Nigerian Gov't To Upscale School Feeding Programme In Ondo, Osun


By Blessing Bature-Akpakpan

The Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified efforts to ensure an accurate and comprehensive coverage of primary schools in Ondo State in its Home Grown Feeding program in public schools.

The Humanitarian Minister, Sadiya Umar-Farouq said in a statement issued by the SA Media, Nneka Ikem Anibeze that with the 108,842 primary school pupils already in its data base, the Federal Government through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development stressed the need for a continued capturing exercise.

In Osun State, the enumeration of 95,983 pupils across the primary schools under the school feeding program has also commenced.
Speaking through the Ondo State Team lead, Kemisola Olasetemi, the FG explained that the biometric capturing of the pupils would help in data management and efficient implementation.
Olasetemi confirmed that the exercise will be an ongoing process as she revealed that N1.8b has been spent in the last three years to cater to pupils in Ondo state under the NHGSF program.
“The process is ongoing. We will be coming back in September and October to capture new pupils that will come on board as well as exit some that are graduating. So, the program is going to be a continuous one.”
Osun State coordinator, Taiwo Bashorun, speaking during the verification process in Ifon/Ilobu (Orolu Local Government Area) disclosed that 1,460 schools  are currently enjoying the feeling programme by the FG.
With the new collaboration recently signed with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the ministry also partnered with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to distribute forms and capture the data.
The coordinators expressed satisfactions over the exercise which they said will motivate parents and guardians to  register their children in schools for quality education.

CYMS Inaugurates Imo state Chapter


By Otobong Gabriel



The committee of youth on Mobilization and Sensitization ( CYMS) has inaugurated the Imo state chapter of the organization in furtherance of it mandate of mobilizing the productive and creative youthful populations in the country and sensitize same for national development.



The Director General, CYMS comrade Obinna Nwaka said while inaugurating the chapter during the youth conference held in the state on the theme " the youths and the society" that the solution to the challenges of this country lies in the shoulders of the youth and we must not fail this country by not keying into government policies and programs, protecting and projecting government programs for the common benefit of the Nigerian society, we must be good ambassadors of our country wherever we are and whatever we do.



And called for sustained unity irrespective of ethnicity, religious beliefs and political affiliations, we are all one, whether you're PDP, APC, APGA and others, the era of politics has long elapsed, now is time for governance, let's support our government at various levels so that together we can grow as a country.



And appreciated the Imo state government for sending high ranking personalities to represent them at the occasion, this is a show of solidarity, we had the presence of the Representatives of Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Commissioner of Information & Strategy, SSA to Governor on Youth Affairs, DSS Boss, we are grateful for your supports, he said.

Also speaking, the CYMS's Director Social and Empowerment, King Tonto Dikeh who spoke on the effect of girl child and women empowerment in the context of national development, advocated for a more robust women empowerment and Engagement in democratic governance and policy making processes, saying women are the backbone of many Nigerian homes and sees no reason why their natural managerial ingenuity should not be integrated into various levels of governance.

She however charged the CYMS Imo State Chapter to integrate 40% of women into its Executives for smooth running of the organization.

In the same vein, one of the guest speakers, Amb Gabriel Onyema cautioned Nigerian youths to desist from all forms of immorality inimical to the growth and development of the country, saying most of the evils seen today in the society are directly or indirectly perpetuated by the youths, the youth should not allowed themselves to be used by the so called big men to perpetuate evil especially during election periods.


"It's the youth that hijack ballots boxes, disrupt electoral processes, payed to kidnap political opponents and engage in other killings, enough is enough if we must grow, we must change our attitude, he said"



The following persons were inaugurated into the Imo state Excos of CYMS:


Daniel Nnadozie Olegeme - state coordinator

Leonard Ibemere - Secretary

Maryjane Chinasa Unanka - Social and Empowerment Officer

Christian Ikenna Abamara - Media and Publicity

James Ekeocha - Financial Secretary

Alex Ihechi - Program and database officer

Benson Franklin - Oweri Zonal Coordinator

Theophilus Onwude - Orlu Zonal Coordinator

Chukwuemeka Ukaigwe - Okigwe Zonal Coordinator

Brace-up Street Entrepreneurship To Boost Economic Recovery- Jubril



By Blessing Bature-Akpakpan



Following the economic downturn occasioned by the outbreak of covid-19 global pandemic, the Director General and CEO of National Board for Technology Incubation, Dr. Engr. Mohammed Jubril has called on unemployed youths to take advantage of the various opportunities in the informal sector and create jobs for themselves and multiply earnings rather than waiting for white collar jobs.

He made the called during the official presentation of the book titled " Street Entrepreneurs" authored by Christ Nwogu, yesterday in Abuja.

Jubril said, the book, street entrepreneur has come at the best time when our country and indeed the whole world is working to overcome the crises of unemployment from the sudden disruptions of the global Covid-19 pandemic and vulnerabilities of small businesses, street entrepreneur is packaged with practical and real life tested solution and workable steps to help any business navigate the difficult terrain of running successful businesses in this challenging time.


In the same vein, the author, street entrepreneur, Christian Nwogu said his vast experience in business has enabled him to carefully articulate a practical guide to successfully grow small business, rebrand the street entrepreneur from their infamous status to attend a creditable exponential successes in their business from their paucity of limited funds, and encouraged people from all class to get it and read for their selves development.


"I believe that the book "street entrepreneur" will be an immeasurable assets to individuals as well as institutions in collaboration with government efforts in creating knowledge driven sustainable businesses thereby creating job opportunities for most of our graduates."

Also speaking, Edwin Ikouhria Africa Executive Director at One Africa Campaign, South Africa who spoke on the topic; Entrepreneurship and job creation in Nigeria, Africa and globally in post covid-19 era, said Africa had loss at least 30million jobs and went into recession for the first time in 25years and the only way forward is to stimulate the private sector to create job because government do not create jobs, 80 percent of the Nigerian economy is the informal sector (the street entrepreneur).

The informal sector has no identified structure and this level of informality really kills entrepreneurship because if you don't have an identity you can not access facility and other things needed to succeed in business. So if we must recover quickly, create jobs and multiply earnings, we must create an environment where the informal sector have an identity formidable enough to access facilities and others, he said.

CYMS Condemns Zamfara School Students Abduction


By Otobong Gabriel

The Committee of youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS) has condemned in totality the abduction of hundreds of female students in the Government Girl's Secondary School, Jangebe in Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State, by suspected bandits, in the early hours of Friday, 26th February, 2021.

In a statement issued by the Director Media, CYMS, Otobong Gabriel Akpakpan said the abduction happened barely few weeks after terrorists abducted students of Government Science College kagara in Niger State.

Akpakpan expressed worries over the frequent abduction of innocent school children in the country describing it as inhuman and traumatic and should be condemned at all levels and stands in solidarity with the parents and guardians of the children and prayed for the safety and immediate release of their wards.

And called on the security agencies to be on top of their game to secure safe release of this children and improve on the general security architecture of the country so that everyone can go on their businesses without fear.

CYMS 2nd Annual Meeting

CYMS had her 2nd Annual NEC Meeting on the 22nd February 2021, where we received the Olucee Brands team from Lagos led by the CEO, Lucy Ogechi Akaedu for a partnership discussion.
In Furtherance, the National Executive Council (NEC) approved the appointment of Miss Taiye Akintola as the CYMS Administrative Officer.

