₦airaland Forum

Group asks President Tinubu to purge MINT, NIRSAL, others of Emiefele’s cohorts

By Ngozi Ode

A Texas-based pro-good governance group, League of Patriots has appealed to the President and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to, as a matter of urgency purge Nigeria Security, Printing and Minting, popularly called MINT and Th Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending NIRSAL of all Emiefele-Boys who thronged out with him from Zenith Bank.

The group said Emiefele perennially ran those strategic institutions controlled by the Central Bank of Nigeria with utmost and untamed impunity with his Zenith-Bank clique.

League of Patriots is a Nigerian pro-good governance and investment-promoting group, based in Austin Texas. The group in their Zoom meeting with membership participation from USA, Europe and Nigeria frowned that if its previous outcry about the activities of Godwin Emiefele were heeded, Nigerians would have been saved from a lot of difficulties Emiefele’s currency redesign policy caused them.

The League, as it is fondly called, noted that Godwin Emiefele ran a cult-like policy with his clique from Zenith Bank to fill strategic institutions for the purpose of self-aggrandizement and self-enrichment. MINT and NIRSAL were two strategic institutions The League identified as hubs of corruption and inefficiency.

“You recall that Mr. Masanawa was quite reckless like his principal in running MINT. Aside from violating the Code of Conduct Act by sitting on a board of private companies with which he siphoned money to acquire property, buy shares in other private businesses and fund his political ambition, he took corruption to another height with his team members. Funny enough, one of his types replaced him when he resigned. Mr. Ahmed Haliru. It was just a game of hitmen. Something close to what we say in Nigeria – chop, I chop”

“Our message is simple. As a
strategic partner in progress, and as Nigerians who desire a change not only in words but in actions, we appeal to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to, as a matter of national urgency purge these strategic institutions where Emiefele riling impunity festered across.

“We hold the view that Mr President should be more interested in serving Nigerian people who elected him than serving the interest of those who have a history of corruption. He should ensure that the likes of Masanawa, Haliru and their likes in NIRSAL do not get away with the crime they have committed against Nigeria people.

FOOD & NUTRITION: Master the Art of Preparing Delicious and Nutritious Bitter-leaf Soup

Assignment presented by:

Gambo Joy

Ahmadu Bello University Zaria,
Department of mass communication.
Registration number: U19MM2008

Nigerian Bitter Leaf Soup is a traditional delicacy that has been around for generations. This soup recipe is one of the most popular dishes in Nigeria and its neighbouring countries.It is known for its unique bitter flavour, created by adding blended cocoyam, bitter leaf leaves and with other ingredients.

This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating this delicious dish at home. With the right mix of spices, you can experience authentic Nigerian Bitter leaf Soup made from scratch in your own kitchen.

Bitter leaf soup is a regional symbol of Igbo cuisine for the Anambra people of Eastern Nigeria. It is a representation of who they are. Ofe Owerri is a traditional dish enjoyed by the people of Owerri, Imo State. It has become an integral part of their culture and is considered a delicacy. But what of the Anambra people? What dish or cuisine defines them? This article will explore a particular dish or cuisine that is to the Anambra person what Ofe Owerri is to the Owerri person.

Bitter leaf Soup is a hearty meal that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. If you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing its unique taste, it is time to give it a try. With our step-by-step guide, you can easily make this delicious soup in your own kitchen.

The ingredients are simple yet the end result is an incredibly tasty dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more!For your perfect bitter leaf Soup recipe, You need the above listed ingredients;
Bitter leaf, 10 , small corms cocoyam, 3 cooking spoons Red Palm Oil, Assorted Beef: Includes best cut, Assorted fish, Dry fish and stock fish.Onion (optional), Pepper, salt, and ground crayfish (to taste), 3 stock cubes, 1 teaspoon Ogiri Igbo (traditional seasoning).

Here are the step by step guide on how to cook bitter leaf Soup or how to cook onugbu soup (Ofe onugbu) at home in less time.

— It is very important to wash bitter leaves properly so they are absolutely free from bitterness. If not, wash and squeeze them more. If the bitterness cannot be washed away (which is usually the case with the bitter leaves sold in stores), boil it for about 15 minutes and wash it in cold water.

— Wash and cook the cocoyam till soft. Remove the peels and use a mortar and pestle to pound the corms (if you have boiled ede, wash and pound) to a smooth paste. Add a little bit of oil and stir very well.

— Wash the shaki very well with warm water and salt. Put the shaki in your cooking pot.

— Wash the beef and add it to the pot of the shaki. Add your washed stockfish, dry fish, assorted, and any other meat you are using to cook this meal.

— Season with pepper, seasoning cubes, salt and ground crayfish. Stir, cover it and allow it to heat up. After some minutes, put your chopped onion, cover and cook for 4 mins. Now add water, stir, check if the soup is asking for more season then, adjust if necessary.

— Add the ground crayfish, pepper, bitter leaves (if they just have not been parboiled), and the cocoyam paste (in small lumps) and cook for 10 minutes.

— Then add the palm oil Note: If the bitter leaves were parboiled in order to remove the bitterness, then for step 3 add the ground crayfish, pepper, the cocoyam paste (in small lumps), and the bitter leaves.

— Now, make all the components of this dish at this stage. Cover the pot and leave to cook on high till all the cocoyam lumps have dissolved.

— You can add more water, if necessary, to get the soup to the right consistency. Add salt to taste and the soup is ready.

Bitter leaf soup is a Nigerian dish made with the leaves of Vernonia amygdalina, a plant found in many parts of Africa. The soup has numerous health benefits, including:

1. Boosting the immune system – The high levels of vitamin C in bitter leaf soup help to boost the immune system and fight off infection.

