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Mohammed bin Rashid honours 10 Winners of 2022 Zayed Sustainability Prize

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) :

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, has formally presented awards to the 10 winners of the 2022 Zayed Sustainability Prize.

The Prize’s Awards Ceremony coincided with the start of the 2022 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). The ceremony was also attended by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum congratulated winners across the five categories reaffirming the Prize’s key role in realising the aspirations of participants to achieve sustainable development within their communities.

This year, the Zayed Sustainability Prize, along with ADSW, joined forces with Expo 2020 Dubai for hosting the ADSW Opening Ceremony and the 13th edition of the Prize’s Awards Ceremony, both of which took place on the morning of Monday, 17th January at the Dubai Exhibition Centre. The event brought thousands of attendees and more than 600 VIPs from around the world together, including heads of state, government ministers, industry leaders and country ambassadors, amongst others.
In his remarks on the Awards Ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, said: “The UAE continues to make important strides and contributions to advancing the global sustainability agenda to stimulate economic and human sustainable development, under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The Zayed Sustainability Prize remains at the forefront of these efforts as it continues to set the course for alleviating hardships and improving lives by rewarding impact and innovation through a platform that can reach a much larger number of beneficiaries.”

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid highlighted the support, involvement and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, while underscoring how the hosting of the Awards Ceremony at Expo 2020 Dubai coupled with the recent announcement of the Principles of the 50, which marked the UAE’s Golden Jubilee last month, provide an optimal backdrop to this year’s awards, as all these national efforts share one single goal – to create a more sustainable future for all.”

His Highness continued: “Over the last 14 years, the wise and long-term vision and legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed, has ignited the passions of millions of sustainability pioneers the world over, inspiring us to take the Prize to new heights by strengthening and diversifying its offerings to become the all-encompassing award it is today.”

The event was also attended by H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs; H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council; and Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, in addition to various heads of state, ministers, and other senior-level dignitaries from the UAE and abroad, in addition to past winners, and the 2022 finalists.

The US$3 million Prize is the UAE’s pioneering sustainability award that recognises small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-profit organisations (NPOs), and global high schools for their innovative, impactful, and inspirational sustainability and humanitarian solutions. Through its 86 former winners, the Prize has transformed the lives of more than 370 million people, across 150 countries, since 2008. In the Health, Food, Energy, and Water categories, each winner receives USD 600,000, while the Global High Schools category has six winners, representing six world regions, with each winner receiving up to USD 100,000.

In terms of the Global High School category, His Highness highlighted the importance of strengthening the youth’s capacity as a driving force for future sustainable development to shape tomorrow’s leaders and effectively empower them to play a larger role in advancing their impact on socio-cultural and economic development, in a rapidly changing world.

On a broader level, His Highness also praised the level of foresight and sophistication that many of the student-led proposals displayed, noting their potential impact on an individual, community and global level.

In the ‘Health’ Category, Argentina’s Mamotest was awarded the Prize for its efforts to increase access to diagnoses and life-saving services in tele-radiology and remote analysis. Mamotest is currently deploying centres that are providing 582,697 beneficiaries affected by breast cancer access to quality healthcare, with plans to scale this to over 1 million people over a period of five years. Mamotest also enjoys robust patient-journey follow up as 87% of women diagnosed within their system could receive lifesaving treatment on time. Furthermore, Mamotest has successfully carried out more than 5,000 diagnoses to date while creating awareness in millions of women.

S4S Technologies from India was the ‘Food’ category winner for its important work in food preservation and dehydration systems. They currently directly impact 35,820 people and the SME plans to scale this to 10 million individuals over the course of five years.

The organisation is committed to empowering rural women and harnessing new technology to reduce food waste and improve income for farmers and is deploying solar-powered technology to help women farmers increase their earnings. As part of its commitment to supporting Gender Equality, backed by economic opportunities, S4S Technologies has provided additional income to 455 women farmers turned micro-entrepreneurs, increasing their profit between 50 to 200%, annually.

In the Energy category, the Bangladesh-based SOLshare created an interconnected microgrid for peer-to-peer energy exchange networks to enable more efficient distribution of electricity across rural communities in the country. The organisation won the 2022 award for its efforts in energy management as it currently benefits a total of 35, 300 people with plans to expand reach to 2 million people in the next five years.

SOLshare is providing more than 1,000 households with access to over 85 MWh of additional clean energy and serves approximately 500 entrepreneurs within their grids, of which 25% are women who experience significant income rises as a result.

Wateroam, an SME from Singapore, secured the ‘Water’ category win for its commitment to tackling the global challenge of contaminated water through portable water filters to serve disaster-hit and rural communities. Wateraom’s safe drinking water solutions are benefitting more than 150,000 people across 38 countries globally with daily access to clean drinking water and has plans to expand its reach to 1 million people over a period of five years.

The Chair of the Jury and former President of the Republic of Iceland, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, said: “The level of creativity, vision and potential scale outlined by this year’s winners has been truly remarkable and uplifting as the sustainability world looks to the future through a more challenging, yet determined prism. We are confident that all these winners will set the cornerstones for future economic growth and prosperity for vulnerable communities, within and beyond their borders, while also significantly contributing to key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”

Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize said: “Following the guidance of the UAE’s wise leadership and the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed, the Prize continues to deliver real, meaningful, and long-term impact to numerous communities around the world. This has earned the Prize a global reputation as a catalyst for change for over a decade, as it has to date, benefited the lives of more than 370 million people.”

H.E Al Jaber added, “The hosting of the Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony along with the opening of ADSW at Expo 2020 Dubai reinforces the UAE’s commitment to sustainable and humanitarian development, which characterises the country’s progressive, inclusive model for economic growth.”

“Thanks to our current roster of 96 winners and their shared commitment to building a better world, communities who were living in the dark have been illuminated through essential solar lighting, millions of children are accessing safe drinking water, hunger and malnutrition are being combatted through sustainable food solutions, and access to life-saving healthcare in remote parts of the world is being optimised.”

The Prize’s Director General concluded his remarks by underscoring the amplified impact and geographic reach that the Prize has achieved through the UAE-driven ‘Beyond2020’ humanitarian initiative. Beyond2020 has been donating critical sustainability solutions developed by past winners and finalists to vulnerable communities in various parts of the world, and in cooperation with several leading Emirati and international partners.

In the Global High Schools category, six schools, each representing a world region, receive an award and high schools submit project proposals to build or augment a solution they developed for their school or local community. The objective of this category, introduced to the Prize in 2012, is to inspire the young people to become pioneers, innovators and sustainability advocates who will contribute to a more sustainable future.

The recipients of the 2022 awards are Instituto Iberia (Dominican Republic), representing The Americas; Liceo Europeo (Spain), representing Europe & Central Asia; Eastern Mediterranean School (Israel), representing the Middle East & North Africa region; Sayidina Abubakar Secondary School (Uganda), representing Sub-Saharan Africa; Hira School (Maldives), representing South Asia, and finally, UWC ISAK (Japan) from the East Asia & Pacific region.

*Source: AETOSWire

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AFC Raises $400mn In Syndicated Loan For Critical Infrastructure In Africa

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) :

Africa Finance Corporation, Africa’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has raised USD$400 million in a new syndicated loan to support the post-pandemic recovery through critical development of infrastructure.

The three-year facility – the first from AFC since 2018 – was increased from an initial target of USD$300 million as strong interest from investors led to the offering being 2.5 times oversubscribed. The proceeds will facilitate upcoming infrastructure projects that address the continent’s developmental challenges.

“The transaction demonstrates the confidence of banking partners, both old and new, in AFC’s strong credit risk profile and broadening global appeal in the capital markets,” said Banji Fehintola, Senior Director & Treasurer at AFC.

“This loan will be instrumental in working towards plugging the infrastructure gap we are facing on this continent, especially following the damaging effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. We remain committed to partnering with experienced, like-minded organizations to provide sustainable finance for infrastructure development in Africa, while achieving the lowest borrowing costs of any institution on the continent.”

Moody’s recently improved its outlook for AFC’s investment grade credit ratings to ‘stable.’ Its senior unsecured ratings at A3 and short-term issuer ratings at P-2 are the second highest of any institution in Africa.
New relationships forged with the diverse pool of international investors behind the syndicated loan will enable flexible financial instruments and further diversification of AFC’s investment portfolio.

Absa Bank Limited (acting through its Corporate and Investment Banking division), Bank of China Limited, London Branch, First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC, ICBC (London) plc, Mashreq Bank PSC, MUFG Bank Ltd, Nedbank Limited, London Branch, Rand Merchant Bank, a division of FirstRand Bank Limited, London Branch, Standard Chartered Bank and SMBC Bank International plc, acted as Bookrunners and Mandated Lead Arrangers (“BMLAs”), whilst Korea Development Bank and Standard Bank of South Africa acted as Mandated Lead Arrangers (“MLAs”). MUFG Bank Ltd and ICBC (London) plc also acted as Facility Agent and Documentation Agent respectively.

*Source: AETOSWire

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U.S Donates Another Batch of 3.2 million COVID-19 Vaccines

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U.S Donates Another Batch of 3.2 million COVID-19 Vaccines

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) :

The United States has delivered another batch of 3.2 million Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines to Nigeria.

This is the latest donation to Nigeria by U.S, which has provided to Nigeria over $130 million of technical and financial support to her COVID-19 response specifically for vaccination roll out and administration, deployment of personnel to support the response, last mile delivery and supply chain logistics, epidemiological and vaccine related COVID-19 surveys and surveillance systems, testing capacity and molecular lab networks, personal protective equipment, and provision of rapid response teams. 

A statement on Tuesday by U.S Embassy in Nigeria revealed that Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard visited the National Strategic Warehouse to welcome the latest delivery of U.S.-government donated COVID-19 vaccines, and discussed COVID-19 vaccine storage and distribution with the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency Dr. Faisal Shuaib and his technical and warehouse staff.

The visit of the Ambassador marked the most recent donation of 3.2 million Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines by the United States to Nigeria. 

According to the statement, these vaccines have over 6 months of validity before expiration and are being stored at the National Strategic Warehouse for distribution to thousands of COVID-19 vaccination sites nationwide. 

During the visit, Ambassador Leonard inspected the vaccine doses and discussed how the agency is maintaining proper ultra-cold storage, insisting that safe and effective vaccines “are our best tool to ending the pandemic.”

 The statement added that the latest shipment reflects the United States’ commitment to purchase and donate 1.2 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses worldwide, noting that to date, the United States has delivered more than 370 million vaccine doses to over 110 countries.  This includes the over 24.7 million U.S-donated doses of COVID-19 vaccines to the Nigerian people, while revealing that all U.S.-donated Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine doses to Nigeria have had an expiration deadline of at least 6 months or more upon receipt to ensure adequate time for use.
 
The statement said: “Vaccine donations are a part of the U.S. government’s continued partnership with the Government of Nigeria in combating COVID-19.  To date, the U.S. government has provided over $130 million of technical and financial support to Nigeria’s COVID-19 response specifically for vaccination roll out and administration, deployment of personnel to support the response, last mile delivery and supply chain logistics, epidemiological and vaccine related COVID-19 surveys and surveillance systems, testing capacity and molecular lab networks, personal protective equipment, and provision of rapid response teams.  The U.S. government has also contributed to the training of over 200,000 military and civilian personnel on COVID-19 control measures and maintaining preventive health and social services.”
 
The U.S. government, meanwhile, urged all Nigerians to go out and get vaccinated to make themselves safe and make use of the donated COVID-19 vaccines, insisting that these actions will strengthen not only the health and well-being of the nation but the overall worldwide response to the pandemic. 

It noted that every individual plays a vital role in supporting the global effort needed to stem the spread of COVID-19., promising that the U.S. government will continue its partnership with the Nigerian Ministry of Health and Centre for Disease Control to defeat COVID-19 and deliver life-saving vaccine doses across the country via COVAX.

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NLNG Suspension of Exportation of Cooking Gas, Relief -Ikeazor

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NLNG Suspension of Exportation of Cooking Gas, Relief -Ikeazor

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) :

Nigeria’s Minister of State for the Environment, Chief Sharon Ikeazor has said the decision of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) Limited to suspend exportation of the cooking gas will not only bring down the price of the commodity but also bring relief to the nation’s forests and the ecosystems.

The Minister who described the decision of the NLNG as courageous, noted that it was patriotic for the company to  suspend the exportation of cooking gas while approving 100 per cent domestic supply of the product.

Ikeazor also noted that such a bold initiative was a welcomed development and a step in the right direction that will not only bring down the price of the commodity but also bring relief to our forests and the ecosystems.

The Minister in a statement on Monday by the spokesman of the Ministry, Saghir el Mohammed said  “The NLNG should be commended for its sensitivity and responsiveness to the plight of Nigerians.

“For us in the environment sector, this singular decision will not only help in restoring our forests and in addressing some of our climate challenges, but also facilitate the attainment of our Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and other aspects of the Paris Agreement.”

Ikeazor recalled that shortly after the increase in the prices of cooking gas in the country, millions of Nigerians could no longer afford the commodity and consequently resorted to firewood and charcoal as alternatives.

According to her, “ the unhealthy development has been so severe on the forest ecosystem that the reserves and even trees outside the forests were not spared”.

The Minister while regretting that cutting the forests for fuel wood and charcoal has been a major cause of deforestation and other climate change challenges, lamented that wood and charcoal smokes contribute to air pollution and other pollutants that produce greenhouse gases.

She said that: “We in the environment sector strongly support and believe that by making gas available and affordable, being the cleanest of the fossil fuels, Nigeria is now set  towards cutting down on its carbon emissions drastically, thus play a prominent role during the current energy transition period.”


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What PDP Govs Said About Buhari, APC Will Shock You *Read Communique Issued In P/Harcourt

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What PDP Govs Said About Buhari, APC Will Shock You *Read Communique Issued In P/Harcourt

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) :

COMMUNIQUE ISSUED BY THE PDP GOVERNORS’ FORUM AT THE END OF THEIR MEETING IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE, JANUARY 17, 2022.