After successful deliberation followed a lunch timeout at the Indigo Restaurant, Maitama.

Those in attendance were:

Obinna Nwaka- Director General

Yerima Aminu Isa - Secretary General

Boluwaji Qudus - Director Logistics

King Tonto Dikeh -Director Social and Empowerment

Otobong Gabriel- Director Media

Ugwumba Kelechi - Director Contact and Mobilization

Abdullahi Abubakar - Director Special Duties

Taiye Akintola - Administrative Officer

2021 VESTRY ELECTION: Electoral Chairman, Hon Obinna Nwaka declared Mr Festus Nzekwe as the People's Warden




Mr Festus Onyebuchi Nzekwe has emerged unopposed as the 2021 People's Warden of the Christ Anglican Church Nyanya Abuja during its annual Vestry Election held at the Church auditorium on Sunday 21st February 2021.

The election which was conducted by the Electoral Chairman, Mr Obinna Nwaka with two selected youth drawn from Guild of steward as Electoral assistants.

Earlier before the election, activities such as birthday Thanksgiving of a serving civil servant's Deputy Director, Mrs Dorcas Arekhamhe and 17 years wedding anniversary of Mr & Mrs Ijebundun also the Count your blessings session activities outlined as part of programs to commemorate the 2021 Mothers Union celebration.

The usual service which was presided by the church Vicar, Ven Ogonna Obiefuna had two lessons which was taken accordingly by Mr Obinna Nwaka and Mr Isaiah from the Guild of Steward followed with the sunday sermon by Mr Uchenna Ewerem.

Before the election, presentation of Church annual report was presented by the Church Secretary, Mr Nonso Iwugo Jr, the Audit report was presented by Mr Ozoemenam while the 2021 budget proposal was presented by Mr Festus Onyebuchi Nzekwe.

All reports presented before the congregation were officially adopted and supported through motions though some observations were made by few members which was clarified.

Those on high table who observed the election were Evang Dr Festus Odia, LPA Ekeugbo Chukwudi, Ven Ogonna Obiefuna and Mr Nonso Iwugo Jr the Church Secretary.

The Electoral Chairman, Mr Obinna Nwaka charged the newly elected members of the Christ Anglican Church Nyanya PCC to utilize the medium as another rare opportunity to serve in the vineyard of God.

Other members newly elected into the 2021 Parochial Church Council (PCC) were Mr Ogbonna Offurum as Pastors warden, Mr Bright Chikwado, Mr Nelson Odia etc.

News gathered that, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) is the decision body of the church that comprises of the clergy, church wardens and his representatives to be saddled with the responsibilities for the financial affairs of the church and maintenance of its assets.

The PCC also assist the clergy in the management of the church and also promoting its mission.

APC REGISTRATION AND REVALIDATION: ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH - Chukwu



The All Progressives Congress, APC, Candidate of Awgu LGA Council Election in Enugu State Franklin Ezeugo Chukwu, has called on the good people of the State and particularly Awgu LGA to take advantage of the ongoing APC membership registration and revalidation exercise to join the mainstream political platform in Nigeria for the best political interest of Ndi Igbo and the socioeconomic development of our region.

The former State House of Assembly aspirants and Awgu LGA APC Candidate, Barr Ezeugo Chukwu made this known while addressing some Stakeholders in Lagos during a round table discussion on APC membership registration and revalidation programme organised by some concern Progressives Association discribed the ongoing exercise as another window and opportunity for our Youth and especially the region to take their political destiny in their hands.

According to Ezeugo "This exercise is a special opportunity and window for every Nigerian, particularly the youth and my people from Awgu LGA in Enugu State to fully integrate themselves into the mainstream political platform for the overall interest and development of our LGA and State."

In his opinion, Franklin Ezeugo Chukwu maintained that no one shaves a man's hair in his absence, insisting that the political future of the Sout East region was brighter with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and therefore called on the people to embrace this opportunity to get involved by joining other progressive Nigerians at the table of national politics.

Speaking on the infrastructural developmental strides of the APC Buhari led Government, he described the achievements in terms of quality project delivery of the Next level administration as unprecedented. "It is now obvious, that President Muhammadu Buhari has eclipsed the ranting of miserable opposition in the Nation with outstanding projects across the states especially in the South East region, It is clear to Ndi Igbo that unlike those before him, adding that it's time for the young people to take charge of the party and Support each other.

Speaking further, Franklin Ezeugo Chukwu described the APC under the leadership of His Excellency, Hon Mai Mala Buni in the National as a new brand of APC, very attractive, inclusive and accommodating while calling on Awgu LGA and Enugu State to come out en masse to register or revalidate their membership with the All Progressives Congress to position the state to attract more dividends of democracy from the federal government, as opposition politics has never improved the welfare of any group of people in political history.

The exercise according to the to young leader have already commenced in all polling political wards across the states of the Federation from Tuesday February 9 to end by March 16, 2021.

The Awgu born legal luminary, attributed the inability of his party to win his last LGA election as a result of poor membership strength, lack of sense of belonging and grassroots mobilization while being optimistic that the next election shall bring positive outcome for the progressives both in Awgu LGA and Enugu State as a whole.

EFCC Screening: CYMS writes National Assembly to confirm Bawa as EFCC Chairman




Following the nomination of Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa by President Muhammadu Buhari as the substantial Chairman of the Nigeria’s flagship anti-corruption agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Committee of Youths on Mobilization and Sensitization(CYMS) has written to the National Assembly on Wednesday 18th February 2021 to confirm Bawa as the EFCC Chairman to curb the current Corruption trend that has brought both National and International embarrassment to our nation and the economy.

In a letter sent to the National Assembly through the Office of the Senate President, Dr Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan signed by Comrade Obinna Nwaka, the CYMS's Director General which was later made available to newsmen in Abuja by its Director Media and Publicity, Otobong Gabriel, said the 40-year-old Abdulrasheed Bawa will bring vast Contributions to the fight against corruption in Nigeria having spent all his work life at EFCC, joined the organisation in 2004 is well equipped to bring the necessary change that we all desire for to build the image of the country.

Adding that any effort to truncate the confirmation of Mr Bawa as the substantive chairman will lead to massive protest by the Nigerian Youth, " his nomination is for the interest of meaningful Nigerians and overall interest of Nigeria youth and urged the National Assembly to disregard any protest and petition against Bawa from unpatriotic elements who do not want young people to contribute to national development.

Until his appointment, Abdulrasheed Bawa was a Deputy Chief Detective Superintendent with Nigeria’s flagship anti-corruption agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and if confirmed by the Nigerian Senate to lead the organisation will deploy his wealth of experience to bear in the war against corruption in Nigeria.

A statement by a presidential spokesperson on Tuesday announced that President Muhammadu Buhari has asked the Senate to confirm Mr Bawa, who currently heads the Lagos zonal office of the EFCC, as the substantive chairman of the commission.
Mr Bawa was in October 2015 appointed to head the commission’s investigations of Diezani Alison-Madueke, a former Minister of Petroleum Resources, and her associates, he continues to play the role till date.

If his nomination to be substantive chairman of the EFCC sails through, Mr Bawa, born 40 years ago, will be the youngest person to ever lead the organisation which has been without a substantive head since November 2015 and this will be a true reflection of youth inclusion in the President Buhari led administration.
The committee of youths on mobilization and Sensitization(CYMS) is a pro government organization with the core mandates of sensitizing Nigerian youths on Federal government policies and programs and how to key into same and benefit from them.