2. Reducing inflammation – The bitter compounds in the leaves help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can help to alleviate conditions such as arthritis and asthma.

3. Supporting cardiovascular health – The antioxidants present in bitter leaf soup help to protect against damage to the heart and blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Snail-paced education reforms affecting nat'l dev't, Stakeholders, others, tell FG

…advises FG to assume responsibility for teachers' training

…calls for immediate curriculum, remuneration review to reflect current realities

By Ezra Ukanwa, Abuja

AS education continues to be one of the focal points for discussion in Nigeria, particularly on how it affects national development, stakeholders have highlighted poor reforms in the industry as part of why the country has not seen remarkable progress in recent times.

Pointedly, they noted that past governments, for a long time, failed to carry out education to keep up with the rapidly evolving industries and technological advancements worldwide.

They added that the outdated curriculum and teaching methods in many educational institutions are not equipping students with the skills and knowledge required by industries.

The stakeholders who spoke to SUNDAY VANGUARD at the sidelines of a symposium, organized by Afrelib, themed: "From the classroom to the world: Redefining teaching for the 21st century", held Saturday, in Abuja.

Bemoaning the poor remuneration of teachers, the co-founder of Afrelib Academy, Joseph Kolawole Ajuwon, made a case for the salaries of teachers to be increased, considering how much emotional and practical effort they invest in sculpting a child's mind.

He said: "There's no way that you can say that it's a noble profession and then say because it's noble, that you do it for free, or for love. Love doesn't put food on the table. We all know that. But it starts with the headship of organizations of schools, and government. If we can understand the value these teachers offer society, offer the children, and we begin to evaluate as such, we should be able to start looking at the remuneration package and the compensation.

"Now, we know that there are lots of different types of schools, there are fee-paying schools and their state schools, so it's not all the time that we can afford a better wage for teachers. But at the same time, there has to be a conversation between the teaching professional, the unions, and the organizations that actually teach the teachers and value their profession to have that conversation with the government, with the school owners and the school headship. There needs to be a correction."

He added that the Federal Government, FG, as a matter of urgency, must take charge of the training of teachers as part of moves to ensure the right teachers are deployed to pass the right education.

"And the government has a fantastic role to play in setting the agenda, in supporting the agenda, in influencing that agenda about teachers' training; the right level of support and qualifications that needs to have been put in place", he said.

On his part, an Educational Administrator, Dr. Emmanuel Aina, while delivering his Keynote address, recommended a review of the curriculum for teachers' education with particular attention to technology.

He also corroborated the need for the current administration to thoroughly review teachers' remuneration to enable teachers to stay afloat amidst the current economic hardship bedeviling the country.

"All of us as stakeholders-bodies teachers, teacher trainers, examination bodies, government, the private sector, parents, guardians, students, donors, and sponsors must make a collective and collaborative effort towards reversing the ominous dangers of which paper qualification portends for education. We commend those who are already heading this desirable direction.

"We urge you that in our effort at salvaging the situation to consider the following: A review of our curriculum for teacher education with special attention to technology and emphasis on teaching for cognitive, affective and psychomotor outcomes. A realistic remuneration package for teachers in order to attract the best to the teaching profession and to enhance their social standing."

Additionally, he said the government must: "Consider a return to the basics by reverting to the Grade 2 teachers programme side by side with SSCE. Elongation of the PGDE programme to give it more coverage of the mechanics of teaching. Registration licensing by the TRCN should be after a more rigorous process that needs to be more active and visible in its oversight functions of monitoring, discipline enforcement and publicity."

Adding her voice, the academy’s head of operations/program, Joyce Gomina, advised the current administration to: "take the teaching profession seriously. It should be taken with all dedication and commitment because every profession is as a result of some form of tutelage. So, you can't become any professional without going through the four walls of a classroom and going through the teachers. So, putting in a very low qualification or low expectation for teachers is, first of all, a gross error.

"I think the qualification and the expectation for teachers should be the highest because for you to be able to create excellence, you should be excellent yourself. So, it's important that the expectation for teachers, the qualification, expectation or requirements, the bar should be high so that teachers who come in will not be discouraged and then maybe decide to go low in their practice or decide to make changes that they're not supposed to make."

Read more on: https://www.naijoinfonews.com/2023/08/13/snail-paced-education-reforms-affecting-natl-devt-stakeholders-others-tell-fg/

Right Group Backs Rep Ogah's Defence Of Prof Nnenna Oti

By Ezra Ukanwa, Abuja.

A Human Rights group interested in fighting corruption "National coalition Against Corruption" has backed the defence on the vice chancellor of the federal university of technology owerri(FUTO), Prof Nnenna Oti by the member Representing Ezza South/ Ikwo Federal Constituency in the National assembly, Rt Hon Chinedu Ogah

The National Convener of the right group, Engr. Chinedum Elekwachi in a statement to newsmen in Abuja on Saturday described the defence of the Honourable member as timely saying it is in the interest of justice and comradeship

He cautioned ASUU for what he described as overbearing explaining that membership to a union is not by force but on a free will therefore anyone can resign anytime he or she feels to do so.

He maintained that ASUU has been characterized by selfishness and has become a shadow of itself stressing that any attempt to malign Rt Hon Chinedu Ogah, the union will be dragged to the mud as the right group is prepared to unveil the acts surrounding the union

The National coalition Against Corruption warned ASUU to stay clear from the vice chancellor who has distinguished herself as a firm believer in due process and as an extraordinary Nigeria.

