to rot or be in a vegetative state but keep living. In suchcircumstances the man could voluntarily tell them to bring it down or the family members could search it out and bring it down to the floor, whereupon the man would then breathe his last. This, it is submitted, qualifies as a form of euthanasia in as much as the dying process is controlled. However, this is no longer commonly practiced in these modern times

.

Aniocha North Labour Party chairmanship candidate, Dr. Augustine Ojogbo has promised to build mega projects in the council area if elected into office.
Dr. Ojogbo gave the promise when he visited Idumu-Ogo, Obomkpa, Issele-Mkpitime, Onicha-Olona, Ezi, Issele-Azagba, Obior and Onicha-Ugbo in continuation of his campaign for support and votes ahead of the council electious scheduled for July 13, 2024.
The Labour Party candidate said the mega projects would be built in each of the communities to impact on the socio-economic lives of the people.
According to him, the projects are also part of the strategic five-point agenda set out to mark the turning point in the development process of the local government area.
Dr. Ojogbo explained that the mega projects would be phases from community to community and that his administration would build the project in all communities before the end of his tenure.
He added that the council under his watch would also identify and establish viable projects that would have direct impact and promote accelerated development of the council area.
“My administration will provide leadership of transformation development to correct the under development and neglect foisted on the people and the area by previous administrations”, Dr. Ojogbo stated.
Dr. Ojogbo re-affairmed his faith in his five-point agenda of agricultural development, wealth creation, education rebirth, livelihood empowerment and ethical rejuvenation.
In particular, he vowed to make security a priority through centrally co-ordination of vigilante groups to enable the people live in peace, carry out their businesses and go to their farms.
He also promised to support the various communities in resuscitating their festivals as a way to address the fading cultures of the people.
Dr. Ojogbo said that there would be no form of levy in the primary schools, just as he added that the elderly people in the area would be enroled in health insurance scheme and intra community transportation provided to reduce the movement difficulties facing the people.
The party chairman for the local government, Mr. Onyebuchi Oshokwudo disclosed that botth chairmanship candidate and the councillorship candidates were carefully selected based on their sterling qualities.
Also speaking, the campaign Director-General, Pastor Wealth Chukwuka advised the people to disregard the rumours that the results had been written and called on them to turn out massively to vote for Dr. Augustine Ojogbo for chairman and all the Labour Party councillorship candidates to rescure the local government from the pang of under development.

By TONY EKE

At a time Deltans are still immersed in the euphoria of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori’s successful first year in office and expecting a harvest of more achievements in the second year, it’s worrisome to observe the growing obsession of few persons with criticism of the State Governor just for its own sake. The latest initiate in the cult of dissenters is one Ogaga Ovasa, a self-acclaimed journalist that resides in Ughelli, who for want of a better engagement, dissipated precious time writing a vacuous piece titled “Thinking Aloud: Is Governor Sheriff Oborevwori a Placeholder For Okowa?”

The dominant subject matter of the above write-up is neither truthful nor verifiable despite the erroneous title which could beguile the non-discerning members of the public. It’s a rehash of the same predominant but unfounded insinuations, half-truths, and innuendos deliberately spewed by critics intent on distracting the Oborevwori administration from its avowal of giving Delta State and its people an exemplary leadership worthy of emulation.

Virtually all the issues in the write-up had been in the public domain hence Ogaga Ovasa woefully failed to give each of them a new life they do not possess. For instance, while his assertion that “Governor Oborevwori’s first year in office left much to be desired” is an opinion he’s entitled to, it’s at variance with the remarkable views of a broad spectrum of Deltans that celebrated with the Governor on the occasion of his one year anniversary. Never in the history of our 34-year old State have we ever witnessed the convergence of a sea of heads that thronged that event venue in Asaba.

Among the ridiculous issues is the hackneyed reference to the Governor as inseparably beholden to his predecessor. That imaginary scenario which goaded him to piece the article is to say the least insulting to the person and office of the State Governor. The reference to “a placeholder” is a fictional narrative generated in opposition camps to drive a wedge between Oborevwori and the good-natured former governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa. Granted, the latter supported Oborevwori to win the position, but it’s the height of irrationality for anyone to suggest that an elected Governor wielding the enormous powers of his office could act as a stooge to any other person. That’s taking infantile imagination to a ludicrous height!

Similarly, his attempt at discrediting the philosophical basis and beneficial import of the M.O.R.E. Agenda fell flat on its face as he unknowingly applauded the award of flyover bridges at Effurun and completed roads as good projects driven by the Governor’s quest to enhance the growth of the State. His imputation to the Effurun project as “over-inflated” is seemingly actionable though he can be forgiven owing to his status as an upstart scribbler bereft of the least ethical limitation of public affairs commentary. What evidence can he advance to prove such a weighty allegation of corrupt practice if he’s sued in the court?

Apparently, much of the accusations captured in the piece are tissues of lies. In his ploy to discredit the Governor’s commitment to good governance and inclusivity, the scribbler ended up making himself an object of mockery. While he may have a different view, our Governor who took office since May 29, 2023 had been performing his job creditably to the satisfaction of the largest number of Deltans. As a large hearted leader, Oborevwori has neither in the recent past nor lately shown any bias or initiated a policy that seems discriminatory or sectional. His pledge “to be governor for all Deltans” remains true today as it’s last year. A cursory look at his projects and other social interventions showed that the three Senatorial Districts are adequately and fairly accommodated.

As of today, virtually all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are working within the purview of their duties and responsibilities contrary to Ogaga’s misinformation. Agreed that some MDAs could witness greater volume of activities in a particular period of the year, but there’s no iota of truth that all but the twin Ministries of Work, which was split into two at the inception of the Oborevwori administration for efficiency are literally dormant.

So, what will Ogaga Ovasa say about the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Girl-Child Development headed by Ms. Orode Uduaghan, which, a month ago, supervised the M.O.R.E. Grant Scheme of N500 million to 5,426 persons of Delta State origin? What about the Ministry of Health where the Commissioner, Dr. Onojaeme and his staff are working round the clock to keep cholera and other emergency health issues from ravaging our people? Again, what about the Ministry of Information where the appointment of Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, four months ago, has brought about a renascence of proactive information delivery and its concomitant benefit to the stakeholders? We can go on and on!

The functionality of the MDAs evident in the seamless cooperation and unity of purpose among Executive Council members has profoundly impacted the governance pattern of the Oborevwori administration. It’s indeed the major reason for the achievements so far recorded. Although the list of projects is relatively long, it is important to highlight the star flyover projects in the twin-cities of Warri and Effurun and the numerous roads and bridges in both urban and rural areas already delivered in the last one year.

In terms of social infrastructure, a lot has been done to boost the living standards of the people. Apart from payment of promotion arrears of 5016 civil servants totalling N5.5 billion, the same category of public sector workers received post-subsidy removal palliative allowances of N10,000 each for three months totalling N6 billion. The Governor’s approval for the employment of 3,000 workers for Primary Schools in the 25 Local Government Areas injected new hands into the system thereby helping to depopulate the labour market for that season.

