₦airaland Forum

Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa has urged the people of Bayelsa to keep faith with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as they go to the polls on Nov. 16 to elect his successor.

Dickson, who made the call in a radio broadcast, on Sunday night, monitored by Nigeria News Agency in Yenagoa, noted that voting against the PDP would amount to betrayal of trust to PDP faithful nationwide.

He said that the faithful of the party who supported former President Goodluck Jonathan to become President would be disappointed if the people of Bayelsa dumped PDP for the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).

He advised the people to make informed choices between Sen. Douye Diri of the PDP and Chief David Lyon of the APC haven heard the candidates sell their plans as they canvassed for votes in a peaceful atmosphere.

“I advise Bayelsa people in their own interest to keep faith with PDP; the followers of PDP across the country who made sacrifices and supported one of our own to become President will feel disappointed if we abandon PDP.

“It is on record that some of them were attacked for supporting former President Goodluck Jonathan and so it is only reasonable that we remain with PDP,” Dickson said.

On the purported rift with Jonathan over the choice of the PDP governorship candidate, Dickson blamed ‘political jobbers’ for making misleading comments and misrepresenting his actions.

Dickson said that those who claimed to be working for Jonathan did not mean well for the former President.

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/11/bayelsa-election-do-not-abandon-pdp-gov-dickson-begs-bayelsans/

Japanese automaker Toyota will begin recalling 679 imported Lexus cars from Nov. 16, due to defective pneumatic rods, according to China’s market regulator.

Filed by Toyota Motor (China) Investment Co., the recall will involve Lexus CT200h models manufactured between Jan. 30 and March 12, 2019, the State Administration of Market Regulation said in a statement.

Due to defective electroplating process by suppliers, surface of the pneumatic rods on the vehicles might fracture, which will pose safety risks, said the administration.

The company will check the serial number of the pneumatic rods and replace the defective parts free of charge.(Xinhua/NAN)

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Hon. Adeyemi Adaramadu, Chairman, House Committee on Youth Development, says the 9th National Assembly is dedicated to making a difference in youth empowerment and development rather than the usual stereotype of complacency.

Adaramadu made the pledge in an exclusive interview with the Nigeria News Agency at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.

“This 9th assembly that we are entrusted with by the grace of God and again by the benevolence of the Honourable Speaker, right Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila to be in the committee of youth development, we want to make a difference.

“ We want to make sure that it is not going to be the stereotype that we are just in the office, I am the chairman, there is a deputy chairman, there are members, they just come to meetings, and we eat groundnuts and then drink coke and just deliberate like that and go.

“ No, no, no, we want to go out to the offices, we want to make sure that all those centres whereby the goodies are for the youth of Nigeria, we tap into, so we can get across to them and bring those deliverables out for the youth of Nigeria to benefit from them.

“We are going to do away with this era of talking things for youth of Nigeria, mouthing it, saying yes the youth constitute between 60 and 65 per cent of the population of Nigeria, fine.

“ But what are we doing to make sure that that 60 or 65 per cent we put them together and make them useful even to the populace, even to the Nation and even to themselves,“. (NAN)

visit for more news; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/07/youth-empowerment-rep-committee-pledges-to-make-difference/

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Deputy Gov. Rear Admiral Gboribiogha, retired John-Jonah, Gov. Nyeso Wike of Rivers and the Mr Timi Alaibe, who came second in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP )primaries in Bayelsa, were absent at the party’s mega rally.

The mega rally, which was held on Wednesday at the Oxbow Lake Pavalion in Bayelsa to kick-start the party’s campaign ahead the Nov. 16 governorship election in the state.

Speaking at the rally, the National Chairman of the PDP, Mr Uche Secondus warned security agencies against being used to rig election for the opposition parties.

He stated that the PDP would resist any attempt to hijack electoral materials for any party or group of politicians.

Secondus urged Bayelsa people to vote for the PDP as the only political party that can take them forward.

The chairman decried lack of federal presence in terms of roads, bridges and infrastructural development in the state.

Speaking on behalf of other PDP governors, Gov. Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, said that Bayelsa belongs to the PDP and boasted that no other political party can defeat them.

He said that Gov. Seriake Dickson had done very well for the Bayelsa people, noting that no other political party could win any election in the state.

In his speech, Gov. Dickson of Bayelsa, said... for more details, visit; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/07/bayelsa-jonathan-wike-john-jonah-alaibe-absent-from-pdp-mega-rally/

On Dec. 16, 2018, at the closing ceremony of the 19th National Sports Festival (NSF), “Abuja 2018,’’ Edo was announced as the host of the 20th edition of the biennial sports festival.

Solomon Dalung, the then Minister of Youth and Sports Development, said the state was chosen after careful assessment of its bid.

The minister said Edo beat Delta, Imo and Cross River states to win the hosting right.

Gov. Godwin Obaseki of Edo, who was present at the occasion, assured that the state would live up to expectation.

“We accept this challenge and will be ready to host the whole of Nigeria as expected in Benin in 2020,” Obaseki said.

Obaseki went down the memory lane to explain that the then Bendel, now Edo and Delta states, won the NSF hosting right in 1981, while Edo played host to the rest of Nigeria in 2002.

