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Nigeria Women Less Corrupt Than Men -Study

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Nigeria Women Less Corrupt Than Men -Study

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA): –

NIGERIAN women are less corrupt than men, a recently released study has shown.

The study was the issue of discussion at a workshop in Abuja on Monday, which brought together for the first time the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and several State Commissioners of Women Affairs with representatives of anti-corruption bodies to review the findings from the gender and corruption study and identify possible policy implications.

The key findings of the study, according to a statement by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), include that woman are consistently less likely than men to pay bribes when coming into contact with public officials, and that female public officials are less likely to take bribes than their male colleagues.

The report also highlighted that, “body currency” (or sextortion) is perceived to be common in Nigeria, but related data remains scarce as victims are reluctant to come forward. Moreover, men were found to be more likely than women to employ bribery or nepotism when seeking public sector employment.

Based on these findings, the study concludes that increased gender equality and women empowerment in the public sector is likely to reinforce governance outcomes.

Cecile Tassin Pelzer, EU Head of Cooperation said: “A greater participation of women in public life is essential to the achievement of equality, sustainable development, peace and democracy. Despite this, women are facing obstacles in their political participation. The ongoing reform process presents Nigeria with a unique opportunity to join the league of progressive nations in promoting gender equality”.

Representative of the Vice President of Nigeria, Maryam Uwais said: “Gender inequality interferes with the women’s ability to advance at all levels of politics and decision-making, thereby obstructing their access to political participation.

Corruption, according to the study, also disrupts efforts to combat different forms of violations, further marginalizing already vulnerable women living in poverty, putting basic public services and goods out of their reach, and leaving them lagging in the economic, social, and political development of their country”.

Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Country Representative said: “Gender must be mainstreamed in all efforts to strengthen measures to prevent and combat corruption. This starts with having more women in leadership and decision-making positions. With only 3.8% of women’s representation in parliament across the state and national level in Nigeria, robust action needs to be taken to redress the declining state of women’s political representation, especially as Nigeria heads into the 2023 elections”.

Representative of the Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Hadiza Zubairu, said: “We have taken the fight against corruption to the grassroot, encouraging all women to stand up for what is right and fight against corruption. We also encourage the women at various levels to acquire skills, the knowledge to contribute to the national effort in the fight against corruption.

Senator Suleiman Abdu Kwari, Chairman Senate Committee on Anticorruption and Financial Crimes (ACFC) said: “Another thorny issue in the quest to be more gender sensitive is the ability for women to gain access to existing complaints mechanisms. For that to happen, we will continue to improve complaints mechanisms to become more gender sensitive.

“I am pleased to inform you that that opportunity to do this exists in a private member bill that I am sponsoring titled, The Public Interest Disclosure and Complaints Commission. This bill broadens the scope of the PCC by expanding its existing mandate”.

Representative of Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, Chairman, Mrs. Blessing Obidegwu said, “Gender inequality has affected our community, family and country as such the commission has developed a framework for women and youth engagement strategy. Through this we engage the public and the political class as well as the media to refrain from using derogatory remarks about women in their reporting”.

Cynthia Mbamalu, Director of Programs/Co-Founder, YIAGA said: “The Gender and Corruption report show that the more women have access to tertiary education, it will make them more self-reliant as well as reduce the tendency for vote-buying”.

The workshop was held to mark the 2021 International Anti-Corruption Day and 16 Days of Activism in Nigeria, with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Technical Unit on Governance and Anticorruption Reforms (TUGAR), UN Women, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, several State Commissioners of Women Affairs, women groups gathered in Abuja to discuss the gender dimensions of anticorruption in Nigeria.

The links between gender equality and anticorruption have become subject of policy debate in recent years cumulating in a commitment by Member States at the 2021 United Nations General Assembly Special Session on Corruption: “We will improve our understanding of the linkages between gender and corruption, including the ways in which corruption can affect women and men differently, and we will continue to promote gender equality and the empowerment of women, including by mainstreaming it in relevant legislation, policy development, research, projects and programmes, as appropriate and in accordance with the fundamental principles of domestic law.” In Nigeria several steps have been taken in order to implement this commitment, including the 2020 Gender and Corruption Study conducted by UNODC of the data emanating from the 2019 and the 2016 National Corruption Surveys.

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NDLEA Launches National Drug Control Mastar Plan

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NDLEA Launches National Drug Control Mastar Plan

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA): –

THE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has launched the (NDCMP) 2021 to 2025 in Abuja.

This was in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

Speaking at the launch of the strategic document, the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brig General Buba Marwa (Retd.), said the five-year national action plan would address the drug problem and its associated consequences in the country.

He said the masterplan, built on four major pillars, addresses the drug issues in a comprehensive, balanced, human rights-focused and gender-responsive manner.

The NDLEA boss, who was represented by the Secretary of the agency, Shadrach Haruna, said there has been three previous blueprints in the past and the NDCMP 2021-2025, the fourth and newest version, is built on the foundation of the three previous editions.

Marwa said: “I wish to start this remark by acknowledging the support of the European Union through the “Response to Drugs and Related Organised Crime in Nigeria” project (NGAV 16) and the UNODC for its enormous support to drug control activities and especially to the development of NDCMP 2021-2025, which is best described as a pragmatic “road map” to achieving our national drug control goals.”

He said: “The NDCMP is a five-year national action plan that addresses the drug problem and its associated consequences. There have been three previous blueprints, namely the inaugural 1999-2004 edition, the second edition covering the period 2008 to 2013, and the 2015–2020 document. NDCMP 2021-2025, the fourth and newest version, is built on the foundation of the three previous editions.

“This fourth edition of the NDCMP―which rests on four strategic pillars of Supply Reduction, Drug Demand Reduction, Access to Controlled Medicines for Medical and Scientific Purposes, Governance and Coordination―addresses the drug issues in a comprehensive, balanced, human rights-focused and gender-responsive manner.”

He added that: “Aside from its functionality, NDCMP 2021-2025 is symbolic of the continuity and advancement in the effort of the Nigerian government to address the evolving drug situation. It is the outcome of two years of coordinated, collaborative and multi-agency efforts comprising experts from all the relevant Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as Civil Society Organisations.

“An effective campaign against the production, trafficking and abuse of illicit substances requires a result-oriented, proactive and all-encompassing Modus Operandi that is consistent with globally acceptable practices and standards. NDCMP 2021-2025 provides the needed fillip concerning strategic direction, effective prioritization of issues, collaboration and inclusiveness of all relevant partners and stakeholders.

“At this juncture, I wish to unequivocally state that I do not doubt that when the mechanisms, methodologies and strategic outlines of NDCMP 2021–2015 are implemented, we would substantially win the war against abuse and trafficking of controlled drugs and illicit substances.”

The anti-narcotics czar said: “Also, with the expected active support and collaboration of all stakeholders, we would, in addition to drastically reducing the drug scourge, also effectively mitigate the harm caused by the abuse and trafficking of illicit drugs. Our ultimate objective is to promote the health, security and wellbeing of all living in Nigeria. This document is our roadmap to achieving those goals. NDCMP 2021-2025 is like a steering wheel for all the drug control campaigns currently going on in the country. The document not only addresses germane issues but also fills the identified gaps in the ongoing responses.

“I also need to say this, that without the consistent backing of the Federal Government and other supportive entities we would not have reached the point where we are today. Therefore, I sincerely wish to express our profound appreciation to His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for the strong support and commitment towards the development of this very important strategic document.”

He said the immense appreciation of the agency goes to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami for his encouragement and dedication at various stages of articulating the NDCMP 2021–2025 and to
the members of the National Assembly, particularly, the Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics as well as the House Committee on Narcotic Drugs.

Marwa said the participation and input of the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) that make up the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Drug Control and other relevant stakeholders are duly acknowledged and applauded.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, who launched the document, said it was central to Nigeria’s approach to tackling the menace of drug abuse.

Malami, who was represented by Mr Biodun Aikhomu, said the present administration is committed to decisively dealing with the problem of drug abuse in the country.

Country Representative of UNODC, Mr Oliver Stolpe, said it hoped that the latest masterplan would have more impact than the past plan.

He expressed confidence in tbe leadership of the NDLEA as well as the agency’s partners in tackling the problem of drug abuse.

The Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Mr Sunday Dare, who was also on hands at the occasion, said the country’s future is imperiled except the growing menace of drug abuse is checked.

He said the launch of the masterplan is of serious significance in the battle against the devastating effects of drug abuse.

On her part, the Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, expressed worry over the growing number of women and girls abusing drugs.

She said it was a dangerous trend that should be halted as the country cannot make any progress except the problem of drugs abuse is addressed.

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FG To Partner with California National Guard To Fight Wildfire

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA): –

THE Federal Government is set to partner with California National Guard to fight wildfire.

A statement on Monday by the Director Press in the Ministry of Interior, Blessing Lere-Adams read in part that: “In her continued effort to control and manage varied wide and huge fire disaster, the Federal Government is to partner with the California National Guard for capacity training and assistance to ensure that it curtails the destruction of lives and properties in our forests and homes when such incidences of wide fire disasters occur.”

She said the Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola disclosed this during the meeting with a delegation from the California National Guard headed by Major-General David Baldwin, Adjutant General and his team on a visit on Monday in Abuja.

Aregbesola stressed that lnterAgency operations of the Federal Fire Service and that of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps is very necessary to protect the nation’s armless fire fighters when they embark on such rescue mission, nothing that: “This will no doubt go a long way protecting them from being attacked during official operations of fire rescue missions.”

The Minister said that before embarking on any rescue mission by our Federal Fire Service officers he expects that the Armed Squad of the NSCDC to first be on ground to clear the way for the fire fighters to ease their rescue operation and to avoid being killed or harmed since they are not armed .

He requested of the National Guard to assist the nation’s Agencies on InterAgency operations to enhance their capabilities to manage wide and huge fire incidences, noting that: “The aim of Humanity is to benefit from people’s experiences and be better prepared towards such occurrences, thereby putting timely necessary remedy in place.”

Aregbesola said he hopes that a team should be arranged to work with the Federal Fire Service officers and the Nigerian Air force crew to develop a skill to do buck planning that will provide tangible solutions and to also provide facilities such as aircraft to deal with huge wide fire disasters.

The Permanent Secretary of Interior, Dr. Shuaib Belgore in his welcome remarks said that the visit of the California Guard would have been earlier, but for the global COVID-19 pandemic, that’s why its holding now.

Belgore revealed that the Ministry and all it’s Services will be in Ilorin this week for the 2nd Annual Ministerial Retreat to address and discuss security grey areas thereby coming up with better strategies that will definitely improve internal security management in Nigeria.

Also speaking, Major General David Baldwin , the Adjutant General of the California National Guard, appreciated the Minister, the Permanent Secretary, the CGs of the Agencies and all Management Staff of the Ministry who had made out time to discuss the issue of collaboration on the Internal Security of Nigeria, particularly the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on the training and retraining of its personnel to improve their security capabilities.

Hon. Aliyu Gebi, in his overview of the Relationship between the Ministry and CANG stated that the partnership had started with former American President, Barrack Obama for Nigeria to gain experience from their wealth of knowledge, particularly in their activities as it relates to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

He used the occasion to extend visiting opportunity to relevant officers of the Ministry of Interior to visit California so that the Federal Fire officers can learn more on the California mode of operation since they are best in international standard in areas of wide and huge Fire disaster Management.

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Cameroonian Refugees In Nigeria Pass 70,000 Mark, UNHCR Renews Call For Help

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Cameroonian Refugees In Nigeria Pass 70,000 Mark, UNHCR Renews Call For Help

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA): –

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has revealed that Cameroonian refugees in Nigeria are now over 70,000.

The UN Refugee agency also appealed to international community for urgent additional support for refugees in Nigeria

UNHCR, while stating that of the over 70,000 refugees, nearly 80 per cent of them are women and children.

The UNHCR’s Country Representative Chansa Kapaya in a statement on Monday said: “This is not just a number, these are people behind these numbers, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, people just like you and I, that have been forced to flee their homes to seek safety and save their lives,” adding that “70,000 refugees are 70,000 daughters and sons.”

She lamented that their dreams and plans were disrupted by violence in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon where a conflict between secessionist Non-State Armed Groups and the army is displacing people from their homes since 2017.