In extending his empowerment initiative to the larger society, one of the outstanding components included the Delta Covid-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (D-CARES) which has benefitted a total of 64, 478 persons since Oborevwori assumed office. There’s also the M.O.R. E. Grant Scheme aimed at assisting and lifting up petty traders, artisans, and female entrepreneurs. As at May this year, the sum of N500 million was doled out to 5, 426 persons, each receiving between N100,000 and N150,000.

As far as Deltans are concerned, Governor Oborevwori had performed well within the period under review judging from the circumstantial encumbrances to his emergence in power as well as the serial adversarial arrows thrown on his path even after his inauguration in office. Yet, the appreciative stand of our people is not an end in itself but primarily geared towards inspiring the Governor to conceive new policies and do more projects to enrich our lives in years to come.

No conscientious public officer is averse to criticism anchored on objective analysis, unlike the type birthed by a combination of hate and envy. As much as Delta State belongs to all of us, it’s within our rights to voice out concerns over public policy issues, but in doing so we should not willfully choose the perfidious path because of partisan differences. A good piece of advice will always be welcome while those encased in pretence would be easily identified by its deceptive coloration.

On a final note, Ogaga Ovasa and his ilk should jettison their unenviable adversarial craft and commend the Oborevwori administration for its verifiable achievements, at least for now. It ennobles humanity more when we validate a worthy deed rather than seek to obliterate what’s manifestly true. As observed by Justice James Omo-Agege of blessed memory, while delivering a historic verdict on the Anini saga in 1987, “no amount of advocacy could defeat the logic of a solid truth”.

By Fred Edoreh

Truly, political defeat can be terribly traumatizing. The pain of loss can lead to Complex-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder, the symptoms of which include low self-perception, poor emotional regulation, amnesia in consciousness, loss of sense of reality, and dullness in judgment.

The trauma is not only on the defeated politician but also on his aides and personal staff. They all first suffer disbelief, then pain, then anger, not just against the winner but also against the electorate, the entire society, and the governmental system. The trauma can be prolonged for months and even years.

It is in this context that we can understand the unending pain being suffered by Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege and his aides who, still haunted by their loss, are erroneously seeking healing by attacking the person and government of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, even as their expressions are mere gibberish misinformation and illogic, constantly sounding like broken record on old gramophone.

Their condition is well captured in various literatures on the Psychology of Defeat, which helps us to understand the state of mind and, perhaps, can enable us to prescribe possible therapies for their recovery.

As Prof. William Shaffir and Steven Kleinknecht explained in their timeless article, “The Trauma of Political Defeat”:

“The suddenness of defeat and loss of public attention has an abrupt and direct impact on the politician’s identity,” as he is now sidelined, forced to deal with a new reality – the stigma of defeat and the severe blow to his ego.

“Political defeat is experienced like death. You have loss, anger, and sadness. Defeat represents rejection at its extreme,” because the loser did not only get defeated by just the winner, but especially because he was rejected by over 360,000 people, as was the case with Agege.

The disappointment, the embarrassment destroys self-esteem and the grief can be unending, especially as he stares at the loss of such status and prestige as Deputy Senate President and also the object of his inordinate and miscalculated chase.

Also contributing to the discourse, Patrick Gallagher noted in his book, “Traumatic Defeat,” that the vanquished try to explain and soften their loss by denying the reality of their failure and building a myth around their rejection.

They thus can blame the loss on their party for bad structure, its leaders for poor management of the electoral process, federal might for not showing up as boasted, the opposition for being too strong, the media for bad press or the people for not accepting them.

This was the case in a recent article titled “Thinking Aloud: Is Governor Sheriff Oborevwori A Placeholder For Senator Ifeanyi Okowa?,” in which one Ovasa Ogaga, a known Agege apologist, tried to blame his failure on the immediate past Governor for campaigning for Oborevwori, and also the electorate for accepting him and rejecting Agege.

He moaned that, “during the 2023 governorship election campaign, the APC governorship candidate, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege, warned Deltans that electing Oborevwori would essentially be a third term for Okowa… A man who remained mostly silent throughout the campaign, with former Governor Okowa speaking for him.”

This needs no reply because it is most politically unintelligent for Agege and his men to be angry that Okowa campaigned for the candidate of his Party, even as Agege himself seemingly also was relying on Federal might to twist the election to his favour.

It is also to be noted that Agege could not properly identify his opponent in the election as he wasted all his time campaigning against Okowa while Oborevwori engaged the people.

In another belated falsehood, he claimed that Oborevwori presented no manifesto nor made any promise to the people before they voted him, and thus vented their frustration against the public for choosing Oborevwori over Agege.

“Can Deltans in good conscience hold Governor Oborevwori accountable for promises he never made? How many Deltans took the time to read through his hurriedly put-together campaign manifesto, encapsulated as the MORE Agenda, to understand what it offered before casting their votes?,” he cried.

This again is as laughable as it is illogical. In one breath, he says Oborevwori made no promises and, in another breath, he admits that he had a manifesto that he recognized was “encapsulated as the MORE Agenda?”

While the allusion to the conscience of Deltans in voting Oborevwori is as ridiculous as it is cowardly, of course Deltans understood the MORE Agenda and its cardinal points of Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.

They understood the MORE Agenda as far better and more comprehensible than Agege’s “Edge and Band” which was and remains meaningless, the reason why they chose Oborevwori and rejected Agege.

Beyond that, it is well known that Oborevwori made specific and clear promises on his inaugural address to Deltans: that he would pursue the completion of inherited projects, initiate new ones, give Warri and Uvwie Metropolis, the economic hub of the State, a facelift, provide more enabling environment for the attraction of investments as well as ensure workers’ welfare and the socio-economic progress of the people.

In keeping with his promises, he has since launched the infrastructural and urban renewal of Warri and Uvwie with a bang, with the contracting of Julius Berger, for the first time in Delta State government, to construct three flyover bridges, a cloverleaf and road expansion projects in the twin metropolis.

No matter the falsehood and deliberate attempt to disinform the public that the project is “overhyped and over-inflated,” Deltans can see that the work is steadily in progress and they are happy.

It is indeed also high folly to suggest that Oborevwori is holding place for Okowa for choosing to complete inherited projects. On the contrary, Deltans are very happy and proud that Oborevwori seems rather to be holding place for all past Governors of Delta State, by reviving and aiming to complete all their delayed or abandoned projects, to give meaning to the dictum that government is a continuum, to recover the value of the investments made with the funds of the state over the years and to fulfil the long expectations of the people to enjoy those infrastructure and amenities.

It is like cleaning up the state, and it is indeed such a wonderful thing to see that Oborevwori is giving completion and meaning to all the previous administrations of the state.

Thankfully, the writer recognized, in his words, “the completion of a few rural and urban roads initiated by the Okowa’s administration, and continued work on sections A and C of the Ughelli-Ozoro-Kwale-Asaba road.”