The Ministry was careful in granting Edo the hosting right to avoid the circumstances that led to not holding the festival for six years.

At the closing ceremony of the 18th NSF in Lagos in 2012, Cross River was announced the host of the 19th NSF.

The state could not put the necessary infrastructure in place for the festival to hold in 2014.

As a result of failure from the Cross River Government the hosting right was withdrawn, while the 19th NSF eventually held in Abuja in 2018.

To avoid delay, the Edo Government hit the ground running immediately the state won the hosting right.

The main venue, Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, has been undergoing reconstruction in the past one year, and is almost 95 per cent completed.

Femi James, the site engineer of Peculiar Ultimate Consult, said the stadium would be one of the best in the county when completed.

According to James, the main bowl of the stadium will boast of required FIFA facilities such as surveillance monitor and standard studio that will make it easy to relay live matches.

“As you can see, a lot have been achieved; while various fittings are currently being installed with others completed, installation of seats is also being completed.

“This stadium which is about the best in the country will be fitted with surveillance monitor 5km radius and also studio facilities.

“It will be about the only stadium in the country with these facilities, the stadium will only be compared to that in Uyo and Abuja when completed.

“As for the tracks, we are done with the ground work and only awaits the arrival of the facility from Germany which payments have been made,” he declared.

James said that besides the tracks, payments have been made for the flood lights and the score board.

“We have already installed lights inside all the covered stands and also installed the shadow casting lights for the turf; we are only awaiting the arrival of the flood lights and the score board for installation.”

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, who recently undertook a tour of the stadium, commended the governor on his administration’s commitment to deepen sports development by investing in the reconstruction of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium and other sporting facilities in the state.

He said that based on what is on ground; the state was prepared to host the 2020 NSF.

Obaseki, on his part, said the state was ready to host the NSF.

“I am impressed with the total rebuilding of the stadium to a 21st century model edifice. We have built the pitch; the tracks are to be replaced. The swimming pool, long tennis, and indoor courts are all wearing new looks.”

Mr Philip Shaibu, Edo Deputy Governor and Chairman, 2020 NSF Local Organising Committee (LOC), assured that all sporting venues and facilities will be ready by Dec. 31, 2019.

Shaibu reinstated that in accordance with rules of such big sporting tournaments; the mascot and theme song for the games have already been unveiled with 100 per cent local content.

The mascot was named “Etin,” which in Benin dialect means, strength and designed by Anthony Ifemeje.

He restated that the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, the main venue of the festival and other complementary venues were almost completed.

Shaibu said that apart from the National Stadium, Abuja, Edo will be the first state to have a double game event for squash, while the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, now has an Assisted Video Recorder (AVR) facility ready for use.

He said that all the 12 sub-committees were working round the clock to ensure hitch-free festival.

He said that the Main Organising Committee (MOC), would soon commence training of desk officers that would handle the accreditation of athletes and officials.

The deputy governor said the services of between 2,000 to 3,000 volunteers would be needed to ensure smooth management of the games.

He said the volunteers would be recruited through advertisement to be placed on the games portal to make for the smooth running of the games tagged, `Return of the Native.’

“ Edo was on recess for 11-12 years, which made Nigeria to lose its potential. “

“We are ready to host other 35 states and Abuja in the Return of the Native.

“ Edo is ready to take its pride of place in sports,” Shaibu said.

Mr Mike Itemuagbon, the Chairman, Marketing Sub-Committee, said no fewer than 8, 500 athletes are expected to participate in the 20th edition of the NSF, which will hold from March 22 to April 1, 2020.

The athletes will compete for 3,000 medals from 33 sports in 22 venues.

Itemuagbon called for synergy between the publicity and the marketing committees, and urged the publicity committee to use various platforms to sell the festival to the world.

“Nothing will be left to chance in a bid to ensure the best organised NSF in the country, but then, we must be up and doing in our various assigned responsibilities.

“We must understand that the media and marketing drive sport, so we must use our various platforms to propagate the Edo2020 event,” Itemuagbon said.

In order to ensure free movement of athletes and officials to competition venues, Gov. Obaseki said that plans had been concluded to purchase over 100 new buses, which will be added to the Edo City Transport Service (ECTS) fleet.

According to the governor, the state is already finalising talks with relevant stakeholders to supply the vehicles.

All hands should be on deck to enable Edo deliver on its promise of organising a world-class National Sports Festival. (NAN)

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/06/national-sports-festival-edo-getting-ready-to-host-the-nation/

Immediate past National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Waheed Odusile and other officers purportedly suspended by the National Executive Council, NEC, has described their suspension as illegal and of no effect.

The officers through their lawyer O.D Okeke esq have also given the NUJ 21 days to reverse the purported indefinite suspension and publish it in two national dailies.

Failing to do so, “we shall not hesitate to invoke our client’s right under Section 36 (1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) by having recourse to available but avoidable litigation in the law court.”

The lawyer warned that his clients cannot be intimidated or cowed by any unconstitutional or illegal conduct by Mr. Chris Isiguzo through NUJ invariably being where his powers starts and ends.

