Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has distributed food palliative to 12,200 vulnerable households living in Muna, Custom and Ngwom communities.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Isa Gusau, at least 73,200 persons will benefit as each of the 12,200 households is made up of six persons.

Gusau said the palliative distribution was to ease the hardship from the removal of the fuel subsidy.

He disclosed that the 12,200 beneficiaries comprised of 7,000 male- heads of households and 5,200 female-heads of households.

He said each of the male-heads received a bag of rice and one bag of sorghum grain while the females received a carton of pasta and one wrapper each.

Speaking to newsmen after the distribution, Governor Zulum expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for approving a grant to all the states of the federation.

Zulum noted that the president approved N5b for states with each state receiving N1b worth of maize grain and N4b cash to buy rice for distribution to citizens.

He said: “We want to express our gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the magnanimous gesture to the States”, adding that: “Like I said in Abuja, the president has approved the release of N5b for states for the procurement of food items to be distributed to citizens. The FG is magnanimous enough to approve 52% of the money as grants to states, while 48% amounting to N1.9 billion is to be refunded over time.”

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun has said that for Nigeria to achieve the targeted poverty eradication, there must be conscious and systemic investment in education, food, housing, security and others.

The advice came at a time that President Bola Tinubu inaugurated members of his cabinet that are expected to assist him actualise his renewed hope campaign manifesto.

Jianchun, who spoke in Abuja on Monday at the unveiling of the Hausa edition of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s book, ‘Up and Out of Poverty’ said there are many lessons from the book for Nigeria as both countries share so many similarities. 

The envoy, while noting that the book was written in 1988 and contain the thoughts of the current president on how to eradicate poverty, revealed that it was the  book that the president used in eradicating extreme poverty between 2012 -2022. 

He stressed that poverty revolves around two basic needs and three guarantees.

“For the basic needs, we have first, food and secondly, clothing. For the three guarantees, we have compulsory education, basic medical care, and safe housing,” he said.

He advised that: “Nigeria needs to fix the educational sector. The country has a lot of dropouts and we all know that without education, a country cannot move forward.

“Nigeria needs to fix the medical challenges it is facing to eradicate poverty.

“The measures that China took were to boost the economy. The economy is a decisive factor to eliminate poverty. Nigeria needs to rely on its strength, natural resources and create more jobs for its citizens.”

Also speaking at the unveiling of the book, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume said the book launch was apt, given the country’s mass poverty, where 80 million live below the poverty line especially in the Northern part of the country.  

Akume, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office, SGF, Aliyu Shinkafi, was therefore of the opinion that the Hausa version of the book will help Nigerians benefit from the growth and development of China.

He said: “This launch is timely and shows what both countries share in common.

“The book is translated in one of the three major languages so that our population can benefit from China. It is not by chance that the book was put together in Hausa because Nigeria has a population of 200 million about 80 million live below the poverty line especially in the North West and North East.”

The visiting Chinese Minister of Culture and Tourism, Hu Helping noted that: “The world is encountering a lot of challenges especially food insecurity and poverty, adding that: “Today, the launch of this book will help Nigerians understand and learn how China went up and out of poverty.”

He said the understanding would go a long way in providing a stronger bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and China

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has promised to unveil the administration’s foreign policy vision in few days time.

The Minister gave this promised on Monday shortly after resuming work at the Ministry after he was swore in at the inauguration ceremony for ministers held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja

Tuggar, a former Nigeria’s Speaking at a reception at the over 200 sitting capacity Rotunda Hall which had sited his friends, supporters and staff of the Ministry were on hand to receive the minister, said it is the highest honour to have been asked to serve the country by President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking at the short reception which also had in attendance the Emir of Bichi, Nasir Ado Bayero, the minister

He also called for the support of the staff in  the efforts to place Nigeria in its true position at the international front, stating that  it is the responsibility of the staff to uphold the standard of the Ministry. 

Tuggar added that the time is challenging, given the current situation, but noted that
“it is the highest honour to be asked to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs by President Bola Tinubu.”

He said: “The Ministry for Foreign Affairs is at the forefront of promoting Nigeria’s interest and protecting our citizens abroad.

“As a historically important ministry, foreign affairs has long represented the high standard of excellence. It is therefore our job to make sure that those standards never fail. Each and every one of us has a key role to play. 

“These are turbulent times. From the unfolding political crisis in Niger Republic to the regional insecurity and economic uncertainty, we have a lot of work to do.

“In the coming days, I will be meeting with many of you to better understand the needs of the ministry and develop plans to tackle these challenges.”

He promised that: “In due time, we will also be unveiling a new vision for Nigeria’s foreign policy. The four D  diplomacy which is centred on development, democracy, demography and diaspora.

“We hope to find modern solutions in order to address complex modern problems. I will count on your support and partnership. I believe with your support, we can place Nigeria where she belongs at the pinnacle of regional and global decision making.”

The Permanent Secretary, Amb. Adamu Lamuwa said the Ministry has been praying for a minister who will hit the ground running.

He also said the staff have a lot of hope that the minister will lead the ministry to the next level because he has the capacity.

Minister of State for Environment, Dr. Ishaq Salako has told Nigerians to expect environmental sustainability, noting that the present administration is interested in preserving the environment for present and future generations of Nigerians.

Salako gave the promise on Monday, shortly after he assumed duty as the Minister of State for the Environment on in Abuja, following the inauguration of 45 Ministers by President Bola Tinubu.

The Minister of State ,who said that environment was key in human nature and existence, emphasised on the need to ensure environmental sustainability.

He said: “Our responsibility is to ensure that we use the environment sustainably,” while noting that environmental sustainability is the deliberate act of preserving the environment for present and future generations.

He promised to work with the staff of the Environment Ministry, all stakeholders and the media as a team to ensure that the environment is a social responsibility for all.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ibrahim Yusufu told the Minister of State: “We will work assiduously with you so that the dividends of democracy promised Nigerian by this administration will be realised particularly as it concerns the environment.”

It was a gathering of nobles as Ten Man Committee and the entire Uzere People held a Grand Reception to host their illustrious Son & Father Bashorun Askia Ogieh (Immediate Past MD/CEO DESOPADEC) at the Bashorun Askia Civic Centre, Uzere.

The ceremony was organized to appreciate Bashorun Askia Ogieh for all he has done for Uzere Community, Isoko Nation and Delta at large.

The well attended ceremony was Chaired by The Very Rev. Fr. C. Ekabo(JP).
With Apostle M.T.O Oki Spiritual Father of the Day.

The event gathered Prominent Royal Fathers from across Isoko including, The Ovie of Uzere, the Ovie of Emede, the Odiologbo of Oyede, Odiologbo of Igbide.

The highlight of the event was the unwavering joy in the faces of supporters, interest groups and political associations, Captains of Industries both Private and Public sectors.

Responding, Bashorun Askia, thanked the people for the gesture saying he is happy to have been an instrument in the hand of God to contribute his quota to the development of Delta State.

Multi-billion naira worth of illicit drugs have been seized at a warehouse tucked in the midst of popular International Trade Fair Complex, Alaba, Ojo area of Lagos by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The spokesman of the anti-narcotics agency, Femi Babafemi in a statement on Sunday revealed that the seizure was made on Saturday.