He only deliberately forgot to remember that the Ughelli-Asaba Road Dualisation Project referred to was initiated by the administration of Chief James Ibori and has passed through Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan and Okowa. Therefore, Deltans are pleased that Oborevwori is giving it vigorous attention with a view to completing it once and for all.

If that means being a placeholder for any of our past Governors, Oborevwori will proudly accept because of the value its completion brings to the State.

Similarly, Deltans do not mind Oborevwori also holding place for the completion of the Beneku Bridge which connects Ndokwa East and West, the Trans Warri-Ode Itsekiri road project connecting various riverine Itsekiri communities, of which 15 of the 19 bridges have been completed, the Orere Bridge which connects over 16 communities, the Bedeseigha and Ayakoromo bridges in Ijaw land which connect over five Local Government Areas, the Isheagu-Ewulu Road in Aniocha South, the Okpanam-Ibusa Bypass in Oshimili North, the Ute-Ukpu road in Ika North-East, the completion of the storm water drainage projects in Ika North East, Warri and Uvwie, the sprawling Harbour Market in Udu initiated during the Ibori administration but abandoned midway after the state had put in so much money, the Emevor-Orogun Road, the Ibabu-Onicha Ukwani road etc etc.

The list is endless and well spread across the three Senatorial Districts, and it is satisfying that the writer recognized that the ministries of works, both Highways and Urban as well as Riverine and Rural are working.

In the same vein, the students and management of Delta State tertiary institutions are pleased with the numerous projects completed by Oborevwori in their campuses, just like Delta State Public Servants were pleased with Oborevwori’s fulfilment of his electoral pledge to pay up their promotion arrears.

How I wish the contract on the Uzere-Patani Road initiated to open up the vast agricultural lands and aquatic assets through my community, Umeh, Erowha, Ubari and various other communities, undertaken but abandoned by the NDDC long ago, was in the forte of Governor Oborevwori to revive, my people would gladly celebrate his place holding.

In the social investment sector, we have seen the increase of beneficiaries of the Delta-Cares Programme from about 36,000 to over 100,000, besides the recent initiation of the MORE Grant Programme for the support of micro and small scale businesses with over 5,000 beneficiaries, all under one year.

These are besides the upsurge in the inflow of foreign and domestic investments across sectors which has elicited the emergence of various businesses, with the attendant generation of employment, business, enterprise and wealth creation opportunities across the state, all due to Oborevwori’s reform of the ease of doing business in the state.

Back to our psychology class, we can understand how pained Agege and his aides feel at his defeat and how bitter they are now, seeing that Oborevwori is also performing in flying colours, which leaves them no chance of recovery.

My only advice to them is to crawl out of their agony and the shell of defeat, accept reality, stop sulking, stop fouling the air and find a new life. They must understand that Agege cannot achieve mental and psychological recovery through deception, falsehood, misinformation, disinformation nor unintelligent propaganda.

Unfortunately for them, he will forever remain rejected at the polls, a forgotten politician and an old story, because Deltans are experiencing a new era of constructive governance and development, and they don’t need the distraction of these cries from Agege’s political funeral.

By Harrison Akamule 

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Flag bearer of Ward 16 in Bomadi Local Government Council in the forthcoming Delta State Local Government Councils Elections, Mr Austin Massah has promised to come up with BYLAWS that will promote conducive atmosphere that would attract investors if elected.

Speaking to Journalists on his arrival from Bomadi Town, Headquarters of Bomadi LGA where he received the symbol of his candidate-ship the Flag stated that he was exited and promise to represent the electorate very well if elected.

In his words ” I will come up with bylaws that would promote conducive atmosphere for investors to come  and invest the Bomadi LGA and also promote small scale businesses to strive ” 

Mr Massah advised Youths to be patient and work assiduously for all PDP Councilorship Candidates in the forthcoming 13th July, 2024 Local Government elections. He asked Youths not to be discouraged, saying the future is brighter.

According to him,” even if it doesn’t get you today, tomorrow may be your turn, Gods time is the best so lets come together as a family of common interests to achieve the set goals and aspirations of our people “.

Mr Massah therefore appealed to the good people of his Ward to come out in large numbers to for vote him on 13th July, 2024 Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC)  elections.

He therefore thanked the party PDP for the support and giving the opportunity to represent Ward 16. 

Meanwhile an option leader  in the Ward 16, Mr Kpanaka Massah advised the Councilorship candidate to be proactive and live up to his responsibility if elected. He asked him to be loyal to all irrespective of their status and party differences.

He urged him not to listen to lies , but rather render quality services that would raise the living standards of the masses .

-In the middle  PDP Councilorship Candidate, Ward 16 , Bomadi LGA, Mr Austin Massah dress on PDP  attire with the flag around his neck flanked by party, fateful, family members and supporters  in Akugbene Community, Bomadi LGA, Delta State. Pix. Harrison Akamule.

The ECOWAS Court President, Justice Edward Amoako Asante has welcomed the Chairperson of the Community Audit Committee, Diane Holo-Sacramento at the ECOWAS Court. The meeting marked the first official engagement between the Court and the Audit Committee, signifying a significant step towards enhanced collaboration and oversight.
Justice Edward Amoako Asante extended a warm welcome to the Audit Committee members, acknowledging the importance of their visit. He introduced the key members of the ECOWAS Court team, including the Vice President, other judges, the Chief Registrar and the Director of Administration and Finance. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to discuss various issues with the Audit Committee, emphasising the Court’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
In her address, Diane Holo-Sacramento, Chairperson of the Audit Committee, expressed her appreciation for the warm reception. She introduced the Audit Committee, which comprised members from Senegal, Benin, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Guinea Bissau. Holo-Sacramento highlighted the Committee’s role in overseeing financial control, internal controls, and risk assessment within ECOWAS institutions. Since their mandate began in November 2022, the committee has been actively engaging with all ECOWAS institutions to ensure compliance with established procedures and processes, she noted.
Justice Asante provided an overview of the Court’s initiatives aimed at improving its operations. He mentioned the Electronic Case Management System (ECMS) set to launch in late September, designed to reduce costs for lawyers and their clients. Additionally, the Court conducts training programs for lawyers and government agencies to enhance their understanding of the Court’s procedures, he mentioned. Despite these efforts, Justice Asante noted the challenges faced by the Court, particularly in terms of staffing and resource limitations. He called for increased support to address these issues and ensure the effective functioning of the Court.
The Chairperson of the Audit Committee commended the ECOWAS Court for its efforts in complying with audit conditions and maintaining high standards. She acknowledged the Court’s exemplary performance compared to other institutions and encouraged continued adherence to audit recommendations to further strengthen their operations.
Justice Asante expressed his gratitude for the commendation and reaffirmed the Court’s commitment to following audit guidelines. He emphasised the importance of collaboration and guidance in achieving the shared goal of serving the community effectively.

