GOODWILL MESSAGE BY REP. (SIR) SAM ONUIGBO FCIS, FNIM, KJW, CHAIRMAN, SECURITY, SPECIAL INTERVENTIONS AND CLIMATE CHANGE, GOVERNING BOARD, NORTHEAST DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION (NEDC) DURING THE FIRST CONFERENCE ON ACCELERATING AGRICULTURAL ADAPTATION IN AFRICA IN ABUJA, NIGERIA, HELD AT THE ABUJA CONTINENTAL HOTEL, ON OCTOBER 16-18, 2023.
Agriculture employs more than half of Africa’s workforce out of which smallholder farmers constitute 60 percent of the population in low-income African countries. Africa has 60 percent of the world’s uncultivated arable land, and agriculture accounts for 30-40 percent of its GDP (According to World Bank and Africa Development Bank reports).
The North East Geopolitical Zone of Nigeria which occupies one-third of the country’s 923,769 square kilometres of land mass is very rich in agriculture because of its arable land. Nigeria is one of the eleven countries selected as intervention zones for the Great Green Wall in the Sahel region, and some of the states in the zone fall within the Sahel and Great Green Wall Belt. The Africa Union (AU), conceived the idea of a Great Green Wall in 2007 to combat desertification. Agriculture is the mainstay of the people of that zone. However, the impact of climate change in the region has led to drought, desertification, drying up of Lake Chad, loss of livelihoods, and forced migration which fuels insecurity and insurgency.
As the sponsor of Nigeria’s Climate Act and an advocate for climate change awareness and action, I cannot emphasize enough the urgency of this issue and the critical role that agriculture plays in Africa’s development, livelihoods, and sustainability.
Therefore, today, I stand before you to address a matter of utmost importance; “The future of African agriculture and the pressing Climate crises.’’ This is why the North East Development Commission (NEDC) where I am privileged to serve as the Chairman of the Security, Special Interventions, and Climate Change Committee of the Governing Board recognizes and prioritizes Agriculture as one of the pillars of the development agenda of the Commission to restore and sustain the livelihoods of the people of the zone. One approach to addressing climate change within the agriculture sector is Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA).
As the organizers of this first-of-its-kind conference have highlighted, agriculture is not merely an economic sector; it’s a lifeline for millions of people, particularly women who are the backbone of African agriculture. It is, without a doubt, a linchpin in achieving the sustainable development goals set out by the African Union’s Vision 2063 and the United Nations’ Agenda 2030.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has warned that Africa will bear the brunt of the unprecedented challenge from global climate change, and will consequently experience more frequent and intense heat waves, droughts, severe floods, storms, and wildfires, etc. which is likely to impact 90 percent of its population. These climate-induced disasters are causing food insecurity, forced migration, and pushing vulnerable communities to the brink.
The agricultural sector, responsible for almost one-quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions, is both a victim and a contributor to climate change. With climate change threatening to push 122 million more people into extreme poverty by 2030, we can no longer view agriculture and food security in isolation from climate action. Efforts to address climate change within the agricultural sector have been recognized globally, particularly through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the Paris Agreement.
Nigeria has taken a significant step forward with its Climate Change Act 2021, which now serves as a beacon of hope in addressing the complex challenges posed by climate change in the agricultural sector. By promoting nature-based solutions, conservation, and sustainable management of forests, Nigeria is leading the way towards a more climate-resilient future for agriculture.
For instance, section 26, among others, strongly prescribes the integration of Climate Change into various disciplines and subjects across all educational levels, while sections 27, 28, and 29 promote nature-based solutions, REDD+ Registry, and Natural Capital Accounts as strategies and practices that use natural ecosystems and processes to combat climate change.
Africa’s youth population is rapidly growing, and transformation in agriculture is essential to create economic opportunities. It is crucial to involve youth and women in sustainable agriculture practices to ensure food security, poverty reduction, and economic growth. Additionally, gender-sensitive approaches are needed to address climate change’s differential impact on women and men. The importance of these critical segments informed their inclusion as members of the National Council on Climate Change chaired by the President and Commander-in-Chief.
We acknowledge the pivotal role of the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and its potential to drive agricultural transformation and resilience across the continent. While CAADP has noble pillars, there are concerns that corporate interests have prioritized commercialization over resilience building, leading to inadequate funding for sustainable land management and water resources.
In his inaugural address, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR declared, “Agricultural hubs will be created throughout the nation to increase production and engage in value-added processing. The livestock sector will be introduced to the best modern practices and steps taken to minimize the perennial conflict over land and water resources in this sector. Through these actions, food shall be made more abundant yet less costly. Farmers shall earn more while the average Nigerian pays less.’’
I therefore commend President Tinubu for creating the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to ensure food security and a robust economy.
As advocates for climate action, we must applaud and support such initiatives that pave the way for a sustainable and resilient agricultural sector. It is through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions that we can mitigate the impacts of climate change and secure a better future for all.
Let us continue to work together to champion climate action, protect vulnerable communities, and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Let me conclude by thanking the organizers of this very important conference.
"It is now easier for a fish to survive outside water than for a terrorist to survive in Nigeria" - General Christopher MUSA, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Nigeria.
Last week, International Security Observers had also confirmed that Nigeria's Military had killed scores of wanted terrorists in Borno, Yobe, Kaduna and Kebbi State.
The CDS made his remarks about ongoing National security operations when he addressed troops at the Headquarters Theatre Command, Operation Hadin Kai at the Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno
He also asked the troops to show no mercy on anyone or group who wants young girls and boys to grow up in fear.
Bingham University announces Undergraduate admission for 2023/2024 Academic Session
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for admission into the University’s degree programmes.
