₦airaland Forum

https://youtube.com/shorts/hIHGb35l9kE?si=cukR6hqkfBaKhnc9

Beware of Illegal Land Sales in Abuja!

It has come to our attention that fraudulent activities are taking place in Kugbo District regarding the sale of Plots 580 & 581.

Individuals associated with "PROMISE LAND ESTATE" on social media, have been illegally advertising and selling these plots.

Sunrise Estate Development Limited initially had a legitimate agreement with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) for this land.

However, PROMISE LAND ESTATES, in collaboration with some FCDA officials, acquired a portion of the land through illicit means.

The rightful ownership was only restored after legal action, which promptly halted the unauthorized land transfer following the departure of the former FCT Minister from office.

Now in order to recoup their money, PROMISE LAND ESTATES, alongside unidentified individuals, persists in advertising the disputed land.

We urge the public to exercise extreme caution and refrain from purchasing Plots 580 & 581 at Kugbo District, Abuja.

The land is currently subject to ongoing investigations by both the Nigeria Police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

This information has been disseminated in various national newspapers.

Any transactions related to these plots are in violation of the law and may lead to imprisonment for contempt of court, pending the resolution of these cases.

BEWARE! Protect Yourself from Fraudulent Land Deals at Plots 580 and 581 in Kugbo District, Abuja..

Peace Group Vice Chairman, Mrs.Ifeyinwa Emilia Onyishi, bags a PhD in Educational Management from ESUT.

Dr.Mrs. Ifeyinwa Emilia Onyishi, the Vice Chairman of Peace Group, has bagged a Doctorate in Educational Management from Enugu State University of Technology, ESUT.

Mrs. Emilia Ifeyinwa Onyishi's journey to attaining a PhD began in 1993 when she enrolled for it in the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), where she had previously gotten her First and second degrees. This pursuit took a pause when she decided to dedicate her time and resources to the responsibilities of helping her husband build a sucessful business while raising there 7 children, 4 of whom are currently pursuing there PHDs in various fields.

Through years of rigorous study, research, and dedication, she has navigated the complexities of educational management, gaining valuable insights and contributing to the academic community.

Mrs. Onyishi was conferred the PhD during the 19th convocation of the institution held in Enugu.
The event had in attendance the governor of Enugu state, His Excellency Peter Mba alongside other prominent dignitaries.

While expressing her gratitude to her family for their support through her academic journey, She credited her inspiration to a Chinese proverb which says, "The Best Time To Plant a Tree was 20years Ago; The second Best Time is NOW."


Dr Ifeyinwa Emilia Onyishi currently seats on the board of several organisations, some of which are Maduka University, Pmt Beijing Trade Ltd, Peace Microfinance Bank and Peace Mass Transit.

The attention of the management of Promiseland Estate, owners over 32 units housing estates spread across Abuja has been drawn to a ‘malicious publication’ sponsored against it by a Lebanesed-owned firm, Sunrise Estate.

Sunrise Estate had in a notice of litigation sponsored on various news outlets, warned the general public against buying the plots 580 & 581, Kugbo District, Abuja being marketed by Promise Land Estate.

“The general public is hereby warned not to deal with Promiseland Asokoro Hilltop or any other person advertising to sell lands in LOTS 580 & 581 as they risk losing their money, and may be committed to prison for contempt of court,” the publication read in part.

Contrary to the notice’s claims, there is no pending litigation involving Promiseland Estate in connection with Plots 580 & 581.

We challenge the accusers to provide concrete evidence of any legal action against our company.

This misinformation tarnishes our reputation and damages our business interests.

Promiseland Estate will not tolerate false accusations that damage our reputation and business.

We are initiating legal proceedings against those responsible for spreading these falsehoods.

We are seeking N50 billion in damages for defamation, intending to set a precedent that false claims will not be taken lightly.

We urge the public to disregard the unfounded allegations and await the legal process to unfold. Promiseland Estate is confident that the truth will prevail, and we will be vindicated.

Prospective buyers should not be swayed by baseless accusations but should instead rely on verified information.

Promiseland Estate owners remain committed to upholding the highest ethical standards in all our business dealings.

Our vision at Promiseland Estate is clear – to move people from poverty to prosperity through real estate investment.

We are committed to building 100,000 homes in the next ten years and providing seamless housing solutions through innovative investment schemes for the benefit of all, both in Nigeria and the diaspora.

Our dedication to integrity, trust, and sustainability remains unwavering. We will continue to develop communities that promote environmental, social, and economic prosperity.

Over the past decade, we have prioritised our clients’ needs and promise to uphold the highest standards in all our business dealings.

Following the declaration of Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo as the winner of the Saturday November 11th governorship election in Kogi state, the deputy governorship candidate of the African Action Alliance, AAC, Engr Oladeji Bamidele has disassociated himself from plans by the leadership of his party to approach the law court, seeking the cancelation of the results of the election.

Engr. Oladeji while addressing a Press conference on Thursday in Lokoja said he is ready to work with the winner of the Governor-Elect, Alh. Usman Ahmed Ododo and key into his blueprint for a prosperous Kogi state .

Oladeji congratulated the Governor Elect, describing as a proof of his intelligence and dedication to the progress of Kogi state.

H[b]e said “Your wealth of experience and sharp intellect positions you as the right candidate to propel Kogi state forward. I wholeheartedly offer myself to your service and urge all stakeholders and citizens to rally around your government, across religious, tribal, and political lines.

“Kogi state, being a gateway and sharing borders with 10 other states, needs a leader aligned with the National Renewed Hope Agenda. Your educational background, with a PhD from the University of Lagos, a first degree in Accounting from the prestigious ABU Zaria and hands on experience as the financial secretary for the local government under Governor Yahaya Bello, has equipped you with the necessary tools to lead the state to great heights”.[/b]

“As we transition from a hard-fought campaign to the governance phase, I believe that healing must start immediately. “Politics is like a football match:
They shake hands before the match
Ruffle each other up during the match but after the match, they shake hands and exchange jerseys”

Oladeji concluded by calling on Alh. Usman Ododo to work with all men of good will in Kogi state, irrespective of their previous voting pattern or history.
Congratulations once again, and may your leadership bring about positive transformations for Kogi state.

In a noteworthy accomplishment, Ewerechukwu Asaka, a native of Igbanke in the Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Rhodes Scholarship for West Africa. The announcement came alongside fellow scholars Magdalene Mawugbe from Ghana and Ayomikun Ayodeji from Nigeria.

Ewerechukwu Asaka, a distinguished Computer Science graduate and the best-graduating student at Covenant University for the 2020/2021 academic year with a remarkable 5.0 CGPA, has further distinguished herself as a Product Manager at Spotify. In this role, she is dedicated to empowering emerging market users. She wants to focus on highlighting technology’s impact on marginalized communities and champion ethical and inclusive product development, by pursuing an MSc in Social Science of the Internet. Asaka exemplifies the values that the Rhodes Scholarship stands for.

This scholarship is renowned for recognizing young leaders of outstanding intellect and character, seeking individuals committed to addressing global challenges and serving others while embodying values that align with principled leadership.

Asaka’s multifaceted achievements serve as an inspiration, showcasing the indomitable Nigerian spirit that values hard work, diligence, and determination in the pursuit of excellence.

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Civil society organisation, YIAGA Africa, says the results of the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State corroborated its reports drawn from 278 of 286 (97.2%) sampled polling units during the poll.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had on Sunday declared Usman Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the highly contested election.

YIAGA Africa, which deployed observers and the Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) methodology to observe the election, said the outcome of the poll reflected what transpired at the polling units.

The group made this known during the presentation of its Process and Results Verification Statement on the November 2023 Off-Cycle Governorship Elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States on Monday in Abuja.

On Kogi State result verification, YIAGA Africa said : “Based on reports from 278 of 286 (97.2%) sampled polling units, Yiaga Africa’s statistical analysis shows that the All Progressives Congress (APC) should receive between 47.0% and 59.0% of the vote, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) should receive between 4.8% and 7.4% and Social Democratic Party (SDP) should receive between 31% and 42.4% of the vote. No other political party should receive more than 1.2% of the vote.

“INEC’s turnout and rejected ballots for the 21 LGAs as announced are consistent with Yiaga Africa WTV PRVT estimates. Yiaga Africa’s turnout estimate is between 34. 4% and 43.6% (39.0% ± 4.6%) while INEC’s official turnout is 40%.

“Similarly, Yiaga Africa estimates rejected ballots are between 0.9% and 1.5% (1.2% + 0.3%) while INEC’s official rejected ballots number is 1.45%.

“INEC oficial results for the 2023 Kogi State governorship election are consistent with Yiaga Africa’s WTV estimate (specifically, it falls within Yiaga Africa’s WTV estimated range). Had the official results been changed at the ward, LGA, or state collation centres, the official results would not have fallen within the Yiaga Africa WTV estimated ranges.”

A former Special Assistant to Ogun State Governor on Job Creation and Youth Empowerment, Mr Abiola Odetola has hailed the mentoring role of Former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Africa

Mr Odetola specifically commended the unparalleled commitment of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to supporting leadership capacity development for the youths in Africa saying that it was indeed a worthwhile investment that will definitely help Africa to achieve greatness.