“Our Clients shall lawfully, legitimately and constitutionally continue to pursue the criminal act of Certificate Forgery by NUJ President Chris Isiguzo no matter whatever antic he employs.

“We shall not hesitate to bring the full weight of the law against any person or group of persons who attempts to harass, intimidate or criminally interferes with our clients in the performance of their elected duty.”

In a letter dated 01-11-2019 and addressed to the NUJ National Secretary Barr. Okeke noted that the purported suspension is a clear and flagrant violation criminal breach of Articles 7 and 5 (B) of NUJ Constitution.

The letter stated that the affected officers were never served any notice of allegation against them or giving any opportunity to be heard.

He expressed shock that an allegation grievous as certificate forgery against the embattled President Mr. Chris Isiguzo was brought to the notice of NEC, yet it chose to turn blind eye by failing to activate Article 7 and investigate the veracity of the certificate allegations.

“But NEC were so swift to purportedly suspend…is this not a clear case of double standard, different strokes for different members?The letter said it is against natural justice (fair hearing) to indict a person for any real, known or imaginary allegation without giving such a person opportunity to be heard.

“It amounts to abuse of office and fundamental breach of the NUJ constitution by employing selective or different standards in handling the affairs of members.

“The purported suspension is a punishment unknown to the constitution of NUJ and therefore ultra vires, unconstitutional and of no effect, null and void. No one can place something on nothing and expect it to stand.

“The NUJ constitution did not provide for State of the Nation to be discussed by NEC. Therefore any decision any resolution purportedly reached by NUJ during NEC meetings under State of the Nation amounts to usurpation of the powers of National Delegates Conference, the Supreme authority, of the union. NB: “without prejudice to Article 4(a)–(c) above, there shall be a National Conference at least once in every two years, during which the state of the union will be discussed.”

“The criminal silence on the issue of certificate forgery against the incumbent NUJ President Mr. Chris Isiguzo will continue to hunt NUJ by dragging it’s name, image, and reputation into public ridicule and Odium.”

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The Enugu State Government on Tuesday said it had commenced plans to train 120 farmers on how to grow tomatoes massively in the state.

Mr Benjamin Onuze, Acting Director, Technical Services, Enugu State Agricultural Development Programme (ENADEP), made this known in an interview with the Nigeria News Agency in Enugu.

Onuze said that the tomato seedlings were improved variety, brought by the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology for the state to be among tomato-growing states in the country.

He said that the purpose of providing the improved variety tomato seedlings to the state was due to the quality of the soil.

He noted that the soil in the Southeast was good for growing such improved variety of tomatoes.

“With the provision of these tomato seedlings by the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, the Enugu State Ministry of Agricultural has come up with plans on how to train 120 farmers in growing the tomato seedlings.

“The seedlings will be given to the 120 farmers from six agricultural zones of the state after the training. These zones include Agbani, Awgu, Enugu, Enugu-Ezike, Nsukka and Udi zones.

“We will be establishing 0.25 hectares of tomatoes’ demonstration plot in five zones and half a hectare in Enugu zone,” Onuze said.

He said that the state ministry of agriculture would begin the training immediately, so as not to miss out in the next tomato planting season as the rain was gradually reducing.

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/05/enugu-govt-to-train-120-farmers-on-tomato-farming-official/

The Court of Appeal, Enugu division on Friday, at about 2.30pm delivered judgment on the Appeal filed by Chief Victor Umeh and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), seeking to set aside the judgment of the Tribunal which earlier affirmed Senator Uche Ekwunife’s election.

Justice Ignatius Igwe Agube while reading the Judgment signed by two other Justices, dismissed the Appeal filed by Chief Victor Umeh and his party, APGA for lack of merit.

Senator Victor Umeh in his reaction, thanked the Governor of Anambra state, His Excellency Willie Obiano and all APGA supporters for their faith and resilience.

Full Statement

Today, the Court Of Appeal, Enugu Division delivered Judgment in my Appeal filed in respect of the Anambra Central Senatorial District Election conducted on 23rd day of February, 2019.

The Justices of the Court in a unanimous Judgment dismissed my Appeal.

Being the Final Court vested with Authority by our Constitution over National Assembly Election Matters, I hereby... For more details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/11/01/anambra-central-sen-victor-umeh-reacts-to-appeal-court-judgment/

NACCIMA Women Organisation (NAWORG) Enugu chapter on Wednesday presented ‘Outstanding Women Achiever’s Award’ to the Special Adviser to Mr President on Justice Reform, Barr. Mrs Juliet Ibekaku-Nwagwu.

The award was in recognition of her excellence as an astute administrator and for her support to women empowerment.

Mrs Ibekaku-Nwagwu who was represented by Hon. Maureen Uzoamaka Anosike thanked NAWORG for the award and recognition, dedicated it to all the Nigerian women especially those in the rural areas.

The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) Business Women Group is an organisation comprising all women entrepreneurs and business owners who are members of the national association.

The Organisation is aimed at facilitating Enugu, women in participation in commerce, micro, small and medium business enterprise.

