Delta State Government, Tuesday, said it would prosecute anybody who constructs speed breakers on roads in the state without approval from the state Ministry of Works. 

The Commissioner for Works in charge of Rural and Riverine Roads, Mr. Charles Aniagwu disclosed this in an interview with journalists shortly after inspecting the 4.04 kilometres  Emevor/Ivrogbo/Orogun Road, (phase l) in Isoko North and the 240 meters Palace Road, Evwreni in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state. 

Mr. Aniagwu noted that the indiscriminate construction of speed breakers on roads in the state was quite disturbing, adding that it makes
nonsense of the efforts of government. 

He said the state government has made it abundantly clear that nobody, no matter how highly placed, should proceed to construct any speed breaker on any of the roads without permission from the Ministry Works. 

The Commissioner pointed out that anyone desiring to construct a speed breaker must come to the Ministry of Works for assessment and possible approval before such speed breaker could be constructed. 

“We have made it abundantly clear that nobody, no matter how highly placed, should proceed to construct any speed breaker on any of our roads with permission from the Ministry Works. 

“We must make sure that such speed breaker is not the type that will undermine the vehicles or any other mobile facilities that will have to transverse such corridors. 

“The reason why that is so, is that we have noticed that some persons will just go and construct speed breakers indiscriminately. For instance, if you go to Umutu/Eku Road, you will see the amount of speed breakers on that particular road. 

“Apart from the fact that it is disturbing, it makes nonsense of the efforts of government and we will proceed to prosecute anybody who decides to cut through the government roads without permission. 

“Yes, there are some communities where you may need speed breakers for the safety of our people but such will be with discussion with the Ministry. 

“We will assess the quality of speed breaker and its necessity so that at the end of the day, while we save the people; people who are also commuting on that road will not have to go through some harrowing experience on such corridors,” he added. 

The Commissioner, also, said burning of tyres along tarred roads was strictly prohibited because, according to him, once you do that, either in the name of protest, you would have ended up melting the asphalt in that place which is not acceptable. 

While urging residents of the state to desist from such act, Mr. Aniagwu charged benefitting communities of government projects to take ownership of such projects, even as he implored them to cooperate with contractors handling projects in their areas. 

The Commissioner applauded the management of the company handling the two projects for the speed that they have brought to bear in the execution of the projects. 

He disclosed that the Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration was very interested in patronising indigenous contractors provided that such contractors were ready to do the right job so that at the end of the day, the state government and Deltans would not have any reason to regret. 

Not too long ago, Aniagwu said, the governor approved almost N30 billion that was paid to different contractors, adding that, that was why a whole lot of contractors have moved to sites. 

“We are already making plans in not too distant time to, also, continuously pay so that the contractors will continue to work and our people will continue to get value for the jobs we have awarded for ease of movement across the 25 local government areas we have in the state. 

“We have continued to sensitise the people to enable them know that the projects in their communities are not for the government, that it is their community project and that it belongs to them. 

“So, it behoves on communities, whether it is my community in Akumazi or any other community in the state to continue to cooperate with the state government and with the contractors engaged to carry out projects, no matter the kind of project be it school, be it road, be it housing units, whatever project it is that government is siting in your community, it is important that residents of benefiting communities take ownership of such projects. 

“We have visited two road projects today. The first one we visited is Emevor/Ivrogbo/Orogun Road, phase l and it is about 4.04 kilometres and the contractor, Emo Rock Construction has already started the process of applying the stone base. 

“We saw that they have progressed very considerably and we are impressed with what they are doing. From what they have done so far, we are quite convinced that the road will stand the test of time. 

“lf every other indigenous contractors emulate that kind of work, we will in no distant time, have our indigenous contractors having to go outside the shores of this country where they will also be regarded as international contractors. 

“This second road is the Palce Road in Evwreni which cuts across the residence of the palace of the king of Evwreni. It is 240 meters but the drain is about 500 meters. 

“This area used to be seriously water logged but by the time you see what the contractor has done, you may not even appreciate it much because you were not here before this construction began. 

“You may be surprised that this project was just awarded barely a month ago. You can see the amount of work this indigenous contractor has done. 

“We will continue this interface with the contractors; we will continue to look at different projects. This particular road is a fresh construction that we awarded about a month ago,” the Commissioner added. 

Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) on Tuesday November 21, 2023 inducted seven new members into the forum

The induction ceremony was held at the Ministry of Information conference hall with seven new members joining the forum as news publishers.

In his opening remarks, DOPF chairman, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli noted that the forum has a rich history of excellence, therefore, it is the collective duty of all members to uphold the ethics of the journalism profession.

While advising the new inductees to always carry themselves as Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of their different organisations, Mr Enebeli pleaded that members should continue to pursue one aim.

The Vice chairman, Deacon Chukwudi Abiandu, while responding said that DOPF is not an affiliate of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), neither it’s a chapel of the NUJ, but a forum of entrepreneurs in the business of online newspaper publishing.

“We are employers of labour, we are autonomous. Our operation is backed up by the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended”.

The inductees are, Mr Oweh Julius, publisher of The Pond News, Mr Jikeme Smart, publisher of Fidelity Reporters, Ogwuda Austin, publisher of The Town Hall and Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, publisher of Pebnews.

Others are Mr. Daniel Oji, publisher of Actual News, Mr. Celestine Ukah, publisher of Area News, and Mrs. Christy Aboghe, publisher of The Hill Nigeria.

The oath of allegiance was administered by Secretary to the Board of Trustees (BoT) and Chairman of admission committee, Mr. Albert Ograka, publisher of Blank NEWS Online. He was accompanied by the Secretary General of DOPF, Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, publisher of The Advocate.

As part of strategies to boost media business of the publishers, two financial institutions, Bank of Industry (BoI) and Premium Trust Bank were invited to talk to members on how raise funds to grow the publishing outfits.

Representatives of both banks were present at the induction ground where they delivered lectures on possibilities and eligibility criteria to raise funds through loans to boost either their publishing business or other ventures they deem necessary.

DOPF members from across the country and the state were in attendance.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Monday, identified harsh and hostile operating environment, poor basic infrastructure, insecurity and policy flip flops as disincentive to both local and foreign investments in Nigeria.

Governor Oborevwori also remarked that the nation’s tax to GDP ratio was low because of harsh operating business environment and called for the removal of institutional bottlenecks to the ease of doing business in the country.

He stated this in his keynote address at the 2023 Federal Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) retreat with theme: “Creating a resilient economy through diversification of the nation’s reserve base” held at the Events Centre, Asaba, the Delta State capital.

Represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori frowned at the non commital of the CBN to be responsive to the clarity and correctional demands made to it by FAAC, in relation to the management of the Federation Account.

He also called on the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to quickly verify the data earlier submitted by the three tiers of government.

According to the Governor, Nigeria’s tax to GDP ratio is comparatively low, about 10-12%, which makes the country vulnerable to disruptions in the global economy.