He said recovered from the warehouse owned by a wanted billionaire drug baron, include: 1.4 million pills of tramadol 225mg weighing 826 kilogrammes; 3.2 million pills of codeine with gross weight of 3,360 kilogrammes; and 2,841 cartons of codeine syrup containing 284,100 bottles with 28,410 litres of the psychoactive substance, with a combined street value of over N4.8 billion.

He added that during the operation that lasted hours, a suspect, Paulinus Ojukwu, who is Chief Security Officer to the wanted drug baron that parades as automobile spare parts dealer, was arrested and now assisting ongoing investigation.

He noted that the latest drug warehouse bust is coming on the heels of the arrest of a drug baroness, Faith Nwankwo who was nabbed on 9th August with 2,750,000 pills of tramaking, a brand of tramadol 225mg and 250mg recovered from her residence at House 6, C close, 3rd Avenue, Festac area of Lagos and a warehouse located at Plot 3432 Sola Akinsola Street, Divine Estate, Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.

He also revealed that NDLEA operatives last Friday intercepted $20 million suspected to be counterfeit during a stop and search operation along Abaji – Lokoja road, within the Federal Capital Territory.

He said the suspected fake money was recovered from a bus coming from Lagos to Abuja, while the 53-year-old driver of the vehicle, Onyebuchi Nlededin was arrested. The previous day, last Thursday, Jude Ndubuisi, 52, was arrested with 2.2 kilogrammes of methamphetamine during a raid operation at Kabusa village, FCT.

He noted that the suspect was initially arrested with 20.75 kilogrammes cannabis on 7th July 2022 and was on court bail following his ongoing prosecution when he was nabbed for yet another drug crime.

He said another raid of two notorious drug joints within the FCT: Dei Dei and Tora-Bora Hills led to the recovery of 82.8 kilogrammes skunk, 1.8 kilogrammes rohypnol and 1.2 kilogrammes diazepam last Wednesday.

In Osun, NDLEA operatives in the early hours of Saturday destroyed clusters of cannabis farms measuring about 3.49 hectares (over 7.5 tons) at Mopatedo in Ifedayo local government area of the State. Two suspects: Sunday Otogbo, 40, and Peter Makra, 35, were arrested inside the cannabis farms. Additional 30 kilogrammes cannabis weeds and 16.9 kilogrammes of cannabis seeds were also recovered from the farms.

He disclosed that at least, three suspects: Ndubuisi Okorie, 44; Ebilima Emmanuel, 38, and Okechukwu Smart, 40, were arrested in connection with the seizure of 168 kilogrammes cannabis consignment from them when their vehicle was intercepted along Owerri-Onitsha expressway, Imo state on Saturday 19th August. Another shipment of controlled drugs containing 6,000 capsules of tramadol, 1,200 tablets of swinol, 155 bottles of codeine syrup and 20 tabs of Molly was equally seized on the same road on Sunday 13th August while a follow-up operation in Oyigbo area of Port Harcourt, Rivers state led to the arrest of the owner of the consignment, Remigius Ogechukwu, 33.

He said while a teenager, Boniface Odinakachukwu, 19, was apprehended with 99.4 kilogrammes skunk at Isikwe Road, Achi in Oji-River local government area, Enugu state last, a wanted teenage bandit, Aliyu Mohammed Altine, 19, was arrested by NDLEA operatives along Illela- Sokoto road with some wraps of skunk last Thursday, with the suspect who is on the wanted list of the police since been transferred to the police in Sokoto state for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) while expressing his satisfaction with the professional conduct of the officers and men involved in the Lagos, FCT, Sokoto, Osun, Imo and Enugu operations as well as the results of the raids, charged operatives of the Lagos command to ensure that the fleeing baron is smoked out from his hiding to face charges.

He also urged them and their colleagues across the country to intensify the heat on drug cartels.

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has approved the release of N10 million as relief package to soldiers wounded during battles in Borno.

The relief package was a fulfillment of pledge by the governor two months ago at a Sallah launch organised by the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Lagbaja.

Borno State Commissioner of Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar assisted by the Permanent Secretary, Government House, Barrister Mustapha Ali Busuguma delivered the Governor’s gift to the GOC 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Peter Malla at the 7 Division headquarters in Maiduguri on Saturday.

Tar said: “We are here to fulfil the pledge made by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum. You may recall that the Governor was here on a Sallah day for an event, during which he expressed the commitment of the Borno State Government to the welfare of our troops and pledged a donation of N10 million to wounded soldiers. This morning he dispatch us to come and deliver the gift.”

The governor also expressed commitment to continuous support in complementing the Federal Government in providing logistics support and improving troops’ welfare. He commended the military for the protection of the territorial integrity of Nigeria and for maintaining peace in Borno.

Receiving the donation, the GOC 7 Division, Major General Peter Malla expressed appreciation to Governor Zulum for the gesture.

“Let me on behalf of Theatre Commander welcome you to 7 Division and want also express our appreciation to His Excellency for always supporting the military.”

The GOC gave the assurance of sustaining the relative peace enjoyed in Borno by eliminating remnants of insurgents who insist on fighting.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has applauded humanitarian workers in the country especially its staff who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving others.

NEMA, in a statement by its Director General, Mustapha Ahmed to commemorate the 2023 World Humanitarian Day, also acknowledged those who have suffered injury, trauma, and tragic experiences while actively engaged in their roles.

According to the agency, it has documented instances of staff losing their lives and being kidnapped, underscoring the challenges faced by those who dedicate themselves to providing assistance in times of crisis.

The statement expressed his solidarity with the staff, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Local Emergency Management Committees, LEMCs, and other humanitarian partners.

Ahmed, in the statement recognized their role in collectively improving the wellbeing of communities and humanity at large.
Ahmed further reinforced the importance of unwavering commitment to delivering life-saving assistance, echoing the sentiment of #NoMatterWhat.

He said: “As part of the World Humanitarian Day, we must take a pause to remember and celebrate NEMA humanitarian actors that have lost their lives and those that have suffered injury and trauma in the line of duty. It is on record that some NEMA staff have lost their lives and some kidnapped while many others have suffered tragic experiences while on active duty.”

He added that: “On this auspicious day, I want to express my solidarity with the staff of NEMA, State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), Local Emergency Management Committees (LEMCs), the Nigeria Red Cross, the International Red Cross and the Red Crescent, the numerous NEMA partners, the UN system and community volunteers working in various hotspots in Nigeria and across the world.

“There is no doubt that your commitment to giving succor to persons in distress has enabled us to collectively make our communities and the world a better place for us and the future generation of humanity to live in dignity, peace and prosperity.

“Despite all the difficulties and dangers faced as humanitarian workers, we must not give up on our commitment to deliver life-saving assistance to people in need, #NoMatterWhat.”

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has appealed to Nigeria Customs Service to collaborate with his government to build business with neighbouring countries of Niger, Chad and Cameroon, with whom the state shares borders with.

The governor made the appeal while paying a visit on the Acting Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi at the Service’s headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

During the meeting, Zulum sought increased collaboration between Borno State Government and the Nigerian Customs Service to foster economic growth through enhanced trans-border trade with neighbouring countries of Cameroon, Chad and Niger Republics.

Zulum emphasised that a seamless trade and economic environment would not only benefit Borno State but also contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity.