The PDP Governors’ Forum held its regular meeting crucial to the sustenance of our Democracy on Monday, 17th January, 2022, at the Rivers State Government House, Port Harcourt, the first in the new year. The meeting once again reviewed the state of the States, the state of the nation and THE PDP and issued the following Communique:

  1. The PDP Governors congratulated the entire PDP family for conducting a smooth and credible National Convention that led to the emergence of the highly acclaimed Senator Dr. Iyorchia Ayu-led National Executive Committee and commended the new PDP NWC for hitting the ground running with respect to repositioning the PDP into a credible vehicle for RESCUING and REBUILDING Nigeria which has been battered by bad economy, insecurity, unemployment and other social ills by the incompetent and inept APC Administration.
  2. The PDP Governors requested the National Assembly to quickly conclude deliberations on the Electoral Act Amendment Bill either by overriding Mr President’s veto or deleting areas of complaints. The meeting advised that the option of sustaining Mr President’s veto would lead to a quicker resolution and would deny Mr President the opportunity to once again truncate a reformed Electoral jurisprudence for Nigeria. An early concluded Electoral Act is vital for credible elections.
  3. The meeting lamented the continued state of insecurity in the country, the persistent and ceaseless flow of Nigerians’ blood on a daily basis in many parts of Nigeria, the near collapse of the security situation in Nigeria. The strategies to confront terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and other criminals is still a major problem of the APC administration.
  4. The meeting expressed regrets that Mr President is unwilling, from his recent comments discountenancing the proposals for state policing, to participate in reviewing the structural problems of tackling insecurity in Nigeria and urges Mr President to reconsider his position and consider decentralisation and restructuring of the security architecture as the most viable solution, together with proper arming, funding and training requirements for Security Agencies.
  5. The Nigerian Economy has continued to deteriorate and Nigerians have become numb and accustomed to bad economic news as exemplified by the inconsistent and differential exchange rate regime, high interest rates, unsustainable unemployment figures and borrowing spree some of which have not been applied to important projects, and other bad economic indicators. In particular, it is clear that the APC Government is a massive failure when compared with the records of PDP in government. The PDP handed over a $550 billion economy (the largest in Africa), but under APC, Nigeria is the Poverty Capital of the world. In 2015, under PDP, the exchange rate was N198 per Dollar, it is now under APC almost N500 to a Dollar; In 2015, unemployment rate was 7.3% under PDP, it is now 33%, one of the highest in the world under APC; In 2015, the Pump price of Petroleum was N87 per litre, it is now N165 per litre and climbing under APC. Debt Servicing now under APC takes over 98% of the Federal budget. The tales of woe is endless.
  6. The PDP Governors noted that the management of our Oil and Gas resources, the administration of Federation Account remittances have remained opaque, confusing and non – transparent. In addition, the transition to NNPC Ltd under the Petroleum Industry Act has not been properly streamlined to ensure that the interests of all the tiers of Government are protected, consistent with the 1999 Constitution.
  7. The meeting urged eligible Nigerians of all walks of life, particularly the Youths, to register en masse with INEC to exercise their franchise in the 2023 general elections. It further noted that the next election is a very consequential election that should be used to end the dominance of very youth unfriendly APC Government; a government that had the arrogance to deny Nigerian youths of the use of TWITTER, a business friendly tool for the young, for over a year. The youths should empower themselves to determine who leads them.
  8. The PDP Governors congratulated the Chief Host, His Excellency, Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, for the very high standards of hosting and for the great leadership performance he has entrenched in Rivers State.
  9. The PDP Governors wished Nigerians and PDP Members a happy new Year.

In attendance are:
Rt. Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, CFR- Sokoto State – Chairman
Gov. Udom Emmanuel – Akwa Ibom State – Member
Gov. Sen. Douye Diri – Bayelsa State – Member
Gov. Samuel Ortom -Benue State -Member
Gov. Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa – Delta State – Member
Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi – Enugu State – Member
Gov. Nyesom Wike, CON – Rivers State – Member
Gov. Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde – Oyo State – Member
Gov. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri -Adamawa State -Member
Gov. Bala Mohammed -Bauchi State – Member

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Prof. Ekoko, Former Education Commissioner For Burial Feb 12

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Michael EKOKORUWE:

The remains of Prof. Abednego Ekoko, former Delta State Commissioner for Education and one time Sole Administrator of the Delta State University, Abraka, will be laid to rest on Saturday, 12th February, 2022 at his country home, Uzere, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.

According to a statement signed by the first son, Edafe Ekoko and Buless Ekoko for the Families, the late renowned educationist and administrator who was aged 79 will be buried after a funeral service at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church Uzere by 10.00am, while the entertainment of guests after interment will take place at the Uzere Grammar School playground.

The statement also disclosed that before the burial of the elder stateman and politician, other activities have been lined up to spice the passage rites beginning with a symposium/tributes session on Wednesday, 9th February, 2022 at the Faculty of Arts, Site 3, Delta State University, Abraka by 10am.

On Friday, 11thFebruary, 2022, a service of songs and night of tributes will be held in honour of the departed Professor of Military history at his residence, Oturo Quarter in Uzere, Isoko South Local government area starting from 4.00pm.

The statement added that after the interment on Saturday, a thanksgiving and outing service will also hold on Sunday 13th February 2022 at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Uzere.

The late Professor Ekoko who held the titles of Odio-Igho and Oketa of Uzere Kingdom until his death on 6th November 2021, was the Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Boundary Matters and also among the 8 Member Governing Council set up by Governor Okowa last year to oversee the newly established State Universities at Anwai, Agbor and Ozoro.

Professor Abednego Ekoko, one time lecturer at the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) Kaduna is survived by a wife, six children, a sister and several relations including Edafe Ekoko, Chief Agric Officer, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources Oleh, Engr. Ujerekre Ekoko, Senior Lecturer, Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku and Barr. (Mrs.) Eruvie Esezobo, a USA based attorney.

The other children are Mrs. Erobor Omonode and Miss Erumena Ekoko (both staff of UNIBEN) and lastly Miss Aghogho Ekoko.

Apart from his Academic, Administrative and political prowess, the late professor Abednego, also a boundary expert will be fondly remembered for his deep love for native Christian music which he usually sang with his alto voice at every given opportunity.

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The Time Has Come To Choose Wisely

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The Time Has Come To Choose Wisely

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By
Senator Kashim SHETTIMA:

Being a keynote address at Support Group Conference, organised by Support Groups Management Council (SGMC), in honour of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at International Conference Centre, Abuja, on January 17, 2022.

I stand here today honoured by the burden of expectations upon me and, more tellingly, strengthened by the convictions of the patriots with us in this journey to make history. We are brought together by a forest of ideas, but what defines us and sets us apart from other political groups is this collective realisation that the future of this country rests on the choice of a unifying leader; a leader who panders to neither ethnic nor religious agenda, and one who isn’t bound by toxic regional solidarity and yet known for a track record of outstanding leadership. If you look round this country in search of such a noble character, the count easily falls on the subject of this gathering: Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

So much has been said about this political enigma and most of them by hacks with a poor sense of history. The path that led us to Asiwaju didn’t happen by chance. His propensity for sacrificing his comfort to save our democracy has been duly documented across time. When uncertainty loomed over the country during the military era, this was the man who disbursed his resources to fight for the return to this democracy. Even in exile, he provided sanctuaries for fleeing patriots who are still around to testify to his large heart. Our younger compatriots must be in the know of Tinubu’s memories from two decades past—when he was a backbone of the opposition and fiercely antagonized and politically ostracised by the then ruling party, the People’s Democratic Party. He even built the economic foundations of the modern Lagos State at the time the State was isolated by a vindictive federal government.

While Tinubu’s political contemporaries were trading their principles for a place at the table in Abuja during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s era, and throwing their political allies under the bus, he took the risk to build a political alternative to the ruling party and his choices of candidates underlined his political credentials. He became, and has remained, a dependable sanctuary of victims of political witch-hunts. In 2007, he offered his political structure to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to run for President under the Action Congress (AC) banner. Four years later, he made this structure available for Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and this foresight of the Jagaban Borgu would also set the tone of the 2015 general elections. His place as a fulcrum of the All Progressives Congress re-asserted his essence, and we all owe him a debt of gratitude and deserved loyalty for prioritizing principles over personal gains.

Asiwaju’s choices and endorsements of northerners as presidential candidates while others were masterminding ethno-regional solidarity and fuelling socio-cultural affinities readily affirm his pan-Nigerian profile. Where others see divisions to exploit, he sees collaborations. Where others chase an easy route to power, he reminds you of Geoffrey Chaucer’s immortal wisdom—that patience is a conquering virtue. And it’s this patience that has brought us together today, to remember the examples he’s set and the debt we owe him.

The mudslinging that has trailed Asiwaju since his presidential bid took the top spot in the country is a mere acknowledgment of his political track record and inimitable influence on our political scene. The attempts at weaving ridiculous fiction to override the history we’ve all witnessed demonstrate the detractors’ utter desperation and cowardice. One of such is the mischievous fixation on his age and the wild conclusions that he’s physically unsuitable for the Office of the President. This obsession characterizes the thinking of those who have no understanding of Asiwaju’s incredible work ethic.

A few days ago, I joined him on a trip to Zamfara state to condole with the people and identify with their realities, and the experience made a nonsense of the propaganda that he’s unfit to run Nigeria. On the eve of the trip, Asiwaju had retired at 6 am, after Subhi prayers, and was already awake and attending to guests by 11 am. We departed for Sokoto around 2 pm and had to traverse the menacing hinterland of that part of the North-West for seven hours from Sokoto to Gusau—where he made a generous donation of N50 million as he had in other places struck by tragedies—and then back to Sokoto. On returning to Abuja by midnight, his schedule was entirely a series of meetings that kept him up till 3 am. Now, excuse my curiosity, how many of us here can match or endure such a demanding schedule? Asiwaju’s alacrity, therefore, has never been a subject of scepticism for those who’ve worked with him, and even his critics are aware of this. If he were half the man in their tales by moonlight, they would’ve long succeeded in subduing him.

The mark of true leadership isn’t the ability to lift a bag of cement. It’s the mental effort to think rationally of solutions designed to redeem one’s people and territorial jurisdiction. This was why leaders like Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States of America, stood out. Roosevelt took power in a country wrecked by the Great Depression of the 1930s and guided its economy through the Second World War, and the quality of his thoughts and ideas made the United States a superpower under his watch. Similarly, the accident that had Kenya’s Mwai Kibaki confined to a wheelchair didn’t disable his ability to produce sound ideas, and Kenyans were sold on his virtue that they chose him as their President over what some would consider a fitter option.

I’m not asking you to tone down critical assessments of your future leaders, but redirect you to see the bigger picture. We are not here to prepare for the Olympics, but an institution that relies on the superiority of ideas to thrive. Asiwaju’s credentials aren’t only appealing, they are proof of the qualities this country needs to redeem its vast potentials and possibilities. We are here to testify to this power of ideas—one that overturned the fortunes of Lagos state and sustained its supremacy as the largest economy in Sub-Saharan Africa and kept the opposition alive when it was more profitable to sell out. Those who seek to make us go low hope to present the presidency as a brick-laying exercise. But that’s the work of a machine created by an idea, and who else to guide us towards manufacturing the best ideas to redeem this country?

To derail us at this point is a futile ambition. The conversations we are prepared for aren’t pedestrian obsessions with the mundane, but comparisons of ideas and track records of service to the nation. At the top of our expectations from Nigeria’s next president should be mastery of the dynamics of the modern economy, testified leadership skills and competence, and, very significantly, sensitivity to the complexities of Nigerian sociology. Pause to reflect on the man we are here to celebrate, and what you see is a tested, accomplished, and large-hearted leader who’s invested his resources in building an extensive network of political mentees who’ve risen to the peak of their career.

But in politics, of course, the camps with nothing to sell always choose the mud. We are not going to take the bait. We are going to keep them talking and busy with irrefutable records of Asiwaju’s suitability to lead this country to the promised land. I’m not saying it’s going to be easy, for those who’ve been in the system for long understand that some character’s loyalty has a thing in common with a chameleon. What we promise, however, is to make sure that all Nigerians are presented with a side of the Jagaban Bornu other than the fiction and half-truths from political desperadoes clinging to the rigging of a sinking ship. This is why we are here—to build and mobilise a network of believers and volunteers at the grassroots to help us deliver the Nigeria of our dream.

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2023: IBORI, OKOWA NOT ‘FIGHTING DIRTY’ OVER ANYBODY

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE attention of the Movement for Stronger Delta, MSD, has been drawn to a recent publication by a pan-Delta online platform, titled: “DELTA 2023: Okowa, Ibori Fight Dirty Over Successor”, and posted on several social media groups and portals on Sunday, January 16, 2021.

As a conscious and proactive Movement, determined and committed to ensuring a stronger, peaceful, and united Delta, in the run-up to the 2023 elections and beyond, it behoves us to set a few records straight, concerning this publication, as our own way of educating and informing Deltans with accurate, verifiable information on the true position of affairs and also protecting ourselves from misleading misinformation that is capable of heating up the polity and instigating unnecessary and avoidable conflicts, provocations and conflagrations in the State.