“A strong, resilient, and competitive economy, requires a flourishing private sector. But there are problems. Structurally, the private sector is largely weak, unorganised, and challenged.

“The operating environment is harsh and hostile to the ease of doing business. Poor basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, transportation, security, are strong disincentives to investments, local or foreign.

“Also, frequent policy flip flops and an inefficient bureaucracy are anything but helpful to the ease of doing business in Nigeria,” he stated.

While commending members of FAAC for their commitment and dedication to duty and for the correction of wrong computations and refunds to oil producing states of the Federation, the Governor added that much work still needs to be done on the payments of 13% derivation, since the coming into force of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

“Since the implementation of the PIA, a lot of concerns have been raised by stakeholders of this sector in respect of the new roles of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as it affects inflows of revenue into the Federation Account. It is my hope that this retreat will address these concerns and lay them to rest permanently.

“Tax is the dividend of a thriving private sector. For us to reap the benefits, we need to, as a matter of exigency, remove the institutional bottlenecks that make the cost of doing business in Nigeria unbearably high.

“It is only after we have done this that we can realistically expect to widen the tax base and diversify the economy. It is inevitable that where the cost of doing business is frustratingly high, tax evasion and tax avoidance will be pervasive.

“In conclusion, it is my considered view that the issue of economic diversification must move beyond rhetoric.

“Concrete, measurable steps need to be taken now to facilitate non-oil exports, expand the revenue base, and make economic diversification a reality.

“Here in Delta State, for instance, we have created a Trade and Export Unit to drive the process. Let me also stress that in seeking to facilitate the growth of non-oil exports as canvassed, there is a compelling need to ensure that the oil and gas sector is consistently operating at its optimum,” Oborevwori said.

Earlier in his welcome remark, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Chief Olawale Edun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr. Okokon Ekanem, appreciated Governor Oborevwori and the Delta State Government for accepting to host the retreat.

He said in six months of the Bola Tinubu administration, the nation had witnessed important reforms such as Petroleum subsidy removal, fiscal and monetary policy reforms aimed at removing multiple taxation, streamlining and simplifying tax administration as well as achieving single foreign exchange market.

He said the reforms have gained commendations not only by experts in Nigeria but by the international development partners such as the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank among others.

“We believe these reforms are what Nigerians need at this point and we are on course to achieving the objectives of these reforms.

“The Federation Account is witnessing improved revenue inflows since the removal of subsidy from the average of N650 billion monthly to over N1 trillion in the last four months.

“Government has long realised that Petroleum subsidy is unsustainable giving that erodes revenues that should have been used to fund viable expenditures that are critical to the well-being of the populace.

“As we continue implement our policies, we will remain mindful of the needs and welfare of Nigerians.

“We all know that achieving tax revenue to GDP target of 22 per cent and tax to GDP of 18 per cent by 2026 are part of the terminal objectives of this administration.

“However in doing that, we appreciate the need not to overburden the tax payers by introducing so many new taxes. What is necessary to be done is to broaden the tax base, simplify and streamline tax administration for ease of collection,” Edun stated.

The retreat is being attended by Commissioners of Finance, Accountants-General of States, NNPCL, Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Customs and other revenue generation organs of government.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr Ogbonnaya Orji has called for the creation of special squadron to ward off threat and insecurity at various mining sites in Nigeria and elsewhere in West Africa.

In his keynote address at the gathering of stakeholders from different mining communities in West Africa to deliberate and find solutions to the common challenges that are confronting mining activities in the region organized by the international Non-governmental Organisation (INGO), Global Rights and Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA), Orji said there is need for the creation of a special squadron for the mining sector to fight insecurity and other issues affecting the mining district.

Orji while noting that Africa is blessed with abundant mineral resources, ranging from gold and diamonds to oil and gas, added that “these resources hold the promise of transformation, the potential to elevate the lives of our people, and to power the development of our nations”.

He however expressed concern that the communities where these resources are gotten from are often left vulnerable and continue to face several security challenges.

He said: “The challenges faced by these mining host communities need urgent resolutions. There is a need for collaboration with security agencies and mining host communities to help curb insecurity in the mining sector.

“It is also the responsibility of the government to ensure that the wealth derived from our minerals is utilised for the common good, and are equitably shared among our people, the environment is protected for generation to come and that the human rights of the people are well protected. “

Also speaking, the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, who hailed the enthusiasm of the stakeholders for embracing the ideas and proposing many pathways to achieving the roadmap, said Nigeria government shall continue to ensure good business and security for mining host communities by ensuring policy consistency and adequate security.

While commending Global Rights for continuous work in protecting and advocating for marginalized communities, the Minister charged the stakeholders to be guided by the principles of transparency, accountability and shared responsibility.

The international Non-governmental Organisation (INGO), Global Rights and Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA) who organized the gathering expressed worry over the growing challenges facing mining host communities in West Africa, insisting that the troubled communities need to come together, deliberate and find solutions to the common challenges that they are confronted with.

Global Rights in conjunction with Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA) have gathered the stakeholders in Abuja for the 2023 West African Mining Host Communities’, called INDABA.

The West African Mining Host Communities INDABA is a Natural Resource Governance Summit that provides a critical platform for Mining Host Communities in West Africa to engage and have critical conversations on strengthening safeguards for the sustainability of mining host communities in the subregion.

Speaking at the conference, the Executive Director of Global Rights, Abiodun Baiyewu, said the conference is aimed at bringing together the host communities to deliberate and find solutions to the common challenges that they are confronted with as West Africans.

“It’s a platform for an open and inclusive dialogue where ideas, experiences and solutions are shared collectively.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the wealth of West Africa’s minerals benefits the many, rather than the few and that becomes a catalyst for peace, development, and progress” She said.

A communique issued at the end of the conference stated that sustainable West African Regional Policy Initiatives must reflect the United Nations Guiding
Principles of protect, respect and access to remedies.

It also highlighted that the sub-region must expedite processes to adapt National Action Plans on Business
and Human Rights.

The conference pointed out that policies on water management, and sustainable resource management should be coherent
with climate-smart mining as an environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practice in the mining industry in Africa.

Hon. Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, has expressed his commitment to the implementation of the recommendations emanating from the Judges’ Retreat which took place from 15 – 19 November, 2023 at Global Village Suites in Nasarawa, a federated state of Nigeria.

In his remarks delivered during the closing ceremony of the retreat, Justice Asante rated the retreat as highly successful and among the best retreats organized by the Court.

He stressed that the recommendations adopted will make it possible for the Court to adopt additional Practice Directions to guide parties and lawyers appearing before the Court and the Court’s Registry on some matters on which the Rules of the Court are unclear.

The Judges Retreat under the theme “Strengthening the ECOWAS Court of Justice”, focused on various issues relating to the judicial practice of the Court.

The participants including the judges of the Court, as well as directors and legal officers, reviewed the Rules of Procedure of the Court on aspects which seemed ambiguous, and which posed problems of implementation.