She noted that recent arrivals and UNHCR’s protection monitoring confirm killings, abductions, forced evictions and other forms of violence, with armed groups attacking schools and hospitals.

She said over 8,000 Cameroonian women, men and children have arrived in Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Benue, Enugu, Cross River and Taraba States in the past 12 months, many in hard- to -reach rural areas.

She disclosed that UNHCR, together with the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and IDPs, registered them, with 59 percent found refuge in local communities and the rest lives in four settlements which UNHCR helped build on land generously provided by the government.

The statement said Nigeria has a progressive open-door approach to refugees, allowing refugee girls and boys to go to school just like nationals and their parents to work where they can, and with support from UNHCR, Nigeria provides primary health care to refugees and nationals alike.

Kapaya said: “UNHCR commends Nigeria because it is on its way to become a champion in implementing the Global Compact on Refugees,” adding however that “but Nigeria needs support”.

She said the most pressing needs of Cameroonian refugees are food, shelter, improved health care and education as well as livelihood opportunities.

She said with rising food prices, the economic hit of COVID-19 and the refugee influx, needs are on the rise with serious risks of gender-based violence and negative copying mechanisms such as begging and survival sex. The amount of support UNHCR can deliver is increasingly falling short. Cash for food, for instance, had to be reduced since 2019 due to insufficient funding.

The statement said US$97.7 million is needed to respond to the needs of a total of some 78,000 refugees and asylum-seekers of different nationalities and to IDP needs – protection, camp management/coordination, shelter and non-food items such as blankets and jerry cans.

The statement lamented that so far, not even half of this amount (45 per cent, as of 23 November) has been received.

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Decision On Visa Application To England Stopped

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Decision On Visa Application To England Stopped

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

THE British High Commission has said it will pause “making decisions” on visitor visa applications from all red list countries, which includes Nigeria.

The decision was announced in a statement issued by the commission on Sunday.

The development comes hours after the UK added Nigeria to its travel red list after a variant of COVID-19 virus, Omicron was discovered in the country

The statement read in part: “To support the UK Government’s aim to protect public health from COVID-19 and associated variants of concern (VOC), UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) will pause making decisions on visitor visa applications in all red list countries, including Nigeria, until travel restrictions are lifted,”

It listed that visit visas cover travel to UK for tourism, visiting family and friends, undertaking short-term business activities (for example, attending meetings), undertaking short-term studies (under 6 months), taking part in research or exchange programmes as an academic, and medical reasons (for example, receiving private medical treatment).

The statement added that: “If you apply for a visit visa in a red list country and you meet the UK Immigration Rules, your application will be paused. You will not receive a decision on your visit visa application whilst red list travel restrictions remain in place.

“You will not be able to request a refund of your visa fee once you have given your biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).”

The statement also revealed that: “If you already hold a valid visit visa and are intending to travel to England as a visitor from a red list country, you will not be allowed to enter.”

It however Rev that separate guidance is available for travellers entering Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The statement said only where there are compelling and compassionate circumstances will visit visas be issued or entry permitted to visit England from a red list country whilst travel restrictions remain in place, noting that there are only limited exemptions to travel and entry requirements for critical workers and medical and compassionate cases.

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NDLEA Officer Didn’t Assault Any Passenger At Lagos Airport -Babafemi

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NDLEA Officer Didn’t Assault Any Passenger At Lagos Airport -Babafemi

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

THE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has said that its preliminary findings showed that none of its officers assaulted an Air Peace Airline passenger, Ms. Abiri Oluwabusayo Khloe, at the departure gate of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The passenger had in social media publications alleged a female NDLEA officer harassed and assaulted her in the early hours of Sunday (yesterday)

A statement by the spokesman of the agency, Femi Babafemi however said while further investigation of the allegation is ongoing, the following facts have so far been established that at about 12:20am on Sunday 5th Dec, during an outward clearance of passengers going to South Africa by Air peace, a female passenger, Ms. Abiri Oluwabusayo was asked to submit her luggage for a search, which is a regular procedure.

He said in the course of searching her luggage, which contains about eight handbags, Ms. Abiri who obviously came late for the flight as shown on CCTV footage became agitated and hurled a number of unprintable insults at the female officer searching her luggage, noting that this attitude is naturally a red flag that would raise suspicion and equally taken as an attempt to distract the officer.

Babafemi alleged that Ms. Abiri went further to point fingers in the face of the officer and at the same time pulled out a phone to record the officer in the course of doing her work, and that it was at that point, the officer seized the phone from her to stop the distraction but that didn’t stop the passenger who brought out another phone to record their encounter.

Babafemi however assured the aggrieved passenger and the public are assured that the NDLEA is a law enforcement agency that upholds discipline among its officers and men, and as such will take further steps to investigate any other evidence made available in the course of the ongoing process.

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Abdulsalami, Babangida Commend Federal Fire Service, Urges Improved Services

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –PRESS RELEASE:

FORMER Military Head of State, General Abubakar Abdulsalami (rtd), has called on town planners to ensure access road to markets and other public places for easy access by emergency responders during emergencies.

The former head of state who stated this during a courtesy visit by Dr Liman Ibrahim, Controller General of Federal Fire Service (FFS), to his house on Thursday in Minna said it was imperative for the the Fire Service in its policy and fire safety standard document review to include mandatory accessibility of good roads to markets and and other public places.

“I think in your document you should see how the legislators of the FG make it mandatory for town planners to provide access roads for emergency response” he said.

The former head of state commended the Federal Fire service on it’s plan to acquire a firefighting helicopter.

“Despite the limited resources of the country, you have been able to sell your idea to the appropriate authorities and it only means you are putting in lots of efforts.

Gen. Abdusalami applauded the CG for the procurement of fire fighting equipments that has made it possible for the Federal Fire Service to have its presence in every state of the federation a situation he was not there before Liman Ibrahim came on board.

He congratulated the CG for bringing the Federal Fire Service to limelight.

“Before your emergence as as the CG of the Federal Fire Service not much was known about the activities of the service and not much attention was given at the state and FG level,” he said.

Earlier, the FFS CG, also paid a courtesy visit to Former President , Ibrahim Babangida.

The Former Milirary Head of State, congratulated the FFS boss for building a “stronger institution” that will remain permanent.

“I congratulate you for the job you have been doing to the service and the country as a whole.

“Your name will be remembered for institutionalising the soon to be acquired new policy and as long as the institution is strong, it will go well, ”he said.

Ugo Huan
PRO, Federal Fire Service

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STEP Transformed Me From Fulltime Homemaker To Employer -STEPreneur Okeh

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

GRACE OKEH, a beneficiary of the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Training (Green STEP) in the 2017/2018 Cycle, hails from Okpe Local Government Area. She has an OND in Secretariat Administration from the Benson Idahosa University, Okada. She is the CEO of Gracie Delux Fashion Home located in Asaba. Though only three years in business, she has built her business to an enviable level far beyond her contemporaries. Gracie Delux Fashion specialises in female, male and baby wears.

From being a fulltime homemaker, she is now a business owner, a trainer and an employer of labour. She is doing great and making positive impact in her family. She has diversified into sale of fabrics and tailoring accessories. She also retails water and soft drinks. Hear her.

“To strengthen my proficiency, I had to engage a different fashion trainer other than the job creation trainer I was posted to. I was well established with my Starter Pack and support from my husband.

“Because the demand for male wears is high, I employed male and female designers. In addition, I have bought a weaving machine, three manual machines, a cover button machine and a double-door fridge. I also sell fabrics, tailoring accessories, beverages and water. I have trained three persons who are doing well too.

“From being a fulltime homemaker, I am now an entrepreneur and an employer. It has been fulfilling and rewarding. I now contribute meaningfully to the upkeep of my home.”

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Delta Central 2023: Legacy Of A True Leader

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Delta Central 2023: Legacy Of A True Leader

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

One of the most invaluable ingredients in food preparation for most reasonable people in the world over is salt, yet this essential product is not advertised. Its importance is known by all and sundry irrespective of tongue, tribes, or nation.

In 1998, by share provident and God’s favor, the political landscape suddenly changed following the demise of the then strongman, owner/occupier of Aso Rock. This death was immediately followed by another death, this time an epochal one, a sad event that has been difficult to explain or understand to date. The Man, MKO Abiola, himself an enigma of that time, the presumed winner of the 1993 Presidential election, acclaimed to be the freest, and fairest election ever in Nigeria died in prison. The Military led by the dribbler, Maradona, General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), had denied him his victory at the polls leading to IBB’s unceremonious exit from power.

The quasi-government put together by IBB was sacked by General Abacha who then became president. He incarcerated MKO Abiola until his sudden death under questionable circumstances yet to be understood to date. May the soul of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, MKO Abiola, GCFR a businessman, publisher, and politician. The Aare Ona Kankafo XIV of Yorubaland continue to rest in peace. I have recounted the events leading to the opportunities that presented us with the democracy that we have in Nigeria today hoping that every strongman or woman privileged to be in a position of authority would know that it is God’s provident and that such positions are transient.

Becoming the Executive Governor of Delta State

The events above paved the way for different shades of people who were bold and somewhat prepared to show interest in the leadership of various offices in Nigeria. It must be said that some of us core professionals were not trusting nor bold enough to take that step. In the Delta, one of the bold and vibrant young men was Chief James Onanefe Ibori. He was considered the dark horse of Delta politics at that time. His victory at the polls was the hand of God, a David, chosen over and above the most prominent and perceivably prepared senior brothers to lead the people.

I was privileged to meet His Excellency Chief James Onanefe Ibori in 2000 about a year and a half into his administration. We had mounted a training program using my firm Imperial Consultants to organize the training on corporate management and governance for all the directors of Delta State Parastatals and Agencies. The program paraded boardroom leaders such as our revered Mr. Gamaliel Oforitsenere Onosode (RIP), Sir Omonigho Osevwe(RIP), and several other prominent Deltans who were Boardroom gurus. This was the first task that took me from Lagos to Delta.

My second assignment had been an invitation to meet with the then Hon. Commissioner for Finance and Economic Planning Chief David Edevbie who is currently one of the gubernatorial aspirants in the State to possibly suggest how best to automate the state Budget, a task that my company BSSL Technologies Limited discharged creditably in all its ramifications.

It was during this time that I had the opportunity of noticing the life-transforming projects of the government under His Excellency James Ibori covering all the nooks and crannies of Delta State. One of such projects that immediately came to mind was the road from Oviorie to Isiokolo, a 7 kilometres road, that was in a bad state, it took close to an hour to travel before the coming of this sagacious gentleman. I remembered spending over an hour plus on that road with my father’s remains in 1994 as I made way to my village to lay him to rest. I can confirm that such projects dotted all the nooks and crannies of the Delta State by the time James concluded his 8 years in office.

I travelled and visited several States and governments during the first four years of his government. I can confirm that Delta State was one of the fairest in terms of administration and governance. The automated system we designed and installed was fully implemented and was largely not subject to manipulation. Every month, the system was allowed to produce a list of all creditors and the government simply ruled a line of payments to be accommodated subject to the availability of funds. His Excellency was fair to all, he was not nepotic or clannish. Consequently, it was one big Delta, where people from the North, South and Central were home and comfortable. He was easily one of the best out of the 36 governors of that time, and this was reflected nationwide. He also championed the resource control pressure team which resulted in the 13% derivative the oil-producing States enjoy today.

The political activities starting from the re-election bids of the then President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Vice President Alhaji Abubakar Atiku and the interest of former Vice President Dr. Alex Ekwueme (RIP) brought about most of the trumped-up charges that His Excellency had till date. I still remember the night before the primaries of the PDP when His Excellency President Obasanjo visited the Delta State house in Abuja.

Ibori is no doubt bold and resourceful, he stood firm to the end on agreements and decisions the governors had reached. Unfortunately, before 6 am on the day of the primary, the tide had already changed in favour of the General. This was one of the major reasons for the severe persecution that James had endured to date. The administration had, like all the then governors of the federation focused more on politics than governance between 2005 and 2007. Chief Ibori had been very successful at his political decisions, unfortunately, he was to be frustrated by the strongman, owner, and occupier of the seat at the time. He nevertheless put all his energy and resources behind the gentlest of them all fellow Governor, Alhaji Umaru Shehu Yaradua, who succeeded Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as President. His contribution to the Nigerian political space was exemplary and worthy of note. The death of President Yaradua brought Ibori face to face with those who had marked him down for punishment for his roles, political interest, and doggedness on resource control campaign. Chief Ibori was no doubt an astute politician with the interest of his people at heart and it could easily be said that dividends of democracy were evenly distributed all through Delta State during his tenure.

