₦airaland Forum

Kebbi First Lady, APC National Woman Leader, Others Honoured At Int'l Women Power Conference

The International Women Power Conference 2024 and Global Leading Women Awards, a 2-in-1 event has finally come to a successful end in Abuja with notable women from across Nigeria and beyond honoured for their contributions towards their dedicated philanthropy and humanitarian activities for development of individuals and the society, ABUJAPRESS reports.

The event organised by the International Goodwill Ambassador Club was the 9th in the series and was part of the organization’s efforts to recognise the giant efforts women have made in their spheres of influence to build the society.

Among those honoured include the First Lady of Kebbi State, Her Excellency Zainab Nasara Kaura, her predecessor and wife of former governor of the state, Her Excellency Fati Abubakar Atiku, the national woman leader and the governing APC, Hon. Mary Alile, USA/The Gambian citizen, Amb. Zainab Amusa Darboe Jammeh, Queen Mother Makhadzi, From USA, South African, Hon. Dr. Rebecca Omokamo Isaac-Godwin, Celebrity Carpenter, Chief Moses Amiebenomo, Collette Chibundo Mbamalu, Mrs Ebiere Empere aca and host of others.

Others are, Sterling Alternate Bank Regional Manager, Aisha Ashafa, APC Deputy National Women Leader, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim as well as Late Alhaja Habitat Mogaji(President Tinubu Mother) and Her Excellency Late Formal First Lady, Hajiya Mariam Ibrahim Babangida who were both honoured posthumously.

According to ABUJAPRESS, The event featured inspiring speakers, women rights advocates, politically exposed persons and thought leaders who have made notable efforts to improve lives and empower communities.

Speaking at the event, Abuja, Dr. Chris Odey, the President and Founder of The International Goodwill Ambassador Club, expressed happiness with the quality of individuals who graced the event.

He emphasized the importance of fostering a global network of women change-makers committed to leading with empathy, innovation, and a vision for a better future.

He assured that future editions will be larger and bigger as the organisation seeks to expand categories of recognition.

Reaction to the Expulsion of Prof. Chris Imumolen and 12 State Chairmen of the Accord Party by the Maxwell Mgbudem-led Faction

The announcement of the expulsion of Prof. Chris Imumolen and 12 state chairmen by the Maxwell Mgbudem-led faction of the Accord Party is both shocking and troubling, given the ongoing legal dispute over the leadership of the party. This development raises critical questions about the internal democracy and constitutional adherence within the Accord Party.

It is worth recalling that Maxwell Mgbudem was appointed as the Caretaker Committee Chairman in February 2023, with a clear mandate to conduct a National Convention within six months. Instead of fulfilling this obligation transparently, there are allegations that he and the then Secretary, Hon. Ajaja, undertook actions that sought to entrench their positions and sideline other party members.

Key Issues That Led to the Rancor

Unconstitutional Policies:
The alleged change in requirements for contesting elections, such as the imposition of a rule mandating candidates to have served a year in the National Executive, was seen as an attempt to exclude interested and qualified members from participating in the National Convention.
Sectionalization of Leadership Positions:
Offices were zoned to favor the committee members, with the National Chairman position zoned to the Southeast (Imo State, Maxwell’s home state) and the National Secretary to the Southwest (Ajaja’s region). This decision raised concerns of marginalization, particularly of the Northern members of the party, in clear violation of the party's constitutional provisions on national character.

Bias in the Selection of the National Convention Committee:
The same caretaker committee, whose members had vested interests in retaining leadership positions, handpicked the convention committee. This lack of transparency fueled further dissent within the party.

Amid these challenges, 27 state chairmen invited Prof. Chris Imumolen, a prominent and respected figure, to contest for the position of National Chairman. This move was seen as a necessary step to rescue the party from leadership stagnation and restore its integrity. Prof. Imumolen’s candidacy was particularly significant as he was the party’s first presidential candidate to demonstrate zeal and commitment to the Party, bringing it to national prominence through his investments and sacrifices.

During the convention, despite the alleged barricading of the venue by Maxwell’s supporters, Prof. Imumolen’s overwhelming support ensured the convention was held. He was subsequently declared the National Chairman. However, it later emerged that Maxwell and Hon. Ajaja, through alleged manipulation and existing relationships, were able to bypass the convention’s outcome and maintain recognition by INEC.

This factionalization led Prof. Imumolen and his team to seek legal redress. The FCT High Court granted an order recognizing Prof. Imumolen as National Chairman pending the determination of the substantive suit. However, a subsequent order to maintain the status quo resulted in the continued factionalization of the party.

It is deeply concerning that, while the court case remains unresolved, the Maxwell-led faction would announce the expulsion of Prof. Imumolen and 12 state chairmen. This action appears premature, divisive, and lacking in respect for due process. It undermines the principles of internal democracy and further deepens the factional crisis within the party.

The recent allegations of anti-party activities leveled against Prof. Chris Imumolen and his loyalists by the Maxwell Mgbudem-led faction are not only unfounded but reek of hypocrisy and selective justice. It is particularly laughable and ironic that those making these accusations have themselves consistently engaged in acts that undermine the integrity and independence of the Accord Party.

It is no secret that Hon. Ajaja, the factional National Secretary, maintains close ties with the PDP in Oyo State. The fact that the Oyo State Accord Chairman holds a position as Executive Secretary in charge of Asabari LCDA under the PDP government further underscores this alliance. These associations raise serious questions about their loyalty to the Accord Party and their commitment to its growth and principles.

How can individuals who have openly aligned themselves with another political party accuse Prof. Chris Imumolen—an individual whose sacrifices, financial contributions, and leadership have brought the Accord Party to national prominence—of anti-party activities? This selective accusation appears to be a desperate attempt to distract from their own questionable actions and maintain control of the party at the expense of its progress.

Prof. Imumolen’s contributions to the Accord Party are unmatched in its history. As the party’s first presidential candidate, he elevated its profile through significant financial investments, grassroots mobilization, and personal sacrifice. Unlike those who have sold out the party's interests for personal gain, Prof. Imumolen has consistently prioritized its growth and long-term viability.

If the Maxwell Mgbudem-led faction is serious about addressing anti-party activities, they should first examine their own house. The blatant disregard for the party’s constitution, zoning manipulations, and alliances with rival political parties undermine their credibility and expose their true intentions.

The Accord Party must distance itself from individuals who prioritize personal gains and external affiliations over the party's unity and vision. Prof. Chris Imumolen represents a new era of transparent, inclusive, and strategic leadership—a stark contrast to the factional and self-serving tendencies of the Maxwell-Ajaja group.

It is time for Accord Party members to reject these divisive tactics and rally behind leadership that genuinely seeks to build the party into a formidable force in Nigeria's political landscape. Let us not be distracted by baseless allegations but remain focused on the task of rebuilding and reclaiming the party's original vision.

In conclusion, these allegations are not just laughable but also a transparent attempt to weaken the rising tide of reform within the party. The Accord Party must rise above these distractions and refocus on its mission to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative in the political space.

All factions within the Accord Party must recognize the damage that such actions inflict on the party’s reputation and credibility. The focus should be on resolving disputes through lawful means and prioritizing the collective good of the party over individual ambitions.

Prof. Chris Imumolen’s leadership represents hope for a reformed and progressive Accord Party, and his contributions to the party’s growth cannot be dismissed lightly. It is imperative that the rule of law is upheld, and all parties await the court’s final judgment to bring clarity and resolution to the leadership crisis.

The Accord Party must rise above these internal struggles and work towards rebuilding its image as a party committed to democracy, fairness, and the aspirations of its members and supporters.


Signed

Comrade Lanre Ogundare

National Organizing Secretary

For the National Chairman

Insightful Deliberations As Twani Foundation Holds Internship, Mentorship Summit For Youths at Elite Brunch


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aUuibhvm_qk?si=OoHehVOmr5JtIT7v

A youth-based non-governmental organisation, Twani Foundation has successfully hosted a summit aimed at offering mentorship to forward-looking young Nigerians.

Titled "Nigerian Youth Internship and Mentorship Intervention Scheme", the summit which held in Abuja designed to create an avenue for young people to have opportunity to meet experienced businessmen and entrepreneurs who will train them and mentor them in one skill or the other to become useful members of the society.

With the theme "Empower The Youth, Empower a Nation" the summit was aimed at making young people creators of employment and not job-seekers.

Speaking at the Elite Brunch summit, which had in attendance serial entrepreneurs, business executives, captains of industries and government officials, the founder Twani Foundation, Angel Twani who is also the lead facilitator said a robust empowerment for young people will assist in accelerating economic development.

She said at a difficult period such as this across the country, helping young Nigerians attain their full potentials will be an opportunity for wealth creation.

Those who have achieved some milestones in life in their various fields also shared experiences on how they were able to navigate through in order to inspire young people.

Some of the mentors said the coming together of entrepreneurs and aspiring ones is very critical in order to exchange ideas, so that the younger ones cannot make the mistake of those who were before them.

