₦airaland Forum

The Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, says the Southeast ranks among the regions with the highest human trafficking infractions in the country.

Waziri-Azi said this on Monday at the opening of a one-day workshop organized in Enugu by the International Centre for Migration Policy Development, ICMPD, in partnership with NAPTIP.

He was represented at the event by the Director of Research and Programme Development in the agency, Mr Josiah Emerole.

The NAPTIP boss said the essence of the workshop was to validate the report of the baseline carried out for the advocacy project by NAPTIP and ICMPD.

The ICMPD is an intergovernmental organization with headquarters in Vienna, Austria, with 20 member states.

According to him, the project was carried out in the five states of Enugu, Edo, Delta, Benue and Ogun.

Waziri-Azi said that Enugu was chosen as one of the pilot states because of the high rate of human trafficking in the zone.

He described human trafficking as the second major crime in the world but regretted that “Nigerians see it as a minor crime.”

He encouraged stakeholders to pool resources and collectively fight the menace.

According to him, the fight against human trafficking is a collaborative one because anybody can be trafficked, both young and adult, in the name of making money.

“It is time to say no to sexual exploitation, use of children to make money and organ harvesting because those children are our future hope,” he said.

He urged people to take the campaign to their various communities for effective sensitisation.

Mynd44 Nlfpmod

The Federal Government has threatened to sue hospitals that decline to treat patients rushed in for emergency treatment.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, issued the warning on Sunday at the “Unlock Grants Award” event in Abuja.

Recall that earlier this year, the Federal Ministry of Health was given a mandate by the House of Representatives to take firm action against hospitals and healthcare facilities that refuse to treat accident or gunshot victims without first obtaining a police report.

Kennedy-Ohanenye, however, said that Federal Government hospitals would henceforth be required to place signs outside their doors that reads: ‘No more rejection of emergency patients’.

She said: “Our hospitals will also put a sign of ‘No more rejection of emergency patients.’ These are some of the major issues we have in this country. I am in touch with Maitama Hospital. But now, I have a mobile court for any hospital that does that.

“I use this opportunity to call on all Nigerians to be vigilant.

“Let me also say that I am proud of Nigerians. I love the way they are using social media to tackle issues. But focus and continue to tackle the main issues as you are doing. Keep it up. But this is the time for action.

“Let all of us buckle up to prevent emergency patients from being rejected. I am still going to keep calling on Nigerians. This fight is not for one person alone. It is for all of us.”

The Organised Labour has said it will not accept any N62,000 or N100,000 “starvation wage” as the minimum wage for Nigerian workers.

It insisted on N250,000, being its latest demand at the last meeting of the Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage on Friday, as the living wage for an average Nigerian worker.

This was made known on Monday by Chris Onyeka, Assistant General Secretary of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, while fielding questions on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief show.

Onyeka said the one-week grace period given to the Federal Government last Tuesday, June 4, 2024, would expire by the midnight of Tuesday, June 11, 2024.

According to him, should the Federal Government and National Assembly fail to act on the demands of workers by tomorrow (Tuesday), the organs of the NLC and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, would meet to decide on the resumption of the nationwide industrial action relaxed last week.

“Our position is very clear. We have never considered accepting N62,000 or any other wage that we know is below what we know is able to take Nigerian workers home. We will not negotiate a starvation wage.

“We have never contemplated N100,000 let alone N62,000. We are still at N250,000, that is where we are, and that is what we considered enough concession to the government and the other social partners in this particular situation. We are not just driven by frivolities but the realities of the market place; realities of things we buy every day, bag of rice, yam, garri, and all of that.

“The Federal Government and the National Assembly have the call now. It is not our call. Our demand is there for them (the government) to look at and send an Executive Bill to the National Assembly, and for the National Assembly to look at what we have demanded, the various fact of the law, and then come up with a National Minimum Act that meets our demands.”

He continued: “If that does not meet our demand, we have given the Federal Government a one-week notice to look at the issues and that one week expires tomorrow (Tuesday). If after tomorrow, we have not seen any tangible response from the government, the organs of the Organised Labour will meet to decide on what next.

“It was clear what we said. We said we are relaxing a nationwide indefinite strike. It’s like putting a pause on it.

“So, if you put a pause on something and the organs that govern us as trade unions decide that we should remove that pause, it means that we go back to what was in existence before.”

Nigeria is like that foolish man whose how is on fire and he's busy chasing rats.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State was at the Military Hospital, Benin City, on Sunday, to check on soldiers who sustained injuries during an attack by assailants in Okomu community.

DAILY POST reports that Obaseki, who expressed his displeasure over the incident, vowed that the State Government would fish out individuals and groups behind the attack.

The governor, who was represented by the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, promised to foot the medical bills incurred at the hospital.

Obaseki, who said the state is confronted with the issues of cultism and Okaigheles, noted that the information available to the government showed that Okaigheles are largely responsible for the threat to the security of Edo State.

According to him, three soldiers were badly wounded.

“We have one here now while others are worse. Their gunboats were destroyed. We don’t want a situation where we will be losing soldiers to reckless, dangerous cult groups.

“All Edo people, irrespective of party affiliation, must support the government in this fight against cultism and killings in the state as the state has lost over 150 people as a result of the acts.

“We thank the Nigerian Army, a responsible organisation that doesn’t take the laws into their own hands. If not it would have been a different story.

“We are here to visit the soldiers and appeal to them that the Edo State Government will take care of the bills incurred.

“It is not right for the military personnel to be attacked in any community here in Edo State. A few weeks ago, we were aware of what happened in a community in Delta State where over twenty (20) soldiers were killed by youths.

“We will start an operation this week to flush these people out, as we have a lot of security information and data that will help us flush them out.

“Just as the State Government banned Okaigheles and their activities, some people are condemning the ban. Members of the public should ignore it and this has encouraged those that went to Okomu forest to attack soldiers protecting our assets

“We advise those that belong to any cult group to return the arms they have and renounce their membership of any cult groups they belong to,” he said.

The governor appealed to leaders of Edo South Senatorial District to discourage the youths who are armed to desist from acts of violence as they are not only attacking soldiers but also civilians on the streets.

He said the state government would not tolerate such acts, so as to prevent what happened in Odi, Bayelsa State, and the recent Okuama incident in Delta State.

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday said the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has provided “exceptional leadership at a trying time for the country.”

Tinubu reiterated that Wike is a team leader who delivers on his promises.

He spoke during the inauguration of a road in Guzape District of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

A statement by Tinubu’s spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, quoted the president as saying: “It has been a very challenging time for us in the country. We are still retooling and rejigging our financial system to bring prosperity and relief to the people of this country.

“You have demonstrated the capacity to build a team, lead a team, and deliver on promises. I commend you, well done.”

Also speaking, Wike said the contract was initially awarded in 2003 at the cost of N14 billion and was divided into lots 1 and 2 to Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company Nigeria Limited and Gilmor Engineering Limited.

Wike commended Tinubu for not abandoning the project because government is a continuum.