He said: “As peace is gradually returning to Borno State, I want to express my readiness to work with Nigeria Customs Service to enhance the transportation of goods between Nigerian borders with Cameroon, Chad and Niger, which will in turn enhance the economy of not only the immediate communities but the entire Nigeria.”

The governor while congratulating the Ag. Comptroller-General, expressed gratitude to the leadership of Nigeria Customs Service for their support to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who are largely citizens of Borno State affected by the over a decade old insurgency.

He said: “Let me, first and foremost, congratulate you on your appointment as the Ag Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs Service; this vital organisation in the country. I want to also commend Nigeria Customs Service for uplifting the standards of living of the displaced communities in Borno and other parts of the Northeastern region.”

Responding, the CG gave assurance to the governor on his commitment to developing new measures to assist in re-establishing the full structure of cross-border trade in Borno.

He emphasised that the measure will boost the region’s economy and provide jobs for the people in Borno State.

The CG also sought an enhanced relationship with the host communities.

He said: “Moving forward, we will need your support to engage with members of the border communities in Borno, especially as the insurgency has been degraded. We will build on the good relationship that we have and leverage on it to re-establish a good relationship with Cameroon and, of course, the Southern part of Chad.”

During the visit, Zulum was accompanied by Borno State Commissioner of Budget and Planning, Dr. Babagana Mustapha.

As Nigeria joins the rest of the global community to commemorate the 2023 World Humanitarian Day (WHD), the Executive Secretary of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chief Tony Ojukwu has called on well-meaning Nigerians to join the humanitarian train by lending a helping hands to persons who are confronted with different forms of humanitarian crisis ranging from medical to shelter, hunger and malnutrition to lack of basic services.

Ojukwu stated this on the eve of the commemoration of WHD in Abuja. He called on Nigerians to reflect on the global challenges that communities around the world face, admonishing that it is imperative for us to unite in our efforts to address the critical humanitarian issues confronting us as a nation.

He noted that the recent removal of fuel subsidy has created untold hardship to majority of Nigerian especially the low-income earners, making them deserving of humanitarian assistance as they are no longer able to provide for some basic needs of life.

He said there is an urgent need to address the adverse consequences of the subsidy removal on Nigerians, adding that it has resulted in job losses, depression, violent reactions and increased poverty.

The Executive Secretary said: “As we commemorate this day, we acknowledge the critical role that each member of society plays in creating a better world. Just as a village relies on the cooperation and support of its people to thrive, so too must our global community unite to address the pressing humanitarian challenges facing us.”

The Human Rights Boss emphasized that the well-being of every individual is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the entire human family. Injury to one is injury to all and as Mother Teresa said, “if you cannot feed one hundred people, then feed just one”

The Executive Secretary further said that the Commission’s shared commitment to human rights demands that Nigerians stand in solidarity with those who are vulnerable, marginalized, and in need. “Together, we can build a stronger and more compassionate world, where every person’s rights are upheld, regardless of their background or circumstances”.

He used the opportunity of this year’s commemoration to call on governments, civil society organizations, and individuals to work collaboratively in addressing issues such as poverty, conflict, displacement, and environmental degradation confronting the less privileged Nigerians.

He said fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and active engagement to address humanitarian crisis can ensure that the principles of human rights remain at the forefront of our actions.

He added that providing humanitarian services can help create a world where justice reigns, respect for human dignity is upheld, the weak and vulnerable are strengthened, people are happy and conflicts will ultimately be reduced.

On this World Humanitarian Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to the values that bind us together as a nation, recognizing that it is our collective responsibility to create a just and inclusive society where every individual’s rights are respected and upheld.

He paid tributes to humanitarian heroes who lost their lives in providing selfless services to humanity all over the world. He said of special importance is the Office of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees UNHCR, which has been collaborating with the Commission to address the humanitarian needs of Nigerians in several parts of the country. The United Nations has set aside every 19th of August every year as WHD.

Over 3.5 million people are internally displaced in the country as a result of crises, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) data has revealed.

Also the insurgency in the Northeast, mostly affecting Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states have led to the lost of 37 aid workers since 2016 with additional 24 wounded and 34 kidnapped, according to the Aid Worker Security Database.

Speaking at the commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day, which was marked in Abuja by a road walk by stakeholders in the Humanitarian sector, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Nasir Sani Gwarzo noted that the essence of this year’s theme, #NoMatterWhat, encapsulates the profound essence of humanitarian action, being the core principle that drives humanitarians is their steadfast commitment to extending life-saving assistance, irrespective of an individual’s identity or geographical location.

He said: “Humanitarian workers stand as beacons of hope, traversing perilous paths to ensure aid reaches its intended recipients, regardless of the challenges they encounter. In recognizing that crises recognize no boundaries, humanitarians, too, acknowledge no barriers in their mission to assist those in dire need—No Matter What.”

Gwarzo said: “It is paramount to acknowledge that frontline humanitarian workers are integral to the well-being of our nation. Their selfless endeavours amidst conflict zones and areas afflicted by natural disasters epitomize service to Nigeria. Their altruism not only ameliorates the conditions of those they assist but also contributes to the stability and prosperity of our nation. Regrettably, since 2016, the Aid Workers Security Database has recorded the tragic loss of 37 aid workers, with 24 wounded and 34 kidnapped in the North East of Nigeria. The current year has already witnessed the kidnapping of five aid workers in the North East, alongside similar incidents from various corners of our nation.
 
He said: “As we gather here today to mark World Humanitarian Day, it is vital to acknowledge that countless individuals are grappling with humanitarian crises across Nigeria. These crises stem from diverse causes, ranging from insurgency and banditry to clashes between farmers and herders, compounded by the impacts of climate change. According to the UNHCR Operating Data, a staggering 3,578,966 internally displaced persons were recorded as of June 2023 in the North East, North West, and North Central regions of Nigeria. Families, venerable and resilient, find themselves navigating dire circumstances, often contending with acute needs such as sustenance, shelter, water, protection, and livelihoods.
 
“In the face of these challenges, both the Government of Nigeria and the entire humanitarian community have redoubled their efforts to provide meaningful responses. These endeavours are a testament to the resolute commitment of aid workers who persistently deliver assistance under the most challenging circumstances, embodying the essence of this year’s World Humanitarian Day theme.”

On his part, the United Nations (UN) Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Mr. Matthias Schmale, said this year’s World Humanitarian Day honours all aid workers who step up each day to provide life-saving assistance to millions of people in north-east Nigeria and other parts of the country, noting that “despite daunting challenges, humanitarians work tirelessly to deliver assistance to those in need no matter who, no matter where, no matter what.”

He said: “On a number of occasions I have seen for myself how hard humanitarians in north-east Nigeria are working in extremely difficult circumstances, often risking their lives and safety to support people in need.”

He added that: “Since 2016, 37 aid workers have been killed in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe (BAY) states, according to the Aid Worker Security Database. Additionally, 24 have been wounded and 34 kidnapped, commending: “The courage, dedication and perseverance of national and international aid workers on the front line who deliver no matter what is deeply impressive.”

He revealed that the UN and its partners aim to assist six million people in north-east Nigeria through the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP), while stating that additional funding is urgently needed, even as he lamented that the plan appealed for USD$1.3 billion but is currently only 29 per cent funded.