Global Ambassador of Youth Democracy Cohort, Yusuff Stands Firm Against Coup in Republic of Niger, Commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Timely Intervention

As the Global Ambassador of Youth Democracy Cohort of European Partnership For Democracy and Founder of the YouthElect initiative, I stand united with the people of Niger in condemning the recent coup attempt that threatens to undermine democratic governance in Africa.

The Youth Democracy Cohort is unwavering in its commitment to upholding democratic principles not only in Africa but across the globe.

The attempted coup in the Republic of Niger is a direct assault on the fundamental rights and aspirations of the Nigerien people. It is essential that we rally together to protect and preserve the democratic institutions that ensure fair representation, freedom of expression, and respect for the rule of law.

I would like to commend the timely intervention of Nigerian President and Chairman of ECOWAS Authority Head of Government, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in addressing this crisis. His resolute stance against the coup and unwavering support for democracy in the region are commendable. Such decisive leadership sets an example for other nations and reaffirms the importance of regional cooperation in safeguarding democratic values.

In the face of this challenge, it is crucial for the international community to lend their support to the people of Niger in their pursuit of democracy and stability. As the Youth Democracy Cohort, we call upon all stakeholders to engage in peaceful dialogue and to respect the will of the Nigerien people as they strive to build a stronger and more inclusive democratic future.

Democracy is not merely a form of governance; it is a shared commitment to protect the rights and aspirations of all citizens. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to safeguard democratic values, empower the youth, and foster a culture of inclusive governance in Africa and beyond.

Together, let us stand firm against all attempts to undermine democratic governance and work hand in hand to build a world where the voices of the youth are heard, valued, and included in shaping the future.

Signed:
Yusuff Liadi Abiodun
Global Ambassador of Youth Democracy Cohort and Founder,
YouthElect initiative
yusuffliadi01@gmail.com

JOSEPH ASUKU BELLO: AN ODE TO A PURPOSEFUL LEADER

By Hamza Yakubu

Humans are driven by the desire to be spectacular. We derive satisfaction from this innate aspiration for some sense of importance. Often times, this is the birthplace of our dreams, how we convince ourselves to stretch a little bit more just to achieve that goal. When people declare intentions for leadership positions, it is sometimes an attempt at fueling this ego. It is easy to misconstrue the responsibilities of leadership and pull your followers into a succession of promises coated with lies. True leadership has never been about lording over helpless subjects, or hoodwinking people who have chosen to place their trust in you. It is pertinent to know that those who want to conquer the world must first conquer themselves and those who desire to lead must first learn to serve. Leadership is an opportunity to connect with the desires embedded in the heart of a people and bond with them through a set of shared goals in a bid to fulfill these desires. We have seen empires rise and fall and history has taught us that true leaders are forged from the breast of empathy and refined by the will to strive against all odds. The emergence and evolution of democracy has maintained a level of civility in the process of choosing a leader. There is an empowerment of the populace in the enthronement and sacking of leaders. However, this doesn't seem to have mitigated the probability to choosing leaders who end up becoming cankerworms in society. It is therefore phenomenal to find someone who understands the dynamics of leadership and readily offers himself to the service of the people who have elected him.

When the people of Adavi and Okehi Local governments in Kogi State were presented with the opportunity to choose who to represent their community, they knew they had to vote someone whose heart was open enough to welcome their plights and take every necessary step to solve them. On the 23rd of February, 2019, they unitedly voted a cerebral leader, politician, iconic administrator, business mogul, and governance czar to represent them in the 9th House of Representatives in the National Assembly. It was a mind-boggling victory! The campaign process had seen Hon. Asuku reaching out to everyone at the grassroot level, convincing them that this wasn't the regular debacle concocted by desperate politicians whose sole aim has always been the fattening of their purses. The people saw his sincerity. They knew how hard he had worked towards developing their communities even before he declared his intention to pursue a political career. It was his large heart that won them over, opened their eyes to his brilliant strategies, to all the possibilities he placed before them. There was no doubt in their hearts as they marched in their numbers to the polling units for a man they truly believed in.

On his declaration as the winner to represent Adavi/Okehi federal constituency in the green chamber, the people went wild with jubilation. His victory was an answered prayer, an unveiling of a new chapter, filled with promises of better days. The entire Adavi and Okehi came to life, exuberance wafted through the land, heralding the hope ignited in them. However, his victory wasn't without opposition. Revolutionary strides come with the zeal to wage through the storm. Positive changes do not happen without fierce oppositions. When his opponents filed a court case challenging his victory, he was pertinacious. He kick-started his tenure on a very high note, putting his hands to the plough. Even when the pressure worsened, he followed up with the court proceedings while also discharging his duties as a legislator. Eventually, the court declared him the winner of the election after examining all the evidence. The verdict and judgment on the case affirmed his victory, which he described as a testament to the will of the Adavi/Okehi people.

For Hon. (Engr) Joseph Asuku Bello, the call for effective representation and the overwhelming votes he received during the election testified to his acceptability in his constituent. He knew how much the people had trusted him and the expectations that lingered in the corners of their hearts. This was a chance to show them how right they were to stand on his mandate. When he began his duties as a legislator, every step he took was an intentional gesture toward addressing the most pressing needs of the people. Strikingly, his impressive start at the green chamber caught the attention of many Nigerians, including his colleagues and the leadership of the house as he was always contributing brilliantly to issues of discussion and proffering pragmatic solutions to problems and challenges facing the country at the plenary of the green chamber. A feat that was unreservedly credited by many across the country. People began to testify to his exemplary traits. He was that intelligent, humble, vibrant, amiable, ingenious, and charming law-maker.