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https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/30/ibekaku-nwagwu-receives-award-dedicates-it-to-nigerian-women/

Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has nominated Adamu Atiku, the eldest son of the Presidential candidate of the PDP in 2019 general election, Atiku Abubakar, and 22 others as commissioners.

The list was read out at the Wednesday plenary of the Adamawa House of Assembly presided over by the Speaker, Alhaji Aminu Iya-Abbas.

The Nigeria News Agency reports that the PDP Secretary in the state, Alhaji Abdullahi Prambe, also made the list.

Atiku loyalists, Ibrahim Mijinyawa and Umaru Daware who resigned their position as commissioners under former Gov. Muhammadu Bindow’s administration and defected to the PDP, were also nominated.

Speaking on the list, the House Committee Chairman on Information, Mr... For details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/23/governor-fintiri-nominates-atikus-son-22-others-for-commissioner/

There was panic on Saturday night around Zoo road in Kano metropolis when a lion escaped from its cage at Kano Zoological garden.

Nigeria News Agency reports that the incident happened around 9 p.m. when the rangers were trying to put it back to its cage after they returned it from the national agricultural show which took place in Nasarawa state.

A source at the zoological garden told NAN that effort was being made to... For more details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/20/panic-as-lion-escapes-from-kano-zoological-garden/

The Igala Cultural and Development Association (ICDA) has declared its support for Mr Musa Wada, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Nov. 16, Kogi governorship election.


ICDA made the declaration in a communiqué issued in Lokoja on Friday, at the end of a meeting between its executives and some stakeholders.

The communiqué was signed by acting President of the association, Mr Shaibu Mohammed and secretary, Mr Saba Alex-Amuda.


ICDA said its decision to support Wada was informed by... For more details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/19/kogi-election-igala-association-declares-support-for-pdp/

The Enugu State House of Assembly Committee on Lands and Foreign Investment has frowned at the high rate of N160, 000 that surveyors in Enugu State charge to survey a plot of land.

The Chairman of the Committee, Mr Ibenaku Onoh, frowned at this in Enugu on Thursday during a meeting with the Surveyor- General of the state, Mr Godwin Ishiwu and other principal officers of the department.

Onoh said that the meeting was a... For details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/18/outrageous-enugu-house-of-assembly-frowns-at-n160-000-survey-rate-for-plot-of-land-in-enugu/

The Lagos State Government says it is partnering with Igbo market leaders in Lagos West Senatorial District to ensure infrastructure development in marketplaces in the area.

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said in a statement on Thursday that the consultative meeting with Igbo market leaders from Alaba, Trade Fair axis in Lagos West Senatorial axis was coordinated by Managing Director, Fidelity Bank, Mr Nnamdi Okonkwo.

He said that the meeting centred around the state government’s plans to improve securityand upgrade infrastructure around the markets.

Sanwo-Olu said that the discussion was aimed at... For details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/18/lasg-igbo-markets-to-ensure-infrastructure-development-in-marketplaces/

The Court of Appeal, Enugu grants motion for substituted service on 1st respondent’s last known address and 2nd Respondents state secretariat.

The appellants was represented by K. P Luke Esq and T. T Awuhe.

The appellate court however adjourned till... For More Details, Visit;
[b]https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/17/just-in-ibekaku-nwagwu-vs-ekweremadu-appeal-court-grants-motion-for-substituted-servi[/b]ce/

The President, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Dr Ayuba Wabba, has described as mere speculation, reports of agreement to a 20 per cent and 13.5 per cent consequential adjustments for workers on Grade Levels 7-14 and 15-17 respectively.

At the minimum wage meeting, Wabba said although organised labour and the government’s representatives have made concessions, they were both discussing to reach a definite agreement on the salary adjustments.

“We have made progress in many areas, the areas we are talking is that of implementation and the consequential adjustment, that is the..." For details, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/17/agreement-on-minimum-wage-percentage-increase-mere-speculation-labour/

His Excellency, Chief Dr. Willie M. Obiano (Akpokuedike Global) The Executive Governor of Anambra State has restated his commitment to make Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University and other tertiary institutions in Anambra State a reference point in Nigeria.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Quality Control (Tertiary Education) Dr. Constance U. Nzeako made this known during a courtesy visit to Prof. Greg Nwakoby, The Vice Chancellor, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

Dr. Constance Nzeako, a distinguished academia per excellence with published scholarly works in reputable journals across the globe reeled out the vision and... For Details, visit; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/16/obiano-vows-to-transform-chukwuemeka-odumegwu-ojukwu-university-others/

President Muhammadu Buhari has signed five bills passed by the 8th National Assembly into law, Mr Umar Yakubu, his Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives) has said.

Yakubu who made the announcement at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja, said that the Acts were to ensure good governance in the country.

The bills include the Obafemi Awolowo University Transitional Amendment Act, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi Amendment Act, the University of MaiduguriAmendment Act, the National Fertiliser Quality Control Act and the Nigerian Council of Food Science and Technology Establishment Act.

He said that the University... For more details, Visit; https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/16/buhari-signs-5-bills-passed-by-8th-assembly/

Chief David Lyon, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, has promised to correct all the mistakes of the Peoples Democratic Party-led government, if elected as governor.