Schmale lamented that the deteriorating food security and nutrition situation is one of the most alarming aspects of the crisis in the north-east, decrying that an estimated 4.3 million people are food insecure in the BAY states, according to the March 2023 Cadre Harmonisé assessment.

He noted that some two million children under five are likely to face acute malnutrition this year, adding that: “To urgently operationalize time-sensitive and critical activities, the United Nations and partners launched a $396 million Lean Season Multi-Sector Plan as part of the HRP. While partners have made significant progress, including reaching approximately 2.1 million people with food assistance, they are challenged by limited funding, as this prioritised plan is only 51 per cent funded.”

He however noted that despite facing tremendous difficulties, aid workers persist each day, standing shoulder to shoulder with affected communities. He said: “On this day, and every day, I salute the commitment and perseverance of humanitarian workers.”

He promised that: “No matter what, the humanitarian community will continue to work together in support of government and other key actors to save, protect, and improve lives.”

The Federal Government has commiserated with the Government and people of the United States of America over the devastating wildfires that ravaged the State of Hawaii’s Maui County.

A signed statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Francisca Omayuli read: “The Federal Government of Nigeria commiserates with the Government and people of the United States of America over the devastating wildfires that ravaged the State of Hawaii’s Maui County in early August, 2023, resulting in over a hundred deaths and displacing thousands of people.”

The statement added that: “Nigeria is deeply touched by this unfortunate development and stands with the United States of America and affected families in these trying times.”

The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mustapha Ahmed said the agency did not receive any $1 million donation from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), for the support of flood victims in 2022.

The NEMA boss stated this when journalists asked to know about the funds promised and widely celebrated in 2022.

The then US Embassy, in a statement by the US. Ambassador in October 2022, Mary Beth Leonard had announced the donation.

The US had explained that the unusual heavy rainfall, which resulted in flooding, had affected nearly 2.8 million people across the country, leaving many homes damaged or completely destroyed, displacing millions of persons.

The US government had stressed that the $1 million in new USAID support would allow local partners on the ground to provide emergency shelter assistance, relief commodities, and hygiene kits to promote safe and healthy practices amid the on-going cholera outbreak and multipurpose cash assistance for people affected by the devastating floods.

Part of the statement had stated that: “The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is providing $1 million in immediate humanitarian assistance to support the people affected by unprecedented flooding in Nigeria.”

However, after over 10 months from then, NEMA, the lead agency in humanitarian response, is yet to get the donation.

According to the DG NEMA: “I also read about the story in the papers last year but I can confirm that we have not received any $1million from USAID.”

Meanwhile, the director-general of NEMA Ahmed has assured Zamfara State of the readiness of the agency to assist in addressing the humanitarian problems caused by bandits and terrorists attacks.

He stated this when the governor of Zamfara, Dr Dauda Lawal visited him at the headquarters of NEMA on Friday.

He said: “First I commend the governor to appreciate NEMA for the interventions and I assure you that Zamfara will get all the assistant they need just like other states of the federation.”

Earlier, the Zamfara state governor had said he was at the NEMA headquarters to seek assistance with the Internally Displaced Persons resulting from several bandit attacks in the state.

The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) bloc in Nigeria on Thursday said the action taken so far by both the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on the political impasse brought about by the military coup d’etat in Niger Republic are in order.

The SADC in Nigeria made up of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, DR Congo, South Africa, Angola, Tanzania and Namibia threw its weight behind the actions taken so far by the continental body and the West African subregional bloc to force the military junta led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani to hand over power back to President Mohamed Bazoum.

Speaking with journalists at Hope of Survival Ophanage Home, Abuja where the SADC donated food items to orphans as part of activities to mark the organisation’s anniversary, the High Commissioner of Namibia to Nigeria and the Dean of the SADC, H.E. Humphrey Geiseb, said the Southern Africa is part of the African Union and definitely concerned about the situations of coups as expressed by ECOWAS which is a regional body just like the Southern Africa Development Community, and equally by the African Union.

He said: “So, we are fully behind the statements and positions of ECOWAS and the African Union.”

Geiseb, while noting that Southern African region is mostly peaceful, as “we hold regular elections and democracy is very strong in our region,” said there is need for continuity of democracy everywhere on the continent.

Geiseb who led other envoys from SADC in Nigeria to the donation of the food items put at over N3 million, explained that the Southern Africa region is part of the African Union, stressing that whatever happens in other regions of the African continent indirectly affects SADC.

Speaking about the decision to visit the orphanage, he said the SADC wanted to provide succour to the orphans and also demonstrate the enduring friendship between the Southern African countries and the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He said: “We came to celebrate with the orphanage here by making official donations.

“This is our way of honoring the Southern Africa Development Community as well as the Federal Government of Nigeria which has supported strongly the liberation struggle of Southern Africa.

“Today, our sub-continent is free and independent. Many of our countries can recall that the Federal Republic of Nigeria has strongly supported us during the dark days of colonialism.”

While commending the SADC for the gesture, Mrs. Ruth Ibrahim, proprietress of the orphanage home, said the gifts would go a long way in helping her to feed the 75 children under the care of the home.

She, however, called for assistance in paying the school fees of the children in the orphanage home, stressing that it had been difficult for the management to cope with the high cost of education in the country.

Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Caroline Adepoju has called for sustained synergy among security agencies in dual areas of both border security and migration management to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

She equally said a management training of security agencies at top level cannot be downplayed especially now with challenges ranging from weapons smuggling, banditry and other vices that may undermine the nation’s security rearing their ugly heads.

Adepoju made the call on Wednesday when participants of the Advanced Security Management Course (ASMC) III of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) paid a courtesy visit to the NIS Headquarters.

A statement made available on Thursday by the Service Public Relations Officer, DCI Aridegbe Adedotun stated that Adepoju, who is a fellow of the Institute, said the visit of yhe the 27 participants not only ignited a sense of nostalgia but opened up her horizon to the big picture, hoping it has done the same for the participants.

She said: “the Nigeria Immigration is classified into two: border security and migration management. A secure border is a secure nation, the success of this Organisation (NIS) is a sine qua non to the success and progress of Nigeria and so the Service must be taken with all seriousness.

“And of course security is the collective responsibility of everyone especially every security agency that is why your participation in this Advanced Security Management Course (ASMC) III is apt.

“With the level of insecurity ongoing in Nigeria, smuggling of weapons, armed banditry, terrorism, farmers herders clashes, money laundering and sundry vices there cannot be a better time for people at management level to be exposed to serious training that you are undertaking.”

She charged the participants to justify the confidence reposed in them, advising them to allow the knowledge gained to cascade to subordinates and spread.

The Acting CG, speaking on the need for collaboration, said: “I want you to know that inter-agency synergy and collaboration cannot be overemphasised so work with your colleagues , share intelligence, when you see something, say something. Be loyal, be dedicated.”

Speaking on behalf of the participants , Deputy Comptroller from the Nigeria Customs Service, Abubakar Zurumi said the institute has changed their perception and that knowledge was acquired, experience was imparted and all will be put to use. He said the need to synergise on border management and security was important as they were meant to understand.

The participants were taken on a tour of facilities at the Service Headquarters especially the Command and Control Centre in the Technology Building.

