President Bola Tinubu has been advised to take a holistic approach at taming the soaring inflation in the country.

A press statement on Tuesday by the Lead Director of the Centre for Social Justice, Eze Onyekpere said it has become imperative that Nigeria’s economic managers adopt a holistic approach to improving the economy/decelerate inflation.

Among the advised given for a leeway out of the present economic doldrums include “Increased productivity especially in the tradable and export-oriented sectors (including oil and gas as well as removing export trade barriers in the agriculture sector in the short run) can shore up our foreign exchange earnings which will improve the value for the Naira against major international currencies thereby limiting import induced inflation.

“Improving security of lives and property through the right political will that guarantee value for money in the provision of security services in Nigeria. It should be recalled that security has been given the highest budgetary allocations at the federal level in the last ten years. This will also improve agriculture’s contribution to the GDP and food production thereby limiting food inflation which has been the major driver of inflation over the last one year. Improved security will further lead to increased oil and gas production for export and local refining.

“Limit ways and means of funding of the federal budget to the statutory limit of not more than 5 percent of previous years’ actual revenue in accordance with S.38 of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Act 2007.

“Implement a Nigeria First Local Content Policy in Federal and State Public Procurement to ensure that capital budget implementation do not put undue pressure on the Naira. Rather, capital budget implementation should create jobs, enhance local productivity and grow the economy, and

“Stop denying Nigerians access to their money, vis cash in banks as a means of mopping up what is considered excess liquidity. This is a fundamentally flawed measure for the reduction of inflation.”

Centre for Social Justice noted that rising prices is a symptom of the overall negative macroeconomic fundamentals and strong headwinds besetting the Nigerian economy, adding that beyond inflation, the Naira is losing value, poverty and unemployment is increasing; there have been massive factory closures, increasing insecurity and population growth figures that almost outpaced economic growth.

The Centre said that: “Furthermore, the short term and medium-term impact of economic reform measures (fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification) have not been properly articulated. The reforms were not accompanied by an evaluation/projection of their impact on the economy as well as countervailing measures necessary to limit their harsh effects on prices and other macroeconomic indicators.”

From SUNNY A. DAVID

The Traditional Rulers Council of Anambra State has officially responded to the Anambra State government, on the recent suspension of Igwe Damian O. Ezeani of Neni.

In a press release made available to our correspondent through the State Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers in the State, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, the Council in a 14 point letter bemoaned the dimension that was taken by the State government in the suspension of Igwe Damian O Ezeani.

He said he was suspect that the suspension letter was an after thought as it was already trending on social media for over 24 hours prior to their receipt of the letter. “I was embarrassingly inundated with phone calls and messages from traditional rulers and other persons seeking clarification from me as Chairman of ASTRC regarding a situation to which I was not privy. Your letter to Igwe Damian O Ezeani was copied to the Commissioner of Police, and Director DSS, Anambra State, bit not to the Chairman of the ASTRC.”

The revered traditional ruler however stated that the action of the State government has indeed shown, amongst many others acts, how traditional rulers of Anambra State are being treated and the measure of the worth the traditional institution has with the present State government.

Continuing, Igwe Achebe said that it’s unfortunate that the State government can apply this code of conduct without the involvement or reference to ASTRC, a body that worked so hard to ensure that the law stands following the 2013 annual seminar of Anambra State traditional rulers where it was presented and adopted.

The Obi of Onitsha also retraced how he had on 04 October 2023 communicated the Governor on the subsisting code of conduct which served previous administration and the need for it’s review to have adequate efficacy. He however stressed that since then he has not received any feedback from the Commissioner or Mr Governor, and as such he assumed that the same order with the previous administrations would continue to prevail.

He said it was out of place, for the Commissioner to have discussed with him on 7th of January 2024 on the code of conduct for traditional rulers who conferred honorary chieftancy titles in violation of the code, as he said that the Commissioner specifically mentioned Igwe Ojoto, who conferred an honorary chieftancy title on Senator Ifeanyi Ubah on 30th December, 2023 and the self acclaimed traditional ruler of Nawfia, who also conferred honorary chieftancy titles on 40 persons on the January 4th 2024.

The Chairman ASTRC said that “in the conversation, you categorically, did not mention, in any regard whatsoever, Igwe Menu who celebrated his ofala on the 29th of December 2023.”

Igwe Achebe further stressed that, “Nevertheless, it’s is very manifestly presented that no written directives from your Ministry on conferment of Chieftaincy titles existed before 08 January 2024 when Igwe Neni was suspended,” stressing that the referenced letter to a second term Right Honorable Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as “one Senator Ifeanyi Ubah” is most disrespectful, offensive, and unbecoming of one holding a political office as a Commissioner the traditional ruler thundered in his release.

The Obi of Onitsha also stressed that it unfortunate that the Commissioner used such words on the Senator as its noteworthy that a person can only qualify to contest elections after scaling through the highest level of security checks at the Federal level. He however stressed that Senator Ubah can’t be wished away as he hold a Chieftaincy title of his hometown, Nnewi, conferred on him by his Monarch and Grand Patron of the Anambra State traditional Institution, Igwe K.O.N Orizu. Besides, he is also a well known business investor in Anambra and a generous Philanthropist to say the least.

Igwe Achebe therefore maintained that the issue of code of conduct on Igwe Neni and the conferment of Chieftaincy title to Senator Ubah suggests that there may be other issues with either the Igwe or Senator Ubah, as is being stealthy ventilated in this present circumstance.

He however conculded that the way the State government has handled the matter of the honorary chieftancy titles is the apogee of the progressive dehumanization and dismantling of the traditional institution of Anambra by the present administration, and however informed the State government that the institution comprises the finest sons of Anambra State, who achieved sterling academic heights and professional/vocational attainments before been called to serve the people.

The Chairman ASTRC however reminded the State government that at the behest of their Communities they took up the role of traditional rulers and as shining examples for selflessly giving back to their Communities in particular and the society at large, and as custodians of culture and tradition of their people, their livelihood does not depend on selling chieftancy titles of the N175,000 monthly stipend from the State government, but on their own hard earned modest personal resources.

He further stated that, “By their office, age, attainment and standing in society, they deserve far better respect and dignity, than being publicly bullied and unfairly shamed at every opportunity by people in the State government.

“He further reminded them also, that the Federal government and other State government’s hold the traditional institutions in high esteem, and wondered what has gone wrong in Anambra State.”