  1. The original story was first published with the title: “DELTA 2023: Okowa, Ibori face up on successor…•Gov takes charge but counter-attack looms”, written by Emma Amaize, Regional Editor, South-South and Published in Saturday Vanguard, January 15, 2022.
  2. The online publication in question, copied THE STORY verbatim, and then proceeded, for reasons best known to the publisher, to change the headline from the original, without informing the readers or even acknowledging the source and author of the original story; and this, from every professional standpoint, is a crass and brazen display of unethical journalism, bordering on plagiarism. Journalists must be cautioned to avoid sensationalism and inaccurate reportage intended to deliberately mislead the people, especially when they copy stories from other more seasoned and recognized mainstream publications.
  3. There is a fundamental headline difference between: “Face up” in the original story and “Fight Dirty” in the copied online version, which every journalist worth his salt, especially those knowledgeable enough in the basic use of the English language, which is the major tool and instrument of the profession, should know and apply in their proper contexts.
  4. For the avoidance of doubt and for the purposes of educating the Journalist against future ignorances: “FACE UP: means ‘To confront or deal directly with someone or something previously avoided”, while “FIGHT DIRTY: means, ‘To use every possible way and especially the most treacherous way, to beat someone in a fight’
  5. Translations. “Face Up” literally means ‘to accept the reality that a difficult situation exists and to confront the situation directly and accept responsibility, blame, for whatever outcome emerges.
    “Fight Dirty” on the other hand literally means ‘to use the worst ways, and not playing by the rules or fighting without honour, to achieve a result.
  6. In other words, it is already common knowledge in Delta State, that the succession process in the State PDP, with its intrigues and entrenched Interests, is likely going to become a difficult situation if it is not properly guided and managed. This, however, is quite a common occurrence in the political landscape especially when elections approach.
  7. Both Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Chief James Ibori, as astute, progressive, and well-experienced leaders of the Delta PDP, understand the situation perfectly and having achieved many successes, both individually and for the party in numerous political battles over the years, have ‘faced up’ to the reality of the situation and pledged, as the original story confirms, to allow the process unfold in accordance with the rules. They have accepted as leaders, to show example, by ‘playing by the rules’ and not ‘fighting dirty’ by any stretch of imagination, so one wonders where the publisher of the online Portal got the information that compelled the change in the title of the original piece.
  8. It is important at this juncture to state unequivocally that Comrade Emma Amaize is a highly respected and much-decorated, multiple award-winning, national, and globally recognized veteran journalist, who has brought great acceptability and prominence to the profession. His credibility is impregnable. He takes no prisoners, kowtows to no interests, and his reports and analysis are grounded, corroborated, and substantiated by impeccable, unimpeachable sources. In fact, without any prejudice at all, he can be described as an Institution of reference in Political Journalism and Niger Delta affairs. You can take whatever he has written to the bank and get abundant credit for its veracity.
  9. His story on the Delta 2023 succession process, from its title to its conclusion, is objective, factual, concise, and verifiable. There’s nowhere in the story that he suggested or even hinted that Ibori and Okowa are ‘fighting dirty’. In fact like the thoroughbred professional, with an excellent mastery of the semantics and morphology of the English language, he has chosen the verb ‘Face up’, which is not only apt in the context but also captures and embraces the collective brinkmanship and attendant auxiliary fallouts that have defined the succession process so far. Young and aspiring Journalists, especially in the largely unregulated online space, can learn quite a lot from the writings of Comrade Emma Amaize.
  10. Finally, we want to state categorically once again, that Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Chief James Ibori are not ‘fighting dirty’ over any successor. In fact, the story itself makes that succinctly clear when the writer stated in paragraphs 20 and 21 that: “Thought-provoking, however, is the information corroborated by multiple sources that Governor Okowa had met with the former Governor, Chief James Ibori, to discuss the issue of his successor in 2023.

“Saturday Vanguard learned that Ibori pointed out his favourite candidate (names withheld) to Okowa, but the Governor opposed his choice and voiced his first choice (names also withheld) based on competence. Both men differed but mutually agreed that they would settle the score at the primaries if there was no meeting point before then”.
That, fellow Deltans, ladies and gentlemen, is the true position of things. QED.

Political analysts and commentators, as well as compatriot politicians and colleagues, will confirm that if there is one political leader in the country, who has made playing by the rules a sacrosanct and irrevocable principle in his political lexicon and agenda, then that leader is without doubt Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. His political trajectory is replete with impressive examples of his doggedness to ensure that the right thing is done, always.

He does not Fight Dirty, but prefers to deploy superior strategic, astute, and pragmatic political acumen to achieve victories that cannot be overturned. A fine example is the 2011 Delta North Senatorial Primaries where he even had to engage and fund national television networks from his own pocket, to beam the event live to the entire world and avoid any controversies.

Chief James Ibori, on the other hand, is a veteran of many rigorous, successful and victorious political battles. He has the scars to prove it and it is also on record that he sourced and harnessed the skills and exceptional talents of leading political figures in the State like Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, Senator James Manager, and a host of others, to work in and within his Executive cabinet, when he was Governor of Delta State. That is why today, he is reverentially hailed and addressed as the ‘Godfather’ of Delta politics. He definitely would not “Fight Dirty” with the same people he has worked together with for years. Only the uninformed or downright mischievous cretins would suggest such a nebulous scenario.

As true and responsible party leaders, they have faced up to the challenge(s) which the 2023 succession process may pose. There is no doubt whatsoever that as the situation unravels, both leaders will once again work together with other party leaders, elders, and stakeholders across the three Senatorial zones and the entrenched interest groups and blocks, in rigorous consultations, dynamic negotiations, and harmonious cooperation, to determine and deliver the best man or woman for Delta State in 2023.

That, in clear terms, is the SIMPLE Agenda.

Signed:

Dr. Festus Bomo Patani
National Co-ordinator,
MOVEMENT FOR STRONGER DELTA (MSD)

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A SEASON OF POLITICAL ABLUTIONS

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A SEASON OF POLITICAL ABLUTIONS

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The year preceeding the general election year in Nigeria is always an interesting one. This is the time when political gladiators, both the serious and the pretenders, jostle for space in their political nests while seeking for attention of the electorates across the nation.

But it is equally very easy to identify and separate the serious from the not-too-serious, the grains from the chaff and the pretenders from the determined.

Some of the key ways to identify a pretender, in Nigeria’s type of party politics is the obvious lack of a grassroot political base and the all important and the much needed financial war-chest to prosecute their visions.

In Nigeria, those who thinks that winning elections is based on eloquence, oratory and polemics often found out that grammar and the use of the Queens English language, does not confuse nor endear the speaker to the average pauperised Nigerian citizen that is ready to vote anymore.

The days of Zikism, laden with sugar coated speeches are over. And so are the days of those who often do not prepare but yet, insist on contesting elections just to fulfill “the clarion call of the people”

Any aspirant that doesn’t have a support base with proven positive antecedents of performance, capacity and an identifiable means of livelihood is a pretender.

In this season, we will yet see more of them. Some have become perennial contenders such that they are no longer taking seriously in the scheme of things. Their posters are almost always ready with myriads of phantom associations of hustlers, masquerading as support groups, ready to do their bidding provided there’s cash to throw around.

Let those who wants to genuinely take us to our eldorado come out with all readiness, seriousness and demonstrable capacity to lead without recourse to primordial prejudices of ethnicity and religion that has kept us bound up until now.

  • Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
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Gov Wike’s Accusation: NSCDC Boss Disbands Anti-Vandal Unit in Rivers

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Gov Wike’s Accusation: NSCDC Boss Disbands Anti-Vandal Unit in Rivers

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Our CORRESPONDENT:

The Commandant General of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi has disbanded the anti-vandal unit of Rivers State Command of the Corps following accusation by Governor Nyesom Wike of River State of their aiding and abetting of vandals and illegal bunkerers to carry out their nefarious activities.

A signed statement on Saturday by the spokesman of the Corps, Olusola Odumosu said the CG has received with shock and dismay, the allegations levelled against the anti vandal unit of Rivers State Command of the Corps by the governor wherein the team was accused of aiding and abetting vandals and illegal bunkerers to carry out criminal activities.

He said: “Worried by this disappointing development, the CG has ordered the suspension of head of the anti vandal team and the disbandment of the unit with immediate effect, pending the outcome of an independent enquiry set up to look into the weighty allegations levelled against the unit by the governor.

The CG said that the extant rules and regulations guiding the NSCDC operations and the general ethics of the service requires complete display of total discipline, integrity, incorruptibility, transparency and accountability on the part of every Corps personnel, hence, the reason for this immediate action.

Audi further directed the Acting DCG in charge of investigation and intelligence to summon all the personnel involved to the National Headquarters, Abuja for further investigation to determine the level of involvement and or culpability with a view to dispensing justice appropriately.

He decried the allegations as not being in tandem with his vision for the Corps, stressing that he will not condone any criminal act or act of compromise by any personnel. He emphasized that a thorough investigation would be conducted to ascertain the veracity of the allegation and roles played by the individuals involved and whoever is found guilty would face necessary disciplinary actions and punishment.

He however assured the Governor Wike of getting to the root of the matter without delay, promising more synergy with the state government towards discharging more effective service delivery to the good people of Rivers state. Reiterating further that his administration has come with a renewed vigour to reposition the service in line with global best practices and will not condone any act of sabotage by any personnel no matter how highly or lowly placed.

He said: “The swift action taken by me is to close any identified gaps in our operations and service to the nation, I will not tolerate any act of indiscipline, compromise or sabotage under any guise; our founding fathers have worked so hard to earn good name for the service as a noble organization and I will not allow a few bad eggs to spoil our name, image, our credibility and integrity. We will investigate those fingered in the allegations and deal decisively with them if found guilty to serve as a deterrent to others.”

Audi emphasized that as the lead agency in the protection of critical national asset and infrastructure, the Corps management would beam more searchlight into that area by reorganizing and reconstituting the anti vandal unit with a view to making it more responsive, transparent and accountable to Nigerians.

“Our moral principles are not negotiable; we are going to rejig the unit and fish out those spoiling the name of the Corps, my fight against vandals, illegal oil bunkerers and those stealing our collective wealth and sabotaging our economy is unflinching and we will redoubled our efforts to whittle down this act of sabotage and bring to justice anyone not in tune with our vision and mission for the service,” he said.

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Panic In South-East: Disregard Rumour Of 4 Days Sit-At-Home Protest, Says IPOB

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Panic In South-East: Disregard Rumour Of 4 Days Sit-At-Home Protest, Says IPOB

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Sunny A. DAVID:

The Indigenous People of Biafra has allayed fears that there will be four days sit-at-home protest in the South-East to mark Nnamdi Kanu appearances to court next week.

In a statement by the Media and Publicity Secretary of the secessionist Group, Mr. Emma Powerful, there would be only one sit at home observance on 18th of January in the area.

The Group said the decision to observe only one stay-at-home for its Leader was in order not to compound the pains of the people of the area.

Before, the statement, there were panic buying in most markets in the area following social media reports that there would be a four-day sit-at-home protest in the South-East next week from Monday to Thursday.

The IPOB statement said, “Following our Leader’s upcoming court proceedings on the 18th, 19th and 20th of January 2022 next week, we wish to remind Biafrans that there will be only sit -at-home on 18th of January, and not 19th and 20th of January. In keeping with our avowed solidarity with our Leader, the entire Biafra land will be on lock down only on January 18 for obvious reasons.

“Biafrans should understand that 19th January is the judgment day in the suit by our Leader against the Federal Government which is pending before an Umuahia High Court. So, there will be no sit-at-home on that day.

“Again, we don’t want to compound the pains of our people, hence, we will limit the sit-at-home to only January 18. Biafrans and residents of Biafra are free to go about their businesses without molestations on 19th and 20th January. 

“Anybody found enforcing non-existent Monday sit-at-home on 17th, 19th and 20th is criminal and must treat as such, IPOB Leadership have given order and that order is what signed.

“Everybody must be careful because this waves that is coming will consume many and every principal of IPOB mostly the coordinators must know that it will bounce on their heads if they don’t checkmate the activities of members and call them to order. IPOB is not village or social club where everybody will behave untoward to people like cultists.

“It is on the table and to the knowledge of IPOB leadership how some principal officers were encouraging evils in IPOB without minding the repercussions and consequences but we want to make categorically known to them that it will come back to him or her that encouraged evil against his or her fellow human beings

IPOB added, “For clarity sake, we reiterate that there will be no sit-at-home on January 19th and 20th. Nobody is expected to interfere with either human or vehicular movements in those days under any guise. Any detractor or agent of darkness caught obstructing peoples activities in Biafra land on January 19th and 20th in the name of enforcing sit-at-home will regret his or her actions.

“We realise that some unscrupulous and traitors are trying to create confusion about these days and dishing false information and propaganda trying to create confusion in Biafra land. IPOB never declared sit at home on 19th and 20th of January 2022. Therefore, we want all Biafrans to go to their normal business on these days without fear.

“Anybody issuing order for sit-at-home on 19th and 20th of January is not a member of IPOB. Such persons are working against the interest of our leader and the entire struggle for independence. They should be disregarded.

“For the umpteenth time, IPOB is under one Central command and Control , and doesn’t have parallel or factional leadership. The Directorate of State (DOS) under the command of our leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is in charge of the global movement of IPOB.Anybody who is not loyal to DOS is an impostor and should be disregarded.

“We expect our people everywhere to adhere to this directive and refuse to be misled by sacked members of IPOB in Europe and America. IPOB remains unshakeable, built and rooted on the rock and will remain so until the freedom for Biafra is fully achieved.”

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FG Inaugurates ICT Centre in Ilesa

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)- From Minister of Interior CORRESPONDENT:

The Federal Government on Friday said it will continue to equip students and citizens with ICT skills such as machine learning and artificial intelligence and facilitate ICT adoption in teaching and learning in order to prepare them for the future that will be strictly driven by technology.

The pledge was made at the Commissioning of the Digital Nigeria Centre (DNC) by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola in Ilesa, Osun State.

The Minister, who represented President Muhammadu Buhari at the event which held at Ijesa Muslim Grammar School, Ilesa, said: “I am aware that the programme was conceptualized to promote the availability and utilisation of ICT and resources of the Internet in teaching and learning in public schools in underserved, unserved and rural areas. In order words, this Digital Nigeria Centre has been designed to promote the connection of public secondary schools to broadband internet in Ilesa community, and the goal is to equip beneficiaries with 21st Century skills.”

He added that: “More concretely, the specific objectives of Digital Nigeria Centre include; increasing ICT literacy among school teachers and students, providing a platform for accessing online educational resources, equiping students with ICT skills, facilitating ICT adoption in teaching and learning and ultimately to increase pass rate in mathematics, English language and other science subjects,” the Minister stated.

In his speech titled, ‘Digital Skills and Literacy for Jobs and Social Inclusion’, the Minister described the thorough and timely execution of the project as significant and commendable, noting that it prepares Nigerians in advance with digital skill and literacy for a future that will soon be driven strictly by technology, saying some major auto makers have decided to stop the production of combustion engines in the next 18 years.

  • Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, representing President Muhammadu Buhari Commissions New Digital Nigeria Centre (DNC ) at Ijesa Muslim Grammar School on Friday in Osun State.

“Interestingly, at least six major automakers, including Ford, Mercedes Benz, General Motors and Volvo joined the governments of 30 countries in November last year to pledge to stop the production and sales of internal combustion engine cars by 2040.”