The Commandant of the Institute A.S Adeleke was represented by the Deputy Commandant and the Director of Studies

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Squad( NSCDC) has nabbed four suspected rail track vandals in Nasarawa State.

A statement on Thursday by the spokesman of the NSCDC, Babawale Afolabi revealed that the four vandals were intercepted along Lafia-Akwanga–Abuja expressway, Sabon Pagi, Lafia Nasarawa State on Monday by the
Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad( CG’s SIS).

Afolabi while disclosing that the four suspected vandals have been taken into custody for further investigations and action, said they were caught during the interception of an articulated DAF truck conveying large quantities of vandalized rail track iron concealed inside iron scrap.

He said: “On 14th of August, 2023, about 1030hrs ,the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad, who are on specialized operation to checkmate nefarious activities of rail line vandals, arrested four suspected vandals who disguised as scavengers. It was later discovered that the suspects have vandalized rail track irons and concealed them inside scrap iron materials before loading the vandalized rail track irons into a truck that will convey them to the buyers.”

The National PRO stated further that the truck and the four suspects were intercepted along Lafia-Akwanga–Abuja expressway, Sabon Pagi, Lafia Nasarawa State on Monday. Details of the truck was given as an articulated DAF truck with registration number BSA 899XA and the four suspected vandals are 27 years old Anasi Ali who is the driver of the truck; Yusuf Idris, 25, Hafis Idris, 18 and Nasiru Abdullahi, 28 who served as an escort.

He said: “Item recovered from the vandals are; a DAF truck, large quantitities of offloaded scrap irons and large quantities of vandalized railways irons.”

Babawale added that the preliminary investigation carried out by the NSCDC revealed that the vandals loaded the rail truck irons and slippers in Makurdi, Benue State and concealed it inside scrap irons to disguise it as scraps and were moving the vandalized products to an undisclosed iron and steel company in Ilorin, Kwara State before they were intercepted and arrested.

In the meantime, the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Audi has ordered full scale investigation after which the suspects will be charged to court.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has extended heartfelt condolences to Seplat Energy Limited following collapse of its ‘Majestic’ oil rig near Ovhor Oilfield in Sapele Local Government Area of the State.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, culminated in the loss of one life with three others reportedly missing.

Oborevwori in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, on Wednesday in Asaba, described the incident as tragic and commiserated with the company as well as family members of the deceased.

The Governor urged the company to take urgent steps in searching for the missing crew members and launch an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the collapse of the oil rig.

The Governor said: “I am deeply shocked to hear about the sad incident of your oil rig collapsing on the way to a planned drilling location and the death of one crew member with three others still missing as of press time.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Delta, I sympathise with the management of Seplat Energy Limited on the unfortunate collapse of its Majestic oil rig leading to the death of one person and missing three crew members.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the three crew members who are still missing as of this moment as well as the family and friends of the crew member who tragically lost his life.

“I urge the management of the company to intensify rescue efforts for the missing crew members and also launch an inquiry into circumstances surrounding the unfortunate incident with a view to avoiding future occurence,” the Governor stated.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has assured of its willingness to collaborate with other security agencies to rid Niger State of all the criminal elements that have continued to terrorising the North Central state lately.

The Commandant General of the Corps, Dr. Ahmed Audi gave the pledge on Tuesday while paying courtesy visit on Niger State Governor Umar Muhammed Bago, during his working visit of the state.

According to a release on Wednesday signed by the NSCDC Director of the Public Relations, Babawale Afolabi, the Commandant General added that the Corps will strengthen their working synergy with sister agencies in the State.

He said: “We came around to see for ourselves, a kind of on- the -spot assessment, of the security situation in Niger State and to familiarize with you. We hope to work on our synergy with other security agencies in the state and create better security atmosphere for people of Niger State.”

In his address, Bago appreciated the timely visit of the NSCDC boss but lamented the nefarous activities of the bamdits, cattle rustlers, illegal miners among other criminalities in the State adding that the farmers are worst hit as many have abandoned the farm lands due to fear of being attacked.

He lamented that: “Niger State is being referred to as food basket of the country largely due to our largest land mass in the country (about 76.36km2 which is also suitable for agriculture and being made use by the government and large percentage of the people. But the growing security concern meant that our people are constantly at the mercy of bandits and other criminal elements.”

The governor, who also decried the nefarious activities of the illegal miners in the state, promised to continue to work on how to better equiped the security agencies in the State by donating more vehicles and housing units

The NSCDC boss who also seized the occasion to appreciate the governor’s kind gesture for recently donating Hilux patrol vans and other security gadgets to the security agencies in the state, however implored the governor to create more office structures for the NSCDC across all the 26 local governments in the state.

The United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), in collaboration with the Government of Nigeria and other stakeholders, held a trade fair in Abuja to foster innovation and collaboration to address severe acute malnutrition.

Tagged “Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF) and other Life-Saving Nutrition Commodities Expo”, the event provided a platform for government officials, the donor community, and RUTF manufacturers to discuss challenges, share experiences, network, and explore collaborative opportunities in expanding RUTF programmes.

It also allowed local manufacturers, investors, and other operators in the RUTF and other life-saving nutrition commodities value chains to showcase their products and innovations.
In Nigeria, severe acute malnutrition remains a significant public health concern, affecting 3.6 million children.

USAID in a statement on Wednesday said with persistent challenges related to food insecurity, limited access to quality healthcare, and inadequate nutrition interventions, the situation calls for robust multisectoral collaboration and innovation. Expanding sustainable local access to affordable life-saving nutrition commodities is essential to address severe malnutrition in Nigerian children.

The 2021 Food Consumption and Micronutrients Survey revealed that the prevalence of severe malnutrition in Nigerian children has increased from 7 to 12 percent over the last five years.

Alarmingly, only 2.8 percent of these children received treatment with therapeutic foods due to inadequate access to RUTF. One aspect of increasing access to this lifesaving treatment is being addressed through the local production and procurement of RUTF. Leading local producers, including Ariel Foods, Emzor Foods, Dabs, and Nutri-K, have demonstrated the capacity to sustainably supply these life-saving nutrition commodities.

Speaking at Wednesday’s event in Abuja, USAID Mission Director Dr. Anne Patterson said: “This Trade Fair provides a much-needed platform for local manufacturers, investors, and other operators in the RUTF and nutrition commodities value chain to display their products and innovations. In addition, participants will have a valuable opportunity to network and build connections with the Nigerian government, donors, implementing partners, and other stakeholders. We hope that this trade fair provides a platform to build meaningful relationships that will result in sustainable local access to affordable, lifesaving, nutrition commodities that help reduce severe malnutrition in Nigeria.”

According to Interim Chief of Party for the USAID funded Feed the Future Nigeria Rural Resilience Activity, John Rachkara, this Trade Fair is a game changer.

He said: “Supporting local production of specialized nutritious products and facilitating linkages for local sourcing of raw materials will undoubtedly drive down the cost of RUTF production. If the costs come down, we can save more lives with the same amount of resources.

“With the partnerships formed during this trade fair, we expect to see a turning point in the fight against malnutrition in Nigeria, leading to a bright future where no child is left malnourished.”

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has distributed food and other palliatives to 2,000 residents of Feezan ward in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC).