“Dantata had left the site for long. We had to bring them back after the president approved a memorandum to that effect,” he said.

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Apple Incorporated has announced a new set of prices for in-app purchases and subscriptions for its Nigerian customer base to reflect the raging inflation assailing the West African nation’s economy.

Apple Incorporated has announced a new set of prices for in-app purchases and subscriptions for its Nigerian customer base commensurate with the raging inflation assailing the West African nation’s economy.

Apple Inc. has revised pricing for in-app purchases and subscriptions for Nigerian customers to reflect the severe inflation plaguing the nation’s economy.

The company announced the new prices in an email to developers Thursday night, stating that they will be effective June 21.

According to Apple, Nigeria’s changing tax and monetary policies informed the new pricing decisions, which would significantly affect in-app purchases and other subscriptions.

It is unclear if this development will also impact the prices of devices like iPhones, iPads, and AirPods.

The company added that the “prices on other storefronts will be updated to maintain equalisation with your chosen base price.”

The Ivory Coast, Egypt, Nepal, Suriname, and Zambia are other countries whose residents are also expected to see price changes in the latest review.

The company has faced criticism over its costly partnership with app developers, which critics said had become increasingly draconian as it leaves many users unable to afford premium applications across its platforms.

Nigeria recently raised taxes on citizens and businesses, which followed the removal of subsidies on petroleum products that economists blame for raging inflation.

Prices of smartphones and other smart devices have doubled in the last year amid forex volatility, naira devaluation, and the country’s overreliance on imported products.

President Bola Tinubu had floated the naira last year in the hopes of upping its value, still the currency has continued to plunge forcing multinationals companies like Microsoft, which couldn’t cope with high cost of operations, to exit the nation.

God bless Anambra state

God bless Ndi Igbo

God bless lover's of freedom

Anambra Amaka

Igbo Amaka

A former presidential spokesman, Doyin Okupe, on Friday lashed out at the organised labour for shutting down the national grid during the one-day nationwide strike.

Okupe said it was evil and sinful for labour to have switched off the national grid during the nationwide strike.

On Monday, labour declared an indefinite strike to push for a new national minimum wage.

The strike led to Nigeria being thrown into darkness as labour supervised the switching off of the national grid.

However, the former spokesman of the Obi-Datti presidential campaign council described the action of labour as unacceptable.

Appearing on Channels Television Politics Today, Okupe said: “In Nigeria today, people are losing the sense of what is right or wrong. You can’t go and switch off the national grid of a nation. It is unacceptable.

“But I also do not blame Labour; the situation should never have arisen. We have a government in place; where is the security? Where is the intelligence? People are taking politics too far. You have a point to make but you should not grind the government to a halt. Labour went off course by shutting off the national grid; that is evil; it is sinful and unacceptable.”

Governors are not considering a minimum wage that is higher than N70,000, it was learnt last night.
At a meeting yesterday in Abuja, the state helmsmen reviewed the economic situation and concluded that anything above N70,000 will not be affordable and sustainable.

They ruled out the N100,000 option being dangled by some people.

Sources at the meeting said the governors, who met under the auspices of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), considered options between N60,000 offered to Labour by the Federal Government before the strike, and N70,000, which is what the Edo State Government has started paying.

Having failed to reach a consensus on a uniform amount, a committee headed by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma was set up.

Uzodimma is the chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum (PGF) – governors elected on the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Yesterday’s position of the governors is in line with a previous statement by Chairman of NGF and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq that states will only agree to a minimum wage that is “affordable and sustainable”.

A source at the meeting said: “After deliberation on the minimum wage, we decided to consider options between N60,000 and N70,000 a month. We could not reach a concrete decision on the wage rate for states.

“Eventually, a committee, to be led by Governor Uzodimma, was mandated to look at all presentations and make recommendations.

“The NGF will soon reconvene to consider the Uzodimma Committee report.”

The source added: “No state can afford to pay a N100,000 minimum wage and we have ruled out this benchmark.

“Records available to us indicated that some states are still paying N18,000 because they are unable to afford N30,000 (which came into effect in 2019). Only a state has adopted a N70, 000 wage.”

No N105,000 proposal, says Presidency

The Presidency debunked claims that the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, submitted a N105,000 new minimum wage proposal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The President met yesterday with Edun after an audience with an International Finance Corporation (IFC) team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

It was gathered that Edun submitted the proposal for a new wage for the least-paid Nigerian worker to the President.

However, reports published by some online media platforms claimed that the minister proposed N105,000.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the N105,000 proposal as false.

“The Honorable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has not proposed N105,000 minimum wage.

“The contrary story being disseminated is false”, Onanuga wrote on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle.

New minimum wage: Edun takes cost implications to Tinubu

A fresh wage offer by the Federal Government may be tabled today before the tripartite committee negotiating a new national salary scale.

The possibility follows a meeting between the President and Finance Minister.

Edun was accompanied to the meeting by Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris and Budget and National Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu.

Although the Finance Minister merely told reporters after the meeting that there was ‘’no cause for alarm,’’ a source said he presented and discussed the template and the cost implications of the new wage proposal to the President.

The Finance minister was believed to have outlined the costs of new wage across all levels of government workers and the anticipated fiscal impacts of each option on the national budget.

“A lot of things are contained in the report or template he presented to the President, especially what a new wage will cost the government at every grade level in relation to our income and budget.

‘’A team will scrutinise the report after which the President will direct that it be presented before the tripartite committee on the new minimum wage.

“And I am sure the presentation before the committee will be done tomorrow (today).

“You will recall that the President was clear when he gave the instruction on Tuesday,’’ the source added.

At their meeting eight days ago, the Federal Government and the Organised Private Sector increased their initial offers to N60,000. Labour rejected it but further cut its initial demand of N615,000 to N494,000.

The intervention by the Presidency led to the signing of an agreement between the government and labour, part of which is that the government will be committed to paying more than N60,000 as minimum wage.

That ended terminated the strike after only one day.

Like Wednesday, not much was achieved by the tripartite committee yesterday.

A member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told The Nation that they were awaiting the template which would have formed the crux of their deliberations.

He, however, said the panel broke into sub-committees to deliberate on how to conclude talks on the new wage.

Yesterday’s meeting was attended by Edun, Bagudu, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, and Uzodinma.

Speaking to reporters, Uzodimma expressed optimism that an agreement on minimum wage could be reached to today.

He said: “I am sure we will reach some concrete agreement when we reconvene tomorrow. That will form what will be presented to the plenary (National Assembly).

“It is not about the amount. We are taking a holistic approach. Wages should be anchored around our capacity to generate revenue and the sovereignty of the country is important to all of us.

“It is not about the workers. It is about Nigeria- our nation. We have obligations as citizens to work with the government of the day to ensure that all parties are satisfied.”

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has reacted to video footage where he was captured asking some permanent secretaries to bow before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Wike spoke on Thursday, during the commissioning of the seventh FCT project as part of activities marking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s one year in office.

The minister used the opportunity to debunk the report that he had made permanent secretaries in the FCTA bow before the President at an event.