He further said: “The implication is that even a mechanic should be ICT compliant. Any mechanic that can’t use ICT tools will find himself out of job. Indeed, in the next 20 years, anyone not ICT compliant may not be part of humanity again, considering that it will be impossible to function and interact with other humans.”

The Minister, while noting that the project is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to deploying technology to better the citizens’ quality of life and experience, noted that It also goes to emphasise the preeminent role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for improving standards of living as a people.

He said: “I will like to express my profound gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for his relentless commitment in ensuring delivery of gains of democratic order to the generality of Nigerians.

“To him, the welfare of Nigerians, especially our teaming youths remains a top priority for this administration. The continuous benefits the country has been deriving from effectively leveraging ICT to run governance more efficiently has been phenomenal,” the Minister remarked.

The minister said according to a 2018 report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), titled: Digital Skills Critical for Jobs and Social Inclusion, major technology breakthroughs in next 10 years will impact forms of work and the structure of labour markets as well as other aspects of life such as education, health, and agriculture.

He noted that: “From a skills development perspective, the implications of technological change are expected to be profound, both for the re-skilling and up-skilling of our adults and for the education of the youth and children.

“In this context, developing capacities for anticipating the changing needs for digital skills for work and life is crucial for all countries and that should be of interest to all of us.”

In his remarks, the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, who was represented by the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Communication Commission, Prof. Adeolu Akande, stated that the DNC centre will no doubt help in fast-tracking the acquisition of digital skills required for the implementation of the digital economy drive of the Federal Government especially to the younger generation.

Pantami added that the digital skills which are a range of abilities and aptitudes required by users of digital devices, communication applications, and networks to access and manage information will also in-turn boost National Security and enhance National Growth and Progress.

Osun State Governor, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola represented at the event by his Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Babatunde Olawale said that Nigeria cannot be left behind by the digital revolution of the world noting that his administration also focuses on building a sustainable economy through e-government and his government is grateful to the Federal Government for siting the DNC project in Osun.

Earlier, the Principal, Ijesa Muslim Grammar School, Mrs. Ramota Ilesanmi, thanked the President Muhammadu Buhari-led FG for the project, that it will go a long way in meeting the ICT needs of students and residents of the city.

The representative of the president subsequently announced the establishment of President Muhammadu Buhari N100 million Technology Fund for Empowerment to create world class technology experts, targeting 2000 youths in the next two years in Ijesaland who will be provided with devices for training in different areas such as software development and design, amongst others.

The Digital Nigeria Centre (DNC) is a project facilitated through the Universal Service Provision Fund of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) under the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.

In attendance were, the Senator Representing Osun West, Sen. Adelere Oriolowo; Speaker of the State of Osun House of Assembly, Represented by Hon. Wale Adedoyin, Federal Commissioner of the Nigeria Population Commission, Sen. Mudashiru Hussein representing Osun State.

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No Police Officers Abducted By Boko Haram, Says Borno CP

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No Police Officers Abducted By Boko Haram, Says Borno CP

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)-From North East CORRESPONDENT:

The Borno State Commissioner of Police, Abdul Umar has said no mobile police officers was abducted by Boko Haram during an attack on Police Mobile Training College, Gwoza.

The police chief, who admitted that there was attack on the college, said the insurgents were successfully repelled by policemen.

Umar, while addressing a press conference in Maiduguri on Friday labeled the published report as fake news, noting that: “The attention of the Borno State Police Command has been drawn to a news making round on Social Media, alleging that undisclosed number of PMF personnel were abducted at the Police Mobile Training College, Gwoza.

“The Command wishes to categorically debunk the news, consider it as “fake news” and also to inform the general public that the insurgents, who attacked the PMF training college on the 13th January, 2022 at about 2022hrs were successfully repelled by our gallant officers and men.”

He said: “The police did not record a single casuality nor loss of fire arms and no casuality on the part of the Police was recorded.”

Umar added that: “On this note, I am using this medium to call the attention of the general public to disregard any misleading information that may likely cause panic and disturb the peace of innocent citizens who are roaming endlessly in search of a greener pasture, and to assure them of our commitment, focus and determination toward bringing an end to the insurgency and other crimes and criminality in Borno State.”

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Borno Signs N11.5 billion Contract for Construction of Roads in Maiduguri

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-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Borno State Government has signed a contract of about N11.5 billion with the Eighteenth Engineering Company (EEC) and Obtuse Tech Engineering Company limited for the construction and dualization of major roads within Maiduguri Metropolis.

The road projects which are to be executed within the next 12 months will also have two bridges and drainage with specifications and guidelines approved in the contract signing.

Speaking during the contract signing ceremony in Maiduguri on Friday, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Works, Engineer Ali Goni Lawan, said the construction would effectively be monitored and evaluation by relevant government officials without compromise.

Lawan, who now oversees the ministry following the redeployment of the former Commissioner, Architect Yerima Saleh to Ministry of Environment, speaking during the official signing of the contract between Borno State Government and the two road construction firms, said, the first slot of the road projects is the 5.3 kilometers combined dualization with drainages and two bridges at Ahmadu Bello Way to link Bama road, Shehu Sanda Kura road at the cemetery junction linking the Elkanemi Roundabout through to Elkanemi Bridge, down to Lagos junction, Bolori Roundabout to Mogoram Junction down to Lafiya road and was awarded to EEC at the cost of N8.8 billion.

The second slot he noted, is the 8.2 kilometers road construction, consisting of Baga road market- Jajeri – Umarari- Bulabulin with another one linking Texaco- Churchkime – Abdu One road at the total cost of N2.8 billion and was awarded to Obtuse Tech Engineering Company limited.

Lawan while recalling that in September 2021, a tender/bid documents in respect to the projects were advertised in some national dailies, after which, companies were invited for the bid, added that EEC and Obtuse Tech Engineering Company won and considered to execute the projects, said: “Today is a great day not only to people in the ministry, but the entire citizens of Borno state as we witness the signing of roads construction contracts that are very vital to open up the metropolis.

“These projects were approved by our committed and patriotic governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum.

“The first batch of the roads contract were given to EEC and to be signed by its Project Engineer, Mr. Li Chao Qi on behalf of the company, these roads include; dualization of Ahmadu Bello Way to Bama road junction, Shehu Sanda Kura road, Monday Market Roundabout, Elkanemi Roundabout and Mogoram to Lafiya road at the total cost of N8,76,304,408.18.

The second road project of 8.2km consists of Baga road market- Jajeri – Umarari- Bulabulin with another one linking Texaco- Churchkime – Abdu One road at the total cost of N2,812,405,577.48. It was awarded to Obtuse Tech Engineering Company and will be signed by its representative, Engineer Umar Lawan Sheriff.”

He added that: “These roads as I said earlier are very vital, and we urge our contractors to do a good job and complete it within the time frame of 12 months.

“I want to sound a strong warning to the contractors to stick to specifications and guidelines as any one who violate such will be sanctioned.

“I want to also inform you that our Engineers from the Ministry will always be on site to offer professional advice(s) as the need be and you should cooperate with our men on sites to ensure good job.” The Permanent Secretary stated.

Responding on behalf of the two contracting firms, the Project Engineer of EEC, Mr. Li Chao Qi thanked Borno State Government for considering worthy to execute the road projects and assured that they will do everything possible to meet specifications and complete the work within the time frame.

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Twitter Ban Lift: Reps Minority Caucus Says FG Has No Right To Regulate Freedom Of Opinion

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Twitter Ban Lift: Reps Minority Caucus Says FG Has No Right To Regulate Freedom Of Opinion

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Editor’s DESK:

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has condemned in strong terms the declaration by the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government of Nigeria of having lifted the ban on the use of Twitter in Nigeria, affirming that the ban in the first place was unconstitutional

The Caucus described the “declaration” as a further demonstration of the Federal Government’s appetite to suppress constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens in Nigeria.

According to a Statement on Friday by the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, the caucus held that freedom of speech and opinion by Nigerians, including expressing such through social media tools like Twitter, are clearly guaranteed in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and cannot be subjected to partisan approval or regulation under a democratic rule.

“That is why at the wake of the ban on the use of Twitter in Nigeria in June 2021, the Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives forcefully condemned the decision as provocative, obnoxious and unjustifiable clampdown on the rights of Nigerians which also showed the APC government’s intolerance and aversion to the views, opinions and aspirations of Nigerian citizens, especially the youths, on matters of state.

“It was also in the light of that that the Minority Caucus in the National Assembly stood by the law and charged Nigerians to continue using Twitter irrespective of the unconstitutional ban, since they would not be contravening any known law in Nigeria or any international statutes.

“Our caucus holds that the declaration of a lift on the ban on Twitter amounts to regulatory approval on freedom of speech, which is completely unknown to our laws. The APC government should rather be apologizing to Nigerians for infringing on their rights as well as for the huge economic losses recorded as a result of the ban,” the Minority Reps stated in the Statement.

The Caucus therefore, insisted that instead of seeking to suppress free speech in Nigeria, the APC government should be open to the views of Nigerians and make adjustments for the good of the nation.

While commending Nigerians for their resilience, innovations and resistance to suppression by the APC government, the Minority Caucus assured that they will never relent in fighting for the rights of the people at all times.

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STEP Graduands In Electrical Installation, Solar Works Get Starter Packs *As Beneficiaries Hail Delta Govt

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-UTEH:

Graduands trained in Electrical Installation and Solar works in the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) have received starter packs to begin their businesses in Electrical Installation and Solar Works.

At the handing out of the starter packs which took place yesterday Thursday January 13, 2022, the Programme Co-ordinator (STEP), Mr. Onyeisi Nkenchor, admonished the graduands to maintain personal discipline with special reference to the three keys to success learnt during the Entrepreneurship and Business Management Training (EBMT) such as “respect yourself,” “advise yourself” and “discipline yourself.”

On documentation, he advised them to give details of their home addresses and business locations so that they could be tracked to their homes and business premises to engender mentorship and monitoring of their businesses.

While congratulating the beneficiaries for the successful completion of the programme, he urged them to put into practice the knowledge acquired during the training. He stressed that the skills learned were not for formality but to make them better persons and great entrepreneurs.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Ebakivie Oboraire, (Ughelli South Local Government Area) said she was unemployed for 12 years before her successful enrolment into the STEP programme in the 2020/2021 Cycle.

She expressed gratitude to God and the State Government for giving her the privilege to be trained and established with starter packs, saying that STEP programme has helped her to achieve her long age dream of training in electrical works.

“Governor Okowa through STEP gave me the opportunity to learn the skill of my passion because my choice course of study was Electrical Engineering, but was admitted to study Urban and Regional Planning. Electrical Installation and Solar works is lucrative, from installation, maintenance, assembling to installation of solar power. They are all rewarding.
“Now, I will no longer depend on my husband one hundred percent. I will have to support him to make our progress faster,” she enthused.

Also, Emeka Uzor, (Ika North East) an orphan and an OND holder expressed gratitude to the State Government for the opportunity. According to him, “With my starter pack, I shall start up a mini business. With the proceeds, I shall sponsor myself through HND and support my siblings too.”

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Delta House Of Assembly Aspirant Fidel Onwodi Promises Excellent Representation

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Delta House Of Assembly Aspirant Fidel Onwodi Promises Excellent Representation

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Editor’s DESK:

Ahead of the 2023 general elections, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Engr. Fidel Eweniwe Onwodi, has declared to represent Aniocha North State Constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly. He said he has the competence for the job.

According to the Brunel University, West London trained Engineer, “Aniocha North needs more in terms of social amenities. Many of our youths are jobless. We need a better representative in the State for them”.

Speaking with Online Journalist on Thursday in Asaba, Onwodi said having been opportune to work with multinational companies; he knows what project delivery was all about.

While adding that he would deliver quality representation, being a grassroots politician, who has the interest of his people at heart, Onwodi said he has studied the environment and knows what his people need.

The former Exxon Mobil and Shell International staff noted that he was competent, willing and ready to serve as the case may be.

He said that being a thorough-bred politician with over two decades of experience in the private sector, he has what it takes to attract development to his constituency.

He said: “In the private sector, all I eat and drink is project so when elected I will explore every opportunity available to ensure my people get what belongs to them in the area of qualitative project delivery, qualitative and affordable education, youths and sports development, as well as women empowerment.

“All I need do is to work directly with the executive to attract meaningful projects to Aniocha North Local Government Area,” he noted.

While pledging to be responsible and loyal to all, irrespective of status or age, Onwodi said he would not assume office and forget his party leaders or abandon his constituents.

He added: “Our primary responsibility has always been to give adequate representation to our people and better interaction; even though we are there to make laws that will bring about the enhancements of the socio-economic well-being of our people, as well as carry out appropriation and oversight of the same funds appropriated for the executives and the system.”

Onwodi, who expressed worries over jobless youths, said when elected, he would attract foreign investors to invest in the vast arable lands in Aniocha North so as to engage the unemployed youths while women would be empowered in all necessary areas including transportation, good roads to farmlands.

While disclosing that he had earlier declared for the Assembly seat in his Ward 5 Issele-Mkpitime /Issele-Asagba Federal Ward, Engr. Fidel Onwodi who is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FEON Engineering Nigeria Limited, Lagos, stated that the PDP remains a party with the interest of the people at heart at every point in time.

Engineer Onwodi who spent about two decades with Multi-National companies including Shell and Exxon Mobil, is a native of Issele Mkpitime in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State.

Born in Lagos in May 1974, and started his primary school education there until at the age of 10 years when his dad fell to the painful claws of death and just as life was about to turn upside down, God turned his pain and sorrows to gain and laughter.

Engr. Fidel Onwodi returned with his mum and siblings to the village from Lagos, where he finished his final year in primary school at Enuofu Primary School, Issele-Mkpitime, Aniocha North and further gained admission to Okalete Comprehensive Secondary School, Issele-Mkpitime but he was only able to complete his first year of secondary school before moving back to Lagos to join his mum. During these 2 years in the village, he was always top of his class and received several awards as best overall student.

Upon returning to Lagos, Fidel was admitted into Iponri Estate High School, Surulere and was class captain throughout his stay in the school, where he obtained his Senior School Certificate Examination.