The distribution which took place on Wednesday at the Mohammed Goni College of Legal and Islamic Studies is part of ongoing efforts to reduce hardship caused by rising cost of living as a result of the withdrawal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.

Zulum had in July launched the distribution of palliatives targeted at over 300,000 households with about six persons per household to reach one million and eight hundred thousand persons in need.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesman, Isa Gusau, under the programme, each eligible resident in Feezan received a palliative voucher that entitled them to get food items in order to reduce the hardship due to the rising prices of commodities.

Gusau said at the latest distribution in Feezan, the 2,000 households comprising 1,000 heads of male households and 1,000 heads of female households each received one bag of rice and a bag of beans.

He noted that in order to ensure transparency and accountability in the selection process, Borno State Government engaged the civil society to be part of the palliative distribution committee.

Speaking at the event, Governor Zulum represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Emirates Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele, said 15 wards in Maiduguri Metropolis will benefit with each ward receiving 2,000 bags of rice and 2,000 bags of beans.

United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed has observed that Africa is the best investment proposition of the 21st century, in view of its natural resources, arable land and massive population.

She said: “The long term structural endowments of our continent are as strong as ever, most of the world’s natural resources are in Africa and 60% of the world’s arable land and a massive population of motivated youth, Africa is the best investment propositions of the 21st century.”
She gave the verdict at the second edition of the Africa Social Impact Summit co-convened by the Sterling One Foundation and the United Nations in Nigeria, and held in Lagos.

According to a statement on Tuesday, she cautioned that investment in Africa must go beyond extracting raw material, and emphasized that “It must build the roots of a modern economy, hard and soft infrastructure alike, and this must include bold investments into Africa’s strongest asset, its people at the continental, national and local levels.”

Mohammed advocated for channeling massive, targeted investments into youth development, local employment and employability, climate smart solutions, education, health, renewable energy and improved water and sanitation facilities.
However, she cautioned that it would require the private and public sectors working together to scale the necessary financing instruments, guarantees de-risking mechanisms, to strengthen Africa’s development finance network and its institutions.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, stressed the need for all to come together with a renewed spirit of collaboration, innovation, and determination, to build a prosperous and sustainable Africa for all.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said that the various projections suggested that Africa would be home to over half of the world’s poorest people by 2030, and that alone underscored the urgency and importance of the summit and the work all needed to do.

“I call upon the private sector, with its scale, sustainability, and innovation, to take the lead in driving change. We must harness the strength of our multi-stakeholder partnerships and leverage enterprise-driven innovations to create impact ecosystems that foster inclusive growth and recovery.” The Governor said.

The Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, Olajeju Ibekwe, disclosed that the second edition of the Africa Social Impact Summit was a marked improvement on the 2022 edition.

She said: “I am also humbled by the intentionality of the private sector to own the sustainable development goals and move the needle. We are grateful to the partnership of the United Nations as our co-convenor for this conference.”

Ibekwe expressed hope for several partnerships and innovations to emerge from the summit, adding that: “And we are also looking forward to existing social impact initiatives in different rural communities, accessing more resources, multilevel resources to be able to do more and spread their impact from communities to communities across the Africa.”

Earlier, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, emphasized that “You can’t do business on a dead planet. Africa’s private sector can be a catalyst for change, supercharging our trajectory towards the 2030 Agenda.”

To achieve the pace and scale of transformative change that the world needs, Schmale noted that private sector investments must not just be motivated by profit but by considerations of what would have the greatest social impact.
He urged the CEOs and investors to embed sustainability into their decision making and align their business practices with the SDGs.

The theme of the Summit held on 10 – 11 August 2023, was ‘Global Vision, Local Action: Repositioning the African Development Ecosystem For Sustainable Outcomes.’

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC) has said it would commence the immediate manhunt of infrastructure vandals and manhole thieves in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

The promise was made on Tuesday by the newly deployed Commandant of the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), of the Corps, Olusola Odumosu, while taking over the Command.

Odumosu, who took over the Command after years of service as the Corps National Director of Public Relations, (DRO) at the national headquarters, Abuja, said “We will tackle the menace of manhole theft since the criminals are not relenting, we too will not relent and will ensure that we put them where they belong. I am going to declare war in vandals and manhole thieves in Abuja.”

He added that: “I want you to know that FCT Command by virtue of location is very central and is in fact the eyes of the corps. So much attention is focused on the FCT therefore we have to live up to expectation, we have to disappoint all the naysayers hence under my leadership, I want us to transform the FCT command.

“I am the son of my father the Commandant General of the Corps, Dr. Ahmed Audi and you see how he operates, hence we are going to work very asidiously, we are going to put in our best and that is why I want to encourage you all.”

Odumosu, while charging officers of the corps on the need for discipline and total dedication to duty, also urged officers to exercise civility in dealing with members of the public and stay away from harassing civilians especially journalists in the course of their duties.

He said: “NSCDC is one organisation that has enjoyed social acceptability among the people and that is one of the comparative advantage that we have therefore under my leadership, everyone of you is an ambassador of the corps.

“One of the things I will have issues with is any unbecoming act by a civil defender that will embarass the corps.”

Odumosu takes over from Commandant Peter Maigari, who has been nominated and thus proceeding on a strategic course at the National Security Institute for the next one year.

-BY CHUKWUDI ASOYA:

The Chairman of Amachai Youth, Comrade Emmanuel Onwudinjo Agala has described the online post of his impeachment as baseless , saying that no one has the right to impeach elected government .

He stated this in Okpanam while reacting to an online post that he had been impeached by the Diokpa-Isi of Amachai, Ogbueshi Mathias Okolie.

Comrade Agala said that initially , Amachai youths were divided into different factions, adding that it took God’s intervention for his administration to be able to bring them together under one one united body .

He said that there youths in the community that refused to allow peace to reign in Amachai community, stressing that as a peace lover and bright builder he was able to broker peace among them.

Comrade Onwudinjo stated that the Diokpa,-Isi of Amachai ,Ogbueshi Mathias Okolie had.no right to unseat an elected Youth Chairman just by posting the notice on the social media without the laid procedure.

He explained that for several years, Amachai community had been in battle with her neighboring town , Issele-Azagba over Amachai land laying by the boundary between Okpanam and Issele-azagba .

He said that Issele-Azagba people had encroached and taken possession of Amachai community land, saying that it took the efforts of his administration to meet several times with the Diokpa of Amachai to see how they could put a stop on the ugly trend by the trespassers.

Comrade Agala noted that the Diokpa-Isi of Amachai refused to embrace their approach and commitment, adding that the Diokpa-Isi resorted to the issue of land recovery of land.

He said that the cold war had been on for the past 3 years . His words: ” How can we start recovery when strangers are invading our land and the Diokpa refused us to stop the invaders”.

Comrade Agala stated the mobilised Amachai youths and they succeeded in chasing the invaders from Issele-azagba away from Amachai community land located around the boundary between Okpanam and Issele-azagba.

Comrade Onwudinjo said youths are the leaders of tomorrow and that our fore fathers fought for us in the past so it was in continuation of the legacy our fore fathers had kept on ground that the Youths are also fighting for the future that instead of Diokpa of Amachai to welcome them and commend them for a good fight, he said they did it without his consent adding that the deviants youths who are seriously into drugs, alcohol and social vices around Diokpa are the people planning coup to impeach his government and that they have lured Diokpa into pronouncing that he is not longer the Chairman of Amachai Youths.