Ibori and his Urhobo people (our people)
Ibori has faced so many challenges since he left office. The first major grudge against him by his people was the emergency of his immediate successor His Excellency Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan. The Urhobo people saw this as a major assault on their rights as the perceived majority tribe in the State. From the various discordant voices amongst the Urhobo and in the spirit of rotating power between the three senatorial districts, the Urhobo’s probably would have preferred an Ijaw or Isoko man on the seat considering the long-standing frail relationship between the Urhobos and the Itshekiris and taken into consideration the statistical numbers of the Itshekiris, the Possibility of an Itshekiri man becoming Governor was relatively slim but Ibori made it possible without much stress. I could still remember the Inaugural speech of Governor Uduaghan when he said, he never thought it was possible and if not for the tradition of our people where the older one doesn’t kneel for the younger, he would have kneeled to Ibori for making it possible for him to become Governor. This became the first major trouble for the man who by all standards had performed brilliantly as the governor of the State amongst his Urhobo people.

Urhobo nation and the 2006 Population Census accusation

The Victory of HE Uduaghan at the poll led Ibori’s Urhobo people to erroneously think or believe that Chief Ibori may have tampered with the population figures of the Urhobo’s during the 2006 Population Census. Unfortunately, this was absurd as it was not a possibility at all. Governors did all they could to encourage their citizens to be counted. The then Governor James Ibori did exactly that. I could remember running into the Governor at the Lagos Local Airport and he instructed me as an Information Technology Expert to meet his then Executive Assistant now His Excellency, DSP Ovie Omo-Agege, to ensure that the population data of the State is well preserved at the collation regional office. Ibori neither gave any other instructions inimical to his people nor any other tribe in the State. As a Governor, I can say without any doubt that he saw Delta State as one progressive place desiring even development. Leaders at the time made effort to ensure that their people were counted, and no one could have reduced another’s census figure. Some of our people took the census with levity and later turn around to accuse an innocent man. JAMES IBORI did not reduce the figure of any tribe during the census, he provided resources to all government functionaries at the time to mobilize their people and those who did, registered more of their people. Another Census is on the way, be prepared to avoid unnecessary accusations. I had been at some fora’s in the past where some notable Urhobo’s argued that Ibori reduced the census of Urhobos. I have tried unsuccessfully to counter this erroneous belief. It is this injustice and wrong accusation levelled against James Ibori, that has endured and refused to go away that makes me want to express my little knowledge of the events at that time otherwise, I have no reasons as a professional, an Information Technology Expert and a Chartered Accountant, two professions that are still relevant today and for the future to jump into the fray.

Delta is on the move again and without a doubt, it is clear to all citizens of the State that it is the turn of Delta Central to produce the next governor of the State. Evidently, the rotation doctrine is one of the legacies bequeathed on Delta State by Chief James O. Ibori. Delta Central today has the unimpaired right to lay claims to the governor’s seat comes 2023. The sign of leadership is in the establishment of policies that encourages peace and tranquility among their people. Ibori has scored maximally, in his encouragement of rotation amongst the people.

I am happy to note that Chief James Onanefe Ibori is by all standards a man loved by God. God has seen him surviving all manners of persecutions both by his people and various strong men that the Nigerian State has produced. That he has survived is without a doubt the providence of the Almighty God.

Delta Central (Urhobo), it is now your turn, how you play it depends wholly on you. The seat is for only one person, my recommendation is to put all the candidates out there into a single room and each of them tells us their manifesto, thereafter, we vote for our choice amongst in-house and present that man to the rest of Deltans. You cannot vote for yourself. The process is simple, we know you love yourself, but you cannot select yourself, select one of the other aspirants other than yourself. This may lead to a straight winner or to a tie that will reduce the multitude. DC23 over to you!

  • Okakuro James O. Emadoye
    Urhupe’ra Agbon Kingdom
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DSCTDA: The Midas Touch Of Rt. Hon (Evang) Joan Onyemaechi

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

THE Director General of Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency (DSCTDA), Rt. Hon (Evang) Joan Onyemaechi, also known as “Ada Anioma” seems to have a wand in her hand to turn everything in her care to gold. Thus, she posseses the Midas Touch.

The Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency is a creation of a law enacted by the Delta State House of Assembly, and became operational on 3rd June, 2015, five days after the inception of the Okowa administration.

It is mandated, among other functions, to prepare a Master Plan and a scheme to promote the physical development of the State Capital Territory, and to tackle its ecological and environmental problems.

The State Capital Territory comprises of Asaba and its environs, made up of Oshimili South local government area, and parts of Oshimili North, Aniocha South and Aniocha North LGAs

One of the major impacts of the Agency in the delivery of its mandate is in the area of environmental facelift, which gained prominence after the inauguration of the current Director General, Rt. Hon (Evang) Joan Onyemaechi in August 2020.

Soon after her inauguration, the DG summoned a stakeholders meeting to discuss how to achieve a cleaner and more friendly environment befitting of an oil rich state capital, which Asaba truly is, after which a 21-day ultimatum was issued to residents of the State Capital Territory to begin to tidy up their environment.

Emphasis was on getting rid of illegal structures and shanties to discourage street trading, fencing all undeveloped plots of land on major roads and streets, painting all existing unpainted and new perimeter fences, and adopting unique front view designs for all shops and sales outlets within the State Capital Territory.

By October 2020 when adequate notice had been given to business organisations in the territory, a Joint Task Force made up of the Agency’s officials, those of the State Ministry of Environment, Waste Management Board, Ministry of Information, Bureau of Orientation and the State Task Force on Environmental Sanitation, with the assistance of security agencies, moved into the streets with their personnel to enforce compliance with extant rules on owners of residential and business premises that failed to comply with the 21-day window given.

The operations were herculean, but like the DG would always say, they were made possible by God’s grace and the result was satisfying even to critics, particularly the consciousness that the narrative of doing things as usual has been overtaken by a new order that demands that things must be done right for the good of all.

The Onyemaechi-led DSCTDA has also changed the face of Asaba and its environs with unique beautification projects which have enhanced the aesthetics of the capital city, unarguably adjudged to be one of the fastest growing in the country.

If the applause Onyemaechi receives from women, particularly traders, who now carry out their businesses in a more decent environment in markets within the State Capital Territory are anything to go by, then the insinuations by detractors that the operations of DSCTDA have brought pains to some residents is far from being correct.

Some traders at the Ogbeogonogo Market, Asaba; Midwifery and Anioma markets, Okpanam, told this medium that they never believed that Ada Anioma and her Agency could achieve the level of success recorded because it takes boldness, determination and the political will to get people to comply with most government orders.

They thanked the DG, the Board of DSCTDA and of course the staff of the Agency for a job so far well done and encouraged them to do more to ensure the realization of the set goals of the Okowa administration for the State Capital Territory.

In appreciation of Ada Anioma’s efforts, many organisations, including market groups, professional organisations and youth groups have showered encomiums on her, while she has also received a retinue of awards for doing what most women and even men cannot do.

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Women with Disability Are Faced with Double Jeopardy in Nigeria- ActionAid

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Women with Disability Are Faced with Double Jeopardy in Nigeria- ActionAid

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

ActionAid Nigeria has raised an alarm that women with disability in the country are faced with double jeopardy.

In a message on the International Day of Persons with Disability, the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Ene Obi who decried that people with disability have had to face discrimination, said the case of women with disability is made worse.”

The ActionAid Nigeria and partners joined the world to commemorate this year’s International Day of Persons with Disability with the theme “Leadership and Participation of persons with disabilities towards an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world,” which aimed to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development, and to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life.

Obi while stating that: “ActionAid has been working on disability issues prior to 2015 when world leaders committed to achieving SDG4 to deliver equitable, inclusive, and quality education for all by 2030. ActionAid Nigeria’s evidence-based approach to work over the years showcases challenges faced by Persons with Disability, one of which is the disability and gender gaps impacting on their participation in all spheres of life. The research revealed a broader exclusion for women who are subjected to harmful stereotypes.

“This means that whatever the challenge faced by Persons with Disability, women with disability suffer more and are subjected to double discrimination. Poverty and other challenges of exclusion undermine their dignity and places barriers of exclusion in the society”.

She added that this is the same for children with disability in Nigeria, noting that ActionAid’s research on Inclusive education shows that 95.5% of children with disability are out of school because of their non-enrollment due to their condition.

She lamented that those who enroll, are less likely to complete their education compared to their peers; this is associated with over-crowded classrooms, inaccessible learning environment, lack of facilities to support their learning as teachers are unable to give them the required support. These have huge impact on their ability to participate in leadership and overall development of the country.

Obi said despite progress made in ratifying the Policy on Inclusive Education in Nigeria, current education resources are insufficient to achieve inclusive education; only two percent of the Consolidated Revenue Fund to the Universal Basic Education Commission is provided for special needs. Budgets and plans are not sensitive enough to support inclusion which makes financing inclusive education very difficult.

She added that the research by ActionAid and partners further revealed that Nigeria lacks the teacher workforce required to deliver inclusive education as they have not received sufficient training to practice inclusion in addition to inadequate fund to purchase the necessary technological materials, noting that just 20% of $8.3 billion dollars lost to unnecessary tax incentive in Nigeria could pay for the recruitment and renumeration of estimated deficit of 790,422 primary school teachers required in the country.

She however said ActionAid Nigeria commends the Federal Government on the establishment of the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPWD) and call for more investment in infrastructure and public services that account for the needs of this teeming population, and by extension, everybody’s need, but advised governments to ensure that PWDs participate equally and meaningfully in all processes; designing, legislating and budgeting for city planning and public transport.

Obi said: “ActionAid Nigeria urges governments to leverage on additional revenue by closing tax loopholes and limiting unnecessary tax incentives to provide disability friendly public services including public transport. We call on state governments to expedite action in domesticating the Disability Commission as further delay will amount to great injustice especially at a time when the world is battling COVID-19, one of the most lethal pandemics in the history of mankind.

“With less than 10 years for attaining the 2030 SDGs, it is crucial that the Federal Government take concrete actions to honor the UN commitments and mobilize all available resources to deliver on SDG4 thereby ensuring no child is left behind especially at a time when the world is dealing with a pandemic. As the federal and state government work on the 2022 Appropriation Bill, we remind them that there is still an opportunity to ensure that the budget is sensitive to address disability challenges in the country especially for the education sector. ActionAid will continue to work with PWDs to advocate for the rights, push for their inclusion, support the development of policies and budget for inclusive education.”

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UK University Entrepreneurship Hub Launched In Lagos

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UK University Entrepreneurship Hub Launched In Lagos

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE United Kingdom (UK)’s Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Ben Llewellyn-Jones has hosted an event to launch the London School of Economics’ (LSE) Generate Nigeria Entrepreneurship Hub in Lagos.

A statement on Friday, said the new LSE Generate entrepreneurship hub, which officially opens in February 2022, will consist of a physical co-working and residential space, and through this Hub, LSE Generate will support students and alumni launch socially responsible businesses. LSE’s pool of mentors, sector experts and international innovation network will also help the Hub provide invaluable support to student and alumni developing entrepreneurial ventures.

The statement added that by establishing this new LSE Generate hub in Lagos, Nigeria, the home of entrepreneurship at the LSE will be building on recent international successes which includes the establishment of three award-winning accelerator programmes and launch of eight new international entrepreneurship hubs in places like San Francisco, Lisbon and Dubai.

The statement said: “Given the already large cohort of LSE alumni in Nigeria, Lagos became the obvious choice to establish what will be the first LSE Generate Entrepreneurship Hub in Africa under LSE Generate’s ‘Value Innovators Programme’.”

Talking about the launch of the hub, Director of the London School of Economics, Baroness Minouche Shafik, said: “Our focus here, as with our growing network of LSE Generate hubs across the world, is on supporting socially responsible business start-ups and exploring how the social sciences can enhance the innovation ecosystem.”