CYMS Calls For A Renewed Commitment To Actualize Its Organizational Goals For 2021



The Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization(CYMS) has called for a renewed commitments of all it's members across the country to ensure that the purpose and mandates of the organization is fully actualized to give the Nigerian Youths the necessary footings in the national polity and economic developments.



The Director General, CYMS, Comrade Obinna Nwaka made the call during the first Annual National Executive Council meeting of the organization on Monday 8th February 2021 in Abuja. While outlining the agenda for 2021, he commended on the efforts of some officials as been the reason behind the successes recorded by the organization in 2020 despite the covid-19 pandemic and charged others to wake up to their respective responsibilities for the interest of the organization.



Those in attendance were:

Obina Nwaka, Director General

Yerima Aminu Isa Ahmadu, Secretary General

Hon. Abdullahi Abubakar, Director Special Duties

Aisha Baiyee, Director Finance

Taiye Akintola, Admin Officer

Otobong Gabriel, Director Media

Kelechi Ugwumba, Director Contact and Mobilization

Boluwaji Qudus, Director Logistics

Chima Maurice, Director ICT

US based Organization Appoints Obinna Nwaka Its Nigerian Youths Representative


By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja

A United State based organization, African FoodBank and Disaster Relief has appointed the Director General of CYMS, Obinna Nwaka as its Nigerian Youth Representative.

In the appointment letter signed by Sir Andrew Okokhere, the Chief Executive Officer of the organization following the ratification of Mr Obinna Nwaka's position as the Nigerian Youth Rep by the Advisory Committee headed by Mr Leonard Chaikind on 27th October 2020 in Texas, USA. said the organization will be focusing more on youth empowerment and other social development in Nigeria in a view to reduce unemployment and restiveness among Nigerian Youth.

The US based organization while commending the Imo State born technocrats, Mr Obinna Nwaka currently serving as the Director General of Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS) assured the appointee of their support in discharge of his duties and also urged him to deploy his wealth of experience towards the actualization of the vision and mission of the organisation in developing countries like Nigeria.

According to the letter "The management is impressed with your wonderful experience, knowledge and Skills acquired over the years which made you the most suitable nominee for the position"

Mr Obinna Nwaka, the Nigerian Youth Representative (NYR) will be saddled with the responsibility of liaising and Coordination of the implementation of all the programs of the organization in Nigeria

CYMS Calls For Cabinet Reshuffling



Following the EnSARS protest that resulted in violence, leading to loss of lives and properties, the Director General, committee of youths on Mobilization and Sensitization ( CYMS), Obinna Nwaka has expressed displeasure over the inability of the ministers and other cabinet members of the Buhari- led administration to calm the heat in their respective constituencies and called for a reshuffling of cabinet.

I am highly disappointed to see how mute many of Mr President Appointees demonstrated this period.
In fact, Mr President should as matter of urgency sack 70% of his political appointees, they lack the capacity to uphold their given assignments.

He also urged Mr. President to reshuffle his Cabinets and sack 50% of his Ministers.
Meanwhile, Senators, House of Representatives, State House members and LGA Chairman who fails to engage his or her jurisdiction should not be given further support by the Youth & electorates, he added.

"It is unfortunate seeing unpatriotic elements and hoodlums targeting our States and National Assets in the name of protest. (Hidden palliatives excluded)
In one way or the other, we shall all pay for it.
The ENDSARS have really affected all and sundry.

Our problem is also our elected representatives as well. I commend Sen Ifeanyi Uba of Anambra, AMAC Chairman Hon Abdullahi Adamu Candido for directly engaging thier people this trying time."

Imo North Bye -election: Engr Promise Assures Of Victory, Promise Okigwe Zone A Better Representation.


As the Imo North Senatorial Bye - election draws nearer, Engr Promise Anurika Nwadigos the Young Progressives Party (YPP) candidate for the election scheduled for 31st October 2020 has vowed to bring dividend of democracy to his Senatorial district if given support and elected as the next Senator.

The 35 years old Ehime Mbano born entrepreneur made this statement during an interview with journalist in Abuja as regards to his preparation for the election.

The Imo North Senatorial aspirants told newsmen that he is optimistic of winning the election on the ground of his popularity, acceptance and internal peaceful coexistence of his political party, noting that other contending candidates or party lack credibility and ability to manage internal party arrangements.

The Senatorial hopeful also laid his political victory as a result his good character, experience, antecedents and massive support from the youth who dominate the highest voting strength in the Zone also the fact that Stakeholders and leaders from other political parties are with him to lead the good people of Imo North Senatorial district due to the political circumstances surrounding his two major opposition parties PDP and APC during thier primaries.

While reacting on political circumstances and his party ideology, the youngest aspirants intimated the public about the injustice metted against the party faithfuls and imposition of candidates into both APC & PDP parties by some selfish leaders which triggered the anger of their members to form coalition with other parties like YPP and by extension, his political experience as a former National Organising Secretary of Mass Action Joint Alliance (MAJA) party which has helped him gained more support across the party lines and his current position as the President, International Youth Parliament (IYP) Addis Ababa Ethiopia.

On the readiness of the electoral umpire, he insisted that INEC as the electoral body has assured the candidates and parties that the election will be credible, free and fair come Saturday 31st October, which is why he is confident of defeating his opponents based on his acceptability and political marketability, he said.

DISCLAIMER NOTICE

This notice is to inform the general public that Mr. Festus Uchenna of Nwangele LGA, Imo State, an FCT resident whose photograph appear above has long time ago cease and desist from representing the Committee of Youth On Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS) in any capacity whatsoever following a vote of no confidence on him and sacked by the National Executive Council.

Hence any person or organisation transacting with him or giving him any favour or attention in the name of CYMS does so at his/her own peril.

Signed:

Mr. Yerima Aminu Isa

Secretary General (CYMS)

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Rotary Club Advocates For Deaf School, Centres In Nigeria

Blessing Bature-Akpakpan

As a global network that strives to build a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change, the Rotary Club in Abuja has advocated for a school and centre for the deaf across every sector in Nigeria.

The Rotary Club of Abuja Gwarinpa, Mr James Ugbeda who represented Constance Okeke the club President said at the International week of the deaf and the international day of sign language that rotary club values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds; regardless of age, ethnicity, race, color, abilities, religion, socioeconomic status, culture, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

He said, "We collaborate with the community of the deaf under the platform of deaf resource centre and we are here to support, back up the deaf community because rotary is a humanitarian organization. We share our knowledge and experience with educators and other professionals, who work with vulnerable populations.

"Rotary clubs are working with the Global Partnership for Education and local and national governments to advance life-long learning opportunities for poor and marginalized children. In order to achieve this, we are presenting 50 school bags, hand sanitizers, facemasks and 200 exercise books," adding that, since school are not in session, they give to parents to deliver to their children.

"We want to channel their complaints through the National Assembly in a way that they will buy into it and put it in the school curriculum. It is not just for the deaf, but also to all the disabled in the country to know more about sign language. This will benefit us because anybody can become vulnerable tomorrow.

"The National Assembly need to mainstream school of the deaf across every sector in Nigeria but public and private."

Also Mr Richard Clement Asuquo the president Rotary Club Abuja Jabi said the goal of Rotary is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. We support education for all children and literacy for children and adults.