The trumpeting of the jubilant masses and the validation of his galvanized colleagues were a reflection of his uniqueness. Hon. Asuku is an assiduous and astute leader and throughout his time as a legislator, his resplendent demeanour mirrored a servant leader. When we journey through his achievements as a law-maker, his one-time representation impressively dazzles the heart. Hon. (Engr) Joseph Asuku Bello invested in the development of his people, and his performance has been truly overwhelming. This is seen through the bills and motions, his facilitation of laudable projects to his constituency in education, health, agriculture, roads, empowerment, good water, and employment.

As a member of the legislature, it is necessary that a law-maker is profound in policy formulation and establishing laws that would ameliorate the hardship. Hon. Asuku Bello showed a high degree of competence in lawmaking as he has proposed developmental and issue-based bills and motions on the floor. Some of the bills he has to his name are:
A bill for an act to provide for the compulsory teaching of vocational studies in the syllabuses of secondary schools and for other related matters.
A bill for an act to prohibit the award of engineering works to unqualified person(s) and companies and for other related matters.
A bill for an act to convert and rename the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital comprehensive health centre, Ihima to the federal university of Lokoja teaching hospital, Ihima.
A bill for an act to provide for the inclusion of fire safety education in the school curriculum and other matters connected therewith.
A bill for an act to amend the criminal code act CAP C39 laws of the Federation of Nigeria 20044 and other related matters.

Accompanying the bills to his name, Hon. Asuku Bello also moved several motions that speak to national issues. Some of them are;
Motion on the need to inquire into the imposition of fees for renewal and replacement of national identity cards by the national identity management commission.
Motion on the need for the rehabilitation of Lokoja-Okene roads to ease the pains of the commuters.
Motion on the urgent need for federal ministry of interior to adopt computer based online methods to conduct promotion examinations and aptitude tests for officers and men of the paramilitary agencies under its jurisdiction.

The bills and motions were just a tip of an iceberg in the spectrum of what Hon. Asuku had to offer to his people. They say education is the bedrock of every society. As someone who loves education, his achievements in this sector is phenomenal and monumental. He facilitated the building and furnishing of two blocks of six classrooms in Okehi Community Secondary School, Ihima, two blocks of five classrooms in Government Day Secondary School, Iresuha, a block of two classrooms in Okehi Community Science Secondary School, Eika Ohizenyi, a block of three classrooms in LGEA Primary School, Osara. He also renovated and furnished a block of two classrooms in Community Secondary School, Egge. These projects were inspired by his zeal to improve the quality of education and increase the level of literacy in his constituency. In the same vein, he supplied classroom chairs and tables, textbooks, notebooks, school bags, sandals, mathematical sets, calculators, and other school essentials to over 40 primary and secondary schools in Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency. He also ensured the provision of free JAMB forms to over 5000 students in the constituency, and scholarships (primary, secondary, and tertiary) to over 1000 constituents. These were feats that reiterated his commitment to the restructuring of the educational sector in his constituency.

Hon. Asuku Bello secured employment for about 100 youths in different MDAs and corporate organizations including the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Maritime University, Nigeria Security & Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), University of Calabar, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Civil Service Commission, Public Complaint Commission, and Insurance Company

The dilapidated roads in his constituency were not exempted from his grand scheme. Hon. Asuku Bello facilitated road projects in the Etegoza-Obangede community in Okehi Local government and Ebogogo-Enyidudu and Inoziomi-Iresuha communities in Adavi Local Government. These projects have eased the transportation of constituents and reduced the rate of accidents.

Hon. Asuku Bello has always been particular about safe drinking water. Knowing that access to clean water is a problem bedeviling his constituents, he began the rehabilitation of abandoned boreholes and provided motorized boreholes to different communities in the constituency. One of these projects stood out due to its peculiarity. The rehabilitation of an abandoned borehole that had been in existence for over three decades in Adavi-Eba was nothing short of historical. After the rehabilitation, the borehole now serves over 1000 households. The motorized boreholes were also introduced to communities like Egge, Inorere, Eika Ohizenyi, Abobo, Usungwe, Ohuepe, Omavi, Obangede, Ikuehi, Obeiba, Oboroke, Okunchi, and many others.

True to his promise, Hon. Asuku Bello accomplished his power projects which cut across different communities. He was keen on communities' access to power, especially those deep in the rural area. In lieu of this, he provided and installed 300kva/32kv transformer in Omavi and Uboro communities in Okehi Local Government. These communities had been in total blackout for close to a year before his intervention. He also extended this gesture to Anyoke and Osara communities in Adavi Local Government ensuring the provision and installation of 300kva/33kv transformer in these communities. He also provided solar-powered streelights in Oboroke, Ikuehi, Inoziomi, Ohueta, Ebogogo, and Iresuha communities.

Hon. Asuku Bello understands the importance of agriculture as a source of livelihood in any society. He worked fervently to ensure farmers are fully supported and well-equipped in Kogi State, particularly Adavi/Okehi federal constituency. He spearheaded the provision of capital to over 500 farmers in order to encourage macro agricultural practice. He also distributed agricultural products such as rice, maize, wheat seeds, and palm seedlings to farmers in Aku, Osara, Abobo, Irepeni, Iresu'are, and other farm centres in Adavi/Okehi constituency. Furthermore, he set up training programs to enlighten farmers on the most effective agricultural techniques and empowered over 1000 agric entrepreneurs in poultry, fisheries, snail farming, maize, and rice farming across his constituency. He also distributed fertilizers, farmers' protective kits, spraying machines, and other items to 400 selected farmers in his constituency.