He gained admission into Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue, where he studied Civil Engineering and obtained his Bachelors in Engineering in Civil Engineering.

During his undergraduate program he completed his Industrial Training as Civil Engineer at Eleme Petrochemicals Company Limited (NNPC) Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Upon graduation from the University, Fidel participated in the National Youth Service Scheme and worked for Exxon-Mobil, Qua Ibo Terminal, Akwa Ibom State as a graduate Project Engineer.

Afterwards, he was employed by Sea Petroleum and Gas Company and worked as Project Engineer for three years and quickly rose up the ladder to become the Technical Assistant to the CEO.

Despite his lucrative career, Fidel desired to equip himself with the right capacity development and studies to face the challenges of his profession that he decided to further his education overseas and he gained admission into Brunel University, West London where he graduated with his M.Sc in Engineering Management.

Light shone upon Fidel once again and he was gainfully employed in London by Shell International as a Project Engineer and rose to Senior Project Engineer. His international job with Shell for ten years took him to work in the USA, Holland, Aberdeen and Nigeria.

Fidel was directly involved in the project delivery of some offshore installations including but not limited to the Bonga Oil and Gas Project.

Engineer Fidel Onwodi, resigned from his lucrative employment in Shell in 2014 to serve his people, and offered himself to run for the House of Representatives position with the People’s Democratic Party, PDP where party dynamics and supremacy prevailed, but that did not deter his aspiration to be of service to his people.

Fidel Onwodi is the MD/CEO of FEON Engineering Ltd, based in Lagos, London and Hong Kong.

He is also the MD/CEO of Duke Marine Services Ltd, based in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Houston.

Fidel is a certified Project Management Professional from the Project Management Institute in the USA. He is also a COREN Certified Civil Engineer and a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

Fidel remains a faithful and loyal member of the PDP till date and he is a strong grass roots politician and always enthusiastic to listen to the yearnings of the people and solve their problems as a result, he Founded the FIDEL ONWODI FOUNDATION (Kosisochukwu) that supports the less privileged in the grass root.

He has sponsored several football competitions and empowered numerous widows in his local Government Area.

He is happily married with two beautiful daughters and a handsome son.

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Omicron Ban: FG Calls for Lifting of Travel Restrictions on Nigerians

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-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -From Foreign Affairs correspondent:

The Federal Government has meant with the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the country, Ambassador Faisal bin Ebraheem Al-Ghamdi to discuss the recent restrictions placed on Nigerians intending to visit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia following the outbreak of the Omicron Variant of COVID 19 across the globe.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada who met the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria on the issue, appealed to the Saudi Authority to as a matter of urgency review the travel restrictions its placed on Nigerians over the Omicron outbreak as already done by many countries who have earlier banned Nigeria but have since reversed their stands having studied the achievements of Nigeria so far in the fight against the Omicron Variant and the Coronavirus pandemic in general.

Dada said that although Nigeria understood fully that the reason for the ban by Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was for the best interest of its citizens, but however stressed that the steps taken so far by Nigeria Authorities to curtail the spread of the Omicron Variant have made its possible for many countries to considered Nigeria as safe and removed it from the blacklist countries.

He commended the cordial relationship that existed for years and continue to exist between the two countries.

While expressing optimism for a timely response on Nigeria’s request from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Minister also pledged to continue to give every necessary support and cooperation to the Ambassador in the discharge of his responsibility.

The Saudi Arabian Ambassador while responding to Nigeria’s request for the lifting of the travel ban, expressed satisfaction with the effort the government is making to contain the spread of Omicron and promised to convey Nigeria’s message to the relant Authorities back home in Saudi Arabia

He said just like in Nigeria where there are bodies in charge of monitoring and the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, Saudi Arabia also has similar agencies that are responsible for monitoring and recommendations on the issues of corona.

Al-Ghamdi thanked the Minister for his commitment to improved bilateral relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

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NSCDC Engages 5,000 Graduates Since 2019 Rcruitment Exercise

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NSCDC Engages 5,000 Graduates Since 2019 Rcruitment Exercise

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, (NSCDC), on Thursday announced that 5,000 people are to be engaged in the next few days.

The 5,000 candidates are part of the 1,477,033 graduate applicants which commenced the recruitment exercise started in October 2019

Secretary of the Board of Civil Defence, Corrections, Fire and Immigration, (CDCFIB), Hajiya Aisha Rufa’i, made this known at a media briefing organized by the NSCDC and the board, in Abuja.

She said the applicants who took part in the last Computer Based Test, (CBT), are to log into the recruitment portal of the board, CDCFIB, to access a coded job offer letter alongside basic information such as the date they can come for documentation and accreditation.

She however said that those that were not successful will not be able to access the recruitment portal as the system has been set to lock them out automatically.

Rufa’i said: “I want to assure Nigerians that the recruitment process was not stopped because there has been a lot of anxiety over whether the recruitment would at all take place or not. It was stalled because of reasons beyond our control one of which everybody knows that it is the COVID which cause lot of other issues that had triple effect on many other areas of the process.

“However, after the process of shortlisting of 6,500 applicants (during the CBT), whose certificates were verified and physically screened, 5,000 were shortlisted as successful. This is the stage that we are and the accreditation of the 5,000 successful applicants are going to start from today so our notice.”

Rufa’I also said that “the board of civil defence, corrections, fire and immigration service is hereby asking applicants’, those 5,000 that are successful, to please visit the same site that they applied through, to check if their names are their or if they have letters of invitation.

“The site is cdcfib.careers, they know the site because they used it to apply. Their checking will start from Monday, 17th of January 22. For accreditation, we are now giving 72 hours for this to reach the public then the actual accreditation will start on January 31st 2022.”

She said the moment those that are successful access the portal, it will open for them to receive their job offer letters but for the 1,500 that were not successful out of the 6,500, they will not be able to access the portal “so don’t panic.

If you are successful, the portal will open and you will see a letter addressed to you. Another point to note is that each letter will carry individual information and will specify the date you are coming for accreditation.”

Commandant-General of the Corps, Dr. Ahmed Audi, also said the exercise was done through a transparent process and the media briefing is to update Nigerians of the current situation and the completion of the last process and stage of the recruitment selection.

The CG said when the portal was first open on October 2019 for recruitment, 1,477,033 applied and then in December 2020, 53,116 responded for the interview after a selection process .This number were later invited for a computer based test organised in conjunction with the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, (JAMB).

“After the CBT, 6,500 applicants were shortlisted for screening and certificate verification out of which. This is the process, now the process has been concluded.”

He further revealed that the training for the new recruits will start at the end of the documentation and verification which will start on January 31.

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Aisha Buhari, APC to Host Progressive Women’s Conference

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Aisha Buhari, APC to Host Progressive Women’s Conference

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -PRESS RELEASE:

The First Lady of Nigeria, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, is set to host the first-ever National Progressive Women’s Conference in Abuja during which several topics including gender inclusiveness in politics and greater role for women in governance will be discussed.

In a statement by Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman, Media and Publicity Committee, APC National Women’s Conference, 2022, said the Conference has “One Voice Uniting for Progress” as its theme.

The conference is being spearheaded by the All Progressives Congress (APC) through Hon. Stella Erhuvwu Okotete, member of its Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) – Women Representative

The First Lady of Nigeria, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, will deliver the keynote address. The Vice President of Liberia, Chief Dr. Jewel Howard-Taylor will share her experience as a top government functionary with participants at the Conference, which will be attended by more than 1,000 women drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

The Conference, which is scheduled to hold on the 18th and19th of January 2022, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, will brainstorm on ways to strengthen women political rights, address barriers to women participation in the political process under democratic systems and evolve strategies for getting them fully involved.

More than 200 leaders from the three tiers of government in the country and some prominent business women and captains of industry have confirmed participation in the Conference.

They will make presentations focused on inspiring and propeling women to greater successful forays into politics, governance and leadership roles in busineses.

Signed
Hon. Abike Dabiri Erewa
Chairman, Media & Publicity Committee
APC National Women’s Conference, 2022

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FG, WFP to Scale-up School Feeding Programme

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FG, WFP to Scale-up School Feeding Programme

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The Federal Government and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) are working at scaling up the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP).

A statement on Tuesday by the WFP read in part that: “As schools reopen in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development (FMHADMSD) with technical support from the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) announces, it will be taking to the next level, the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP), launched by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2016. This decision results from a joint assessment conducted in the first quarter of 2021 to identify ways of improving, scaling-up and sustaining the NHGSFP.”

The Home Grown School Feeding initiatives promote nutrition education and better eating habits and encourage the diversification of production with a special emphasis on local crops, and WFP is backing the next stage with a significant transfer of ICT equipment, which includes tablets with access to the PLUS Schools Menus – a free tool to help state Nutrition Officers design nutritious menus for schools.

According to the statement, the hardware will not only support the Ministry’s efforts to digitalize its monitoring and evaluation system, but also enable the national roll out of the PLUS School Menu Tool developed by WFP to standardize cost-effective menu development.

The statement revealed that by 2021, this breakthrough initiative served school meals to over 9 million students in 53,000 public primary schools, making it one of the largest school feeding programmes in Africa, and has also led to a significant increase in school enrollment across the country and has provided a much-needed boost to local economies by buying the products of smallholder farmers and providing jobs to more than 107,000 cooks from low-income families.

The statement explained that schools provide local farmers with a predictable outlet for their products, leading to a stable income, more investments and higher productivity, and the children enjoying healthy, diversified food; this makes it more likely that they will stay in school, perform better, and improve their adult job prospects.

The statement said: “In line with one of the key pillars for sustaining the NHGSFP, several partnerships have been realised across various relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies of the Government, which have truly strengthened the collaboration and cooperation for a more effective service delivery. Key partners include the National Youth Service Corp, Ministries of Agriculture, of Education, Information, Trade and Industry, Water Resources amongst others.”

Speaking on the programme, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Farouq said: “The NHGSFP remains an important intervention of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari. Through it hunger, malnutrition, poverty, education can all be addressed. It is an investment that is fully funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria because of its sheer potential as a development driver.

“We at the FMHADMSD are here to ensure that this programme is strengthened and sustained so that it can continue to support the needs of the children, families, women and communities it targets. The technical support from the World Food Programme is therefore timely, relevant and well appreciated.”

On his part, WFP Country Director, Ronald Sibanda, said: “One of the best ways of fighting hunger and preventing malnutrition among children is to provide them with a healthy school meal. Nigeria is a good example of where the Government has taken the lead from day one and invested resources and funding into the design and implementation of its National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme. This is a great initiative and WFP is very pleased to provide technical support for the Government of Nigeria.”

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Bashorun Askia Expresses Satisfaction Over Ongoing DESOPADEC Tower Project

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Bashorun Askia Expresses Satisfaction Over Ongoing DESOPADEC Tower Project

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -By Albert OGRAKA:

MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, has expressed satisfaction over the ongoing construction work at the ultra-modern DESOPADEC tower project in Warri.

He made the commendation on Monday, January 10, 2022 during a working visit to the project site, where he lauded the efforts of the contractor.

* Ongoing project…

Bashroun Askia assured Deltans that “before the end of my tenure, with God on our side, all DESOPADEC projects will be completed.”

The office building christened DESOPADEC Towers is located within the Warri-Sapele road head office of the agency.

The start off fund for the star project, which had received the approval of the state Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, was the proceeds of a dedicated account from absentee staff as revealed by the biometric data capture and is essentially designed to address the problem of office accommodation for staff of the commission.

Recall that the Managing Director of the board, Baahorun Askia Ogieh, had performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the office building complex to commemorate the one year anniversary of the current board.

* Groundbreaking…

According to a dependable source, the project concept, from architectural design to structural engineering and ancillary requirements, was done by the in-house technical team of the commission.

The DESOPADEC MD was accompanied on the project inspection by the Executive Director Finance and Administration, Olorogun John Nani; the Executive Director, Projects, Barr. Daniel Mayuku, the Executive Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Dr. Shedrack Agediga and other Management staff.

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Akpodoro: Ex-‘Warlord’ Or Vicious Busybody Ethnic Jingoist, Mischief-Maker

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Akpodoro: Ex-‘Warlord’ Or Vicious Busybody Ethnic Jingoist, Mischief-Maker

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

It has become necessary for the Movement for Stronger Delta (MSD) to intervene again by calling attention to another devious, stage-managed, vicious outing also directed at the person of His Excellency, Senator (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, Governor of Delta State, and this time by a self-styled warlord; a certain fellow called A. Eshanekpe Israel, also said to be nicknamed Akpodoro.

An online medium quoted the so-called warlord, in a story headlined: “Urhobo Ex-Militant Leader Advises Okowa To Emulate Ibori On Equitable Development”, as saying in “a statement issued by the former warlord in Abuja, Tuesday, stressing the need for Governor Okowa to spread development equitably to all parts of the state.”

It is not difficult for us at MSD and indeed all other right-thinking observers, to see through the dishonesty in the intentions and motives of this attention seeker, which he vividly encapsulated in his sneaky statement to spite the person of Governor Okowa and bring him on a collision course with the amiable and respected former Governor and foremost PDP leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori.

What the nosy parker will never come to terms with, because of his somewhat shadowy precedents, is that both administrations have different challenges peculiar to each and both leaders as they have different management styles, apparently fashioned and honed by the existential vicissitudes and complexities that defined their political trajectory.

Therefore, for a man whose IQ and world view devolves from the prism of ‘warlord moniker’, how does one even begin to educate the seemingly expurgated mercenary about the intricacies and challenges that governors face in their respective tenures?

The loquacious fellow misfired big time when speaking like an opposition party agent and he lied when he disingenuously advised Governor Okowa “to spread development equitably to all parts of the state.”

Indeed, this is the point that blew the lid off the malicious intention of this wily “warlord”, because Deltans are well aware of the uncommon commitment of their Governor towards the even spread of development projects across the 25 local governments of the state and each of the three senatorial districts.

The evidences abound and are verifiable by persons with unadulterated motives and not one with a biography of prejudiced violence and an apparent desire to vent analogous harm on the person of Governor Okowa to please his paymasters.