He stressed that rotary look at the way they can support the deaf community because we find out that even in early education, deaf children find it difficult to start their Nurstry school at age 2year to 4years and at the age of 8 they Will be taken from their family to boarden school so parent find it difficult to learn how to communicate with their deaf children.

He urged federal government and Private sector to add deaf language to the school curriculum and employ sign language interpreter to enable either student to learn how to communicate or in our offices if seeing any deaf person among them will be able to communicate effectively.

Mala Buni Endorses APC Newsonline, Calls For support


By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja


The Chairman of the National Caretaker Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Mai Mala Buni had endorsed APCnewsonline (www.APCnewsonline.ng), as a potent tool for information and promotion of the nation's ruling party.

Mala Buni, who is also the Governor of Yobe State and former National Secretary of the APC, also recommended the online news medium to government agencies and the party's various arms for patronage and support as it carries out its activities of projecting, not just the party but the activities of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration and other APC-led administrations across the country.

The APC caretaker Chairman gave the endorsement and recommendation in a letter dated September 2, 2020.

He wrote: "APC Newsonline is a credible medium for general information and news update on the party and APC-led government. They are dedicated to promote the activities of the government and party at all levels through prompt and effective information dissemination for the overall benefit of the party and government. The medium will consolidate efforts to put our party and government in proper perspective, particularly our progressive mantra.

"It is a compelling news medium and a valuable addition to the existing efforts of the officials handlers of the party and the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration. We are confident that their experience, particularly in the media industry, will be of great value to your office and activities."

The APC Newsonline is the brainchild of Dr. Tom Ohikere, a media expert and two term Commissioner of Information in Kogi State. He has been in the forefront of efforts at projecting the activities of President Buhari's administration and the ruling APC over the years.

He is also a founding father of the party in Kogi State, where he partnered with other leaders to make the party a household name.

APC NewsOnline is on a mission to promote and project the collective interests of the APC through media engagements, as it aims to find solutions to the media challenges of the party.

It also seeks to strengthen the relationships between the government, party leaders, stakeholders, and the general public through prompt and effective information dissemination for the overall benefit of the party.

CYMS partners with NEPC To Promote Made In Nigeria Products

By Otobong Gabriel

The National Executive Officers of the Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS) were formally received by the top management of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) in ttheir office headquarters Abuja where they discussed extensively on various areas of partnership to promote and ensure utilisation of made in Nigeria products and promotion of Next generation of exporters in Nigeria.

The idea behind the whole concept is to create wealth through Non Oil sector in a view to stop managing poverty in the country which is in line with the vision and mandate of NEPC. Also to encourage patronage of Nigerian product to grow the world.

The CYMS was really elated as it was enlightened on numerous opportunities for young people into entrepreneurship through a proper elucidation by Mr Olusegun Awolowo the Executive Director / CEO and other Directors of the agency.

The CYMS's Director General, Mr Obinna Nwaka after commeding them on their youth orientated program, charged them to emulate President Muhammadu Buhari's commitment to lift many young people out of poverty, increase their package for the youth and finally onbehalf of the organisation presented the official concept document as it also received from the NEPC's CEO, Mr Olusegun Awolowo which shows commitment and partnership.

Other delegation from CYMS were Yerima Aminu Isa the Secretary General, Tonto Dikeh, the Director, Socials & Empowerment, Mr Adeyemi Qudus, the Director, Logistics, Maurice Chima, ICT Director and Mr Otobong Gabriel, Director Media.

CYMS Felicitates With Senator Rochas Okorocha On His Birthday

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja

The Committee Of Youth On Mobilization and Sensitization ( CYMS) has congratulated Senator Anayo Rochas Okorocha as he markked another year of impacts to humanity.

In a statement released by the Director, Social and Empowerments of the organization, King Tonto Dikeh, she said Rochas Okorocha is a rare germ, a leader per excellence who had distinguished himself in life touching interventions such as free education to the less privileged and other social interventions.

" For being a philanthropist and human capital developer in Africa, we pray God to bless him bountifully while wishing him many more of happy returns".

BIRTHDAY FELICITATION TO A RARE GEM.



Happy birthday to a leader per excellence.

A philanthropist and human capital developer in Africa.

A giver of free education and father of many father less in Africa.

Happy birthday to former Governor of Imo State.
Happy birthday to Distinguish Senator Anayo Rochas Okorocha.

Yours in service
King Tonto Dikeh,
Director,
Socials & Empowerment.
Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS)

2020 Youth Day: CYMS calls for robust engagement in Democratic space.


By Otobong Akpakpan

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to celebrate the 2020 International Youth Day, Director General, committee of youths on mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS), Comrade Obinna Nwaka has called on the Nigerian youths to reflect on our common achievements in the advancement of democracy in the view to highlight the ways in which the engagement of young people at the local, national and global levels is enriching national and multilateral institutions and processes, as well as draw lessons on how their representation has impacted the society.

Speaking in a statement, Nwaka said that the theme of the International Youth Day 2020, “Youth Engagement for Global Action” is very crucial as it resonates a call to celebrate and mainstream young peoples’ voices, actions and initiatives, as well as their meaningful, universal and equitable engagement, saying that CYMS has been in the forefront of monitoring, evaluating and projection of government policies, programmes and mobilizing young people to key into the Federal Government schemes.

While commending President Muhammadu Buhari for his youth friendly leadership following the approval of N75b through Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), he solicits for a more enabling opportunities for the engagement of youths in formal political mechanisms to increase the fairness of political processes, reduce democratic deficits, contributes to better and more sustainable policies.

Nwaka said this year theme has symbolic importance that can further contribute to restore trust in public institutions, especially among youth. Moreover, the vast majority of challenges humanity currently faces, such as the COVID-19 outbreak and climate change require concerted global action and the meaningful engagement and participation of young people to be addressed effectively.

APC News Online: Sen. Smart Adeyemi To Chair Advisory Board



The APC News Online in a bit to structure the organization has appointed Sen. Smart Adeyemi, a third time Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria representing Kogi West and former President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists as Chairman, Advisory Board of the organization owing to his accumulated wealth of experience in the media industry.

Speaking in his office, the Founder and Publisher of the APC NewsOnline, Dr. Tom Ohikere who is also a two time former Commissioner of Information of Kogi state, said that the organization was birthed to consolidate on the gains of the already existing media arm of the All Progressive Congress APC.

According to him, the APC News Online is envisioned to promote and project the collective interests of the All Progressive Congress through media engagements, as it aims to find solutions to the media challenges of the party. The forum would strengthen the relationships between the government, party leaders, Stakeholders, and the general public through prompt and effective information dissemination for the overall benefit of the party.

Responding to the appointment, Adeyemi commended Ohikere for his dexterity in his coordination and contributions to the success of the ruling All Progressive Congress APC especially in the last Presidential and states elections which saw to the reelection of President Muhammadu Buhari, through his media engagements and affirmed his readiness to work with his team in whatever capacity to ensure that the interest of the party is projected and protected.

In his words, " I have always cherished Dr Ohikere's commitment in restoring and reawakening oneness in APC and also love his full and dogged dedication to the winnings and smooth growth of the party in the Federal, State and local tier." bringing forth a support media platform to strengthen the already existing media structure of the party is indeed a show of solidarity and patriotism that must be encouraged, and expressed optimism that the joint efforts of the team will be a boost for the All Progressive Congress and a voice for Nigerians at large.

Adeyemi however commended Mr President, leaders and members of the APC for all their contributions in making the party the best umbrella to which good governance and corruption free administration is experienced for the umpteenth time. Adding that the people's democratic party manhandled and misled the people of Nigeria and freed corrupt politicians to loot Nigerian resources and that is why APC has come to stay to salvage Nigeria from the shackles of corruption.

BYE-Elections: Senate bye-elections in Plateau, Imo etc, Arewa vows to protest with cows



The delay by the electoral body, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct the bye elections in Plateau, Imo and Cross Rivers States precisely has raised tension and triggered the anger of some politicians, groups and constituents.

The vacancy occurred following the death of the law makers in the Red Chamber of the National Assembly from the affected States which is long overdue.

This delay made it imperative for the Arewa Youth Progressive Forum (AYPF) agreed to join force with other interest groups like Justice Group (Ex Militants), Election Mandate group if INEC fails to conduct the said election before November 2020.

According to their letter signed by its Public Relation Officer PRO, Mallam Bashir Yunusa Dantudu addressed to the INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu on monday 3rd August 2020 said they feel the pain of the constituents, vows to carry their cows along on the protest and also charged the INEC to apologize to the States for their failure to have conducted the election which has deprived them from adequate representation at the Senate.

The AYPF also advised INEC to protect democracy, ensure prompt representation by conducting election promptly and no to give people impression that the Nigerian electoral umpire is biased.

The group made emphasis on the following three Senatorial districts Plateau South, Imo North and Cross Rivers North Senatorial districts respectfully.

Humanitarian and philanthropist, Tonto Dikeh took to her usual Instagram page to share picture of hers filling a membership form of a popular pro- government organization called Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS).

According to an undisclosed source, King Tonto Dikeh is now the Director, Socials & Empowerment of the organization (CYMS).

Corruption is the single greatest obstacle preventing Nigeria from achieving its enormous potential - Ohikere




As corruption continues to eat deep into the Nigerian ethos, a stakeholder of the ruling All Progressive Congress APC and the National Chairman of the APC Broom Platform, the foremost media crunchers of the APC, Dr. Tom Ohikere has described corruption as the greatest obstacle preventing Nigeria from achieving its enormous potentials.

He made this assertion at the APC Broom Platform, national secretariat, Abuja while responding to trending issues of corruption in the country.

Ohikere said that corruption in Nigeria is seen as the vestige of a colonial legacy that has become an acceptable norm in the society, its tentacles permeate from the highest echelons of government to the lowest level of the Civil Service, both national and local

"The APC led administration under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari came on-board like a born-again democrat, vowing to root out corruption, revive the economy and defeat the Islamist Boko Haram insurgency, and over the years significant progress has been recorded, although there still remain some bad eggs within his cabinet that are not living up to expectations regarding their respective offices.

And the victims of the corrupt practices are the Nigerian public who have been adversely affected by the deprivation which has resulted in underdevelopment and perpetual economic slavery. The countless numbers of corruption control measures adopted have failed essentially because of the protection of vested interests compounded with corruption in the judiciary, quangos and law enforcement agencies, the proceeds of crimes are handled by fences.

He however asked President Muhammadu Buhari as a matter of urgency to intervain and safe the country from the hands of these bad elements and reshuffle the cabinet, put likeminds who can complement his efforts in steming out corruption from the Nigerian society.

Adding that Buhari's personal reputation for incorruptibility endeared over 60% of Nigerians to vote him to office for the second term , with the hope that atleast Nigeria will be free from the deadly shackles of corruption which has crippled development for decades owing to his high moral rectitude and discipline. But as it is known, corruption war requires a corporate efforts and commitments, the efforts of the President still remains seemingly invisible because of the deviant behaviours of some people around him.

In Nigeria, abuse of power by officials has become a culture, from the legislators who refuse to pass a budget unless they receive a kickback or a police officer who will not allow a motorist to pass through a checkpoint unless bribed.

Oversight abuse by Legislators, financial auditors, procurement monitors, and anticorruption agents has on many occasions found demanding bribes in exchange for issuing approvals or turning a blind eye to misconduct. Unscrupulous senators and representatives especially those assigned to juicy committees that oversee high-budget ministries―routinely abuse their important oversight function, threatening to deny budget/appropriation approvals in exchange for kickbacks or contracts for their cronies thereby delaying or denying development.

Like the recent exposure of the NDDC lootings are evidence of corruption killing development in the region and the country at large, They didn’t only steal ‘NDDC money’, they stole the development of the region, they stole the future of a people. By their corruption, they stole education and made countless Niger Deltans illiterate, they stole healthcare and killed countless children, they stole money meant for generating employment and made millions jobless. They stole money for road construction and caused the death of Nigerians through accidents. NDDC has 12,000 abandoned projects in the Niger Delta, one project been awarded for over 55 times and other corrupt practices, according to the Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Godswill Akpabio.

Corruption is rife across the country’s economic sectors: petroleum, trade, industrial, agricultural, infrastructure, power sector, banking, and environmental. Together, these forms of corruption erase billions of dollars from Nigeria’s bottom line and prevent it from realizing its great human and economic potential.
Evident as the federal and state governments have spent billions on roads, railways, ports, electrical power, schools, hospitals, universities, and other economic enablers, but yet have realized few gains. By inflating contracts, soliciting kickbacks, and mismanaging budgets, venal officials have derailed countless such projects.

There is need for the President to have a second look at his cabinet, directors of agencies and parastatals and ensure that the right people are in the helm of the affairs of the country to win back the confidence of the public again. Otherwise if these lacklustre and deviants behaviours of some of the appointees of this administration continues, the political integrity of the APC is in serious danger and 2023 general elections is questionable for the party if the inherent anomalies are not addressed.

The APC led interim NWC should put up an internal mechanism to help the administration in this situation for the betterment of all.

The Taunting And Rascality Of Chris Ngige Over Corruption Hearing Is Unethical And Unexecutive - Ohikere


The Former Commissioner of Information of Kogi state and stakeholder of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), Dr. Tom Ohikere has expressed his disappointment over the acts of incivility displayed by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige during the corruption hearing at ad hoc committee of the House of Representatives trivializing an important hearing that involves corruption.

Earlier the Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige appeared before an ad hoc committee of the House of Representatives, over the sack of the management of Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).
It would be recalled that the House recently resolved to investigate the circumstances behind the sacking of the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Adebayo Somefun.
And during the debate on the motion, the Chairman of House Committee on Finance made some accusations against Ngige, hence the House resolved to summon the Minister.
The committee is chaired by Miriam Onouha.

Hon Abiodun James Faleke, who is the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Finance represents Ikeja, Lagos constituency in the House and is an ally of former Lagos Governor and APC chieftain, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

While interrogating the Minister during the House committee investigative hearing, Ngige made it clear to Faleke that he was becoming quite uncomfortable with some of his grilling and choice of words and began to taunt, turning the constitutional oversight function of the national assembly to a joke, instead of been focused on the subject matter, he shamelessly turned it to joke and a show of shame, its disappointing that some of the ministers surrounding President Muhammadu Buhari are not helping the President in the fight against corruption but instead they proud themselves in it trying every possible ways to ridicule the president's stride on the fight against corruption.

PMB does not deserve these kind of men in the federal executive council. Ngige appears unexecutive and more of a joker than a cabinet minister. If Mr. President needs to be taken serious by citizens, especially on his fight against corruption, he should rejig his cabinet to accommodate only leaders with high level of integrity, good characters and sense of responsibility.

Ngige whose 2003 Anambra governorship election victory was voided in 2005 and 2006 by the courts and his subsequent attempts to become Governor of Anambra in 2007 and 2010 ended in defeats as well. He can not be addressed as a former Governor because he was sacked by the court and Peter Obi was installed.

Even though Ngige he manage to win the 2011 Anambra Central senatorial election on the ACN platform, he was beaten by Hon. Mrs Uche Ekwunife in 2015 as he sought to make a return to the national assembly.

Chris Ngige has lost lots of his electoral battles and maybe that's why out of the magnanimity of Mr. President he was compensated with the ministerial offer and not that he deserved it, so shouldn't compare himself with Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the national leader of the ruling All Progressive Congress APC who had distinguished himself politically, socially and economically but should focus on vindicating himself of the corruption he is been accused of.

Tinubu did not just won all his elections creditably but also redefined leadership which is evidenced in Lagos city today. However, Leadership grooming has been found as the forte of great leaders and statesmen, hence Tinubu did not just stop there, but his prosperity of idea is his eye for excellence with which he recruits future leaders.

Ngige has failed to recognise how Tinubu has over the years blended a crop of new leaders who have turned out to become change-agents and drivers in both Lagos State, Nigeria and the world at large. He has allowed his charisma to infect many young people, thereby enhancing the fructification of his ideas in politics and the professions.

Ngige only mentored Okija Shrine, hence comparing himself with Asiwaju Tinubu is the height of hallucination. He thinks displaying rings round his ten fingers makes him an uncommon Leader?.

Ngige should check history well before he make utterances, Tinubu emerged the only surviving governor from the platform of Alliance of Democracy (AD), which produced the entire governors of the Southwest geopolitical zone and the expertise he displayed in raising the state’s internally generated revenue to withstand the induced fiscal straightjacket imposed on the state government as punishment for creating an additional 37 Local Government Council Development Centres stands him out from any match.

Strengthened by that epic political battle, Asiwaju earned his stripes as the Jagaban Borgu and went ahead to do exploits, winning one strategic engagement after another. Through his foresight, three states in the Southwest were recovered into the progressive fold, including Ekiti, Ondo and Osun. What antecedent does Ngige has to compare himself with Asiwaju.

Tinubu is a phenomenon in Nigerian politics and remains the tallest person politically today in the South West but Chris Ngige is just but a political misfit who only enjoys the ministerial opportunity with impunity without bringing any positive change to table ever since he assumed office as the minister of labour and Employment and should be replaced with a better option.

King Tonto Dikeh Empathise With Childless Women, Sets To Assist With IVF


As the issues of barrenness troubles most married women in Nigeria especially those that have given up as a result of their age and other health complications, King Tonto Dikeh is set to sponsor atleast three women to have their babies through IVF.

This Nollywood star who is also known for her humanitarian gesture became emotional about the situation faced by such couples having understands the joy of motherhood said this yesterday in a press briefing, adding that she has taken upon herself to ensure that atleast three (3) women feel the joy of a womanhood for a start.

In this regard, the Humanitarian has met and agreed with Dr Ibrahim Wada the Chairman of NISA Hospital, Abuja for the commencement.
According to her, Dr Wada is a specialist in Vitro Ferterlisation (IVF) and also a founder of a leading NGO in Nigeria focusing on medical area called Institute of Medical Sciences Africa (IMSA)

She said that the gesture was to assist those who can not afford to pay for IVF (the less privilege) have their own babies through IVF.

DG, CYMS's Birthday: King Tonto Dikeh, Ohaneze, Arewa, Oodua others showers encomium on Youth leader.



As the famous Nigerian youth leader disclosed his birthday early hours of 30th June, 2020.

Stakeholders, friends, associates and youth leaders took to their social media to express their love on Mr Obinna Nwaka, Director General of an evaluation, monitoring and Sensitization platform in Nigeria, Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS).

Recently the organization has made several impacts in National development and other important issues relating to the advancement of young people which led to the official acknowledgement and commendation from Mr Boss Mustapaha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

In the spirit of celebrating Mr Obinna Nwaka an Imo born youth leader from Isiala Mbano LGA.

Popular Nollywood actress and humanitarian, King Tonto Dikeh felicitated with the celebrant and wished him well in all his endeavors.

The PRO of Arewa Youth Progreasive Forum, Mallam Bashir Yunusa described him as a thorough detribalized leader, brother and mentor from the South East extraction given the fact that the celebrant does not only enjoys working in the Northern part of the country but has also maintained a very good profiled relationship with the Northerners to the best of his knowledge.

While Rt Hon Abdulmajeed Oyeniyi the Speaker, Oodua Youth Parliament (OYP) contributed that the celebrant is a promising youth leader with focus and passion for Nigerian projects with full knowledge on economic policies of the present adminstration.

The apex socio cultural organization of the Igbo extraction, Ohaneze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide, according to Mazi Obinna Achionye the Vice President opined that they are proud to have a young igbo man representing well in the National activities and also assisting the present adminstration with his team.

A team player, bridge builder and one of the assets to bank on from the Igbo land.

In addition, the President of Progressive Students Movement (PSM) with headquarters in South Africa, Mr Bestman Okereafor described him as a great mobilizer, sensitizer and technocrat with admiring principles.

However, the NAN gathered that the celebrant took to his social media to express gratitude to God, described himself as a perfect creature of God and finally announced his recent position as a Focal Person following the CYMS's official partnership with the United Nations (UN)

ATABA SANI-OMOLORI IS A PRIDE TO EBIRA LAND- OHIKERE



Following the recent political tussle in the National Assembly which started with the controversial retirement age, a calculated plan by some power hungered gang to dislodge Sani-Omolori as the Clerk of the National Assembly despite the resolution of the 8th Assembly.

A two time commissioner of Information of Kogi and a proud son of the Ebira land, Dr. Tom Ohikere said prince Sani-Omolori deserves to be celebrated in Ebira land having represented the land well in the commission which can be attested to by his dexterity in up-scaling the facilities and technological proficiency of the bureaucracy and workforce in general as the clerk of the National Assembly.

According to Ohikere, Sani-Omolori's career in the National Assembly has been challenging, he was tasked with establishing and nurturing the Legal Department from its inception to its present status. He became the Acting Director, Legal Services Department in 2002, a position he held until 2006. In 2007, he was promoted to the substantive rank of Director and worked in that capacity until 4th February, 2010 when he became the Clerk, House of Representatives in the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a position he occupied till 16th May, 2016 when he became the Clerk to the National Assembly.

"I am morally informed, committed and dedicated to the Ebira project, I will continue to defend any genuine stakeholder in Ebiraland like the Ciroma who has distinguished himself in his profession as a consummate lawyer and his sterling leadership prowess as the clerk of the National Assembly".


Going through his work and professional experiences, one cannot but acknowledge the propensity of Sani-Omolori towards making National Assembly a hub of democratic institution across Africa. Under his watch, definite landmark transformation has taken place, ranging from massive renovation of the buildings, improved security, parking lots, among others. He also introduced the click-in tech for across the institution with a workforce of over 5,000 legislative workforce within the system. Never can one forget to mention the introduction of Open Week which gave ample opportunities to Nigerians, CSOs, CBOs to interface with the members and management of National Assembly.


The clerk is one and must be protected, he means many things to many people, while some simply know him as the Clerk to the National Assembly of Nigeria, several others define him by his epic qualification as consummate lawyer, an accomplished technocrat, a great philanthropist and a servant leader.

It is no longer news that what befell Sani-Omolori is a blatant display of power by the leadership of the National Assembly, the Chairman of the National Assembly Commission who is also an ally of the Senate President is from Yobe state and they have succeeded in outturning the National Assembly Commission for their personal interest.


To the Ebira people, Sani-Omolori has been a great philanthropist, his records on employment generation is unprecedented and can only be compared to late Sen. A. T Ahmed, despite being a civil servant he has touched many souls, distributed grinding machines, sewing machines, keke na pep and many other empowerments to the less privileged in the land. I can not overemphasized his personal touch to people that ever come in contact with him but it saddens my heart that his own people who supposed to stand by him on this unjust politics by some cabal in the National Assembly to remove him despite the 8th Assembly resolution to satisfy their personal gains are the ones rejoicing over it.


Personally I dont know his office or residential location both at home and in Abuja nor have I had any benefits from him but investigation and evidential records at my disposal about him shows that he has a monumental record of commitment to the Community.


So in fairness to God and man, men of conscience and integrity should rise to project him for record purposes and posterity, and based on his record in Ebiraland, a lot of leaders and youths have benefited from him.


The question must be asked, how many Anebiras of his size, and status has done so much for our people? Or of what gain is his removal to the Ebira land.

Ataba Sani-Omolori within the limited and constrained resources, has done his best as a man of vision that is committed to a mission, lets support him.

HOW CORRUPT LEADERS/NIGERIANS DEVICE MEANS TO UNDERMINE AND WEAKEN ANTI CORRUPTION WAR :CAACASVI


A civil society organisation, Citizens Awareness Against Corruption and Social Vices Initiative (CAACASVI) has berated Nigerians criticizing Abubakar Malami (SAN),, the attorney general of the federation on his recent actions against Ibrahim Magu, suspended acting chairman of EFCC .


In a media briefing in Abuja, the Executive Director of the organization, Comrade Olumuyiwa Onlede said it is obvious that the media attack on the Attorney general of the federation (Abubakar Malami SAN) by some Nigerians and some media houses notably Sahara Reporter is a clear indication that corruption is fighting back, just as we have always experienced over the years since the war against corruption assumed momentum in 2015 when President Muhammadu Buhari came on board.

It has become a consistent attitude by the beneficiaries of corrupt practices to forge a reprisal attacks on anti-Corruption agencies whenever their devilish activities are being checkmate or efforts are been made to bring to book those that are culpable on issues that relate to financial crime and misconduct by those privileged to be in position of power.


Comrade Olumuyiwa Onlede singled out Sahara reporter and her publisher and wonder why they are so critical about the attorney general at a period like this when ordinarily what the attorney general is supposed to be receiving from media and civil society groups should be encouragement and support. Lately the attorney general has taken difficult decisions that will save Nigeria billions of naira and also go to prove the sincerity and seriousness of anti corruption war as being spearheaded by President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) that appointed the attorney general as the chief law officer of Nigeria.


We believe the attorney general deserves commendation rather than calculated media attack from people whose youthful strength and God's given intellectual capability is geared towards primitive acquisition of wealth not minding what their corrupt actions will spell for the Nigerian nation. "It is shameful that leaders from different sphere of life who are suppose to be a source of caution to these youths are the ones encouraging them and glorifying these devilish enterprise."

One will have thought that Nigerians as religious as we claim to be, that anti corruption war will readily and simply receive support from Nigerians especially leaders from every sphere of life, like religious leaders, traditional leaders, youth leaders and even tribal leaders who are suppose to be a source of inspiration and a loud and viable voice against corruption seems to be carried away by the things of the world instead of working with anti corruption players to fight the monster called corruption in order to make Nigeria great for the betterment of all of us and not for the betterment of the few.


There is no doubt that Nigeria problem is simply and squarely that of corruption, leaders whose greatest claim to fame was that they exploited their people and destroyed their states and country doted the Nigerian leadership space.
But God who gives power in his mercy has bestowed it on President Muhammadu Buhari who is championing the war against corruption, because we all know that the Nigeria can be great owing to her rich natural resources but the reverse is the case and we all know that the survival of our dear country Nigeria rely on the present anti corruption war.


Corruption has bedevilled all sectors of the Nigerian economy today that we don’t have stable electricity, is as a result of corruption, that we don’t have good hospitals with modern equipment, it is because of corruption, that we don’t have good schools, good road and infrastructure is because monies meant for these purposes found their way into private pocket of few individuals to the detriment of the Nigerians.


But all these can change if the present anti corruption war receive the necessary support from Nigerians. "We at the Citizens Awareness Against Corruption and Social Vices Initiative through this press briefing is making a categorical statement and making our stand known to enemies of our dear country Nigeria who are in the business of dolling out false information to Nigerians about the attorney general of the federation , false information about properties that only exists only on the pages of newspapers and not physically being ascribed to his name in a bid to weaken his spirit of doggedness in the fight against corruption to sanitise Nigeria and make it immune to corrupt practises at least to some certain extent.


We want to make it known to all Nigerians that we are in total support of the attorney general's actions especially those that are geared towards the betterment of this country.
We want to also use this medium to implore the attorney general of the federation not to be deterred in his effort even if corruption is fighting back by any possible way and that CAACASVI and all our sister organisations will stop at nothing to fight his right cause in the anti corruption war.
We also want to advice the attorney general of the federation to continue with the good work as this is the opportunity for him to write his name in gold just like the category of Nigeria leaders in the pre colonial era and early 60’s

RE:ALLEGATION OF CORRUPTION AGAINST THE MANAGEMENT OF NIGCOMSAT- BY ONLEDE

The Nigerian Communication Satellite Commission (NIGCOMSAT), no doubt, is a strategic organisation in the cause of realising the technological and scientific aspiration of Nigeria.

However, after rigorous and extensive private investigation both official and anonymous in nature as the situation warrants, it is pertinent at this point to note that even at present, there is no mandate to speak for NIGCOMSAT and the accused employees.

But as a coalition of civil society organisation working for transparency and accountability in the scheme of doing things it becomes pertinent that we make our findings known to the citizens of our dear country Nigeria.

We are also bound to do so for critical stakeholders in order to set the record straight for those following trends in this organisation with key interest or even waiting for the outcome of the petition against NIGCOMSAT.
Our reason is anchored on the fact that, the suspicions are so great in Nigeria on the situation of things in this vital organisation, yet challenged by some allegations on some undesirable development here.

Having said that, we would like to give profound gratitude to all those that made the investigation and findings possible, both in official and unofficial capacity and this is both in the agency in question and other government and private agencies in the real estate.
We must commend them for taking time to search and divulge important information to us about the components of this petition.

Our findings: NIGCOMSAT is a government agency that basically operates at 60 per cent commercial and deal basically with broadband. In other words, it is an agency that may not be necessarily involved in huge capital expenditure up to the extent that the sum of N8 billion contract scam can easily be perpetuated as alleged by the petitioner. In reference to 2020 Appropriation Bill signed to law by the president and also previous budget of the agency, we were able to deduce the fact that, the total allocation of NIGCOMSAT is always less than N4 billion, including overhead cost.