Lyon, who pledged to be a servant leader, if elected, gave the promise on Tuesday during the launching of the APC governorship campaign organisation at the David Lyon Campaign Office in Yenagoa.

He said that the PDP government in the state had impoverished the people in the past years, adding that people must all unite to send the party packing come Nov. 16.

According to him: “We must work hard; we must be united; the victory of the party lies on those of us who are here today.

“We must be courageous; I know..." continue reading on;

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/15/bayelsa-guber-ill-correct-pdps-mistakes-if-elected-lyon/

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State at the Government House, Enugu on Tuesday handed over sixty five (65) patrol vans to the state command of the Nigeria Police Force to aid its security operations.

The sixty five (65) Patrol Vans were among the 100 units of Innoson vehicles recently purchased by Gov. Ugwuanyi’s administration to assist the security agencies in the state to effectively discharge their duties to enhance the peace, security and development.

Gov. Ugwuanyi who had earlier unveiled the vehicles to journalists at the Government House, Enugu, explained that the 100 units of the patrol vans will be handed over to Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police and Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps, among others.

The governor added that another 260 vehicles as well as motorcycles and bicycles were also purchased for distribution to the Forest Guards and Vigilante/ Neighborhood Watch groups for community policing.

Speaking after receiving the keys to the 65 vehicles from Gov. Ugwuanyi, the State Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Abdulrahman who received the vehicles on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, Adamu Mohammed Abubakar, commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for “this wonderful gesture”, describing the governor as “an unassuming personality, a symbol of peaceful co-existence and the architecture of modern security in Enugu State”.

The police commissioner added that the governor’s gesture was a demonstration of his commitment and determination to secure the people of the state and sustain the state’s glory of being one of the most peaceful in the country.

Abdulrahman stated that Gov. Ugwuanyi has given them the tools to work round the clock, and patrol tirelessly in all nooks and crannies of the state “while doing our investigations and surveillance”.

The CP who assured the governor of the force’s resolve to utilize the vehicles for the purposes for which they were purchased, advised his officers and men against the use of the security cars to attend to their personal needs, saying “you will see them (vehicles) on all our roads, in all the nooks and crannies of the state doing the job”.

He, therefore, prayed that God continues to sustain, preserve and give the governor good health “so that the people of the state and country will reap more from his leadership qualities and milk of human kindness.”

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/15/65-security-vehicles-enugu-cp-hails-gov-ugwuanyis-committment-leadership-qualities/

Lawmakers in the Enugu State House of Assembly have said they would initiate bills that would take care of the activities of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the state.

The Assembly’s Committee Chairman on Rural Development, NGOs and CSOs, Mr Johnson Chukwuobasi, made the disclosure in Enugu on Tuesday during a familirisation meeting with NGOs and CSOs in the state.

“I wish to remind all of you seated in this complex that under my watch, it will no longer be business as usual; members of the committee will soon be initiating bills that will take care of the activities of NGOs and CSOs in Enugu State.

“I strongly believe that some of the challenges you are having in the field will be accommodated in it.

“I want to use this medium to remind all of you that in as much as our passion and commitment is selfless service to humanity, it must be done within the confines of the law. Any NGO or CSO that fails to live up to expectation will be sidelined.

“As the chairman of this committee, I am more of a rural rugged person. I spent major part of my life in the hinterland and I am so much worried that your impact has not been felt at the grassroots,” he said.

Chukwuobasi said that they would be given a form to fill for documentation; the form would assist them in partnering with the government, adding that activities in it would be reviewed periodically.

He promised to assist them within the best of his ability if they would be honest and passionate with their work.

The committee chairman commended them for their time, effort and resources they had committed in the course of discharging their duties.

He equally applaud them for their passion, noting that he was not trying to undermined their efforts, urging those that had programmes in the hinterland to keep doing what they know how to do.

Contributing, the member representing Nsukka East Constituency, Mr Chinedu Nwamba, praised them for their contributions during the budget, noting that it showed they were familiar with every item in the budget.

Nwamba said the Assembly would continue to partner with them, especially in their oversight functions and in other programmes of the House and urged them to always approach them for clarity instead of using criticism.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director, Divine Era Development and Social Rights Initiative (DEDASRI), Mrs Ogechukwu Enwelum, said that the work of NGOs and CSOs was to help and monitor government activities and indicate where they did not do well.

Enwelum said that government would not have been without the assistance from CSOs, adding that they had been doing their best to assist in the implementation of government policies and programmes.

She said that their work was charity, noting that they should be commended for the ones they had done because nobody pays them.

The executive director said that on the part of CSOs they had done well challenging government to do their part, adding that they were the brain behind most of the government programmes in Enugu State.

While contributing, the founder of Daniel Ukwu Leadership Foundation, Mr Daniel Ukwu, said the greatest problem they were facing in the country was not being able to say things the way it is because of personal interest.

Ukwu said the government would never identify where they were going wrong until people tell them the exact position of things in the society, noting that NGOs were on ground to identify problems but government do not listen to them.