Stakeholders were of the opinion that learning nitty-gritty of one skill or the other will help alleviate poverty.

Those in attendance include, Rita ladidi Goloto CEO, St Riteaz, Ruth Aguele NTA presenter, Queen Irene Onwuka founder Queen Irene Onwuka Peace Foundation, Chief operating officer Skyewise Group, Oluwaseun Odidi as panelists.

Others are, Comrade Dotun Omoleye representative of Minister of Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, Amb. Dr. Tseghomi ShoJay Oteri as speakers while the Special guest was Adaora Onyechere Sydney jack and Guest Speaker, Peter Igho among others.

Brands like the Hq market an on line store ,Psd logistics, Nate Genius films, Peace Ambassador Agency, AlexReports, Amity Global Network etc were also part of this inaugural edition.

WIB Fair Market Exhibition Records Huge Success, As Vendors Smile To the Bank


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyil3yb_n-k?si=Rc2Ooqom4_FTlJrh

The long-awaited Women in Business (WIB) market fair and trade exhibition has finally come to a successful end amidst huge impact and profits for both exhibitors and customers.

It was the coming together of vendors with array of goods and services from across Abuja the nation's capital and customers who are eager to transact and get value for their money.

The expansive Old Parade Ground, Garki Abuja was a beehive of activities from Nov. 1—3 as customers trooped in to pick items and services of choice.

Some of the vendors who displayed their wares could not hide their joy as they leveraged on the massive publicity the event provided to make brisk businesses.

The Convener, Ebiere Empere while addressing newsmen on the last day of the 3-day business gathering expressed satisfaction with the turn of Abuja residents at the event.

According to her, people were not just coming and going but were purchasing products, making the WIB fair market a huge success.

"I must tell you that the turnout was overwhelming. People were trooping in and buying products, and the vendors were happy that such opportunity was provided which they have leveraged on to increase sales and by extension, grow their businesses.

"Our profound gratitude goes to the Accountant general of the federation, Dr. Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, Ecowas president duly represented by director trade Director Kolawole Sofola and bank of industry. Also special thanks to our
our headline sponsors AMSTEL, official partner MTN ,Aqualina Water and Pay Ass. We are happy that women are harnessing their potentials for self-development, using the opportunity these brands provide", she said.

Empere, the founder of Okads Seafood and convener of WIBFAIR
encourages all state governments to embrace the Women In Business Fair as a way of empowering them to boast the respective states economy and is to create a larger access to economic opportunities for women. She further said the initiative will assist women to enlarge their customer base and create opportunities for smart shoppers and the general public to purchase at a discounted cost.

She appreciated vendors for their good conduct throughout the three days period, assuring that subsequent ones will be bigger and better
Looking forward to a more bigger exhibition in 2025.

Nigerians Lament As Amb. Wahala Calls For Removal Of More Ministers, Points Adelabu, Lokpobiri

An Abuja popular radio presenter and comedian, Oni Lukuman Olanrewaju popularly known as Amb. Wahala has called on President Bola Tinubu to sack more Ministers in his cabinet, accusing them of poor performance.

President Tinubu had recently relieved five Ministers of their duties a move that was applauded among Nigerians.

Amb. Wahala during his programme "Tori Wowoh" on Thursday on Love FM Abuja expressed dissatisfaction over the performance of the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, wondering why Nigerians will endure hours of blackout over consistent collapse of national grid.

According to him, some Ministers in the President's cabinet are bent on sabotaging his efforts to serve Nigerians and improve their lots.

He said Adelabu has demonstrated lack of capacity to discharge the mandate of his office and should have no business remaining a minister.

"The regular collapse of national grid has affected the economy at a time when the country needs power infrastructure to boost commercial and economic activities.

"The power Minister appears lack the technical and administrative know-how to give Nigerian families stable power supply despite the skyrocketing energy cost crippling businesses", he said.

Amb. Wahala also called for immediate sack of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri for his inability to deal with the long queues and guarantee steady supply of petroleum product across the country.

His call was also corroborated by callers during the radio who urged that Tinubu should get rid of ministers who are unable to perform.

Amb. Wahala who campaigned vigorously for President Tinubu expressed confidence he will leave Nigeria better than he met it.

He solicited for support and prayers to help the President succeed in office.

Seyi Tinubu Endorses "Leave Comedy for Shortcut" Show, Calls For Support of Creative Industry

Son of the President, Seyi Tinubu has endorsed the upcoming "Leave Comedy for Shortcut" (Wave 6.0) comedy show, where he also called on Nigerians to show support for development of the creative industry.

He made the call while playing host to the lead organizer of the comedy show, Ndubuisi Joseph, also known as Shortcut.