In a recent address, Ambassador (Dr) Niyi Adesoye, the President and Chairman-in-Council of the Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria (CIPPON), underscored a set of essential strategies vital for survival in the dynamic landscape of the printing industry in 2024.
Adesoye emphasized that success in the printing sector requires a nuanced amalgamation of technical expertise, business acumen, and a creative edge. He articulated several key points aimed at guiding professionals through the intricacies of the industry.
Adesoye stressed the paramount importance of staying abreast of the latest technological trends. Professionals were urged to actively participate in industry conferences, keep themselves updated through reputable printing publications—placing special emphasis on sources such as ‘WhereToPrint’ magazine—and cultivate connections within the professional network to ensure continuous awareness and adaptability to technological shifts.
The CIPPON President highlighted the imperative of quality as the bedrock of success in the printing industry. Professionals were encouraged to maintain the highest standards in their work, advocating strategic investments in state-of-the-art equipment and premium materials. Adesoye affirmed that such commitment to quality is an investment that invariably paves the way for future prosperity.
Adesoye emphasized the indispensability of a well-structured business plan for navigating the competitive printing industry. He urged professionals to meticulously identify their target market, formulate effective marketing strategies, and establish realistic goals, outlining these as crucial components to drive the growth of their printing enterprises.
Recognizing the pivotal role of a skilled workforce, Adesoye urged professionals to assemble a team of qualified and CIPPON certified experts. The commitment of this team to delivering high-quality work, he stated, aligns with the overarching vision of the printing business and forms the bedrock for sustained success.
Highlighting the inherent tie between the printing industry and creativity, Adesoye encouraged professionals to fearlessly embrace innovation. He endorsed the experimentation with novel ideas and techniques, fostering a continuous quest for improvement. The ability to innovate, he stressed, stands as a key differentiator in the fiercely competitive realm of printing.
Ambassador (Dr) Niyi Adesoye concluded his address with a call to professionals in the printing industry to adopt and implement these strategies, positioning them on the path to resilience and success in the ever-evolving landscape of print technology.

President Bola Tinubu on Monday commended Tantita Security Services Limited and the other security agencies for combating oil theft and hailed their collaborative efforts yeilding results.

Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa gave the commendation on behalf of the President while inspecting the impounded MT. Kali and paraded suspects by Tantita and other security agencies at Oporoza, Delta State.

The CDS flanked by top officials of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL and top military brass promised to deal ruthlessly with oil thieves and their sponsors.

He noted that the arrested vessel will be destroyed in line with standard practice to serve as deterrent to others.

Musa urged the media to stop creating disaffection between government and Private security agencies working together to achieve better results.

He said, “We are here based on the report of the arrest of this ship, and I think it’s a major achievement. It shows that we’re committed in ensuring that we stop this criminality within the maritime environment.

“This is a collaborative effort and it will continue to collaborate with the NNPC, the others, private security agencies, the main federal government agencies are also working together. I don’t want a situation where we create the impression as if there’s enmity between this group and that group.

“We’re working for the same team, we’re all Nigerians, this is our country. Whatever is happening here is an act of criminality that must be stopped by all means. So, I want to make it very clear that all Nigerians must put hands on deck to ensure that we stop these acts.

“The country is bleeding. We need all the funds we need so that this country can grow and develop and it is just by stopping these criminals like this, that will make that very possible.

“So why we’re here, is to come and see to identify them. The chief of Defense Intelligence is going to go straight into investigation as to who is involved, what was taken, who sent them, and this is because we want to catch the perpetrators.

“These ones are just the ground troops that are being used, the main actors are behind, and I want to use this opportunity to warn all those that don’t want to stop this, that enough is enough.

“The Armed Forces, the security agencies, the communities, private security agencies, wherever they are, they are contracted as long as they’re contracted by the federal government, we’re going to work together as a team.

“There’s not going to be any competition between us, and please, the media should stop making it look as if there’s a fight, there is no fight.

“Whatever arrest that has been done, it is done collaboratively, and we’re going to continue to do that. And so that is very important.

“We’re happy that these have been arrested. We’re going to take it off from here, and we’re going to do more, because, henceforth, we’re going to enhance our collaboration and our jointness in ensuring that we check these menace.

“Nigeria must grow, and individuals can not hold us to ransom. There are very few individuals who are making profit from this. And they don’t want to stop because I would have expected that by now, from all the actions have been taken to discourage people from doing it. But you can see that people are still hell-bent to steal our crude for their own selfish gains, and that must stop.

“So, I want to thank you for this opportunity that we’re here. And to make it very clear that we are all working together as a team.

“We will enhance this capacity, and this year, we will ensure that Nigeria oil production goes up, as much as possible, so that we can all benefit as Nigerians.

“The crude inside the vessel will going to be treated as standard operating procedure, including the ship.

“I know those ships that are very new will not want to commit crime. They want to go look for those ones that are almost dead. So that if they succeed, they have gained and if they lose it, they don’t lose anything. This will follow the standard operating procedure.” He stated.

From SUNNY A. DAVID

The Commissioner of Police Anambra State Command, Mr Aderemi Adeoye has confirmed the raising of the Palace of Igwe Emmanuel Nnabuife of Isseke Community in Ihiala Local Government Area.

He explained that the Gunmen were those fleeing from Ihiala town following the security operatives by the joint task force on security in the State.

Commissioner Adeoye noted that Isseke is closer to Imo State a neighboring State stating that officers and men of the Command are on top of the situation to fish out the perpetrators.

It would be recalled that the
Palace of the Traditional Ruler of Isseke Community in Ihiala local government area of Anambra State Igwe Emmanuel Nnabuife was burnt down by suspected gunmen in the area, our correspondent learnt.

This is coming about one week after a former convoy driver to late Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju was allegedly kidnapped by gunmen after performing the funeral ceremony of his brother at the same Isseke Community.

Reports has it that the said former driver failed to settle the gunmen before burying his brother and shortly after the funeral the gunmen stormed his home firing gun shots in the air and took him away to an unknown destination.

As at the time of this report the driver who they gave his name as CY have not been found and his wereabout is yet unknown.

Also, confirming the arson perpetrated on his palace Igwe Nnabuife said that the house was burnt by the gunmen stressing that he had no problem with anyone in his Community before the incident.

“It is true that my palace was burnt down by these boys and I have lost everything that I laboured all my life to achieve and as it is now I am homeless.

“Everything was razed down but I thank God that no life was lost and nobody was harmed by those boys and this is the way it is in my town Isseke,” the Igwe said.

Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Zulum has facilitated a truce between Fulani herders and farmers in Gamboru Ngala town in the central part of Borno State to foster peace and harmony.

The truce, was brokered after weeks of tension and uncertainty during a peace meeting convened by Governor Zulum on Monday.

The governor, while commending all parties for reaching a consensus during the meeting, urged people to shun all acts that could lead to violence.

He said: “Borno is a state with agrarian communities. We have Fulanis, we have Shuwas, and we have Kanuris who are nomads as well. We have the same culture and the same tradition. Therefore, I urge all the people of Borno to be law-abiding and to ensure they live in peace with one another.”

The governor also assured that the state government is taking all necessary measures to prevent clashes between Fulani herders and farmers in the state.

The meeting was attended by representatives of Fulani herders and the farming community, as well as the senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan, a House of Representative member, Engr Bukwr Talba, the Local Government Council Chairman, a House of Assembly member representing Ngala, and traditional and community leaders.

Meanwhile, the governor has announced the constitution of a committee to investigate the causes of conflicts between farmers and herders in Borno State.

The governor made the announcement in Gamboru town on Monday while addressing the press after the distribution of food items and N221.7m to over 67,454 families.