The former Special Assistant disclosed this while speaking during the Presidential Youth Mentorship Retreat held at the Youth Development Centre, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Abeokuta


Among the participants at this annual event were the Former Prime Minister of Mali, the CEO of Providus Bank, Mr Walter Akpani, Prof. Peter Okebukola, and the Chairperson of the Youth Development Centre, Dr. Bisi Kolapo.

Abiola Odetola also took the opportunity to extend his gratitude to Governor Abiodun for his significant contributions to the Green Economy. He commended the governor for embracing sustainability through the recently launched Mass Transit Scheme, which not only enhances public transportation but also aligns with environmental conservation efforts. Additionally, he acknowledged the governor's commitment to fostering green skills among the youth, a vital component in advancing a sustainable future for the state and the continent at large. This proactive approach by Governor Abiodun further reinforces the shared vision of a greener and more prosperous Africa

Odetola disclosed that this selfless act of the former President of providing mentoring and serving as big shoulder for the youths to lean on is priceless as it is helping the young ones to get more aware of their environment and see what they could also do to effect positive change

He said "The challenges we face as African youths are vast, but so are the opportunities. It is in this very context that Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, has created this program. He has provided a beacon of hope, a platform for young people to be prepared for the future, and an avenue for the seamless flow of knowledge and experience from one generation to the next".

Speaking on the theme of the three days conference which ended on Wednesday, Odetola charged the youths to be more concerned and deliberate in helping to promote a very sustainable environment.

He said "We stand here today, not merely as individuals, but as a united force of dreamers, thinkers, and doers. Each one of us carries the power to make a difference in our societies and contribute to the green economy in unique and impactful ways.

"As we embark on this journey of knowledge, experience, and insight, let us embrace the privilege and responsibility that comes with it. Let us promise ourselves and our great continent that we will carry forward the wisdom we gain here, the friendships we forge, and the determination to contribute to a greener, more prosperous Africa" said Odetola.

The past 19 months may have been overwhelming for the Julius Abure led Labour Party. Apparently Abure, the National Working Committee NWC and the National Executive Committee NEC of the Party could not translate the monstrous support of the Nigerian People and the Obidient Movement thanks to the Peter Obi magic into forging a credible election winning machine.

Sadly as the humongous goodwill of the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party Mr Peter Obi threw the Party up as the most engaging and most popular in the build up to the 2023 General Elections, Abure and his Executives became increasingly transactional and unwilling to weave a united Team that could take the nation to the New Dawn that Nigerians and the Obidients worked so hard for.

Abure's many sins range from distancing the Party from the owners ditto the People, the Nigerian Labour Congress NLC and the Trade Union Congress TUC. You cannot conceivably have a Labour Party with the NLC and the TUC, with the National Union of Teachers NUT across Nigeria, and yet could not have Polling Agents across the nation. To Abure and his Team it was more about personal profit than helping Peter Obi and the Nigerian People to victory hence 'the Revolution postponed' apologies to Mr Peter Obi.

The Imo Labour Party Primaries that was characterized by monumental accusations of money changing hands between Julius Abure, his Team and the enemies of the Party to supplant the Party by stopping the most credible and winnable candidate is fresh in our memories.

The very damning revelations of the erstwhile Youth Leader of the Labour Party Anselem Eragbe about a heavily compromised and transactional Labour Party under Abure are rife. That the Obidient Movement appeared to look the other way was because the focus was to win the Presidential Election with Peter Gregory Obi and to begin the process of the reorganization of the Labour Party immediately after.

The revelation of the Bayelsa State Labour Party Governorship candidate Udengs Eradiri about the Party executives sabotaging his chances by collecting 100m naira from the Bayelsa State Governor and allegedly remitting 50m to the National Executive led by Julius Abure tells how sickeningly transactional the Labour Party allegedly is. And we must rise up to put a lie to this by immediately setting out to reposition the Party.

We are calling on Mr Peter Gregory Obi the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, on the Elders and the Trustees of the Party, on the NLC and the TUC who constitutionally are the owners of the Party, on the Obidient Movement and all those who believe and insist on the need for a credible and vibrant opposition to ask Julius Abure and his Team to step down immediately and give life to the Court Judgement that ruled his tenure over in June 2022.

This call is to bring a constitutional end to the tenure of Julius Abure, and to legitimately end the era of Transactional Labour Party leadership which defines the Julius Abure/Lamidi Apapa leadership furore. Our challenge is to enforce along with the owners of the Party the Court Judgement that mandates the reorganization of the Party and a National Convention for the Labour Party.

Take note that following that Court Judgement, the Labour Party, the Nigeria Labour Congress NLC and the Trade Union Congress TUC decided to stem a Leadership crisis in the Labour Party by signing up to some Terms of Settlement on the 27th of June, 2022. In the agreed terms, Julius Abure was mandated to constitute the Board of Trustees of the Party as provided by the Labour Party Constitution, to embark on an elaborate membership drive and to convene a National Convention that must reposition the Party from top to bottom. Sadly Julius Abure has reneged on the full terms of the Agreement, copies of the Terms of Settlement is attached to this Press Statement.

With Julius Abure still in the saddle as the Labour Party National Chairman the culture of a transactional Labour Party will destroy and diminish the ability of the Party to play the role of a credible opposition to the ruling APC, and by Jove banish the ability of the Party to win future elections.

The performance of the Labour Party in the off-season Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa State Governorship elections tells how lacklustre and ineffective the Julius Abure led Labour Party has become. It shows the shape of leadership and defines the hopelessness that a Julius Abure led Labour Party holds for the masses of our people.

We hereby insist that the NLC and the TUC give life to the June 27th, 2022 Terms of Settlement by setting up a National Convention Committee that must take immediate responsibility of reorganizing the Labour Party and positioning the Party to lead the much needed opposition.

Julius Abure must GO NOW for the Party to reorganize and position itself for the next year Edo State Governorship elections. Edo State is arguably the most Obidient State in Nigeria and cannot afford a transactional Labour Party leadership bungling the chances of the Labour Party winning Edo State.

This is not a Julius Abure versus Lamidi Apapa fight, this is the fight for the soul of the Labour Party. This is a fight for the reorganization of the Labour Party. This is a patriotic fight seeking a NEW Labour Party that must challenge the present leadership to responsible and responsive management of our collective patrimony. It is a fight for the soul of the Party, and this fight will assume the most vehement legal dimensions possible as Nigerians are calling on the Labour Party to lead the challenge for a New Nigeria.

We are documenting the many infractions of the Julius Abure led NEC of the Labour Party. We are committed to ensuring that steps are taken within the next 4 weeks by the NLC, the TUC, The Presidential Candidate of the Party Mr Peter Gregory Obi, and the Elders of the Party to compel Julius Abure to step aside and allow the Labour Party a new lease of life. And we shall stop at nothing including involving the Anti-Corruption Agencies and the Police in the probe of a highly transactional Labour Party under Julius Abure.

Nigerians and the Obidient Movement cannot afford a Labour Party that cannot bark and bite. The Labour Party must be repositioned to encapsulate the collective aspiration of the Nigeria people, such is the immediate challenge.

Signed.

Diokpa Delly Ajufo
Labour Party Elder.

Zariyi Yusuf
Obidient Movement

Hon. Keftin Amuga
For Labour Party Guber Candidates

Dr. Peter Piper
Advocate For A New Labour Party.

Igwe K.C
Obidient Movement.

Tony Magnifiquedude Asekome
Obidient Diaspora

Alhaji Audie Mohammed
Labour Party Elder

Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr.
Obidient Movement & Advocate For A New Labour Party.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrl7qS3JBQ0?si=rTvRzmCtJBwCDXDi

There is massive ongoing protest at the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission over concocted election results from Nembe Bassambiri.

Top Bayelsa based civil society operatives, women groups, youth groups, state and National Assembly members and other concerned citizens gathered at the office of INEC to protest alleged move by the top leadership of INEC to distort the votes in the Saturday election.

As early as 9am the angry protesters blocked the busy Swali Road location of INEC to prevail of the commission from accepting the results from Nembe Bassambiri which they said were concocted.

The Bayelsa State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dambo Biriyai, (SAN), told journalists during the protest that election did not take place in Nembe Bassambiri.

He called on INEC REC in the state, Mr Obo Effanga, and South South Commissioner for INEC May Agbamuche-Mbu to do what is right by rejecting the alleged fake results.

He stressed that PDP members who visited their country home of Bassambiri, were prevented entry by the combined team of SWAT police and APC thugs.

He stated furthering that the APC only wrote outrageous results that were not products of any voting.

“If what we are here for is allowed to go on, it would be a massive rape on democracy. We are here because we were disenfranchised in Nembe Bassambiri. And no voting took place there.

“Precisely on the 10th of Nov, in order to vote for our candidate, about 60 buses left Yenagoa, to Nembe Bassambiri with escort. When we got there, the SWAT team was blocking the entrance with other APC youths.

“They said we should come down. When one our boys, Barr. Dilli, came down, they manhandled him and he escaped by the whiskers. Thereafter, They started blocking them up to the extent that they threw tear gas at us. They said we cannot come in. So most of us were scared so they had to leave. There were no votes. No election, in Nembe Bassambiri constituency 2 and 3.