He said: “Two days ago, when the President came, we tried to thank him for what he did in making sure that those who had already lost hope in their career progression got to the peak of their career.

“Before now, FCTA did not have permanent secretaries. But with Mr. President’s way of Renewed Hope, he said they must get to the peak of their career by getting to the position of permanent secretary and Head of the Civil Service, if possible. Mr President granted that and then I called out the permanent secretaries who are the beneficiaries to come out and take a bow and thank Mr President.

“It is an honour to be called out to take a bow but some human beings can never see anything good. Instead, they are criticising, saying, ‘How will you call people who are Permanent Secretaries and ask them to take a bow?''

To press home his point, the minister, thereafter, called out the six area council chairmen, whom he described as change agents of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, to also take a bow before the President.

Vice President Kashim Shettima said on Thursday that President Bola Tinubu had been a great supporter of northerners in their quest for political attainment, describing him as “a man who has shown commitment to the well-being of Nigerians.”

The Vice President made this disclosure in his speech at the 3rd Expanded National MSMES Clinics, Ekiti 2024, held on Thursday in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

According to Shettima: “The road that led us to Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu did not happen by chance. This is a man who has shown profound commitment to improving the quality of governance in this nation. He has shown the zeal, the passion, the knowledge and the capacity. We are among the pacesetters of leaders who went about canvassing support for Asiwaju.

“When many of his contemporaries were struggling to have a seat at the dinner table in Abuja, he was sacrificing his resources and goodwill energy towards the enthronement of democracy in this country.

“He has been a very veritable sanctuary for victims of political witchhunts. When Atiku Abubakar was harassed, intimidated, dehumanised and chased out of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), it was the Bourdilion he ran to for support and it was in Bourdilion that he got the needed support and he contested for the presidency of this country.

“Four years later, the same Asiwaju supported another Nigerian, to contest for the presidency of this nation, he is the current National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.”

Speaking on the issue of the MSME, the Vice President said: “This expanded clinic has brought together the regulators in the sector alongside business owners and investors from various business classes across the length and breadth of this nation. And we are honoured to be joined by government partners and agencies such as SMEDAN, NEXIM, ITF, NAFDAC and others.

“They are here to offer guidance and provide the necessary services for the smooth operation of their businesses. Our private sector partners, including, MAN, NACCIMA and many others, are equally mobilised to collaborate with you in transforming your entrepreneurial dream into reality. Our other MSME clinic is a fully equipped ICT hub in Eriinmope-Ekiti.”

Shettima further revealed: “The governor, during his visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on the MSME clinics, demanded the establishment of another modern ICT facility in the state capital, Ado Ekiti. I conveyed his request to President Tinubu, who has approved the creation of an additional ICT hub in Ado Ekiti. This project will be completed within 90 days.”

On the issue of the MSME programme, the Vice President said that the Federal Government has approved a sum of N150,000 non-refundable grants for each beneficiary.

Other projects commissioned by the Vice President include the Adire Hub located along the Ado-Iworoko-Ekiti Road and the 9.7-kilometre Omisanjana-Ajebandele Deeper Life Road.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, National Working Committee, NWC, has declared that its not engaged in any merger, fusion or amalgamation talks with any other political party.

This comes amid talks by PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar of forming a coalition with his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi and other political parties.

But, Yunusa Tanko, the spokesman of the defunct Obi-Datti presidential campaign council, had said Obi is not interested in any merger that is aimed at seeking political powers.

However, PDP expressed readiness to welcome back to its fold, members who left for other political parties.

The PDP NWC stated this after its 587th meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

A statement by PDP’s spokesman, Debo Ologunagba, reads: “While the PDP, as a truly people’s Party, is open and welcoming to all Nigerians including our former members who left for other parties, we state that our Party remains strong and formidable, capable of winning elections in a free, fair and transparent electoral process in our country.

“The NWC acknowledges the influx of millions of Nigerians into our Party in the on-going Party Membership Drive in all the Electoral Wards across the country; which further confirms that the PDP remains the Party of choice for majority of Nigerians.

“The public, teeming members of our great Party, Democracy Institutions and of course the International Community should therefore disregard any report suggesting any form of merger between the PDP and any other political Party as such is not in the contemplation of our great Party.”

Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan has said that many politicians will not approach the court if the judiciary has been fair and upright in tackling election disputes.

Jonathan made this statement on Tuesday in Asaba, Delta state at the inauguration of the state new High Court Complex.

“My thinking is that 50 per cent of those who go to court go to court because they felt they were cheated by the electoral management system; they were rigged out.

“When you feel naturally aggrieved, you have to go to court. So assuming the elections are properly conducted, they know they failed the election, but they feel they can use the judiciary to declare them winners.

“If the judiciary doesn’t declare who doesn’t win the election that they are winners, that many 50 per cent will not go to court.

“In South Africa, the electoral management body will never compromise, they all know. If you lose the election, you just wait for the next election. You don’t need to go to court.

“Because if you go to court, the judiciary too will not compromise. So you will not get anything,” he said.

The former President applauded the government of Delta State for its efforts in enhancing the working environment of judicial officers.

He also commended Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for his administration’s focus on infrastructural development, and his commitment to completing projects initiated by previous governments.

According to him, the project, which was started in 1991, is proof of the government’s dedication to continuity and development.

“There are some projects that are very fundamental to the growth and development of the state. We expect anybody who takes over the government to continue them, and you are doing exactly that,” Jonathan said.

Renowned Human Rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has suggested that the National Assembly could resolve the deadlock between the Federal Government and the Organized Labour over the new minimum wage saga by promptly passing a new National Minimum Wage Act, similar to how it swiftly enacted the National Anthem Act last week.

Falana spoke during a meeting between the leadership of the National Assembly, the delegation of the Federal Government, and the leadership of Organized Labour on Sunday, June 2, 2024.

He emphasised that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) calling for an indefinite nationwide strike was due to the Federal Government’s failure to implement a realistic and livable new minimum wage.

He pointed out that the expiration of the National Minimum Wage Act 2019 in April makes a long-overdue review necessary and imperative.

Falana specifically highlighted that Section 3(4) of the Act, which states that the national minimum wage expires after five years, should have been reviewed by the National Assembly in accordance with the Act’s provisions without needing external prompting.

According to him, “the current national minimum wage of N30,000, which was fixed in 2019 is no longer tenable. The Federal Government’s proposed wage award of N48,000 is inadequate and not in tandem with reality.”

However, the popular Lawyer said that some State governments, specifically Edo and Lagos, had already announced higher minimum wage of N70,000 per month.

Therefore, Falana urged the National Assembly to act promptly, similar to its approach with the National Anthem Act, in passing a new National Minimum Wage Act that aligns with the current economic conditions and fulfills the needs of Nigerian workers.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) is set to begin its industrial action today Monday, 3rd June, 2024. But there is no scintilla of doubt that the strike will make life unbearable for Muslims preparing for Id al-kabiir (Salah) which is just a few days away.