By Fred Edoreh

In Ayi Kwei Armah’s “The Beautiful Ones Are Not Yet Born”, we come across a bird called Chichidodo. The interesting thing about it is that it hates excrement so much but it’s best food is the maggot which grows best in excreta.

Even when Chichidodo pollutes the air, it runs as if something else is pursuing it, forgetting that it cannot run away from itself.

The contradiction of the Chichidodo best describes the latest outburst of former Deputy Senate President and failed candidate of the APC in the Delta State Governorship election, Obarisi Ovie Omo-Agege.

Last week, his office issued a statement through one M.A. Egharhevwa, Esq, as published in Omo-Agege’s verified Facebook account, abusing the media aides of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Their offence: That some Deltans dared ask about the N80 billion which he reportedly claimed to have secured approval of, for the reconstruction of the Benin-Warri and Sapele-Abraka-Agbor highways.

Omo-Agege argued that it was wrong to query him about the money and the roads, especially the Sapele-Abraka-Agbor section, since the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, had explained, during an inspection visit, that the problem was that since 2014, when the FG awarded the contract, only N13 billion had been paid to the contractor, that the initial design by the FG was faulty, which accounted for the failure of the earlier construction, that the road needs to be redesigned with better features and that the cost of reconstruction is now very heavy for the FG to easily mobilise.

Agege therefore submitted that he has no questions to answer on the road, and those calling him out are unintelligent. However, that is only spinning the narrative to confuse the subject for which he is being called out.

First, he is of no concern to Governor Oborevwori’s media aides who are well aware that Deltans know him for who he is. Secondly, no one is after him. He is only being chased by his own shadow, his words coming back to find him, for as we know, the evil that men do lives after them.

How can Agege be agitated or angry that Deltans are calling him back to explain more about the N80 billion?
How could he have forgotten so soon how he claimed during the electioneering campaigns to have secured that approval of N80 billion for the reconstruction of the roads?

As widely reported by major national newspapers and online publications between 28 to 30 November, 2022, Agege made the claim at a campaign meeting with the Christian Council of Nigeria in Sapele.

The reports read: “This was disclosed by the Deputy President of the Senate and APC governorship candidate in Delta, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, during a meeting with members of the Christian Council of Nigeria which held in Sapele.”

The report quoted him as having explained that “…With the reconstitution of the NDDC board, Buhari ordered that N500 billion of the commission that was frozen be released for development projects and the sum of N80 billion was approved when he pleaded with the President to consider the Sapele-Benin road and the Amukpe-Agbor road.”

In fact, part of the report further quoted him as saying he hid the approval from the former Governor, Sen Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, ostensibly so that he would not take credit for the expected reconstruction of the road with the said approved fund.

Following Omo-Agege’s declarations, Deltans looked forward to action on the reconstruction of the roads, but it was not to be.

Rather the roads deteriorated the more and road users suffered greater hardship especially during that Yuletide season.

So far, the particularly difficult Ologbo section of the Benin-Warri road has been touched by the FG, while Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has almost completed the reconstruction of the Old Umutu-Abraka-Eku road to provide alternative route for Deltans and travellers on that axis, pending when the FG will conclude its planned redesign and mobilisation of funds for the reconstruction.

Given this situation, it is reasonable and justified for Deltans to re-interrogate Agege. It is valid now, as yesterday, and will still be valid tomorrow, to ask him what has happened to the N80 billion approval he claimed, why the fund was not and has not been applied to the road and where now is the money?

He has a responsibility of honour to answer these questions. No matter how he spins the narrative, he cannot discharge the onus by hiding behind the Minister of Works. That is like hiding one’s face behind one finger.

He cannot also keep pretending to be angry when his earlier claim about having secured N80 billion approval is played back to him. That will be acting like the Chichidodo.

The need for him to answer is even more now, especially with the revelation by the Minister about the difficulty in mobilizing the required fund to embark on proper reconstruction of the road, whereas Omo-Agege had reportedly told us about a certain N80 billion approval he secured from the then President.

On the other hand, if he only told empty lies then, merely to deceive the people to vote for him, he can as well still simply redeem himself by owning up to his lies, by coming plain to confess that he lied.

Deltans would not be surprised that he lied, just as they are not surprised that, as Deputy Senate President, he could not muster the political influence to get the major highway to his constituency done but only returned home to campaign with lies.

The only remaining thing is just also to unlearn certain habits of conduct and style because, for instance, as he should know by now, lies don’t last, no matter how deceptively postured.

●Fred Edoreh is Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Governor of Delta State.

Austen Akhagbeme:

The Edo State NNPP’s Governorship Candidate, Dr Azemhe Azena, has expressed his sympathy and heartfelt concern with the President of the Loveworld Nation Incorporated, also known as Christ Embassy, the highly esteemed Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, over the fire incident that gutted the Church’s ultra-modern auditorium at Oregun-Ikeja, Lagos on Sunday morning.

In a statement by his media team on Monday, Dr Azemhe Azena was quoted to have expressed shock over the sad news but was, however, grateful to God that “no life was lost in the strange inferno”.

“It is painful to see such a magnificent edifice go up in flames. My prayers are with the Christ Embassy family worldwide, especially the President of the Ministry, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome”

Meanwhile, in his address to church members on the incident, in an ongoing international Cell Leaders Conference in Asese Camp located along Lagos- Ibadan Expressway on Sunday, Pastor Chris told them not to be sorrowful but to be thankful to God who is capable of replacing the burnt facility with a better one.

The following is the full text of the statement.

Joint Statement of the First Plenary Session of the Intergovernmental Committee between the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Nigeria

On June 21, 2024, H.E. Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, held talks with H.E. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The two ministers co-chaired the first Plenary Session of the China-Nigeria Intergovernmental Committee.

The two sides reviewed the positive outcomes achieved since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria over the past more than 50 years, jointly planned the future development of the bilateral relations, exchanged views on China-Africa relations and major international and regional issues of mutual interest, and reached wide range consensus.

The two sides agreed that over the past more than 50 years, China-Nigeria relations have withstood the test of changes in the international landscape and have become increasingly resilient and more robust. The two countries have developed a good tradition of mutual trust on political and diplomatic issues, mutual benefit in practical cooperation, mutual support in international affairs, and mutual learning in people-to-people exchanges.

Both countries pledged to support each other in their aspirations in various international fora, particularly the UN, G20 and BRICS.

The Government of Nigerian side acknowledges that there is but one China in the world, the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. Nigeria opposes any separatist activities of “Taiwan independence” in any form, and any external attempts to interfere in China’s internal affairs, and Nigeria will also support the efforts made by the Chinese government to realize national reunification.

The two sides agreed to work towards good governance and democratic values, peace, security and stability in the Sahel region and recognize Nigeria’s leading role in the fight against terrorism and other related transborder crimes. It was also agreed that necessary efforts towards ensuring economic viability of the region would be pursued through infrastructure development and sectoral cooperation.