We also know, through finding that its financial orientation is based on Treasury Single Account (TSA). Giving this picture therefore, it becomes less possible for leakages in the finances of the agency, even as we now see in so many other agencies of government.
We, however,note with dismay that the opposition to the government of the day at the centre continues to use the word ‘cabal’ to disparade the government.

They also make people to believe that there are some people presumed to be close to the president and by so doing, having influence on the president and whatever they do whether good or bad it will go unchecked.
These assertions are without prove and substance and again the opposition has transferred the word ‘cabal’ to other formations of government apparently referrimg to employees who are diligent in the discharge of their legitimate duties assigned to them and not necessarily being entitled to any special remuneration.

It is good to note that any leader who desires to succeed must build his team around dedicated, honest and competent employees who are ready to give their best at all times.
This is due to the fact that, leaders cannot be everywhere at the same time. This reality is is what is playing out in NIGCOMSAT where names like Idris Garba, Adamu Idris, Alma Udoyen, Kingsley Udevbue and Rakiya Sulaiman appeared to the petitioner as ‘cabals’.

We discovered that the names mentioned above were tagged ‘cabals’ just for the fact that they have deployed exceptional character and energy in their various duties in the agency and also make themselves available, even at unofficial hours.
These highly dedicated staff have made their services to the agency to the detriment of their comfort because of their aviwed determination to be part of success story that the CEO to, Dr Abimbola Alale intends during his tenure in the agency.

It has been confirmed by authorities in personnel management that good leadership strategy must be built as a team around dedicated employees to the desired success as the head of any organisation. This we believe what Dr Abimbola Alale has done.
Also according to our findings NIGCOMSAT, has since complied with federal government directive on IPPIS and salary being the major financial obligation of the agency, it takes up to 80 per cente of the allocation.

In the same vein, capital vote is always less than N1billion for every fiscal year (page 449) of 2020 Appropriation Bill shows that. It is likely impossible for the agency not to be able to meet its financial obligation as stated by the petitioner.
It is also not far from the truth if we assert that Dr Abimbola Alale was appointed as the CEO of NIGCOMSAT in 2015 due to her exemplary service in the agency.

We however make bold to say that before her appointment as the CEO of NIGCOMSAT, she wouldn’t have had the power to highjack insurance business of NIGCOMSAT having not served as the head of legal services of the agency.
Available records confirmed that the then head of legal services was privy to all the insurance agreements between the agency and FASAHA intercontinental Insurance Brokers Limited.
Findings also revealed that a female staff in the legal department spearheaded the signing of the said agreement which was devoid of any anomaly but the woman in question was not Dr Abimbola Alale.

Having been privileged as the National coordinator of Conference of Civil Society for Transparency and Accountability in different fora with sister CSOs in anti –corruption advocacy, the issue of Abuja CCTV project initiated during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan is one that has left a scar in the heart of all well meaning Nigerians.
Severally, the issue has come up and on no occasion has the name of NIGCOMSAT appear as a partner in the said project or as an accomplice in the failed CCTV project. Rather, NIGCOMSAT was brought in after the contract had been awarded to ZTE and the role played by the agency at this stage was supervisory and in form of consultancy.

This is due to the fact that the agency mandate is in correlation with the said project and of course, Through the the project failed, NIGCOMSAT was made to bear the burden of the investment made in terms of recruitment of engineers that were suppose to mainly work on the project to ensure its success.
Of course,finding also shows that the recruitment increased the agency’s overhead, as those recruited had to be retained by the agency.

As coalition of civil society, we equally make bold to say that,the issue of NIGUS International Investment Limited arouses our curiosity about this petition due to the fact that NIGUS and her management are well known to us even outside government business.
By this unique relationship, we have the privilege of getting all necessary information needed for the purpose of this investigation.
In as much as we will not like to delve into employees’ private life, we would like to state categorically that, Mr Adamu Idris or his father inlaw have nothing to do with NIGUS International Investment Limited. This is because the company does not belong to anybody related to his wife’s and they do not share the same ethnic affiliation with the visioner of NIGUS investment whom as we have said is well known to us outside government business.

Also the claim that DTH belonging to NIGCOMSAT has now been signed off to NIGUS is far from the truth. According to our findings,we were able to ascertain that those willing to use the facility for their TV transmission will be granted the licence as long as they are able to fulfil the requirement, both financial and or otherwise.
We also discovered that in the bid to strengthen the financial capacity of NIGCOMSAT, the management reached an agreement with the cooperative of the agency, where the sum of N100 million was borrowed from the cooperative earnings to execute a project of direct data capture of members of a ruling political party before 2015 general elections.

In this regard,funds and employees were deployed but unfortunately as we all know, there was change of power at the centre and this made the party to not to be able to meet its financial obligations to NIGCOMSAT.
Our finding equally revealed that that all employees of the agency were privy to the said contractual agreement between NIGCOMSAT and the political party.
Our belief is that, even with the unpleasant outcome, there was no moral justification for the cooperative to engage the management in any form of industrial dispute.

Also the allegation of asset and ownership of real estate has become the easiest asset to trace during investigation and this is possible due to the effective system that is in place in AEGIS and management system of many private estates in FCT.
This gave us the information that so many long serving employees of NIGCOMSAT had the opportunity of keying into a housing scheme of the agency.

This opportunity made them property owners in Sunny Vale estate and they were able to key into the scheme through loan facility easily verifiable through account details as we know that anti-graft agencies have done in the past.
Finding also shows that some other properties traced to some above mentioned employees are products of inheritance and some by virtue of marriage.

In conclusion, we align with the submission of Comrade Haruna Abdulsalam Okatahi, the Director of Communication and Strategy of the CCSTA that in as much as it is within the power of any individual or groups to write petitions whenever they feel like, such should be done properly, especially in any government establishment.
We must also note the fact that our anti-graft agencies (EFCC, ICPC,NFIU) and many others invest alot of resources in the process of investigation into alleged corruption, just as we have done rigorously in the past weeks before coming up with this piece.

But when petitions are vindictive and not the true state of things, government will be wasting alot of resources without positive result either in the way of asset recovery or punishment.
We also want to plead with the media, individuals and groups to engage in thorough investigation to know facts before writing to anti-graft agencies and before disseminating such information to the public domain.

We want to also use this medium to plead with those in position of authority to work in tandem with the anti-corruption mantra of President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) and his government.
Also we implore all those whose names may have been mentioned in the petition and most especially the CEO of NIGCOMSAT, to see the whole saga as part of sacrifice they have to make in service to humanity and their father land,Nigeria. They should not to despair in giving their best to the organisation.

Rather, this development is suppose to encourage them to do more in honesty and integrity, because whether we like it or not, men who do good will always have no shortage of enemies.

The president must also recognise those at the helm in government agencies who are serving with integrity and working along the path of the president’s anti-corruption agenda.
Conference of Civil Society for Transparency and Accountability believes that it is because of corruption that in Nigeria, we don’t have stable electricity.

It is because of the cancerous phenomenon that we don’t have portable water to drink, we cannot feed our self as a nation because of corruption, we don’t have hospitals and good schools because of corruption and it goes on and on.

So as individuals, if we decide to do what is right for our nation, our country Nigeria will definitely attain her potentialities.
Comrade Olumjuyiwa Onlede, National Coordinator, Conference of Civil Society for Transparency and Accountability.