“And we now found out that results starts coming it on social media. Results that were uploaded in the BVAS. And you see that these results are the kind of results that are so outrageous.

“We don’t know where they are coming from. So we are here to appeal to INEC. We are not coming to discourage INEC. We just want them to follow the rule of law, ensure that they do what is right in line with Mr President’s resolve that there should be free and fair elections in this country.

“They manipulated everything. INEC should cancel Nembe Bassambiri results because there were no elections there.”

In a startling revelation, data from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) IREV platform has shed light on significant electoral discrepancies in the Kogi gubernatorial elections. The findings indicate a blatant case of overvoting and manipulation of results in favor of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Muritala Ajaka, particularly in the Olamaboro and Dekina Local Government Areas.

According to the uploaded IREV results, there are clear instances of overvoting, where the number of votes cast surpasses the number of accredited voters, raising questions about the integrity of the voting process. Additionally, there have been reports of bypassing the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and tampering with result sheets, pointing to a systematic attempt to skew the election results.

The severity of the electoral malpractices has led to calls for the cancellation of votes in the affected areas. Concerned parties argue that these irregularities have compromised the fairness and transparency of the election, thus undermining the democratic process.

The photographs attached to the report showcase documents that reflect the discrepancies between accredited voters and the final vote counts, which are pivotal pieces of evidence supporting the allegations of election rigging.

Authorities are urged to take immediate action to address these allegations and ensure that the will of the people is accurately reflected and respected. The credibility of the electoral process is at stake, and decisive measures are essential to restore public trust and uphold the principles of democracy.

In a significant crackdown on criminal activities, the Nigerian Joint Security Task Force has successfully apprehended several individuals affiliated with Muritala Ajaka, a notable figure within the Social Democratic Party (SDP). This operation also led to the recovery of a substantial cache of ammunition.

The raid, which took place in Kogi east, was part of a coordinated effort to dismantle criminal networks posing a threat to public safety. Sources close to the operation revealed that the arrested individuals are believed to be key members of a gang operating under the directives of Muritala Ajaka.

Despite the success of this operation, the Task Force is actively pursuing other high-profile individuals connected to this case. Notably, Ahmed Atta, alleged to be a high-ranking member and possibly the leader of the criminal group, remains at large. The authorities have issued a nationwide alert and are seeking information from the public to assist in his capture.

The Task Force's spokesperson emphasized the significance of this operation, stating, "This is a major breakthrough in our relentless effort to ensure peace and security. We will continue to pursue all leads until we bring all involved to justice."

The recovered ammunitions, now in the custody of law enforcement, are being analyzed for further leads. The public has been reassured that the Task Force is taking all necessary measures to prevent further criminal activities linked to this network.

This operation is a part of the ongoing efforts by Nigerian security forces to combat crime and ensure public safety. The authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. The Nigerian government remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of all its citizens.

URGENT APPEAL TO INEC TO CANCEL ELECTIONS IN SOME POLLING UNITS IN NEMBE, BRASS, AND SOUTHERN IJAW
WHERE THERE WERE PRE WRITTEN RESULT SHEETS

The Save Democracy Group, represented by its Spokesperson, Comrade Marthins Aberemangigha Adawari, urgently calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take swift and decisive action in light of disturbing reports of electoral malpractices in some polling Units in Nembe, Brass, and Southern Ijaw.

It has come to our attention that result sheets were pre-written in these polling units, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of the electoral process. Additionally, we have received credible information indicating that the Biometric Voter Authentication System (BVAS) was neglected in numerous polling units in Nembe, Brass, and Southern Ijaw.

Drawing attention to the precedent set in the Kogi governorship elections, where INEC canceled results in almost 9 wards due to similar irregularities, the Save Democracy Group emphasizes the need for immediate intervention to protect the sanctity of the democratic process.

Comrade Marthins Aberemangigha Adawari, as the spokesperson for the Save Democracy Group, sternly warns INEC against undermining the will of the people. The consequences of allowing such electoral misconduct to persist are grave and erode the foundations of our democratic principles

In light of these alarming reports, the Save Democracy Group vehemently calls on INEC to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the reported irregularities. If necessary, we demand the cancellation of elections in these polling units in Nembe, Brass, and Southern Ijaw to preserve the integrity of our democracy.

The Save Democracy Group trusts that INEC will uphold its commitment to fair and transparent elections, and we anticipate that decisive measures will be taken to address these issues promptly.

Comrade Marthins Aberemangigha Adawari
Spokesperson
Save Democracy Group

People suspected to be SDP thugs have gunned down a 35-year-old APC supporter, Umar Hassan, at his Agala Ogane Polling Unit, Anyigba.

Fear gripped voters at the Polling Unit as SDP thugs were on rampage, threatening to kill anyone who vote against the “Igala Agenda”.

An eye witness who identified himself simply as Adamu, told newsmen how the SDP thugs invaded the Polling Unit with sophisticated weapons, threatening to kill anyone who “doesn’t vote for the SDP”.

“It was like what we watch in horror movies as they invaded our Polling Unit with very dangerous weapons. Unfortunately, Hassan fell victim and he was gunned down.

“They kept chanting war songs that they will kill anyone who voted against the Igala Agenda. They targeted Hassan being an APC member.

“What surprised me most was that the Military guys that had been targeting APC supporters for arrest and harassment were not on ground to save Hassan’s life. It was so unfortunate”.

There was calm across many Polling Units in Anyigba until the gunmen stormed many units to fight anyone suspected to be an APC member.

Reports show that the poll has been peaceful so far in the Central and Western Senatorial Districts.

When contacted, the Spokesperson of the APC Governorship Campaign Council, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo condemned the attack and urged security agencies to fish out the killers immediately.

“The gruesome murder of Hassan Umar whose only sin was being an APC member is unacceptable. The security agents in the area should fish out the murderers immediately.

“In the 21st century, it is sad that people are still killed for supporting a particular political party. It is unacceptable and condemnable. We knew the only agenda of the SDP is to wage violence against our people. We must restore confidence in our electoral process”, he said.

Seventeen years ago, Ogun State hosted the National Sports Festival, which was declared as one of the best in the fiesta’s history. The Gateway 2006 Games was staged during the Gbenga Daniel’s administration, with Bukola Olopade as Sports Commissioner.

Now, Ogun State is gearing up to host the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival in 2024, and Olopade, who is Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), said it would be ‘different.’

On Tuesday, Sports Minister, John Enoh, inaugurated the Main Organising Committee (MOC) for the Games, with a charge to the committee to work hard to deliver a seamless and successful event next year.

Olopade, who is also the vice chairman of the MOC, told The Guardian, yesterday, that the Gateway 2024 National Sports Festival would break many records, both in the area of organisation, attendance and glamour.

Three states in the southwest region have hosted the National Sports Festival since it began in 1973. While Lagos has hosted it several times, Ibadan, Oyo State capital, hosted it ones, ‘Oluyole 79’. But Ogun State is aspiring to join the list of states to have staged the fiesta twice, having hosted it in 2006.

Apart from Lagos and Edo states, only three states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have hosted the fiesta twice. They are Kaduna (1977 and 2009), Bauchi (1991 and 2000) and Rivers (1988 and 2011). The FCT hosted it in 2004 and 2018. Kwara hosted it once in 1985, Benue in 1986, Imo in 1988 and Delta in 2022.

According to Olopade, one major area that will make Gateway 2024 Games different from other National Sports Festival is the involvement of corporate organisations and the display of true traditional heritage by the people.

“In 2006, we hosted a festival that was celebrated as one of the best in the country. Next year, we are bringing to Nigerians an entirely different National Sports Festival,” he said.

To pave way for a successful festival in 2024, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, a sports lover, has given members of the LOC the free hand to operate.

“We are very grateful to our Governor for me and other members of the LOC the free hand to go about our duties. Governor Abiodun is a sports lover, and it matters a lot in staging event of this magnitude. I assure him and people of Ogun State that the LOC won’t disappoint,” he stated.

Olopade, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, revealed, yesterday, that the date for the 2024 National Sports Festival would be made known to Nigerians soon by the MOC.

He, however, noted that the Games would hold in Abeokuta and Ikenne, home of the late frontline politician, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

“Some preliminary games may hold in other venues, but Abeokuta and Ikenne are the two main venues for the 2024 National Sports Festival,” Olopade stated.

Tarabans in Diaspora has called on Governor Agbu Kefas to stop wasteful spending and take governance seriously.

Martins Joel spokesperson of the group in a statement submitted that there are a lot of reasons that suggest to that Governor Agbu does not consult or seek the opinions of either his aides or relevant stakeholders before arriving at critical decisions.

Joel said the idea of going around meeting consultants or embassies without first discussing or critically examining such issues as education, economy, security, or even projects is not a good path to take. It will only mean that Taraba goes for those meetings without the right data for engagement and with a shallow understanding of the situation.

"This has also led to a lot of rumours that the Governor trusts outsiders for decisions affecting the state rather than relying on the abundant human resources in the state. Are we stopping him from consulting outsiders? No! But he shouldn’t ignore the people within, and if he is consulting them, it should be clearly seen."