The Hub, when open, will provide an LSE Generate Corporate Entrepreneurship Certification; a 5-day residential intensive programme which offers senior business leaders across Nigeria an opportunity to advance their skills in entrepreneurial thinking, innovation and business through LSE Generate’s world class network of global educators and practitioners; a business incubator programme for Godfrey Okoye University start-ups powered through a grant from the British Council.

Additionally, the hub will provide bespoke programmes of entrepreneurial initiatives that are tailored to serve local needs through event series, business skills clinics, mentoring, female founder retreats and much more, designed to equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to build and scale impactful businesses for the betterment of society.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, who is an alumnus of the London School of Economics, while expressing her delight on the launch of the hub in Lagos, said: “We welcome such a prominent UK institution setting up a hub in Nigeria and tapping on its alumni. I am delighted that the Hub is focussing on support for socially responsible business start-ups by promoting entrepreneurship and supporting innovation and technology which is essential for Nigeria’s economic growth and prosperity”

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2021 World Disabilities Day: NHRC Seeks Equal Participation Of Persons With Incapacities

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2021 World Disabilities Day: NHRC Seeks Equal Participation Of Persons With Incapacities

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has enjoined public and private sectors to ensure full implementation of and adherence to legal framework and policies put in place to promote accessibility and equal participation of persons with disabilities in the workplace and life.

This, the Commission noted, will enhance the enjoyment of human rights as provided in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 as well as other human rights instruments.

The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu Esq. who stated this in commemoration of the 2021 International Day of Persons with Disabilities which comes up on 3rd of December yearly, stated that the celebration brings to the fore, the challenges faced by persons with special needs.

“This year’s theme which focuses on “Leadership and participation of persons with disabilities toward an inclusive, accessible and sustainable post-COVID-19 world” is geared towards promoting the importance of inclusion and accessibility in every sphere”, Ojukwu added.

The Chief Human Rights Officer in Nigeria observed that in the post COVID-19 era, the society is expected to embrace inclusion of disability in all spaces to eliminate old societal/behavioural practices inimical to health and the principle of equal opportunity.

The NHRC Boss opined that for Persons with disabilities to function effectively in the post COVID-19 world, deliberate efforts ought to be made by stakeholders to ensure equal space in decision making, politics, sports, leadership, ICT, etc.

“Full participation of this vulnerable group in societal affairs could be enhanced by creating an accessible environment and structures such as sign language interpreters, ramps, braille signage, lifts, Digital Accessibility Tools for e-inclusion such as electronic brail, etc.”, he stated.

The National Human Rights Commission uses this opportunity to call on the government to ensure that disability interests are mainstream into the newly approved National Development Plan 2021 – 2025 to ensure inclusiveness and that no one is left behind.

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UN Rewards Volunteers In Nigeria

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

UNITED Nations has rewarded volunteers in the country in order to encourage voluntary services.

Speaking at the award ceremony in Abuja to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the United Nations Volunteers Programme, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Representative in Nigeria, Mohammed Yahya said that volunteers have contributed to peace and development in Nigeria, especially in the North East.

He said the need to increase the level of voluntary services and encourage more people see volunteerism as the way to go in the country needs to be emphasised and encouraged.

He said UN Volunteers have demonstrated so much strength and resilience in contributing to peace and development, adding that: “I saw the work of nation volunteers especially in Borno State, north east Nigeria, working with communities, to engage in helping them in the transition to peaceful coexistence. The impact of volunteers cannot be over emphasized . for example the immense contribution in battling with COVID-19 virus at the peak of the pandemic in 2020. Volunteers have been at the fore front in response, helping to protect communities, raise awareness, support recovery from losses. These are actions they take to make Nigeria a better place.”

The Country Coordinator, United Nations Volunteers Programme, Nigeria, Veronica Obiuwevbi, noted that “one of the fulfilment in life is volunteerism, the only thing you can do to make people happy, and make our society better is through voluntary service. To contribute to peace and development which UN Volunteers globally stands for is for you to put a smile on other peoples faces.

“It is of mutual benefit because when you are volunteering, you also are putting up new skills, new experience, meeting new people. Volunteerism gives you an avenue to know and do many new things. Especially fresh graduate who want to volunteer, they learn a lot which they can not get on paid jobs, which in turn gives them free will and access to the next level”.

One of the award recipient, Dr. Oluwatosin Jegede, the National Programme Associate, UN Office on Drugs, shares his experience, saying: “I have been working with the government and private organisation, but what i realized is that, I needed to do more , I needed to protect people the more. I needed to do something that will be of national and international impact, in which my one simple activity that I do will protect a lot of people. What I have done is to give training to officers working at the prison in order to protect inmates against COVID-19. We looked at the training that fit in to their particular situation at hand.”

In a paper presentation, entitled Leadership and Voluntarism, Mr. Olajide Aribisala, maintained that: “There is need to encouraged more people to see volunteerism as the way to go. Now the question is always, reward, what do I have, what gain is for me. I can tell you that when you volunteer, when you go out of your comfort zone to help people, there is a reward attached to services, it might be immediate or few years to come it will always come. And people need to know that whenever you serve, you give your best to the community, there is a reward attached.”

The 50th anniversary of United Nations Volunteers was dedicated to volunteers who gave their whole service to humanity, also with award to deserving volunteers.

The country award that cut across the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria, had 15 finalist from different fields.

The United Nations Volunteers Programme is a UN organisation that contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide. It is also a means of engaging people in tackling development challenges, and it can transform the pace and nature of development.

Meanwhile, some the volunteers given awards at the ceremony, called on Nigerians to make volunteerism as a prioritised labour, so as to achieve the desired goal of impacting humanity.

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Basic Digital Literacy Training Programme Begins In Delta

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

PARTICIPANTS of the Basic Digital Literacy Training Programme in the state have been advised to take all sessions of the training seriously to enable them acquire the needed skills to become major players in digital economy.

Delta State Governor, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, gave the advice in Asaba while declaring open the Basic Digital Literacy Training Programme organised by the state government in collaboration with Digital Access Programme Adviser and Country Lead of the United Kingdom Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

Governor Okowa, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Chief Patrick Ukah, said the programme was part of government’s efforts to leverage on digital literacy to reduce poverty index and to participate in the global fourth industrial revolution driven by Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

He said it was in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aimed at eradicating poverty, ensuring quality education and reducing inequality as well as supporting Nigeria’s National Digital Policy and Strategy 2020-2030 to transform Nigeria into a leading digital economy.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the office of the SSG, Comrade Samuel Dietake, who stated that the world was in the fourth industrial revolution driven by information and communication technology, urged the participants to take the training seriously to compliment government’s drive to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality.

Some participants who spoke stated that they were happy to be part of the programme adding that it would enable them to participate in the fourth industrial revolution.

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Zulum Allocates Land For JAMB’s Computer-Based Test Centre In Borno ***Nigerians All Over Applaud Zulum, Registrar says

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

BORNO State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum has directed the allocation of land for the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB’s) computer-based test center in Maiduguri.

Zulum gave the directive on Thursday, when he received the registrar of JAMB, Professor Is-haq Oloyede at the Council Chamber of the Government House.

The Governor also directed the Borno State Geographic Information Service (BOGIS) to issue a Certificate of Occupancy for the
property, which currently houses the Board’s Zonal and State office in Maiduguri.

Zulum further directed the State’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Technology and Innovation to sponsor all interested Borno indigenes that are willing to study in tertiary institutions in other parts of the country.

The Governor said, this measure is to fill up the gaps in the merit and catchment area quotas in many Federal Government tertiary institutions across the country meant for Borno people.

… Nigerians all over applaud Zulum, Registrar says

In another development, the Registrar of Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, Professor Is-haq Oloyede has lauded the Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum for raising the bar of accountable governance that make Borno a reference point in Nigeria.

“I feel very happy seeing you because, you are a pride to everything you represent. I have reasons to be very proud of you. I feel proud to be Nigerian because you are Nigerian. If leadership is service, from what we see of you, what we hear of you, most of them are well intended. When you are not there, the reality is being said about you.” Prof. Is-haq said.

He added, “Everywhere you go, even when someone has reason to hate you, he will still acknowledge the fact that you are not supposed to be hated by anybody who is sane.”

Commenting on the closure of the IDPs camps in Maiduguri and Jere, the JAMB Registrar commended Governor Zulum for the bold steps in returning people back to their ancestral homes, which he said signals the return of peace to some parts of the State.

“The initiative to close down all the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Maiduguri will pave way for the return of all the displaced persons to their ancestral homes. This is quite commendable as it signals a return to normalcy. Some NGOs with no clear objectives and mission in Borno State will now have to go back to the drawing board. The era of opportunistic behavior and mischief by some of these NGOs is coming to an end. I am of the view that beneficiaries of conflict are as committed to its prolongation as its initiators.” Prof. Is-haq said.

The JAMB Registrar also hailed the Governor’s grant made available to encourage research on renal failure and kidney diseases, and the provision of free dialysis service to patients.

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Delta Inmates: Dame Okowa Offers Free Medical Care *Esezobor Hails Effort

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

THE five correctional centres across Delta State have received tons of free medical items from the Wife of the State Governor, Dame Edith Okowa.

The gesture of the presentation of medication to the Nigerian Correctional centres, is in a bid to sustain their access to improved and constant healthcare, the five correctional centres across Delta State.

The first Lady’s pet project, O5 Initiative has consistently been reaching out to inmates in the state in different dimensions.

Dame Edith Okowa said:
“Before 2020, we had made it a point of duty to reach out to the prisons in the state with medications at least twice a year in addition to other items.

But with the advent of COVID-19 last year, we had to collapse the medical outreach to once a year and so we have gathered enough drugs to last them for a while.

“But as much as this is a product of the O5 Initiative vision, we want this to continue even after this administration because the inmates will still be in need of medical care.

“Personally, I love continuity of good policies and legacies. Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has done what he can do and in 2023, we would be gone.

“But we do not want this action to die and the only way to sustain it is to get the State Ministry of Health involved”.

She urged the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Ejiro Ogheneaga to makeke it a point of duty to reach out to those around them in love, especially in this season of celebrations and feasting.

The of Corrections, Delta State Command, Dr. Ovie Esezobor who was accompanied by the Correctional Centres in Agbor, Sapele, Kwale, Ogwashi-Uku and Warri, in his remarks after receiving the medical items, extended the good will of the Controller General, whom he said had gotten winds of the positive developments in the state.

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CITN Induction: Nigerians Hail Forensic Accounting Expert, Bashorun Askia

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CITN Induction: Nigerians Hail Forensic Accounting Expert, Bashorun Askia

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

ENCOMIUMS have begun to pour in as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh, was on Saturday, November 27, 2021 inducted into the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.

The Internationally acclaimed Forensic Accounting expert, was among 850 other persons inducted into the prestigious instutute by the President and Chairman in Council, CITN, Adesina Adedayo, mni, FCTA, FCA, at the Lagoon Restaurant, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The Institute is responsible for regulating and controlling the taxation profession in its entire ramifications, and determining what standards of knowledge and skills are to be attained by persons seeking to become professional Tax Practioners or Administrators, among others.

Many Nigerians, mostly Deltans have hailed the recipient, Bashorun Askia Ogieh FCNA, CrFA, whom they described as a master strategist, accountant per excellence who is an asset to the accounting profession, a master of security matters, adding that “as a professional and consultant in TAX matters, this Cap fits well on you.”

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New Delta Secretariat: Legacy Of Okowa’s Inspirational Leadership – Osinbajo

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

THE Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on Monday said the new state-of-the-art Central Secretariat Complex built by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in Asaba was one of the governor’s legacies of inspirational and visionary leadership in Delta State.

Osinbajo said this on Monday in Asaba while inaugurating the secretariat complex named after the Asagba of Asaba and Nigeria’s oldest professor, Obi Prof. Chike Edozien.

He said that the civil service building of any country or state was one of the major monuments, not just in the seat of power but also the splendour and the authority of the government.

He commended Governor Okowa for providing Deltans with such a historical building and monument, and said that the secretariat would provide the state’s workforce with a functional building and environment that would bring out the best in them.

Osinbajo said that the Asagba of Asaba deserved the honour for having led the community in the last 30 years on the throne of his forefathers.

“Thank you, Your Excellency, Governor Okowa for doing me the honour of sharing this historic occasion with you, the government and the people of Delta state.