The development of the people is the biggest achievement any political officeholder can make. Hon. Asuku Bello knows the importance of investing in people, and this spurred him to provide motorcycles to 150 people in his constituency. He also established means for skills acquisition including training in ICT, catering, aluminum fabrication, tailoring, plumbing, and hairdressing. These programs had over 500 beneficiaries whose lives were changed drastically. Fifty thousand naira soft grant was given to 600 small business owners in the constituency.

As an advocate of quality health care, he was on the front-line in the movement for the restructuring of the health sector. The renovation of the model primary health centre in Adavi Local Government was another impressive feat by Hon. Asuku Bello. This was accompanied by the provision of refrigerators, beds, televisions, chairs, tables, and other medical equipment, and a supply of medical essentials and protective equipment to some selected health centres in the constituency.

Covid-19 was one of the most impactful eventful in years with so many people negatively affected. During the lockdown, food items and sanitary materials such as bags of rice, bags of semovita, cartons of noodles, Dettol soap, hand sanitizers, and other items were distributed to not less than 200 households in each ward in the constituency. A total of 4,500 households benefitted from this program. Also, a radio sensitization program that lasted for 8 weeks was organized across radio stations in Kogi Central, where medical/health professionals were invited to educate and orientate the people on the effects and preventative measures of the coronavirus.

This is the journey and stewardship of a man who distinguished himself as a paragon of virtue and a reputable political office holder. He has set a standard that his successors must live up to and broken generational barriers to bring his people into a new dispensation. History will remember his open arms, his soothing words, this man whose heartbeat resonates with the throbbing in the chest of his people. When we say the name, Hon. Asuku Bello, it will always remind us of how we found a miracle in a man.

2023 Africa Day: Africans urged to show Africa's greatness through storytelling

By Ezra Ukanwa, Abuja.

Africans, particularly Nigerians must learn to tell stories of Africa that projects its greatness, creativity, progress and development, the Founder, Africa Thru My Eyes, ATME, Naomi Osemedua, has said.

This was as she unveiled Africa Thru My Eyes — a social enterprise, as part of efforts to lend a voice in telling African stories to the World, during the week, in Abuja.

She added that Africa is filled with alot of potentials and that Africans must learn to dwell on the positives not the negatives.

She said: “Sharing stories from different parts of Africa is sure to foster greater understanding and a stronger sense of pride of identity, empathy and appreciation for the continent’s rich cultural diversity. ATME is committed to the promotion of the many positive narratives of Africa and dispelling the stereotypes that often dominate mainstream media globally. Storytelling is also aimed at talking about the food, the culture, the fashion, the music, the nightlife and everything else that Africa represents."

“It is a dream come true that we are officially launching the social enterprise, Africa Thru My Eyes" and you might wonder “why my eyes”? It is because I believe we all see differently. If I have to place an object here, and I ask multiple people to share what they see, it will amaze you how we are all looking at one object, yet there is so much diversity in how we see the object. That is what we plan to do with Africa Thru My Eyes.”

“We want to see Africa not just through our eyes as an organization but also through your eyes. As diplomats here in Nigeria, we want to know what Africa looks like through your eyes. At the end of the day, it is the stories we all tell. Someone once said that it was not just about sitting back and doing nothing, because if you do not tell your story yourself, you put the power in the hands of the person who is telling the story on your behalf.”

She disclosed that the first phase of initiative of the team is to launch the ATME storytelling academy with 1000 young Africans, assuring that in the next five years, there will be an army of storytellers across the continent.

ANWBN urges for more women's participation in Governance

It is about 3 months since the general elections in Nigeria, and a new administration is been sworn in. But what percentage of that administration is women? Of the 92 women who contested for the Senate in the February elections, only three won, while out of the 286 who contested for seats in the House of Representatives, only 15 have been declared winners.

On Thursday, 11th May 2023, the Association of Nigerian Women Business Network (ANWBN), a coalition of over 70 women business associations, in collaboration with Women Radio (WFM 91.7), organized a roundtable conversation that focused on the topic: "A Review of The Role of Women in 2023 Elections: The Way Forward.", the online discourse had over 150 participants in attendance. The event featured experts drawn from the Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE), Civil Society Organisations, Business Membership Associations, the National Democratic Institute (NDI), elected female politicians, female party candidates in the 2023 General Elections, and potential female politicians.

There is no doubt that elections can substantially impact women's lives, especially in countries where women have historically been marginalized. Elections can allow women to participate in the political process and have a say in the policies that affect their lives, including those related to economic opportunities. It is well known that women are more vulnerable to poverty and its consequences than men. They often have less access to resources and services that can help them to make a living and provide for themselves and their families.

Gender gaps in political/business participation and representation are a significant issue in Nigeria that needs to be addressed. Although progress has been made in recent years, women still remain underrepresented in both political and business spheres in the country. The low representation of women in these leadership positions can have serious consequences, as policies and decisions made without adequate input from women would be less effective and inclusive.

The virtual event was to determine how to create viable linkages between women entrepreneurs and female politicians and provide opportunities for pooling resources to promote inclusive gender governance and identify specific ways women entrepreneurs can support women seeking public offices in preparation for the 2027 general elections to enable women position for better representation at each level of governance.

In her opening remark, Angela Ajala, The National Coordinator for ANWBN, questioned the position of women’s voice. She urged every woman to reposition for the 2027 general election.
Mrs. Foluke Ademoku, the chairperson of the Advocacy Committee, gave a quick reminder on the focus of ANWBN in using the space to advocate on key issues about women in business and governance, gender inequalities, poor representation of women in leadership, and political participation.

The Keynote Speaker, Amb. Dr. Kema Chikwe, former minister of Aviation, in her remarks, encouraged women to support women that have what it takes to get to an elective position, and she appreciated every woman that contested in the last general election.