Full statement below: AGBU: HAS TARABA MISSED IT AGAIN? - Concerned Tarabans in Diaspora


The emergence of Governor Kefas Agbu of Taraba as the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 elections was met with mixed reactions. While a section of Tarabans saw his emergence as a ray of hope, several other people questioned his capacity to govern. Left with no viable option, the people pacified themselves, rallied behind, and voted for him overwhelmingly during the general elections. Fast Forward to the 29 of May 2023, Kefas Agbu was inaugurated and sworn in as the Governor of Taraba State. On the inauguration day, he wrote: “I am humbled to be sworn in as the Governor of Taraba, today. It's a new dawn in our history as a State and People - I am privileged to be your Servant-Leader. I am committed to serving you all with tact, and dedication to the development of our Society.”

To be fair to him, the Governor showed flickers of hope in his early days in office. He was seen visiting schools – primary, secondary, and tertiary schools, and hospitals. The hitherto dirty metropolitan roads were swept clean too. This was, for the people of Taraba, a show of presence and empathy; the presence of their governor in their midst who is empathetic with their problems - something the people of the state did not experience with his predecessor, Former Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku (DDI). He also organized a Youth, Economy, and Security Summit in those early days. This gave the people a ray of hope. Sadly, that is as far as the story of this newfound hope went.

What we have seen since the few days of what now seems to be a subterfuge is a downward spiral of everything in governance even if we were to use DDI’s abysmal standards as a criterion to gauge Agbu Kefas. Come with me….


Appointments


Gov. Kefas Agbu promised there would be a paradigm shift in governance and he hoped to start with appointments. He told everyone who cared to listen that his government was the government of the youths. When he was ready to appoint commissioners, he sent a memo to the party office through the office of the Secretary to the Government of the State, to nominate candidates for appointment. The memo contained a number of criteria, one of which is ‘nominee must possess cognate experience’. Though Gov. Kefas did as promised, the youth demographic, I am afraid, is a far cry from even the Governor’s standard. Critics within the state have summed up the major activities done by these heads of ministries – photo-ops sessions. And over five months in office, the Governor has continued to shy away from the appointments of advisers and others. You just wonder how he intends to run the government – well, “he knows what he is doing.” At least, that’s what he keeps saying. We hope so…


Lack of Managerial and Administrative skills

You’ll never see a more chaotic and directionless administration like that of Gov. Kefas. No one in the whole of Taraba State can distinguish between official communication and social media posts by data boys. Everyone seems to be a government or branch of government. The Governor sits in the comfort of his sitting room or office and makes statements to the press and expects civil servants to carry out the “instructions” without official memo to minute on. A very good example is the implementation of minimum wage.

As of the time of writing this, Taraba state workers have not been paid their October salary. The reason is that the Governor promised on media that minimum wage will be implemented by October. He did not communicate this officially to the right authorities. When it was time for salary, and vouchers were raised with the old salaries, he asked them to return it and ensure minimum wage is implemented or “heads will roll’’, a news, carried by these ‘media team’ to mean that the Governor meant business. Still, I stand to be corrected, this was without an official communication from the Governor to the right authorities. When confronted about making spurious promises in a media chat, the Governor retorted that he was making declarations. Oh God! Oh God! Oh God!.....But once again, “I know what I am doing” is the story from the Governor.


Wasteful and Reckless Spending


Governor Agbu Kefas has been in office for 5 months and 10 days today. He has not spent one whole week at a stretch in any part of Taraba State and has not spent more than 1 month combined in the state in the period stated. And he travels with a chartered plane. The cost of flying a chartered plane is online for everyone to see. Kefas is so reckless that he can fly into Jalingo Friday evening, does nothing, or performs a function as useless as inaugurating a committee, which even his Chief of Staff can do, and flies out on Saturday morning before the cock crows. More than 50 percent of these travels are done with more than half the cabinet members – heads of ministries and key government offices, notably the Commissioner of Information and Finance, thereby crippling the administration of these offices. You would prefer the monies to be embezzled to this monumental wastage going on in the state.


Unending Retreats


Credit to Governor Kefas. He organized a retreat in Abuja for the newly appointed commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and Directors, and other government functionaries, to get them up to speed. But as we write this, the people of Taraba State have lost count of the retreats that the commissioners and legislators have had. As a matter of fact, the commissioners have spent more time on retreat than they did in their offices since they were sworn in in July. This leaves you wondering what exactly they are retreating from to refuel and get back to work. They haven’t done any work anyway. One would expect that they are at least learning the ropes of administering ministries and understanding bureaucratic processes so as to avoid the blunders perpetrated by some of them. But then, this is where we are, after all, it is still a young government with enough time to adjust. That nonetheless, these endless retreats is another area where Governor Agbu has shown how wasteful he can be.


Failure to Expose Taraba to the Outside World


This point is somewhat tied to the preceding one. Now, here is a Governor who wants to boost tourism within the state, but he prefers to take major events outside the state. An example was the first retreat for the commissioners which was hosted in Abuja and the current one going on in Lagos. One will assume that hosting events within the state will help boost tourism, and encourage more visitors to visit the state, thereby creating patronage for businesses within the state but, the governor prefers to host events outside the state. How then will outsiders know about Taraba and boost the confidence of intending tourists? Though the Governor has a personal life and is free to make choices, one would expect that the event where he celebrated his daughter’s call to bar should have taken place in Taraba and have all the visitors invited over. Well, it is not up for debate, however, the state was nearly empty because every government official was in Abuja to attend that event. Did they sponsor themselves to be there? That’s a question for another day. Like stated before, this was a personal event. We can do better.


Unrealistic Policies - Education


At the time all the schools in the universe were increasing school fees, Governor Kefas Agbu was declaring free education in Taraba State. Of course, education from primary school to JSS 3 has always been free. Reduction in school fees too is not a bad thing. But where is the money to fund it? Aside from that, the Governor wants to sew uniforms for school children. How sustainable is this practice? Where on earth is this done in 2023? As we write this, most schools, especially those in urban areas, are filled to the brim. A class that, according to UNESCO standards, should not have more than 35 students per class, is accommodating 200-300 students.
In the past 4 months, commissioners and other government functionaries have travelled to Kenya, Rwanda, Netherlands, and Finland to “study” their free education model for implementation. The same free education that Obafemi Awolowo implemented here in South-West, Nigeria, more than 60 years ago. Waste. Waste. Waste. Everywhere!


Unrealistic Policies - Agriculture


The only agricultural policy Agbu has is buying power tillers like machines he constantly referred to as tractors. If there is any other policy or even a direction for developing the agricultural sector, we have not seen or heard of it, and that is besides his speeches of focusing on the agricultural sector to boost IGR. We are talking about Taraba state, an agriculturally viable state in the world, yet, without a well-thought-out plan to harness this sector. “I know what I am doing”.


Out-Sourcing of Patrimony


Taraba state is one of the states in northern Nigeria and Nigeria at large, that boast of the best brains in almost every facet of life. But what Gov. Agbu has achieved in the past 5 months is to relegate Tarabans to the background.

Ministries are now run by consultants (and not the commissioners) shipped in from all over Nigeria. Contracts, which none has followed due process, are awarded to non-indigenes when there are capable indigenes. All the retreats bar one that he has organised, were held outside the state, thereby enriching outsiders with Taraba meagre resources. Tarabans did not vote for Governor Agbu so he could push them into poverty. The Governor should know that for every consultant he brings, there are 3 or 4 Tarabans who are far better than that consultant.


Too many Committees


Most of Governor Agbu’s commissioners rarely stay at their duty post to work for the majority of Tarabans, they are seen traveling along with the governor wherever he goes. This has further helped in crippling government activities within the state and further encouraging staff redundancy within the ministries. The Governor seems to prefer the concept of governance using committees and then having the commissioners as members of those committees. Could it be that he doubts the capacity of these commissioners- or that he needs to compensate the older stakeholders who are angry with the Governor for changing the landscape of political appointments in Taraba State? Needless to say, these committees need to understand their tasks, the policies guiding their fields and what needs to be done to be better positioned for growth.


Crippling the state legislative arm


The speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly has been turned into a member of the executive arm of Governor Agbu’s government. He has almost become a part and parcel of the Governor’s traveling entourage. He is constantly in Abuja with the Governor or seen traveling to other countries as part of the Governor’s entourage. In sane societies, the speaker will be busy shaping the laws of the land, working to domicile certain laws to the benefit of the state and helping to cut the excesses of the executive arm. Well, not here, not now. This has left the legislative arm of government redundant and inactive with little or no activity besides approving loans that were not well thought out. The other members of the State Assembly have been spending days attending a series of retreats outside the state than they have done sitting in the chambers and legislating for the people of the state.


No Economic Plan


Taraba state has all the wrong economic indices; high poverty, high unemployment rate, high in multidimensional poverty, etc. One will assume that on assumption of office, the governor will assemble an economic team that will fashion out a workable economic blueprint for the state and ensure its implementation, but nothing of such is in place at the moment. The Governor only talks about it but does nothing to show Tarabans that we are on course. On Internally Generated Revenue, Taraba is also lagging behind as we still can't raise as little as 10% of our yearly budget as IGR. There are still issues of payroll racketeering going on, where some very few people are feeding fat on state resources and using the wealth to build hotels within the state capital. The governor hasn’t acted on these or has he attempted to deploy technology in addressing the leakages in the revenue and payroll problems.