He called for synergy between the government, NGOs and CSOs to enable things work effectively again.

Similarly, the Founder of Civil Society for Eradication of Tuberculosis in Nigeria, Chief Goddy Agujiokah, said that his NGO had visited Nkanu East, Igbo-Eze South and North Local Government Areas respectively to sensitise people on dangers of tuberculosis.

Agujiokah urged Enugu State Government to assist NGOs with counterpart funding to enable them access funds from international partners to do some renovation of schools and other programmes.

In a related development, the Assistant Coordinator, Albino Foundation, Enugu State chapter, Mrs Nonye Ogbuagu, said that they needed help from the government to sensitise teachers in various schools on how to treat children with albino to avoid cancer, noting that cancer was one of the major challenges.

Ogbuagu said that on her own part, she had carried out sensitisation programmes to the rural areas to ensure that children with albino were well protected and urged the government to help and provide them with protective cream and sun shades to avert skin cancer.
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https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/15/enugu-house-of-assembly-to-initiate-bills-to-take-care-of-activities-of-ngos-csos-in-the-state/

Gov. Mai- Mala Buni of Yobe on Monday announced the reopening of Gaidam weekly market with immediate effect.

The market had been shut for about a year following Boko Haram attacks on the commercial hub.

Buni made this known in a Town Hall meeting with the people of Gaidam, in Gaidam local government.

He also approved the upward review of curfew in the town from 6 pm to 10 pm as well as the recruitment of 150 vigilante members to boost the existing 50 vigilantes who are complementing the troops in clearance operations.

“The closure of Gaidam market will only worsen the security situation in the town rather than improving it, considering the number of youth in the town and strategic location of the market.” Buni said.

He enjoined the people of Gaidam to be prayerful and cooperate with the security operatives, as security is everyone’s affair. (NAN)

https://dailypost.ng/2019/10/14/boko-haram-yobe-government-reopens-gaidam-market-one-year/amp/

The 29 passengers on a board a commercial bus that plunged into a canal in front of the National Theatre complex, Iganmu, Lagos, on Monday. were all rescued unhurt, the Nigeria News Agency reports.

NAN learnt that the vehicle, with registration number MISA 68 XH, suddenly developed technical problem and plunged into the canal opposite National Theatre entrance.

The driver of the bus, Mr Augustine Okorie, who spoke to NAN, described the survival of the passengers as a “miracle’’.

“I was bringing in 29 passengers from Shinbiri area in Okokomaiko along the Badagry Expressway and on getting to the front of the National Art Theatre, I lost control and the vehicle plunged into the canal.

“As I was about to change the gear and could not do that immediately, the vehicle started to swerve uncontrollably and before you know what was happening, we found ourselves inside the canal.

“In spite of the situation, I was so worried about my conductor who was hanging by the door, but we thank God none of us sustained injury,” Okorie said.

An official of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), who refused to be identified, told NAN at the scene of the accident that they quickly alerted other emergency and traffic management agencies who assisted in the quick rescue of occupant of the vehicle.

NAN, however, reports that the vehicle was brought out of the canal 30 minutes later by officials of Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA)
For more information, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/14/29-passengers-rescued-unhurt-in-lagos-canal-accident/

Dr Abisoye Abayomi, an Oncologist based in Lagos, on Sunday said that men were not exempted from screening for breast cancer.

Abayomi disclosed this in an interview with Nigeria News Agency in Abuja.

The Oncologist said that even though men do not develop milk-producing breasts, their breast cells and tissues could still develop cancer.

“Breast Cancer in Men is real. Many people don’t know that men can get breast cancer because they don’t think of man as having breasts.

“Admittedly, the occurrence of breast cancer in male subjects is quite rare with a 1 in 1,000 ratio compared to the 1 in 8 in women.

“Men who are afflicted with this type of cancer are less likely to survive the disease than women,” he said.

Abayomi said that currently, knowledge on the causes of breast cancer was not sufficient; therefore, early detection of the disease remained the cornerstone of breast cancer control.

“When breast cancer is detected early, and if adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured.

“If detected late, however, curative treatment is often no longer an option; in such cases, palliative care to relieve the suffering of patients and their families is needed.’’

He urged Nigerians not to be scared to get screened, stating that it was the cheapest way to identify and manage cancer.

According to Abayomi, breast screening process takes just 20 minutes and that can help to change one’s lifestyle for the better.

The Oncologist said that if anyone was concerned about developing breast cancer, they might be wondering if there were steps they could take to help prevent the disease.

He said that while risk factors like genetics and age could not be avoided, measures could be taken to lower risk of breast cancer, mainly by staying healthy.

Quoting Hippocrates of 400 BC, “Let thy food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food’’, Abayomi said: “and still so relevant today; prevention is key.’’

NAN reports that breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women worldwide, both in developed and developing countries.

In low and middle-income countries, the incidence has continued to rise steadily due to increase in life expectancy and urbanisation, among other factors.

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/13/cancer-awareness-men-are-not-exempted-from-breast-cancer-screening-oncologist/

This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Sokoto by Mr Sama’ila Umar, Acting General Manager, Sokoto State Water Board.

