₦airaland Forum

At exactly 10.40 am, my phone rang as I headed out of the office. At the other side of the phone was a baritonic voice calling my full names and inquiring to know how I was doing. “Vincent Aluu, how you today?” I answered in the affirmative not knowing who the caller was. When the caller introduced himself as simply Udom Inoyo, I melted inside of me wondering why such an unassuming personality would dial my line on a rainy Tuesday.

He told me, “Thank you for all you have been doing to promote our little effort at pushing the human race forward. You did all of them without meeting or knowing much about me. I do not take this for granted”. I was yet to recover from the shock when he went to give in details some of the things, I have done to promote him.

He invited me over to his residence which I obliged. At least it would afford me the platform to have a one on one of the greatest Malabites, of which I happen to be one. It was a memorable meeting with one of Akwa Ibom finest who spent 31 years in Exxon Mobil, rose to the top of his career and retired without a query, bribery allegation, suspension or corruption issue.

We discussed on a variety of contemporary issues plaguing Nigeria inclusive of leadership recruitment process, politics, journalism, governance, his life and times at Mobil. We also talked about the impact he is creating in Akwa Ibom state unannounced. It was indeed an eye-opening meeting for me.

I queried to know why he does not do media hype of his contributions to the development of Akwa Ibom State. He told me Vincent; “the left hand must not know what the right hand does. We do what we do to put smiles on the faces of people and not to take the shine off them. We are not in a popularity contest”.

“My passion is to create value in people so they will be useful to themselves and society, not people who would be begging for handouts to survive. My mission to create capacity in youths to be self-sustained, independent job and wealth creators. If leadership is not to show the people the road to better life and future, then the opportunity is a wasted one’, he said.

“I run on the fuel of hard work, diligence, honesty and fear of God. Prayer alone won’t do for you what preparations would do because God is not a partial God”, he added.

As I rose to take my leave after about 2 hours of tete-a-tete with the immediate past Vice President of Exxon Mobil, founder and Advisor of Inoyo Toro Foundation, it was a reinvigorated me that bid him goodbye.

As a scholar on leadership and governance, the conclusion of the matter is that if Akwa Ibom or Nigeria, needs a new kind of leadership that is transformational, they should search no further. Udom Inoyo represents that paradigm shift we earnestly seek or yearn for,

Aluu Vincent (PhD in View), is the Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State and Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News.

Buhari government is known for violating all known laws. Federal character in the worst victim.

Nellyvin:
House of Representatives has called on the federal government to address the constitutional infraction in the appointment of the Chairman and Secretary of the Federal Character Commission as well as Heads of other MDAs.
The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved at plenary by Deputy Chairman House Committee on Communications, Rep. Unyime Idem.

Rep. Idem, while moving the motion, said in compliance with the resolution of the House dated February 25, 2020, the president, on April 28, 2020 appointed the Chairman and Commissioners of the Federal Character Commission.

He said the current secretary of the commission was appointed as a substantive secretary to the commission in March 2017, whose tenure was expected to end on April 7, 2021, but was re-appointed by the president on April 7, 2021 for a second term.

The lawmaker noted that the current Chairman of the Commission, Muheeba Dankaka is from the Northern part of the Country and the re-appointed Secretary Mohammed Bello is also from the Northern part of the Country, which is in flagrant violation of Section 14 (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as Amended.

The member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency stressed that the Federal Character Commission is one of the agencies of the federal government with the responsibility to promote, monitor and enforce compliance with the principles of the proportional sharing of all bureaucratic, economic and political positions at all levels of government.

He pointed out that the Principle of Federal Character, as contained in the Act governing the commission, lay emphasis on leadership positions being equally distributed between zones.

The House called on the federal government to address the unfair, unjust and inequitable appointment of both the Chairperson and Secretary of the Federal Character Commission from a particular zone of the country.

It mandated the House Committee on Federal Character to ensure compliance.

Media Unit
Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency
16/09/2021

House of Representatives has called on the federal government to address the constitutional infraction in the appointment of the Chairman and Secretary of the Federal Character Commission as well as Heads of other MDAs.
The resolution of the House was sequel to the adoption of a motion moved at plenary by Deputy Chairman House Committee on Communications, Rep. Unyime Idem.