Ene Obi, the Executive Director of Action Aid Nigeria, recommended that women need to start strategizing to become party members and be part of the party election national committee; there should be more women in party leadership. With that, women will get a ticket to contest for political positions.

Mrs. Ifeyinwa, in her conclusion, charged women to walk their talks; women must come together under a structure. She proposed another meeting under a strategic committee collaborating with women and men to commit continuously and consistently to achieving women's intended goals.

At the virtual event, the Centre for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) and Action Aid Nigeria gave their goodwill remarks and recommended that ANWBN should focus on engaging further with key stakeholders with the upcoming administration and form allies by pulling resources together in an attempt to solve the questions raised.

Also present at the event were Mrs. Ebere Ifenudu, President of Women In The Politics Forum, Khadijah Okunu Lamidi, a former presidential candidate for the Social Democratic Party, Hajia Saudatu Mhadi, a member of the Board of Trustees for WRAPA, Dr. Abimbola Akiyode-Afolabi, the Executive Director of the Women's Advocate Documentation and Research Center (WADRC), Mrs. Uchenna Ifeoma Obi, a former member of the Orumba Anambra State House of Assembly and other women in business.

Some of the females who contested in the 2023 general elections shared their experiences during the elections and encouraged other women to walk the talk when it comes to politics.

The roundtable provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas and experiences on the challenges faced by women in politics and business, and the need for concerted effort to address gender gaps and biases. The discussions focused on the importance of creating an enabling environment for women to participate in politics, including addressing barriers to political participation, promoting women's political leadership, and supporting women's economic empowerment.

Alleged Corruption: Resign, surrender for investigation, N/Delta, Northern Youths, others tell Bawa

By Okwe Ugwu

YOUTHS from various ethnic groups and over 100 anti-corruption crusaders, Thursday, called on the Executive Chairman, Economy and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, to resign and surrender for investigation, following allegations of corrupt activities by various quarters.

They made this call during a protest staged in Lagos, to press home their demand that "If Bawa remains adamant, he should be forced out and subjected to a comprehensive probe."

Among other accusations, they alleged that about 80 per cent of cases under EFCC investigations are not taken to court.

Among others, they also recalled how Zamfara state governor, Bello Matawalle, alleged that Bawa demanded the sum of $2million from him as a bribe to stop a purported probe against him.

The protesters held placards with inscriptions such as “EFCC chairman must go”, "Bawa must step aside”, among others chanted slogans advocating for proper investigation into Bawa's alleged corrupt escapades.

The convener, National Movement for Democratic Change, Engr. Godfrey Osolase, who read a statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator, Niger Delta Youth Congress, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan; National Coordinator, Initiative for Ethics and Value Orientation, Comrade Bello Idowu; and National President, Northern Youth Frontiers Alhaji Mustapha Musa.

Osolase explained that the reason for the calls were based on global standards of practice for officials who had been accused of gross misconduct to step aside while investigations were conducted to ascertain the veracity of the allegations.

He said: "We demand that if Bawa remains adamant, he be forced out and subjected to a comprehensive probe the way his predecessor Ibrahim Magu was made to do. Since it is obvious by now that the Buhari administration
which brought Abdulrasheed Bawa is not disposed to initiating action, we call on the incoming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make it first priority to cleanse the EFCC of
corrupt leaders.

"Corruption is one of the most serious social and security challenges facing Nigeria today which is the more reason why Tinubu should see it as an existential matter that needs
to be addressed and tackled robustly and defeated once for all.

"No nation can aspire to greatness or seek to remain secure and safe when corruption and other corrupt practices are allowed to find their way into all its vital institutions including the agency saddled with the responsibility of fighting it. For this reason, corruption must be confronted with the entire will and resolve of the incoming administration."

Alleged Corruption: Commence immediate investigation against Bawa, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Northern Youths, tell Buhari

By Okwe Jude

THE apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council, including North Central Citizens Council, NCCC, have called on President Mohammedu Buhari to launch an investigation into the bribery allegations labeled against the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, before his administration winds up.

The call came on the heels of the recent claim by the Zamfara state governor, Bello Muhammad that the anti-graft Czar demanded $2 million bribe from him.

You would recall that the agency had invited the governor on allegations of N70 billion fraud, against which Muhammad told the EFCC to also investigate the Presidency officials on corruption-related cases.

In reaction, the EFCC confirmed that it is investigating the Zamfara state governor for alleged N70bn fraud.

You could recall recently a group, Centre For Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (Cacol) decried the incessant disobedience of court orders by the Abdulrasheed Bawa-led EFCC and seeming politicization of the agency's activities, highly detrimental to the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

Reacting to this development, the National President, ONYC, Okwu Nnabuike in a statement personally signed by him, Monday, a that the accusation by the Zamfara state governor, "opens limitless opportunities for corrupt bargaining and self-enrichment by the operatives of EFCC under Bawa’s watch.”

He, therefore, called for the sack of Mr. Bawa, adding that if President Buhari fails to investigate him, the incoming administration must convoke a panel to investigate against Bawa.

He said: “Based on the foregoing, it is time for Bawa to pack his luggages and step aside as the Chairman of the EFCC. We even expected that he should have resigned on his own volition judging by some weighty allegations against him,” the Youth Council stated.

"In the past couple of days, we in the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide have watched with dismay the drift currently going on at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. Needless to say that we are not so surprised owing to the fact that in the not so distant past, we had raised the alarm that the EFCC czar, Abdulrasheed Bawa, was merchandising the anti-graft commission.

"However, since he is obstinate about towing the path of honour, we advise President Muhammadu Buhari to do the needful by purging his government of all the ridicule brought upon his avowed anti-corruption stance by Bawa and the EFCC under him.