He said as the Diokpa of Amachai community, he had no business with the youth wing unless when there was crisis in the youth wing, saying that he was duly elected as a Chairman by Amachai Youths and not by Diokpa of Amachai that Diokpa .

The Amachai Youth Chairman said that under his leadership, there was no crisis among the youths and called on the general public to disregard the online media reports of Diokpa stepping him down as the Chairman of Amachai community youths.

He further described his purported impeachment news as the handiwork of mischief makers ,adding that about 98% of the youths were solidly behind his government.

On his part, Mr Felix Ikediashi called on the public to disregard the online post, saying it was a handiwork of mischief makers who do not want the progress and growth of Amachai community,

He said that an institution elected by individuals could not be desolved just like that without following due process , stressing that the said Diokpa-Isi could not single handedly decide to remove or impeach an elected Chairman only to impose an unelected leader on the Youths of Amachai community.

Mr Ikediashi said that Amachai community were happy and comfortable with the Comrade Emmamuel Onwudinjo Agala led administration, adding that his administration was already moving Amachai community forward .

He said that there had been progress and growth under the leadership of Comrade Agala , recalling that the community had won the land case in court with Issele-Azagba people and called on everyone to support the Onwudinjo Agala led administration for a great Amachai.

Also speaking, a one time Secretary of Amachai Community Youths, Mr Stephen Oborota said that b Amachai Youth wing had legal way of running their activities in the community.

He said that the Amachai youths chairman was not appointment but was elected into power by the youths

Mr Oborota said that election process started in the administration of Mr Felix Amamize and that after his administration , the government of Comrade Onwudinjo Agala came into power, which he affirmed was duly elected by Amachai Youths body.

The Economic Community of West African States {ECOWAS) Commission has accused the Nigerien junta of provocation and contradicting it’s reported willingness to dialogue in order to resolve the troubled country’s political impasse with latest move to charged the deposed President Mohamed Bazoum with treason.

A statement on Monday read: “ECOWAS has learnt with stupefaction attempts to bring charges of high treason against H.E. Mohamed Bazoum, President of the Republic of Nigeria.

“ECOWAS condemns this move as it represents yet another form of provocation and contradicts the reported willingness of the military authorities in the Republic of Nigeria to restore constitutional order through peaceful means.’

The Commission added that “President Bazoum remains the democratically elected President of the Republic of Nigeria recognized by ECOWAS and the international community. ECOWAS condemns his illegal detention and calls for his immediate release and reinstatement.’

The attention of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), has been drawn to the publication in the Sunday Punch on Page 6 which reads: ‘FG sets up Panel to Reconstitute Boards of Parastatals’.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, wishes to state clearly that there is no truth in the story as published in the Sunday Punch neither has government set up any ad-hoc committee as alleged to review the resumes of individuals who would fill such board appointments as stated in the said publication.

The visit of the two former Governors of Kebbi State, Atiku Bagudu and Jigawa State, Abubakar Badaru, to his office on Friday had nothing to do with such adhoc committee. It has everything to do with their recent appointment as ministers.

Also, the reporter inaccurately quoted the Spokesperson of the OSGF as indicating that 14 agencies were stipulated to have been exempted. Whereas, the release in question at the time only recieved the President’s approval for two agencies- National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC).

In order to avoid inaccurate reporting, SGF admonishes media personnel to always cross-check information directly from authorized persons in his office rather than depending on some social media reports which may be inaccurate.

Willie Bassey
Director, Information
August 13th, 2023.I

The Community Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), otherwise known as ECOWAS Parliament has appointed Nigeria’s lawmaker, Idris Wase to lead 10 other parliamentarians to Mediate with Niger junta.

This is a last ditch attempt by the subregional body parliamentary body to prevent military confrontation with the Nigerien military who forceful took power from President Mohamed Bazoum.

The ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government led by Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu had already ordered the activation of ECOWAS of the subregional standby force to return the country to democratic rule after initial attempts at dialogue have failed.

But ECOWAS Parliament members after a webinar on Saturday opted to give a last chance at peace by inaugurating a mediation committee to convince the junta to allow democracy to return.

The Parliament also appealed to the appropriate ECOWAS authority to review the sanctions on Niger coupists as the community members are the one bearing the brunt.

The ad hoc committee, which, is to be led by the First Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, Rt. Hon. Idris Wase, is mandated to apart for the task in Niger saddled with the task of interfacing with the military juntas in Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso to accelerate the return to democratic rule in those countries as well.

This move was part of the Parliamentary option of diplomacy, to support the mediation effort of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, in sustaining democratic governance in the subregion.

It was part of resolutions reached at the end of the Virtual Extra Ordinary Session of ECOWAS Parliament, convened by the Speaker, Sidie Tunis to delibrate on the Niger political crisis.

The committee are to report back to the Parliament for further legislative actions.

During the plenary, a Nigerian MP, Senator Abiodun Olujimi, urged ECOWAS to look beyond the surface in finding lasting solution to the Niger political impasse.

She had warned that the support the coupists in Niger enjoys from citizens should not be taken for granted.

She said: “Let us look back and be circumspect. Our people are copycat, and they like to copy bad things. We need to dig deep to find out the real reason for the coup.”

She also posited that: “We need to legislate on the issue of coup d’etat to forestall future occurrence”.

MPs have appealed to ECOWAS Authority to relax the sanctions so that those it is made to protect should not die of diseases and starvation.

The Parliament also muted the idea of engaging the super powers who had been fingered to be behind the crisis in Niger, so as to find a middle ground in resolving the crisis permanently.

Wase is given the task of leading 10 other members to Niger on the mediation duty.

Other notable members include Hon. Ibrahima from Togo, Hon. Edwin Melvin Snowe from Liberia, Hon. Foutoumatta Njai from Gambia, and Senator Ali Ndume from Nigeria.

Representatives from Senegal, Ghana, Cape Verde, Benin Republic, and Guinea Bissau are also part of the committee.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has lamented that no fewer than 33,983 persons have already been affected by the flooding during the ongoing raining season in parts of the country.

The Director, Planning, Research and Forecasting, Hajiya Fatima Kasim gave the figure on Thursday at the Emergency Coordination Forum Meeting in Abuja.

She said that flooding which had become a yearly occurrence in the country, is usually caused by various factors which include improper building including bad infrastructure design and construction.

Kasim listed other factors to include; poor drainage system, poor solid waste management, harmful land-use practices such as deforestation and climate change, among others.

She said that the 2023 Seasonal Climate Prediction released by NiMet earlier in the year predicted a normal to above-normal rainfall patterns for the country, adding that the Annual Flood Outlook forecasted by NIHSA also predicted that 178 local government areas in 32 states and FCT are within the high flood risk areas.

She however noted that in the last seven months, some data had been collated by the agency on the figure of people affected so far by flood disasters in the country.

She said: “As at Aug. 9, the following data has been collated in respect of 2023 flooding.

“Number of states affected – 10 states; Number of persons affected – 33,983; Number of persons displaced – 7,353; Number of persons injured – 75; Number of deaths – 5; Number of houses totally damaged – 1,679 and Farmlands totally damaged – 866 hectares,” she said.