Akpodoro’s so-called press release is an erroneous appearance based on deception to create a false impression of animosity between Chief Ibori and Governor Okowa. Unfortunately for him, he does not know, or perhaps he was too young to know that Ibori and Okowa have come a long way in politics; a relationship that culminated in Chief Ibori becoming governor and Okowa serving in many portfolios as commissioner at different times in that administration.

Who will tell this inventor of something that does not correspond with the known or observable facts, that Ibori and Okowa have consistently and committedly worked together to achieve the current brand that PDP enjoys in Delta State and which, translated in simple parlance means: Delta is PDP and PDP is Delta?

Who will tell him that it is this spirit of love and commitment to the PDP that did not make PDP an orphan in the days that Chief Ibori was in-situ, because of the capable lieutenants like Senator Okowa, among numerous others, that kept the Delta PDP family intact and formidable enough to fence off all oppositions.

MSD believes that Akpodoro has just made himself a laughing stock with his savage, rancorous, brutal, spiteful and sadistic press statement.

It is uncharitable for this ethnic jingoist and “warlord,” whose importance is uncertain, to seek to bring in ethnic sentiment in the matter of a political party whose existence has collapsed and transcended all ethnic coloration.

It is an open secret that Governor Okowa has operated based on the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria (as amended), and has committedly followed the statutes of the PDP, as well as fulfilling the Beijing affirmative action for women in appointments.

There’s no government anywhere in Nigeria today, that has recognized women and honoured them with appointments the way Governor Okowa has done. Check out the local governments, it’s only in Delta PDP and most admirably in the administration of Governor Okowa, that women have emerged in a large number as Vice Chairmen in the local Councils, with at least no fewer than three women as councilors in several LGAs.

We ask the ethnic apologist Akpodoro: “How many women vice chairmen in Delta Central are of Okowa’s Ika extraction?” This is the height of mischief-making and crying wolf where there’s none.

Let’s admonish Akpodoro and his ilk that PDP in Delta State will, in the fullness of time, resolve issues through its well-structured political resolution system that has kept the party in the state united, strong and all conquering.

We also urge Akpodoro to leave our good-natured leader, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, out of his frustrations BECAUSE Delta State is in safe hands and the Okowa administration is building solidly on the Ibori legacies to achieve and deliver a #Stronger Delta for all Deltans going forward.

That indeed, is The SIMPLE Agenda.

MSD

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KACRAN Says Ortom’s Promotion of Miyetti Allah as Terrorist Group Baseless, Unsubstantiated

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN), one of the umbrella bodies for cattle rearers in the country, has described as baseless and unsubstantiated reasons positioned by Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom seeking the enlistment of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria in the nation’s terrorist list.

The group in a statement on Monday by it’s National President, Khalil Bello, said: “Our attention was painfully drawn by most sorrowful and highly embarrassing unsubstantiated claims/appeal made by Benue State Governor, His Excellency, Samuel Ortom, that, the President should include two of the Herders Associations that were known by all meaning Nigerians for doing their best in assisting our security operative towards maintenance of peace and unity in our great country that is: Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore and Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria but be amongst the terrorist organisations in the country.”

He added that: “The most humilaitive and so much embarrassing aspect of governor Ortom’s unsubstantiated claim or baseless reasons for inclusion of the aforementioned Herders Associations amongst the nation’s terrorists organisations was the fact that, the two Associations have failed to end the ongoing crisses associated with Herders in the country; it is as if they are the ones who are governing Benue State and Nigeria at large.

“Another weakness of Ortom’s baseless claim is the fact that, he has completely forgotten or intentionally refused to remember that, the total responsibility of maintaining peace in the country, is not in our well cherished constitution vested on any Association in the country but rather on our ruling constituted authorities, who’s number one, constitutional, paramount responsibility is the protection of lives and properties of all Nigerians regardless of their tribe, religion or political affiliation.”

He said Ortom has failed to understand or was not intimated/acquainted by his aid that, if truth is to be said or justice will be done in Nigeria, “if there is any need to add the number of terrorist organisation of governments in the country, his State, Benue, must be the one to be added in the said black list.”

Bello said in KACRAN we sincerely believe that, if Government’s failure to maintain peace and security in its state will be justly used as a yardstick to identify terrorists group in Nigeria, “Benue State Governor and his surrogates must be Short listed amongst the terrorist in government in the country because it is an open secret known to all people that, Ortom’s Government and his cabal have woefully failed to perform the most simplest responsibilities they are expected to carry out, going by our constitutional requirement of protecting the lives snd properties of its poor citizens and despite the enormous resources vested in its hand on monthly basis for the maintenance of the aforementioned very important function of governance; the performances of which led to the establishment of Government not only in Nigeria but in the world over.”

He said: “In view of the above undeniable reasons, coupled with the fact that, Governor Ortom was the first governor in the whole country who single handedly and myopically initiated and wrongly negated the provision of our written, rigid constitution, by mistakingly introducing the most controversial Anti Open Grazing law in the country; the introduction of which paved way for creating avoidable misunderstanding between Benue State Farmers and their beloved Herders who were brothers and partners in progress since the time immemorial, that is before the painful appearance of the incapacitated governor Ortom. We now call on Federal Government, as a matter of justice and fair play, to as a matter of balancing the equation, kindly include the Governor Ortom’s cabinet members list amongst the terrorists opportunists, who by coincidence having to be in the helm of leadership, but ended up in becoming the vision less, who do not know how to Unit their subjects and perform excellently in their act of governance.”

He asked Ortom, to emulate the good example of Plateau state governor, Simon Lalong, who has brought to an end the intermittent tribal and religious crisis in the state through exemplary leadership qualities.

He however commended Ohaneze Ndi Igbo for its resolute and bold action they have timely and convincingly taken in debunking the IPOB’s, misleading and highly mischievous new year’s Press Statement, during which they illegally gave few months ultimatum for the forceful stoppage of meat delivery from the Northern part of the country to the southern states..”

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Zulum Signs N269.6 Billion Budget, Child Protection Act Into Law

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has signed into law, the 2022 budget of N269.6 billion passed by the State Assembly.

The Governor also signed two laws: Borno State Child Protection Act, and Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act.

The signing took place on Monday at the Council Chamber of the Government House in Maiduguri, and it was attended by the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, AbdulKarim Lawan, and principal officer of the Assembly.

The Governor while expressing appreciation to the House for their continued support, said this has immensely contributed to the successes recorded by his administration in the last two and half years. He also assured of the continued sustenance of cordial relationship with the lawmakers throughout his tenure.

The budget was increased by the Assembly from the N267.9 billion proposed by Governor Zulum in November.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor said the Child Protection Act, and Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act he signed were customized to reflect cultures and religious beliefs of the State, without undermining the main objective of the law.

Speaker of Borno State Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan explained that the slight increase of the budget was to meet needs of the State, which aligns with vision of all branches of Government.

The Governor had on November 30, 2021, proposed a budget of N267.9 billion with N172.5 billion for Capital Expenditure representing 65% of the total budget, and N95.4 billion for Recurrent Expenditure.

On his part, the State’s Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Barr. Kaka Shehu Lawan commended the Governor for singing into law the Borno State Child Protection Act, and Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act.

Introducing the event, Commissioner of Home Affairs, Information and Culture, Babakura Abba-Jato gave a run down of achievements recorded by the Zulum administration.

Meanwhile, the governor has told members of the State’s Executive Council that he will not be entertaining any request that is not captured in the signed 2022 budget.

He said: “I am speaking to the members of the State Executive Council. The Commissioners should note that I will not take it lightly if anyone submits requests for projects and programmes that are not captured in the year 2022 budget. If you send any request to me that is outside the budget, I will outrightly reject such request.”

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Zulum Always Offer Logistics Support Without Prompt, Says GOC

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum is said to have offered logistics and other support to the Nigerian Army in the ongoing war against Boko Haram insurgents without been asked by the military authorities.

The acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Abdulwahab Eyitayo made the assertion on Sunday, while adding that this has gone a long way in enhancing the military operation in the Northeast.

Eyitayo, while speaking during Zulum’s visit to the headquarters of the 7th Division of the Nigerian Army in Maiduguri during a social gathering organized by the army to celebrate the acting GOC’s recent promotion to the rank of a Major General.

Zulum, who was at the event as part of his usual support to the military operating in Borno State, was praised by Eyitayo, saying: “Severally without being prompted, you (Governor Zulum) come to our aide to support us (the army) even logistics wise. Through your persistence and unrelenting cooperation and assistance, you (Governor Zulum) have one way or the other, turned the spirit of the soldiers into fighting machines.”

The GOC requested Zulum to convey the gratitude of his officers to President Muhammadu Buhari and the Chief of Army Staff for identifying and promoting deserving soldiers involved with the fight against Boko Haram in Borno State, which he indicated, was highly encouraging.

Zulum, in his response, congratulated the acting GOC and other recently promoted military officers, saying the people of Borno share the good moment and are happy with it

Zulum said officers and personnel of the military and other security establishment deserve to be supported and encouraged. He described their duties as tough ones, hence the need for not only support by states, for increase in their entitlements, when the economy permits such considerations by the Federal Government.

The Governor credited his administration’s numerous efforts to the peace-building role of the military, which he said, has led to the safe resettlement of about 18 communities across Borno.

Zulum said with continued peace-building, more communities will be safely resettled, while some major roads, such as Maiduguri-Damboa road would be opened for the safe use of motorists.

Zulum was accompanied to the function by commissioners of Agriculture, Engr Bukar Talba, and sports and youths empowernment. Sainna Buba and that of transport Abubakar Tijjani.

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Nigeria’s Long-Term Vision, Demonstrates Commitment To Paris Agreement Implementation – FG

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Nigeria’s Long-Term Vision, Demonstrates Commitment To Paris Agreement Implementation – FG

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

The Federal Government at the weekend said Nigeria’s 2050 Long-Term Low Emission Vision document is a demonstration of the nation’s commitment to play a leading role in the implementation of the Paris Agreement.

Minister of State for the Environment, Chief Sharon Ikeazor, made this assertion sequel to the formal publication of Nigeria’s Long-Term Vision (LTV) document by the Secretariat of the United Nation’s Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Ikeazor described the document as an important landmark for the actualisation of Nigeria’s quest for mitigating the negative effects of climate change and a road path to meeting its decarbonation targets.”

She said: “I am happy that the LTV document has been published by the UNFCCC and I wish to express our appreciation to the 2050 Pathways that funded the Vision and all the stakeholders that contributed to the Vision,” while recalling that a key part of the Paris Agreement was the invitation to parties “to formulate and communicate by 2020 long term low greenhouse gas emission development strategies.”

Ikeazor explained that the 2050 Long-Term Vision for Nigeria (LTV 2050) is the initial step towards the development of the Long-Term Strategies (LTS) which explore options to lower GHG emissions and contribute to the objective of reaching net-zero GHG emissions globally around the middle of the century.

He explained that: “It provides a clear sense of direction for a well-managed transition to a low-carbon economy that grows existing and new sectors and creates new jobs and economic opportunities for the nation.

“The LTV communicates the vision that by 2050, Nigeria is a country of low-carbon, climate-resilient, high-growth circular economy that reduces its current level of emissions by 50% and moves towards having net-zero emissions in the second half of the century across all sectors of its development in a gender-responsive manner.”

According to the Minister, the next step now is the development of the Long-Term Low Emission Development Strategy (LT-LEDS) which will develop scenarios and models that helps to translate the vision document into quantified emission reduction targets together with technology options and costs implications.

She said: “I am looking forward to the development of the LTS to compliment Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan and provide options for meeting decarbonization target as announced by President Muhammadu Buhari at COP 26 in Glasgow.”

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Haba!!! NDLEA Arrests 76 Yrs Old Grandpa For Selling “Indian Hemp” *As Marwa Lauds Delta, Edo, Enugu Airport, Niger, Ogun, Kwara, Plateau, Rivers, Ondo, Benue Commands

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Haba!!! NDLEA Arrests 76 Yrs Old Grandpa For Selling “Indian Hemp” *As Marwa Lauds Delta, Edo, Enugu Airport, Niger, Ogun, Kwara, Plateau, Rivers, Ondo, Benue Commands

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd), has commended the officers and men of Edo, Enugu Airport, Niger, Ogun, Kwara, Plateau, Rivers, Ondo, Benue and Delta Commands as well as those of the Directorate of Operation and General Investigations, DOGI.

The commendation, according to the spokesman of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi is for starting the new year with a strong message to drug cartels that the agency will not relent in its determination and efforts against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo state have arrested a 76-year-old grandfather for selling cannabis popularly called Indian hemp or Igbo.

Also in the same state trading is a suspected fake security agent, who was also arrested for importing drugged chocolates and cookies from Canada into Nigeria to sell.

A statement on Sunday by the spokesman of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi said the septuagenarian popularly called old soldier was arrested last Friday in Egor, Oredo area of the state for dealing in cannabis while Godwin was nabbed during a controlled delivery of a consignment shipped into Nigeria through a courier company.

He said soon after Godwin signed for the consignment, undercover operatives embedded in the courier firm arrested him at his apartment in Benin city last Tuesday.

According to Babafemi, the consignment, which emanated from Canada, contained Colorado brand of cannabis concealed inside chocolates and cookies weighing 6.5 kilogrammes, while the drug cookies and chocolates weighed 5.6 kilogrammes and 0.4 kilogramme respectively.

Babafemi said in a related development, a 48-year-old passenger of Ethiopian airline that arrived Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, from Sao Paulo, Brazil via Addis Ababa, Ethiopia was on new year eve arrested and placed on observation during which he confessed to have swallowed 58 pellets of cocaine out of which he excreted 48 pellets which were delivered to a Kenyan while on transit in Addis Ababa for a fee of N1million.

He said he continued his journey to Nigeria with the remaining 10 pellets in his stomach, which according to him, he intended to sell in Lagos. The wraps of cocaine were later excreted at 10:40am on New Year day.

Babafemi disclosed that in Niger State, 23-year-old 500 level student of the Department of Agric Economics and Extension, Federal University of Technology, Minna was arrested at Gidan Kwano Talba road, Minna with different quantities of Loud and Tramadol last Thursday, while a 21-year-old lady, was arrested in Benue state, with 14 pinches of crack cocaine at Jada Hotel, Otukpo last Friday. She was said to have traveled from Abuja to sell the drug in Benue.