As expected, the workers unions of other service providing sectors like petroleum and electricity have offered to join (https://www.thecable.ng/oil-electricity-workers-to-join-planned-labour-strike/). This means the lives of Nigerians are likely to be thrown into a state of higgledy-piggledy in the next few days.

But what does NLC think will happen to Muslims whose festival of Id al-kabiir is already knocking on the door? Transport fare to and fro their various destinations will skyrocket. Movements will be so adversely affected that the whole Salah period will become a horrendous experience. Is that what NLC wants?

The notice of strike was too short. It was given from the negotiation table and it was 48 hours or less. The approach of the current crop of NLC leaders is aggressive, arrogant, fascist and partisan. The body language is unmistakable. It is directed at bringing government down. This NLC has no respect for the rule of law, not even an iota of decorum for democratic practices.

If we cannot speak for government, what about Nigerian Muslims whose lives your strike could turn into sheer nightmare? Is this a deliberate attempt to make life uncomfortable for Muslims? Will NLC declare strike one week to Christmas? Or is this about bringing down our Muslim-Muslim ticket? Is this part of the ‘religious war’ of ‘Yes Daddy’?

Are Muslim workers not part of your union? If we are, shouldn’t NLC consider our interest, particularly our fast-approaching festival before embarking on a strike? What happened to strategic planning? What happened to timing and logistics? What happened to psychological preparation of people’s minds?

By the way, every civilized group checks the calendar when planning an event and every calendar shows festivals of the year, is there no calendar on the walls of NLC office or was it deliberately ignored because NLC leadership is more interested in inflicting pains on Nigerian Muslims?

Who did NLC leadership consult before declaring strike and what did they advice? Are there no Muslims among members of NLC executive? Are there no Muslims among NLC’s advisers or are they all ‘Yes Daddy’? If there are, are they conscious Muslims or just Muslims by name? Are they not aware that Salah is next week?

This strike is ill-timed. It is a recipe for a topsy-turvy Salah. We advise NLC to postpone it till after the Salah. If NLC rejects our advice and goes ahead with its satanic strike, we will ask all Muslim workers who know that they will meet Allah yaom al-Qiyaamah (The Last Day) not to cooperate with NLC. They should reject the strike because it is an assault on the religion of Islam.

We call on all Muslim leaders and Islamic organisations in Nigeria to speak up now before it is too late. We must reject the tyranny of Muslim-haters thinly veiled in unionism. We say ‘No To Strike in Salah.’”

#NLC

#NoToStrikeInSalah

Professor Ishaq Akintola,

Founder/Executive Director,

Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC).

Some unions have shut their workplaces to comply with the directive of the two labour unions to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike.

On Friday, the organised labour announced that they will be commencing a nationwide indefinite strike due to the refusal of the Federal Government to increase the proposed minimum wage from N60,000.

According to the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, the strike will begin at midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024.

In a joint statement delivered by Ajaero and his Trade Union Congress counterpart, Festus Osifo, they expressed their serious concerns and disappointment over the Federal Government’s failure to finalise and pass a new National Minimum Wage Act into law.

They also demanded that the government reverse the increase in electricity tariff to N65/kWh.

Recall that both unions had given an ultimatum of May 31, 2024, for negotiations on the new minimum wage.

However, talks between organised labour and the Federal Government broke down on Tuesday after both parties presented their offers.

The government increased its initial offer of N57,000 by adding N3,000 to make it N60,000.

This proposal was rejected by labour during the meeting.

During negotiations at this meeting, labour also lowered their demand from last week’s proposal of N497,000 by removing N3,00 which reduced their new proposal to N494,000.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities in a statement addressed to the branch chairpersons and zonal coordinators of ASUU on Monday, the association’s President, Emmanuel Osodeke, directed lecturers in universities across the country to join the strike as an affiliate of the congress.

The statement read, “The NLC has declared an indefinite strike action beginning from Monday, 3rd June 2024, as a result of the failure of Government to conclude the renegotiation of minimum wage for Nigerian workers and reversal of hike in electricity tariff.

On Sunday, Aviation unions directed its members to withdraw services across airports in Nigeria.

The unions include the National Union of Air Transport Employees, the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria, the Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals, and the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers.

The union stated, “In compliance with the directive from the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria—we hereby inform the general public, aviation service providers, airline operators, aviation businesses, and all aviation workers nationwide that starting from 0000hrs of June 3, 2024, all services at all Nigerian airports shall be fully withdrawn till further notice.”

The PUNCH learnt that the unions decided after an emergency meeting held on Sunday.

Below are the unions that have joined the strike:

1. The Academic Staff Union of Universities.

2. Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria.

3. The National Union of Electricity Employees.

4. National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees.

5. Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria.

More to come…

Former Senate Minority Leader and senator representing Abia South Senatorial district, Enyinnaya Abaribe has dismissed as blatant falsehood reports of his purported humiliation by soldiers at an Army checkpoint in Obingwa.

In a statement on Sunday by his media aide, Uchenna Awom, the senator urged members of the public to discountenance the misleading reports.

Instead, he hailed the officers and men of the Nigerian Army for being professional in their engagement with the civil populace.

DAILY POST recalls that tension has continued to build across the state for a possible reprisal military operation after hoodlums killed five soldiers in Aba on Thursday.

He said: “It is laughable and false, the report that soldiers humbled and delayed him at a checkpoint while returning from a burial in Obingwa last Thursday.”

The former Deputy Governor rather explained that soldiers at the said checkpoint were very courteous and professional in carrying out their duties.

He warned the media against sensational reports in a desperation to draw traffic.

“I was never accosted, delayed or approached in a disrespectful manner by the soldiers. My observation at the point was that of a professional force carrying out their duty in a most humane and respectful manner, despite the ugly events of the day.

“So, one wonders the motive of the author of the jaundiced and highly speculative report even to the conjecture from the said writer to have overheard me calling the State governor to intervene and also heard the reported negative reaction from the Governor. It nothing but a tissue of lies.

“I salute the soldiers and reiterate my earlier statement condemning what happened last Thursday. That report is false and authored to achieve a devious political goal, ”Abaribe said.

Abba Kyari, the suspended deputy commissioner of police, was warmly welcomed by members of his family and friends after his release from the Kuje Custodial Centre on Friday.

A video and pictures posted on X on Saturday showed Kyari sitting with his family members, who beamed excitedly.

In one image, balloon decorations are seen in a house with the message, “Welcome Back”.

Kyari’s release comes 27 months after his arrest by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

He was arrested on February 14, 2022, after the NDLEA declared him wanted over alleged links with an international drug cartel.

On March 7, 2022, Kyari was arraigned alongside Sunday Ubia, Bawa James, Simon Agirigba, and John Nuhu, members of the police intelligence response team (IRT).

Others are Chibunna Patrick Umeibe and Emeka Alphonsus Ezenwanne, two suspected drug traffickers who were arrested at Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.

Upon arraignment, Kyari and four other defendants pleaded not guilty.

However, Umeibe and Ezenwanne, the sixth and seventh defendants, pleaded guilty and were convicted accordingly.