“This is historic indeed because the seat of the civil service of any government, anywhere in the world, is usually one of the major monuments, enshrining not just the power but also the splendour of the authority of government.

“This imposing complex clearly meets these requirements. In due course, such buildings become historical monuments.

“The civil service and the people of Delta are today being presented with a state-of-the-art, functional and befitting secretariat complex after so many years. This in itself is worthy of great celebration,’’ he said.

He also stated that the other thing was that Delta “is at the same time immortalising the name of one of Delta State’s and indeed, Nigeria’s great and illustrious sons, His Royal Majesty, Professor Chike Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba.

“Professor Edozien is unarguably Nigeria’s oldest living professor in any discipline and an internationally-renowned Professor of Medicine. But more importantly, he is an outstanding bridge-builder and patriot, as your Excellency confirmed.

“His Majesty has played and continues to play an important role as a symbol of unity in this state, and during his 30 years reign, the town of Asaba has changed dramatically.

“His traditional leadership has ensured that the growth and increasing diversity of Asaba has proceeded without tension and antagonism amongst the people who live in the city.

“Your Excellency, I believe that in naming this building after His Royal Majesty, you are not just celebrating a highly respected and deserving son of Delta, but also signaling the sort of excellence in public service that we wish to see incubated within this building.

“More importantly, you are also saying to a generation that is not even old enough to be employed in the civil service today that integrity, diligence and service to community and country still pay.

“It is my hope that this place will like the eminent personage after whom it is named, and be a symbol of distinction and unity.”

Osinbajo commended Okowa for his dexterity in recognising the role of the civil service in building the edifice in spite of dwindling revenue receipts.

He remarked that the governor deserved commendation for giving the public servants in the state such magnificent edifice as secretariat “because in spite of dwindling revenue receipts and severe resource constraints across all levels of government in our country, you have been able to provide the funding for this project.

“Your recognition of the critical role of the public sector is notable because optimal public service delivery requires an efficient public service which will require a work space that is well equipped, conducive and inspirational.

“Public servants require an environment that brings out the best in them and this secretariat complex will provide such environment.

“I congratulate you once again my dear brother, Governor Okowa, for the successful completion of this very important project which is yet another demonstration of what you have shown over the years that with visionary leadership, state governments can do incredible things and this notably will be one of your most worthwhile legacies.”

In his address earlier, Governor Okowa commended the Vice President for coming to celebrate the landmark event with Deltans, and said that the vice president had aptly demonstrated that he was a true statesman and uncommon leader by always responding whenever the state called on him.

“The Government and good people of Delta State appreciate you today and always; we value your friendship, partnership, and genuine interest in the progress of our state.

“I stand here today feeling very proud of this legacy project. Indeed, I am filled with a great sense of joy, satisfaction, fulfilment, and triumph. It was an arduous journey from the time construction commenced on November 27, 2017, to this momentous occasion.

“As you would expect, constructing an edifice like this would task the ingenuity, resources and patience of any government in the times we live in.

“It was quite demanding and exacting, and there were times we were tempted to throw up our hands in despair, and even questioned the wisdom for embarking on a project of this magnitude.

“The turbulence that has plagued the economy since 2017 was worsened with the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, causing major financial disruptions during the construction process.

“However, we persevered and weathered the storm, fully persuaded of the huge benefits accruable to the state once the structure was completed,” he said.

Okowa added that with the completion of the complex, the state would save hundreds of millions of naira spent annually in renting offices while the coordination and synergy among MDAs would be enhanced, leading to higher morale, better time management, efficiency and greater productivity.

“This sprawling office complex occupies a total floor space of 45, 000 square metres and designed around five clusters with multiple floors, each cluster around a courtyard.

“This concept allows plenty of natural light and ventilation into the offices. All the 27 ministries and their commissioners and permanent secretaries will be housed here, with the entire secretariat interconnected through a system of voice and data networks.

“There are nine seminar/conference rooms, a training room, clinic, creche, banking hall and three restaurants in the building, while the car park has the capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 cars. Electricity supply to the secretariat as with other government buildings is powered by the 8.5 Megawatts Asaba Independent Power Plant.

“As already announced by my humble self, this building is named ‘Professor Chike Edozien Secretariat’. Perhaps unknown to many, Professor Edozien, the Asagba of Asaba, is a notable scholar in the field of medicine.

“It is in recognition of his accomplishments in the medical profession and his disposition to peace-building and peaceful coexistence among the different ethnic nationalities of the state that we decided to name this secretariat in his honour,” he said

He commended the major contractor, North China Construction Nigeria Limited, the consultant architects and project managers, the supervising ministry, sub-contractors, suppliers and site workers for their focus and diligence while the project lasted.

“This project tasked their intellect and resourcefulness, and they certainly impressed with their discipline, creativity and never-say-die attitude.

“It is my earnest expectation that ministry staff will be motivated to put in their best while striving to keep this facility in excellent condition always.

“The narrative of poor maintenance culture that has bedeviled the civil service must give way to a sense-of-ownership, complemented by decency and responsibility.

“This is imperative for the integrity of the civil service establishment and the progress of the state and I expect the chief accounting officers of the various ministries to institute strict measures to encourage, enhance and enforce the culture of maintenance,” Okowa stated.

Welcoming guests earlier, Commissioner for Special Projects, Chief Henry Sakpra, said the project was conceptualised in 2016 by the Okowa-led administration to provide conducive working environment for the state’s public service.

He said actual work commenced in November, 2017 following completion of contract documentation by the state government and the contracting firm.

The ceremony was witnessed by the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, Deputy Governor of Delta, Mr Kingsley Otuaro, his Edo counterpart, Comrade Phillip Shaibu, Minority Leader of House of Representatives, Chief Ndudi Elumelu and Senator James Manager.

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Digital Literacy Programme: DTSG Partners UK Govt

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Digital Literacy Programme: DTSG Partners UK Govt

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

IN furtherance of its determination to ensure that citizens of Delta State acquire the necessary skills and become digital literate in a 21st century digital economy, the state government is to partner with the UK Foreign Common Wealth and Development Office (FCDO) in a Basic Digital Literacy Programme for rural clusters in the state.

According to a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Delta State Government, the Basic Digital Literacy Programme in Nigeria is a project that is co-funded by the UK Foreign Common Wealth and Development office (FCDO) in partnership with selected state governments.

In line with arrangements put in place, Tech4dev has been named as the implementing agent for the project.
The participating states are required to provide suitable venues, computer facilities, internet data, recruitment and welfare of participants as their contribution to the project, the statement said.

As contained in the statement, the programme targets mainly vulnerable women and girls, persons with disabilities, out of school children, non computer literate community members and children and teenagers aged between 11 and 18 years in primary 6 and Junior/Senior Secondary Schools.

The Basic Digital Literacy Training has been slated to hold across the state from Monday November 29, 2021 in Asaba, Ughelli and Warri.

The training is designed to run in ten modules with the aim to empower 390 Deltans in the first phase to carter for 130 participants each across the three venues.
According to the statement, venue for the training in Asaba is the Delta State Library, Marian Babangida Way, the Warri venue is College of Education and Ughelli has Michael and Cecilia Ibru University, Agbaro-Otor, as venue.

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My Farm Proceeds Adequately Takes Care Of My Family, Says YAGEPreneur Osokogwu

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

VINCENT OSOKOGWU has great passion for farming. He hails from Abavo in Ika South Local Government Area. He is the CEO of Fedvins Enterprise and a graduate of Biology Education from the Delta State University, Abraka. Upon graduation in 2010, he took to “okada” riding and farming till he enrolled in Green YAGEP in the 2017/2018 Cycle and was established with a buffer starter pack. Three years after, he shares his experience, having diversified into Crop Production.

“Currently, I have 15 ponds stocked with 6,000 fish. I have lost count of the number of fish cycles I have completed and I have diversified into cassava and yam farming and oil palm development. I train and a render consultancy services to other farmers.

“The proceeds from my farms have helped me to care for my wife, children and mother adequately well. I have a 150 palm oil stands which are already fruiting on a personal land I acquired from the proceeds from my fish farm. I planted additional 100 palm oil seedlings this year. I also have some brood stocks for hatchery.

“The State Government under Senator Ifeanyi Okowa is getting it right. The start-up, the monitoring and follow-up are superb. YAGEP is 90% successful. The programme should be sustained to give opportunity to youths interested in agriculture to access it.”

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Indigenous Contractors Say Impostors Plotting Unrest In DESOPADEC Mandate Areas *Fingers Opposition Party Chieftain

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Indigenous Contractors Say Impostors Plotting Unrest In DESOPADEC Mandate Areas *Fingers Opposition Party Chieftain

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

THE DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum, has disclaimed an alleged planned protest by its members against the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) on Monday, 30th November 2021.

According to the Forum, the planned protest is orchestrated by a chieftain of the opposition party to instigate social unrest to truncate the relative peace in the mandate areas of DESOPADEC.

A refutal letter addressed to the Delta State Commissioner of Police and signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Chief James Tangbowei (JP) and Secretary, Engr. Ogie Samson, confirmed that the signatories to the letter proposing a protest were not members of the Forum and lacks the authority to act on behalf of the forum.

The statement dated 25th November 2021 and titled, REFUTAL OF THE INTENDED PROTEST LETTER BY MESSERS FIDELIS ETE URUGBO AND DAVID EKARIKO, therefore urged all concerned authorities and stakeholders to disregard the said letter, hence the Forum is not a party to it.

The authentic leadership of the DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum, however requested for an authorized investigation by the Police to unravel the true mission of the impostors who are hell-bent on tarnishing the good image of the Forum.

The Forum alleged that their findings revealed that the planned protest is orchestrated by an opposition party chieftain whose aim is to instigate social unrest in the mandate area of DESOPADEC and truncate the relative peace in the state, in spite of the existing cordial relationship the Forum has with the current Board and Management of DESOPADEC.

The refutal letter reads:

REFUTAL OF THE INTENDED PROTEST LETTER SENT TO YOUR OFFICE BY MESSERS FIDELIS ETE URUGBO AND DAVID EKARIKO

“Sequel to the letter sent to you (copy attached) on the 22nd November, 2021, by Messers Fidelis Ete Urugbo and David Ekariko purporting to be Chairman and secretary of our Forum intimating you of an intended protest against DESOPADEC on 30th November 2021.

“We the authentic leadership of the DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum wish to disclaim any planned protest of any form by any of our members or impostors as in this instance as the signatories to the said letter are not our members and have no authority to send any letter on behalf of our forum.

“We are by this letter appealing to you as a matter of urgency to disregard the said letter (attached) as we are not party to it. We also use this opportunity to request that you authorise an investigation by the Police to unravel the true mission of these impostors who are out to tarnish the good image of our Forum.

“Our preliminary findings have revealed that the planned protest is orchestrated by a chieftain of the opposition party to instigate social unrest for political gains which could truncate the relative peace in the mandate area of DESOPADEC in this festive season.

“Our forum has enjoyed a very cordial relationship with the current Board and Management of DESOPADEC.”

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Zulum’s Zealous Zest And The Best Of Us

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Zulum’s Zealous Zest And The Best Of Us

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

ONCE in a long while, his type comes around from a far and abstract oasis of genuine and conscienscious humanity, locked up by some esoteric factors.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno state doesn’t seem to belong to our world where politics of primitive accumulation, klepto-patrimony and prebendalism holds sway.

Zulum’s avowed zealotism is hinged on the spartan desire to make a mark and a change against the known and the familiar but tiring status quo. Borno state, which unfortunately has become the theatre of the ongoing Boko Haram war in the troubled Nigerian North East, has never had it so good in terms of governance.

With over 556 capital projects in two years amidst a raging security threat, Governor Zulum is obviously on a mission to demystify the superficiality of governance while rewriting the narratives. But this was not without its price as the governor has on several occasions, missed death by the whiskers in his tour of duty.

At 52, this Professor of soil and water Engineering is truly in a hurry to change the face of governance by a usual knack to satisfy all strata of the Borno Community. From water projects to the building of the public schools and even the renovation of palaces for district heads, Governor Zulum is on his way to implant his name in the right pages of history.

The Professor’s unique and workaholic style of serving his people has undoubtedly, drawn some accolades to him even from the unusual quarters. One unique thing about Governor Zulum and his capital projects is the fact that they are on the ground, verifiable and of a high standard. He is truly from the little tribe of the very best among us.