Rep. Idem, while moving the motion, said in compliance with the resolution of the House dated February 25, 2020, the president, on April 28, 2020 appointed the Chairman and Commissioners of the Federal Character Commission.

He said the current secretary of the commission was appointed as a substantive secretary to the commission in March 2017, whose tenure was expected to end on April 7, 2021, but was re-appointed by the president on April 7, 2021 for a second term.

The lawmaker noted that the current Chairman of the Commission, Muheeba Dankaka is from the Northern part of the Country and the re-appointed Secretary Mohammed Bello is also from the Northern part of the Country, which is in flagrant violation of Section 14 (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as Amended.

The member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency stressed that the Federal Character Commission is one of the agencies of the federal government with the responsibility to promote, monitor and enforce compliance with the principles of the proportional sharing of all bureaucratic, economic and political positions at all levels of government.

He pointed out that the Principle of Federal Character, as contained in the Act governing the commission, lay emphasis on leadership positions being equally distributed between zones.

The House called on the federal government to address the unfair, unjust and inequitable appointment of both the Chairperson and Secretary of the Federal Character Commission from a particular zone of the country.

It mandated the House Committee on Federal Character to ensure compliance.

Media Unit
Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency
16/09/2021

...Redeems N5million pledge for MFM win in Uyo

By Bassey Ibiatisuho

International Businessman Akan Udofia has promised to give Akwa United FC $20,000 if the team beats Algerian Champions, CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League second leg preliminary round match in Algiers.

The Chief Executive Officer of Desicon Engineering Limited made the promise while redeeming a pledge of N5million to the club, a promise he made to give the team one million for each goal scored against MFM FC in the last home match of last season played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium which the home side won 5-2.

During the presentation, Udofia commended the team's effort last season which saw them emerge champions of the NPFL for the first time in the team's 25 years history, adding that the team deserve every support and encouragement to do more.

"I am proud of Akwa United, much more proud to be an Akwa Ibomite. I have been following your activities online and when I saw that Akwa United needed a win or draw in their last home match of the season to win the league I decided to come up with cash incentive to encourage and motivate the boys. Your achievement epitomized the can-do spirit of an Akwa Ibom person. You have made the state proud and that's why I identified with you, to show my little support and to encourage you to do more."

He also congratulated the team for recording their first ever CAF Champions League win against Algerian league Champions, CR Belouizdad in Uyo and presented another N1million to the team. The cheque presentation event which took place at Akwa United's camp in Uyo also saw members of the AK-Prosperity Team donating N2.2million to the team.

To encourage the team ahead of their trip to Algeria for the return leg of the CAF Champions League preliminary match, the Businessman then promised to give the team $20,000 if they beat CR Belouizdad in Algiers on Sunday September 19.

"If you go to Algeria and win, as you will be coming back, twenty thousand dollars will be waiting for you courtesy of me and my team, the prosperity group," the business tycoon announced.

Responding on behalf of the club, the Chairman, Elder Paul Bassey expressed gratitude to Obong Akan Udofia for his kind gesture and thanked him for identifying with the team, appealing to other well-meaning Akwa Ibomites to support the effort of the state government to make the team succeed.

Recall that in 2017, Udofia, offered the Super Eagles the sum of $20,000 for every goal scored in a FIFA World Cup qualifying cracker against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions in Yaounde. The match ended 1-1 and the money promised was given to the team.

Akwa Ibom state House of Assembly (AKHA) says it has commenced work on a bill for a law to prohibit open rearing and grazing of livestock and provide for the establishment of ranches and livestock administration, regulation and control and for other matters connected therewith which it says is still at the first reading stage. This was made known, Monday, September 13, at a public hearing organised by the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture, which was held at the Assembly complex, Sir Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo.