He expressed satisfaction that young Nigerians are making exploits in the entertainment industry both in movie, music and comedy.

While describing the sector as the largest employer of labour in the country, Seyi Tinubu applauded the federal government for devoting more attention to the development of the sector with the creation of Ministry of Culture and the Creative Economy, expressing hope that the new investment being made in the sector under the current administration will create the right atmosphere for entertainment to thrive.

According to the President’s son, a great supporter of the creative sector, he said Nigerian entertainers have helped to project the image of the country positively before the international community, urging them to continue to be good ambassadors of the country.

Coming up in city of Abuja, the 6th edition of the comedy show will hold on Saturday, November 30 at Transcorp Hilton hotel Abuja.

In his remarks, Shortcut applauded Seyi Tinubu for his support in the development of the sector, noting that comedy is one of the genre of entertainment that gives people relief from physical and psychological stress.

So much preparations have been put on ground to make this edition outstanding, which largely informed the choice and quality of artistes to perform.

Shortcut has been leading consultations where he has secured several endorsements ahead of the show which is gathering momentum.

Among others, Bondpay is leading as the headline sponsor of the highly anticipated comedy show.

Abuja residents are urged to come in their large numbers to witness the 6th edition which promises to be even more exciting.

African Women Forum Greets Edu@38, Says She Embodies Youthfulness, Strength, African Womanhood, Resilience, Accountability, Transparency

An non-profit organisation, the African Women Forum, AWF, has congratulated ab iconic woman f many parts,, Dr. Betta on turning 38.

AWF which is at the vanguard of the advocacy for increased women participation in the socio- economic and political process in Africa described Dr Edu as a personification of an embodiment of hardworking African woman.

In a congratulatory message issued by its Executive Director, Dr Awele Eweuzor, AWF said Dr Edu's 38th birthday presents a veritable opportunity to celebrate her contributions in giving Nigerian nay African women a voice.

"At 38, Dr Edu is worth celebrating by African women who know what it means for a woman to attain a position of authority and leadership in a patriarchal society like ours.

"So, we at AWF celebrate this icon, this young lady that parades brain and beauty; today, we celebrate Dr Betta Edu as she turns 38.

"Even in her youthfulness, Dr Edu represents a an inspiration and hope for the African woman.

"Here is a young technocrat, a medical professional that embodies
youthfulness, strength, African Womanhood, resilience, accountability,
transparency, diligence, hardwork and integrity. We rejoice with her, celebrate her and felicitate her on this momentous occasion of her 38th birthday", the group said in the statement.

AWF further urged Dr Edu to continue to be a strong voice for women in terms of inclusivity and increased women participation in the decision making process in Nigeria, particularly in the economic and political spheres.

"As you mark your 38th birthday today, AWF urges you to remain firm and continue to speak up for women- the vulnerable women in our midst- and also for more participation of women in leadership positions and decision making process, especially in the political and economic spheres.

We, on our part will at all times support you to succeed in the service of Nigeria. We are proud of you, our Amazon. Happy birthday".

Rotary Club Distribute Over 500 Packs Of Sanitary Kits, Sewing Machines To Celebrate Girl-Child in Abuja

In celebration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl-Child, Rotary Club of Abuja Jabi Lakeside has distributed no fewer than 500 packs of reusable pads to girls in Kuchingoro community in Abuja.

The outreach, which was in partnership with an NGO, Slay Dot Com Aid also trained the
beneficiaries on the production of the pads so as to boost self-sufficiency.

Speaking at the outreach, President of Rotary Club of Abuja Jabi Lakeside, Amobi Ogum expressed displeasure at instances where the girls-child stay away from school during their menstrual period, saying it has severe accumulated economic costs in the long run.

He pledged the continous support for the girl-child with projects and programs that will enable them to become confident members of the their societies.

The Rotary Club after the end of the training, 5 sewing machines were presented to some lucky recipients, with a charge that they should not sell them, but use them to their benefit and the communities.

The District Governor of District 9127, Mike Ukachi Nwanoshiri, who was the special guest at the occasion, commended the RC Abuja Jabi Lakeside for their commitment and dedication.

He said that girl-child empowerment is a key focus of his administration.

The traditional ruler of Kuchigoro, Chief Ibrahim Wambai, thanked the Rotary Club of Abuja Jabi Lakeside for their long-standing relationship with his community.

According to the community leader, the club over the years has intervened in their school, health centre, and other numerous empowerment initiatives.

He assured the readiness of his community to always remain peaceful and put all the empowerments brought to them to good use.