On May 22, 2024, Emeka Nwite, the presiding judge, granted Kyari a two-week bail to allow him to partake in the burial rites of his mother, Yachilla Kyari, who died on May 5.

The judge ruled that Kyari should deposit his international passport with the court and report to any NDLEA formation near him within the bail period.

The suspended DCP had also filed another application seeking bail.

The judge fixed May 31 for the determination of Kyari’s main application for bail in the drug trafficking charge.

The court granted Kyari bail on Friday. He was released shortly after perfecting his bail conditions.

The Federal Government has declared the organised labour’s demand for a national minimum wage of N494,000 as economically unsustainable, warning it could destabilise the economy and negatively impact over 200 million Nigerians.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this during a news conference in Abuja.

In a statement signed by his media aide Rabiu Ibrahim on Saturday, Idris emphasised that the proposed minimum wage would result in an annual expenditure of N9.5 trillion, a burden he described as untenable for the nation’s finances.

According to Idris, the government’s current offer is an N60,000 minimum wage, representing a 100 per cent increase from the 2019 rate, which has been accepted by the organised private sector involved in the wage negotiations.

“The Federal Government’s new minimum wage proposal amounts to a 100 per cent increase on the existing minimum wage in 2019. Labour, however, wanted N494,000, which would increase by 1,547 per cent on the existing wage.

“The sum of N494,000 national minimum wage which Labour is seeking would cumulatively amount to the sum N9.5 trillion bill to the Federal Government of Nigeria,” Idris said.

He stressed the potential economic fallout, including massive job losses, particularly in the private sector, if the labour demand was met.

“Nigerians need to understand that whereas the FG is desirous of ample remuneration for Nigerian workers, what is most critical is that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not encourage any action that could lead to massive job loss, especially in the private sector, who may not be able to pay the wage demanded by the organised labour,” Idris stated.

The Minister pointed out that while labour was advocating for higher wages for approximately 1.2 million workers, the government’s priority was the welfare of the entire population, guided by principles of affordability and sustainability.

Idris called on organised labour to return to the negotiating table to agree on more reasonable and realistic wages.

He reiterated the Tinubu administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, noting that the current wage award of N35,000 for federal workers will continue until a new national minimum wage is established.

On Friday, the Nigeria Labour Congress declared a nationwide indefinite strike starting at midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024, due to the federal government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage above N60,000.

The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, announced the strike following failed negotiations between the government and organized labour.

Despite the government’s final offer of N60,000, which included a recent increase from an initial N57,000, the labour unions found the proposal insufficient.

At the meeting, labour revised its demand, reducing it by N3,000 from the initial N497,000 proposed last week, setting the new proposal at N494,000.

Despite this concession, the negotiations remained deadlocked as the government maintained its offer of N60,000, leading to the declaration of a nationwide indefinite strike.

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said what the country needs is good governance, not a change in the system of governance as being clamoured in some quarters.

The Vice President spoke at the 30th anniversary of Yusuf Ali & Co (Ghalib chambers) in Ilọrin, Kwara State capital, on Saturday.

According to him, “Democracy can only survive by adherence to rule of law and quality of governance, not by parliamentary system as being canvassed by some people.

“Many nations that collapsed did so because of lack of access to truth and justice; their access to justice was frustrated and denied.”

Shettima while speaking on the aftermath of the litigation that trailed the 2023 electoral process added that President Bola Tinubu never influenced the electoral process since he assumed office through the instrument of power.

He said “President Bola Tinubu never influenced the electoral process and we (presidency) never used instruments of office to hunt or hound perceived opponents standing trial”.

On his part, former Minister of Works, Raji Fashola (SAN), said Nigeria once practised a parliamentary system but failed which led the country into unwarranted disaster.

He said “Let’s think deeply about why the parliamentary system failed us and have we overcome those reasons?”

Rather than calling for change of system of government, the former minister suggested liberal democracy that would ensure better and improved livelihood of Nigerians.

He said: “Those calling for the system change are instigated by economic reasons. If only they are confident the government would provide for their economic need, they won’t chant this clamour for change.

“If there is sincerity of purpose, there will be better life for all even under the present system of government.

“Those calling for change of government are the canvassers of restructuring which can be done with constitutional review/amendment of the areas not suitable for us,” he said.

He stated that poor distribution of the commonwealth and even development often played a common reason for the call for change of system of government.

Fashola, however, blamed the call for a change of system on poor education especially of political history, “if people are not accustomed to how a system works, they will be frustrated and call for its change.

“Why must we go back to the system that once catapulted our country into disaster?” he queried.

He advised that the nation retains the present federal arrangement with calls that excessive cost of governance be reduced, “not outright call for a parliamentary system..

He thanked the celebrant, Yusuf Ali, adding that the annual gathering has always rubbed off positively on the society.

In his welcome address, the founder of Ghalib Chambers, Prof Yusuf Ali, appreciated God for what he described as infinite favour and blessings for turning the fortune of the firm beyond expectations.

The House of Representatives has disowned a trending draft ‘bill’ for discussion, seeking a return to the regional system of government.

Titled, “A Bill for an Act to substitute the annexure to Decree 24 of 1999 with a new governance model for the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the draft seeks among others, a new extant laws to be cited as “The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024.”

The document, which has been trending on social media, is said to have been drafted by one Dr Akin Fapohunda, who is neither a lawmaker in the Senate or the House of Representatives; an indication that the said draft legislation is a private bill.

Dismissing the draft bill in a telephone conversation with our correspondent, House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, said, “The Committees on Rules and Business and Constitution Review have confirmed that there is no such bill before them.”

Similarly, the Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business, Francis Waive, told PUNCH Online that the said bill is not before the committee.

He said, “There are two routes to making presentations for constitutional amendments. One is by members proposing an amendment bill during the plenary. The second is by memoranda from individuals and groups to the Constitution Review Committee

“Please, note that memoranda submitted should eventually come by way of bills sponsored by a member of the committee.
On this specific memo (draft bill) under reference, I doubt if it has come before the Rules and Business Committee for listing. I speak as chairman of the committee.”

Meanwhile, the man behind the bill spoke with our correspondent exclusively on the matter on Friday.

Fapohunda told our correspondent that he retired from the public service as a director in the Presidency.

“I have a PhD. in Agricultural Science, but I am into Information and Communication Technology. I have been involved in constitution drafting for years,” he said.

Fapohunda gave a reason for coming up with the draft bill, saying, “The President, this week returned us to the old national anthem. At independence, Nigeria embraced a regional system of government. So, I felt we could also revisit the past and return to regionalism.

‘I have done a preliminary draft for Nigerians to ponder over. Next week, I will be seeing my representative in the House of Representatives. We hope that senators and House members can embrace this modest proposal for a change.

“If this is acceptable, we can then sit down and do a proper drafting of the bill.”

Details of the soldiers gruesomely murdered by members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have emerged.

Our correspondents had earlier reported how vehicles and tricycles (popularly known as Keke Napep) were also set ablaze by the rampaging IPOB terrorists while the attack lasted on Thursday.