Declaring the public hearing open, the Hon. Speaker, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey represented by the House Leader and member, representing Oruk Anam state constituency, Sir Udo Kirian Akpan pointed out that the hearing is one of the most important hearings since the present 7th Assembly came on board, adding that it provides an avenue for livestock stakeholders to chart the way forward for open rearing and grazing, promote the production of healthy animal for consumption, guard against clashes between rearers and host communities and what should be done to regulate as well as guide the livestock farmers. He advised the stakeholders to abide by the resolution of the bill when passed to law.

Earlier in her remarks, the  Hon. commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, who appreciated the Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel for his passion and huge investments in the Agricultural sector of the state,  lauded the Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey-led 7th AKHA administration for its sterling leadership prowess as regards bill aimed at the promotion of Agriculture in the state and other bills. She noted that the objectives of the bill has captured the necessary areas. She added that the bill when passed into law will address the issues of conflict between crop farmers and cattle rearers, the mechanised way of managing a ranch and who is qualified to own a ranch and other important aspects affecting livestock farmers. While observing that the bill is important because it affects everyone directly or indirectly appealed to the participants to be unbiased when giving their inputs.

Also Speaking, the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources and Member, Ikono State Constituency, Honourable Asuquo Udoh stated that the bill seeks to manage the key issues of open rearing and grazing and also promote modern techniques of animal husbandry, promote jobs, investments and also reduce environmental pollution in the state. He urged the participants to feel free to make their submissions for the perfection of the bill.

Others who also spoke were, Barrister Godwin Umoh, Chairman AKHA Service Commission, Comrade Franklin Isong of the Civil Liberty Organisation of Nigeria, Professor Edet Udoh, Chairman, Technical Committee on Agriculture and Food Sufficiency and others.

Memoranda were received from the Chairman, Akwa Ibom state chapter of Cattle Dealers Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Muhammed, Chairman Arewa People's Assembly, Honourable Emmanuel Egbole and a representative of herdsmen resident in the state who jointly noted that the aim of their group is to foster the existing peace between headers, breeders and host communities.

They assured the committee that they will sensitize their group on the resolve of the bill to further promote the peace which the state is enjoying, stressing that no one is above the law.

Also at the event were, the member representing Etinan State Constituency, Rt. Honourable Dennis Akpan, Member Representing Essien Udim state constituency, Honourable Esse Umoh, Honourable Ifiok Udo, Member Nsit Ibom state constituency, Rt. Honourable Aniekan Uko, Member Ibesikpo/Asutan state constituency, Rt. Honourable David Lawrence, Member representing Eket state constituency, Honourable (Dr.) Charity Ido, Member, Ukanafun state constituency, Honourable KufreAbasi Edidem of Itu state constituency, Honourable Godwin Ekpo, Member for Ibiono Ibom state constituency, Member, Ini State Constituency, Rt. Honourable Emmanuel Bassey, Rt. Honourable Mark Esset, Member representing Nsit Atai state constituency, the Muslim community in Akwa Ibom , the Chairman of the State Central Abbatoir and other stakeholders in the livestock sector.

...Calls for expedited hearing of VAT, stamp duty suits

Former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has advised the National Assembly not to embark on any legislation over the collection of the Value Added Tax (VAT) and Stamp Duties, which are subjects of raging legal tussles between some states and the federal government, noting that allowing the litigations to run the full course could be a major step towards strengthening the nation’s federalism.

Ekweremadu, who recalled that he had for over a decade been warning the nation against what he had since termed a “feeding bottle federalism” in which states depend on redistributed resources of other federating units for survival, held that any constitution amendment to transfer VAT collection to the Exclusive Legislative List, as reportedly requested by the Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, would amount to changing the goal post in the middle of a game.

He bared his mind in a statement by his media adviser, Mr. Uche Anichukwu, on Sunday.

The lawmaker, who chaired the constitution amendment process in the Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Senate, asserted since past legislative efforts to get things right had failed or been scuttled, it was natural and imperative to allow the judiciary to play its role in shaping the nation’s federalism.

He said: “I commend Governors Nyesom Wike and Babajide Sanwo-Olu as well as the Rivers and Lagos Houses of Assembly for their courageous moves. It is by so doing that our constitution or laws can be tested and our federalism strengthened.

“In April 2012, I delivered a lecture at the Osgoode Hall Law School, York University, Canada, entitled ‘Nigerian Federalism: A Case for a Review’ wherein I forewarned that Nigeria would surely run into stormy economic weather unless we reinvented our federalism, steering the country away from a military-imposed ‘feeding bottle federalism’ to one predicated on self-reliance, hard work, enterprise, and resourcefulness to catalyse national development and economic prosperity. Many others have also made related calls. Unfortunately, few people were interested in what we were talking about.

“Although we achieved a number of successes, perhaps my worst experience at the helms of the constitution amendment process was in the Seventh Assembly. We recorded the most elaborate amendments to our constitution, including the rearrangement of the Legislative Lists to devolve more powers to the subnational governments by moving certain items like Aviation, Railway, Power, Stamp Duties, among others to the Concurrent Legislative List. Unfortunately, the amendments were denied assent by the President.

“But as a lawyer and lawmaker, I know that case law or judicial precedent, is also a veritable source of law. So, I think we should allow the Constitution and the laws of our land to be tested in the courts of law.

“It is untidy for the Presidency or its agency to come through the backdoor to seek legislative intervention in its favour on the same matter that is prejudice.

“The ball is now in the court of the judiciary and all we should seek at this juncture is an expedited and courageous adjudication of the lawsuits”.

Meanwhile, Ekweremadu, whose doctoral thesis is on Fiscal Federalism, has equally advised every state to look inwards to boost its revenues since every part of the country had what it takes to prosper.

“The bottom line of the raging tax ‘war’ is that having unwittingly killed industry, having elevated our nation to an oil dependent economy, and consequent upon the collapse of oil price amid other sources of energy, our economy is virtually collapsing, the naira has crashed to an all-time low, and the nation has come to rely more and more on taxes. Inevitably, some states have now begun to question some practices they feel fly in the face of federalism and justice, among them the collection and distribution of VAT and other taxes.

“VAT is essentially a consumption tax and what states like Rivers and Lagos are saying in essence is that the federal government cannot continue to rob them of taxes paid on goods and services consumed in their states, some with environmental and social consequences that they have to deal with, but only to withhold as well as transfer a large chunk of such revenues to other states.

“The major takeaway from our ailing economy, collapse of the naira, and the VAT and stamp duty imbroglio is that our feeding bottle strand of federalism is no longer sustainable. We must diversify and expand our economy now; and there is no other way than to remake our federalism to enable states to harness and unleash their endowments and comparative advantages.

“Rather than begrudge states like Rivers and Lagos, all federating units should be encouraged and enabled to look inwards to reinvent themselves, boosting their respective competitiveness through improved security, human capital development, industry, and building of egalitarian and cosmopolitan societies to attract more investments and economically viable populations. That is how federations are meant to function”, he concluded.

The member Representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in Nigeria's House of Representatives, Rep. Unyime Idem has been honoured as the Best Lawmaker in the history of the federal constituency by Lions Club.

Presenting the award, the leader of the delegation, Lion Unwana Akpan said the honour was due to Rep. Idem's outstanding contributions towards humanitarian service, community development and sponsorship of quality bills and motions. He said Rep. Idem has impacted his federal constituency in so short a time.

Responding, Rep. Idem thanked Lions Club for the honour done him and promised to do more to push the human race forward.

He dedicated the award to the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency

Media Unit
Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency

President Muhammadu Buhari waives #13bn taxes Air Peace was supposed to pay following the acquisition of 13 brand new aircraft from Brazil.

Air Peace said it has saved #13 billion on its 13 new aircraft due to the duty waiver granted by the federal government.

Me: Thank you Mr. President for doing the right thing. Air Peace should be declared Nigeria's National Carrier.

Governor Udom Emmanuel has described the current Revenue sharing formula as not being in favour of States who shoulder bulk of the responsibilities. He called on the Federal Government to review upwards the revenue allocation to states in order to improve the economic growth and enhance industrialization in the country.

Governor Emmanuel made this known while receiving a team from the Revenue Mobilization Allocation/Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) on a sensitization visit led by the Federal Commissioner, Hon. Sunday Ayang, on Wednesday, at Government House, Uyo.

The governor urged them to reflect on the major challenges of the states in their input and work towards its implementation to further assist states tackle pending financial issues.

“Let me appreciate this call to my office, some of the grey areas and concerns you have pointed out, please I want to appeal that this should be an exercise that will yield results.

"Honestly the current sharing formula is not helping matters at all especially we in the oil producing areas, what you sign into law from the center is also a major problem, how can you say that a community will take only 3% from the proceeds of the NNPC and it’s generating a lot of heat here but we are trying to manage that.

"Irrespective of going round we all submitted the memoranda of PIB nothing was taken into consideration.

"So I hope this won’t be a similar exercise and that what we contribute will be taken into consideration. What we should do should help build and unite the country, coordinate economic activities for our growth and for the interest of everybody so that we can leave at peace.

"I welcome you to the state, be rest assured you will have all our cooperation and the exercise will go smoothly please let it be an exercise that will yield success and not another fruitless labour you are embarking on ’’, the governor stated.

The governor pointed out that the state does not receive revenue from the large gas reserve, VAT from International Oil Companies IOC operating in the state.

“Gas is a major issue, I can’t be a state that sits on the largest quantum of gas in this country and I am not getting anything. 36.1% of Oil and Gas reserve of Nigeria is in Akwa Ibom State and I am not getting anything from gas, so how is it computed, there is something wrong somewhere, it is wrongly computed.

"These are raw data that can be verified anywhere. Now there is another controversy of VAT, all VAT from these IOCs where are they paying them to, they are not paying them to us, so there are many things you should look at and develop for the federal government.

"So VAT from IOCs, from oil and gas should actually go to the states these things are produced”.

The State Chief Executive called on the federal government to review the revenue allocation of the state to address the issue of population increase, marine security along the coastal lines, erosion menace to reduce the burden of the state government.

In his remarks, the team leader from Revenue Mobilization Allocation/Fiscal Commission and Federal Commissioner Representing Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Sunday Ayang, stated that the purpose of the visit was to sensitize Akwa Ibom people on the review of sharing formula between the Federal, States and Local governments, where stakeholders will send in their inputs to capture grey areas.

According to Ayang, the constitution makes provision for the exercise to be carried out in 5 years to further improve on revenue among the three tiers of government, noting that the team is working towards presenting memoranda before President Muhammadu Buhari for assessment and necessary actions.

"It is an honour to be here Your Excellency to discuss matters of revenue allocation formula review, the primary purpose of our visit is to sensitize the people in the state of the fact that Revenue Mobilization Allocation/Fiscal Commission is embarking on an exercise to review vertical formula of sharing the allocation revenue the three tiers of government’’.

Media Unit
Govt House, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State
02/09/21

These are indeed interesting times in Nigeria as there seem to be some disillusionment by citizens on the Buhari led APC government. It has been tale of woes, hunger poverty, insecurity and death.

While still basking in the mixed feeling of Mr. President signing Petroleum Industry Act into law amidst protest from Niger Delta Region, NNPC, Nigeria’s premier oil proprietor, sent cold shivers across the nation by announcing that it has made profit of 287 billion naira after 44 years.

Ordinarily, Nigerians should be happy that NNPC has declared profit and it means that the Firm has gone back to winning ways after decades of plundering our common patrimony.
But wait a minute; could this be true that a firm that for 44 years has not made profit, could post a whooping 287 billion?

According to SBM Report posted in August 2021, NNPC incurred a loss of N473.3billion while operating its moribund refineries between January 2015 and February 2021. The refineries as at August 1, 2021, operated at a capacity of 6.7%. NNPC posted a loss of 803 billion as at 2018.

On 19 April 2021, it was reported that the total revenue generated by the NNPC from crude oil and gas exports plunged by 45.98 per cent in 2020 amid the COVID-19-induced collapse in price and demand.

The report said Nigeria’s revenue from the exports of crude oil and gas fell to $2.62bn in 2020 from $4.85bn in 2019. