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PoliticsFG Will Represent States, Lgas In New NNPC Company: Sylva by Mecka(op): 8:29am On Aug 20, 2021
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, says the federal government will hold an equity stake in trust for states and local government areas in the proposed NNPC Ltd. in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Mr Sylva said this in a press briefing on Thursday.

“Just like in the Nigeria Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG), the federal government will hold the equity in NNPC Ltd. in trust for the three tiers of government. You must agree that in this country, there is a federal government of Nigeria, and there is a federation,” said the minister. “The federal government of Nigeria can always hold something in trust for the federation. I can assure you that we are already discussing and we are clarifying some of these issues.”

Mr Sylva explained that the government was in talks with governors and that there was no need for any controversy on the issue.

On gender balance in the PIA steering committee, he said the federal government made selections based on offices.

“Let us not flog this situation because when you say you are nominating, it is offices that are represented. I represent the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and then the permanent secretary of the ministry,” he explained. “There is no way
because of gender equality I am going to look for somebody else to be here apart from the permanent secretary. When I say the executive secretary Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) is the secretariat, there is no way I can go and change the ES PTDF.”

On the three per cent host community fund, he argued that those agitating against it were politicians.

“Frankly, I don’t know why there would be unrest in the Niger Delta. I know that there are a lot of politicians who have taken this as a political issue, and they are politicising it,” added Mr Sylva. “But I have not heard the leaders of the Niger Delta that I respect kick against this.”

He further assured that the government would have no role in managing the fund as the operating companies and the communities would oversee it.

https://gazettengr.com/fg-will-represent-states-lgas-in-new-nnpc-company-sylva/
PoliticsStakeholders In Iron And Steel Industries Appeal To FG To Indigenize Sector by Mecka(op): 6:06pm On Aug 19, 2021
In order to enjoy full benefits of Iron and Steel industrialization in Nigeria, the indigenous stakeholders in the sector have appealed to the federal government to indigenize iron and steel industries whereby government holds only marginal interest and the indigenous investors get major interests.

Chairman, Basic Metal, Fabricated Iron and Steel Products, Dr. Kamoru Yusuf, made the appeal during a meeting of stakeholders in iron and steel sector in Ilorin on Thursday.

The meeting, organized to deliberate on status of the industry and propose strategies for the development of the sector, was attended by relevant government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) as well as local and foreign chief executives of iron and steel
companies.

Dr Kamoru, also Chairman Chief Executive of KAMWIRE based in Ilorin, said that future of iron and steel business in Nigeria will be heavily dictated by the policy thrust of the government which, must be tailored towards rendering necessary support and ease of doing business to investors in the sector.

He also said that it is the position of the general public that Ajaokuta steel plant should work again in the hands of local investors, adding that, Nigeria need to pride herself as the giant of Africa by making judicious use of her highly talented, patriotic and committed indigenous investors with adequate recognition of the stakes of the government.

He said,”Without mincing words, the assets should not be handed over to foreign investor(s), rather, it should be managed 100 per cent by a competent indigenous investor who had demonstrated capability with evidence of success stories on existing steel plants and wire processing factories. With this, government can and may own 40%, while the investor will own 60%.

This will no doubt, enhance easy, sustainable, and rewarding business fortunes for the nation. Every phase and processes of the investment must be given cognizance attention and priority”
Dr. Yusuf also exhuded confidence that with the development,the capital and proceeds would remain here in Nigeria and would be re-invested into our economy, if indigenous steel investors are given the chance to resuscitate Ajaokuta.

He said that FG should take a cue from her counterparts in developed nations by allowing Credit Insurance Underwriters to operate in Nigeria, adding that investment in the iron and steel business is capital-intensive with huge risks.

He said,”We believe that with policy shift, some benefits will accrue; This would complement the Backward-Integration
Policy of the Government, which seeks to preserve our scarce foreign exchange and create employment for millions of Nigerians directly and indirectly.

He stressed,”There will be more liquidity in the Nigerian economy and Nigeria would have the opportunity of competing with her peers in the continent and across the globe.

“It will minimise brain drain to foreign countries in the name of search for greener pasture, especially among our
teeming youths.

“Nigeria would be able to participate successfully in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and compete favourably among countries in the continent.

Ajaokuta will come with good opportunity of reinvigorating the automobile sector of the economy after a successful installation and commissioning of ultramodern machineries.”

Also speaking, the Director, Industrial Development Department, Federal ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment,Mr Adewale Bakare, said that the stakeholders’ meeting was necessitated by the ongoing efforts of the ministry at repositioning the iron and steel sector through development of workable policies and strategies for the growth and development of the sector.

“Our developmental history shows that Nigeria started its nation’s building with a strong iron and steel sector including the establishment of the Ajaokuta steel complex which was a beacon of hope in the early days. However, present realities shows that the iron and steel industry has not achieved the desired development as the various sub-sectors under the iron and steel industry have remained at the levels of infancy or non-existent, living the country to depend largely on importation of iron and steel products”, he said.


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/stakeholders-in-iron-and-steel-industries-appeal-to-fg-to-indigenize-sector/
TravelRe: 'Idiot' British Student Who Took Holiday To Afghanistan Because It Was Dangerous by Mecka: 10:00am On Aug 18, 2021
YoungBlackRico:
Hollywood go carry this one do film now. "Left Behind"
Trapped in Kabul
CrimeRe: Nigerian Man Forced His Kenyan Girlfriend To Perform MouthAction On Him by Mecka: 10:57pm On Aug 17, 2021
CharisEleos:
Let him be dealt with. Even my husband can't try this rubbish with me.

By the way, wetin the girl find go there in the first place?
You dey your mama house he com force you?
but if he ask nicely, will you give him head
CrimeRe: Nigerian Man Forced His Kenyan Girlfriend To Perform MouthAction On Him by Mecka: 10:47pm On Aug 17, 2021
saphiere:
what has this gender not done to women?
Any woman who is against feminism needs her brain checked.
Any woman who professes the future is female all the time needs her brain checked
PoliticsOne Killed As Bandits Engage Nigerien Soldiers In Gun Duel by Mecka(op): 5:06pm On Aug 17, 2021
Armed bandits and Nigerien soldiers are currently fighting along the border community of Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.

The gunmen reportedly killed a soldier, injured many others and seized a gun truck belonging to the foreign soldiers in the ongoing gun duel that started on Monday, multiple sources told PREMIUM TIMES.

Mustapha Yusuf, the lawmaker representing Jibia at the State House of Assembly, told this newspaper that gunmen from Nigeria attacked a community in Niger Republic and rustled many livestock into Nigerian territory.

“The soldiers from Niger Republic are in Nigerian territory on a rescue mission following bandits’ attack at one of the adjoining communities in Niger Republic.

They are allowed to enter for 30 kilometres based on security arrangements,” the lawmaker said.

Mr Yusuf said one of the foreign soldiers was killed and another injured following an ambush by the bandits in the Jibia area while a gun truck belonging to the foreign soldiers was seized by the bandits.

He added that many of the foreign soldiers and a popular vigilante leader have been missing since Monday.

Also, locals said about 17 vehicles from Niger Republic loaded with soldiers were seen in the Jibia area heading towards a forest. Subsequently, a heavy sound of explosion was heard from the soldiers believed to be engaging the bandits in the forest.

The police spokesperson in Katsina, Gambo Isah, could not be reached for comments as he did not pick calls to his mobile telephone.


https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/479772-breaking-one-killed-as-bandits-engage-nigerien-soldiers-in-gun-duel.html
PoliticsNnamdi Kanu, Brother Meet At DSS Hdqts by Mecka(op): 6:31pm On Aug 16, 2021
Over one month after his alleged “abduction and extra-judicial rendition” from Kenya, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, Monday, was allowed to have an audience with his family member.

Kanu’s younger brother, Prince Emmanuel Kanu who spoke with Vanguard on phone said he met with the IPOB Leader today (Monday )at the Department of State Services DSS headquarters, Abuja where he is currently detained.

According to him, the IPOB Leader “is in high spirits and now more determined than ever in getting Biafra.”

He said that Kanu had been praying fervently for all Biafrans and sent his greetings and warm felicitations to all Biafrans for their firm support towards him.

Kanu’s younger brother also said that his brother urged all Biafrans to keep the Biafran spirit alive, expressing optimism that the Biafra Republic will soon be restored irrespective of the antics of the enemies.

“He’s in high spirits and appreciates all the support from all Biafrans home and abroad,” he said.

Prince Emmanuel appealed to the Nigerian authorities to grant his brother access to his personal physicians.

He called on the international community to prevail on Nigeria to free his brother so he could reunite with the family.


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/breaking-nnamdi-kanu-brother-meet-at-dss-hdqts/
CrimeU.S. Court Jails Nigerian Kelvin Otunyo For Money Laundering, Identity Theft by Mecka(op): 1:27pm On Aug 15, 2021
A Nigerian man named Kelvin Otunyo has been sentenced to 90 months in prison on federal charges of money laundering and identity theft. Mr Otunyo had been linked to about six schemes to deposit and launder stolen funds in the United States.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced the sentencing on Friday via its website.

“Kelvin Otunyo, 37, of Hyattsville, Md., was sentenced today to 90 months in prison on federal charges stemming from his role in at least six schemes to deposit and launder stolen and unauthorized checks valued at more than $350,000,” the statement said.

Mr Otunyo had pleaded guilty in April to two counts of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft and two counts of conspiracy to commit money laundering.

Mr Otunyo will be placed on four years of supervised release, following his prison term, and his sentence, passed by Chief Judge Beryl A. Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, includes an order to pay restitution of $124,157, and a forfeiture of $303,207.

The court documents outline how six schemes of nine stolen or unauthorized checks from eight victims were carried out. These scams totalled a sum of $355,745.29.

Between August 2017 and 2018, Mr Otunyo and his posse obtained stolen or unauthorized checks from victims, set up shell companies and bank accounts, and deposited or attempted to clear the checks before laundering the resulting proceeds. The scams were carried out using fake identification and names.

Mr Otunyo was originally indicted on August 16, 2018 for two counts of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. He was arrested on August 29, 2018, and arraigned the same day.

He initially agreed to a debriefing session with the government to explore the possibility of cooperating in hopes that he would receive a visa to remain in the United States, in exchange for his cooperation.

He provided the government with his iPhone password, which he later alleged the government used to discover evidence that led to two additional charges.

Mr Otunyo then further alleged that his participation at the debriefing session “was not done in a knowing and intelligent manner and therefore, any evidence obtained from this session should not be used against him.”

Three of Mr Otunyo’s co-conspirators have been charged following the investigation by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-Office of Inspector General.

In June 2019, Chief Judge Howell sentenced Michael Orji to 10 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and $905,274 in restitution payments.

Another Nigerian in Mr Otunyo’s gang, Samson Olawale Afolabi, pleaded guilty to the charges leveled against him and is awaiting sentencing on Oct. 1, 2021.

https://gazettengr.com/u-s-court-jails-nigerian-kelvin-otunyo-for-money-laundering-identity-theft/
PoliticsRe: Court Remands 23-year-man For Attempting To Rape 40- Year-old Woman by Mecka(op): 1:14pm On Aug 15, 2021
say no to rape
PoliticsCourt Remands 23-year-man For Attempting To Rape 40- Year-old Woman by Mecka(op): 6:54am On Aug 15, 2021
An Iyaganku Family Court sitting Ibadan on Thursday ordered that a 23-year-old man, Joshua Oduola, who attempted to rape a 40-year-old woman be remanded in Abolongo Correctional facility.

The police charged Oduola with attempted rape.

Chief Magistrate S. H. Adebisi, who did not take plea of Oduola, for lack of jurisdiction to hear the matter, ordered the police to return the case file to the Oyo State Director of Public Prosecution for legal advice.

Earlier, the Prosecution Counsel, Insp Gbemisola Adedeji told the court that Oduola on Aug. 4, at about 5.30 pm at first gate, Owode area, Apata, allegedly attempted to rape a 40-year-old woman.

Adedeji said Oduola attacked the , woman on her way to church along a bushy path.

He said the woman reported the matter at the Apata Police Station.

The offence, he said contravened the provisions of Section 359 of the Criminal Code of Oyo State, 2000.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/court-remands-23-year-man-for-attempting-to-rape-40-year-old-woman/
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 8:38pm On Aug 13, 2021
OffsahBoye:
Peace my crush


See intelligence Making Aristotle jealous 500 Abeg naira for my baby girl
can't wait to spread her long legs.
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 8:30pm On Aug 13, 2021
ChristoBam:
All my years in school I never argued anything for once. I never argued in the moot court and merely even went. Most of us were like that.

So it doesn't matter.
i'm not a lawyer, but moot or mock court?
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 8:23pm On Aug 13, 2021
HIGHESTPOPORI:
No jacuzzi party tonight and I wanted to see queen and Jmk on bikini.
I will fùck JMK, wife Queen
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 8:20pm On Aug 13, 2021
fertilewomb:
Where she see school go
Person wey go do potopoto for Dubai

Sh uses that her fake accent to confuse her herders to think she has something upstairs
she started well
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 8:17pm On Aug 13, 2021
Geezeem:
If Pere gives in.... I will wash my hands off his matter

I hate nonsense

The only content we are having, they want the guy to take it away lipsrsealed

they think I want to watch people playing TD? like seriously? "remove your pant", "press someone's boobies", "bring out your diick"

This is entertainment? or watch Saga sniff Nini's behind like a he-goat in a ship that has refuse to sail?

jezzz embarassed
that TD is boring. I remember TD in secondary school. We used to perform orgies
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 8:14pm On Aug 13, 2021
Tranquility2345:
Cross looks like a 40 year old man. Look at his shaved face very well and tell me he doesn’t look like one uncle grin

Na that dada and beards dey help am hide him age lipsrsealed
cross is a small boy. Just 31
TV/MoviesRe: BBNaija 2021 Live Updates Thread by Mecka: 7:59pm On Aug 13, 2021
Demnan:
15-20 years ago... could mean 15 years ago which puts him at 29, 16 years ago, pits him at 30, 17 at 31 and so on.
cross is 31. He said it in the DR
EducationJunior School Student Sues Ekiti Government, Demands N15 Million Compensation by Mecka(op): 5:19pm On Aug 13, 2021
A female student of Mary Immaculate Secondary School , Ado- Ekiti, has dragged the Ekiti Government, before a state High Court, seeking N15 million in damages for breach of fundamental rights.

In a suit number HAD/01/CR/2021 and sworn to, at the Ado-Ekiti High Court, on her behalf by Odunayo Agenoisa, Gift Agenoisa claimed that her suspension from school by the government, infringed on her rights.

The plaintiff described as cruel and inhuman, the alleged treatment meted to her for coming to school with the alleged indecent hairstyle.

Joined in the suit are the school principal, Oluwasanmi F.M (1st respondent), the Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye (2nd respondent), the Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission (3rd respondent) and the Ekiti State Government (4th respondent).

In the affidavit attached to the originating summons, the plaintiff claimed that she was singled out of the school assembly on May 22, and given 20 lashes, on the order of the school principal for the alleged indecent hairstyle.

In her originating summons deposed to by her counsel, Timmy Omotoso and brought pursuant to Order 2 rules 1,3,4,5 and 6 of the fundamental rights enforcement procedure rules 2009 as preserved by Section 315 of the 1999 constitution, the applicant demanded N15 million damages for her suspension.

She also demanded her immediate reinstatement back to school with unfettered access to all services being rendered therein.

The plaintiff claimed that the beating she got that day, resulted in bruises, life-threatening scars and bloodstains on her uniform, adding that she fainted and was rushed to the police clinic in Ado- Ekiti, where she was resuscitated.

She claimed further that her letters of protest to the wife of Ekiti Governor and some relevant government agencies were not responded to, hence, her resorting to legal action to seek redress.

The plaintiff added that she was being denied access to the school premises and her class, on the orders of the principal since then.

On May 22, the plaintiff’s father and a police sergeant, Elijah Agenoisa, allegedly mobilised four armed policemen to the school to manhandle some teachers for scolding his daughter who was said to have come to school with an indecent hairdo against the school rules and regulation.


https://gazettengr.com/junior-school-student-sues-ekiti-government-demands-n15-million-compensation/
EducationMeet Youngest, First Nigerian To Bag 2-star Dsc In Child Developmental Science by Mecka(op): 5:28pm On Aug 12, 2021
Nigeria is blessed with intellectuals and geniuses who have distinguished themselves in their several fields of study over the years.

These Nigerians have not only put the country on the map and in the eye of the global community with their amazing talents but also contributed towards the growth and development of Nigeria at large.

One of such geniuses is a young Nigerian lady identified as Zainab Sulaiman.

Zainab Sulaiman recently bagged 2-Star Doctor of Science (DSc) award in Child Developmental Science.

She is the first Nigerian young woman to be conferred the award by Human Rights Education Federation.

It will interest you to know that Sulaiman received the award alongside Bayelsa State First Lady, Dr. Gloria Ebibomo Diri, Taraba State First Lady, Dr. Anna
Mbasughun Darius Ishaku, and Gombe State First Lady, Dr.Asma’u Inuwa Yahaya.

What is child development?
Child development is a process that covers the whole period from conception to an individual becoming a fully functioning adult. It’s a journey from total dependence to full independence.

Photo: Dr. Sulaiman recieving the DSc award Child development incorporates, physical growth as well as intellectual, language, emotional and social
development. Whilst these aspects are often considered separately, in reality each influences all of the others.

Prior to the child development care, Sulaiman has been able to address some specific aspects of children’s needs, focusing on children with special health needs, working to provide comprehensive
health care for children, including therapeutic and rehabilitative services, management and treatment for the trauma of abuse.

The author has a genuine interest in the well-being of children and she’s committed much of her time to the cause through her unflinching communication skills and knowledge. This has earned her the life patron of Hope for African Children Initiative Forum, HACITIF, an organisation set up to cater for the awareness and
reducing stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, as well as extend the life of the parent – child relationship.

She has also mapped out different mass – friendly policies that the government can work on, especially for early childhood development, as well focus on what is best for young children in their critical years.