China commends His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership role in ECOWAS and his efforts towards bringing about stability in the region.

Both governments committed to intensifying efforts to protect the rights and dignity of each others’ citizens living in its country and create a business-friendly environment for their business.

The two sides agreed to support each others’ efforts to promote reunification, ethnic unity and social harmony, endeavor to enhance political mutual trust, and further support each other on matters related to its core interests and major concerns.

The two sides stressed the importance of the Forum on Chin-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) to China-Africa relations and international peace and development and Nigeria supports China in hosting the 2024 FOCAC Summit.

The two sides agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral affairs and jointly uphold the international system with the United Nations at its core and the international order underpinned by international law. The two sides advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization that benefits all and jointly promotes building a community with a shared future for humanity. Nigeria applauds and supports the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping.

Both countries are dedicated to advancing the high-quality Belt and Road Initiative, facilitating synergies between the Belt and Road Initiative and FOCAC conference outcomes, with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the Eight Priority Areas proposed by President Tinubu, and jointly promoting high-quality, practical cooperation in an all-around manner.

The two countries will continue to strengthen cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, electricity, telecommunications, finance, agriculture, industry, mining and free trade zones. Both countries will jointly explore cooperation opportunities in fields such as digital economy, green economy and blue economy, and they will foster new growth drivers in cooperation.

The Chinese side is willing to expand imports of Nigerian agricultural products. The Nigerian side called for increased partnership in Mining and Solid Mineral development and expressed willingness to partner with Chinese companies to establish manufacturing companies in Nigeria for local consumption and exports.

The two sides stand ready to create an open, transparent, fair and non-discriminatory business environment for the corporate cooperation between the two countries, strengthen the WTO-centered multilateral trading system, oppose trade protectionism, and promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation. The two sides support more Chinese and Nigerian provinces and municipalities/States and Local Governments in establishing more friendly relations and encouraging sister cities.

China expressed its commitment to support Nigeria in upgrading its science and technology in the military sector, equipment, and capacity building of intelligence to respond more effectively to traditional and non-traditional security challenges at home and aboard, as well as at the regional and international levels, and to safeguard peace and stability of the country.

The two sides are willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation between the departments in charge of military security, military industry and trade, and police enforcement, to enhance their capacity to safeguard national sovereignty and security interests, and make joint efforts to maintain regional and world peace.

The two countries restated their commitment to enhancing the mutual bond and friendship between the two peoples, mutual trust, interest sharing and common progress through mutual exchanges, mutual leaning and mutual understanding.

The two countries are willing to continue to build culture brands such as the Happy Chinese New Year, Chinese-Nigeria Culture Week, Chinese-Nigeria Film Festival, and Abuja International Art Fair. The two sides will strengthen mutual visits and exchanges between art groups and personnel, promote human resources training in the fields of culture and tourism, and support cooperation in the fields of creative culture between the two sides. The two sides will also strengthen cooperation in cultural and tourism fields such as publishing, film and television production, cultural heritage, libraries, museums, and tourism promotion.

The two sides confirmed their readiness to maintain regular contacts and close communication at all levels on convening the second Plenary Session of the China-Nigeria Intergovernmental Committee and Sessions of its Sub-committees.

The Federal Government has issued a flood alert in 15 states across the country.

The National Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) Center of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Abuja in the alert stated that the following locations and their environs are likely to witness heavy rainfall that may lead to flood within the period of prediction: 21st -25th June, 2024

The area include: Adamawa State : Abba Kumbo, Demsa, Farkumo ,Ganye, Gbajili, Jimeta, Mubi, Natubi, Shelleng, Song, Wuro- Bokki, Mayo- Belwa; Benue State : Agyo, Ugbokpo; Borno State: Maiduguri; Jigawa State: Hadejia; Kaduna State : Kauru; Kano State : Gezawa, Gwarzo, Kano, Karaye, Kunchi, Wudil; Katsina State: Daura, Jibia

Others are Kebbi State : Argungun, Bagudo, Bunza,Gwandu, Ribah, Sakaba, Shanga, Yelwa; Kogi State : Abejukolo, Omale,
Zugbe; Nasarawa State : Gidan Dogo, Keana, Lafia, Loko, Rukubi, Tunga, Udeni; Niger State : Magama; Plateau State : Langtang ,Wase; Sokoto State : Gagawa ,Goronyo, Isa, Shagari, Silame, Sokoto, Wamakko; Taraba State : Bandawa, Donga, Kwata Kanawa, Lau, Ngaruwa, Yorro; and Zamfara State: Anka, Bukkuyum, Gummi.

In another development, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Environment, Mr Mahmud Kambari has called for the provision of safe, functional sanitary facilities and waste management materials in communities across the country, insisting that this is key to tackling infectious diseases in the country

Kambari stated this at the commemoration of National Environmental Sanitation Day in Piwoyi community Abuja, with the theme ”go green,stay clean, climate change is real” over the weekend.

The Permanent Secretary, who was represented by the Director, Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Ministry of Environment, Mr Olubunmi Olusanya said provision of these facilities would go a long way in promoting public health and improving the sanitary condition of people leaving in rural communities.

Kambari called on the people in the community to clean their surroundings regularly so as to curb the spread of diseases like cholera, typhoid fever and Lassa fever

A representative of Breakthrough Action Nigeria, a non governmental organisation, Mr Jonathan Daku encouraged the rural communities to imbibe hygienic lifestyle, as dirty environment breeds infectious diseases.

Also,the technical Officer, Public Health and Environment, World Health Organisation, WHO, Dr Edwin Edeh pledged WHO’s support to the government in scaling up the exercise in all the 36 states of the federation including FCT.

The Esu of Piwoyi, Chief Tanko Bayago appreciated the ministry of environment and its partners for choosing the community and promised to continue with sanitation awareness in the community

Highlights of the exercise were a visit to the Chief Palace , clean up exercise of the community and the donation of cleaning materials to the community.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have busted a snake guarded shrine used to store illicit drugs in Igor community, Benin city, Edo state

A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi operatives of NDLEA detected a specially constructed large hole storage in a wall covered with wallpapers and fetish objects during a raid on a shrine where different quantities of illicit substances such as methamphetamine, Loud, Colorado and Arizona, all strong strains of cannabis with a total weight of 8.743 kilogrammes, were pulled out from the deep hole dug in the wall of the shrine building.

He said at least, two ladies: Sonia Ezumezu and Risikatu Tijani were arrested during the intelligence-led operation last Tuesday after the big black snake guarding the shrine was demobilized.

He also said two suspects: Obi Ferguson,45, and Ernest Abanum, 46, were arrested on Saturday when NDLEA operatives raided the Usen forest in Ovia South West local government area of Edo state where 209 kilogrammes of cannabis and a motorcycle were recovered.

In another clampdown, NDLEA officers in Lagos have intercepted a carefully packaged consignment of 8.2 kilogrammes of methamphetamine at a motor park in Mazamaza, Ojo area of the state.