It is on this premise that one wonder where he gets his money for such infrastructural projects from that others of his peers cannot reach? May our Niger Delta Governors take a cue from Prof Zulum and put an end to the massive waste of resources that has become their lot. Amen!

  • Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
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Zenith Bank/Delta Principals Cup Enters Final Stage

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):- From Sports DESK/By Sheddy Saxon Udu, PGD:

THE sixth edition of the Delta State Principals Cup comes up on Tuesday, November 30,2021 at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

Alaka Grammer School, Ozoro will lock horns with Ovwor Mixed Secondary school in the third place match, arranged to be the curtain raiser, before the final game between defending Champions, School of Commerce,Warri and Osadenis Mixed Secondary School, Asaba.

To reach the final, Osadenis beat Alaka Grammar School, Ozoro 4-0, while School of Commerce defeated Ovwor Mixed Secondary School 21-20 in a marathon penalty shootout, after full time ended 1-1.

The Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Ebenezer Onyeagwu, said all the last four teams would be rewarded with various gifts items as part of the final day activities.

The tournament is a grassroot and developmental soccer competition, organised for all Secondary Schools in the State.

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FG Shuts Down Operations At Santa Barbara Oilfields

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FG Shuts Down Operations At Santa Barbara Oilfields

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE Federal Government has shut down operations at Santa Barbara oilfields.

A signed statement on Tuesday by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Environment, Saghir el Mohammed, said the shut down will be effected until proper is concluded and adequate measures put in place to ensure safety of lives and property in the area.

The statement read: “In a proactive measure to address the recent unfortunate oil spillage at Santa Barbara in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, the Federal Government has directed the exploration company, AITEO Eastern Exploration and Production Company Limited (AEEPCo) to halt operations in the area until proper investigation is carried out and adequate measures put in place to ensure the safety of lives and property in the area.”

The statement recalled that the spill occured on November 5, 2021 in a form of fountain-on within the proximity of Opu Nembe Community at Well 1, Well Head located at the Southern Field of Sant Barbara.

The statement said upon receipt of the report of the incident, a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) comprising the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regualtory Commission (NUPRC), Bayelsa State Ministry of Environment, Community representatives and Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company was set up on November 6, 2021 to immediately address the situation. The exercise was inconclusive because of inaccessibility to the well head location due to the hydrocarbon fumes that saturated the atmosphere in the area.

The statement added that the JIT directed AEEPCo to shut in the impacted asset (well head) for appropriate oil II response, and accordingly, AEEPCo deployed booms and skimmers to contain the spill crude oil from spreading.

According to the statement, as at November 10, 2021, efforts to shut in the well has proven difficult due to inaccessibility. But in an effort to safeguard the environment and livelihood, staff from the NOSDRA’s Yenagoa Field Office were deployed to the site to monitor and give progress report on the measures being taken to address the issue. There is further directives to AEEPCo to engage all relevant stakeholders in the spilled oil recovery process.

The statement revealed that in this vein, 3000 barrels of emulsified crude oil have been recovered and held in a recovery barge. Also, additional booms were deployed by the Clean Nigeria Associates, a Tier II response (CNA) System to work with the on-site recovery contractor.

It added that further effort yielded result as containment and recovery within the leak area have been reinforced by 15th November, with Clean Nigeria Associates (CNA) mobilising to site for enhanced containment and recovery. Also Boot & Coots, mobilised for well control and securing.

The statement said AEEPCo has secured temporary Work Permit for expatriates expected in the country for the activity. Logistics support and arrangement build-up for the Well kill activity is currently ongoing, and based on JIT reports, a well control company (Kenyon International) was at the incident location for an on-site assessment.

It however said containment and recovery is still on-going, with the well head experts now in Nigeria and work is expected to be commenced on the clearing of the well

However, in order to ensure safety and guaranty future operations in the area by AEEPCo, NOSDRA has mandated the company to carry out concrete actions to address the situation that include clean-up of impacted areas, remediation of spill site as well as damage assessment and post spill impact assessment.

The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency promised to through the Federal Ministry of Environment keep the public informed of future developments on the spill incident with an effort to contained further spread and limit the effect on the environment.

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Kukah Charges Govt On Creation Of Environment To Harness Youth’s Potentials

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Kukah Charges Govt On Creation Of Environment To Harness Youth’s Potentials

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Mathew Hassan Kukah has charged government at all levels to create the enabling environment to effectively harness the potentials of the teeming young population for nation building.

Bishop Kukah gave this charge on Wednesday while delivering a keynote address during a public presentation on the role of Nigerian youths in nation building at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

He said it was imperative to guarantee the fundamental rights of people to freely express themselves, to associate and protest peacefully without any form of harassment and molestation.

The respected clergyman said every young man would want the platform to come to fruition made available to him, insisting that every generation would have its dreams and visions and it is the responsibility of the state is to make sure that they create a conducive environment around which people can freely express themselves.

In his paper presentation, the CEO of Nafinji and knowledge Consulting, Mr Mike Magaji said that youths should not lose hope in the country but be creative.

Magaji advised the youths to positively channel their energies to opportunities embedded in digital technology to equip themselves and for the growth of the nation.

In a remark, the Vice President of the Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Suleiman Bala, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Prof Saadatu Liman acknowledged the organizer for putting out the occasion and expressed optimism that the event would add more to existing Value that the Instutition is impacting on its Students to become good Citizens.

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One-Third Women Experience Violence In Lifetime, Says UNWomen

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One-Third Women Experience Violence In Lifetime, Says UNWomen

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

ONE-THIRD of the women population worldwide experience violence in their lifetime, United Nations (UN) Women has decried.

The Deputy Representative, UN Women Nigeria, Mr. Lansana Wonneh, at a media parley to commemorate with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, said: Wonneh lamented that: “One in three women across the world will experience violence in their lifetime. This means more than 1 billion women and girls face physical or sexual abuse.”

He however said: “Physical, sexual-based and emotional violence doesn’t discriminate but affects women of all ages and backgrounds, hence the need to increasing awareness about gender-based violence and crimes.”

He applauded the media for their reportage on gender-based violence, insisting that, it would increase awareness, change negative perceptions, and reduce stigma for GBV survivors.

Also, the Programme Specialist, Spotlight Initiative, UN Women Nigeria, Tosin Akibu, said in 2020, Nigeria recorded 11,200 rape cases including children raped to death .
She claimed that the rape cases were under reported due to stigma, victim blaming, poor access to justice for surviors and slow progress from domestication of laws to implementation.

She further revealed that in Nigeria: “Lifetime physical and/or Sexual Intimate Partner Violence is 17.4 per cent; physical and/or Sexual Intimate Partner Violence in the last 12 months 11 %; lifetime Non-Partner Sexual Violence, 1.5 %; child marriage 43.5% and Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting, 18.4%.

The 16 days campaign will begin on Thursday November 25 to December 10.

Wonneh said: “The campaign runs from November 25 to December 10 of every year. It was started by activists at the inaugural Women’s Global Leadership Institute in 1991 and used as an organizing strategy by individuals and organizations around the world to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

“Our purpose of gathering here today is for us to strengthen cooperation with media practitioners during the campaign period, review the activities of UN Women and its partners, as well as amplify public awareness on the need for prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.”

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FG Unveils 10-Year Validity Passport Facility In London

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FG Unveils 10-Year Validity Passport Facility In London

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE Minister of Interior Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has commissioned a new Passport Issuing facility that would offer the 10-year validity Passport to Nigerians at the Nigerian High Commission in London.

A statement on Wednesday by the Assistant Comptroller of Immigration Service in charge of Public Relations, Amos Okpu said with the facility commissioned on Tuesday, eligible applicants can now have access to a variety of options available on the enhanced e-Passport categories.

He said the options include: the five-year, 32-page Passport category; the five-year, 64-page category and the ten- year, 64-page category.

Speaking at the event, the Minister stated that the enhanced e-Passport is a great improvement of the standard e-Passport introduced in 2007. The enhanced e-Passport has more sophisticated security features making it one of the most secured Passports in the world.

According to him, the enhanced e-Passport “comes in polycarbonate data page and with this, Nigeria is at the highest level of Passport security and integrity in the world”.

He assured of government’s readiness to continue to provide Passports to eligible applicants without stress and within a reasonable period noting that efforts are being made to resolve all the problems associated with Passport administration and issuance across all Centres.

The Minister revealed that the Nigeria Immigration Service has issued a total of 2.7 million Passports to Nigerians in the past two years including the deployment of over 600,000 booklets, this year alone to address rising demand for the document.

He thanked the officials of the High Commission for their commitment to quality service delivery and urged for a deepened engagement with the diaspora population.

In his remarks, the acting Comptroller General of Immigration Service, Isah Idris, affirmed the commitment of the Service to meet the rising demands for Passport services in London and advised prospective applicants to visit the Service’s official website (immigration.gov.ng) to apply and pay for the Passport category of their choice.

He enjoined those who have any complaints, to use available complaints channels to resolve any issues assuring that his officers are professionals and would continue to deliver excellent services to our citizens.

The event was attended by the Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, the Minister of Interior, the acting Comptroller General of Immigration, senior officials of the High Commission, a cross section of Nigerians in the United Kingdom and members of the diplomatic community.

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EU, Partners Mobilise Against SGBV

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EU, Partners Mobilise Against SGBV

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE European Union (EU) and its partners are stepping up efforts to mobilise action towards fast-tracking prosecution of offenders and guaranteeing access to justice and remedies for victims of sexual assault.

According to a statement on Wednesday, top of the EU’s priority list is the creation in Nigeria of a special court for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases, which will be a key highlight of this year’s 16 Days of Activism against SGBV, which begins on November 25.

The statement said through its Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, implemented by the British Council, and the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative, the world’s largest targeted effort to end all forms of violence against women and girls, the EU has been at the forefront of the campaign to stem SGBV and bring succour and justice to victims. Last year, President Buhari and the Nigerian Governors’ Forum declared SGBV national emergency.

The statement revealed that during the 16 Days of Activism, victims of sexual assault will receive free legal and psychological counselling under a joint effort by RoLAC, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Judiciary and the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).

The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, will lend her support for the establishment of special SGBV courts during the seventh Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) Network Conference coming up at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel on November 25. The Chief Justice of Nigeria, the Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the Minister of Women Affairs, and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development will all participate in this Conference.

The statement said since Nigeria’s first SARC was established in Lagos in 2013, the number has grown to 32, spread across 19 states of the the country and the FCT.

It said: “Since 2016, the EU has spent over N1 billion on the SARCs. As of June 2021, the SARCs had assisted over 21,000 survivors of sexual assault. They offered immediate medical emergency and counselling, in addition to supporting to victims to access the legal system. Over 70 per cent of the clients of the SARCs are young people under the age of 18. Clearly, this number does not properly represent the scale of sexual assault in Nigeria.

“To underscore the importance of reporting and quality data collection in the fight against SGVB, the Spotlight Initiative is launching a report spotlighting 16 facts about SGBV, co-signed by the EU, the UN and the Nigerian government. Despite positive developments in awareness-raising, service provision and data collection, much more needs to be done to address the recognized data gaps.”

The statement added that: “In spite of the remarkable expansion and spread of the SARC initiative in Nigeria and stronger focus nationwide on the provision of comprehensive medical and counselling services for survivors, cases of sexual assault remains grossly underreported to the centres. Still worse is the proportion of cases that are prosecuted.

“To make matters worse, even fewer convictions are secured, often after long, tortuous, winding legal processes.”

Against this backdrop, Ambassador Isopi, said “fast-tracking access to justice for SGBV survivors has become imperative.”

The SARC Network Conference will be followed by mock SGBV courts sitting. This will be, modelled on what survivor-centred SGBV court processes and proceedings should look like if they existed in Nigeria. The mock courts will simultaneously sit at Transcorp Hilton Hotel and the Federal Ministry of Justice.

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‘No N4.5 Billion Padded Into NDLEA 2022 Budget’ -NDLEA Spokesman

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‘No N4.5 Billion Padded Into NDLEA 2022 Budget’ -NDLEA Spokesman

-Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):

THE National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has dismissed insinuations from some reports that N4.5 billion was padded into its proposed 2022 budget.