Who is Zainab Sulaiman?
Zainab Sulaiman popularly called ‘Dr. Sulaiman’ is a Kogi-born medical doctor with wealth of experience in child development care.

The 29-year-old lady who was born to a family of seven has taken off her career at the Kaduna State University and later proceeded to Crimea State University, Russia. Graduated from Uzhgorod National University Ukraine in 2019.

The poet also earned Diploma in Cosmetology, Fashion designing and Reflexology.

Dr. Sulaiman is currently the Vice President of Human Rights Watch and Youths Empowerment foundation.

She’s also an ambassador to International Human Rights Protection Services (IHRPS) in Nigeria, with headquarters in Florida, United States.

She has vehemently lent her voice for struggles to curtail violations of human rights, especially by officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), particularly those that involve torture, extra – judicial killings,
extortion and other forms of abuses.

To her, the protection of the rights of Nigerians is supposed to be a major concern and objective of the people in government.

Her unwavering love towards childcare and women empowerment in the society is fascinating. She has many journals to her credit.

Through her community-based medical outreach, she has championed many causes in the reproductive health sphere including education about birth control,
pregnancy, infections, medications and treatments.

Providing pregnancy options and has carried out HIV/AIDS screenings and counseling.

Indeed, Zainab Sulaiman is an inspiration for young Nigerians with determination and passion to maximise success amid all odds.

https://cdn.vanguardngr.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Dr-Zainab-Award.jpeg

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/meet-youngest-first-nigerian-to-bag-2-star-dsc-in-child-developmental-science/
PoliticsTwenty Nigerian Tailors Picked For U.S. Exchange Programme by Mecka(op): 9:51pm On Aug 11, 2021
Twenty Nigerian fashion designers have been selected for the International Visitors Leadership Program, an exchange project hosted by the U.S. Department of State.

In a press statement released by the U.S. Consulate, Public Affairs Officer Stephen Ibelli noted that empowering Nigeria’s tailors would encourage the country’s economic growth and place in the fashion industry. Mr Ibelli also notes that the project will help local fashion designers get ready for the global scene.

“With growing artistic, sports, film, and music ties between Nigeria and the United States, the goal of this IVLP project is to further deepen Nigerian and American ties by adding fashion as another area of growing connectivity between our two countries,” Mr Ibelli said.

“We are excited to provide fashion designers from Nigeria with this unique opportunity to connect with their U.S. counterparts. This is part of our strategic outreach to Nigeria’s creative industry, by strengthening economic ties through culture and fashion.”

The project is titled, “Promoting Economic Growth and Trade in the Fashion Industry,” will offer the participants professional and
cultural exchange opportunities in the U.S. fashion scene and educate them on the importance of marketing African designs in the United States.

The virtual exchange program which began on August 9 is billed to end on August 28. The three-week program will allow the selected tailors to speak with a range of U.S. fashion designers, manufacturers and consumers.  Its aim is to provide firsthand knowledge about American society, culture, and politics, while encouraging professional relationships between both countries.

https://gazettengr.com/twenty-nigerian-tailors-picked-for-u-s-exchange-programme/
PoliticsReps’ Bill Seeks 10-Year-Jail Sentence For Disclosure Of Security Agents’ ID by Mecka(op): 12:42pm On Aug 08, 2021
A law seeking a maximum of a ten-year jail sentence for anyone who discloses the identity of a security personnel on duty resulting to their harm or death, is underway in the House of Representatives.

The “National Security Agencies Personnel Identity Protection Bill, 2021”, exclusively obtained by VANGUARD, is sponsored by Rep. Oluwole Oke(Osun-PDP).

“A person who willfully disclose the identity of a Security Agency Personnel or Agent to a person to whom he is not authorized on behalf of the government to disclose, is guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of five years Ora fine not below the sum of five hundred thousand naira or both.

“Where the unauthorized disclosure of the identity of a Security Agency Personnel or Agent is likely to or results in grievous bodily harm or death of the Personnel or Agent or in any manner, impedes the intelligence collection of the Security Agency, the punishment shall be imprisonment for a term of ten years without option of fine”, the Bill states in part.

The piece of legislation is expected to be considered in September, when the National Assembly will resume from its Annual Recess.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/insecurity-reps-bill-seeks-10-yr-jail-sentence-for-disclosure-of-security-agents-identities/

PoliticsSERAP Tells Buhari To Probe Spending Of ₦881bn By 367 Mdas Without Appropriation by Mecka(op): 9:51am On Aug 08, 2021
SERAP said: “Any such investigation should establish whether public funds have been mismanaged, diverted or stolen. Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any misappropriated public funds should be fully recovered.”

In the open letter dated 7 August, 2021 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “These damning revelations suggest a grave violation of the public trust, the Nigerian Constitution of 1999 [as amended], and international human rights and anti-corruption standards. Spending of public funds without appropriation will create opportunities for corruption.”

According to SERAP, “Investigating and prosecuting anyone who spent public funds without appropriation and authorisation will send a powerful message that this illegal and unconstitutional practice will not be tolerated under your watch.”

The letter, read in part: “Complying with constitutional requirements and international standards on spending of public funds would ensure effective and efficient management of public resources, and put the country’s wealth and resources to work for the common good of all Nigerians.public debts.”

“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 14 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”

“According to part 2 of the 2018 annual audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, ₦880,894,733,084.811 was spent by 367 MDAs without appropriation. 14 MDAs reportedly spent ₦162,924,630,539.20 without appropriation. Similarly, 100 MDAs spent ₦229,136,261,325.73 on ‘social benefits’ without appropriation.”

“Furthermore, 151 MDAs exceeded their 2018 Overhead Appropriation by ₦476,625,502,048.87 without any evidence of supplementary appropriation or approved virement to support the extra-budgetary spending. 102 MDAs also reportedly spent ₦12,208,339,171.01 on subsidies without budgetary provisions.

The Auditor-General is concerned that the money may have been misappropriated.”

“Identifying and naming and shaming those who spent public funds without appropriation would improve the chances of success of your government’s oft-repeated commitment to fight corruption and end the impunity of perpetrators. It will also serve the public interest.”