He said: “Let me use this opportunity to announce a committee that will look into the farmers and herders conflicts in all 27 Local Government Areas of Borno State,” said Zulum.

The committee among other issues will re-establish the defunct cattle routes and identify grazing reserves which have not been adequately utilized. He emphasized that the committee’s recommendations will guide the government in addressing the root causes that lead to conflicts between farmers and herders.

The committee which will be chaired by Hon. Tijjani Guzamala, Special Adviser designate, includes representatives from the Nigerian Police, DSS, all emirate councils, Miyetti Allah, Alhaya Association and the Governor’s Office.

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has announced a plan to reactivate the South Chad Irrigation Scheme aimed at providing a livelihood for the resettled communities of people affected by age long Boko Haram insurgency.

The governor made the announcement on Monday in Wulgo, a community in Ngala Local Government Area.

He said: “Borno State Government will see how to open up and expand the irrigation activities on the shores of Lake Chad. We will resettle new communities and we shall reactivate the South Chad Irrigation Scheme in order to address food crises in Borno State.”

The South Chad Irrigation Scheme comprising of communities along the water shores of Lake Chad, including Gamboru, Dambore, Wulgo, Marte, and Kirenuwa is expected to create employment opportunities and enhance food security for the people in the region.

The governor noted that the State Ministry of Agriculture has mapped out a strategy for the reactivation of irrigation schemes across the state.

He said that the reactivation of the irrigation scheme would provide the resettled communities with livelihoods without relying on food aid for survival.

Zulum said: “You can see the quantum of food that is being distributed here, it is not sustainable to continue with such distribution. It is imperative, therefore, to look for medium- and longer-term sustainable solutions that will completely address food crises in the state. The State Ministry of Agriculture has taken a far-reaching decision that will address the food crises. Among them is the reactivation of the irrigation scheme across Borno State.”

The governor, accompanied by the senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan, a member of the House of Representatives, Bukar Talba, a member representing Ngala at the State Assembly, Hon. Bukar Abatcha and the Local Government Chairman of Ngala, visited Gamboru, Wulgo and Dambore irrigation sites.

By Austen Akhagbeme

Dr Azemhe Azena, a foremost Labour Party’s, LP, governorship aspirant in Edo State on Tuesday, received in his office in Benin, a group known as ” The Higher Grace Ministers Forum”

The group which was led by its Edo state Chapter Coordinator, Prophetess Frances N. Nwibe, said that they came to give the ebullient televangelist and politician, their support as he embarked on the political journey to rescue Edo state.

Prophetess Nwibe added that “Dr Azemhe is a good follower and therefore, will be a good leader when given the chance and this is why we are here today to endorse him as the trusted choice”.

Dr Azemhe in his remarks, expressed gratitude for their kind gesture while promising not to let them down.

The group is made up of the Sons and Daughters of Prophet Jerimiah Omoto Fufeyin, a popular televangelist based in Warri, Delta state.

Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) notes with deep regret the controversy on the mismanagement of funds, abuse of financial due process and clear and manifest intention to defraud the treasury by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu.

There was a request from the Honourable Minister to the Accountant General for the transfer of the sum of N585.2million from the National Social Investment Office account to the United Bank for Africa account of Bridget Oniyelu, being a private account. A number of fundamental issues have arisen from this scenario. ▪ The first is that in accordance with Federal Government’s Financial Regulation (Regulations) 713, it is clearly stated that: Personal money shall in no circumstances be paid into a government bank account, nor shall any public money be paid into a private bank account. An officer who pays public money into a private account is deemed to have done so with fraudulent intention. Therefore, the Regulation establishes a strict liability offence which cannot be explained away under any circumstances. ▪ The second is that the Honourable Minister’s defence that this practice is legal indicates that this may not have been the first-time public money is being transferred into private accounts on the instruction of the Minister. Thus, investigations are imperative to establish the full extent of the rot under the direction of the Honourable Minister. ▪ The third is that the way and manner the memo for the release of this money was generated and dispatched to the Accountant General shows that the Hon Minister has usurped the functions of the Accounting Officer being the Permanent Secretary (See Regulations 111 and 112) and other relevant accounting and finance staff of the Ministry (Regulations 114 for Head of Finance and Accounts). It is not the duty of the Honourable Minister to be generating memos for payment of beneficiaries.

The fourth is that the generation of the memo and the direct request for the Accountant General to pay public money to a private account indicates one or two things. It is either the Honourable Minister is ignorant of the procedure for release, disbursement of funds and payment of beneficiaries or she deliberately decided to violate the Regulations.
 
The Regulations (3127, 3128 and 3129) further require that public money should be transferred through e-payment to the direct beneficiaries unless the Ministry, Department or Agency has an exemption from the e-payment policy. Only a qualified person, duly entitled under the law or a contract is qualified to be a beneficiary of public funds and not a meddlesome third party (Financial Regulation 601 inter alia states: Vouchers be made out in favour of the person or persons to whom the money is actually due. Financial Regulation 603 states inter alia (i) All vouchers shall contain full particulars of each service, such as dates, numbers, quantities, distances and rates, so as to enable them to be checked without reference to any other documents and will invariably be supported by relevant documents such as local purchase orders, invoices. special letters of authority, time sheets, etc.
 
CSJ recalls that Halima Shehu, Chief Executive Officer and National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has been suspended following allegations of high-level abuse of public resources. We further recall that the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, is being questioned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in an ongoing probe into the N37.170billion allegedly laundered during her tenure in office, through a contractor, James Okwete. We also recall the false claim by Buhari’s Minister, of feeding Nigerian children who were all at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Another memo circulating from the same Ministry shows approvals for airfare and airport taxi to a city without an airport.
 
From the foregoing, it is manifestly clear that the Regulations and internal controls for accountability and transparency in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs are not followed as they are obeyed more in the breach. There have been clear violations of laid down rules and procedures. The funds available to the Ministry and its agencies have been treated like a slush fund. Against the background of the foregoing, CSJ demands the following.
 
▪ The immediate resignation of Minister Betta Edu from office and where she fails to resign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should suspend her from office pending the conclusion of investigations. Treat like cases alike; what is applicable to Halima Shehu should also be applicable to Betta Edu.
 
▪ Reform the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Social Investment Programme and similar programmes to ensure that the criteria for selection of beneficiaries, the

names, locations, details of beneficiaries and the sums disbursed to them are put up on a publicly available web portal. This will facilitate public monitoring and evaluation.
 
▪ The expeditious prosecution of all persons who have participated in the mismanagement/looting of public resources or the attempt to do so under the Ministry.
 
 
 
Eze Onyekpere Esq.
 
Lead Director

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has supervised the distribution of N221,760,000 in cash, food items and wrappers to over 67,454 vulnerable residents of Ngala Local Government Area.

Zulum was in Ngala last weekend where he spent two nights coordinating humanitarian and developmental activities in the local government area.

The distribution took place at five centres in Gamboru, Wulgo and Ngala, the major communities housing thousands of internally displaced persons from two local government areas that fled due to activities of Boko Haram insurgents.