Bingham University was established in 2005 by the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) to satisfy the yearnings for quality education in Nigeria. The University is committed to providing education that combines intellectual, moral and vocational education in order to produce total men and women who will impact positively on society.
Academic Programmes Available:
Faculty of Environmental Sciences B. Sc. Architecture B. Sc. Landscape Architecture B. Sc. Estate Management B. Sc. Environmental Management B. Sc. Quantity Surveying
Faculty of Education B. Ed. Guidance and Counseling B. Ed. Psychology Faculty of Arts B. A. Philosophy B. A. Religious Studies B. A. English and Literary Studies B.A Theology Faculty of Administration B. Sc. Entrepreneurship B.Sc. Accounting B.Sc. Business Administration B.Sc. Supply Chain Management B.Sc. Procurement Management Faculty of Social Sciences B.Sc. Mass Communication B.Sc. Economics B.Sc. Political Science B.Sc. Sociology B.Sc. Library & Information Science
Faculty of Law (LLB) Bachelor of Law
Faculty of Science and Technology B.Sc. Industrial Chemistry B.Sc. Physics B.Sc. Computer Science B.Sc. Biochemistry B.Sc. Microbiology B.Sc. Mathematics BSc. Industrial Mathematics B.Sc. Cyber Security B.Sc. Information Technology Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) Faculty of Clinical Sciences MBBS, Medicine and Surgery B. Sc. Public Health Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences B.Sc. Anatomy B. Sc. Physiology Faculty of Allied Health Sciences B. NSc Nursing Doctor of Optometry Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science B.Sc. Radiography
All candidates must have taken the 2023/2024 UTME Examination and obtained a minimum score of 150. The minimum qualification for Degree programmes is five (5) O/Level Credits in relevant subjects, including Mathematics and English at not more than two (2) sittings.
Direct Entry
Direct Entry admission candidates must have completed JAMB Direct Entry form, obtained five (5) relevant O/Level Credits including Mathematics and English at not more than two (2) sittings and an A/Level result (IJMB, National Diploma with a minimum of Lower Credit and Cambridge A/Levels result).
Completed Forms are to be submitted through the following steps:
Click the “Form submission” button. Print a hard copy of the submitted forms. Submit the hard copy to the Academic Office on or before the screening day. Note that candidates are required to submit the following along with their admission forms:
Character Assessment Form obtained online Applicant’s Confidential Report obtained online Guidance and Counseling Form obtained online UTME/DE Screening Assessment Form obtained online
2. Once an account has been created, an email containing an activation link will be sent to the specified email address during account creation.
3. After account activation, login to the portal and use the “My Payments” menu to access the application form payment page. While on the payment page, a transaction can be initiated using the “Pay with Remita” button after which a payment slip of N2000 will be generated.
4. The payment slip can be taken to any bank branch to complete the transaction or the applicant can just pay online using their ATM cards.
SUBMISSION OF COMPLETED FORMS:
1. After successfully completing the payment transaction, the online application forms will be accessible to them where they are required to fill and submit the forms using the “Form submission” button.
2. Print and submit the filled forms to the University’s Admissions Office on or before the day of the screening.
For technical enquiries and complaints, contact: registrar@binghamuni.edu.ng, webmster@binghamuni.edu.ng, systemadmin@binghamuni.edu.ng, 09013670234, with the following details: RRR No. First name, last name, amount, your phone number, and the details of the problem(s) encountered.
Screening commences at 9 a.m. prompt on screening days.
Venue for the screening is: Bingham University, Permanent Site, KM 26 Abuja-Keffi Express way, Kodape (Auta Balefi) New Karu, Nasarawa State.
REQUIREMENTS
Candidates are required to bring along the following:
Originals and Photocopies of their O’ Level and A’ Level results
2023 UTME result slip 2 passport size photographs Evidence of payment. Please note that Direct Entry (DE) Candidates are also required to bring their registration form printout. Being a Faith-based Institution, all candidates are to note that if admitted, adherence to School regulations is mandatory.
4TH POST UTME SCREENING EXERCISE
Pharmacy, Health Sciences Law, Education, Social Sciences, and Administration: Thursday, 19th October, 2023
MBBS and Basic Medical Science Environmental Science, Science & Technology and Art: Friday, 20th October, 2023
For further enquiries, please call: 09063414541, 08162288642, 07064483649, or 07065092268
*House C’ttee on works holds inaugural meeting, declares agenda
*assures of effective oversight on the Ministry of Works
The House of Representatives Committee on Works, Thursday, held its inaugural meeting at the main bowl of the National Assembly, Abuja; declaring its main agenda.
It also, assured of effective oversight of the Ministry of Works, to ensure, there is value for funds, appropriated for road construction and rehabilitation in Nigeria.
Chairman of the Committee Rep Akin Alabi gave the assurance during the inuagural meeting, saying: “With oversight of the Works Ministry and its agencies, there will be visible transformation on our road infrastructure.”
He further stated that the Committee, which has representatives from all the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) needs to be more productive and focused, due to challenges in the road sector.
He said the use of concrete may be considered and adopted by the committee for road construction against the use of asphalt which had led to deprorable state of road infrastructure in the country.
“It is my pleasure to welcome all Members to this inaugural meeting of the House Committee on Works.
“You have been carefully, selected by the leadership of the House, to represent each of the States in this committee.
“As you are all aware, Order Twenty (B), Rule 109 of the Standing Orders of the House, established the House Committee on Works with jurisdiction as oversight of construction and maintenance of Federal roads and bridges.
“Oversight of survey and mapping; Oversight of roads research; Oversight of Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, (OSGOF); Oversight of Council for the Registration of Engineering in Nigeria, (COREN); Oversight of Surveyors Council of Nigeria, (SURCON); Oversight of Federal School of Survey, Oyo State; Oversight of Regional Centre for Training in Aerospace Survey, (RECTAS); Oversight of the Ministry responsible for works and its parastatals, save those assigned to other committees, and Annual budget estimates.