“SERAP is seriously concerned about the adverse consequences of unconstitutional and poor management of public resources on the human rights of poor and vulnerable Nigerians, including denying them access to essential public goods and services such as quality healthcare, education, and clean water.”

“Public confidence and accountability in public administration are instrumental to the prevention of corruption and greater efficiency. Transparent and accountable public financial management is a key pillar of good governance, and of vital importance to provide public goods and services to citizens, as well as to create and maintain fair and sustainable economic and social conditions in the country.”

“Corruption thrives in contexts that provide opportunities to engage in illicit conduct, widespread motives to take advantage of such opportunities and weak controls.

The prevention of corruption is more effective environments that minimize opportunities, comply with constitutional and international legal requirements and standards, as well as encourage integrity.”

“SERAP also urges you to direct Mrs Zainab Ahmed, Minister of Finance Budget and National Planning to publish widely the details of MDAs and public officials involved in the unconstitutional spending of public funds.”

“SERAP urges you to ask the heads of the MDAs involved to explain why they reportedly spent public funds without appropriation, contrary to constitutional and international requirements, and standards of transparency and accountability in the preparation, processes and decisions on their budgets, and to return any money spent without approval to the public treasury.”

“Section 80(2) of the Nigerian Constitution provides that no money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation except to meet expenditure that is charged upon the fund by the Constitution or where the issue of the money has been authorized by an Appropriation Act, Supplementary Appropriation Act or an Act passed in pursuance of section 81 of the Constitution.”

“Similarly, articles 5 and 9 of the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party impose legal obligations on your government to ensure proper management of public affairs and public funds, and to promote sound and transparent administration of public affairs and public property.”

The letter was copied to Mr Malami; Professor Bolaji Owasanoye, Chairman Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC); Mr
Abdulrasheed Bawa, Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC); and Mrs Ahmed.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/probe-spending-of-n881bn-by-367-mdas-without-appropriation-serap-tells-buhari/

CrimeWe Use "Banga" As Guns During Operation — Robbery Suspects by Mecka(op): 12:38pm On Aug 07, 2021
For some time now, residents in communities around Igberigbe area of Ikorodu Lagos, have been going through horrifying moments in the hands of men of the underworld who invade their homes unannounced.

Some of them resigned to fate by keeping a reasonable amount of money in the event of an invasion.

This is to avoid being beaten or even shot by the robbers, during operation.

Miffed by the continuous robbery operations, youths in the area decided to take the bull by the horn, by teaming up with some members of vigilante groups and the Police.

This action paid off as three suspected members of a robbery gang that stormed the community are cooling their heels in the custody of the Strike Team of the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja.

The suspects stormed Igberigbe area of Ikorodu recently, where they carried out a house-to-house raid of two streets, dispossessing victims of cash, phones, jewellery and electrical appliances.

During the operation, the youths who were alerted raced to the scene and overpowered the gang.

Our strategy
Surprisingly, the leader of the gang, Segun Adeleke, disclosed during an interview with Crime Guard that they had never operated with a gun.

Rather, he revealed that “ We used banga during operation. We have operated at Igberigbe, three times.

We would strike the banga which sound victims would assume to be gunshots. We operated between 12.30 am and 2.30 am.

“We don’t force doors open. Owners of the apartments open for us because we would threaten to shoot them if they acted otherwise.

“We don’t rape during operation too because we are not armed. In one of the rooms we entered, we saw a woman naked. I told her to put on her clothes but she said she was pregnant and was hot since there was no light. I collected three phones and jewellery from her.

“After operation, we would take the stolen items to Alakara Mushin, to sell. I sold one of the iPhones for N20,000.

Escape from Police custody
In the course of the interaction with Adeleke, he disclosed that he was once arrested but escaped from Police custody.

Explaining how that was possible, he said, “ I was arrested with a toy gun by policemen at Victoria Island division.

“I had joined a robbery gang to steal items from a supermarket.

“On the day we were to be taken to court, the IPO brought me and other suspects out of the cell.

“He said he forgot something in the office and left to get it. I mixed with the crowd and escaped.

“I went straight to a ghetto in Akala, Mushin. You don’t have to pay for accommodation there. I slept on the streets. I met two other boys there, with whom I formed a new gang.

Arrest
“This gang headed by me would leave Mushin for Igberigbe, to operate. At the last operation, youths chased us. I was lucky to escape.

“I rushed down to Mushin to hide, unknown to me that other members had been arrested. One of them brought the Police to arrest me”.

On his part, 21-year-old Quadri Adeniyi said his role in the operation was to stay outside and look out for any intruder.

He said, “I am a bus conductor. My job was to stand outside and alert members of any intruder, during operation. I also gathered all the phones collected from victims inside a bag”.

The third suspect, Abiola Fatai, 21, claimed that was his first time joining the gang for operation.

He said, “During the operation, I collected a Plasma television from one of the rooms. When the street boys came, we all tried to escape.

“I didn’t know the terrain because that was my first time joining them to rob. I ran into a street which led me to a dead end.

“My intention was to jump through a fence but I discovered that the Plasma television was heavy and slowed my pace. At the same time, I couldn’t throw it away”.

The suspects have been charged to court.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/we-use-banga-as-guns-during-operation-robbery-suspects/

PoliticsOba Of Benin Gets Quadruplets by Mecka(op): 6:53pm On Aug 06, 2021
IT was jubilation among diganitaries, palace chiefs and members of the royal family as the Oba of Benin, His Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Ewuare II Friday announced the delivery of quadruplets from his fifth wife, Princess (Oloi) Esosa Ewuare II into the Benin Royal family.

Oba Ewuare II made the announcement at 4:57p.m in his palace when he received the national leadership of old students of Immaculate Conception College (ICC).

The monarch gave the sexes of the babies as three boys and one girl.

The monarch, paid tribute to God Almighty and the ancestors for the blessing just as the presiding Priest of the oldest West African Church known as Holy Aruosa Church, Ohen-Osa Igbinoghodua Edebiri, offered prayer to God for wisdom and guidance for the new babies.

Recall that the Oba had in May 2020, welcome his first infant Prince after he ascended the throne of his forebears as the 40th Oba of Benin from her Royal Highness, Princess (Oloi) Iyayota Ewuare II.