The exercise started on Sunday with 44,352 women beneficiaries each receiving N5,000 in cash and a wrapper, while 23,102 male heads of households each got one bag of rice and one bag of maize grain on Monday.

A statement on Monday by the spokesman of the governor, Mallam Isa Gusau, quoted his boss as saying: “Yesterday (Sunday), we distributed non-food items to about 44,352 women in Ngala Local Government Area. Each of them received N5,000 and a wrapper. This morning (Monday), we are distributing food items to 23,103 male heads of households. Each of them will receive one bag of rice and one bag of maize to cushion their hardship.”

The governor expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Borno State Government with donation of about 10,000 bags of rice through the Nigerian Customs Service.

The governor was accompanied by the senator representing Borno Central, Barrister Kaka Shehu Lawan, a member House of Representatives, Engr Bukar Talba and a member of the House of Assembly representing Ngala constituency, Hon Bukar Abatcha.

Others on the governor’s entourage include commissioners, special advisers and special advisers designated, heads of agencies in charge of humanitarian activities and some top officials of the government.
Press Release
 
(1) UTMOST TRANSPARENCY IS IMPERATIVE FOR HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS
 
MINISTRY AND (2) MINISTER BETTA EDU – TIME TO GO
 
Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) notes with deep regret the controversy on the mismanagement of funds, abuse of financial due process and clear and manifest intention to defraud the treasury by the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu. There was a request from the Honourable Minister to the Accountant General for the transfer of the sum of N585.2million from the National Social Investment Office account to the United Bank for Africa account of Bridget Oniyelu, being a private account. A number of fundamental issues have arisen from this scenario.
 
▪ The first is that in accordance with Federal Government’s Financial Regulation (Regulations) 713, it is clearly stated that: Personal money shall in no circumstances be paid into a government bank account, nor shall any public money be paid into a private bank account. An officer who pays public money into a private account is deemed to have done so with fraudulent intention. Therefore, the Regulation establishes a strict liability offence which cannot be explained away under any circumstances.
 
▪ The second is that the Honourable Minister’s defence that this practice is legal indicates that this may not have been the first-time public money is being transferred into private accounts on the instruction of the Minister. Thus, investigations are imperative to establish the full extent of the rot under the direction of the Honourable Minister.
 
▪ The third is that the way and manner the memo for the release of this money was generated and dispatched to the Accountant General shows that the Hon Minister has usurped the functions of the Accounting Officer being the Permanent Secretary (See Regulations 111 and 112) and other relevant accounting and finance staff of the Ministry (Regulations 114 for Head of Finance and Accounts). It is not the duty of the Honourable Minister to be generating memos for payment of beneficiaries.

▪ The fourth is that the generation of the memo and the direct request for the Accountant General to pay public money to a private account indicates one or two things. It is either the Honourable Minister is ignorant of the procedure for release, disbursement of funds and payment of beneficiaries or she deliberately decided to violate the Regulations.
 
The Regulations (3127, 3128 and 3129) further require that public money should be transferred through e-payment to the direct beneficiaries unless the Ministry, Department or Agency has an exemption from the e-payment policy. Only a qualified person, duly entitled under the law or a contract is qualified to be a beneficiary of public funds and not a meddlesome third party (Financial Regulation 601 inter alia states: Vouchers be made out in favour of the person or persons to whom the money is actually due. Financial Regulation 603 states inter alia (i) All vouchers shall contain full particulars of each service, such as dates, numbers, quantities, distances and rates, so as to enable them to be checked without reference to any other documents and will invariably be supported by relevant documents such as local purchase orders, invoices. special letters of authority, time sheets, etc.
 
CSJ recalls that Halima Shehu, Chief Executive Officer and National Coordinator of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has been suspended following allegations of high-level abuse of public resources. We further recall that the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, Sadiya Umar-Farouk, is being questioned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission in an ongoing probe into the N37.170billion allegedly laundered during her tenure in office, through a contractor, James Okwete. We also recall the false claim by Buhari’s Minister, of feeding Nigerian children who were all at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Another memo circulating from the same Ministry shows approvals for airfare and airport taxi to a city without an airport.
 
From the foregoing, it is manifestly clear that the Regulations and internal controls for accountability and transparency in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs are not followed as they are obeyed more in the breach. There have been clear violations of laid down rules and procedures. The funds available to the Ministry and its agencies have been treated like a slush fund. Against the background of the foregoing, CSJ demands the following.
 
▪ The immediate resignation of Minister Betta Edu from office and where she fails to resign, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should suspend her from office pending the conclusion of investigations. Treat like cases alike; what is applicable to Halima Shehu should also be applicable to Betta Edu.
 
▪ Reform the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the Social Investment Programme and similar programmes to ensure that the criteria for selection of beneficiaries, the

names, locations, details of beneficiaries and the sums disbursed to them are put up on a publicly available web portal. This will facilitate public monitoring and evaluation.
 
▪ The expeditious prosecution of all persons who have participated in the mismanagement/looting of public resources or the attempt to do so under the Ministry.
 
 
 
Eze Onyekpere Esq.
 
Lead Director
China’s Role in Resolving Gaza Conflict: A Call for Decisive Action
By Mohammad Reza Noroozpour

The situation in Gaza is getting worse daily and the human condition is getting more pathetic every minute, and the involvement of different countries, including China, can have significant implications.
 
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the situation in Gaza, has been a longstanding and contentious issue in international relations. The conflict involves political, territorial, and humanitarian dimensions, and it has drawn attention from various countries and international organizations.
 
Recently, I had the opportunity to translate Chinese President Xi Jinping’s speeches in Persian Language. It is evident that China, a major global actor, holds an interest in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and is advocating for a peaceful resolution that respects the Palestinians’ right to establish a state of their own. President Xi has regularly highlighted the importance of humanity, justice, equality, fairness and the right of all nations to live in peace in his speeches.
 
In recent years, China has increasingly sought to play a more active role in global affairs, including in the Middle East. While China has historically maintained a policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, it has also expressed concern for humanitarian issues and the rights of the Palestinian people.
All these human values and principles that Mr. Xi Jinping has been emphasizing on all these years are now related to the situation in Gaza Strip. Given President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on human rights and equality, some analysts and observers have suggested that China could take a firmer stance on the developments in Gaza. This could involve advocating for greater humanitarian assistance, supporting diplomatic efforts to address the conflict, and reaffirming the rights of Palestinians.
China’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is influenced by various factors, including its diplomatic and economic relations with Israel, its growing economic ties with the Middle East, especially Arab states, and its broader foreign policy objectives. As such, any China’s firmer stance on Gaza would be considered very effective on the context of these factors.
Xi Jinping personally has made several comments about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the rights of the Palestinian people. His comments have emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution, and serious attention to the inalienable rights of Palestinians. Here are three important comments made by Xi Jinping related to Palestinian rights and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict:
 

1. In a speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2015, Xi Jinping expressed China’s support for the establishment of a fully sovereign and independent Palestinian state. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
    
2. During a meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in 2017, Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s support for the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights and interests. He stressed the importance of achieving a political solution to the conflict and reiterated China’s commitment to promoting peace in the Middle East.
    