"We insist that all allegations must be thoroughly investigated by a technical Commission of Inquiry to dig into the modus operandi of EFCC investigations in the last three years by thoroughly analysing records of arrests, investigations, outcomes and final closure of each incident and individual suspects and how the matters were eventually dispensed with.

"But should Buhari fail to do so, the President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu should consider it as one of his very first assignments- to make Bawa step aside and face investigation. This is the only way Nigerians would rekindle their hope on the anti-graft commission," Ohanaeze said.

Corroborating, the coordinator, NCCC, Comrade Mohammed Eneji, also urged Buhari to restore the integrity of EFCC by investigating its current chairman.

He, therefore, called for the immediate suspension of Bawa, demanding that the federal government begin a thorough investigation into several allegations against him.

He pointed out that the investigation is imperative, particularly for the fact that the commission have suffered a lot of set backs as it relates to corruption on previous leadership of Magu, this also shouldn't be swept under the carpet.

Silverbird Cinemas premieres Fast X, advises Abuja residents on safety

By Ezra Ukanwa, Abuja.

Silverbird Cinemas begins premiering of the highly anticipated movie dubbed: "Fast X", which started on Friday, 16th May, 2033, to end on Friday, May 25th, 2023, at its Cinemas, in Abuja.

The movie, which delivered on the signature, energetic action sequences that fans have come to know and love, featured star-studded American actors and film producers like Vin Diesel, Jason Statham, Sung Kang, John Cena, among others.

The Fast X premiere began Friday, May 19, 2023, exclusively at Silverbird Cinemas and promises to run again with an unforgettable evening of entertainment and thrills, on Friday, 25 May, 2023.

Speaking with journalists on the eve of the movie premiere, the Assistant General Manager, Silverbird Cinemas, Isabella Okechukwu, said the event was packed to educate Nigerians, particularly Abuja residents on road safety measures.

She added that the event was aimed at brightening the lives of its customers at various touch points by delivering a distinct customer experience.

She said: "This is for the premiere of Fast and Furious, also known as fast X. And the idea is to promote the movie for publicity as well as networking. You know, this is the final sequel so it's only right that we do a premiere of this massive.

"You know the movie is about fast cars, it's about speed. It's been an action thriller that has had over 10 sequels. So, yes, it is also about advising young people. As you can see on the foyer, there are lots of fast cars and these are owned by young people living in Abuja. So, there is a need to understand that there is a need for safety even while owning these fast cars and fast bikes."

Co-partner, Sylvester Lori, said that, "We do this when a good movie comes out. So, we've done John Wick, we have done Fast and Furious, we have done Batman, we've done Wakanda so we are here today because it is Fast and Furious. It is about fast cars. It's about energy and speed. The idea is to network and to give people a movie experience."

Why Tinubu must increase education budgetary allocation by 20%—Stakeholders

By Ezra Ukanwa, Abuja.

Stakeholders and experts in Nigeria's education sector have called on the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to increase budgetary allocation of education by 20 per cent.

This, they said, would help achieve the Sustainable Development Goal 4—universal, inclusive and equitable basic education for all school-age children.

The stakeholders made this call during a conference to deliberate on education leadership and development, organized by Annual School Need Exhibition 2023, ASNE, on Thursday, in Abuja.

Addressing journalists during the event, the Founder & Group Chief Executive Officer, CEO, Wowbii Interactive, Sir Gbolahan Olayomi, saying that despite successive Nigerian governments’ claims to allocate more funds for education, the sector’s budgets have never met international standards.

He, however, highlighted various upheavals hampering the growth of the country, adding that the incoming government must channel huge funds in making technology an inseparable part of the education system in Nigeria.

"Funding is the most critical factor. There's just not enough money. There's also not enough deliberate intention to invest in education, a lot of lip service being paid to it, but not enough going into the sector. Secondly, there's a disconnection between where the world actually is where we are. Education is now technology led globally and you could see that happening after COVID. We couldn't go to school.

"So, there has been a big shift in education. Technology now leads the learning space, so that the investment to be able to drive that is critical. If for any country that wants to be a major player in world affairs going forward you must be leading in technology. Also, the percentage of our budget that should go into education needs to be urgently improved at say 20% going into education at least.

"Secondly, the trickle down effect tracing that fund to make sure that the money that goes in gives us outstanding return for every Naira outstanding return for every Naira spent in education, whether it's teacher training, whether it's curriculum development, whether it's infrastructure, the learning environment itself. When you go and you look at most of our public schools, would you want to send your child to a public school in Nigeria? These are the questions that they need to address urgently", he said.

On her part, the Managing Director, SKLD integrated services,Temilola Adeptun, reiterated the need for the incoming administration to invest in the girl-child, particularly on digital literacy.

Stating that the Northern part of Nigeria has the highest statistics of girls who are out of school, she called on the President elect to put policies in place to make girl child education compulsory.

She said: "They need to put policies in place to ensure that the girl child is allowed to go to school. I visited Rwanda recently and I was told that there is a law that prohibits parents from keeping children at home, whether male or female, and I think if those policies are in place, and they are enforced in the northern part of Nigeria and any other any in any other place, sometimes it's because of poverty."

Also, the founder, ASNE, said that the event was part of efforts to bring together key stakeholders, key decision makers, development agencies, school owners, the private and public sectors to chat a way forward in bettering the educational sector.

She equally urged the incoming administration to "engage people that actually have a stake. Let them work with the private sector and please be committed to education. They must understand the urgency."

Notable Yoruba Leaders To Deliberate Nat'l Unity, Restructuring at Summit


Yoruba Council Worldwide (Igbimo Apapo Yoruba Lagbaye), an apex umbrella body for all Yoruba indigenous people, has announced move to organize a regional Dialogue Post Election Summit.