The spokesman of the agency, Femi Babafemi said on Wednesday that the agency was inundated with calls and messages since Tuesday seeking clarification on an alleged insertion of N4.5 billion for the construction of police barracks into the NDLEA’s proposed budget being considered by the Senate.

Babafemi said: “This statement is therefore a formal response and clarification of reports that suggest that the agency’s budget proposal submitted by the Federal Ministry of Finance was padded with N4.5 billion for construction of police barracks.”

He added that: “It is public knowledge that President Muhamadu Buhari magnanimously approved the construction of barracks for NDLEA over a period of four years starting from 2022 fiscal year. Investigations have confirmed that the amount in question is indeed for the construction of NDLEA barracks but typographically inputted as ‘police barracks’ in one of the documents attached to the proposal from the Budget Office.”

He noted that the typo error has since been corrected and the budget cleared on Tuesday by the Senate Committee.

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Korea Boosts eGovernment In Nigeria, Cameroon

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

REPUBLIC of Korea in a move to boost eGovernment in Nigeria and Cameroon has organized Korea-Nigeria-Cameroon eGovernment workshop and knowledge exchange programme.

The Republic of Korea organized the programme through its grant aid agency, Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Office in Nigeria in close collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy (FMCDE).

The event was held at the eGovernment Training Centre located at the Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN) building in Abuja on Thursday.

The Cameroon eGovernment delegation is on a 4-day working visit to Nigeria from November 17-20, 2021. The eGovernment workshop and knowledge exchange programme was organized as part of scheduled activities to foster knowledge and experience sharing on eGovernment development between Nigeria and Cameroon.

Speaking at the event, the Honorable Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, who was represented by Mr. Bitrus Nabasu, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy highlighted KOICA’s contribution to the development and implementation of eGovernment in Nigeria over the last 14 years adding that it was notable to have the Cameroon delegation visit Nigeria on the eGovernment knowledge exchange programme which provided Nigeria the rare opportunity to share her own eGovernment development experience to other countries within the Sub-Saharan Africa region.

Also at the event, Ambassador Kim Young-Chae, Embassy of the Republic of Korea to Nigeria in his remark commended KOICA for facilitating the knowledge exchange programme, noting that the program will further strengthen eGovernment capacity building and development cooperation programs between Korea and its partner countries.

In his keynote address the Minister of Public Service and Administrative Reform H.E. Joseph LE who was represented by TABOD Jacqueline MAH épse MEJANG, Inspector General, Ministry of Public Service and Administrative Reform as the Head of the Cameroon eGovernment delegation lauded the collaborative efforts and support provided by the participating eGovernment stakeholders in Nigeria while also stating that the knowledge and experiences shared during the workshop proceedings will boost his country’s eGovernment development initiatives within the coming years.

The KOICA Nigeria Country Director Mr. Woochan Chang informed that the workshop as championed by KOICA Country Offices in Nigeria and Cameroon, was an offshoot of the recently established eGovernment project agreement between the Governments of Korea and Cameroon. The signed project agreement has a project design similar to Nigeria’s eGovernment first phase project which KOICA supported from 2013 to 2019.

Notable government agencies that participated in various activities during their visit included the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy (FMCDE), National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Galaxy Back Bone (GBB), National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), eGovernment Training Centre (ETC), Public Service Institute of Nigeria (PSIN), Heads of the Digital Transformation Technical Working Groups (DTTWGs), and Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

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Blinken Reiterates Importance Of Freedom Of Expression, Access To Information

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Blinken Reiterates Importance Of Freedom Of Expression, Access To Information

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

THE United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken has reiterated the importance of freedom of expression, access to information to democracy.

He said this in Abuja during a meeting with the Civil Society Organisations on Friday.

He said: “We all know that. And a lot takes place online and on our social media. But across the region and around the world, in the United States, we know how these forums can also be used to spread misinformation, hate, and even incite violence.”

He added that: “So, one of the things I’m most keen to hear from you about is how you see government and how you see the private sector, how you see citizens in our democracies getting the right balance between a vibrant, open discourse that’s so essential, but also preventing that discourse from being used to inflict harm.”

Blinken said: “The second thing that I’m thinking about – I’m thinking about is some of you were very deeply engaged with the electoral and constitutional reforms that have passed here in Nigeria, including those below the age at which Nigerians can run for office. When it comes to keeping our democracies healthy and vibrant, we know how important it is to keep young people engaged and make them feel that the system is theirs to shape, and that it’s actually responsive to what they care about, to their futures, to their aspirations. And so, I’d be eager to hear from each of you whether that is in fact the case, and if it’s not, of what you think we can do to strengthen that connection between young people, rising generations, and our democracies.”

He said the report of the the independent Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry is clearly an important step toward accountability for the killings and other abuses alleged to have been committed by security forces during the “End SARS” protests, a year ago.

Blinken said: I’d be very interested in getting your perspectives on that: “I really just want to recognize the role that many of you played, particularly the faith leaders who are here, in defusing tensions that can result in communal violence. This is an extraordinarily diverse country when it comes to faith and religion. So many different views in one country. And that’s a very wonderful and powerful thing. But of course, it also comes with challenges and the potential for tensions and violence. And I very much appreciate the role that you play in making sure that that’s not the case.”

He added that: “We’ve seen that the trust that you’ve earned from communities can make all the difference in preserving peace, and your leadership is one that we hope more will follow, not just in Nigeria but beyond. So those are some of the things that were on my mind. Mostly, though, eager to hear from each of you, and to have a conversation.”

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Cabo Verde Establishes Embassy In Nigeria *Watch Video

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA):- Special Report From Mike SOGBOLA:

CABO Verde has established her Embassy in the country to strengthen diplomatic ties with Nigeria and be closer to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission which is headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The Prime Minister of Cabo Verde, Dr. Ulisses Correia e Silva expressed the importance of having an embassy in Abuja during a visit to the ECOWAS Commission as part of activities marking his working visit to Nigeria.

He explained that the purpose of the mission is to inaugurate the new embassy of Cabo Verde in the country, present the first resident ambassador who will be representing Cabo Verde before the ECOWAS Commission as well as strengthen the relationship and cooperation of Cabo Verde with Nigeria, the ECOWAS Commission, and all member states in the organisation.

Welcoming the Prime Minister on behalf of the President Jean-Claude Kassi Brou and other commissioners, the Vice President Finda Koroma said the visit to the Commission showed the importance Cabo Verde placed on its membership of the regional body.

Koroma, while using the opportunity to congratulate Jose Maria Neves on his recent election as the President of the Republic of Cabo Verde, said “we are impressed by Cabo Verde’s exemplary democratic governance through the organisation of free and fair elections and the smooth transfer of power.”

She also appreciated the clear leadership the country has shown in human capital development despite being a small country of many islands.

She expressed the unflinching support of ECOWAS community institutions to the new government and good people of Cabo Verde.

At the meeting with the commissioners at the ECOWAS Commission, the Prime Minister expressed appreciation for being allowed to address them and explained the purpose of his mission to Nigeria.

He said he was in Nigeria to inaugurate the Embassy of Cabo Verde, make known the First Resident Ambassador who will also represent the country before the ECOWAS Commission.

He noted that this will go a long way in strengthened relations of friendship and cooperation with Nigeria, the ECOWAS Commission and all member states of ECOWAS.

He said: “In other words, Cabo Verde intends to be more dynamic in its participation in the sub-region and consequently boost its Regional Integration.”

The Prime Minister said he is fully aware of what at this moment the Region is going through, noting that there remains hard fight that still remains to be fought for the damages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially the actions of economic recovery.

He said: “The pandemic is still present and demands from all of us more cooperation, more solidarity and more concerted action.

“For Cabo Verde, since its national independence, this is the greatest challenge to its economy.”

He lamented that: “In the process of Regional Integration, Cabo Verde is faced with several constraints, such as: insularity, its dispersion in islands that entails exorbitant costs of infrastructure and development, the demographic and territorial smallness, in addition to the various other vulnerabilities that create asymmetries and imbalances that make the integration of Cabo Verde extremely difficult. In fact, “Unequal does not integrate”.

He lamented that the drama and cost of Cabo Verde development, a country with 500,000 inhabitants is obliged to have 9 ports, airports, among others because the populations are dispersed throughout the nine islands, and the government is obliged to multiply everything, including services, by the number of inhabited islands.

He said instead of one port but because of the geography of the country, nine ports are needed and all this adds up to: (exiguity of natural resources as a basis for sustainability; the limitation in arable land, combined with the drought/water factor for food security and economy; the smallness of the market (physical and demographic) to attract private investment, the specialization and external dependence in tourism services, transport (whose impact was demonstrated with COVID-19); the atrocities of nature (volcanism, drought, floods etc).

He however said in the face of this integration difficulty, Cabo Verde wishes to make use of Article 3.2 paragraph k) of the ECOWAS Revised Treaty which recommends a balanced development of the sub-region and that attention be paid to the specific problems of each member state, especially the island and landlocked states, and Article 68, which pledges to grant, whenever necessary, to states facing economic and social difficulties, in particular the island and landlocked states, special treatment for the application of certain provisions of the Treaty and to grant them any other assistance they may require.

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Embrace Entrepreneurship, Vocational Skills, STEPreneur Eterigho Advises Delta Youths

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

ETERIGHO ONANEFE JOSHUA (2015/2016 CYCLE)
LGA: ISOKO SOUTH
ENTERPRISE: BARBING

OUR STEPreneur for this week is Joshua Onanefe Eterigho, the CEO of Adept Spring Unisex Salon, Azagba Ogwashi. He has an HND in Graphic Design from Ogwashi-Uku Polytechnic. He was trained in Barbing in the Delta State Government’s Skills Training and Entrepreneurship Programme (STEP) and has long diversified into Hairdressing and Makeover. He owns a flourishing unisex salon at Azagba-Ogwashi. He is an employer, a trainer and a resource person at the Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, where he was appointed a Resource Person for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development (EED) 216, ND II in the Department of Civil Engineering. Hear him.

“My passion for Hairdressing led me into this. I diversified into barbing after my OND. My greatest achievement is the ability to build a team, who represent me anytime, anywhere. I have trained more than 10 persons and I have two employees. I acquired a plot of land and was able to sponsor myself back to school for HND in Graphic Designs. Gradually, I shall go into full-time commercial graphic designing too.

“My family and dependants now have better livelihood. I also trained my younger brother to be very skilled in Hairdressing and Makeover. Delta youths should develop the passion to embrace entrepreneurship and vocational skills. Skills give independence and the opportunity of being one’s own boss.

“I thank Governor Okowa for giving me the platform through which I was recognised for an appointment in Ogwashi-Uku Poly.”

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Boko Haram: Zulum Orders Nine Armored Vehicles In Nigerian Border With Niger

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–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA)/MAIDUGURI –

BORNO State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum has ordered nine armored personnel carriers for police operations in Malam-Fatori, Nigerian border town with Niger Republic.

Malam-Fatori, which came under Boko Haram occupation in 2014, is headquarters of Abadam local government area in northern Borno and has a number of communities sharing borders with Niger Republic. Insurgents controlled the place for about six years, before the military liberated it, but so far, without civilian population.

Zulum, on Thursday in Maiduguri, inspected the first batch of three of the nine APCs, with more expected to arrive the state capital at a later date. He carried out the inspection in company of Borno’s commissioner of police, Mr Abdu Umar.

During the assessment tour of the APCs, Zulum said “while the Borno State Government procured nine of the armored vehicles, the Inspector General of Police approved the installations of arms and ammunition on them” since the state government has no constitutional powers to acquire such arms.

Zulum noted that, the APCs will hopefully enhance operations of a special police unit towards the restoring civil authority in Malam-Fatori in order to compliment the Nigerian military.

The Governor had last month led residents and government officials to embark on the clearance of Malam-Fatori to pave way for the reconstruction of public facilities and private homes towards safe and voluntary resettlement of residents, who had fled to Niger Republic since 2014, in the wake of the Boko Haram attacks.

Zulum has in the last two years distributed about 1,000 surveillance vehicles to the military, other armed forces and volunteers in Borno’s ongoing peace-building efforts.