Unclear Policies


It is getting to the sixth month of this administration, and Tarabans still cannot state in clear terms what the policy directions of the Agbu’s government are all about. Months after the inauguration of the state cabinet, the commissioners have not been able to articulate and communicate in clear terms what their focus or any new reform that will kick-start the Taraba economy. The new ministries have not been able to come out and educate the citizens on what to expect or what reforms they intend to carry out. This has left us to wonder if at all, the governor has any plans for the state outside traveling all over the place. If these travels are for this very purpose, then there should be a clear picture of what will happen and how it will happen, and quickly too.

As the Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States November 11 Governorship elections draw close, likely favourites have emerged.

This was learnt via a poll conducted by an independent polling agency, Falcon Alliance.

The polling agency went round the three States to talk with the people to weigh their moods and to find out from them who they will be casting their votes for, come November 11.

In Bayelsa State, over 300 persons selected from across the State were interviewed. 93% of the respondents said they have candidates they will be voting for.

77.8% said they will be voting for the PDP candidate. 14.1% said they will be voting for the APC candidate while only 0.9% said they will be voting for the LP candidate.

In Imo State, 1,620 persons from across the three Senatorial zones of the State were interviewed.

Of the respondents, 28.7% said they will vote for the APC candidate, 19.9% said they will vote for the LP candidate while only 4.8% said they will vote for PDP candidate. A vast majority of the sample size said they were undecided as to who they will vote for.

In Kogi State, 2,613 persons were selected from across the three Senatorial zones of the State. 85% of the respondents said they have a candidate in mind. Only 15% were still undecided as of the time of the poll.

43.7% of the respondents said they will vote for the PDP candidate, 27.7% said they will vote for the APC candidate, 14.9% said they will vote for the SDP candidate.

Based on this study; Senator Duoyo Diri, the candidate of the PDP in the Bayelsa Governorship election will emerge winner on November 11, 2023. Also based on this study, Senator Hope Uzodimma of the APC in the Imo State Governorship election is set for a second term as Imo State Governor while Senator Dino Melaye of the PDP in the Kogi State Governorship election is set to emerge Governor of Kogi State, come November 11, 2023.

In a dazzling and star-studded event held at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos, itel, one of Africa’s leading mobile phone brands, was honoured with the prestigious title of “The Most Outstanding Mobile Phone Brand in Consumer Engagement” at the BrandCom Awards Event 2023. The event, which took place on a glamorous evening, celebrated excellence in marketing, branding, and consumer engagement, recognizing the brands that have truly excelled in connecting with their customers in the most meaningful and impactful ways.

This recognition reflects itel’s commitment to delivering not only affordable and reliable mobile devices but also a seamless and engaging experience for its customers. The BrandCom Awards Event is one of the most highly regarded award ceremonies in Nigeria and Africa, attracting industry leaders and experts to celebrate outstanding achievements in the world of branding and marketing.

The award ceremony featured a line-up of influential and respected figures from the marketing, communications, and branding industry. The glitzy affair served as a platform to acknowledge the brands and individuals that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to engaging with their consumers effectively and establishing a strong emotional connection.


Upon receiving the award, itel’s Marketing Manager for West Africa Region 1, Oke Umurhohwo, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm. He said, “We are incredibly honoured and delighted to receive the ‘Most Outstanding Mobile Phone Brand in Consumer Engagement’ award. This recognition underscores our unwavering commitment to our customers and our relentless pursuit of innovative strategies to engage with them effectively. We believe in building lasting relationships with our customers, and this award is a testament to the efforts of our dedicated team.”

itel has consistently made strides in the mobile phone industry by providing feature-rich, cost-effective devices that cater to the diverse needs of consumers in Africa and beyond. However, the company’s dedication to consumer engagement goes beyond the products themselves. itel has always aimed to create a unique bond with its customers through various initiatives and activities, including social responsibility projects, community outreach programs, and exciting digital campaigns.

One of itel’s most successful consumer engagement strategies is its “Love Always On” CSR initiative, which has touched the hearts of millions of people across Africa. This initiative, designed to celebrate the unwavering love that exists between the brand and its communities resonated with the audience on a profound level, reinforcing the brand’s values and mission.

In addition to its creative campaigns, itel has consistently focused on providing exceptional after-sales service, customer support, and user-friendly products, earning the trust and loyalty of countless users in the process.

The award is a testament to itel’s commitment to its mission of making mobile technology accessible to everyone, not only in terms of affordability but also in terms of ensuring a delightful and seamless user experience. This achievement underscores the brand’s dedication to going the extra mile in connecting with its consumers.

Ogun State is well positioned to harness the full potential of sports in Nigeria, in Africa and globally. The State has produced a number of sporting legends including: Muda Lawal, Falilat Ogunkoya, Segun Odegbami, Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan – to name just a few.

To this end, the present administration of the State, ably led by Prince Dapo Abiodun has identified sports as an engine for economic growth and development. Bidding for and winning the 2024 National Sports Festival is just one evidence of this.


The 2024 National Sports Festival would be the 22nd edition of the showpiece sporting event that brings athletes competing in various sports together in one location. The first edition was held back in Lagos in 1973.

Other previous host states of the biennial sporting event, include Ogun State, Kaduna more recently Edo and Delta States.


Now, this I believe is Prince Dapo Abiodun’s thinking; Hosting the Sports Festival will catalyze and showcase the ongoing development in the state by;

Raising the Profile of Ogun State
Hosting a major sporting event like the NSF gives the state an opportunity to showcase its many distinctive features, such as its topography, arts, culture, natural resources, human capital, and so on, and this will leave a lasting impression on all Nigerians. The state then experiences a cascade of socioeconomic effects as a result. These include an influx of tourism and business development to an exponential degree. .

A Boost to the Local Economy
Athletes, fans, and media from all over the nation will pour into the state for the duration of the event. This means that the local economy will receive a financial boost. Businesses like restaurants, lodging facilities, shops, transportation companies, etc. stand to gain greatly. This would have a favourable effect on small and medium-sized businesses in the state.

Job Creation
Building all the required infrastructure for the games, the planning and execution of the plans for this event will help create jobs for thousands of Ogun State residents and consequently continue to catalyze the economic revitalization of the state.

Excitement and Inspiration
Although unquantifiable in monetary terms, the hosting of this major sporting event will trigger a huge amount of enthusiasm and excitement. It would encourage young people in Ogun State to participate in sports, which has long-term health advantages, develops a new talent pool, and eventually boosts the state and country internationally (sports stars like Tobi Amusan, Falilat Ogunkoya, etc. are examples of this).

The administration also has another task cut out for it: boosting culture and tourism through the revamping of popular tourist destinations like Olumo Rock, Yemoji Natural Pool, OOPL Wild Life Park, Kuti Museum, etc. in order to manage the long-term economic effects of this influx of visitors and business interests to the state.

Long Term Investment and Legacy
Preparing for this major sporting event will require long term investment in new sporting infrastructures and capabilities, as well as the renovation of existing ones.

Beyond sports, the state’s road infrastructure, transportation and security apparatus will have to be revamped in the lead up to the event.
I note that the state has already kicked off efforts in this direction.

I am aware that plans are underway to build a new modern Indoor Sports Hall and an Olympic Standard swimming pool at the MKO Abiola Stadium. Other facilities are in development across the state.

Long after the Sports Festival is over, these infrastructures will remain as long-term drivers of growth and economic development, and a testament to the vision and foresight of this administration.  

It is also important that the residents of Ogun State must begin to prepare themselves to harness the potentials that comes with the hosting the games as this is the only way to ensure that Government's post-festival sustainability plans and strategies bear fruits for the citizenry.

I believe this administration is poised to deliver a world class sporting event that would exceed expectations and ignite the state’s socio-economic engine.

Let’s go!
 
By: Tunde Delu
A Sports Enthusiast and Public Analyst

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) trains 1,000 Peace Mass Transit drivers on safe driving and customer service.

Peace Mass Transit (PMT), one of Nigeria's leading transport companies, has initiated a refresher training programme for 1,000 of its drivers at its Emene workshop in Enugu.

This training, which commenced on October 19, 2023, is being conducted in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and PMT's safety and customer service departments.

The primary objective of this training is to equip the drivers with the necessary skills and knowledge for defensive and safe driving while enhancing their customer service abilities. The training encompasses a wide range of topics, including traffic rules and regulations, vehicle maintenance, road signs and markings, speed limits, lane discipline, accident prevention and management, passenger rights and responsibilities, as well as communication skills.

Mr. Ifeanyi Enete, the General Manager of PMT, emphasised that this training is a part of the company's commitment to ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its passengers and other road users, particularly during the busy "Ember Months" when vehicular traffic surges nationwide.

He pointed out that PMT has been consistently providing training for it's drivers since it's establishment in 1994. This exercise is intended to refresh their knowledge and acquaint them with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Furthermore, Mr. Enete urged the drivers to capitalise on this opportunity to learn from experts and apply these lessons to their daily operations. He made it clear that PMT has a strict zero-tolerance policy for any indiscipline or negligence that might jeopardise the safety of customers or damage the company's reputation.