Princess (Oloi) Aisosa Ewuare II is the youngest among the wives of the traditional ruler.



https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/oba-of-benin-gets-quadruplets/
HealthCholera Kills 295 People In Jigawa, Residents Decry Poor Water Supply, Sanitatio by Mecka(op): 12:40pm On Aug 05, 2021
Residents of Kano and Jigawa states have blamed lack of access to potable water and poor sanitation for the cholera outbreak reported to have caused at least 295 deaths between March and July in the two North-western states.

About 195 persons died from the disease in Kano, while over 100 persons lost their lives in neighbouring Jigawa in less than one month, officials said.

The Permanent Secretary of Jigawa State Ministry of Health, Salisu Mu’azu, told reporters Wednesday that over 5,000 suspected cases of the disease were reported in the state within the four months.

Kano State’s epidemiologist, Bashir Lawan, also said as of Wednesday, about 5,555 suspected cases had been recorded from March.

Residents narrate ordeals

Hassan Galadima said he lost two relatives to the outbreak, including his elder brother’s wife, Aisha Muhammad. He said the 35-year old would have survived if the Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in their hometown of Zareku in Miga Local Government Area of Jigawa State was functional and had drugs.

“We took her to the facility on July 29 but they asked us to go home after first aid was given to her.

But her condition deteriorated overnight and we returned her to the facility the following day. But she was not admitted due to lack of drugs to treat her at the centre,” Mr Galadima said.

He said they had to take the patient to Jahun General Hospital in the neighbouring local government area, about 20 kilometres away. Still, she gave up the ghost there, leaving behind a four-month-old toddler and four other children.

Mr Galadima said the following day, his younger sister, Adama Galadima, 16, also died from the disease.

“She died at home because we could not take her to the primary healthcare centre as we knew that there were no drugs there.”

He said four other family members infected with the disease were, however, responding to treatment at the centre, following supply of drugs to the facility.

Mr Galadima blamed the cholera outbreak on unclean water in the area and the deaths on the poor response by health workers.

He said many people in the community source water from damaged pipes, despite warnings by health officials of the danger in consuming the water.

As of Tuesday, Mr Galadima was still at the Zareku primary healthcare centre, taking care of some of his infected relatives. He said the community recorded the fatalities before the arrival of drugs at the centre.

The village head, Abdulkadir Ibrahim, said five persons died on Friday in the village, but the figure had risen to eight by Tuesday.

Abubakar Idris from Kurna area of Kano metropolis said he took his 41-year-old wife to the Infectious Disease Hospital in Kano after she vomitted throughout the night.

“Our area does not have access to potable water. We rely on water vendors, but we don’t know the source of the water they sell to us. The poor drainage system in our area is also responsible for our poor hygiene.

“But we are happy that health officials received us well at the hospital and provided us medication free of charge. My wife is due for discharge,” Mr Idris told PREMIUM TIMES on Friday.

Rahila Salisu from Kawaji in Nasarawa LGA in Kano said her six-year old son, Muhammad Sani, survived the disease after prompt care at a health facility.

“After a downpour, I noticed him vomiting. When I gave him first aid, it stopped, but a day after, it started again, and he fell unconscious. When we arrived at the hospital, I thought he had died when he fainted. But Allah made it possible for the doctors to bring him back to life.

“As you can see now, he is okay following the treatment in the hospital. Everything given to us here, even feeding, is free. I am very grateful,” Mrs Salisu said. The little boy was discharged from the hospital on Friday.

Adamu Ahmad from Goron Dutse in Kano metropolis said he found himself in the hospital after eating a cabbage served to him by his wife.

“I used to discourage the consumption of such vegetables due to poor hygiene and shortage of water in our area, but I eventually became a victim,” Mr Ahmad said.

“I was brought to the hospital on Wednesday unconscious. Someone here told me they had lost hope on me but thank God I am okay after treatment in the hospital, and I am due for discharge now.”

The Kano State epidemiologist, Bashir Muhammad, said the outbreak was first recorded on March 5 in one local government area before it escalated to 41 out of the 44 council areas in the state.

“The state government has been doing the needful in emergency preparedness to handle the cases. The activities range from active case search both in the community and health facilities and contact tracing of relatives of the infected individuals,” the official said.

The official, a medical doctor, said that recorded cases had dropped to only four local government areas. He said the high number of cases recorded was due to the rainy season and the Sallah festivities.

“The state government has provided the gadgets and equipment the ministry needs and activities are going on at the community level like the treatment of the contaminated wells across the LGAs.

“The state ministry has also reached out to over 9,925 households, enlightening them about the preventive measures,” the official, who is also the incident manager said.

Measures in tackling the outbreak in Jigawa

Mr Mu’azu said because 90 per cent of the deaths in Jigawa occurred at homes, it is difficult for health officials to ascertain the numbers of fatalities.

“The residents’ attitude of not patronising health facilities until the case is severe, caused the high rate of fatalities,” Mr Mu’azu said on Wednesday.

“The state government with support from UNICEF , Doctor without Borders and World Health Organisation are up and doing in response to the outbreak,” he said.

Mr Mu’azu said with the support of the partners, the state has trained communities surveillance personnel across the state on how to identify cholera cases in their localities.

“Also, there are radio jingles sensitising the residents on the preventive measures. The facilities are available and the drugs and consumables have been decentralised across the three senatorial zones for easy access and distribution,” the permanent secretary said.
https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/477626-residents-decry-poor-water-supply-sanitation-as-cholera-kills-295-in-jigawa-kano.html

Politics2023: Buhari Not Interested In Delivering Transparent Polls To Nigerians ― Wike by Mecka(op): 7:00pm On Aug 03, 2021
Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike has stated that President Muhammadu Buhari was not committed to delivering transparent elections to Nigerians in 2023.

Wike also said the rejection of electronic transmission of election results by All Progressives Congress, APC, members in the National Assembly, was tantamount to a coup against Nigerians, who are desirous of free, fair, and credible polls.

According to a statement by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Kelvin Ebiri, Wike spoke during the official presentation of a letter of nomination to him as “the 2020 Governor of the Year Award” by the management of the Leadership Media Group at the Government House, Port Harcourt, Tuesday.