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Lagos EndSARS Report: FG Officials To Answer Questions -Reps Minority Caucus *Says Report Reveals Plot To Cover Up Bloody Massacre Of Youths

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Lagos EndSARS Report: FG Officials To Answer Questions -Reps Minority Caucus *Says Report Reveals Plot To Cover Up Bloody Massacre Of Youths

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

THE Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives had said that the report of the Lagos EndSARS judicial panel has clearly attested to an attempt by officials of the All Progressive Congress, APC, led Federal Government in Nigeria to cover up a bloody Massacre of Nigerian youths by security forces at the Lekki Tollgate.

The Caucus in a Statement on Thursday signed by their Leader, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, said that the attempt to cover up the carnage implied a high level of State-backed conspiracy against Nigerians, saying that the officials of the Federal Government had questions to answer on the matter.

The Caucus was apprehensive as to the motive behind the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed to have rushed to the media, ahead of the judicial panel, where he insisted that they were no killings at the Lekki Tollgate, even in the face of overwhelming testimonies of witnesses at the sad event.

While calling on the Federal Government of Nigeria to be sincere in the handling of the matter, the Minority Federal Lawmakers in the House of Representatives, also stated that with the findings of the Lagos Endsars Judicial Panel, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed is expected to have resigned or sacked by President Muhammadu Buhari.

They commiserated with the victims of the Lekki Tollgate attack, particularly the families of those killed, and commended the Lagos EndSars Judicial Panel for its boldness in the pursuit of truth and justice

The statement reads:

Lagos EndSARS Report: FG Officials Have Questions To Answer -Reps Minority Caucus

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives, after a thorough review of the report of the Lagos State EndSARS judicial panel, holds that the attempt by officials of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to cover up the now confirmed bloody massacre of Nigerians youths by security forces at the Lekki Tollgate suggests a high level state-backed conspiracy against Nigerians.

The confirmation by the Lagos Panel that there was indeed a massacre at the Lekki Tollgate during the 2020 EndSARS protests in Lagos and that APC government-controlled security forces carted away bodies and mopped up evidence, places a huge burden on the Federal Government which had vehemently denied any killings.

The Minority caucus is therefore apprehensive as to what furtive motive must have made the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who ought to know the truth, to rush to the media, ahead of the judicial panel, to insist that there were no killings at Lekki Tollgate, even in the face of testimonies of witnesses at the sad event.

Whereas the proclivity of the APC-led administration to lie to Nigerians on issues is legendary and known to all, our caucus is however shocked that the administration can lie in a matter that has to do with the gruesome killing of citizens, particularly our youths and even attempt to provide official cover to the culprits.

As representatives of the people, the minority caucus holds that killing of our young one for having the audacity to demand for justice, rule of law and good governance in our nation is the height of wickedness which will continue to haunt the APC and its administration until justice is served.

The report of the Lagos panel shows that no matter how lies and falsehood try to prevail, the truth will always triumph in the end. The blood of the innocent slain at Lekki Tollgate cry out for justice and there will be no rest for their killers and those who give support or cover to the murderous act.

The Minority caucus therefore calls on the APC-led administration to come clean on the killings as well as the furtive moves to cover up the vicious act. Also, given the findings of the Lagos panel, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed is expected to resign immediately or be fired by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Our caucus commends the Lagos panel for its boldness in the pursuit of truth and justice and urges other panels investigating allegations of brutality in other states not to be deterred but ensure that the truth is not suppressed.

While commiserating with the victims of the Lekki Tollgate attack, particularly the families of those killed, the Minority caucus urges Nigerians to remain calm at this crucial moment, as we will leave no stone unturned in using our legislative instruments to join forces with other well-meaning Nigerians to get justice for our people.

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Bashorun Askia Hails Lawmaker Of The Year, Oborevwori

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Bashorun Askia Hails Lawmaker Of The Year, Oborevwori

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

MANAGING Director and Chief Executive Officer of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Bashorun Askia Ogieh has described Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, as an extraordinary law maker and advocate for good governance.

In a goodwill message to the Speaker who was awarded Lawmaker of the Year, by Daily Independent Newspapers, Bashorun Askia noted that under Rt. Hon. Oborevwori’s watch, the Delta State House of Assembly has witnessed a level of stability, responsiveness and liaison with their constituents that have seen the passage of legislations to drive development.

“In Rt. Hon. Oborevwori, our dear leader and Governor of Delta State, Senator Dr. Ifeanyi Arthur Okowa, got a viable partner in the task of realising the common objective of building a prosperous Delta for all”, Bashorun Askia stated in his message.

He said that with the excellent working relationship between the Speaker and Governor Okowa, Delta State will continue to reap the benefits of a united and disciplined party that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has become in the State.

Bashorun Askia charged Rt. Hon. Oborevwori to continue in his trajectory of peace building, protection of the people and speedy evaluation and passage of bills to drive the Governor’s Stronger Delta agenda.

The award is the maiden edition of the Independent Nigerian Parliamentary Excellence Awards 2021 and organised by Independent Newspaper.

The event which held in Abuja, attracted dignitaries from across the country, including members of the Delta State House of Assembly, who graced the ceremony.

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UNODC, Canada, NAPTIP, NIS Collaborate To Combat Trafficking In Persons

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UNODC, Canada, NAPTIP, NIS Collaborate To Combat Trafficking In Persons

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

THE United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Government of Canada has commenced the training of no less than 120 officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) on data collection and analysis in order to combat trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants.

A statement on Thursday by the Communications Associate, UNODC,
Ms. Olivia Ogechi Okorondu that the training is aimed at providing answers to such questions as: What are the prevalent forms of trafficking and are they evolving? Who are the victims and where are they from? Are women and girls more affected? How do traffickers operate?

She noted that answering these questions is critical not only to better understand trafficking in persons but most importantly, to better prevent and combat this crime and its complex and always evolving dynamics, which reliable, sufficient and up to date data can provide answers to.

She said: In order to ensure sustainability and ownership by NAPTIP and NIS, the six trainings conducted in the six geopolitical zones of the country are facilitated by NAPTIP and NIS officers who benefited from a training of trainers in June 2021.

Okorondu said following the methodology of UNODC Global Report on Trafficking in Persons and UNODC Observatory on Smuggling of Migrants, the training focuses on data collection paying attention to tracking and mapping offenses, profiles of victims and migrants, perpetrator backgrounds and forms of exploitation, and communicates best practices on data collection and analysis.

She disclosed that training sessions have already taken place in Enugu for NAPTIP and NIS officers based in South-East states, as well as in Osogbo (South-West), noting that this week’s session is taking place in Benin City (South-South), and benefits not only NAPTIP and NIS officers but also members of the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking.

She revealed that three more sessions are planned in the upcoming weeks in Makurdi (North Central), Maiduguri (North East) and Kano (North West).

At the South-South session hosted in Benin, the Governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki, who was represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Anthony Osas Okungbowa emphasized that “following the establishment of the Edo State Task force Against Human Trafficking, the state government has gathered data of over 5000 returned migrants in its database which covers biodata, personal experiences and details of traffickers but there’s still need to further gather and use data.”

In his keynote speech, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Edo state, Mr. Oluwole Iyamu said that “when law enforcements understand analysis, they can narrow it further and use it to predict when and where certain types of crime are most likely to occur and the general responses to such crimes. Advanced data analysis permits to institute preventative measures resulting in reduction of crimes which are prevalent in particular areas of Edo State.”

In his goodwill address, NAPTIP South South Regional Director, Mr. Effeh Ekrika, stated that “this training is apt and strategic as officers will be very well equipped to provide evidence-based response to trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants. I call on all participants to show commitment in view of the importance that the agency attaches to the training.”

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Zulum Gives N20 Million To Bereaved Family Of Gen. Zirkushu

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

BORNO State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum on Wednesday gave N20 million to the bereaved family of late Brig. Gen. Dzarma Zirkushu, who was killed in a battle between Nigerian Army and the terrorist group, Boko Haram.

The governor gave an order for the immediate release of the fund when he led a delegation from Borno State on condolence visit to the family of the fallen general at the Ribadu Cantonment in Kaduna.

Zulum’s spokesman, Mallam Isa Gusau who confirmed that the fund was immediately released in keeping to the governor’s instruction, said it is to support the bereaved family, while noting financial support would equally be made to families of soldiers who died alongside Zirkushu.

Gusau disclosed that Zulum was received at the airport by Kaduna State’s Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, and Garrison Commander of the Nigerian Army’s One Division, Brigadier General T. Opuene.

He said the governor visited Zirkushu’s family alongside Borno’s three Senators, Kashim Shettima, Ali Ndume and Abubakar Kyari; the State Chairman of APC, Ali Bukar Dalori, and two members of House of the Representatives, Dr. Haruna Mshelia and Ahmad Jaha, who both represent constituencies that include Chibok where late General Zirkushu was commanding the 28 Task Force Brigade, and Askira-Uba which was attacked by insurgents, for which the General died.

Zulum met Mrs. Blessing Zirkushu, widow of the late General and her five children, after being received by Mr Gurdebil Zirkushu, a brother to the late General among other family members.

Governor Zulum consoled the family and urged them to take solace in the heroic legacy bequeathed to them by the late General.

Zulum said the people of Borno will remain eternally grateful for the sacrifice of the late general and other soldiers who died with him, along with many others who made similar sacrifices as well as those in the front lines.

Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Government has announced a donation of N2 million to also support the family of late Army general.

Samuel Aruwan, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, announced the donation shortly after Governor Zulum released N20m to the family.

Aruwan said Kaduna’s support was to compliment Borno in reaching out to the late General’s bereaved family.

Garrison Commander, Brigadier General T. Opuene, who spoke on behalf of the family and the Nigerian Army, appreciated the governor and his delegation for traveling from Maiduguri to visit the family. He described Zulum as a compassionate leader whose support for the military is known to everyone.

Governor Zulum had, in September 2020, donated a similar amount of N20 million to support the widow and orphans left behind by late Col. Dahiru Bako, who died from wounds sustained while battling Boko Haram insurgents.

Col. Bako was Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade of then “Operation Lafiya Dole” in charge of Damboa and the surrounding axis in southern Borno.

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AFGHANISTAN: THE TALLEST TASK FOR THE TALIBAN

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AFGHANISTAN: THE TALLEST TASK FOR THE TALIBAN

–Blank NEWS Online (NIGERIA) –By Austen AKHAGBEME:

IT is always a different and strange experience when the hunter suddenly turned the hunted. The very reason why the vicious circle of violence may last longer than expected in crisis-ridden Afghanistan.

As of today, the greatest challenge for the Taliban is not the remnants of “renegades” from the ousted President Ashraf Ghani’s regime but the die-hard local off-shoot of the Islamic State (IS) known as the Islamic State Khorasan province ( ISKP).

This local group first incursion into the Taliban arrangement was in 2014 when they accused the Taliban of “hobnobbing” with the West and signing lopsided treaties against their favourable disposition on the long-run.

This lethal local group who had hitherto began to carve out for themselves, the eastern provinces, had so far killed over a hundred people through merciless attacks on mosques ( of mainly Shia minority) and ambush of patrol teams.

The Taliban, who had garnered the support of stronger Nations like Russia and China, didn’t quite expect such resistance from an ultra-extremist group like they are witnessing presently.

This has sent confusion into their camp and has badly exposed their level of preparedness to administratively take over the reins of power from the erstwhile rulers and their American backers.

Iran, another regional power and a next-door neighbour to Afghanistan cannot afford to watch the Taliban losing the battle to a fierce ISKP whose main target is the Shia minority, a people with a kindred spirit with Iran. They may soon join the fray.

It is observable that any nation once “helped” by America almost always turn out not with the lesser crisis but far more than they can contain. The Taliban have a huge task on their hands. And that task is to leverage on the unexpected sudden support of Russia and China, to build a stable nation devoid of fear, violence and trepidation on the part of her citizens.

Let the Taliban supreme commander, Mullah Akhundzada come out from secrecy to embrace the new task of rebuilding the torn nation. Waging asymmetric warfare is a different ball game from real governance.
For a nation where retail sugar is costlier than petrol, the earlier the leadership sits up to embrace reality, the better.

They must never behave like the proverbial dog, who barks and run after a moving car such that when the car stopped, the dog didn’t know what next to do. The poor Afghanistan people sure need their Country.

  • Austen AKHAGBEME is a Columnist with Blank NEWS Online
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