Babafemi said a raid in Jigbele Lota camp in Owo area of Ondo state led to the recovery of 598 kilogrammes cannabis and arrest last Thursday, while in Ogun State, two suspects were arrested in Itaka and Odo Eran areas of Abeokuta North local government area with different quantities of cannabis sativa, just as another duo were nabbed with 81 kilogrammes cannabis along Ilorin-Jebba expressway last Tuesday.

In Plateau State, three siblings were arrested last Thursday at Kwakwi village, Riyom LGA with different quantities of cannabis and a locally made pistol.

Babafemi also disclosed that at least, two suspects were arrested in different parts of Rivers state with quantities of methamphetamine; heroin; cannabis sativa and cocaine as well as N364,500 cash last Thursday.

In Delta state, NDLEA operatives supported by soldiers last Wednesday raided a warehouse in Abbi town, Ndokwa West local government area, where two variants of cannabis; Loud and skunk weighing 56.5 kilogrammes believed to be imported from a neighbouring country as well as seizure and arrest of two suspects.

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Elumelu Empowers Two Youths With Complete Musical Instruments Worth N7m

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Editor’s DESK:

In his avid resolve to ensure engagement of Youths in gainful endeavors, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu has empowered two youths, talented in music, with complete musical instruments.

The Youths, Udeh Vincent Ifeanyi and Oseh Samuel Odiogor are musicians from Onicha-Uku in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State who were in dire need of the very instruments presented to them by the Minority Leader to move their callings forward.

Chief Nkem Okwuofu, Chairman of the State Civil Service Commission, Saturday January 7, 2022, on behalf of Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, presented the sets of musical instruments, worth seven million Naira (#7, 000,000) to the beneficiaries, in a brief, but impressive ceremony held at Onicha- Uku.

Instruments handed over to the two young musicians included; 10 pieces of AKLT wired microphones, 2 Sets of Yahama Drum Set, 4 pieces of Senhenzxer Wireless Microphones, 4 pieces of lead Guitar Strong, 2 pieces of Bass Guitar Strong, 2 pairs of Sub Speaker, 4 pieces of Power Amplifiers, 4 pieces of Yamaha Keyboard/Piano, 3 pairs of Sound Prince Speakers and 2 sets of Power Generators.

Also presented are; 2 pieces of 24 Channel Flax Mixers, 2 pieces of General (Sumec 400E²), 2 rolls of Speaker Wires and 15 pieces of Speaker Plugs.

Presenting the instruments, Chief Okwuofu commended Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu for always doing those things that pleases the people and said that it all started when the Youths paid him a visit last month and requested for his assistance towards acquiring the musical instruments.

She said that the Minority leader, having been convinced of their need for the instruments, gave his firm promise.

“He fulfilled his promise to them by procuring all the instruments needed for their musical career and today, am privileged to hand over the brand new equipment to them on his behalf,” Chief Okwuofu said.

Okwuofu described Elumelu who represents Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, as a pride to Delta State, saying that she identifies with him because of his humility and good deeds for the betterment, not only for the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, but for Deltans and Nigerians in general.

While admonishing the beneficiaries to put the musical instrument into good use for their own benefit and to the glory of God, the renowned Political Leader, urged the youths in the Federal Constituency not to relent in their prayers for Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu and the State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, saying that their prayers and support are needed for them to continue to do more for the people.

Speaking on behalf of the Youths of Onicha-Uku, the Community Youth leader, Mr. Adu Akaduchieme Michael commended Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu for his kind gesture and said, though, Elumelu is known for such good gestures, the youth of the community are marveled and appreciates greatly the empowerment of the talented youths with expensive and up to date musical instruments that would be of immense assistance to the furthering of their chosen field of Endeavors.

The two beneficiaries, Udeh Vincent Ifeanyi and Oseh Samuel Odiogor, who were visibly elated, expressed their joy and appreciation to the Minority leader and said that what they thought was a joke has come out to be a great source of establishing and settling them in their field of endervour.

While commending Chief Nkem Okwuofu for her motherly role in the whole scenario, the beneficiaries promised to put the instruments into good use for their own betterment, that of their families and the society at large, even as they pledged to uphold Rt. Hon.  Ndudi Elumelu and the State Governor in prayers at all times.

Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Project Monitoring, Hon. Charles Ogedi, Legislative Aide to the Minority Leader, Ms. Bridget Modebe, Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Alex Ajumuka, Legislative and the Director General Elumelu Campaign Organisation, Barr. Tony Okiebunor was among personalities at the event.  

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Re-Trending Of Alleged Inappropriate Treatment @ Lagos Airport, Handiwork Of Mischief Makers, Says Acting CGI

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Re-Trending Of Alleged Inappropriate Treatment @ Lagos Airport, Handiwork Of Mischief Makers, Says Acting CGI

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

Acting Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Isah Idris has reacted to a re-trending video of an alleged incident involving an out-bound passenger at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Ikeja, Lagos sometime in August 2017.

Idris, in a statement signed by Assistant Controller of Immigration Service Public Relation Officer, Amos Okpu said he would have ordinarily ignored the re-trending video but for the need to inform unsuspecting members of the public that the re-trending of the video is the handiwork of mischief makers who have been struggling and indeed dissipating their naked energy to portray the current leadership of the Service in bad light.

The Acting CGI was reacting to a video has been trending on social media where a lady claimed she almost missed her flight because of the delayed she experience from Nigeria immigration officers whom she alleged wanted to extort her of money for offence she did not commit.

Reacting to the allegation, Nigeria Immigration Service boss stressed that the said incident was subjected to full investigation by all the agencies at the airport then, adding that during the investigation, so many facilities including the CCTV system were deployed to unravel the veracity of the claims but nothing of such was found.

He stated that it is however, unfortunate, that some persons now find it relevant to embark on a re-trend of an unverifiable incident of 2017 in 2022 for reasons best known to them.

Idris said: “Nevertheless, it is important to state that a new dawn has begun in the Service and great efforts are being directed at enhanced reforms that would reposition the Service to a very responsive and proactive agency fully committed to transparent service delivery. The Service is poised to consistently ensure that it places robust migration facilitation processes and systems across Frontiers to enable visitors have pleasant experiences at our Controls.

“To this effect, the Service has continued to deepen its public engagement exercises to create enriched understanding of its processes and procedures by prospective visitors and the public at large. It has made some considerable progress in its visa reforms efforts and wishes to assure that it will fairly and justly implement the Visa reforms in line with best practice. As one of the strongest tools in modern migration management, Visa remains a conditional approval granted to a migrant by a government allowing the holder to enter, remain, work or to leave a certain territory within a given period of time.

“Consequently, it remains the responsibility of the Service to determine the period of stay to be allowed any visitor into the country. It is therefore, important to stress that there is a difference between the period within which a valid Visa must be presented at any entry Post and the actual period given to the holder by the endorsement Officer at the Border Control. The period stated in a holder’s Passport especially for Visas issued at the Missions is really the period within which the holder is expected to present same at entry Post for assessment by the Border Control Officer. It is not essentially the actual period the holder will be allowed to stay in the country.”

He also assured the public of improved service delivery across service windows, while also calling on them to feel free to constantly insist on quality service from our Immigration personnel, but however
advised that timely and detailed reports of any unprofessional conducts by any personnel be made appropriately for necessary actions.

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NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel Pass Vote of Confidence On Ikeogwu

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NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel Pass Vote of Confidence On Ikeogwu

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –PRESS RELEASE:

Members of Warri Correspondents Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, have passed a vote of implicit confidence on the Chairman, NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, describing him as dogged leader who has creditably manage the affairs of the union.

The vote of confidence on Comrade Ikeogwu is contained in a communique issued at the end of Warri Correspondents Chapel meeting held on Thursday, January 6, 2022, at the Press Centre in Warri, and signed by Comrade Victor Okpomor and Comrade Dele Fasan, Chairman and Secretary respectively.

According to the Communique, “The Chapel notes with particular interest the recent attacks on the person of Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, the NUJ State Council Chairman by some members of the Union with intent to pitch the council chairman against officials of the Delta State Government.”

“The Congress urged members to restrain themselves from acts capable of causing disaffection between officials of the Delta Government and the entire members of the NUJ Delta State Council, rather they should engage themselves in endeavours that will promote unity and cordial relationship among members.”

“The Congress therefore, passed a vote of implicit confidence on the Chairman of the Delta State Council of the NUJ, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu who is a member of the NUJ Warri Correspondents Chapel for his dogged leadership in managing the affairs of the council.”

The congress also passed a vote of confidence on the Delta State Commissioner for information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, as well as the Chief Press Secretary to the Delta State Governor, Mr. Olise Ifeajika for harmonious working relationship with practicing journalists in the State.

The Congress commended His Excellency, Senator, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, the Governor of Delta State, for his efforts at developing the state and charged him not to relent in his determination to finish strong.

According to the communique, “Congress called on the Delta State Government to use the opportunity of the dry season to complete all ongoing projects in Warri, Effurun and environs especially drainage and road projects, as well intervene on failed portions along Airport Road, Effurun Roundabout, 1st Marine Gate, Jakpa Junction, Enerhen Junction, and Ogunu By-Pass.”

“The Congress also called on the Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA) to wake up to its responsibility by ensuring smooth flow of traffic within Warri and it’s environs, particularly, Effurun roundabout Enerhen Junction and Jakpa Junction where traffic gridlock is causing serious pains to motorists and commuters.”

“Conclusively, the Congress further called on political gladiators in Delta to be mindful of their utterances and actions to avoid pitching one ethnic group against the other ahead of the 2023 general elections in the State.”.

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Acting Controller General Of Fire Pledges To Prioritize Staff Welfare

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Acting Controller General Of Fire Pledges To Prioritize Staff Welfare

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) -PRESS RELEASE:

The Acting Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Karebo Pere Samson MIFire.E who held an interactive session on Tuesday with Officers and Men of the Service at the Service’s headquarters promised to make staff welfare number one on his agenda list.

Ag. CGF Karebo who was interacting with Officers and Men of the Service for the first time after his appointment as the Acting Controller General, told the staff of his readiness to work with all staff without favouritism or bias.

Karebo while assuring all staff that he will ensure every staff of the Federal Fire Staff gets what is due him or her warned that indiscipline will not be tolerated from anyone.

He also encouraged firefighters to exhibit love amongst themselves, while making effort to develop themselves and prepare for challenges ahead.
“If I can rise to becoming the Ag. CGF after joining the Service as a Level 3 junior staff, you too can also attain any height in the Service, only be dedicated, committed, dogged and develop your self ” The Ag. CGF said.

The Ag.CGF also assured staff that he will also give attention to sport, as it is key in the continues fitness of all firefighters.

According to him “Henceforth I will make sure that sporting activities, including competitions are given the attention they deserve”

Karebo who Acknowledged that the size of shoe left behind by his predecessor is big, said he will require the support of all Officers and Men of the Service so as to fit into that shoe.

Officers and men who had the opportunity to asked questions and make comments expressed their happiness for the opportunity to interact with the Ag. CGF. They assured him of their support and promised to be diligent in the discharge of their duty .

SF Ugo Huan
PRO, Federal Fire Service.

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Drug War: NDLEA, NSCDC Renew Partnership

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLA:

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have agreed to strengthen existing partnership and synergy between the two agencies in various areas of operations especially in the fight against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

The commitment was the highpoint of a courtesy visit by the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Audi to the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) during his visit to the anti-drug agency’s national headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.

In his remarks, the NSCDC boss said he paid the visit to tap from the knowledge and experience of the NDLEA boss, noting that Marwa has transformed the anti-drug agency within a short time.

He said he seeks synergy and collaboration between the two agencies, adding that he has continued to follow Marwa’s antecedents and achievements in public service since he was still a student.

In his response, the NDLEA Chief Executive commended the NSCDC boss for bringing to bear his experience and intellectual capacity on the work of the Corps.

He said whatever has been achieved in the past year in NDLEA was due largely to the grace of God as well as the commitment of officers and men of the agency.

He said: “We’ll like to bring the problem of drug abuse under control as quickly as possible because of its effects on public health and national security. As such, we’ll like to call for renewed partnership with the Civil Defence so that together we can bring criminalities under control in communities and the country at large.

With your visible physical presence in the grassroots, we’ll work with you in our drug demand and drug supply control efforts.”

Earlier, the leadership of Global Peace Advocacy and Empowerment Initiative led by Ambassador Sadiq Badamasi Ibrahim also visited Marwa during which they sought partnership with NDLEA on their mission to take anti-drug advocacy campaigns across the country.

The global body also conferred on Marwa the 2021 Man of the Year award among other recognitions.

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Bashorun Askia Foundation Distributes Food Items To Aged Across Isoko Nation

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Bashorun Askia Foundation Distributes Food Items To Aged Across Isoko Nation

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Editor’s DESK:

The Bashorun Askia Foundation (BAF) began the distribution of food items such as rice, beans, yams, plantains,etc, to aged women and men across Isoko Nation.

The Founder/Grand Patron of Bashorun Askia Foundation, Bashorun Askia Ogieh who was represented by his wife, Chief (Mrs) Grace Askia Ogieh said, this has been an annual programme of the foundation.

The distribution was flagged off at the Bashorun Askia Civic Center, Uzere. The team will move to Oleh, Irri, Enhwe, Okpolo, Igbide, Umeh, Erowha, Emede Olomoro, Avirara, etc.

Others who joined at the exercise are, PDP Chairman Isoko South LGA, Odio Obaro Godspower, Chief Prosper Edo , PDP Chairman Uzere Ward 04, Amb Immortal Efi , Chief Mrs Josephine Enwenede among others.

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I Never Dreamt I Could Own, Manage Own Biz -Says STEPreneur Awikpen

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-UTEH:

NAME: AWIKPEN ITOHAN EUNICE (2018/2019 CYCLE-BROWN STEP)
LGA: ETHIOPE WEST
ENTERPRISE: HAIRDRESSING, MAKEOVER AND BRAIDING

EUNICE ITOHAN AWIKPEN holds a B.Sc. in Business Education from the Delta State University, Abraka and is the CEO of Eunice-Tee Beauty Villa, Asaba. She is a beautician, a hair-stylist and a trainer.