Among the provisions examined were the Rules governing award of compensation, the processing of requests for extension of time, the management of requests for judgment by default and consolidation of cases.

Participants also discussed guidelines on the scheduling of cases, handling of preliminary objections and the currency in which compensation should be awarded.

The Vice-President of the Court, Hon Justice Gbéri-Bè Ouattara also delivered a vote of thanks during the closing ceremony. He expressed his gratitude to all participants for their zeal and commitment to the objectives of the retreat.

He commended them for their immense contribution and their diligence which resulted in relevant recommendations and resolutions.

Nigeria has called all other members of Economic Community Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to rally behind her to find solution to biodiversity and climate change to ward off environmental disaster that is not only threatening the region but the entire planet.

The Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Iziaq Salami made the call on Monday while giving his opening remarks at the coordination meeting held in Abuja of ECOWAS Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ).

He said: “Our oceans require strong protection that can only be achieved through a new treaty for the conservation and management of marine life in the high seas. This treaty must ensure that human activities are managed to prevent significant adverse impacts, with vigorous oversight mechanisms and provisions to establish fully and highly protected MPAs in the high seas.”

He admitted that: “With the adoption of the high-seas treaty last June, we are one step closer to achieving our goals. In September this year, at the High Ambition for the High Seas event on the sideline of UNGA, Nigeria joined other 22 countries to symbolically sign a commitment to ratify the BBNJ treaty. We must now rally to ratify the new high-seas treaty promptly so it can come into force.”

Salako added that: “We are proud that through Nigeria’s rallying efforts, the 55 member States of the African Union have reached a consensus to support ratifying at the earliest feasible date, the new high-seas treaty, as enshrined in Addis Ababa Declaration adopted at the 19th ordinary session of Africa Ministerial Conference on the Environment (AMCEN). Three months since the 19th AMCEN, we should move from saying earliest feasible date to a more specific period for Africa to ratify the BBNJ treaty. ECOWAS can lead the way in this direction.”

He said: “I’m honored to welcome you all to Nigeria as we once again gather to find solutions to the biodiversity and climate crisis that is gripping our planet, our subregion not exempted.

“They are part of the same crisis, and we cannot solve one without solving the other.”

The status of the world’s oceans today is a clear indication of this dire interaction, he stressed, noting that: “Our oceans are under threat today more than ever before with sea level rise, temperature increases, acidification, pollution, biodiversity loss, unsustainable exploitation of marine resources, depletion of fish stocks, the near disappearance of coral reefs, and the destruction of fragile ecosystems.

“The urgent need to address this threat has led Nigeria and its sister ECOWAS member nations to unite and call on the international community to be more ambitious in its response.

“Our appeal for an ambitious global response to the biodiversity crisis is urgent and focused.

“Through the urgent appeal, we had identified several measures as essential, including the global designation of 30% of land and oceans areas as protected by 2030, the conclusion of a robust new high-seas treaty, the establishment of highly and fully protected areas covering 30% of the global ocean which prohibit environmentally damaging activities, and a global commitment towards immediately halting human-induced extinction of wild species, among others.”

The Minister acknowledged that today, only 7% of the world’s oceans are protected, adding that there are no comprehensive legal mechanisms in place to protect the high seas and the deep seabed areas, the shared international areas of oceans that lie beyond national jurisdictions and that include almost 70% of the global ocean.

Salako said: “The meeting you are attending today provides a pathway to support ECOWAS countries in reaching this important goal. Prompt ratification of the high-seas treaty and effective engagement in its implementation is an urgent priority for the preservation of our oceans.

“We have a shared responsibility to act and protect the oceans because we all share in the benefits provided by our oceans and because we all share in the harm that comes when degraded coastal and marine ecosystems threaten the physical, economic, food security of local communities, and multinational businesses. Failing to protect our oceans would be catastrophic.”

Salako, reiterated that if the challenge is not addressed, the impacts for people will be profound, while expressing optimism, he said: “It is my sincere hope that you can work together in the next few days to make swift, real progress towards setting a path for prompt ratification of the high-seas treaty in our region and on our continent.

“We must act to protect our oceans now, and we must be bold if we have any hope of preserving our planet for our people and our future generation.”

The Minister advocated that member states should lead the way together for nature, adding that government through the Ministry is committed to ratifying BBNJ treaty in line with the focus of President Bola Tinubu to pursue development by unlocking the energy and natural resources of the nation in a sustainable manner.

Earlier, Director, Environment Department, ECOWAS, Moussa Leko, noted that the meeting is a natural follow-up to other coordination meetings organized by ECOWAS to support its members states in their joint efforts promoting ambition for the world’s response to the biodiversity crisis at CITES and at CBD.

He said: “Having carefully reviewed the outcomes of both the CBD CoP15 meeting, and the CITES CoP19 meeting, I can directly see that West Africa is a leading voice for biodiversity protection globally. Not only that, but our region is demonstrating collaboration, expertise, and strength in its advocacy for our natural heritage.”

He noted that: “The ambition of ECOWAS countries has been instrumental in securing positive outcomes from the CITES and CBD meetings and we see our positions clearly reflected in the decisions adopted by the global community. For this, the ECOWAS Commission owes you a sincere debt of gratitude. You are worthy biodiversity ambassadors for our wonderful West African region.”

He however added that: “The task upon us today is to ensure that the vital ECOWAS Appeal to the Global community, calling for an Ambitious Global Response to the Biodiversity Crisis continues to be heard loud and clear. This appeal represents a fundamental truth, which is that we must take robust action now, to protect our planet.

“We must urgently protect biodiversity in order to preserve ecosystem services vital to human well-being, and the livelihood of our local communities. Losing these services or standing idle while our communities go impoverished and hungry would result in an unimaginable future. It cannot be considered an option.
I encourage you to continue expanding your coordination to ensure our region is provided all the tools it needs to implement an ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework and an ambitious CITES agenda.

“We are ready to strengthen and expand our protected areas, we are ready to protect and recover our wild species. We are ready to act to protect our biodiversity, our ecosystem services, our magical and unique environments.”

:By Austen Akhagbeme;

A foremost Governorship aspirant of the Labour Party ( LP) in Edo State, Dr. Azemhe Azena has called for help from concerned citizens and the government to address the growing rate of suicide, especially among men in Nigeria.

The popular politician said this in a statement signed by his media team in celebration of the international Men’s Day 2023 as declared by the United Nations.

The event which is aimed at celebrating men’s positive contribution to society, family, marriage, child care and the environment also focuses on the emotional well-being of the man vis-a-vis the adverse economic conditions men face to make ends meet.

Dr Azemhe Azena, in line with the theme for this year, 2023, titled “Zero male suicide”, called for the attention of the government and relevant Agencies and organizations to look for a lasting solution to the growing rate of suicide today.

“A major part of the solution may not be too far from the prevailing economic situation in our world today which seeks to put pressure on the men-folk who are mostly breadwinners in their homes” he said.