The military high command had earlier on Friday confirmed that no fewer than 5 of its troops deployed at Obikabia Junction Checkpoint in Obingwa Local Government Area adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State were killed.

In a signal sighted by Daily Trust on Friday, those killed included two Sergeants, two Corporal and one Lance Corporal while 6 civilians, according to the military were killed in the cross fire.

The soldiers were identified as:

• Sergeant Charles Ugochukwu (94NA/38/1467)

• Sergeant Bala Abraham (03NA/53/1028)

• Corporal Gideon Egwe(10NA/65/7085)

• Corporal Ikpeama Ikechukwu (13NA/70/5483)

• Corporal Augustine Emmanuel (13NA/70/6663)

Then signal read, “On 30 May 24, at about 0830 hrs, troops of 144 Battalion deployed at Obikabia Junction Federal School Road, Ogbor Hill in Obingwa LGA were attacked by unknown gunmen suspected to be IPOB/ESN members.

“Gunmen who were enforcing Sit-At-Home order numbering about 30, stormed troops location in 3 black Toyota Land Cruiser Jeeps and opened fire during which 5 x Soldiers were killed.”

It further disclosed that the assailants also carted away 5 AK47 rifles, burnt down 2 military patrol hilux vehicles and injured 2 civilians.

The signal noted that the current situation in Aba is generally tensed while monitoring continues as further details will be forwarded as situation unfolds.

vanbonattel:
All the roofs here are healthy

The Nigerian government has strongly condemned the killing of at least 45 defenceless civilians at camps in Rafah, and other parts of Gaza amid the raging war between Israel and Hamas.

A statement signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar on Thursday said, “The Government of Nigeria noted that the recent deadly attacks on the Rafah Displacement Camps in Southern Gaza on Sunday, the 26th, which killed about 45 people, mostly women and children, represent an unfortunate addition to the list of strikes on soft civilian targets with devastating effects that have now characterised the crisis.”

The Nigerian authority urged all stakeholders, including the warring parties (Israel and Palestine), the United Nations, especially its Security Council, the European Union, human rights groups, civil society organisations, world leaders and the international community to intensify efforts towards a speedy resolution of the conflict and the immediate ceasefire to avert more disaster.

Amb. Tuggar said the Rafah attacks, just like the bombing of the Al Shifa Hospital in early April, the serial bombing of schools, particularly in Khan Younis; the March 2024 bombing of the Firas Market and the Nuseirat Refugee Camp Market; the drone attacks on the World Central Kitchen aid staff in April all indicate most regrettable affront on humanity, which must be denounced in its entirety.

“It deplores the already mature humanitarian catastrophe that has developed out of this regrettable situation. Nigeria is greatly dismayed at the flagrant disregard of ceasefire agreements, the violation of humanitarian corridors, and the deliberate sabotaging of aid and relief efforts.

“Nigeria, therefore, strongly maintains the stance that the fundamental human rights, including and especially that to life of the vulnerable civilian population of Gaza must be preserved at all costs.

“We call on all stakeholders—including the warring parties (Israel and Palestine), the United Nations, especially its Security Council, the European Union, human rights groups, civil society organisations, world leaders and the international community—to intensify efforts towards a speedy resolution of the conflict, and the immediate cessation of the attendant carnage on the defenceless people, not just of Gaza, but on both sides of the divide.

“No lesser alternative will be acceptable. While we consider intervention on behalf of the people of Gaza as a far-reaching contribution to the preservation of humanity and its values, we also reaffirm our position regarding the two-state solution as vital to the amelioration of the prevailing situation,” the Nigerian Government emphasised in the statement.

Israel launched war against Hamas after the Palestinian militants attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023 and killed 1200 Israeli citizens and took nearly 200 others hostage.

Seven months after the Israeli offensive on Hamas in Gaza, over 36,000 Palestinians have been reportedly killed and nearly 80,000 injured.

With a charge to reduce maritime crimes to the nearest minimum, President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated three Nigerian Navy (NN) ships and two helicopters at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The President also charged the navy to build strategic partnerships that would boost the Africa Blue Economy project.

He spoke through Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented him at series of events organised in Lagos by the Navy to mark its 68th anniversary.

According to Tinubu, the Navy had since inception, continued to confront contending issues by adopting the most optimal policies and strategies to address the rapidly changing security challenges in the nation.

Delivering a lecture at an International Maritime Conference with the theme: “Promoting the Blue Economy in Africa through International Cooperation on Maritime Security,” Tinubu said the topic encapsulated the major objective of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal(SDG) 14, the Vision of Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050, and a key target of Africa’s Agenda 2063.

He said the conference also offered the best platform for relevant stakeholders to articulate the mechanism for collaborative action against maritime crimes in Africa.

Stressing that the conference was held at a critical period when Nigeria was faced with multifaceted security challenges, he noted that improvement in security conditions was required to significantly raise the contribution of the marine and blue economy sector to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

He said: “Significantly, the blue economy is estimated to be worth more than US $1.5 trillion per year globally and projected to increase to US $15.5 trillion by 2050.

“The Africa Blue Economy Strategy estimates that the blue economy currently generates nearly US $300 billion for the continent, creating 49 million jobs in the process.

“The Africa Blue Economy is projected to hit US $405 billion by 2030. It is very appropriate to state categorically that any collaborative initiative by the Nigerian Navy to build partnerships across African navies and Coast Guards is in the right direction.”

The Nigerian Navy, according to him, had over the years evolved and reinvented itself to effectively deal with the threats in the maritime domains and had also partnered with other maritime agencies to mitigate the threats affecting the country’s national development.

He said: “These threats have become transnational, beyond the scope and capability of one nation to deal with. The situation calls for greater international collaboration.

“With the array of distinguished officers present at this event from outside the shores of our country, it is very obvious that the Nigerian Navy has assembled a remarkable group of outstanding persons with extensive and much desired collaborative commitment towards finding solutions to the myriad of security challenges in Africa’s maritime environment.”

The Minister of State, Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, in his remarks, noted the Navy has been a symbol of pride to the country, diligently carrying out its duties of safeguarding her economic interests with unparalleled professionalism.

He expressed optimism that the deliberations during the conference would produce innovative ways to improve professionalism and efficiency, translating to a secure maritime environment for the Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria, and all seafarers, to conduct legitimate businesses for economic prosperity and national development.

“I believe that the outcomes of this conference will contribute to actualising the vision of the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for a prosperous Nigeria.’

Chief of the Naval Staff, CNS, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, described maritime threats as transnational in nature and capable of hampering the potential of the blue economy of nations.

He said ameliorating these threats was beyond the scope and capability of one nation but required international collaborative efforts.

Abubakar also said he was deeply humbled by the recognition of his contributions and remained steadfast in his belief that “Africa’s best days are ahead of us.”

“Together, let us forge a legacy of democratic excellence that will inspire generations to come. to come,” Abubakar said.

Reflecting on the journey towards 25 years unbroken democracy in Nigeria, Abubakar said when he assumed office as the Head of State of Nigeria in June 1998, the nation was at a critical juncture in its chequered history.