“This committee, in this 10th Assembly needs to be much more proactive considering the myriads of challenges on our road infrastructure.
“As most of you must have watched with keen interest, the revelations coming from the Minister of Works from his tour of various roads projects across the country, I have no doubt that our job is well cut out for us.
“As parliament of the people, our intervention is very crucial to ensure that we ameliorate the sufferings of our people on the roads. We, as a committee, must come up with legislation, policies and interventions that will improve the situation on our road infrastructure.
“On every sitting day in the House, the committee receives nothing less than 2 to 3 referrals on motions from members drawing attention to roads infrastructure in their constituency, calling for attention. There is no doubt that the situation of our road infrastructure is highly deplorable.
“That is why we need to swing into action immediately. Though, the last government carried out some initiatives, policies and interventions on road infrastructure, we need to review some of these ideas and determine their work-ability or effectiveness in addressing our general concerns,” he stated.
The Committee Chairman also said in the last administration, the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund, (PIDF) managed by the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, (NSIA) and the Highway Management Development Initiative, (HDMI) under the guidance of Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission, (ICRC) were among several initiatives employed to improve road infrastructure.
“In line with the Legislative Agenda of this 10th Assembly, this committee will collaborate effectively with the Ministry of Works and its agencies to promote interventions that will bring about, rapid transformation on our roads.”
A Beacon of Unity: Dino Melaye and the Quest for Ethnically Inclusive Leadership in Kogi State
The persistent spectre of ethnic bias has cast a long shadow over the history of leadership in Kogi State. [/b]Concerns have regularly surfaced about governors hailing from specific senatorial districts disproportionately favouring their own constituents in government appointments and directing the state’s development projects towards their districts. [b]This disconcerting trend continues to persist, seemingly unabated. However, a glimmer of hope for change looms on the horizon as the November 11th, 2023, gubernatorial elections approach.
Kogi State is a mosaic of three intricately interwoven districts, each with its own distinct characteristics and identities. The state’s ability to remain united for 27 years is a testament to the collective goodwill of its people, rather than its leadership.
Throughout the state’s history, leadership has often favoured ethnic and racial interests over the broader interests of the state. Some argue that this bias is inherent, as it’s natural for individuals to gravitate toward their own ethnic groups when in positions of power. Others contend that while bias may be innate, it should not come at the cost of equity and peaceful coexistence. This latter perspective aligns with the view that past state leaders may have been hampered by their lack of prior experience in multicultural environments.
In this climate of uncertainty surrounding the state’s future leadership, voters must weigh their options carefully. Presently, the candidacy of Distinguished Senator Dino Melaye stands out as the most promising choice among the available options. With 23 years of diverse experience in various segments of national politics, he is undoubtedly the best-suited candidate to govern the multifaceted tapestry that is Kogi State.
Dino Melaye’s extensive record of advocating for social justice, ethnic cohesion, and integration makes him the ideal candidate to harness Kogi State’s diversity for unprecedented growth and development. His leadership qualities were evident during his undergraduate days at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he successfully led and unified the interests of thousands of students as the Students’ Union Leader. This ability to bring together people from diverse backgrounds propelled him to become a leader in the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). His accomplishments culminated in his election as Secretary General of the African Youth Council, where he secured the prestigious African Youth of the Year Award, outshining young trailblazers from 54 Commonwealth countries in 2005.
As a legislator, Senator Dino Melaye has forged relationships, networks, and connections across ethnic and party lines, all while recognizing national interest as a core priority. He firmly believes that sacrificing national interests for the sake of ethnic or party interests is sacrilegious. A significant testament to his commitment to ethnic cohesion came in June 2016 when he sponsored a bill in the National Assembly to abolish “State of Origin” certificates. Melaye argued that these certificates exacerbated divisiveness and were used as prerequisites for political office eligibility. Although the bill didn’t come to fruition, it underscored his dedication to fostering unity and oneness among Nigerians.
The upcoming gubernatorial election offers a golden opportunity for Kogi State to break free from the chains of unchecked ethnic interests that have marred previous years. What the state requires is a leader with unparalleled potential for fostering unity and inclusivity. That leader is Dino Melaye. LANRE TOLUHI Twitter: @MrRealMLT
The Africa Institute of Public Administration (AIPA), an affiliate of the London Bridge Business School has conferred an Honorary Doctorate Degree on Martha Agba.
On the occasion of the investiture ceremony while conferring the Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Administration DPA to Ms. Agba, lauded her outstanding personality.
It said: “We recognize your remarkable achievements and significant contributions to the field. This coveted accolade is a testament to your excellence as a top executive.”
For every political minded Kogite, this season calls for a deep introspection.
For some, it will take the intervention of God to ignite change in Kogi State; for others, it will take the power of our voter card to orchestrate this change. Either way, what is apparent is that there is a (strong) desire for change and this is not merely a debate but a widely held notion.
The question as to who is capable to orchestrate change- wholistic growth and development as opposed to what is currently obtainable is perhaps the most important question to ask. As I have come to understand it, the quality of our state's leadership is grossly deficient.
Kogi state, as it appears, needs more than just a technocrat, it needs someone who really understands some of our key peculiarities as a state entity and is capable of navigating the dynamics of our national politics to make much desired impact across board.
The significance of experience in all of these cannot be overemphasized. It would take one with years of practical political experience to drive the much desired change in Kogi State.