The ebullient philanthropist called for humanitarian organizations and public-spirited Nigerians to do more for society to mitigate unemployment in the country.

In another development, Dr Azemhe Azena’s popular mass mobilisation program tagged “The Azemhe Mega Summit” is billed to take place in Auchi, Edo North senatorial district December 2nd.

The Summit witnessed a huge turnout of lovers, sympathizers and supporters of the Azemhe mandate in its earlier episodes in Benin- city in Edo South and Ekpoma in Edo Centre respectively.

Director General of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Dr Joseph Ochogwu has said that leadership failure is one of the root causes of the dwindling economic fortune of Nigeria.

Ochogwu, gave the verdict on Friday during the conferment of the Honorary Fellow of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) on former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon rtd.

The Investiture on the Former Head of State was part of the Experiential Leadership Series in Africa themed: Post Crisis Cohesion in Africa: Leadership and the practice of no victor no vanquished.

He said: “in recent decades, Nigeria and Africa as a whole has been confronted with heightened spate of crime, insecurity and in particular leadership crisis and this has caused a decline in her economic growth and development.

“The narrative of political leadership in the African continent is replete with corruption, misgovernance, nepotism, mediocrity, abuse of power, human rights abuse and mismanagement.

“This happens in a continent endowed with huge deposits of mineral resources, vast arable lands for agriculture, huge earnings from mineral resources’ exportation and strategic location in the world map.

“Additionally, the phenomenon of leadership failure has continued to pose a serious challenge to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Union – Agenda 2063 in the continent.

“The United Nations for instance, sets the 17 SDGs as the developmental plan targeted to be achieved by all nations in the year 2023.

“Since the SDGs came on stream in 2015, the African nations have been grappling with acute poverty, hunger, malnutrition, illiteracy, unemployment, demeaning political culture of ‘Winner takes All’ and the latest reign of coup d’états.

“Indeed, Leadership failure is at the heart of these challenges.

“Furthermore, the damning challenges have continued to connote fundamental threats to peace, stability, security and economic development in the African continent,” Ochogwu said.

He added that the Institute is partnering with TEL-Africa to advance conversations around leadership issues, security and socio-economic development in Africa.

The aim is to bring African leaders and past leaders to share their experiences on how they’ve been able to manage some certain practices that they face towards transgenerational, peacebuilding.

“You recall that former head of state General Yakubu, who presided over the Civil War, was able to manage Nigeria in the pre Civil War era, in terms of, no victor, no vanquished.

“We need to understand how to build cohesion in a society that is highly heterogeneous,”he stated.

Ochogwu also appealed to the government and leaders in Nigeria and Africa to consciously and deliberately implement policies that are inclusive, that makes for elite consensus and looks out for positive political settlement, and that’s the only way to build our nations and build nations of Africa.

Speaking at the award, General Gowon asked Nigerians to believe and love their country, noting that the country still has a great potential.

The Federal Government has decried that about 25 percent of people living in the country still defecate openly, insisting that this has led to high rate of diarrhea that is the second highest killer of children in Nigeria.

Nigeria is populated by over 200 million people, and according to the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas has about 48 million people still practicing open defecation.

Speaking at a joint press briefing of the Ministries of Environment, and Water Resources and Sanitation to highlight the activities scheduled for the World Toilet Day, Abbas said this year’s theme: ‘Accelerating Change’ “is quite apt as it inspires every individual to take personal action to help improve toilets and sanitation systems. It underscores the fact that every sector and every Nigerian can do something and has a role to play in tackling the sanitation crisis.”

He noted that “toilets are a foundation stone of public health and they play an important role in protecting the environment. They effectively and hygienically remove human waste away from the home, reducing the exposure our loved ones have to human waste and diseases.

“Unfortunately, toilets and the sanitation systems that support them are underfunded, poorly managed or neglected in many parts of the world including Nigeria with devastating consequences for health, economics and the environment particularly in the poorest and most marginalized communities. Right now, about 4.2 billion people in the world live without safe toilets and about 48 million Nigerians still practice open defecation, as many people still use the bush and water bodies as their regular means for excreta disposal.

“Many institutions, public and private, do not have sanitary facilities and where they exist they are either not functioning or misused. Most urban areas do not have sewerage systems and safe collection of sewage. Therefore, disposal becomes a huge challenge as many of the water bodies including rivers and streams become a repository for sewage and wastewater.”

He added that: “The sanitation crisis poses a threat to our natural environment and the health of citizens, particularly women, girls and other vulnerable groups. One of the major consequences of poor excreta and sewage disposal is the high rate of diarrhoea disease which is the second cause of high morbidity and mortality rates among children under the age of five. The persistent re-occurrence of annual incidences of cholera outbreaks in some of our states are also manifestations of inadequate toilet facilities. Yet this could also be prevented through safe excreta disposal by every individual.”

Abbas revealed that: “The Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to addressing the sanitation challenges in the country and ensuring proper management of excreta. This commitment is demonstrated by Mr. President’s declaration of a state of emergency on water, sanitation and hygiene in the country and the signing of Executive Order No. 009 on Open Defecation Free Nigeria by 2025. Equally, the Federal Ministry of Environment in collaboration with critical stakeholders has reviewed and validated the 2005 National Environmental Sanitation Policy including its policy guidelines on safe excreta and sewage disposal, which will soon be presented to the Federal Executive Council for approval.

“The Federal Ministry of Environment is also continuing with its community-based intervention on the control of open defecation programme as well as the Clean and Green Programme aimed among others at promoting the provision of safe and adequate toilets across the country, particularly in public places and ensuring proper excreta management.”

He disclosed that modern public toilets have been provided in communities and markets across the Federation under these programmes. “To strengthen the capacity of our Environmental Health Officers, this year, the Ministry renewed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), India on technology transfer, technical assistance, capacity building and research development in areas of water, sanitation and environmental management. The CSE has conducted specialized training on affordable toilet designs and feacal sludge management and reuse for at least fifty (50) Environmental Health Officers and Sanitation Desk Officers across the 36 States’ Ministry of Environment including FCT.”

Abbas while highlighting the activities to mark the day which is scheduled for next Tuesday, said. “I am using this opportunity to appeal to all National, State and Local Government stakeholders in environmental sanitation not only to do the talking but take practical steps and actions individually and collectively as agents of change to ensure everyone has access to toilets in their domain. Likewise, all commercial entities such as petrol stations, shopping malls etc are encouraged to launch functional toilet facilities for the public as part of their corporate social responsibilities.”

On his part, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev said: “The Government recognizes that access to adequate Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) services is a critical factor for the socio-economic development of any nation with implications for human capital outcomes such as early childhood survival, health and educational attainment.

“In addition, the practice of open defecation due to the dearth of sanitation facilities is directly correleated with sanitation-related diseases, poor educational outcomes and loss of productivity. This is beside such as other consequences such as the concomitant lack of dignity, inconvenience and violence experienced by women and girls, when practising open defecation.”