Abubakar also said the preceding years had been marked by political turbulence and a yearning for democratic restoration.

He added that the path ahead required not only a vision, but also decisive and principled leadership to navigate the complexities of our national landscape.

“Throughout history, the smooth transfer of power is often celebrated as a significant achievement, yet it marks only the start of a more extensive journey. Personally, I found it crucial to establish a foundation for enduring democratic governance. This entailed nurturing an atmosphere of trust, inclusivity, and adherence to the rule of law. Our administration promptly undertook measures such as releasing political prisoners, lifting restrictions on political activities, and developing an electoral system designed to guarantee free, fair, and transparent elections.

“Our efforts culminated in the successful conduct of the 1999 general elections, which saw the peaceful transfer of power to a democratically elected government. This moment was not merely a milestone for Nigeria, but a beacon of hope for the entire African continent. It demonstrated that with the right leadership, even the most challenging political landscapes could be transformed,” Abubakar also said.

The former Head of State further said he was deeply honoured to be recognized in this manner, but must emphasize that the work of sustaining peace and promoting democracy is a collective effort that requires the commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders.

“Throughout my tenure as the Military Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and in the years that have followed, I have strived to uphold the principles of peace, stability, and democratic governance.

“However, the journey towards democratic consolidation does not end with elections. It requires continuous nurturing and unwavering commitment to the principles of good governance, rule of law, and respect for human rights. As leaders, we must remain vigilant against the encroachment of autocracy and corruption, which threaten the very foundations of our democracies.

“Astute leadership is characterised by the ability to inspire trust, foster unity, and drive development through accountable governance. It demands that we listen to the voices of our citizens, embrace transparency, and uphold justice. In this regard, I have always believed that leadership is not about wielding power, but about serving the people with integrity and dedication. Leaders must fulfil promises they made. Unfulfilled promises bring mistrust and contempt.

“In line with these ideals, I established the Abdulsalami Abubakar Institute for Peace and Sustainable Development Studies in 2002, shortly after transitioning to a democratic government. The Institute addresses the need for innovative, Afro-centric approaches to conflict transformation and development. Its mission is to provide a platform for local, national, and global actors towards promoting peace, security, and development in Africa. The Institute is dedicated to advanced research, dialogue, education, and training in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, environmental sustainability, good governance, and sustainable development.

“Reflecting on the broader African context, we have witnessed remarkable strides in democratic 80vernance across the continent. Countries that once grappled with authoritarian regimes are now flourishing democracies, contributing to regional stability and prosperity, This progress is a testament to the resilience and determination of our people, as well as the transformative impact of visionary leadership.

“Yet, challenges remain. We continue to confront issues such as poverty, inequality, and insecurity, which can undermine our democratic gains. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. It is imperative that we strengthen our institutions, invest in education and healthcare and create opportunities for our youths,” Abubakar further said.

Abubakar added that the legacy of astute leadership and the sustenance of democracy in Africa is a collective endeavour.

“It is a journey that requires the dedication of not only our leader, but also every citizen. As we look to the future, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a continent where democracy thrives, and every individual can achieve their full potential.

“Furthermore, we must recognize the critical role of education and economic empowerment in sustaining democracy. A well-informed and economically stable populace is less susceptible to manipulation and more likely to engage constructively in the democratic process,” Abubakar stated.

In attendance were Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum; Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan; former President of the Nigerian Bar Association and Labour Party Governorship Candidate in Edo State, Olumide Akpata; former Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Senator Shehu Sani, amongst others.

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Fiery public speaker and Director, Kenyan School of Law, Professor Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumba, has said Africa cannot be great if Nigeria is not great.

According t him, the democracy of Nigeria will only begin to have meaning when Nigeria provides leadership.

Lumumba made the submission while delivering a lecture titled ‘Democracy in Africa: The Legacy of Abdulsalami Abubakar,’ organised by The Leadership Scorecard Integrated in Abuja in honour of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who returned Nigeria to democratic rule in 1999.

Lumumba, former Director of the Kenyan Anti-Corruption Commission, also said in true democracy, those who have the honour and privilege to serve their country must be servants of their people.

He stated that those who have the honour and privilege of serving their country must only have one agenda which is that they must be trustees of the things that they are entrusted with.

He added that those who have the honour and privilege of serving their people will go out there and will be prepared to say that they are prepared to lay down their lives for the benefit of the people.

Lumumba stated that in true democracy, the people want to be told that if there is agriculture, it will be supported and they be able to deliver that they can feed themselves.

He explained that the in true democracy, the people want to be told that they will have good health system so that when they are sick, they will go to hospitals that are hospitals in the true sense of the word and not hospitals built for them and their leaders running away to different parts of the world to seek better medical care.

Lumumba also said the people would not want to see their education system being an education system prepared for them and then the children of those whom they have elected going to different parts of the world.

He disclosed that the people would want to ensure that they have power, particularly the younger generation, they want to ensure that they are enjoying the dividends of artificial intelligence, that governance facilitates them and makes them inventors and innovators and create for them, an environment where they can thrive.

Lumumba asserted that if the aforementioned were not done, young men and women of the continent will be dying in the Mediterranean Sea; they will be humiliated at embassies of foreign countries and those who have the opportunity will run away to go and be engineers in different parts of the world.

He added that if true democracy is not practiced in Nigeria, the young men and women will not have faith in their country and would want to acquire the passports of different countries and will not be proud of democracy.

Lumumba told Abubakar that the democracy he cherished, the democracy he keeps talking about and walking around Africa for, is the democracy that promises Africans that Africa can be great again.

“And Africa must be great again. And Africa will never, ever be great, I submit to you Nigerians, if Nigeria is not great,” Lumumba said.

Explaining the rationale behind his submission, Lumumba said he arrived at the conclusion because with the population of over 300 million, if Nigeria can be made into a market, who can confront the continent of Africa.

“Who can ignore the continent of Africa? Tell me, where in the world do you not find a Nigerian? Somebody once told me that if you go to any place in the world and you do not find a Nigerian, run away from there because there is nothing to be done in that place.

“I am suggesting that the democracy of Nigeria will only begin to have meaning when Nigeria provides leadership.

“The time is now. As we celebrate democracy in Africa today, I am calling upon Nigeria and Nigerians to rise to the occasion, rise up so that your politics will be a point of reference so that when we watch men and women in the Senate in Nigeria and in the House of Representatives in Nigeria and we watch them debate, they will be debating about the things that relate to Africa; they will be debating about Africa Agenda 2063, they will be debating about Africa Continental Free Trade Area, they will not demand of anybody that wants to come to Nigeria who is an Africa must have a visa. No! Nigeria being as big as it is, should be the welcoming big brother because when you do that, we follow your leadership.

“We want to see a Nigeria that is economically dominant because if Nigeria is strong, then the test of Africa is strong,” Lumumba also said.

Lumumba further said when he hears occasionally Nigeria saying that it is the second largest and first largest economy in Africa sometimes, he wasn’t impressed because when Nigeria had a GDP of 500 billion, he is not impressed.