Arguably, there are 4 major Contenders of in the November 2023 Gubernatorial Election namely: PDP,- Sen. Dino Melaye, APC- Alhaji Usman Ododo, SDP- Alhaji Muri Ajaka, ADC- Hon. Leke Abejide. These Candidates have variously gained a certain level of momentum, igniting strong campaigns across the 3 Senatorial Districts.
The question remains, who is fit for the Confluence Job? The Confluence Job is absolutely a rigorous one, which will, among other things include remedying systemic rots of many years, infrastructural decays and alot more. Hence, There is so much clarity required to answer the above question, such clarity must be devoid of sheer ethnic, political and social sentiments.
Out of the aforementioned candidates, Distinguished Sen. Dino Melaye is clearly the most positioned in relation to the issues raised in the preceding paragraphs.
From his days as a Students' Leader at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University to being appointed by the then President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo as Leader of the Presidential Advisory Council on Youths and Anti Corruption; and later as Member HoR, then Senator respectively, Melaye has transversed many areas of political leadership through series of political engagements.
As a Senator, representing the good people of Kogi West in the 8th National Assembly, Melaye sponsored about 20 “people-centered bills”, with issues cutting across Education, the Welfare of PWDs, Domestic violence, Extra-judicial killings, discrepancies in subsidy and matters relating to the general economy.
In 2012, Senator Dino Melaye registered the Anti-Corruption Network, an Advocacy group which is affiliated to an array of Non-governmental Organizations in 54 Countries across the globe.
Through this group, Melaye has canvassed for outright good governance that is devoid of any form of corrupt activities; where necessary, he has used the tool of this network to institute legal actions against prominent players in government in order to redress varying issues of financial misappropriation, lack of accountability and general issues of gross misconduct.
In 2017, he released a book titled, “Antidotes For Corruption: The Nigerian Story” which in many ways detail different evangelistic know-hows that is capable of helping Nigeria combat corruption.
In ways that may be too numerous to mention, Senator Dino Melaye espouses a mixture of unrivaled experience, exposure, education to be one of Kogi's most qualified candidates for the forthcoming Gubernatorial election.
While the other candidate may have had their own fair share of political engagement, available facts are that, none is as eventful as the road traveled by Senator Dino Melaye.
While a voter's prerogative is uncompellable, the collective pains shared by all Kogites should make us to choose well this time. The issues surrounding non-payment of salary, poor infrastructure, unholy state recruitment exercise and poor security have become too rampant in Kogi State and the consequences are suffered by all.
As a state, we are a crucial time to salvage our situation and rewrite our narrative as a people. Undoubtedly, we have to choose wisely.
Three Nigerians music acts, described by Globacom as “role models who have gone through the grind to stand on the highest pedestal of their dreams”, signed agreement as Glo brand ambassadors at a colourful ceremony at the company’s corporate headquarters in Lagos.
They include Ahmed Ololade, globally known by his brand name, Asake, is a graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State, while Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe, the Buga exponent, generally known as Kizz Daniel, has a degree in Water Engineering from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The third new Glo ambassador, Chike as he is called by his fans, was born as Chike Ezekpeazu Osebuka.
He is a graduate of Computer Engineering, from Covenant University, Ogun State.
The company, which marked its 20th anniversary in August stated that it “is celebrating this with the endorsement of these new ambassadors to project the power of youth and enterprise and how much they can achieve with the right focus, passion and dedication that can come from seeing others who have succeeded. This is very much part of our tradition as we believe the strength of a nation lies in the ability and potentials of its youth”.
It explained that the engagement of the new brand icons “is meant to project the best Nigerians as models for younger people who are tirelessly aspiring to succeed. This is more important in an era where positive heroes and mentors are scarce and hard to come by. The intention is not just to promote the growth of music, Nollywood and sports where we have been very prominent, but also to encourage our teeming youths to aspire toward realizing their dreams by looking up to these ambassadors as mentors”.
Globacom, which since inception has always sponsored major events and supported talented as well as enterprising young Nigerians by making them Glo ambassadors, explained that this innovation has become a practice for which Globacom has always led the way in Nigeria.
Congratulating them, Glo which stated that “having these stars as ambassadors of is our way of inspiring a whole generation of young people with vision who can do better and achieve more without losing hope along the way, even when confronted with challenges,” pledged to continue to promote the sector as it held great prospects to promote Nigeria to the world and also transforming lives.
On their part, the new ambassadors promised to represent the Glo brand by projecting the ideals of the company at all times.
They thanked the founder and Chairman of Globacom, Dr Mike Adenuga Jr., for considering them worthy of being appointed as the company’s brand ambassadors.
Oke Umurhohwo Foundation’s Back To School Campaign Brings Hope And Smiles To the People of Ughelli
The Oke Umurhohwo Foundation, a dedicated non-profit organization committed to breaking the cycle of poverty through access to education, good healthcare, and equal opportunities, has successfully concluded its Back to School Campaign in Ughelli, Delta State.
In a collaborative effort with compassionate individuals from across Nigeria, the campaign extended its reach to primary schools across three diverse Ughelli communities. The primary aim was to provide essential school supplies to underprivileged students, ensuring not only access to education but also equipping them with the necessary tools for their educational journey.
Contributions That Made a Difference
Through a generous response to the call for sponsorship, an impressive array of school items was assembled, including 2000 exercise books, 50 school bags, 45 reading guides, 150 school uniforms, and approximately 700 stationeries.
Under the dedicated leadership of Edima-Sharon Bassey, the foundation’s team visited Ighrwovie Primary School, Ekuigbo Primary School, and Ujode Primary School to distribute these much-needed supplies. Upon arrival, the team was faced with the harsh reality of the schools’ conditions – dilapidated infrastructure, crumbling roofs, overgrown surroundings, and classrooms filled with broken desks.