He said the highly addictive illicit substance, also called ice or crystal meth was packed in imported Dunkin’ turtle love chocolate wraps and then concealed in the casing of three loud speakers.

He disclosed that a 39-year-old suspect, Michael Odiomume who was sending the consignment to Owerri, Imo state was promptly arrested last Wednesday at the park.

In Abuja, operatives last Tuesday intercepted a white Nissan Frontier pick up vehicle with amber lights and fake registration number of a security agency at Kiyi village in Kuje area of the FCT. He said the vehicle was loaded with 454 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, weighing 340.8 kilogrammes procured at Uzeba, Edo state. He said a 76-year-old grandfather, Mr. Francis Omofa, who claimed to have been in the illicit drug business for 10 years, linked to the consignment was arrested.

Babafemi said with the same vigour, commands and formations of the agency’ across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.

Meanwhile, while commending the officers and men of Edo, Lagos, and FCT commands, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd) noted the balance in their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts as well as those of their compatriots across the country. He however charged them to maintain the ongoing offensive action against drug cartels as they continue to intensify their war against drug abuse, WADA, social advocacy campaign.

By Austen Akhagbeme

The Governorship Candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, in the upcoming gubernatorial election in Edo State, Dr Azemhe Azena, on Friday, payed a courtesy visit to the Ogieaga of Three-Ibie Clan, HRH Mallam Ali Suleiman, in Imiegba, Etsako-East local government in Edo North.

The Governorship Candidate in his speech at the palace, acknowledged the contribution of the Royal Father to education in Edo State as a former lecturer in his alma mater, Auchi Polytechnic.

He, however, reinterated the fact that it is high time youth, from the Ivie community like himself, be encouraged to aspire for political positions like every other indigene in the state, to help bring development and government presence to the community and Edo state in general.

Dr Azemhe Azena added that he has come to alleviate the sufferings of the people by providing a purpose driven leadership, devoid of deception and corruption.

The Royal Father, in his response, congratulated Dr Azemhe Azena for his rear courage to be a part of the gubernatorial race “among sharks, because election in Nigeria is a serious contestation”

He however, told the governorship candidate to remember the community when he becomes the governor of the state while giving his blessings and support to Dr Azemhe Azena’s aspiration.

By Gbenga Akingbule 

Born without a silver spoon and struggled through hardwork, perseverance  and unwavering desire to succeed,  Borno State Governor,  Prof Babagana Zulum has since become a household name especially amongst the less privileged people in the state .

Prof. Zulum is always quick  to share stories  about his humble beginning amongst the high and mighty,  a gesture observers view as rare display of humility amongst Nigeria’s political elites 

Since his assumption of office in 2019, Prof Zulum has never failed to consistently associated with the less privileged, his former constituency where he was schooled in the difficult economic hardship bedeveling many Nigerian less privileged people.  

Driven by compassion and his  genuine concern to assist the common people, Prof Zulum had on different occasion while on  visit to the hinterland of the state, ordered for the immediate halting of his motorcade just to  assist locals walking long distance by giving them a ride on his convoy and also give them cash support.  

Zulum passion to liberate his people from the shackles of poverty and education backwardness has led to rise in budgetary provisions and fund releases for the education sector and key ministries that are aimed at empowering the common people.  

For the 2024 budget,  the Ministry of Education was  allocated  the sum of N39 billion to carry out its activities- this effort , amongst others , has removed over a million out-of -school children off the streets of Borno and returned them to the classrooms where their future are being positively molded to become responsible and productive members of the society.  

“Out of 1.8 million out-of-school children in 2021, we have taken measures to reduce the number to less than 800. We’re still working assiduously to bring down the number,”  Commissioner of Education,  Science , Technology  and Innovation,  Engineer  Lawan Abba Wakilbe said 

No doubt, the more than a decade long  insurgency in Borno State had led many children and their parents to flee trouble areas,  thereby obstructing their education where massive destruction to education facilities across the state was evident .

At  a recent function during a public  lecture  held at University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID ) which form part activities to mark the exit of the former Vice Chancellor of the Institution, Prof. Aliyu Shugaba  after completing his 5 year tenure,  Prof Zulum didn’t mince words when he charged the sea of erudite scholars  present at  the occasion, majority of whom are indigenes of Borno State to think outside the box and collaborate to use education as tool for liberating the people of the state .

Zulum who was full of emotion, apparently on a quick trip down his memory lane, revealed how he battled through plethoras of obstacles in his unquenchable quest to gain quality education that has since transformed his life to become a professor of  soil and water engineering and currently serving his second term as governor of Borno state. 

He said: “Coming from my background,  I know how I  suffered , where we do not have competent teachers to teach us in our primary and secondary school.  I never thought I would be a professor, because both of my parents were not educated,  nobody ever told me to do my assignment while in primary school, I was on my own.”

It was therefore not surprising when Governor Zulum recently released the sum of N4.8 billion as scholarship award to 524  postgraduate students  from the state , including orphans and less privileged persons.  

The  scholarship  award according to the governor is meant for foriegn and local postgraduate students in Science, Technology,  Engineering and Mathematics ( STEM) 

In his usual touch of humanity and compassion towards the the less privileged irrespective of ethnicity, tribe or religion governor Zulum during an early morning visit to a school in Maiduguri,  the state capital had gifted a woman form the South East part of the country- a teacher in the  school with the sum of N100,000 cash for always  showing up eally to her duty post. This announced the governor as a rewarder of not only the less privileged without demarcation of ethnic and religious lines but a staunch believer in hard work and dedicated service.

Also , recently,  during a visit to launch grains given to the state by Federal Government , Prof Zulum, shortly after the occasion went towards the direction of the local guard on duty at the premises and immediately ordered that the sum of N500,000 be given to him – an amount that is more than his 12 month salary.

The 80 year Chadian local guard who had lived in Nigeria for over four decades and has over 20 Children was stunned by the governor’s gesture, he could not hide his feeling but continued to shout the praises of God and that of the governor, stating that the gift would go a long way in ameliorating his financial challenges.  

Furthermore, 63 year old Cecelia Joseph, a widow and mother of six children who  was part of the one hundred thousand households that benefited from massive food support scheme carried out by the Borno State Governor, had praises for Zulum who had established the food  support to ameliorate economic hardship being experienced by many vulnerable families across the state, including the likes of Cecilia whose husband, a commercial taxi driver was gruesomely murdered by suspected Boko Haram terrorists over ten years ago. 

Cecilia since the demise of her husband,  had continue to feed from hand to mouth  with her six children. Though the blood of her husband was shed in Borno but the allure of the state added to the fact that she had no one ready to lessen her burden from elsewhere had kept her in Borno State. She said that Governor Zulum is the first to have reached out to her with any form of assistance- through the food support, noting that “this will assist me and my six children immensely.”