Wike said that the current National Assembly capitalized on the seeming political indifference of Nigerians to deliberately vote against the inclusion of electronic transmission of election results in the amended Electoral Act, describing those NASS members who voted against transmission of election results electronically as enemies of the country.


He said: “Those who voted against e-transmission of results should be ashamed of themselves. They never mean well for this country. If you are a member of the National Assembly and you voted against electronic transmission of results, your children should call you and say daddy, are you well?

“I can’t believe anybody who went to school in this digital period, will vote against electronic transmission of results. What kind of country is this? What kind of National Assembly members do we have?”

Wike declared that the rejection of electronic transmission of election results by APC lawmakers, even when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had affirmed that it has the capacity to electronically transmit results, is tantamount to a coup against the citizens of the country.

The governor said he had expected President Buhari, who had openly declared that he respects former President Goodluck Jonathan, for not compromising the 2015 general elections, to build on the electoral legacy of his predecessor.

He noted that President Muhammad Buhari’s failure to prevail on APC members in the National Assembly to support the inclusion of electronic transmission of election results in the amended Electoral Acts, proves he does not intend to leave a legacy of a transparent electoral process.

He said: “If Jonathan did not believe in the transparency of the election, he would not have allowed card reader to be used. So, he introduced the card reader as a sitting President, knowing fully well that that could be an albatross to him. But he said no, I want us to move to the next level.

“Mr. President cannot tell us that sincerely he wants to conduct a free, fair, credible election. Let nobody deceive you. It is very clear that there is no sure intention at all.”

The governor, also stated that he has never and would never influence any media organization to nominate him for an award, advised media groups against bestowing awards on non-performing political officeholders.

Meanwhile, the Group Managing Director of Leadership Newspaper, Muazu Elazeh, said they were in Port Harcourt to formally present Governor Wike the letter of his nomination as the Leadership Governor of the year and then to invite him to attend the Leadership conference slated for September.

“When the board of editors of Leadership met for this nomination because it is something we do every year, when your name was mentioned, I think it is the only name that received unanimous endorsement because of your practical approach to leadership and governance; because of your focus in infrastructural development which is resetting the business and economy of Rivers State,” Elazeh
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/2023-buhari-not-interested-in-delivering-transparent-polls-to-nigerians-wike/

EducationFG, ASUU Meet In Abuja by Mecka(op): 7:52am On Aug 03, 2021
The Federal Government has expressed shock over yesterday commencement of strike by members of National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, despite a successful meeting with its leaders last week to sort out their grievances.

This is as the government said it held a successful meeting with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to iron out its grievances.

A statement by the Deputy Director Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Charles Akpan, said the Federal Government through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, was shocked that NARD directed its members nationwide to commence industrial action after having a successful meeting last week.

The Minister spoke at an interactive meeting between the Federal Government and ASUU aimed at evaluating the implementation of the Memorandum of Action, MOA, entered into by the parties.

Addressing the press, Ngige said the meeting evaluated seven key issues, with both parties expressing satisfaction with the implementation stages of what he termed “work in progress. “

He said some of the items in the MOA were nearly done hundred percent within the timeline.

Ngige explained that the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, was directed to expedite action on the integrity test on the University Transparency Accountability Solution (UTAS) which if successful, would eliminate the challenges posed by the peculiarities of the university system to the current payment platform.

According to the minister, government had also paid N30 billion as the University Revitalization Fund as contained in the MOA since January 2021.

The money according to him, was however still lodged with the Central Bank of Nigeria, pending the conclusion of the audit report of the Implementation Committee on the use of previous funds disbursement to universities by the Ministry of Education and the National University Commission.

“ The report has been turned in deliberated upon and both the Education Ministry and the NUC have promised to write to the Accountant General of the Federation next week for the release of the money to the NEEDS Special Account for onward disbursement to universities shortly,” he said.

Ngige noted that the monies would be paid to successful universities based on the evaluation report of the committee while those with shortcomings will be made to make up before accessing the fund.

He disclosed that apart from the N40 billion Earned Allowance which the Federal Government had already paid, “the Budget Office of the Federation showed evidence that N22 billion Earned Allowances for year 2021 is already captured in the 2021 supplementary budget of the federation, and will soon be accessed .

On the proliferation of State universities , a bill has been sent to the National Assembly by the NUC to strengthen its arms in terms of delisting universities where funding and other parameters are inadequate.

This effort was commended as all the parties agreed that mushrooming and proliferation of state universities, some of which mock the ideals of an ivory tower, should stop.

“The inconsistencies in the IPPIS payment was also discussed. There was good interaction and documents were exchanged between IPPIS and ASUU.

ASUU is to go back to its members so that we can have a proper update on the extent of the inconsistencies in payment.

We expressed our displeasure that these things are happening – amputation of salaries, not-too-clear, foggy things happening over peoples monthly emoluments. So we have asked IPPIS and ASUU to work together over this.”

Similarly, he informed that evidence was presented that promotion arrears had been paid to some universities, while the Budget Office of the federation and the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation were asked to liaise with ASUU to sort out the rest, noting also that the standing committee on the matter has been expended to include National Income Salaries and Wages Commission .

“A situation where a university professor is paid N107, 000 out of mistake or over deduction is unacceptable,” Ngige declared.

In his speech the President of ASUU Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, expressed satisfaction with the outcome and promised ASUU will reach out to members.

Relevant Ministries and agencies were represented at the meeting, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Peter Tarfa and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission, Professor Rasheed Abubakar.
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/strike-fg-ASUU-meet-in-abuja/

HealthNigeria Receives 4 Million Doses Of Vaccine From U.S. by Mecka(op): 3:53pm On Aug 02, 2021
The Nigerian government on Monday received four million and eighty doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine donated by the Biden-Harris administration of the United States of America.

The vaccines, which were delivered through the COVAX facility, a vaccine alliance aimed at ensuring equitable distribution of vaccines globally, had earlier arrived in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city, around 2:15 a.m. on Sunday.

The vaccines were received and stored at the country’s National Strategic Cold Store near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The President of the United States, Joe Biden, had in May, pledged to share 80 million vaccines produced in the U.S with countries around the world to protect the most vulnerable and stem transmission of the coronavirus.