She was jobless for three years till she enrolled in the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP.) Though three years in business, Eunice-Tee Beauty Villa is everything any beauty-conscious lady would desire in a beauty salon.

She furnished her shop tastefully and stocked it full with beauty products. Her enthusiasm at her job speaks volume as evidence of a rewarding career and satisfaction in the choice she made. She speaks on job creation programme.

“The programme has been helpful, and I acquired lots of knowledge during the OPET, EBMT and from my trainer. The training and the establishment with starter pack equipped me for the life of entrepreneurship. I am adhering strictly to tips on how to manage my business, market my products, retain my clients, and record-keeping.

I never dreamt I could own, manage my own business, expand it, buy more equipment and train others. I have trained fifteen people; four have established. Governor Okowa, through the job creation Office, made it possible. Kudos to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Prof. Eric Eboh and his wonderful team.”

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‘Imo Now War Zone’, Igbo Clerics, Trad Rulers Demand End To Killings *Want Meeting With Governor

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‘Imo Now War Zone’, Igbo Clerics, Trad Rulers Demand End To Killings *Want Meeting With Governor

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLA:

Igbo clerics, monarchs and elders under the aegis of South East Council of Traditional Rulers and Representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops on peace and conflict resolution on Monday decried that Imo state have become a war zone due to the continued spate of violence and killings largely caused by selfish political leaders in the state.

The group particularly condemned the invasion of place of worship by policemen on 26 December 2021, adding that it exposed the long-running troubling state of affairs in the State, which has led to loss of many lives, hundreds of millions of Naira of property, a deterioration of the environment for business and a debilitating poisoning of public culture and trust.

In a statement jointly signed by the Obi Of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe  and Archbishop Chibuzo Opoko, Methodist Archbishop of Umuahia, the group declared that the tensions, violence and failing law and order situation fuelled by  selfish politicians in the state is unacceptable and must be brought to an end.

The group therefore called on all the political leaders in contestations and their followers to cease and desist from all actions that will escalate or compound the situation on the ground in the State.

They also proposed urgent meetings with the Governor, the past Governors, the former Governorship candidates, and elders of the State to scope the problem and proffer a solution.

The statement reads in full:

“The dramatic and condemnable invasion of a place of worship by officers of the Nigeria Police Force on 26 December, 2021 ostensibly to effect the arrest of a former Governorship candidate in Imo State has brought to the public consciousness the long-running troubling state of affairs in the State, which has led to the loss of many lives, hundreds of millions of Naira of property, a deterioration of the environment for business and a debilitating poisoning of public culture and trust.

“Even as we write this statement, a report is breaking of an exchange of gunfire between unknown gunmen and law enforcement officers, which may have left several people dead. Imo has become a war zone and the Igbo nation is appalled that those responsible seem unable to gauge the consequences of their conduct.

“The tensions, violence and failing law and order situation have resulted in a significant number of deaths, including those of traditional rulers, a considerable number of missing persons, and the abduction of scores of youth presumably by law enforcement and non-state actors. Many attribute this to the prevailing political differences in the State. These arrested and kidnapped young men are said to be held in concentration camp conditions.

“This state of affairs in Imo State, blamed largely on a few politicians of the State and their cohorts, constitute an assault on the dignity and well-being of Ndi Imo and the Igbo nation.  It is unacceptable and must be brought to a speedy resolution.

“To pursue one’s political interest to the detriment of the interest of the people that one seeks to serve violates the essence of the Igbo way and good leadership. As such we call on all the gladiators, requesting that they note that the ethos of Ndi Igbo is steeped in ‘egbe belu ugo  ebelu’. We know what fate is cast on the one that does not allow the other to perch.

“We, as the clergy, traditional rulers and elders of conscience of Alaigbo, under the auspices of the Joint Body of the South East Council of Traditional Rulers and the Representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops on Peace and Conflict Resolution (J. B.) are compelled to intervene.

‘First, we urge all the political leaders in contestations and their followers to cease and desist from all actions that will escalate or compound the situation on the ground in the State.

“Next, we ask for an examination of conscience of the actors in Imo State, FCT, Abuja, or elsewhere.
We trust that the Igbo Spirit, which guided our intervention in the run up to the recent Anambra State governorship election and resulted in peaceful and salutary outcomes, will lead the key antagonists in Imo State politics to collaborate with us to help reconstruct the social order in Imo to greater civility.
“
Finally, we propose to immediately commence meetings with the Governor, the past Governors, the former Governorship candidates, and elders of the State to scope the problem and proffer a solution.

May peace and good order reign in Imo State.”

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Marwa Advises Drug Traffickers To Turn New Leaf

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Marwa Advises Drug Traffickers To Turn New Leaf

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –From Mike SOGBOLA:

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Retd) has advised all those still involved in the illicit drug business to turn over a new leaf or risk losing their freedom and assets in the new year.

The anti-drug czar, gave the advice in his new year message, even as he said the NDLEA and its workforce are moving into 2022 “with a resolution to rid the country of illicit substances and to continue our aggressive pursuit of drug cartels, barons and traffickers anywhere they may be within the country or even outside.”

He said: “Given our pedigree in 2021, there should be no doubt whatsoever about our capability to carry out these stated objectives.”

Marwa said: “In the past year, we have scaled up our capability and reinvigorated our anti-narcotic activities. Our efforts have yielded arrests and interdictions. That should be a clear signal to anyone in the drug trade that the rules of the game have changed.

“In 2022, our goals remain the same: to dismantle drug cartels and syndicates, and that include arresting and having drug offenders jailed by the court and ultimately to rid our society of all traces of illicit substances.”

Marwa while leaving an open window of repentance for those still in the illicit business, said “there is still a window of opportunity for drug traffickers and barons: Now is the time for them to turn over a new leaf before NDLEA turn on the heat and they lose it all. Since most of them are in the business to amass wealth and now they have made fortunes from this trade that harms society, therefore, it is time to quit. We call on them to think about the common good, to think about the future of this country, to think about the young and coming generations. Let commonsense prevail and on your own volition make a significant contribution towards the effort to have a drug-free society where peace and harmony reign.

“We have seen the havoc of illicit drugs from the ugly development in parts of our nation due to drug abuse by youths and also from the general blight caused by abuse of cannabis across the country.”

He added that: “Those who heed this warning will thank themselves for taking the wise decision to quit the drug trade in the days ahead. Those who think and act otherwise can be assured of a tough year in 2022. They can take a cue from what happened in 2021, where the agency secured various jail terms for over 1,200 drug traffickers, including nationals of other countries and we brought to book six drug barons, including those outside the country and those who had been on the run for as long as 10 years.”

Marwa, while emphasising Nigeria’s determination to win the drug war, said with the full support of President Muhammadu Buhari, the National Assembly, the Judiciary and the citizenry, NDLEA will leave no stone unturned to fulfill its mandate in 2022.

He said: “In this campaign against drug abuse and trafficking of illicit substances, the agency has the public support 100%. The Presidency is backing NDLEA to the hilt. Lawmakers are giving the agency the necessary leverage. And in the court of law, as proven by recent developments, there is no respite for drug traffickers and barons. Likewise, we have a good rapport with international partners. Hence, those who deal in illicit substances can be certain that NDLEA’s long arms will reach them and they will face severe penalties from the law.”

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New Year 2022: First Lady Showers Gifts On First Baby *Pays N1.36M For Stranded Patients

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – From Editor’s DESK/ With Additional Reports:

Wife of Delta State Governor and founder, 05 initiative, Dame Edith Okowa, has showered gifts on the first baby of the year 2022, Miss Edith Marvin Enyosa.

The First Lady also offered prayers for the star baby who weighed 3.7kg at birth and was born at 12:01 on January 1, 2022 at the Central hospital, Agbor to the family of Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Enyosa.

Dame Okowa, who expressed delight over the safe delivery, welcomed her with songs of praises and appreciated God for keeping everyone alive to see the New Year.

She commended the doctors and nurses who conducted her round the maternity ward to see other children who were born on January 1.

The father of the baby, an editor with the Ika Mirror, Comrade Marvin Enyosa, who hails from Agbor-Obi in Ika South, thanked God for the safe delivery of his third child, saying that the governor’s wife visit is a life time honour to the family.

The mother of the baby, Mrs. Theresa Enyosa, a graduate of Library Science and a fashion designer, also from Ika South, explained that labour started at about 7:30pm the previous day and lasted till January 1, adding that she never knew God had a pleasant surprise for her even as she lauded the Governor’s wife gesture and prayed God to reward her.

Dame Okowa and members of her entourage later presented gifts including cash to the first baby of the year as well as other children delivered January 1 in the hospital.

In a related development, Dame Okowa was also at the Federal Medical Centre, (FMC), Asaba to offset the bills of nine stranded patients worth N1.36 Million.

She also presented gifts and cash to all babies and mothers in the post surgical, postnatal and the labour Ward.

While commending the FMC management for attending to stranded patients before requesting for payment, the governor’s wife urged them to work towards setting up a trust fund scheme where individuals and groups could contribute to save emergency situations.

In response to the gesture of the governor’s wife, the Chief Medical Director of FMC, Dr. Victor Osiatuma said he received the news of Dame Okowa’s visit to pay the bills with joy having welcomed the first baby of year in Agbor, and applauded her philanthropic gesture towards the needy.

One of the beneficiaries, twenty-seven year old Chinelo Emeka, an indigene of Ebonyi state could not control her emotion on seeing the Governor’s wife.

She said her husband abandoned her after she had her baby boy through caesarean session over a week ago and prayed God to reward Dame Okowa and her family.

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INVESTMENT: DIDA Boss Lauds Gov Okowa, As “Keke” Factory Plant Debuts In Delta

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – By Albert OGRAKA:

Chairman of Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA), Mr. Paul Nmah, has commended the State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa for being keen and supportive of various laudable investment projects in the state.

This commendation was made during the formal signing of MoU among the state government, Delta State Investments Development Agency (DIDA), Stallion Group Limited, Ministry of Justice and the landed property leaser respectively, at the office of the Secretary to Delta State Government, Asaba.

Mr. Nmah, however revealed the commencement process and establishment of a tricycle manufacturing plant in Asaba, Delta State capital. “This project will surely boost the economy of the state and enhance employment generation, which is very dear to the Okowa administration.”

He expressed confidence in the readiness and capacity of Stallion Group Limited and thanked the Managing Director, Mr. Manish Rohtagi for the choice to invest in Delta State, adding that “we have been assured of commencement of the project in January 2022.”

Corroborating the time for commencement of operations, the Managing Director Stallion Group, Mr. Manish Rohtagi, said: “I want to reassure you, as I promised you earlier, that the tricycle plant will be up and running in eight weeks from now.”

Also the Director General of DIDA, Olorogun Lucky Oghene-Omoru described it is a rare feat and lauded Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the confidence reposed on DIDA achievements, involving investment marketing where policy, financial and other decisions take place. “Today marks another milestone in the achievements of DIDA. We owe our various successes to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa”, he acclaimed.

The property leaser, Dr. Festus Okubor, while expressing joy, thanked Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for the foresight and subsequent approval, describing the investment as “ambush marketing.”

The SSG, Chief Patrick Ukah, who coordinated the signing process through the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Samuel Diatake, had earlier explained that the ceremony also formalizes agreements between Delta State government and Dr. Okubor for the the transfer of ownership of some acres of land to government for the manufacturing of tricycles.

  • From left front row, Mrs. Rita Ekpemina, Dir. Legal Drafting, Min. of Justice representing the Attorney General/Commissioner of Justice, Hon. Paul Nmah Chairman DIDA, Mr. Manish Rohtagi, Managing Director Stallion Group, Mr. Samuel Diatake PS. SSG Office representing Chief Patrick Ukah SSG, Olorogun Lucky Oghene-Omoru DG DIDA, Dr. Festus Okubor, Mr. Peter Okolie SIA1DIDA, and other DIDA Management Staff during the signing of MoU of the establishment of a tricycle manufacturing plant in Delta State held at Asaba.
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New Year: Reps Minority Caucus Seeks Renewed Optimism *Urges FG To End Borrowings, Engage Innovative Young Nigerians

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New Year: Reps Minority Caucus Seeks Renewed Optimism *Urges FG To End Borrowings, Engage Innovative Young Nigerians

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) – From Editor’s DESK:

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of the New Year, urging them to put behind the gloom of the past and approach year 2022 with greater optimism and faith for a better Nigeria.

The caucus in a Statement by the Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu further charged Nigerians to come into 2022 with thanksgiving to God and reinforced zeal as the year brings them nearer to the end of “the calamitous era of an incompetent, suppressive and anti-people administration in our country.”

They said that the New Year presents Nigerians with the occasion to triumph over all divisive tendencies, overcome all fears and rekindle the bond of unity, love, tolerance, mutual respect and understanding towards one another as they prepare for the task ahead.

More importantly, the Minority caucus counseled the APC-led Federal Government to be remorseful for its failures, use the New Year for deeper introspection, change its corrupt ways and focus on the wellbeing of the people ahead of its exit in 2023.

“The APC administration should take urgent steps to tackle poverty, unemployment, high costs and infrastructural retrogression by growing our productive sector and allowing hard working and creative Nigerians, especially the youths to meaningfully engage, instead of resorting to false performance claims. It should also have a rethink on its borrowing spree and reckless accumulation of debts, which have placed a huge economic burden on our nation.

“Furthermore, the APC-led government should end its lip service and adopt proactive measures to decisively tackle escalated acts of terrorism under its watch. Our citizens have suffered a lot and the New Year should usher in a new lease of life.

“As representatives of the people, the Minority caucus remains unwavering in our insistence on accountability and delivery in all sectors of our national life.

“In that regard, our caucus has set out strategic templates for enactment of critical legislations as well as intensified oversight activities to ensure greater productivity, check corruption, plug all areas of waste and see to it that budgeted resources are used only for the wellbeing of the people and development of our country.

“The Minority caucus remains resolute on issues related to the amendment of the Electoral Act and other matters geared towards credible, free and fair elections that will, in 2023, usher in a government that truly derive from the people and have their wellbeing at heart. In this task, all hands must be on the deck.

“The Minority caucus again congratulates Nigerians and wishes the nation a prosperous, peaceful and more rewarding New Year,” the Minority Caucus stated in the statement.

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