He said: “In recognition of the cross-cutting nature of the Government’s interventions, the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation is collaborating with other partners under the auspices of the National Task Group on Sanitation (NTGS) in commemorating the 2023 World Toilet Day. The commemoration activities are targeted at mobilizing actions at all levels through building synergy to improve sustainable access to sanitation in the country. It is our target to reach every Nigerian with a message on safe toilets and sanitation systems in the course of these engagements. The modest achievements recorded through our interventions were made possible through the collaboration of partners. I will be remise without acknowledging their partnership and support for our initiatives in the Sanitation and Hygiene Sector.”

A three-day judicial retreat of the ECOWAS Court of Justice on the theme Case Management before ECOWAS Court of Justice: Relationship between the Registry Department, the Chambers of the Honourable Judges and the Legal Research Departments, opened on 13th of November, 2023 in Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

In his welcome address, Hon Justice Edward Amoako Asante, President of the Court stressed the importance of the judicial retreat which is an annual activity of the Court, stating that it gives judges and key staff of the registry, legal research and support departments, an opportunity to “review the performance of the Court and proffer solutions to perceived gaps to ensure a more effective discharge of its mandate.”

He said that the retreat will focus on four issues specific to the Court namely: (i) special forms of proceedings, judgments of the Court and its execution; (ii) service of legal documents on the parties and their dispatch to the honourable judges; (iii) the role of the chief registrar, deputy registrar and other registrars in the case management process; and (iv) the role of the registry and legal research department in support of the judge rapporteur.

Justice Asante also proposed the integration of the communication unit in the case management system workflow to enhance its reportage of cases and court sessions in order to keep the citizens informed about the activities of the Court.

He equally applauded the recent recruitment of staff to strengthen the language services unit which in the past threatened the effective functioning of the Court that functions in three languages of the Community – English, French and Portuguese.

“Through your individual and collective contributions, you will help realise the hopes and aspirations of its estimated 300 million citizens for their socio-economic wellbeing through the integration of the economies of its 15 Member States,” he added.

He reiterated that the judicial retreat will be devoted to addressing the identified key challenges and proffer recommendations with timelines for its implementation, aimed at strengthening the case-law of the Court and position it as a pacesetter among regional courts.

On the objectives and expectations of the judicial retreat, the chief registrar, Dr Yaouza Ouro-Sama said that a periodic review of the Rules of Procedure of the Court is in accordance with Article 32 of the 2005 Supplementary Protocol on the Court.

He added that, “The output of this Judicial Retreat will have a far-reaching impact on the improved case management processes of the Court and the efficient collaboration between the chambers of the Honourable Judges, the Registry and the Legal Research Department”.

In the course of the retreat, the honourable judges will moderate different sessions during which some legal staff will make presentations on sub-themes under the key issues for discussion.

Participants attending the judicial retreat include the honourable judges, the chief registrar, directors, heads of units and divisions, legal officers and support staff of the Court.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested an alleged notorious drug dealer, 45-year-old Godwin Emuneyin, who is physically challenged and accused of using his wheelchair as cover to deal in illicit substances such as methamphetamine and cannabis in Afuze, headquarters of Owan East local government area of Edo state.

The spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi, in a statement on Sunday said the suspect was arrested last Tuesday at his base in Afuze following credible intelligence. He said as at the time of his arrest, a wooden box used to conceal illicit substances including 18 pinches of methamphetamine, one block and 71 wraps of cannabis, were recovered from him.

Babafemi said in other interdiction operations in Edo state, NDLEA operatives last Monday recovered 42 bags of cannabis weighing 480 kilogrammes from a camp in Aviosi forest in Owan West local government area while the Utese forest in Ovia North East local government area was also raided same day with 231.5 kilogrammes of the substance recovered and a cannabis farm measuring 0.778960 hectare destroyed.

In Adamawa state, operatives on patrol along Ngurore-Yola road last Thursday
intercepted a Toyota Corolla car marked TZG 97 KY loaded with 30,899 tramadol 225mg and 100mg pills concealed inside the body compartments of the car. The driver found in possession of the drug exhibits, Sani Samaila (a.k.a Isa Male),25, said he was bringing the consignment from Jalingo, Taraba State to deliver in Yola, Adamawa State.

He noted that the previous day, a suspect, Abdullahi Sani (a.k.a Danfulani) was arrested at Ngurore town in possession of some quantity of dried weeds suspected to be cannabis sativa in a white nylon. He thereafter led operatives on a follow up operation to the home of a drug lord, Alhaji Bubakari (a.k.a Dan Mamuda), an ex-convict, where 19 blocks of compressed cannabis that weighed 13 kilogrammes were recovered.

In Ogun state, not less than 18.875 tons of cannabis sativa on 7.55 hectares farmland were destroyed and another 100 jumbo bags weighing 1,100 kilograms of the psychoactive substance recovered at James town, Ogunmakin area of Obafemi Owode local government area last Monday, by a combined team of NDLEA operatives with officers and men of the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps, Defence Intelligence Agency and the State Security Network, Amotekun. He said Okpor Chukwuma and six other male suspects found on the farmland were arrested.

He said a commercial bus driver, Olayinka Sowo, 25, was arrested last Friday along Ibadan – Akure expressway over alleged conspiracy to transport 45.15 kilogrammes cannabis from Lagos to Osun state, adding that NDLEA officers in Abuja on same day intercepted 7, 980 pills of diazepam and 567 bottles of codeine syrup in a commercial bus along Abaji-Abuja highway after which a follow up operation at Zuba motor park led to the arrest of the owner of the consignment, Ugwu Ikenna, 30.

In Delta state, NDLEA operatives backed by men of the Nigerian Army stormed a remote forest in Umuchime community, Ndokwa West local government area where they destroyed 12.5 tons of cannabis on five hectares of farmland, and recovered 53.22 kilogrammes processed weeds and seeds of the substance. A suspect, Christopher Anim (alias Ogidi) was also arrested in the course of the operation. Two suspects: Amarachukwu Eugene, 32, and Abdulaziz Auwal, 25, were arrested in another operation by operatives in Kano with 202 blocks of cannabis weighing 113.1 kilogrammes last Tuesday.

In continuation of awareness on dangers of illicit drugs, NDLEA Commands across the country intensified their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, advocacy lectures. These include: Sensitisation lecture for students of Government Commercial Secondary School, Wudil, Kano state; WADA advocacy visit to Zamfara state governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal in Gusau; WADA sensitisation lecture for students of George Burton Memorial School, Ilesa, Osun state and similar lecture delivered at Kenneth Dike Secondary School, Awka, Anambra state, among others.

Meanwhile, while commending the officers and men of the Edo, Ogun, Osun, Adamawa, Delta, and FCT Commands of the agency for their balanced efforts in the past week, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) equally applauded their counterparts across the country for intensifying their WADA advocacy lectures thus creating parity between their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction activities.