From Despair to Delight Despite these challenging circumstances, the success of the Back to School Campaign was a source of immense pride for the Oke Umurhohwo Foundation. The warm reception in the communities and schools touched their hearts deeply. Most importantly, they witnessed the joy and hope brought to the students’ faces. As the students received their school items, their eagerness was palpable. They wasted no time in putting on their new uniforms, filling their school bags, and clutching their exercise books and stationeries, all in eager anticipation of resuming their studies.
The Oke Umurhohwo Foundation
On a one-on-one with the visionary of the Oke Umurhohwo Foundation, Mr. Oke Umurhohwo expressed his gratitude to the supporters, stating, “Education is the cornerstone of a brighter future, and through our Back to School Campaign, we are taking significant steps toward empowering these young minds to dream big and achieve their goals. The impact we make today will shape the leaders of tomorrow.”
The team leader, Edima-Sharon Bassey also shared her thoughts, saying, “This campaign was a heartwarming experience for all of us. Witnessing the transformation from despair to delight in the eyes of these children is a testament to the power of collective effort. Our commitment to these communities extends beyond this campaign, and we look forward to further improving infrastructure and ensuring access to quality education.”
The Oke Umurhohwo Foundation remains steadfast in its mission to create a brighter future for underprivileged communities by breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
September marks a fresh beginning for children across Nigeria as they return to school, needing essential educational materials such as school uniforms, notebooks, school bags, textbooks, and even new shoes. The responsibility of providing these items typically falls on the shoulders of parents and guardians who understand the paramount importance of education in their children’s lives. In a heart-warming display of corporate social responsibility, itel, Nigeria’s leading mobile phone brand, has stepped forward to ensure the nation’s youth receive the support they deserve.
Through their Love Always On CSR initiative, itel recently extended a helping hand by donating mobile libraries, textbooks, storybooks, school bags, and various educational materials, along with essential food items, to over 1,100 children of Aina Memorial School and Meidan Nursery and Primary School in the Mile 12 axis of Lagos, Nigeria. Having a history of philanthropy, itel has consistently given back to different communities and schools over the years, firmly believing in the significance of nurturing the potential of young minds. It comes as no surprise that the brand chose to donate items that directly contribute to the educational development of these children.
The event was attended by itel staff, volunteers, and educators from the three schools, creating a vibrant atmosphere of unity and support. With over 1,000 children benefiting from itel’s latest charitable mission, it is evident that the brand is deeply committed to its communities, providing them with the necessary tools for a brighter future.
Veeki Chen, itel’s Country Manager, expressed his dedication to this cause, stating, “We have always had a soft spot for children at itel. And with our Love Always On CSR initiative, we are especially dedicated to creating opportunities for them and supporting their dreams. We plan to donate more libraries and educational items to schools nationwide because we believe this is our responsibility as a brand.”The teachers from the recipient schools were overwhelmed with gratitude, expressing their astonishment at the scale of itel’s gesture.
“This is beyond what we expected. For itel to do something like this for three schools in one day, we are thankful,” shared one of the children’s teachersitel’s Marketing Manager for West Africa Region 1, Oke Umurhohwo, commented on this initiative, saying, “Through our Love Always On CSR initiative, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children. We understand the vital role education plays in shaping the future, and we are committed to providing the necessary support to ensure these young minds have the tools they need to succeed.” itel continues to set new standards for corporate responsibility, leaving us curious about its next move. What more can we expect from a brand that consistently strives to make a positive impact on society at large? Only time will reveal the next chapter of itel’s touching journey.
Immediate past Rivers State Governor and Nigeria's FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike was a special guest at the court of appeal 2023/2024 legal year celebration held in Abuja on Monday.
The FCT minister who is also a Life Bencher later joined other eminent Nigerians to witness the commissioning of the court of appeal training center and fire station inaugurated by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, as one of the activities marking the court of appeal legal year.
A leading gas company, UTM Offshore Ltd, owner of Nigeria’s first Floating Liquified Natural Gas (UTM FLNG) company has x-rayed the policy thrust of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration and expressed optimism that the administration would revamp the nation’s productive sector.
The Managing Director of UTM Offshore Ltd, Dr. Julius Rone, at the weekend said Tinubu’s commitment while speaking to international oil and gas stakeholders at the sideline of the just concluded 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA, was a major boost to the Nigerian energy sector.
The UTM boss hinted that leveraging on the policies of the administration, his company has intensified collaborations with world-class energy conglomerates as part of its effort to ensure affordable gas in the country.
Rone, who had already signed a Head of Terms (HoT) with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited as well as Front End Engineering Design contract with JGC Corporation of Japan, Technip Energies of France and Kellog Brown & Root KBR of United Kingdom, believes that such collaboration would leapfrog gas production, drastically reduce the price of gas for home, automobile and industrial use, provide jobs as well as lower gas flaring and its attendant hazards in the country.
He expressed confidence in the ability of indigenous energy companies to collaborate with other conglomerates across the world to fast-track the development of the Nigerian gas sector. The UTM MD assured that the floating LNG project would create over 7,000 jobs opportunities and support other efforts to accelerate the nation’s economic growth in line with the commitment and policy thrust of the Tinubu-led administration. He said when completed the facility would produce, on annual basis, 1.5 million tonnes of LNG for export, 300,000 metric tonnes of LPG for domestic market and some quantities of condensate.
He commended the Tinubu administration for its commitment in providing access to clean, accessible, affordable, available and abundant energy for all Nigerians and reiterated UTM’s commitment to partner the federal government to realise this agenda.
Tinubu had while speaking to officials of the global transnational Oil and Gas giant, ExxonMobil on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA last week, gave assurance that the federal government was poised to solve the challenges of the oil and gas sector in Nigeria.