Earlier in his remarks, Director-General, NEMA, Mr Mustapha Ahmed, said the agency deemed it fit to resuscitate the Emergency Coordination Forum meeting to give adequate attention to disaster management.

He said: “The emergency coordination forum is an avenue for stakeholders to come together to discuss humanitarian challenges being faced by the citizens as a result of disasters and emergencies.

“This is to foster partnership, collaboration and cooperation among relevant stakeholders in emergency management in the country.”

Also speaking at the event, Director-General, NIHSA, Mr Clement Nze,, said that so far not less than 20 states and the FCT had experienced one degree of flooding or the other, adding that over 46 LGAs had also been affected and several casualties recorded and houses submerged.

He said that most of the flood incidents recorded so far were as a result of overflow of silted rivers, channels and poor or blocked drainage systems.
He added that these resulted from localised rainfall that generated from flash and urban flooding in the urban areas and their metropolis.

On his part, Statistician-General of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Mr Adeyemi Adeniran, said that the NBS 2022 flood assessment exercise recorded a high impact of flooding on agriculture and properties.

He said: “The NBS Flood Assessment exercise in collaboration with NEMA and UNDP, gathered information on flood-affected areas and the socio-economic consequences.

“Six states were assessed: Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Jigawa, Kogi, and Nasarawa, with Jigawa having the highest percentage of affected households, which is 90.7 per cent.

“The assessment focused on four key indicators: impact on businesses, food availability, health effects, and access to basic services.

“The report showed that the consequences of the flooding on agriculture and properties was very significant.”

Various Nigeria’s borders with Republic of Niger remain close, the spokesman of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Dr Aridegbe Adedotun has said.

He said the Acting Controller General of Immigration, Caroline Adepoju has ensured that all official border points with the troubled country is closed as ordered by President Bola Tinubu

He said the Acting CGI has also conducted an assessment visit to the Illela Border Control Post to ensure the effective implementation of the Federal Government’s directive to temporarily close land borders with Niger Republic in light of their ongoing political instability.

According to him, the aim of the visit was to evaluate the level of compliance with the closure and reinforce the importance of interagency collaboration and intelligence sharing.

In a statement he said during the visit the Acting CGI expressed her satisfaction with the degree of compliance observed at the Illela Border Control Post. She extended her appreciation to the officers for their diligence in upholding the closure directives.

He added that the Acting CGI Adepoju took the opportunity to reiterate her earlier directive to all Comptrollers of Commands in states bordering Niger Republic, emphasizing the need for unwavering adherence to the closure measures.

“Addressing the officers, Acting CGI Adepoju remarked, ‘having witnessed the working conditions firsthand, including the Mamman Suka checkpoint, I recognize the challenges faced by my personnel. I am committed to leveraging our budgetary allocation to enhance the overall welfare and working environment of our personnel nationwide,” the spokesman said.

Prior to her visit to the Illela Control Post, the Acting CGI also made a visit to the Usman Danfodio Teaching Hospital where she directly engaged with injured personnel who had fallen victim to a bandit assault at the Mamman Suka checkpoint near Illela. He said: “This unfortunate incident resulted in the tragic loss of two lives., adding that while interacting with the hospitalized officers, the Acting CGI extended her unwavering support and solidarity. She pledged to provide assistance to the grieving families during this trying period and made a firm commitment to ensuring that her personnel’s sacrifices would not be in vain as all necessary resources to bring the bandits to justice will be deployed.

Acting CGI further engaged with the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, and also paid a visit to the palace of the Sultan of Sokoto His Eminence, Sa’ad Abubakar III.

“In these meetings, she sought the support of both the State government and traditional leaders in effectively managing the borders. She received assurances of collaboration and support from both quarters, with the government and traditional rulers pledging their commitment to the successful implementation of all border management initiatives”, he said

He however denied reports of the arrest of some of the personnel of the Service, who reportedly mounted an illegal roadblock along the Seme border axis.

He said the report was false, stating that: “I wish to draw your attention to publication that has gone viral regarding immigration officers arrested along the Seme axis purported to have mounted illegal checkpoints and arrested by police is false and baseless. I have contacted the ACG Zone A who has refuted the false claims.

“It is in this regard that I want to set the records straight that none of our officers are involved and Ag CGIS Caroline Wuraola Adepoju is leaving no stone unturned in order to make our Noble Service an envy amongst the Security Agencies”.

Delta State Government, Monday, commenced demolition of buildings erected along waterways and causing flooding across the state in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s directive.

The demolition exercise started with the pulling down of parts of three buildings, including a yet-to-be-completed church structure and a storey building at Ugboroke, in Uvwie Local Government Area of the state.

The demolished parts of the buildings were occupying waterways believed to be responsible for the annual flooding of houses in the area.

Director-General, Special Duties, Governor’s Office, Asaba, Mr Frank Omare, led the amphibious swam buggy to the area, amid security protection from soldiers drafted from the 3 Battalion, Nigerian Army, Effurun.

The demolition and dredging exercise, which started on Monday at Uvwie Local Government Area will move to Warri, Warri South Local Government Area, Udu, Ughelli and other flood-prone parts of the state.

Speaking to journalists on Monday during the demolition exercise at Ugboroke, Mr Omare, who had done similar job as Commissioner for Environment during the administration of Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, said he would follow the mandate given to him without discrimination, adding that seven heavy equipment are at work.

“One of the mandates given to me is to remove illegal structures all over the state; in every local government area. And this is just the beginning and we’ve given them over two months to ensure that those who had built on natural water ways remove their buildings, those who do not have approval plans they should remove their buildings. And they’ve deliberately refused.

“In Hgboroke, Uvwie Local Government Area, if there’s rain for 10 minutes, everywhere will be flooded. The place is under water and we cannot continue to allow it.

“We’re not here for individual interest but the general interest. We will not compromise.

“No sentiments. The falling away of the yellow leave is a warning to the green one. We’ve started and we’re continuing. Times are hard, things are rough, but we must do the right thing.

“The law is law. We have about seven equipment scattered across Warri South and Uvwie local government areas. When we’re done, we’d move to other local government. It’s a warning to others.

“Nobody’s building will be spared no matter who is involved. We will not compromise. This is the way to go. Forty per cent houses here have no soak-away system. Five metres to the drainage, the roads and canals must be adhered to.

“Ministry of land and survey urban renewal are all with me to ensure things are done properly. We’re going to be very bold, and we’re bold, we’re going to be very focused and we’re focused and we’re going to ensure that nobody is victimised. We’re paying so much money to carry out this exercise.

“Government bears the cost of all logistics to bring back sanity. Oborevwori is a street man. He knows the streets. We’re ready for those who are ready for trouble. This is a warning to others.

“Any building that has approval please bring them. Whether they’re wrongly approved, we’ll take responsibility. That’s why the ministries in charge are here. They’d tell me how they approved buildings build on waterways,” he noted.

Meanwhile, one of the residents, whose father’s building was affected, David Adu, expressed happiness that the annual flooding in the area will subside with the demolition and dredging of the canal.

“I’m happy the demolition is ongoing even though my father’s house is affected. I only ask they allow us remove our items from the building before total demolition. They should ensure they strictly follow the master plan by bringing back the canal and roads encroached on by builders,” he charged.