According to Lumumba, Nigeria “should have a GDP of $10 trillion then I will be impressed.”

He asserted that this is possible because Nigeria has the human resources and the intellectual wherewithal to ensure that it happens.

“When I hear Nigeria saying that they generate anything between 5,000 and 10,000 megawatts of electricity, I am not impressed. I am not impressed because little Denmark generates 35,000 megawatts of electricity and if Nigeria is to earn the dividends of democracy through industrialisation, Nigeria must now get and embark in the serious business of ensuring that Nigeria has energy to propel not only her and her neighbour, but the continent of Africa into the fourth industrial revolution. Those are the dividends of democracy,” Lumumba stated.

Lumumba added that he wants to hear that Nigeria is successful because Nigeria can be the defender of democracy in Africa and he wants to hear that when the leaders of Nigeria go to different parts of the world, they are treated with respect because Nigeria has demonstrated economically, politically and diplomatically that they are the dividends of democracy.

“I want to see that when one carries a Nigerian passport, but I hope that there will be an African passport, that our passport will be respected throughout the world. I look forward to those days,” Lumumba hoped.

In his remarks, Abubakar expressed profound gratitude to the management of Leadership Scorecard Integrated for organizing the important public lecture.

Abubakar said their dedication to promoting dialogue on leadership and democracy is commendable and essential for the nation’s continued progress.

He thanked Professor Lumumba, whom he said his work and passion for the advancement of democracy in Africa are truly inspiring, saying that Lumumba’s presence underscored the importance of Africans’ shared commitment to building a better future for the continent.

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to build a nation for generations unborn.
Tinubu made this call while speaking at the joint session of the National Assembly in the House of Representatives Chambers yesterday to mark Nigeria’s 25th anniversary of unbroken democratic rule.

Accompanied by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, among others, the president lauded the federal parliament for its collaboration with his government, evident in the expeditious passage of the Budget 2024, adding that the executive and legislature had no other choice than to collaborate.

“Our friends, old and new, to every Nigerian, I say congratulations for 25 years of unbroken democracy. Out of respect, I come to say thank you very much for bringing us to this stage. For building the institution, for building this country.

“You are first and foremost leaders that speak for our people. And you have been in the forefront of this institution. The hallowed chambers represent our consciousness for freedom and sense of belonging.

“You see, this is our diversity representing all parts and how we blend together to be brothers and sisters. Without this House, probably I may not find the path to the presidency. I started off from here. And that is why I am giving my respect this morning to you, to please continue to collaborate, work together, build our country.

“We have no other choice. It’s our nation. No one, no age, no other institution or personality will help us except we do it ourselves. No amount of aids that may be coming from foreign countries or any other nation, they take care of themselves first. So let us work together to build our nation, not only for us but for generations yet unborn.

“We must nourish this democracy, build this nation so that the future of our great grandchildren will be sure of prosperity, development and progress,” he said.
He further told the lawmakers that he would soon present the 2024 Appropriation Bill before them for consideration and passage.

In his welcome address, the Senate President and chairman of the National Assembly, Godswill Akpabio noted that the President only stopped over to greet the lawmakers, saying they look forward to celebrating Democracy Day on June 12, whichever way Tinubu chooses to celebrate with them.

“Of all the significant things you have done, if you take us back to our genealogy, that though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand, Nigerians all, and proud to serve our sovereign Motherland.

“Henceforth, we will not refer to ourselves as compatriots but brothers, so today we say Nigeria we hail thee. There is no better place to go back to our genealogy than the National Assembly where we have elected Representatives.

“We look forward to celebrating Democracy Day on June 12, whichever way you choose to celebrate with us we will take it,” he said.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, said the President’s visit to the joint session of the National Assembly was to flag off the recitation of the new national anthem after giving assent to the Bill.

He commended President Tinubu for the cordial relationship between the executive and legislative arms of the Federal Government, saying it was good for democracy.

“Mine is just to say a big thank you to our dear leader, who has been very supportive of the National Assembly over the last one year. A true democrat who has seen it all; a former governor, a former senator, a leader of a party and now president. I want you to know, Your Excellency, that we in the National Assembly are delighted with your report card, with your performance.”

He added that June 12 is supposed to be the real Democracy Day, not May 29.
President Tinubu and his entourage joined members of the National Assembly in singing the new National Anthem, “Nigeria, We Hail Thee,” before the session adjourned.

Wike Genuinely Serving Nigerians – Tinubu

Also yesterday, President Tinubu described the commencement of operations in the Abuja Metro Line as a dream come true for Nigerians, saying it was evidence that the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike was giving quality service to the nation.

Tinubu, who spoke at the flag-off of commercial operations of the Abuja Light Rail, Abuja Metro Station, said he was not surprised at the project given Wike’s track record.

“Mr. Project (Wike), thank you very much to you and your team. In keeping with the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda, you have demonstrated an unusual capacity to include people with your team.

“The huge investment you have saved and put into this project is there for the people to remember. Transportation gives hope and access to various individuals and organisations. But here we are, at the last review, the access roads to the various stations on the route are not done.

“But today, we proudly say you are truly serving the nation, which is part of the critical element of our national anthem adopted. It is all about service. You are proud to serve your motherland. Thank you,” he said.

He said the FCT Administration’s accomplishments demonstrated a serious commitment to value, a charge that all Nigerians should embrace.

Tinubu further said the Abuja Light Rail Metro stands as a symbol of progress, connectivity, and inclusivity, signifying his administration’s determination to modernise transportation infrastructure, reduce traffic congestion in the city, and enhance accessibility to all residents, be they visitors within and outside Abuja.

“Today, what we have in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is another piece of evidence that we are a government that delivers on promises. I keenly observe other milestones that this administration has achieved, especially in the areas of social services and other public utilities,” he said.

Earlier, Wike said that the Renewed Hope Agenda is a reality in the FCT and that he was using Abuja to prove that it is real and working.

“This is a promise made and a promise fulfilled. When we were sworn in, Mr President said to our dear chief host and landlord, I want to get rid of the Metro line; do not give me land. All I want is to ride on the Metro line.

“This means your Excellency knew a Metro line existed, but why did he say he wanted to ride on it? It was because it was not operational. That was why he said he wanted to ride on it; he would not have given that directive if it had been operational.

“That was why he gave a marching order for us to make it operational in the interest of the residents of the FCT. It was that directive that spurred us into action. We asked the Transport Secretariat why the Metro line was not in use, and they said it was commissioned around 2017 or 2018.

“We asked how you could have built train stations without access roads. The contract for the rehabilitation of this rail line was given in 2018, and it was awarded at the cost of $30 million, and it was not paid,” he said.
He explained that the presidential directive compelled them to plead with the central bank governor, finance minister, and federation’s accountant-general to support them.

“Without their support, it would not have been possible. We are talking about a renewed hope agenda: giving back hope to the people. Today, it is a reality. People will now be happy that I can come to the city and go back. Those who want to watch football can take the train to the stadium and watch,” he said.