In a statement signed by the Global President, YCW, who also doubles as Secretary General, Nigeria Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Council, Aare Oba Oladotun Hassan, Esq, stated that the Summit, tagged, 'Apero Oodua 2023', is slated for Wednesday 17th May, 2023 at the Civic Center, Ibadan, Oyo State by 10.00.a.m.

The statement revealed that the event will host leading Royal Fathers, Political Stakeholders and leaders of the various Yoruba indigenous Socio-cultural groups, with erudite leaders of thoughts led by the renowned Yoruba Leader, Evangelist Kunle Adesokan, Leader, Federation of Yoruba Culture and Consciousness and BoT Oodua People's Congress (OPC) Worldwide as the Key Note Speaker and Professor Mrs.

Others are: Adufule Oshitelu as Guest Speaker, Chief Host, His Excellency,Engr. Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State alongside all Southwestern States Governors and Political Stakeholders, the Royal Hosts are: His Royal Majesty, Oba Moshood Olalekan Ishola Balogun Alli, Olubadan of Ibadan land, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Khalid Olabisi Oyeniyi, Okere of Saki Land, His Royal Majesty, Oba Saliu Oyemonla Azeez, Agunloye IV, Sabigana of Iganna Land, His Royal Majesty, Abdrasheed Akanbi Teluwo 1, Oluwo of Iwo Land, And Guests are: Hon Wale Oshun, Comrade Victor Taiwo, Com Razak Olokooba, Com Makanjuola, Com Wale Adeoye, Com Razak Arogundade, Com Lawal Akeem, Aare Kunle Oshodi, Com Femi Lawson.

Chief Kolawole Aderoju of Awari Omo Oodua and Otunba Deji Osibogun, while other leaders of other organisations will be on standpoint at the Special Post Election Summit specifically aimed at conscientiously dissecting issues bordering on Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Incoming Presidency, State of the Nation & National Development, Constitutional Restructuring, Good Governance, Rule of Law and Separation of Powers, Security and balancing the political pendulums: A special dialogue focus on deepening democratic ethos, issues surrounding the APC zoning of National Assembly Officers and avoiding pitfalls, in line with the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu's led Renewed Hope 23' vision , masses expectations and promoting the Yoruba Agenda through robust synergy with your organization.

He, however, enjoined participants to seat by 9.30am, while appreciating collective roles towards attaining positive landmarks targeted towards the noble development of the entire Yoruba Land, and by extension Nigeria at large is highly recognized and appreciated.

[center]Defamation: Abimbola Joseph vows to take legal action against culprits


A Dubai-based Nigerian Realtor and former employee of Tigers Properties LLC Dubai, Abimbola Joseph, has come out to narrate how he has been unjustly accused of fraud and the sordid effects thereafter.

Joseph, while narrating his ordeal with our correspondent, expressed with shock and disbelief how recent publications by certain online media platforms presented him in bad light.

Recall that recently certain online media outlets had alleged that a Nigerian man had been fingered as being involved in multiple cases of land fraud in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

They also alleged that he was currently being prosecuted for obtaining money by fraudulent misrepresentation.

They alleged further that some of those defrauded who are also Nigerians have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

But, responding to this, Olupaiye debunked such information, saying he was not caught in any fraudulent activity, adding that the EFCC was never after him, or prosecuted him at any time.

Joseph, while calling for justice, described the allegations as "not only malicious but defamatory."

According to him, it is pertinent to note that I was never ever served by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), nor any other anti-graft agency, in Nigeria or anywhere in the world. The allegations published against me are not only baseless but also have no empirical evidence to back them up. These allegations were purported to cause significant damage to the good reputation I have built over the years.

He is therefore demanding an immediate retraction of these allegations and a public apology from Sahara Reporters, Instablog 9ja, Society Reporters, and all other blogs involved in the publication of the fake news.

Furthermore, he explained that the allegations have since had a negative toll on his image, however, demanding an immediate retraction of the allegations and a public apology from the said paddlers, within 48 hours or face legal actions.[/center]

Defamation: Abimbola Joseph vows to take legals action against culprits


A Dubai-based Nigerian Realtor and former employee of Tigers Properties LLC Dubai, Abimbola Joseph Olupaiye, has come out to narrate how he has been unjustly accused of fraud and the sordid effects thereafter.

Olupaiye, while narrating his ordeal with our correspondent, expressed with shock and disbelief how recent publications by certain online media platforms presented him in bad light.

Recall that recently certain online media outlets had alleged that a Nigerian man had been fingered as being involved in multiple cases of land fraud in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

They also alleged that he was currently being prosecuted for obtaining money by fraudulent misrepresentation.

They alleged further that some of those defrauded who are also Nigerians have petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

But, responding to this, Olupaiye debunked such information, saying he was not caught in any fraudulent activity, adding that the EFCC was never after him, or prosecuted him at any time.

Joseph, while calling for justice, described the allegations as "not only malicious but defamatory."

According to him, it is pertinent to note that I was never ever served by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), nor any other anti-graft agency, in Nigeria or anywhere in the world. The allegations published against me are not only baseless but also have no empirical evidence to back them up. These allegations were purported to cause significant damage to the good reputation I have built over the years.

He is therefore demanding an immediate retraction of these allegations and a public apology from Sahara Reporters, Instablog 9ja, Society Reporters, and all other blogs involved in the publication of the fake news.

Furthermore, he explained that the allegations have since had a negative toll on his image, however, demanding an immediate retraction of the allegations and a public apology from the said paddlers, within 48 hours or face legal actions.