The traditional ruler of Ubulu-Unor kingdom, in Aniocha South Local Government Area of Delta State, Obi Henry Kikachukwu, has said the exposure and educational background of some present day traditional rulers have added significant value to traditional institution.

Obi Kikachukwu, while interacting with a delegation of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, during a visit to him in his palace, noted that some of the present day traditional rulers were knowledgeable enough due to their exposure and education, which had helped to ease communication between them and their subjects.

The Ubulu-Unor Monarch, who recalled the situation during the colonial era when the then masters engaged the services of interpreters to be able to communicate with the traditional rulers and their subjects, said with exposure and education, there was now a better understanding of the policies and programmes of government because the traditional rulers could bring same to the knowledge of their subjects.

He explained that traditional rulers in Aniocha South had helped to develop a template for government to easily relate with rural dwellers,  adding that the present day kings were always on the move, rather than sit in their palaces, in search of ideas and reforms that would improve the well-being of their subjects.

The Royal Father, who would be one of the discussants of the theme of the DOPF’s forthcoming 4th Convention and Lecture Series, “Fiscal Policy and Taxation: Balancing Revenue Generation and Economic Growth”, commended the Forum for annually choosing critical national issues for discussion, with the aim of providing solutions, contributing to good governance and entrenching democratic culture.

Obi Kikachukwu said the contributions of professionals, knowledgeable individuals and groups, such as the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF), which he noted were based on research, could go a long way in addressing the myriad of challenges plaguing the country if only the government could reckon with them.

Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Abdallah Abu Shawesh, has asked Israel to stop promoting the narrative that it was in Gaza to free Palestine and the rest of the world from Hamas terrorism, insisting that at no time had Palestine asked to be freed from Hamas.

He equally said that at no time had Hamas had expedition in any country outside the Middle East as it’s activities has been targeted at Israel and aimed at liberating territories occupied by Israel.

The envoy, who spoke at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday said the Palestinians have never been under the captivity of the movement.

“We are not under the captivity of Hamas, it’s Israel’s excuse to justify their occupation.

“Is it that to free me, you will kill me? If that is a way to help the Palestinians, we can’t accept it.”

The envoy explained that Hamas, like other organisations in Palestine, were resisting the Israeli occupation, arguing that Hamas had never attacked any other country.

Shawesh said the Palestinians had never solicited Israel’s help to free them from Hamas, pointing out that Hamas was created 20 years after Israel’s occupation, noting that the present action of Israel in Gaza was part of the Masterplan to push the Palestinians out of Gaza.

He noted that it s now over a month since Israel declared its war against Hamas, but there have been relentless bombardments which have deprived the entire population of all their basic needs for survival.

“It’s a very dangerous stage, where we have become used to counting the numbers of the slaughtered people, home destructions, injuries, and so on and so forth, without any emotional feeling towards the victims.

“The death toll among the Palestinians in Gaza exceeded 10500, 4800 are children and 2550 are women, while the injured 24808. 2660 still missing under the rubble, and 1270 are children.

“According to the UN 70% of the Palestinian people became internally displaced persons. All these are not mere numbers, they are shattered dreams, hopes and aspirations,” he said.

The Upper Chamber of the National Assembly has expressed willingness to partner and support the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in the task of ridding Nigeria of drug menace.

The Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics while commending the leadership of NDLEA for its unrelenting war against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking, said it was prepared and committed to partner and support the agency to succeed in its onerous task of ridding Nigeria of the drug menace.

The assurance was given after the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) briefed the Committee on the activities, challenges and achievements of the agency in the last 34 months at the National Assembly complex, Abuja.

Marwa, during the briefing on Tuesday, said the global supply and demand of illicit drugs, including opioids and synthetic drugs has exacerbated the world drug problem, with devastating impact on people and their well-being across borders and continents.

He said: “Families, communities, young people and old men and women and indeed the very fabric of our society is daily being destroyed by drug abuse.” He added that the scourge is at the basis of the security challenges facing not only Nigeria but other nations and as such, no effort must be spared in addressing the problem.”

Speaking on some of its achievements in the areas of drug demand reduction and drug supply reduction, Marwa said: “The agency re-ignited its intelligence-based enforcement capabilities, focusing on drug barons and cartels, with a view to cutting off supplies and taking illicit drugs away from our streets. This is yielding positive results with the arrest of 36,096 drug traffickers, among them 40 barons, between January 2021 and September 2023. The agency has recorded seizures of 6,668 tons of drugs, worth over N635 billion. About 957.319 hectares of cannabis farms have been destroyed across 12 states within the period under review, while we successfully prosecuted and got convictions in 6,043 cases.

“Presently, there are 11,166 pending cases in Federal High Court across the country. And between January 2021 and September 2023, over 27,432 drug-dependent individuals have been counselled and discharged from our counselling and treatment facilities across the country.”

He highlighted some of the challenges facing the agency to include: inadequate funding, dearth of standard rehabilitation centres, lack of operational boats and vehicles, forensic laboratories and poor salary structure for personnel among others.

Marwa said the modest achievements recorded by the agency in the past months couldn’t have been possible without the backing of the Executive, the Judiciary and the Legislature. “We are hopeful that we will get even more impactful support from the 10th Senate. We look forward to your assistance in taking care of some Gordian knots that can only be solved by legislative means”, he added.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo said: “I want to assure you that the newly inaugurated members of the committee are fully committed to working with the NDLEA. All the members have assured that they would contribute and do their best in working to eradicate the use of illicit drugs and narcotics in Nigeria. We will consider the possibility of having an emergency summit on drugs because of the seriousness of the issue.”

Also speaking, Vice Chairman of the Committee, Senator Osita Ngwu said: “We are so glad that the NDLEA is working and we are seeing the results. Over 6000 tons of drugs confiscated is not a joke. I use this medium to encourage you, and whatever support you need from our end, we will give. We are all passionate about reducing drug demand, if we don’t deal with it now, it will destroy us.

“Whatever support we can give we will provide for you to continue this fight, so that we can take drugs off our streets and make our youth useful. We are all going to work together by all means to make sure that all we discussed here will be put in process.”

Other members of the committee who spoke toed the same line of commendation and assurance while they all agreed to fast track the amendment of the NDLEA Act earlier passed by the 9th Senate but returned to the 10th Senate because it lapsed.

All relevant institutional and statutory agencies have been asked to adequately respond to and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and food production in order to ensure food security in the country.

Speaking at the First Regional Workshop on Climate Smart Soil in Abuja organized by the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in collaboration with African Climate Action Partnership, the Chairman of House of Representatives Committee on Climate Change, Hon. Chris Nkwonta said soils are integral to the functions of all terrestrial ecosystems and to increased and sustainable food production.

He noted that: “Consequently, conscious efforts must be made by relevant institutional and statutory agencies to adequately respond to and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture and food production.”