“Despite many contending obligations, I’ll sit and oversee the process of removing these encumbrances to job and wealth creation for the Nigerian people…We know the industry. We grew up. We are positioned to solve the problems and we are pragmatic and we’ll solve the problem”, the president had assured the international stakeholders according to a statement issued by Presidency
During the G-20 meeting taking place at New Delhi, India, Nigeria secured an additional $1Billion investment pledge. The Indian Government says that the money will be used to assist Nigeria’s security chiefs to reach their goal of manufacturing more locally made military weapons.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, met President Bola Tinubu before he left for India. It was reported that the other service chiefs had backed the request of the CDS for further investment in local production of military equipment.
“…but more than anything else, our collaboration with India will now strengthen the Armed Forces of Nigeria” – Gen. Christopher Musa
In light of the ongoing investigation into the activities of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), all senior officials of the Central Bank are being interviewed by the DSS and the appointed special investigator. The deputy governors are not exempt from this exercise and have all been called upon to provide essential information at different points in time. It is important to emphasize that this is standard procedure aimed at assisting the ongoing probe.
In a phone conversation with a close family member of the deputy governor FSS who is not authorised to speak on this matter, it was confirmed and clarified that the Deputy Governor is safe and sound. "I wish to reassure everyone that Aishah Ahmad is home with her family and not detained by the DSS. She is safe and sound."
In these times, it is essential to maintain clarity and rely on verified information only. Mrs. Ahmad's cooperation with the authorities is a demonstration of her commitment to transparency and due process. It is crucial that the public exercise discretion when evaluating news reports and avoid engaging with unfounded rumours or misinformation.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) plays a vital role in the nation's economic stability, and it is imperative that the investigative process is allowed to run its course.
Deputy Governor of CBN, Aishah Ahmad, is not under arrest
Ourattention has been drawn to a maliciously concocted piece in a section of the social media with the caption “Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno Rejects Presidential Tribunal Judgement, Alleges Bias and Fraud Amid His Educational Qualification Scandal“ written by a certain Manfred Ekpe.
We could have ignored the intentional cocktail of lies and blatant falsehood contained in the noxious article, but for the malicious intent the article purports, we wish to state as follows:
The writer of the article is a known agent-provocateur and a serial blackmailer who sits in the comfort of his home outside the country to manufacture falsehood, lies and vile blackmail to satisfy his political sponsors.
We wish to state unequivocally that the story is false and a maliciously fabricated blackmail.
His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Governor, Akwa Ibom State, holds the judiciary in the highest esteem and believes deeply in his heart, that the institution, represents the last hope of the common person.
The nation knows that Governor Umo Eno, is a unifier and does not engage in glib talks.
Manfred Ekpe, it must be stated,is a known and unapologetic supporter of a defeated gubernatorial candidate in the State.
We wish to remind him that politics is over and governance has begun in earnest. Governor Umo Eno is demystifing governance and winning hearts all over the State and the Nation, showing in practical terms that his choice was definitely divinely inspired.
Members of the public should therefore, discountenance the falsehood and dismiss the vile propaganda by this known serial blackmailer.
Signed: Ekerete Udoh Chief Press Secretary to Governor Umo Eno September 9th, 2023
CBN Under Investigation: Alleged Financial Crimes and Social Media Smear Campaigns Unfold
In recent days, Twitter has been buzzing with a whirlwind of accusations and counter-accusations involving alleged financial misconduct at the highest levels of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). These developments stem from ongoing investigations conducted by the Department of State Services (DSS) and a specially appointed investigator, tasked by President Tinubu, to delve into the operations of the CBN under the leadership of Godwin Emefiele.
The investigations are poised to scrutinize nearly every facet of the bank’s operations, bringing into question the activities of its top officials during their regular duties. However, what has become particularly intriguing is the emergence of smear campaigns on social media platforms. It appears that human nature’s propensity to engage in self-destructive behaviors is on full display.
Social media battalions have commandeered the blogosphere, engaging in a back-and-forth of allegations and counter-allegations. One notable instance occurred when Kingsley Obiora, the Director-General of Economic Policy, was detained for questioning. A vocal faction rushed to his defense, asserting that his detention was motivated by tribal considerations, citing his status as the sole economist on the team. This argument seemed to imply that this fact absolved him or others from any potential wrongdoing.
The situation has evolved into a contest to sway public opinion, with the less discerning readily accepting information without critical analysis. In reality, what is unfolding is a response to a presidential directive to investigate the entire bank, not just individual officials.
Recently, there have been clearly sponsored tweets aimed at tarnishing the reputation of DG Aishah Ahmad, the youngest and only female Director-General at the CBN. These allegations would be shocking if they weren’t so patently false. Aishah Ahmad, a highly educated, renowned banker with an impeccable pedigree, has built a solid reputation for professionalism while leading numerous financial institutions. There’s no reason to believe that her leadership at the Central Bank would be any different.
It’s important to recognize that those vehemently fighting to divert attention from themselves are often those with the most to hide. The public should view these smear campaigns for what they are: baseless attempts to distract from the ongoing investigations. It is imperative to allow the authorities to carry out their duties without undue interference.
DSS is investigating a mega economic fraud involving Olam Nigeria Limited, Olam International and their nine subsidiaries to the tune of over $50billion.
In a chain of round-tripping foreign exchange deals since 2015, the company, through its Special Purpose Vehicles, SPVs, had booked about $34 billion with the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, as capital importation at official rates.
But instead of investing the money into the Nigerian economy, sources said the company round-tripped the forex and sold to business men, especially oil and gas marketers and industries such Indorama and Fouani, at parallel market rates.