3. In a message to the Arab League in 2018, Xi Jinping reiterated China’s support for the Palestinian cause and emphasized the need for a political settlement based on relevant United Nations resolutions and the principle of “land for peace.”
    
   Though Xi Jinping’s comments have consistently emphasized China’s support for the Palestinian people’s rights and the need for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, they have not explicitly mentioned a two-state solution. However, China has consistently called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, which aligns with the broader concept of a two-state solution.
    
   In light of Xi Jinping’s statements on human values and the country’s ambition to lead the world during this transitional period, and taking into account its positive stances on the right of Palestinians and having good relations with both sides of the conflict, it is imperative for this country to take more decisive actions and adopt stronger and clearer positions to put an end to the Israelis ongoing violence in Gaza, rather than allowing more innocent lives to be lost.

An online coalition of Muslim Professionals, the No Dull Moment in Islam World wide (NDMIWW), has strongly advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to convoke another national conference where Nigerians across all sentiments will discuss the state of the nation.

The group stated this after a one-day discourse on issues affecting the polity and resolved to advice the Federal Government to put together the committee.

A communique signed by its spokesperson, Pharmacist Hassan Sulayman, stated that the committee should consist of a representatives of all ethnic, political and religious groups in the country.

According to the communique, such conference will have only one agenda, “Nigeria: To Live or To Leave”.

Apparently disturbed by the situation in the country, the group noted with concern that the level of conflicts, insecurity, and their concomitant confusion has reached an all-time peak which must be nipped in the bud.

The group said a situation where the country continues to be milked dry as resources grow with unacceptable commensurate poverty of the majority should not be tolerated.

“It is our strong view that if religious groups are allowed to rule themselves according to the tenets of their religion, penalties for crimes, especially corruption and brigandage would deter potential criminals and the consequent competition for sanity in either the neighbouring nations or federating units would not only produce peaceful progress and development but also deter potential criminals from vying for political offices.”, it added.

The group, however, added that the conference being advocated for will not in any way obstruct the parliamentary processes of the National Assembly nor will be another jamboree National Political Reform conference of 2005/2006 nor that of 2014 National Conference whose reports have been put in dustbin of history.

“Ours is focused and result oriented with only one agenda and with time frame of not more than three to six months”, It stressed

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on New Year day, Monday 1st January 2024 intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos a consignment of Colorado, a very strong strain of cannabis, concealed in boxing kits imported from the United States of America.

A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi said a weeklong intelligence-led operation to get the receiver arrested was consummated last Saturday following the successful tracking and arrest of 38-year-old Olorunfunmi Olakunle who distributes the dangerous psychoactive substance to dealers across Lagos state.

Babafemi said the consignment had arrived the country last Monday via Cairo on Egypt Airlines flight marked as boxing kits.

Olakunle during interrogation, disclosed that he has been delivering such consignments to different recipients whenever his childhood friend, US-based Sagir Salami sent them. The latest shipment has a total weight of 1.8 kilogrammes.

Meanwhile, a 28-year-old female supplier of ammunition to bandits, Bilkisu Suleiman came top on the list of 12 other suspects arrested by NDLEA operatives in new year interdiction operations in Kaduna, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, and Osun states.

Suleiman, according to the statement, was arrested last Wednesday by NDLEA officers on patrol along Zaria – Kano expressway in possession of 249 rounds of 7.62 mm live ammunition concealed in a black nylon bag kept in her lady’s handbag.

She was on her way to deliver the ammunition to an identified bandit in Kakumi village, Katsina state when she was nabbed after which she was transferred to the Kaduna state command of the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.

The military authorities at the Bonny camp cantonment in Lagos last Tuesday transferred a suspect, Francis Suru, 37 and 63 jumbo bags of Ghana Loud, a strain of cannabis, weighing 2,104.2 kilogrammes and a truck to the Lagos state command of NDLEA.

Babafemi said the suspect and the drug exhibits were earlier intercepted by NDLEA officers on 12th December 2023 close to the gate of the military cantonment in Bonny Camp, Victoria Island.

According to him, some armed escorts resorted to sporadic shooting to obstruct the operation, a development which attracted soldiers from the cantonment, who eventually intervened and took custody of the consignment and suspect before transferring them to the agency.

In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Niger state last Thursday during a stop and search operation along Suleja-Kaduna road intercepted a J5 bus coming from Ondo state to Zaria, Kaduna state with 23 bags of cannabis sativa weighing 219.5 kilogrammes. Two suspects: Umar Musa, 26 and Isachiru Abubakar were arrested in connection with the seizure.

Babafemi also disclosed that a female drug trafficker, Queen Onyema, 27, was arrested on Saturday 6th January in a commercial bus enroute Abuja along Okene-Lokoja expressway with 12 compressed blocks of cannabis weighing 4.6 kilogrammes and 0.046 kilogrammes designer drugs concealed in an indomie carton, another suspect Mubarak Sani, 20, was nabbed at Gadar Tamburawa area of Kano last Monday with 445.9 kilogrammes of the same psychoactive substance.

In Borno, four suspects: Zanna Alhaji Dala, 32; Musa Umar, 21; Mushe Ibrahim, 23, and Shehu Idris, 19 were arrested at Pomponari bye pass area of the state with 60 kilogrammes cannabis.

Also, in Osun, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Osogbo-Ode Omu road on new year day, intercepted a consignment of illicit drugs sent through waybill from Lagos to Osogbo. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of Ibrahim Olawale, 43. The drugs recovered include: cannabis sativa 10.8 kilogrammes; Loud 150 grammes; Colorado 19 grammes; Molly 5 grammes totalling 10.974 kilogrammes. A digital scale, N18,000 monetary exhibit and customized wrapping papers for Colorado were also seized.

Babafemi said NDLEA Commands across the 36 states and the FCT equally continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitisation lectures in schools, communities, work places and others.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) while commending the arrests and seizures of the past week by officers and men of the MMIA, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, and Osun Commands, charged them and their compatriots across all formations of the agency to continue to remain vigilant and double their drug demand reduction as well as drug supply reduction efforts in the new year.

Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD) a public procurement advocacy group has urged President Bola Tinubu to be impatial in the face of massive corruption allegations rocking the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and the National Social Investment Programme (NSIP), insisting that the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Beta Edu should equally be suspended and investigated just as NSIP CEO, Mrs Halima Shehu was treated.

A section of the media has reported how the Minister of Humanitarian Affiars and Poverty Alleviation through a memo dated 20th December, 2023 with reference number fmhapa/hq/ohm/s.208 directed the Accountant General of the Federation to make payments of N585,189,500 into a private UBA account 2003682151 belonging to one Oniyelu Bridget Mojisola.