The lawmaker said “climate change is currently disrupting agriculture and food production in every corner of the world, from droughts or floods that damage crops to rising seas and other environmental pollutions that threaten rural and agricultural communities.

“In the context of climate change, agriculture faces complex and unique problems. Crop production is directly dependent on natural resources, weather and climatic conditions. As a result of raising temperatures, variable rainfalls, environmental pollutions, invasive and alien species of pest and other unpredictable environmental factors have invariably exposed farmers and agricultural communities to several challenges that are inimical to increased food production and sustainable food security.

“The aforementioned environmental challenges adversely affecting farmers and food producers tend to worsen as climate change issues accelerates globally, making it most critical to implement mitigation strategies and appropriate responses as soon as possible to curb it’s long-term negative impacts on food production and food security.”

He asked that a blend of climate smart soil and agriculture must be emplaced to transform farming with the aim of delivering positive outcomes on the basis of adaptations and mitigations to support and improve food security under the new realities of global climate change.

Nkwonta said: “It is my believe that this workshop is a catalyst towards achieving improved food security in the country in line with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”

In a goodwill message, the Chairman, Security, Special Intervention and Climate Change, North East Development Commission (NEDC), Rep. Sam Onuigbo
said: “Today’s event organized by the National Council on Climate Change in collaboration with the African Climate Action Partnership, is extremely important because it recognizes the critical intersection between healthy soil, climate change, hunger, poverty, and the consequent diseases and insecurity that come from them. As we all know, without fertile soils, we cannot grow food, and without food, there will be hunger, loss of livelihood means for land-dependent people, displacement, forced migration, climate refugees, insecurity and conflict arising from competition for scare resources.”

He noted that: “The United Nations has recognized the critical link between Climate Change and food security. The UN Resolution 68/212 of December 20, 2013, reaffirmed that “Climate Change is one of the greatest challenges of our time…, particularly developing countries are vulnerable to the adverse impacts… including persistent drought and extreme weather events, sea-level rise, coastal erosion and ocean acidification, further threatening food security and efforts to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development and in this regard emphasizes that adaptation to climate change represents an immediate and urgent global priority.”

He noted that: “With an area of 923,769 square kilometers and an ever-increasing population of about 223million people, 70 percent of which depend on agriculture as a means of livelihood, the recurrent issues of losing arable land to desertification, erosion, drought, and unsustainable agriculture, forestry, and other land use (AFOLU) has opened up the country to the danger of food insecurity. As changes in temperature, precipitation, and extreme weather events continue to challenge our agricultural sector, sustainable soil management practices and initiatives aimed at increasing soil organic carbon sequestration hold the promise of addressing food security, mitigation, and adaptation challenges.”

He said “mechanization is absolutely essential, good quality seeds, fertilization, improved agricultural practices, smart agriculture, these are the solutions we seek because the whole mantra is on increase in yield.”

Onuigbo further said: “The degradation of our soils, especially in Africa, is a pressing concern that impacts not only our food security but also our ability to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to a changing climate. According to the World Bank, the consequences of soil degradation have far-reaching effects, particularly for the agricultural sector which employs more than half of Africa’s workforce, and accounts for 30-40 percent of its GDP.

“Increasing the availability of arable land must start from climate-smart and sustainable soil practices which I am happy that this event is about. We can produce enough food to feed our nations, and the continent of Africa, attract foreign direct investment, earn foreign exchange and create employment. So, what we are doing here today, and what the potentialities are, provide an optimistic springboard for addressing some of the most germane challenges we face in the country.”

On his part, the Director General of the National Council on Climate Change, Dr. Salisu Dahiru said the workshop was organized with a deep sense of purpose and urgency, recognizing the pivotal role that soil plays in shaping the future of our nation and the world at large.

Dahiru, who was by the Deputy DG, Mrs. Halima Bawa Bwari said: “Soil health, food security, and climate change are inextricably linked, forming a triad that demands our immediate attention and concerted efforts. The state of our soils directly impacts our ability to feed a growing global population, adapt to a changing climate, and mitigate its effects. It is a complex challenge that requires the prioritization of Adaptation and Climate Smart Agriculture in line with Nigeria’s NDCs as well as a holistic approach, collaboration, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders involved.”

From SUNNY A. DAVID:

One person was suspected dead, vehicles numbering about 30 and several houses in Iyiowa Odoekpe Layout in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State were damaged by hoodlums believed to be youths of Odoekpe Community.

Mostly targeted were the vehicles and houses of the immediate past and present leaders of Iyiowa Landlord Association.

The victims who took newsmen round the Estate where the monumental destruction took place estimated the cost of destruction to be about N100million.

Speaking to newsmen the newly elected chairman of the Iyiowa Layout Landlords Association, Mr Sunday Obinze, said the hoodlums from Odoekpe Community invaded their houses at about 8 am on Tuesday morning armed with Pump Action rifles, destroyed and burnt his Lexus. 330 Jeep and damaged the louvres in his four-storey building.

In some other places about four vehicles each were destroyed in the compounds visited.

They were to have broken into shops and carted away drinks, beverages and cash running into several millions of naira.

A men who was washing his car had his two eyes damaged and beaten to stupor, while his provision store was emptied by the hoodlums who were said to have locked the gate of the estate to prevent people from entering and exiting the Layout.

The Chairman of Ogbaru Local Government Area, Hon. Pascal Aniegbuna who was inspected the destruction condemned the act, pleading that people should not take laws into their hands, stating that efforts would be made to resolve the matter.

The Divisional Police Officer who confirmed the incident said he would not talk on the matter.

But the LandLord Association leadership accused the Odoekpe traditional institution, key members of the Community and former Chairman of the association who allegedly was bent in imposing his son as his successor of being behind the mayhem.

The ECOWAS Court of Justice has adjourned the hearing in the case between the State of Niger, six Nigerien organisations, and a Nigerien national, and the Conference of Heads of State and Government, the Mediation and Security Council and the ECOWAS Commission.

The applicants asked the Court to note the illegality tainting the measures taken by the Conference of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS during its extraordinary sessions of July 30 and August 10, 2023, aimed at restoring constitutional order in the Republic of Niger. They urged the Court to annul all decisions, including the decision to resort to armed intervention against the Republic of Niger.

An additional application seeking the directive of the Court on interim measures was filed in support of the main application. The applicants requested, on a provisional basis, the suspension of all binding political and economic sanctions as well as the decision to activate and deploy the ECOWAS Standby Force against Niger.

During the hearing, the respondent informed the Court that he had sent a letter to the Court registry requesting an extension of time to file his pleadings. The adjournment will allow the respondent’s lawyer to file its response.

On their part, the applicants refuted the existence of such correspondence, explaining that in the interim, they had written to the Court to inquire about the existence of the respondents’ submissions, and that they had not received a response.