Mr. Enete expressed his gratitude to the FRSC for their collaboration in facilitating the training and commended the drivers for their dedication and professionalism. He assured them that PMT would continue to support them with incentives and welfare packages to motivate them to provide excellent service.

He also encouraged the public to choose PMT as their preferred transportation option, emphasising that the company offers reliable, affordable, and safe travel choices throughout Nigeria. PMT boasts a fleet of over 3,000 well-maintained buses equipped with modern amenities such as speed limiter, air conditioning, television, and tracking devices.

In addition, PMT operates a customer care unit to address complaints and feedback from passengers and provides an online booking platform where customers can conveniently purchase tickets and access information about the company.

11. CLIMATE CHANGE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THEPROTECTION OF THE NIGERIAN ENVIRONMENT

Section 1 of the 1999 Constitution as amended states, “This Constitution is Supreme and its provisions shall have binding force on all authorities and persons throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Section 4(1) states, “The legislative powers of the Federal Republic ofNigeria shall be vested in a National Assembly for the Federation which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representatives.”

Section 22 provides, “The press, radio, television, and other agencies ofthe mass media shall at all times be free to uphold the fundamentalobjectives contained in this chapter and uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people.’’

Section 20 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria states “The state shall protect and improve the environment and safeguard the water, air and land, forest and wildlife of Nigeria.” This section conveys a significant commitment by the Nigerian government to environmental sustainability and climate action.

This section also provides a legal foundation for citizens and environmental organizations to hold the government accountable for itsenvironmental actions or inaction. If the government fails to fulfill itsduty, individuals or groups may use this section to seek legal remedies. This was clearly established in the case of Centre for Oil Pollution Watch vs. NNPC (2018) Supreme Court of Nigeria. Furthermore, section 34(1) of the Climate Change Act 2021 provides “A person, or private or public entity that acts in a manner that negatively affects efforts towards mitigation and adaptation measures made under this act commits an offence and is liable to a penalty to be determined by theCouncil… A court before which a suit regarding climate change orenvironmental matters is instituted, may make an order to prevent,stop, or discontinue the performance of any act that is harmful to the environment.”

12. CLIMATE CHANGE NIGERIA’S CLIMATE CHANGE ACT 2021

The Nigerian Climate Change Act 2021, represents a significant legislative achievement aimed at addressing the pressing issue of climate change within the country. The act had its origins in the 6th National Assembly but was eventually passed and signed into lawduring the 9th National Assembly. Here is a brief overview of its historical development:

6th National Assembly (2007-2011): The initial discussion and consideration regarding climate change legislation in Nigeria actuallystarted in the 5th Assembly, but it was in the 6th National Assembly thata bill

was sponsored. While there were growing concerns about the impacts of climate change, including extreme weather events andenvironmental degradation, it wasn’t until the 9th Assembly that theefforts materialized and became an Act.

7th National Assembly (2011-2015): Despite some progress during the 6th Assembly, the proposed Climate Change Bill was passed in the 7th National Assembly, but was not assented to by the then President. Goodluck Jonathan GCFR.

8th National Assembly (2015-2019): During the 8th Assembly, there was a renewed focus on climate change and environmental sustainability. Accordingly, I sponsored the Bill on Climate Change in the 8th Assembly. Notwithstanding sustained bureaucratic ambush, thebill passed the House of Representatives and obtained concurrence in the Senate. This legislative cycle marked progress in the consideration of climate change legislation, nonetheless the then President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR withheld assent citing some reasons for his action.

9th National Assembly (2019-2023): The 9th National Assembly, which took office in June 2019, saw renewed efforts to address climatechange through legislation. The Climate Change Bill was re-sponsored by me, debated, and finally passed, first by the House ofRepresentatives and then by the Senate. The bill was eventually signed into law by the former President of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR on November 17, 2021, making it the Nigerian Climate Change Act 2021.

13. THE ROLE OF THE NIGERIAN MEDIA IN THEIMPLEMENTATION OF THE ACT

The Nigerian Climate Change Act 2021 is a product of years of legislative deliberations, refinement, and debate across several National Assemblies for nearly two decades. Its passage underscores the growing recognition of the importance of addressing climate change and environmental sustainability in Nigeria, aligning the country with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce its environmental impact. Part 1, Sec 1 states, “This Act provides a Framework for achieving low greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), inclusive green growth and sustainable economic development.” This legislative milestone signifies Nigeria’s commitment to climate action and serves as a framework for addressing climate-related challenges within the nation.

After the historic passage of the Nigeria Climate Change Act 2021, as the months passed, a crucial piece of the puzzle remained absent—the inauguration of the National Council on Climate Change.

The Climate Change Act 2021 stipulated the formation of the National Council on Change as the chief custodian of the Act’s implementation. Part II, Sec 3(1) states, “There is established the National Council on Climate Change (in this Act referred to as “The Council’’) which shall be vestd with powers to make policies and decisions on all matters concerning Climate Change in Nigeria.’’

The Council, comprising key stakeholders and government representatives, was entrusted with coordinating and overseeing all climate-related activities in the country. Its roles spanned from policy formulation to ensuring the mainstreaming of climate considerations into various sectors, fostering cooperation at both national and international levels.

Despite the Act being signed into law, there was an inexplicable delayin the establishment of the Council, which pushed the sponsor of the Act to write to the then Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the then Vice-President of Nigeria, the then Chief of Staff to the Presidentand a few other key functionaries of that government. While theurgency to address climate change grew stronger, progress seemed tobe stymied by bureaucratic hurdles and competing priorities.

14. THE MEDIA AND PARLIAMENT FOR CLIMATE ACTION:A NECESSARY COLLABORATION

In the intricate dance of legislation and advocacy, the passage of theNigerian Climate Change Act of 2021 stands as a powerful testament to the nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate action. This legislative milestone, rooted in Section 20 of the NigerianConstitution, has established a clear obligation for the government toprotect and enhance the environment, safeguard natural resources, and enact policies that promote sustainability.

The journey towards this landmark legislation was arduous, spanning multiple National Assemblies and bridging the intricate worlds oflawmaking and advocacy. The 9th National Assembly, which tookoffice in June, 2019, marked the final act, as the Climate Change Billwas reintroduced, debated, and eventually passed, culminating in its being signed into law by the former President of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari GCFR. This passage illuminated Nigeria’s recognition of the global imperative to combat climate change and mitigate its environmental impacts.

However, as the dust settled on the legislative victory, one essential piece of the puzzle remained unattended—the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change, the custodian of the Act’s implementation. The missing link served as a stark reminder that passing legislation is but the first step in the intricate process of addressing climate change. The council’s formation was critical for coordinated and effective execution of the Act’s provisions, transcending law into action.

During this time, the Nigerian media emerged as a powerful advocatefor the immediate establishment of the Climate Change Council. Recognizing the critical role this body would play in the effective execution of the Act, media outlets across the nation launched vigorous advocacy campaigns. They highlighted the environmental challenges Nigeria faced, from recurrent flooding to desertification and unpredictable weather patterns, emphasizing the impacts onagriculture, water resources, and the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians, forced migration and concomitant insecurity.

The media called attention to the global imperative of climate action,underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to international climate agreementsand the need to fulfill its obligations as a responsible member of the global community. The urgency of climate action, they argued, couldn’t be overstated, given the dire consequences of inaction for the environment and the Nigerian populace.

The call for the establishment of the National Council on Climate Change was not only about compliance with the law Nigeria passed forherself, but also about ensuring a sustainable future for the nation. Itwas a rallying cry for the development of a comprehensive and coordinated approach to tackle climate change, harnessing the expertise of scientists, policymakers, and various stakeholders.

As the media continued to advocate for the council, they emphasized the economic opportunities that could be unlocked through green initiatives, renewable energy, and sustainable practices. They highlighted success stories from other nations that had invested in climate-resilient infrastructure, conservation, climate smart agriculture and clean energy, reaping not only environmental benefits but also economic rewards.

The media also underscored the need for climate education andawareness among the citizenry, believing that a Climate Change Council would facilitate educational outreach and engage the public in climate action in line with section 26 of the Act. This section mandates MDAs responsible for regulating educational curriculum in Nigeria onthe integration of climate change into various disciplines and subjects across all educational levels. After all, addressing climate change isn’tthe responsibility of the government alone; it’s a collective effort that involves every Nigerian. That is precisely why the Council comprises members from Ministries, Departments and Agencies, key government functionaries from all tiers, the private sector, women, youth and people with disabilities.

The fervent advocacy of the media did not go unnoticed. It reached thehighest office in the land, capturing the attention of the President, who recognized the urgency of the situation. With a renewed sense of commitment and urgency, the National Council on Climate Changewas inaugurated by President Buhari, GCFR.

In this call for action, the Nigerian media demonstrated not only theirwatchdog role but also their power as catalysts for change. As the Climate Change Council finally takes shape, it is a testament to the crucial role the media plays in shaping national discourse, driving accountability, and championing the causes that impact the lives of all Nigerians. With the Council’s establishment, Nigeria is now better poised to fulfill its climate commitments, setting the stage for a more sustainable, resilient, and climate-ready future.