In a statement signed and released to the press in Abuja on Saturday through its head of office, Mr Akingunola Omoniyi, NEFGAD said ‘’the recent development in the Humanitarian office has provided president Tinubu a golden opportunity to tell Nigerians and the whole world that he is ready and willing to tackle corruption in a fair, just and impartial manner by also applying same disciplinary measure (suspension) metted on NSIP CEO, Mrs Halima Shehu on the Minister for Humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation, Mrs Beta Edu’’

Akingunola noted that ‘’apart from the fact that Dr. Edu and Mrs. Halima Shehu are from different geographical divide of the country, the tendency and pattern of the allegations involving the duo are too identical and should not have attracted diffrent approaches and measures in dealing with them by the president.

‘’Directing payment of public fund into private account by a public officer is a serious procurent and fiscal malfeasance that attracts serious penalty under extant laws, regulations and rules including the public procurement, Fiscal Responsibility, Independent Corrupt Practices and other offences (ICPC), Code of Conduct Acts and the Anti-mobey Laundering (prevention and prohibition) Act.

Akingunola further stated that the Minister has serious questions to answer by Instructing payment of public fund into private accounts other than that of a legal entity who have duly participated in a competitive selection process and or are direct beneficiaries of a conditional grant scheme (in the case of vulnerable people as captured in the Ministry’s mandate).

The act depicts pure nepotism, favouritism, undue advantage conferment and criminal diversion, he averred. Hence, the group implored president Bola Tinubu to direct the suspension of the Dr. Beta Edu for thorough investigation by relevant anticorruption agencies with immediate effect failure which may call for massive advocacy and court action.
NSCDC to Educate Students on Addressing Security Threats

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has concluded plans to educate and enlighten school children on identifying potential threats and criminal elements that can cause them any harm within and outside their school premises.

The new Commander of the National Safe School Response Coordination Centre ( NSSRCC); Commandant Hammed Abodunrin said thatNSCDC as the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure with schools and institutions inclusive; all hands must be on deck in ensuring that school children are safe both at the learning environment and in their respective domain.

He noted that having served as the Ondo and Ogun State Commandant; he is fully aware of the enormous responsibility attached to his new appointment.

He further pointed out that the school children and their teachers would be properly sensitized and enlightened so that they would be able to detect imminent dangers and take necessary actions to avoid being victims.

Abodurin said: “The best form of security is the one you provide for yourselves and it requires a collective effort to empower and educate the school children regardless of their ages on the need to protect themselves and also to be able to identify potential danger when they see one.”

The New NSSRCC Commander appreciated the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr Ahmed Audi, for giving him a great opportunity to serve adding that the CG as a resourceful and exemplary leader has truly repositioned the Corps for better efficiency and performance.

He said: “the Commandant General hit the ground running when he came on board in 2021 and has brought lots of unprecedented transformation to the NSCDC and till date, he is not tired.

” As a formidable and focused leader, the CG has set a great standard and we must all key into his excellent and impactful agenda.”

Abodurin commended the outgoing Commander of the NSSRCC for his relentless efforts and the successful implementation of various programmes during his tenure of office.

In his address, the outgoing Commander; CSC Tersoo Shaapera acknowledged the enormous challenges that came with the appointment ab initio most especially as a pioneer commander of such a laudable and multitasking project; he however appreciated the team that he worked with assuring the new Commander of a fantastic working relationship.

The National Safe School Response Coordination Centre( NSSRCC) was established on the 13th of February 2023 for the sake of advocacy, sensitisation and capacity building regarding the Federal government’s Safe School Initiative Project and it is domiciled at the NSCDC national headquarters in Abuja. Efforts are ongoing to establish the centre in all states and local governments of the federation.
NDLEA Arrests female bandits’ supplier with cache of ammunition
Intercepts Colos consignment in boxing kits on New Year day

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on New Year day, Monday 1st January 2024 intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos a consignment of Colorado, a very strong strain of cannabis, concealed in boxing kits imported from the United States of America.

A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi said a weeklong intelligence-led operation to get the receiver arrested was consummated last Saturday following the successful tracking and arrest of 38-year-old Olorunfunmi Olakunle who distributes the dangerous psychoactive substance to dealers across Lagos state.

Babafemi said the consignment had arrived the country last Monday via Cairo on Egypt Airlines flight marked as boxing kits.

Olakunle during interrogation, disclosed that he has been delivering such consignments to different recipients whenever his childhood friend, US-based Sagir Salami sent them. The latest shipment has a total weight of 1.8 kilogrammes.

Meanwhile, a 28-year-old female supplier of ammunition to bandits, Bilkisu Suleiman came top on the list of 12 other suspects arrested by NDLEA operatives in new year interdiction operations in Kaduna, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, and Osun states.

Suleiman, according to the statement, was arrested last Wednesday by NDLEA officers on patrol along Zaria – Kano expressway in possession of 249 rounds of 7.62 mm live ammunition concealed in a black nylon bag kept in her lady’s handbag.

She was on her way to deliver the ammunition to an identified bandit in Kakumi village, Katsina state when she was nabbed after which she was transferred to the Kaduna state command of the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.

The military authorities at the Bonny camp cantonment in Lagos last Tuesday transferred a suspect, Francis Suru, 37 and 63 jumbo bags of Ghana Loud, a strain of cannabis, weighing 2,104.2 kilogrammes and a truck to the Lagos state command of NDLEA.

Babafemi said the suspect and the drug exhibits were earlier intercepted by NDLEA officers on 12th December 2023 close to the gate of the military cantonment in Bonny Camp, Victoria Island.

According to him, some armed escorts resorted to sporadic shooting to obstruct the operation, a development which attracted soldiers from the cantonment, who eventually intervened and took custody of the consignment and suspect before transferring them to the agency.

In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Niger state last Thursday during a stop and search operation along Suleja-Kaduna road intercepted a J5 bus coming from Ondo state to Zaria, Kaduna state with 23 bags of cannabis sativa weighing 219.5 kilogrammes. Two suspects: Umar Musa, 26 and Isachiru Abubakar were arrested in connection with the seizure.

Babafemi also disclosed that a female drug trafficker, Queen Onyema, 27, was arrested on Saturday 6th January in a commercial bus enroute Abuja along Okene-Lokoja expressway with 12 compressed blocks of cannabis weighing 4.6 kilogrammes and 0.046 kilogrammes designer drugs concealed in an indomie carton, another suspect Mubarak Sani, 20, was nabbed at Gadar Tamburawa area of Kano last Monday with 445.9 kilogrammes of the same psychoactive substance.

In Borno, four suspects: Zanna Alhaji Dala, 32; Musa Umar, 21; Mushe Ibrahim, 23, and Shehu Idris, 19 were arrested at Pomponari bye pass area of the state with 60 kilogrammes cannabis.

Also, in Osun, NDLEA operatives on patrol along Osogbo-Ode Omu road on new year day, intercepted a consignment of illicit drugs sent through waybill from Lagos to Osogbo. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of Ibrahim Olawale, 43. The drugs recovered include: cannabis sativa 10.8 kilogrammes; Loud 150 grammes; Colorado 19 grammes; Molly 5 grammes totalling 10.974 kilogrammes. A digital scale, N18,000 monetary exhibit and customized wrapping papers for Colorado were also seized.