Investigation revealed that Olam usually directed the forex buyers to lodge the naira equivalent into the account of one or many of its SPVs during the period under review. Although some of the companies have fictitious Nigerians as directors, the accounts are solely managed by the Indian expatriates, some of whom are based in Europe and Asia.
As the SSS opens probe into the FX fraud and anchor-borrower scheme deals that took place under the suspended governor of CBN, Godwin Emefiele, the country’s secret police has uncovered a chain of shell companies linked to Olam.
sources said security agents uncovered traces of transfers into accounts controlled by Aminu Yaro, one of the ‘fronts’ of the embattled CBN governor.
Mr Yaro, who was previously investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been in SSS detention since July 12.
Findings revealed that the SSS had invited some expatriates, including the MD/CEO of Olam Nigeria Limited Ashish Pande and some top officers of the company, namely Prakash Kanth, Sudhir Goenka, Niraj Shah, Chandrasekran Balaji and Venkataramani Srivathshan.
The SSS also invited the Chief Financial Officer of Crown Flour Mill Limited, Rajeesh Damodaram Valagulam. According to sources, Crown Flour Mill Limited is one of the major Olam subsidiaries in Nigeria. According to insiders, Olam Nigeria Limited and their subsidiaries are the key FX speculators that contributed to the declining value of Nigerian currency, naira.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uD67N6uT6Yk Earlier today (September 8, 2023) on the Morning Show, Mr Rufai Oseni alleged that AriseTV was the only station that broadcast the incidents leading up to the #LekkiMassacre #EndSARS affair live. He was sharply and immediately corrected by his senior colleague, Dr. Reuben Abati, who told him he was exaggerating and that other stations covered the affair.
An unprofessional argument ensued on the live programme, which ended with Dr. Abati asking Rufai to be moderate and then calling an abrupt commercial break.
Peeved at being called out on air, Kr Oseni went on the X, formerly known as Twitter platform, to accuse a certain media person, whom he refused to name, of being a liar and insisted that only AriseTV broadcast live on that day.
Former Presidential spokesperson and bestselling author Pastor Reno Omokri then produced video evidence of Channels TV broadcasting live on the days of the incident in question (October 20 and 21, 2020), and viewers could even hear gunshots in the background as the live footage, with a Channels correspondent ran.
It remains to be seen how Mr. Oseni would respond to this video evidence, which clearly contradicts his claims.
Number one bestselling author and former aide to ex president Goodluck Jonathan, pastor Reno Omokri has said that Arise Tv and it’s journalist, Rufai Oseni lied about Chicago State University denying President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement via his X (Twitter) handle, pastor Omokri noted that contrary to the journalist’s claims, that the institution never denied Tinubu.
His statement reads thus:
“Rufai Oseni, a presenter on AriseTV’s The Morning Show, stirred the hornet’s nest when he claimed on Tuesday, November 22, 2022, that Chicago State University was hit with a subpoena, and based on that document, they disclaimed Bola Tinubu’s academic records. This was three months before the Presidential election.
Mr. Oseni then claimed on air that he had sourced that ‘fact’ from The Vanguard newspaper.
However, independent investigations have shown that Chicago State University deposed to an affidavit on August 23, 2023, upholding Mr. Tinubu’s academic standing as an attendee and graduate of their institution.
Also, checks on The Vanguard show that the newspaper never reported what was credited to it by Mr. Oseni, a known supporter and campaigner of Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party and a rival of President Bola Tinubu.
To date, neither AriseTV nor Mr. Oseni has done a corrigendum correcting this non-factual statement made and passed off as news to the Nigerian public.
Moreover, several Nigerians have published documents they received from Chicago State University affirming that Bola Tinubu attended and graduated from their university, including former Presidential spokesman and bestselling author Reno Omokri and popular columnist and US Professor Farooq Kperogi.
Some have suggested that passing off untruths to the public about a candidate in an election is tantamount to election interference.”
Organizers of the Gateway Games, 2024 have launched their quest for creative groups to produce show-stopping Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the next National Sports Festival. This follows the inauguration of the Local Organizing Committee for the Games by Governor Dapo Abiodun last month.
“Ogun State is not just the educational capital, we’re also the creative capital of Nigeria and there’ll be so much local talent and inspiration for our ceremonies production team to draw upon to tell the Ogun State story,” Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, Chair of the Protocol and Ceremonial sub-committee said. “An Expression of Interest is the first phase in recruiting the production team.”
The 2024 Games are the second to be hosted in Ogun State and organizers are challenging creative industries to use the tender as “an opportunity to think differently.” “Ogun is a trailblazer in all respects and that’s what I want the nation to see during our opening and closing ceremonies,” Sarafa-Yusuf added.
Organizers say that the Ceremonies team will be involved with everything from bringing up creative ideas and collaborating with people, to overseeing auditions with local artists and managing the technical aspects of the production.
“Our vision is that Gateway Games 2024 will honour the different cultures of the predominant ethnic groups in Ogun State, recognize their representatives in formal protocols, and share the history and contemporary stories of our state. “
Mrs. Sarafa-Yusuf who, for many years, as Globacom’s Head of Sponsorships spearheaded the telecoms company’s organization of the Glo-CAF Awards and the Glo-Lagos Marathon added: “We want experts because our athletes and performers deserve ceremonies that run like clockwork- truly world class events. We want well scripted, seamlessly executed and interactive ceremonies. This is also a creative exercise, so we want the team that can really get to the heart and soul of the Gateway State; share its stories and showcase our galaxy of stars”
The Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta is set to be the venue for both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2024 National Sports Festival.
Ogun State also hosted the National Sports Festival in 2006; an endeavor which was generally regarded as one of the best ever organized in Nigeria.
In the heart of Ado-Ekiti, is a magnificent building called the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, located at Fajuyi.