Prof Zulum had ordered that the food support should  be given to all vulnerable residents irrespective of  tribe , religion and political affiliations hence paving the way for Cecilia who hails from faraway  Osun State, a devoted Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) member as well as other beneficiaries who are not indigenes of the state .

” I’m so grateful to Governor Zulum for wiping away my tears with this food support. But I would appreciate more support from the governor and other well meaning citizens  for the education on my children.  ”  Cecelia who currently lives in a rented accommodation on the outskirts of Maiduguri , the state capital said .

Governor Zulum had revealed during one of the many food distribution in  the state that:  “We have never distinguish between Christians and Muslims in our food distribution.  What we’re doing is not partisan either, it’s not based on ethnicity or religion ; we advised the community to select one hundred thousand most valuable and bottom poor and this will go a long way in ameliorating the suffering of the masses ” 

While warehouses were being looted across the country during  the # EndSARS protests,  residents of Borno state were full of gratitude to Governor Zulum for always coming to their aid with his unprecedented distribution of food , cash and clothing to assist the less privileged.  

Following the release of N2 billion intervention by the President Bola Tinubu  led Federal government to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal Prof. Zulum had announced raising the number of households being targeted for palliatives from 300,000 to 400,000 households. 

Each household according to the Governor,  will be made up of six family members and  multiplied by 400,000 which, by implication, moves Zulum’s new target to two million and four hundred thousand  individuals. 

“Governor Zulum has continued to stand in the gap for many of the less privileged people in Borno state ”  Umar Ali, one of those that recently benefited from the food support scheme established by the governor.

Definitely Zulum, has become a beacon of hope for the less privileged people of Borno State.

By Nelson Agbajor

The Communication team of the Delta State Government under the supervision of the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza has been able to navigate the media landscape via a pragmatic approach and display of professionalism.

In the bustling heart of Delta State, Nigeria, Governor Sherif Oborevwori stands at the helm of leadership, steering through the complexities of governance with a steadfast commitment to transparency and effective communication. Central to his administration’s success is a dedicated team of communication managers who have earned acclaim for their proactive approach in navigating the media landscape.

Amid the constant hum of media attention that accompanies public office, Governor Oborevwori’s communication managers exemplify a rare blend of foresight, strategy, and responsiveness. Their proactive stance transcends mere reaction to news cycles; rather, it embodies a deliberate effort to shape narratives, foster engagement, and uphold the values of openness and accountability.

At the core of their strategy lies a meticulous understanding of the media landscape. Leveraging modern tools and insights, they anticipate potential issues, prepare comprehensive messaging frameworks, and establish clear lines of communication with stakeholders. This foresighted approach not only mitigates risks but also enhances the government’s ability to effectively communicate its policies and achievements.

One hallmark of their proactive approach is the proactive dissemination of information. Instead of waiting for queries or relying solely on reactive statements, Governor Oborevwori’s team initiates dialogue through regular digital platforms, and community engagements. This proactive engagement ensures that the public remains informed, fostering trust and reducing misinformation.

Furthermore, their strategy extends beyond crisis management to encompass proactive storytelling. By highlighting impactful initiatives, developmental milestones, and community-driven projects, they craft narratives that resonate with the diverse populace of Delta State. This narrative-building not only celebrates achievements but also cultivates a sense of civic pride and unity.

In the face of challenges, Governor Oborevwori’s communication managers maintain a cool-headed approach, guided by principles of honesty and integrity. Their proactive stance during critical incidents fosters public confidence and reinforces the Governor’s commitment to serving the people of Delta State with diligence and transparency.

Moreover, their proactive engagement with the media fosters an environment of mutual respect and cooperation. By nurturing positive relationships with journalists and media outlets, they ensure that accurate information reaches the public swiftly and effectively, thus minimizing speculation and confusion.

Governor Oborevwori’s administration is not just about governance; it’s about effective communication as a cornerstone of good governance. Through their proactive approach, his communication managers exemplify a commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and public service. They embody the spirit of leadership that seeks not just to govern but to connect, inform, and inspire—a testament to their unwavering dedication to the people of Delta State.

Governor Oborevwori’s communication strategy stands as a beacon of proactive leadership amid media attention. By prioritizing transparency, engaging stakeholders, and shaping narratives, his communication managers uphold a standard of excellence that fortifies democratic governance and enhances public trust. Their story is not just one of strategy but of commitment—to forging a brighter future for Delta State through effective communication and inclusive governance.

Nelson Agbajor
A Media Commentator and Public Affairs Analyst
07019180204

By Austen Akhagbeme

The General Overseer of the Omega Church Worldwide, the esteemed Apostle Johnson Suleiman has, again on Friday, declared his support for the candidature of Dr Azemhe Azena of the NNPP, in the incoming gubernatorial polls in Edo state.

The renowned Clergyman and Televangelist was speaking at the Church headquarters in Auchi when the youthful Governorship candidate came with members of his campaign council to visit with him.

Apostle Suleiman, who used the occasion to pray for Dr Azemhe Azena and his team for Success and protection as they transverse the length and breadth of Edo state in this campaign season, also promised to pray for them again a month to the election proper.

In his response, Dr Azemhe Azena thanked his spiritual Father, Apostle Johnson Suleiman for blessing them even as Hon Edith Isokpan, the Deputy Governorship Candidate, presented a gift to the respected Clergyman on behalf of the campaign council.

It should be recalled that this is the second time Dr Azemhe Azena is receiving an open support and blessing from his spiritual Father and boss, the esteemed Apostle Johnson Suleiman, since his gubernatorial race began.

By Jasper Akhimien

The Edo Central Vice Chairman of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, Hon Fidelis Odiase and Patrick Alikali, a leader in the party have been suspended indefinitely for anti-Party activities by the Edo State Chairman, Mr Fred Uwangue, after a long meeting with the state leaders of the Party.

In a letter signed by the State secretary of the Party, Mr F Okodolor and made available to the Press, the erring leaders were suspended for “Anti-Party activities, insubordination and actions capable of bringing the Party into disrepute among others”

It should be noted that the suspended leaders of the Party, who were alleged to have been campaigning for the opposition on online platforms, have been at the centre of a purported declaration of support for the opposition by the Edo Centre arm of the Party, recently.

This, according to the chairman, threatened to cause disaffection within the party but thanks to the timely intervention of the state Party Exco.

By Austen Akhagbeme

Since Nigeria’s return to majoritarian rule in 1999, so much has happened in the area of organic party formation and our leadership recruitment process in the build-up to general elections, and subsequent emerging democratic administrations and their political actors.

In most cases, these Politicians and their Political parties have had their fair share of opportunities to demonstrate their professed manifestos and vision for the nation. More often than not, they have failed us in such a way that only a positive alternative can help to rekindle hope for the vast majority of disappointed citizens.

Back home in Edo State, many of us have been living witnesses to several administrative tenures as they performed, underperformed, raised our hopes and dashed them commensurately, to the consternation of all.

Edo State has been left as a hopeless victim of the fight between political Godfathers and their recalcitrant godsons on the one hand, and that of a damaging vendetta of incumbency and its tributaries, on the other.