Of these 80 million, Africa is expected to receive 25 million, with the first shipments to Burkina Faso, Djibouti, and Ethiopia which had already been delivered.

While addressing the media on Monday morning in Abuja, the executive director and chief executive officer of Nigeria’s National Primary Health Care Development Agency ( NPHCDA), Faisal Shuaib, said the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, had, ahead of the arrival of the vaccines, purchased 60 ultra-cold chain equipment and have since allocated one to each of the 36 states.


https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/477073-nigeria-receives-4-million-doses-of-vaccine-from-u-s.html
PoliticsAPC Congress: Ebonyi Adopts Option A4 Voting System by Mecka(op): 7:46am On Aug 01, 2021
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ebonyi adopted Option A4 voting system in the conduct of the party Ward Congress in the 171 electoral wards in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Option A4 or open ballot voting system is a method whereby people queue behind pictures of their preferred candidate in an election.

The system was introduced by Prof Humphrey Nwosu, the then head of the electoral body in 1993 under the regime of the former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida.

NAN reports that State party officials in conjunction with congress committee from the party’s national headquarters distributed materials for the 171 wards at the state party secretariat in Abakaliki.

The election materials were distributed to the local government areas through the senatorial zonal headquarters for onward distribution to the various wards.

Some APC chieftains who spoke to newsmen in separate interviews said that the exercise was peaceful and successful.

They added that the peaceful conduct of the congress was eloquent testimony of the excellent leadership of Governor Dave Umahi of Ebonyi.

Dr Kenneth Ugbala, Secretary to State Government (SSG) told newsmen at Onueke that the party had made seamless arrangements for peaceful exercise in the state.

He said that everybody involved in the exercise was ready and commended the party faithful for their level of compliance with the party’s directive and guidelines for the congress.

“I think it is very transparent, democratic and in line with the directives of the party and we look forward to supervising the local government congress and the processes that would follow,” Ugbala said.

Dr Eni-Iduma Chima, chairman of Afikpo South LGA who spoke to newsmen at Ndeoke ward in Ugwuma, Edda after monitoring the exercise, said that those who emerged were the choice of the people.

He described the exercise as transparent, credible and met the requirements of the guidelines stipulated for the conduct of the congress.

“The stakeholders met, harmonised the lists and agreed on consensus which were validated in field as attested by the large number of party faithful that participated in the exercise.

“There was no parallel congress in any part of the LGA and the exercise was violence free,” Chima said.

In a similar vein, Mrs Chinyere Iyioku, chairman of Ohaozara LGA told newsmen at Obiozara, the council headquarters, that the congress was peaceful and witnessed large turnout of party faithful in all 10 wards.

According to her, stakeholders adopted consensus mechanism to determine the new party officials in the various wards which were validated in the field by their votes.

Iyioku however, said that elections were conducted at Obiozara ward 1 to choose ward leaders due to failure of stakeholders to agree on consensus candidates.

“We have the election materials and anywhere there is no consensus, we will do normal election.

“We are not anticipating any crisis because the whole process is very transparent and open for people to see,” she said.

Also, at Onueke, headquarters of Ezza South LGA and zonal senatorial headquarters for the Ebonyi Central zone, Mr Ken Eze described the exercise as transparent, credible, fair and devoid of violence.

He noted that the elected officials in all the wards emerged through consensus arrangements which were, however, validated by the people themselves in the field.

“Distribution of materials to the various LGAs for onward transmission to their various wards began early and ended around 1.pm.

“The congress is a family affair and we don’t anticipate any problem but where there is, we have inbuilt mechanism to resolve such.

“The consensus that the party talked about is a consensus where those who will emerge will have to test their popularity in the field,” Eze said.

Meanwhile, collation of results are underway in the exercise which witnessed large turnout of party faithful held on Saturday at the various ward collation centres of the state using.
(NAN)


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/08/apc-congress-ebonyi-adopts-option-a4-voting-system/
PoliticsTwo Young Nigerians Bag The Diana Award 2021 by Mecka(op): 3:03pm On Jul 30, 2021
Two young Nigerians have been honoured with The Diana Award for going above and beyond in their daily life to create and sustain positive change.

The Diana Award was established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, to honour young persons aged 9-25 years for their social action or humanitarian work.

Oluwananumi Dawodu and Akingbola Adewunmi, both aged 23, from Lagos have been recognised by the Award board.

Adewunmi Akingbola is the founder of ‘HealthDrive Nigeria’, an initiative in the South West of Nigeria, which aims to raise awareness, test and vaccinate people against the deadly Hepatitis B virus.

Adewunmi’s awareness-raising campaigns have reached a good number of people in the region itself, whilst also engaging national audiences through mass media.

His free screening programmes have tested a lot of people so far and ensured carriers of the virus gain access to specialist support via referrals.

On top of that, Adewunmi has delivered a highly subsidised vaccination programme to people in the region.

His work has inspired and engaged other young peopleto get involved in the initiative and set up similar health programmes themselves.

He is a recipient of AfriSAFE 2020 awards and IKapture 25 Under 25 Awards.

On the other hand, Dawodu Oluwananumi launched the ‘End Hepatitis’ project which has helped over 1,500 people get screened and vaccinated against Hepatitis B.

In response to the global pandemic in March 2020, Dawodu supervised a team of 20 volunteers to share information on how to prevent the spread of the virus, fielding over 1,000 calls daily.

Dawodu has also organised sessions on social impact topics and leadership skills for organisations like the Gates Foundation and was awarded the ‘SME 100 Africa 25under25 Most Enterprising Person Award’ in 2020.

Congratulating the 2021 Awardees, Tessy Ojo, CEO of The Diana Award, says: “We congratulate all our new Diana Award recipients from the UK and all over the globe who are changemakers for their generation.

“We know by receiving this honour they will inspire more young people to get involved in their communities and begin their own journey as active citizens.

“For over twenty years The Diana Award has valued and invested in young people encouraging them to continue to make positive change in their communities and lives of others.”


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2021/07/two-nigerians-bag-the-diana-award-2021/

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