The statement said that Mr Craig Wolf, General Councillor, USAID General Council office, Washington DC made the commitment when he visited the water board headquarters in Sokoto.

The statement quoted Wolf as saying that USAID was committed towards ensuring adequate supply of safe drinking water to the people.

According to the statement, USAID will continue to fulfill its part of the partnership in the area of water supply.

It said that the visit was to ascertain the agency’s achievements in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene services (WASH).

It further quoted Wolf as expressing happiness that the activities of the agency had potentials of impacting positively on the people of the state.

“This visit has afforded us the opportunity to ascertain the level of achievements recorded so far, it will help us determine other form of support to the people,” it quoted Wolf as saying.

In a related development, the Sokoto state Water Board has announced possible shortage of water supply in Sokoto metropolis and its environs due to a faulty transformer.

The board’s Acting General Manager, who said this in a statement on Sunday, said the transformer powering the treatment plant went faulty due to fluctuating power voltage.

He said the board was working tirelessly to restore power in order to meet the water supply needs of the people.

Umar said the board regretted the inconvenience the situation might cause the residents.
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https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/13/sokoto-usaid-restates-commitment-on-potable-water-supply/

The Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) says it will roll out a 114,740 pre-paid meters to its customers in Ondo State within the next two years.

Mr Abu Ejoor, BEDC Executive Director, Commercial, made the disclosure on Saturday in Akure at the Media Launch of Ondo State Meter Asset Provider (MAP) Scheme.

Nigeria News Agency reports that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission(NERC) recently introduced MAP to bridge the metering gap in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

The main objective of MAP regulations by NERC is to encourage the development of independent and competitive meter services,.

It is also to eliminate estimated billing, close the metering gap through accelerated meter roll out and enhance revenue assurance in NESI.

Ejoor said that a monthly average of about 10, 000 meters would be installed at peak level, after the initial take off and build up period.

He said that metering would take off from four locations in Akure North and Akure South Local Government areas of the state.

“In taking off, MAP in BEDC will have up to three months of building up on the meter roll out, during which the MAP parties will be understanding the terrain and the customers understanding the requirements.

“This may initially make the metering process appear slow.

“However, the roll out will eventually pick up with the expected monthly run rate of 10, 000 meters and a total of at least 114,740 meters within the next two years,” he said.

Ejoor, who listed Igbatoro, Ijapo, Alagbaka and Ilesha Road, said that FLT Energy Systems Ltd and Sabrud Consortium Nigeria Ltd had been chosen as the MAPs to undertake meter installation in the state.

He said that the MAP parties would carry out a street by street enumeration of customers in the locations as a prerequisite for metering.

According to him, customers will be required to complete the customer data and survey form, known as “Know Your Customers ” which will be available online on BEDC website.

He said that after customers had been confirmed to have been enumerated, they would obtain and fill the meter application form.

According to him, after that approved electrical officials will access customers’ premises to ensure they are properly wired in readiness for metering.

“Once a customer’s premises is cleared as ready, such customer will be advised on how to pay for the meter; whether single phase or 3 phase, the price of which are N38, 350 and N70, 350 respectively.

“We advise customers not to give cash to either MAP or BEDC staff and should pay to only bank accounts, designated by the MAPS.

“Our customers are enjoined to cooperate with the enumerators going round the various locations in the state, by responding promptly to requests for completion of enumeration form.

“Part of the requirements are a passport photograph, a utility bill for postpaid customers and vending slip for prepaid customers, telephone numbers and email address.

“This is also a prerequisite for metering as the customers’ data need to be captured for meters to be given out. Those who are not yet BEDC customers will also be enrolled. ”

Visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/12/ondo-bedc-set-to-roll-out-114-740-prepaid-meters-in-2-years/

Indian High Commission has so far trained 529 Nigerians in Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) in the past three years.

Mr. Abhay Thakur, High Commissioner of India, disclosed this at the 55 years Anniversary ceremony to mark the ITEC Day in Abuja on Friday.

He said that the ongoing ITEC year for 2019-2020, the government of India was offering about 14,000 scholarships to the partner countries with Nigeria having 250 slots.

“I am happy to inform you that during the ongoing ITEC year 2019-2020, government of India is offering around 14,000 scholarships to the partner countries, out of these, 250 slots are available for Nigeria, 32 for Cameroon, 10 for Benin, 5 for Chad and 5 for ECOWAS.

” In the last 3 years Nigeria has utilised 529 ITEC slots, Benin 20, Cameroon 90 and Chad 21.

“I would add that the number of slots can be increased further if we see significant, say about 80per cent utilisation of existing ITEC slots.

“Since the inception of ITEC programme in 1964 more than 200,000 professionals from across the world has participated in various training programme.

“I am particularly pleased to inform that, against the target announced at the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) in New Delhi in October 2015 that India will train 50,000 people in different areas.

“We have already trained more than 40,000 persons in four years. We had also made a commitment of USD 10billion in Lines of Credit to Africa and we have crossed 6.5billion.

“I feel delighted that we have been able to add much substance to our capacity building assistance to Africa through the ITEC programme,” he said.