The Court noted that on October 9, 2023, the respondents’ lawyer sent a correspondence marked Exhibit No. 3 in which he requested an extension of time. It granted the request and adjourned the case to November 21, 2023 for hearing on both the interim measures and the substance of the case.

The panel of three (3) judges on the bench is composed of:
Hon. Judge Edward Amoako Asante, President
Hon. Judge Gbéri-bè Ouattara, Judge Rapporteur/Member
Hon. Judge Sengu M. Koroma, Member

• Cautions trouble makers to stay clear

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army/Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force, South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, Major General Jamal Abdussalam has charged troops to ensure they create an enabling environment for the smooth conduct of a peaceful election in Bayelsa State.
According to Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations Major Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, he gave the charge, while addressing troops and members of other security agencies for the conduct of Exercise SAFE CONDUCT 2023 in Bayelsa State today, Monday, November 2023.
While addressing the troops, Major General Abdussalam charged them to ensure the good people of Bayelsa State come out in their numbers to vote for candidates of their choice without any fear of intimidation. This he said is one of the ways the Nigerian Army (NA) will support democracy to thrive in Nigeria. “We must ensure that everywhere is safe and people are able to see sufficiently that we are fully on the ground to boost public confidence in the electoral process,” he said.
He further maintained that troops have been adequately briefed on the subsisting Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement for the Elections, adding that they must conduct themselves in the most professional manner before, during and after the election.
Major General Abdussalam warned that no form of complacency would be tolerated at all levels, calling on all the participating troops to ensure they do the needful as duty calls. He also used the medium to call on would be trouble makers to desist as troops are determined to close up on them during the election.

The GOC maintained that no stone would be left unturned to deal decisively with any individual or group, whose stock in trade is to cause mayhem or snatch ballot boxes during the elections. “If the trouble makers feel they have 2 heads, they must be ready with the second head because the first head would surely be taken off,” he re-echoed. The era of snatching ballot boxes, stuffing them, and indeed any form of electoral violence are gone. Adequate arrangements have been put in place to deal decisively with such threats, reassuring that in the days ahead, trouble makers would be positively identified, isolated, and dealt with.
Major General Abdussalam also said that flash points have been identified, and anything that will deny the electorates to exercise their franchise freely will be met with proportionate force. He called on those thinking a long that line to bury their thoughts, as security forces will go all out to ensure the election is conducted in a peaceful manner.
The GOC was particularly pleased with the level of synergy existing between the NA and sister Services, which he said culminated into a joint route march, climaxing with a joint show of force in Yenagoa and environs today. This, he further said, essentially sends a clear message to those who are bent on causing trouble before, during, and after the poll to have a rethink. He assured the good people of Bayelsa State that adequate security has been put in place to ensure a peaceful poll.

France on Friday said it would be returning $150 million General Sani Abacha loot back to Nigeria.

Abacha reign over Nigeria between 1993 and 1998 when his rule was terminated as a result of untimely death.

Twenty years after his reign, loot stacked abroad continued to surface with Nigerian government already recovered hundred of millions of dollars.

The visiting France Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Ms. Catherine Colonna while addressing a press conference, said she has informed President Bola Tinubu about the planned return of the seized fund.

She noted that the stolen fund will be returned to the country in form of grant, while revealing that discussion will soon be opened with the Nigerian government on the areas to invest the fund.

She said: “I also informed President Tinubu that in response to the request submitted by the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Justice, and in agreement with the US
Administration, France will return to Nigeria the assets stolen from the Nigerian
people by General Sani Abacha and his family, that have been frozen in France
since 2021. We will start discussions with the Nigerian administration in order to allocate these 150 million US dollars to development projects benefiting the
population, according to the priorities of the Nigerian government.”

She said France has invested over €10 billion in Nigeria in the last ten years while over 100 French Companies doing business in the country, creating over 10,000 jobs.

She said: “Over the last ten years and now exceed 10 billion euros. More than 100 French companies are already working here. They do not simply sell French products: they invest in Nigeria’s economy, creating jobs (10 000 jobs as we speak), factories, farms and vocational training centers. Our goal for the coming years is to further increase these investments in Nigeria, but also the investments of Nigerian companies in France.

“The French Government also invests directly in Nigeria, through financing from
the French Development Agency (AFD, Agence française de développement).

“Since 2010, we have mobilized close to 3 billion euros to support the emergence of Nigeria. AFD is carrying out projects in 26 out of the 36 States of Nigeria. We are financing infrastructure, rural roads, marketplaces, urban transportation and water supply, but also a large number of SMEs and local start-up incubators. We are also investing more and more in vocational training for the youth.

“Our main priority for the coming years is to support even further cultural and creative industries in Nigeria.

“They are already recognized worldwide, and have a huge potential to be developed. We support creators and entrepreneurs in the fields of animation, video games, music, fashion and design, to help them tap into international markets. l signed this morning with the Minister of Finance an investment agreement for an amount of 100 million euros, for the l- Dice program, through which AFD is going to support Nigerian entrepreneurs in digital and creative industries, We provide financing, expertise, but also exposure in France and in our outstanding Cultural network in Nigeria, including the French Institute in Abuja and 10 Alliances Francaises.”

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, in a notable show of commitment to Nigeria’s democratic stability, recently inaugurated a series of vital projects within the 6 Division, Nigerian Army.

This action took place during his inaugural operational visit to the Division’s Area of Responsibility, where he emphasized the enduring strength of democracy in the nation.

Acting Deputy Director of 6 Division Army Public Relations, Major Danjuma Jonah Danjuma, reported that General Musa reasserted the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy in the face of various challenges confronting the nation.

The CDS unequivocally assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) would play a crucial role in safeguarding and preserving the democratic principles that the nation held dear.

General Musa further reaffirmed this commitment in a brief interaction with the press, where he stressed that the AFN would persistently protect the country’s democratic values.

The General allayed any fears stemming from past coup attempts in neighboring countries, emphasizing that there was no cause for alarm in Nigeria.

In an expression of gratitude, General Musa acknowledged the unwavering support of the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He disclosed that President Tinubu had approved the allocation of funds for the procurement of essential resources to combat illegal oil theft and other criminal activities.

The CDS took the opportunity to commend the officers and soldiers of 6 Division, Nigerian Army, for their remarkable efforts in maintaining security and combating illegalities in the Niger Delta region.

He also urged those involved in criminal activities to abandon their actions.

Among the projects commissioned by General Musa were the 46 Engineer Brigade Counter Improvised Explosive Device Squadron office complex, a range of vehicles, motorbikes, and equipment, newly constructed Corporal and Below quarters for the 26 Support Engineer Regiment, the 29 Battalion Magazine, as well as a tree planting initiative and the unveiling of a street named after General CG Musa.

Earlier in the day, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander of the Joint Task Force, South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, briefed the CDS on the operational activities within the Division at its headquarters.

An interactive session also took place between General Musa and the Division’s officers.

The high point of the visit included the signing of the visitor’s register, the presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph, symbolizing the unity and commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.