The Beautiful Mall has spaces that can be *let out* for Shopping Mart, Cinemas, Theatre Hall, Restaurants, Night Clubs, Sky Bar, Lounge, Gym, Spa, Seminar Rooms, Boutiques, Office Spaces, Unisex Saloon, and Games Arcade.
The Obafemi Awolowo Civic and convention centre is in a prime environment which guarantees the safety of life and properties. In addition to this, the Civic Centre has modern topnotch facilities which include 24-hour electricity supply with standby generating sets, security personnel, elevators, ample parking space, and ATM galleries.
Oluwabukolami Adeyemi and Mmesomachukwu Okonkwo, both teenagers and students of Chrisland School, recently put Nigeria on the global map as they received the British Council Outstanding Cambridge Learner’s Awards, following their stellar performance in the 2022 Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge AS Level Examinations. The duo spoke with YEJIDE GBENGA-OGUNDARE on the feats and the opportunities opened to them.
I am 18 years from Ega in Kogi State and a student of Chrisland Pre Degree College, Lagos.Unlike Mmesoma, I did not write IGSCE, I wrote Cambridge International AS levels Law exam commonly known as Cambridge A Levels, Prior to writing that exam, I have never done any other Cambridge exams, so it was quite strange to me when I started preparing for it, but I had support from my teachers and principal, Dr Agomoh and my parents. With A Levels, there is a lot of independent study that has to be done, so I had to prepare for my summer in 2022 to prepare for the exam coming up in October. Throughout July and August, I was in school preparing for exams, I had to do past questions, analyse the maths scheme and read a lot of textbooks. I put in a lot of hard work and sacrifice as I couldn’t do a lot of what I was doing when everyone was on holiday, but I think everything just worked together for my good.
Why are you being celebrated?
I am being celebrated because I recently received recognition for an award from British Council and Cambridge International Assessment Education for having the highest mark in the world in Cambridge International AS Level Law, that is Top in the World Cambridge International AS Level Law and High Achievement Award in Cambridge International AS Level Psychology.
What is the next thing for you?
A levels is a step further than IGSCE, so it’s giving me direct entry into the university in the UK. That means I have only three years to study Law in a university in the UK. So I think the next big thing is for me to take opportunity of the admission I have gotten and resume school and continue to further my academic journey. I have numerous offers from schools in the UK, so in due time, I will pick my choice.
What’s your Chrisland experience like?
My Chrisland experience started when I was one year old; I attended preschool, nursery and primary school in Chrisland School, Ladipo Oluwole. Afterwards, I left high school and came to Chrisland for my Cambridge A levels which is what I did in Chrisland pre-degree college. It was a very welcoming environment. I didn’t resume early, but I had people who were trying to get me into the system fast like the housemistress, A levels coordinators and lecturers and helped me to settle into the system properly. Academically, I would say the lecturers were intentional about everybody’s individual journey.
Mmesomachukwu Okonkwo
I am 17 years old and from Anambra State. We wrote the exam in May/June last year, six subjects for most of us. This year, I went to the British Council to receive the Top in the World award for English IGSCE as a second language. So out of the millions of students that wrote the exam, I emerge as Top in the World in English; the English exam was theory, there was no objective. It was in three parts, all theory. We had to do writing and listening and speaking for the exam. While preparing for the exam, there were challenges, as I said it was theory-based and one of my first exam, unlike my WAEC exam which was theory and objective. It was a bit daunting for me.
What’s the next step?
The next thing for me is to go to the university to study Business Management. Hopefully by this time next year, I will be studying the course. I am also thinking of internships and learning a few skills as well before going to school.
Why the choice of study Business Management?
I chose this because it is something I am passionate about and I feel I could do it very well. I started a small business when I was in year seven or eight and it was something I loved doing. I also feel that business management is very versatile. So in a world where Artificial Intelligence is emerging more and more, you want to take a course that is versatile and you can move around with.
If you were to choose any other course, what would it be?
I would journalism because it is not necessarily an English -based course but with my knowledge of English, I will use it to write as well. So I think I will like to do journalism
How was your English before now?
I have been doing very well in English and it is my best subject. Sometimes I get the best in English Language in my set and some other English awards such as best essay writer, etc.
How did you prepare for the exam?
There was a preparation I did with my mates at school. Not everyone took the exam, only a few students who were interested did, so they separated us; while the regular students did school work, we in the other classroom had educators coming to take us in all the six subjects that we offered. We would spend the time doing past questions on Cambridge website; we would have mock exams similar to IGSCE. Our teachers will make us pick a few topics on essay writing; I think that was what really helped. I treated the past questions one by one until I covered most of it.
Which countries are you looking up to study?
United Kingdom and United States.
What’s your Chrisland experience like?
Chrisland is all I have always known, not only because of the academic backing that we got, my teachers in particular have been helpful from the start, part of the reason why I am always motivated to do well. I also enjoyed the extracurricular activities. They are always looking for experiences to make us grow. Aside from the school things we do, we go out for multiple debates, competitions and arts as well. So they are always getting us involved in things that will incite our passion.
The foundation was recieved by the in- charge of the center DCP Christopher Jen who applauded and appreciated the foundation for their support . In her opening remarks the Executive Director of the Foundation Mrs Kanayo Olisa-Metuh stated that the importance of Sports cannot be over emphasized. She stated that studies have shown that sports helps to reduce depression and generally helps the physical and mental wellbeing. She stated that the foundation is hosting the tournament to help encourage inmates to engage in physical activities and exercise especially this period when court is on vacation and are idle.
The foundation supported the inmates with sports wears, footballs, volleyballs and other items to make the tournament a success.
Politics / Onuigbo Decries Impact Of Climate Change On Food Security by AnonPoet: 6:49pm On Oct 16, 2023