15. THE MEDIA AS AGENDA SETTER

I would like to commence this section with an old West African Examinations Council’s A-Level Government examination question, “Editorial opinion is public opinion.” Discuss.

One of the fundamental roles of the media is ‘agenda setting and leading transformation’. On the international scene, one unique event that clearly demonstrates, the agenda-setting and transformation role of the media is the scandal involving former United States President, Richard Nixon. The scandal is popularly known as the ‘Watergate Scandal’. The Watergate scandal stands as a quintessential example of the media’s agenda-setting power. Investigative reporting, notably by The Washington Post, brought this political crisis to the forefront of global attention. The media’s role in shaping public discourse and driving discussions about government accountability and transparency became evident. Watergate underscored the media’s capacity to set the agenda, revealing how journalism can profoundly influence the direction of dialogue and the course of history.

The Nigerian media has played this role effectively and I strongly reckon that they would continue in this laudable path. This role has greatly influenced the Nigerian legislature, but more importantly, it has transformed and enhanced awareness about the Climate Change Act and climate action, thereby influencing the recognition of my humble role in the climate change space in Nigeria through the sponsorship of the Nigerian Climate Law 2021

In Nigeria, the agenda-setting role of the Nigerian media played a pivotal role in the exit of two former Senate Presidents and a one-time Speaker of the House of Representatives, Salisu Buhari. Through in- depth investigative reporting and public awareness campaigns, the media exposed issues of misconduct and integrity, placing them at the forefront of public and political discourse. This empowered the public to demand accountability, ultimately resulting in the departures of these high-ranking officials.

As agenda setters, the Nigerian media has continued to lend its voice todevelopmental issues. This noble role led to the recognition of my commitment to climate change and action advocacy. In 2021, the Press Corps of the House of Representatives presented an ‘Award of Excellence’ in recognition of my excellent performance as the Dean of Bills/Most Dedicated Lawmaker of the Year 2021, due to my tenacity and commitment to the passage of the Climate Change Act. This was followed by another award in 2022 by the umbrella body of media practitioners in Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Legislative Awards for ‘Excellence on Bills and Motions’. Therecognition also extended to 2023, when the specialized international medium, Order Paper, considered me worthy as one of the fivelegislators to be recognized with VIP Rating on Bills Sponsorship and subsequent induction into the 9th National Assembly Most Valuable Parliamentarian (MVP) Hall of Fame. These awards and recognition have created more awareness and deepened the interest and commitment to issues of climate change and action.

The intersection of the media and the legislature in crafting the Nigerian Climate Change Act of 2021 is a vivid illustration of how collaboration can drive climate action. The legislature, through its law-making powers, laid the legal foundation for action. The media, as the Fourth Estate, took on the roles of advocacy, awareness, and accountability, ensuring that the government met its environmental responsibilities.

As Nigeria charts its course towards a sustainable, climate-resilient future, the media remains a pivotal partner in this transformative journey. Their role extends beyond advocacy; it includes the amplification of awareness about the act, its provisions, and the actions that individuals can take to contribute to climate resilience. They must be vigilant in holding the government accountable for the Act’s full implementation, investigating and reporting on the progress and challenges.

16. CONCLUSION

In this collaborative effort between the legislature and the media,Nigeria can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable, climate-resilient future. With the enactment of the Nigerian Climate Change Act of 2021 and the establishment of the National Council on ClimateChange, the nation stands on the cusp of significant change. The media, with their formidable reach and influence, can serve as the catalyst for a climate-conscious society, urging collective action and inspiring hopefor a greener, more resilient future.

As we move forward, the synergy between the media and the legislature is not just essential; it is transformative. It holds the potential to effect profound change, addressing climate change not as a distant challenge but as a collective responsibility. In doing so, Nigeria is poised to stand as a shining example of how a nation can work together to protect the environment, mitigate climate change, and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

I thank you for your time.

THE MEDIA, PARLIAMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE,PAPER PRESENTED BY REP. (SIR) SAM ONUIGBO FCIS, FNIM, KJW, CHAIRMAN, SECURITY, SPECIAL INTERVENTIONS AND CLIMATE CHANGE, GOVERNINGBOARD, NORTHEAST DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION(NEDC) DURING THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PRESS CORPS RETREAT HELD AT HASKE LUXURY HOTEL, TUNGA MINNA, NIGER STATE ON OCTOBER 19-21, 2023.

{Protocol}

1. PREAMBLE

I am delighted to be here on your invitation. Right away, let me thankthe Chairman and Executives of the House of Representatives Press Corps for organizing this retreat for the benefit of your hardworking Members. Your theme: “Role of the Media in Mainstreaming ClimateChange Policies,” is apt and germane to the current global conversations on climate change. I, therefore, commend you for this worthy engagement.

2. INTRODUCTION

The historical development of the Nigerian media and parliament represents a complex interplay of societal, political, and cultural forces. Each has a unique journey of growth, transformation, and adaptation, shaping the nation’s narrative in distinct ways. However, in recent years, a compelling intersection has emerged—a fusion of media and the parliament in pursuit of a common goal: climate action. Thispresentation explores the historical evolution of the Nigerian media andlegislature, and how their convergence has catalyzed a dynamic shifttowards addressing the pressing issue of climate change. It highlights the past, the present, and the collaborative future of these two influential pillars in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, united in the quest for “mainstreaming climate change actions in line with national development priorities,” for a sustainable and climate-resilient future.

3. THE NIGERIAN MEDIA – HOW IT ALL BEGAN

The history of the Nigerian media is a compelling narrative that reflects the nation’s journey from its colonial past to a thriving democraticsociety. From its inception as a tool of colonial administration to its evolution as a powerful platform for the dissemination of information, the Nigerian media has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s identity, education, politics, and social fabric. This brief presentation delves into the rich tapestry of the Nigerian media’s historicaldevelopment, examining its growth, challenges, and its profoundimpact on society, culture, and governance. As practicing professionalsin the field, together, let us embark on a journey through time to explore the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that have defined the Nigerian media landscape.

media engagements. Heposits that the initial form of media employed in Nigeria consisted oftraditional communication methods. These were the communicationchannels utilized by indigenous Nigerians prior to the arrival of colonial explorers on Nigerian shores. These traditional media, known by various names and categorized in multiple ways by contemporaryscholars, displayed unique styles in performing nearly all the functions that modern mass media fulfill today. These functions encompassed information dissemination, education, entertainment, developmental communications like climate action advocacy, and politicalcommunication and mobilization for electoral participation.Commencing with humble

origins, as exemplified by Rev. Henry Townsend’s ‘Iwe Iroyin Yoruba Fun Awon Egba,’ which commenced publication in 1859, and RobertCampbell’s ‘Anglo-African’ in 1863, the Nigerian media has evolvedinto a robust pillar that lends substantial support to both global and local developmental endeavors.

Patrick Ene Okon, author of ‘West Africa and the Europeans since the 15th Century: Essays in Honour of Patience Okwuchi Erim’ wrote onthe theme ‘Historical Development of the Mass Media in Nigeria:From Colonial Era to the Present’. Patrick confirms that Nigeria, a prominent West African nation with a population of nearly 230 million, has been significantly influenced by mass media since the colonial era. These non-personal channels of communication disseminateinformation to a large and diverse audience without interpersonalcontact. There are two major types of mass media: print and broadcast.Print media includes newspapers, magazines, newsletters, billboards, and posters, while broadcast media includes television and radio. Theemergence of the internet has added new media to the list. Thenewspaper press is the oldest mass media type and has played asignificant role in shaping Nigeria’s and many other nations’ histories.

The mass media are expected to fulfill several functions including providing information, instructing the public, promoting individual rights, maintaining economic equilibrium, providing entertainment, and preserving independence. However, the media can also adopt different approaches such as partisan, advocacy,adversary, liberal, independent, or interventionist journalism. Theseapproaches involve taking a stance on issues, crusading for causes, oropposing the government. The media and their personnel have the right to choose between a more active or neutral role in society.

4. THE EVOLUTION OF THE NIGERIAN MEDIA

During the colonial era in Nigeria, the mass media was greatly influenced by the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885. This conference onhow to partition Africa without her consent or contributions led toBritain’s conquest of Africa and the subsequent administration of Nigeria as separate Southern and Northern protectorates. The British exerted their political influence through trade, missionaries, and the introduction of modern education. The printing press played a crucialrole in mass-producing print media materials. The first printing press was established in Abeokuta in 1854. This was followed by the establishment of another press by Reverend Hope Masterton Waddellin 1867. Nationalists in Nigeria used

newspapers as a powerful tool tofight against colonial rule. Broadcast media was introduced in the UKin 1932 when the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) launchedthe first short-wave broadcasting service in Lagos. In 1956, the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation was incorporated, providing a regulatory framework for broadcasting. The television segment joined this development with the establishment of Western Nigeria Television (WNTV) in 1959.