Babafemi said NDLEA Commands across the 36 states and the FCT equally continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitisation lectures in schools, communities, work places and others.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) while commending the arrests and seizures of the past week by officers and men of the MMIA, Lagos, Niger, Kogi, Kano, Borno, and Osun Commands, charged them and their compatriots across all formations of the agency to continue to remain vigilant and double their drug demand reduction as well as drug supply reduction efforts in the new year.

A United Nations flagship economic report has raised an alarm that protracted period of low growth looms large, and could undermine progress on sustainable development.

According to the report released on Friday, weakening global trade, high borrowing costs, elevated public debt, persistently low investment, and mounting geopolitical tensions put global growth at risk.

The global economic growth is projected to slow from an estimated 2.7 per cent in 2023 to 2.4 per cent in 2024, trending below the pre-pandemic growth rate of 3.0 per cent, according to the United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) 2024, launched on Friday.

This latest forecast comes on the heels of global economic performance exceeding expectations in 2023. However, last year’s stronger-than-expected GDP growth masked short-term risks and structural vulnerabilities, according to the report.

The UN’s flagship economic report presents a sombre economic outlook for the near term. Persistently high interest rates, further escalation of conflicts, sluggish international trade, and increasing climate disasters, pose significant challenges to global growth.

The report stated that the prospects of a prolonged period of tighter credit conditions and higher borrowing costs present strong headwinds for a world economy saddled with debt, while in need of more investments to resuscitate growth, fight climate change and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Reacting to the report, the United Nations Secretary- General, António Guterres, said: “2024 must be the year when we break out of this quagmire. By unlocking big, bold investments we can drive sustainable development and climate action, and put the global economy on a stronger growth path for all,” adding that:
“We must build on the progress made in the past year towards an SDG Stimulus of at least $500 billion per year in affordable long-term financing for investments in sustainable development and climate action.”

The report stated that growth in several large, developed economies, especially the United States, is projected to decelerate in 2024 given high interest rates, slowing consumer spending and weaker labour markets. The short-term growth prospects for many developing countries – particularly in East Asia, Western Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean – are also deteriorating because of tighter financial conditions, shrinking fiscal space and sluggish external demand.

Low-income and vulnerable economies are facing increasing balance-of-payments pressures and debt sustainability risks. Economic prospects for small island developing States, in particular, will be constrained by heavy debt burdens, high interest rates and increasing climate-related vulnerabilities, which threaten to undermine, and in some cases, even reverse gains made on the SDGs, according to the report.

The report further showed that global inflation is projected to decline further, from an estimated 5.7 per cent in 2023 to 3.9 per cent in 2024. Price pressures are, however, still elevated in many countries and any further escalation of geopolitical conflicts risks renewed increases in inflation.

In about a quarter of all developing countries, annual inflation is projected to exceed 10 per cent in 2024, the report highlighted, showing that since January 2021, consumer prices in developing economies have increased by a cumulative 21.1 per cent, significantly eroding the economic gains made following the COVID-19 recovery. Amid supply-side disruptions, conflicts and extreme weather events, local food price inflation remained high in many developing economies, disproportionately affecting the poorest households.

“Persistently high inflation has further set back progress in poverty eradication, with especially severe impacts in the least developed countries,” said United Nations Under- Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Li Junhua,.

He said: “It is absolutely imperative that we strengthen global cooperation and the multilateral trading system, reform development finance, address debt challenges and scale up climate financing to help vulnerable countries accelerate towards a path of sustainable and inclusive growth.”

According to the report, the global labour markets have seen an uneven recovery from the pandemic crisis. In developed economies, labour markets have remained resilient despite a slowdown in growth. However, in many developing countries, particularly in Western Asia and Africa, key employment indicators, including unemployment rates, are yet to return to pre- pandemic levels. The global gender employment gap remains high, and gender pay gaps not only persist but have even widened in some occupations.
Stronger international cooperation needed to stimulate growth and promote green transition.

It advised that Governments will need to avoid self-defeating fiscal consolidations and expand fiscal support to stimulate growth at a time when global monetary conditions will remain tight, adding that Central banks around the world continue to face difficult trade-offs in striking a balance between inflation, growth and financial stability objectives. Developing country central banks, in particular, will need to deploy a broad range of macroeconomic and macroprudential policy tools to minimize the adverse spillover effects of monetary tightening in developed economies.

Furthermore, the report emphasized that robust and effective global cooperation initiatives are urgently needed to avoid debt crises and provide adequate financing to developing countries. Low-income countries and middle-income countries with vulnerable fiscal situations need debt relief and debt restructuring to avoid a protracted cycle of weak investment, slow growth and high debt-servicing burdens.

It added that in addition, global climate finance must be massively scaled up. Reducing – and eventually eliminating – fossil fuel subsidies, following through on international financing commitments, such as the $100 billion pledge to support developing countries, and promoting technology transfer are critical for strengthening climate action worldwide. It also underscores the ever- increasing role of industrial policies to bolster innovation and productive capacity, build resilience and accelerate a green transition.

Mercy Corps, an international humanitarian organisation, has commended the Nigerian government for ensuring the free passage of one of its senior staff, Joel Onyeke, serving in the war torn Gaza.

The organisation particularly made mentioned of the contribution of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar for facilitating the swift and safe passage of the said personnel.

Chief Executive Officer, Mercy Corps Tjada D’ oyen McKenna in an appreciation letter to the minister thanked him for his prompt and professional response to their distress call.

“We want to thank you sincerely for your attention and swift action after our recent request for your advocacy and assistance in facilitating the safe passage of our team member, Mr. Joel Onyeke out of Gaza.

“After three harrowing weeks in a United Nations Development Programme bunker, on November 1st Onyeke safely crossed the Rafah border crossing from Gaza into Egypt and by November 3rd he was reunited with his family in Abuja.”

Onyeke, a cash advisor with Mercy Corps, was the only foreign national team member employed in Gaza.

Mercy Corps also thanked the Federal Government for the support while stressing on the need for a humanitarian corridor for aid delivery to Gaza as well as for the safe passage of foreign nationals out of Gaza.

McKenna said: “There is more work to be done to ensure the safety of all citizens in Palestine and Israel.

“We are hopeful for an end to this crises soon so that communities can begin to rebuild, humanitarian actors can continue to work for a stronger and more inclusive economy.”

Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has reiterated its profound joy and appreciation to the federal government for establishing the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

A press statement signed by the National President of the association, Hon. Khalil Bello read that the pastoral communities of the Northeast were initially filled with great enthusiasm and hope upon the establishment of the NEDC. They were led to believe that the commission was established with the specific purpose of reconstructing the region after the devastating impact of Boko Haram activities, providing support to vulnerable and internally displaced individuals, and revitalizing communities that have suffered tremendously from these tragic events.

The statement read that: “The pastoralists’ highest excitement was innocently based on these promises, and they celebrated the establishment of the NEDC with the anticipation of much-needed assistance.