The envoy, however, noted that short term and long term degree scholarships have been added to the ITEC programme under the Africa- Specific IAFS scholarship scheme, as well as educational programmes.

Also speaking, the Minister of Defence, Maj.-Gen. Bashir Magashi said that India and Nigeria has gone a long way in it diplomatic relations since the pre-colonial independence of Nigeria.

Magashi, who was represented by the Director, Air Force Affairs Department, Mr. Ashibel Utsu, said that most Nigerians born in the early 70 were delivered by Indian doctors and taught by Indian teachers.

” India and Nigeria has alot in common in terms of our cultural diversity, population, size and general way of life.

” It is therefore encouraging that these friendship and good will that has existed between both nations is being sustained through the programme and other collaborations from Nigeria.

” I sincerely commend the Indian government for these effort and the annual host of the ITEC day, which brings alumni together to share their various experiences,” he said.

NewsPortfolio reports that the ITEC programmes is fully funded by the India Government annually.

For more news, visit;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/12/indian-high-commission-trains-529-nigerians-in-3years-high-commissioner/

Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) has urged the Federal Government to ban the Big Brother Naija show from the nation’s television telecast space.

The Chairman of CLO, Anambra chapter, Mr Vincent Ezekwueme, made the call on Thursday while speaking with the Nigeria News Agency in Enugu.

Ezekwueme said that the yearly cable television show only make negative impact and influence on Nigerians especially youths.

He appealed to the National Assembly to as a matter of morality, enact laws that would ban the airing of the programme in Nigeria.

The CLO noted that the show had no benefits in transforming lives of youths or discovering talents among them.

According to him, evils triumph not because of those who do it, but because good people allows it to happen.

“It has painful, shameful, negative and devastating impact on our youths, culture and society.

“Our religious leaders and moralists should... Read more at;
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/11/ban-big-brother-naija-show-in-nigeria-clo-urges-fg/

Businessmen in Enugu State have expressed optimism that the inauguration of a chapter of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC) would boost their businesses.

Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi will be delivering the keynote address at the inauguration ceremony of the Enugu chapter slated for next week.

Interim Chairman of NACC, Ifenayichukwu Ugochukwu, at a press conference in Enugu, yesterday, said the chamber when inaugurated, would pressure the government to hasten the reconstruction of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu to whorl declass standard to assist the growth of commerce and industry in the South East.

“We would push for the development of the cargo aspect of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport. We would also send draft bills to the state House of Assembly that would help in protecting businesses in Enugu as well as attracting investment growth in the state, among others,” said Ugochukwu.
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/10/nacc-enugu-inaugration-ugwuanyi-to-deliver-keynote-address-next-week/

The Nigerian community in South Africa has announced the death of Mr Paul Chicaodili Nwanedo, Chairman of the North West Province chapter of the Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA).

Nwanedo was a native of Osina in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo. He is survived by a wife and three children.

Mr Collins Mgbo, Secretary of NUSA, said on Wednesday that Nwannedo, 51, died on Oct. 4 at his residence in Rustenburg, North West Province of South Africa.

“Each of us not only grieves at the passing on of a tremendous individual, a committed leader and a respected fellow, but also for the loss his family suffers.

“Prior to his death, Nwanedo expressed his desire to have contributions made to Nigerians living in Rustenburg, North West Province and South Africa in general through the umbrella body, Nigeria Union, South Africa,’’ he said in a statement e-mailed to the Nigeria News Agency from Johannesburg.

He said that Nwanedo had served Nigerians in different capacity for more than a decade.

“We have lost a dear friend, valued leader and colleague,” he said.

Nwanedo’s wife, Nonsi, a South African, said
https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/09/nigerian-community-in-south-africa-loses-provincial-officer/

Former Child Bride, Rescured, Assisted Back To School, By Anambra State Commissioner For Women Affairs;

By Vincent Ezechukwu

It was an emotional moment yesterday evening, 8th September, 2019, as Miss Chinwendu, a former Child bride, whose story went viral on social media few months ago resumed school, through the benevolence of Anambra State Commissioner For Women and Children affairs, Lady Ndidi Mezue.

The story of Miss Chinwendu, who was forced into an arranged marriage, is one among many such stories in other states of the federation, however, here in Anambra State, the outcome was expectedly different from the rest of the pathetic stories, due to the kind intervention of Anambra State Commissioner For Women Affairs.

Futune, I can emphasized, smiled on the young girl when her illegal marriage was reported to the commissioner, who meticulously, followed up the matter by convincing the girl to walk away from the marriage, through counselling and other Psychotherapies.

The Honorable Commissioner, made sure Chinwendu, soon after walking away from the marriage, was rehabilitated, trained in tailoring and empowered with other 100 Ndi Anambra by Industrial Training Fund, ITF.

Concluding the process of healing and rehabilitation, she was today, in an emotional scene, accompanied by the Honorable Commissioner, his elderly father and some staff of the ministry of women and children affairs, to the school where she will restart her education and a journey to put her life back on track.

https://newsportfolio.com.ng/2019/10/09/child-bride-how-anambra-commissioner-rescued-assisted-teenage-girl-back-to-school/