During the colonial era, the broadcast media was government-owned, focusing on acting as the mouthpiece of government. However, print media, including newspapers owned by nationalists, took partisan, advocacy, activist, and adversary approaches. For instance, the Nigerian Pioneer, owned and edited by Sir Kitoye Ajasa in 1914, wasseen as defending governmental policies. Advocacy media, on the other hand, could achieve both positive and negative ends. Oneexample of this was the publication that allowed its professional position to be used to prosecute personal vendetta and vent grievances. Activist media focused on galvanizing people towards independence and self-government, with John Payne Jackson’s Lagos Weekly Recordbeing the most prominent. The Daily Times then called the NigerianDaily Times, took on the role of recommending nationalist journalists for prosecution, describing Herbert Macaulay as a sedition-monger,exploitation of the poor, and ignorant in the name of patriotism. The West African Pilot edited by Late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe also made massive contributions towards decolonization.

5. THE MEDIA IN THE FOURTH REPUBLIC

Nigeria’s governance has been inconsistent since its independence in 1960. From the January 15, 1966 coup d’etat to the death of late General Sanni Abacha in June, 1998, Nigeria was characterized by coups and counter coups and unstable civilian governments. However,Nigeria has experienced nearly a quarter of a century of unbroken democratic dispensation probably due to the mass media’s vigilant roles and contributions. The media has engaged in social, economic, health, and attitudinal change efforts, and has been effective in evoking patriotism and participation in development. It has significantly contributed to the accomplishment of this amazing feat. Under the democratic system in place in Nigeria, the media has demonstrated its ability to persevere against all challenges and take a proactive role in advancing the nation. Radio, television, and newspapers havecontributed significantly to the media’s efforts to improve society. The media has been able to gather news and information better due to the Freedom of Information Act 2011.

6. NEW MEDIA’S DEVELOPMENT AND CITIZEN JOURNALISM

The mass media sector is currently experiencing a process known as”functional displacement” as a result of the development of new media. Every time significant new media technologies are introduced, according to Baran & Baran, “they destabilize existing mediaindustries, forcing large-scale and frequently very rapid restructuring.” Additionally, McQuail claims that, “the Internet is gradually replacing many ‘traditional’ mass media functions, such as advertising, news, andinformation.” Today, not only in Nigeria but throughout the world, thisis what has been going on in the media. The capacity of modern mediato be interactive, which entails a two-way information flow through thecomputer between the user and the medium, is the single most remarkable feature of modern media.

7. THE NIGERIAN LEGISLATURE

The Nigerian Legislature is a critical component of the country’s governing structure and plays a pivotal role in the law-making process. Over the years, the Nigerian legislature has evolved to metamorphose into its current structure, a bicameral legislature, consisting of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Nigeria Legislature is an essential institution in the country’s democratic system, providing a forum for debate, negotiation, and decision-making on critical issues that affect the nation’s development.

8. HISTORICAL EVOLUTION OF THE NIGERIANLEGISLATURE

Lucky A. Tongs, Omololu Fagbadebo, and Mojeed Olujinmi in theirwell-researched book “The Legislature in Nigeria’s Presidential Democracy of the Fourth Republic”, informs that the National Assembly, as the principal legislative institution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has had a long history of institutional evolution dating back to June 1862, barely a year after the annexation of Lagos after a 10-year battle of conquests. The history of its growth anddevelopment is, therefore, intimately linked to and incorporates features of the British colonial administrative authority. Thus, thecreation of a crown colony in Lagos also witnessed the birth of the Lagos Legislative Council, which played an important role in colonial governance.

The amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates in 1914 formally established a united Nigeria. This did not alter much of the structure of the government beyond the unification of the two supreme courts that had previously operated in Northern and Southern Nigeria. In 1914, Sir Frederick Lord Lugard established the Nigerian Council, and remained in place until 1922 when Sir Hugh Clifford, composedthe Legislative Council. Sir Hugh Clifford dismissed the NigeriaCouncil in 1922 because it lacked legislative or executive authority. There was no legislative or executive authority attached to any council decisions that passed.

Sir Hugh Clifford’s 1922 Constitution which introduced the elective principle and established the Legislative Council remained the same body and was almost static throughout its 24-year history, from 1922 to 1946. The role of the Nigerian legislature remained largely unchanged throughout colonial rule; but the structure and composition of thecentral legislature in Nigeria changed from its inception in 1862 to its independence in 1960, with a mix of officials and nominated unofficial members. It should be stressed that the legislative council under, Sir Lord Lugard lacked legislative or executive power. The introduction of the elective principle under the Clifford Constitution gave three representatives to Lagos and one to the municipal part of Calabar with the extension of adult suffrage in the Southern part of Nigeria. The status of the unicameral legislature changed in 1958 with the establishment of the Senate.

Arthur Richardson’s 1946 constitution was opposed by Nigerian political elites because he stated that they were not politically matureand lacked the resources for self-governance. The opposition led to itseventual withdrawal. John MacPherson who replaced ArthurRichardson, set up a committee to draft a new constitution which wasenacted in 1951. That constitution gave rise to the creation of aunicameral central legislature in 1952 which is known today as the House of Representatives.

The Northern and Western regions had a bicameral legislature in 1946and 1951, respectively. The House of Representatives, (formerly central legislature) functioned from 1952, comprising unofficial members as well as a Council of Ministers. The bicameral legislaturefunctioned from 1960 to 1966, with the upper body (Senate) exercisingparticular powers not shared by the Federal House of Representativesunder the frameworks of the the1960 Independence and 1963Republican Constitutions. The parliamentary system between 1959 and January 15, 1966, adopted the characteristics of a fusion of executive and legislative powers because it was the party with the largest numberof elected members in the parliament that was called upon to form the national government.

9. THE CURRENT LEGISLATURE- THE NATIONALASSEMBLY

The authors further assert that Nigeria’s Legislature in the Fourth Republic is similar to the 3rd Republic legislature in terms of structure. Section 4(1) of the Constitution vested “the legislative powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in a National Assembly for the Federation,which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representatives.”

The bicameral legislature provides more legislators to have a voice in the legislative process. The Senate has 109 members (3 senators representing each of the 36 states, and 1 representing the Federal Capital Territory). The House of Representatives consists of 360 members representing federal constituencies in Nigeria. Section 58 of the Constitution empowers the National Assembly to make law through legislation passed by both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The president has to assent to the bill to become an Act of the National Assembly. This prerogative is what former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR exercised when he assented to the Climate Change Act2021 in order to lend his administration’s support to climate action.

10. CLIMATE CHANGE

Rachel Carlson, now regarded as the mother of the environmental movement in 1962 published ‘Silent Spring’ which brought the attention of the world to the negative impacts of the environment. TheUnited Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) defines climate change as a change that is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that latest the composition of the global atmosphere and addition to natural climate variability observed over comparable time periods

Climate Change has been variously described as a long-term change in the average weather patterns or conditions that have come to impact the Earth either by making it warmer, wetter, or drier over several decades. The negative effects lead to drought, desertification scrub in sea level, coastal erosion, gully erosion, wildfires, etc. those negative impacts lead to loss of livelihoods, etc.

Governor of Lagos State, Mr @jidesanwoolu at the #LagosFashionWeek 2023, closing the Emmy Kasbit show.

#LFW23 #BNStyleLFW23

#GreaterLagosRising

SCHOOL OF POSTGRADUATE STUDIES

Km 26, Abuja-Keffi Expressway, P.M.B. 005, Kodape, Karu, Nasarawa State.

ADMISSION INTO

PGD CROWD CONTROL & MANAGEMENT AND PGD INFECTIOUS DISEASE CONTROL PROGRAMMES FOR THE 2023/2024 ACADEMIC SESSION

Bingham University has commenced admission into the Postgraduate Diploma, Crowd Control and Management andInfectious Disease Control programmes as approved by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

PGD Crowd Control and Management

1. ​A minimum of five O’level credit pass including English Language and Mathematics.

2.​B.Sc. in any discipline in the Social Sciences or Management Sciences from an approved university.

3.​HND in any Social Sciences discipline from a recognized institution.

PGD Infectious Disease Control

1. ​Candidates must satisfy the minimum matriculation requirements of Bingham University, including five (5) O’levelcredit passes in relevant science subjects, including English Language and Mathematics.

2.​All applicants shall be required to have a good university degree or HND. Acceptable first degree courses includingmedicine, veterinary medicine, dental surgery, pharmacy, nursing, laboratory science, and other life/biological science courses.

Duration of Programmes: A minimum of two (2) semesters and a maximum of four (4) semesters.

Application forms are available online subject to the payment of a non-refundable fee of Fifteen thousand naira only (N15,000).

Visit the University’s website: https://binghamuni.edu.ng/pgadmission to apply.

All completed application forms should be forwarded to the Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies, Bingham University, Karu, along with:

i. National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Discharge Certificate, Exemption Certificate or Exclusion Certificate,

ii. Three (3) Letters of Reference,

iii. Official Academic Transcripts

iv. Photocopies of relevant credentials, and,

v. Duplicate copy of receipt of payment of the Application Form.

ENQUIRIES

Calls:​08062169155, 08066627637, 09066515579, 08036442235 and 08051779562; Email: secretary.sps@binghamuni.edu.ng or pgadmission@binghamuni.edu.ng, with the following details; first name, last name, amount paid, your phone number, and details of the enquiry.

Signed:

Nomtai M. Shera

Secretary, School of Postgraduate Studies