“However, KACRAN has been disheartened to find that, despite the high regard in which they hold the members of the NEDC’s governing board, the pastoralists’interests seem to have been overlooked as the commission commenced its operations. It has become apparent that the focus of the NEDC’s efforts has been on the urban centers and refugee camps, which are more visible to the presidency and the international community, rather than on the rural areas and villages that have been severely impacted by the aforementioned calamities.

“Representing a significant number of pastoralists who have been ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgency and cattle rustling, KACRAN has voiced its grievances and concerns to the NEDC and the presidency through national media outlets, including print, electronic, and social platforms.

“KACRAN’s primary concerns include the marginalization and neglect by the Commission, the dire need for access to potable water for both people and livestock, the provision of animal feed during the dry season, inclusion in the periodic distribution of relief materials, and the integration of its members’ urgent needs into the Commission’s policies and programmes, including annual budget allocations.”

The statement added that: “It is encouraging to note that during a meeting facilitated by the NEDC Head of Operation at the Oasis Hotel in Damaturu, Yobe State, KACRAN was assured that the commission would attentively consider its valid concerns and act accordingly.This meeting, followed by the distribution of relief materials to our communities, fortified their optimism that the NEDC would indeed address their critical needs, such as the provision of potable water.

“Regrettably, till the NEDC’s first tenure drew to a close, these assurances have yet to be fully realized. KACRAN remains hopeful and prays earnestly for the fulfillment of these commitments.

“KACRAN calls upon the NEDC to uphold the principles of justice and equity and to ensure that the pastoralists of the Northeast are not forgotten but are actively included in the region’s recovery and development efforts.”

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has warned all government Ministries , Agencies, Embassies and High Commissions as well as Diaspora groups to beware of phoney groups with apparent sinister and political ulterior motives, parading as authentic diaspora group.

A statement by the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols Unit of NIDCOM, Abdur-Rahman Balogun on Tuesday in Abuja specifically mentioned a group, Nigeria Diaspora Forum (NDF) who claimed it has established an office in Abuja for the welfare of Nigerians in the Diaspora.

He alleged that the so-called Forum, “an arm of Labour Party, masquerading as a diaspora group , is not even registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.”

Balogun said: “We are aware that all registered political parties including the ruling party, APC, PDP, SDP, NNPP and even LP, etc have diaspora chapters and support groups outside the country and do work to promote and champion their party ideals.

“It is equally sinister that an unregistered body with the Corporate Affairs Commission will fraudulently and boldly announce the setting up of an office to oversee the welfare of Nigerians in Diaspora in Abuja.

“This is no doubt an attempt to fraudulently hoodwink unsuspecting members of the public , ministries, departments and agencies, embassies, high commissions as well as state and local governments.

“We hereby advise all government agencies at both the federal and state levels as well as the diplomatic community to always double check with NIDCOM the status of such groups as NIDCOM has a data base of all registered diaspora groups.”

Balogun added that: “NIDCOM is using this opportunity to also remind all that States have diaspora focal persons who are readily available to handle issues relating to their diaspora.

“NIDCOM is the only Commission mandated by an act of the Parliament to oversee the welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora, in the last four years.

“It has been, and will continue to fulfill its mandate, while also working with genuine Nigerian diaspora groups, associations and individuals.”
KACRAN Reiterates Appreciation For Establishment of NEDC, Advocates Equity and Justice for Pastoralists

Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has reiterated its profound joy and appreciation to the federal government for establishing the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

A press statement signed by the National President of the association, Hon. Khalil Bello read that the pastoral communities of the Northeast were initially filled with great enthusiasm and hope upon the establishment of the NEDC. They were led to believe that the commission was established with the specific purpose of reconstructing the region after the devastating impact of Boko Haram activities, providing support to vulnerable and internally displaced individuals, and revitalizing communities that have suffered tremendously from these tragic events.

The statement read that: “The pastoralists’ highest excitement was innocently based on these promises, and they celebrated the establishment of the NEDC with the anticipation of much-needed assistance.

“However, KACRAN has been disheartened to find that, despite the high regard in which they hold the members of the NEDC’s governing board, the pastoralists’interests seem to have been overlooked as the commission commenced its operations. It has become apparent that the focus of the NEDC’s efforts has been on the urban centers and refugee camps, which are more visible to the presidency and the international community, rather than on the rural areas and villages that have been severely impacted by the aforementioned calamities.

“Representing a significant number of pastoralists who have been ravaged by the Boko Haram insurgency and cattle rustling, KACRAN has voiced its grievances and concerns to the NEDC and the presidency through national media outlets, including print, electronic, and social platforms.

“KACRAN’s primary concerns include the marginalization and neglect by the Commission, the dire need for access to potable water for both people and livestock, the provision of animal feed during the dry season, inclusion in the periodic distribution of relief materials, and the integration of its members’ urgent needs into the Commission’s policies and programmes, including annual budget allocations.”

The statement added that: “It is encouraging to note that during a meeting facilitated by the NEDC Head of Operation at the Oasis Hotel in Damaturu, Yobe State, KACRAN was assured that the commission would attentively consider its valid concerns and act accordingly.This meeting, followed by the distribution of relief materials to our communities, fortified their optimism that the NEDC would indeed address their critical needs, such as the provision of potable water.

“Regrettably, till the NEDC’s first tenure drew to a close, these assurances have yet to be fully realized. KACRAN remains hopeful and prays earnestly for the fulfillment of these commitments.

“KACRAN calls upon the NEDC to uphold the principles of justice and equity and to ensure that the pastoralists of the Northeast are not forgotten but are actively included in the region’s recovery and development efforts.”
NGO Commends Nigerian government intervention in getting staff from war-torn Gaza

Mercy Corps, an international humanitarian organisation, has commended the Nigerian government for ensuring the free passage of one of its senior staff, Joel Onyeke, serving in the war torn Gaza.

The organisation particularly made mentioned of the contribution of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar for facilitating the swift and safe passage of the said personnel.

Chief Executive Officer, Mercy Corps Tjada D’ oyen McKenna in an appreciation letter to the minister thanked him for his prompt and professional response to their distress call.

“We want to thank you sincerely for your attention and swift action after our recent request for your advocacy and assistance in facilitating the safe passage of our team member, Mr. Joel Onyeke out of Gaza.

“After three harrowing weeks in a United Nations Development Programme bunker, on November 1st Onyeke safely crossed the Rafah border crossing from Gaza into Egypt and by November 3rd he was reunited with his family in Abuja.”

Onyeke, a cash advisor with Mercy Corps, was the only foreign national team member employed in Gaza.

Mercy Corps also thanked the Federal Government for the support while stressing on the need for a humanitarian corridor for aid delivery to Gaza as well as for the safe passage of foreign nationals out of Gaza.

McKenna said: “There is more work to be done to ensure the safety of all citizens in Palestine and Israel.

“We are hopeful for an end to this crises soon so that communities can begin to rebuild, humanitarian actors can continue to work for a stronger and more inclusive economy.”