Today, the state lies prostrate, ravaged by flood, bad roads, uncompleted and promised white elephant projects, a dangerous debt burden, showmanship in education policy, brazen land-grabbing initiative, insecurity and total abandonment of the Agric sector where we have a high comparative advantage over sister states in the federation.

It is against this backdrop that the emergence of the New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, in the Edo political scenery and its homeboy candidate, Dr Azemhe Azena, a well-known and garlanded Philanthropist, must be given the pride of place in our bid to rescue the state from the strangulating hands of political Godfathers and their vicious cronies.

The New Nigeria People’s Party, NNPP, is a Party that prides itself in its clarity of vision, as enshrined in its robust manifesto. Its slogan, “Education for all,” is an innate policy gesture that Edo State needs, to rejig and breathe life into our feigned motion and notion of populism in our education sector, which has been used over the years as a conduit pipe to syphon state resources to private pockets and that of “foreign” contractors.

As an Educationist, Dr Azemhe Azena is more than equal to the task of bringing life into the education sector in Edo State. For example, he has been shouting in several fora to those who care to hear, that the State University at Ekpoma, needs urgent attention. The lecturers and other Staff need to smile again, moreso the students.

Above all, Edo State needs a change of drivers and the cocoons from where they emerge, to enable dispassionate, altruistic and new leaders who weren’t hatched by diseased political mother hens and Shylock Godfathers, to take over the rein of political leadership in the state and take us to the promised land. Dr Azemhe Azena of the NNPP, is top on the list of these emerging new leaders.

• Austen Akhagbeme is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online

The Federal Government has called on the nation’s youth to come out with their expectations, promising commitment to translating their expectations into actionable policies and initiatives that drive tangible change.

The promise was made on Thursday in Abuja by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim at the Nigeria Youth Consultative Forum on the ‘Summit Of The Future (SOTF), a collaborative effort by the Interagency Youth Group of the United
Nations, the Network of Youth for Sustainable Initiatives and the Ministry of Youth Development,

The Minister said: “Today is not just another morning; it’s the dawn of a new era for our nation. The Summit of the Future hinges on this very room, on the power of your ideas. Today, we join hands to chart a course for
a sustainable, prosperous Nigeria led by the brilliant visions of its most vital
resource: its youth!”

She noted that the forum was more than a mere meeting, but “represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reshape and invigorate our multilateral system, addressing the challenges we face today and those on the horizon. Together, we aim to strengthen global governance and accelerate the implementation of commitments we have made, particularly those outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

“Understanding the Present, Shaping the Future. The world’s landscape is rapidly evolving from climate change and digital
transformation to economic uncertainty and social justice. Our young people are at
the forefront of driving change. In Nigeria, over 60% of our population is under the
age of 25, making the youth our most valuable asset.

“Reflecting on Your Expectations. This forum is dedicated to capturing your views and expectations. What do you
envision for Nigeria? What are the pressing issues you face? How can we
collectively address these challenges to create a future where every young Nigerian
can flourish?

“Your feedback will shape our contributions to the upcoming UN Summit of the
Future, ensuring that Nigeria’s youth are heard and instrumental in the global
discourse on sustainable development. We are committed to translating your
expectations into actionable policies and initiatives that drive tangible change.”

Ibrahim noted that: “The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a blueprint for a better world, but achieving these goals requires more than just governmental effort; it demands the active participation of every citizen, especially our youth. The journey towards these goals is collective, and your role as a young leader cannot be overstated.

“As we delve into today’s discussions, let us focus on how we can collaboratively
tackle issues such as quality education, decent work, climate action, gender
equality, and peace and justice. Let us explore innovative solutions and sustainable
practices that can be scaled and replicated. Let us commit to actions that are not
only visionary but also practical and inclusive.”

She admitted that: “Nigeria’s challenges are complex, but they are not insurmountable. By harnessing the power of technology, fostering entrepreneurship, and championing education and skills development, we can create a vibrant ecosystem where young Nigerians
can thrive. We must also prioritize inclusivity, ensuring that our initiatives benefit every segment of society, including marginalized and vulnerable groups.”

She appealed that: “Today, I urge you to be bold in your ideas, fearless in your advocacy, and relentless in your pursuit of a better future. This forum allows your voices to resonate and your solutions to take shape.”

The Minister called on the youth to forget yesterday’s blueprints, noting that: “Nigeria’s future is being built today! This
gathering isn’t about listening– it’s about co-creating. We need your fresh
perspectives, the grit you bring to every challenge, and the game-changing ideas
that only young minds can conjure. Together, let’s weave a future that’s resilient, inclusive, and sustainable– a Nigeria that thrives on the boundless potential of its youth.”

The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mohamed Fall explained that the Forum was to plan ahead for the Summit of the Future in September 2024 in New York.

Fall, who was represented by the Country’s Representative of World Health Organisation, Walter Mulombo,noted that: “In a moment of growing mistrust, in which outdated structures no longer reflect today’s political and economic realities, the Summit is a chance to get back on track and re-commit to a multilateralism that delivers for everyone, everywhere.”

He explained that the Summit of the Future will build on the 2023 SDG Summit, stressing that agreements to improve global cooperation arrangements will, in turn, enable us to deliver on the existing commitments and turbocharge the 2030 Agenda.

He revealed that: “The main outcome of the Summit will be an inter-governmentally agreed and action-oriented Pact for the Future. The Pact will have five chapters: 1) sustainable development and financing for development, 2) international peace and security, 3) science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation, 4) youth and future generations, and 5) transforming global governance. Human rights, empowerment of women and girls and poverty eradication will be cross-cutting.”

He said: “The UN System in Nigeria is strongly behind the Nigerian youth. We believe in you. We trust in your innovative ideas and positive energies to accelerate the achievement of SDGs and drive transformative change in Nigeria.

“We count on you for continuous support in disseminating, explaining and building support for the Summit and helping us sustain the momentum for the major changes our multilateral system needs. Your networks and energies will be essential to the Summit’s success.”

On his part, the Country Representative of United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr Gifty Addico said: “Young people are the most important and valuable resource of the nation and strategic investment in their education, health, security, and overall development carries the potential for demographic dividends.”

Addico, who was represented by the Deputy Representative, Mr. Koessan Kuawu noted that: “The need for effective multilateral solutions to address the array of challenges ranging from climate change and economic instability to technological disruption and social inequalities is now more urgent than ever.”

He noted that: “This event would provide a platform for young people to discuss and collaborate towards addressing priorities of young Nigerians for the United Nations Summit of the Future in September.
As we delve deep into today’s deliberations, let’s reaffirm our collective resolve: Every voice is invaluable. Every dream holds weight. Every youth deserves an opportunity.

“Here’s to forging a future that acknowledges, celebrates, and nurtures every young individual’s aspiration. The UN Interagency group on Youth steadfastly stands with you, ready to champion this cause.”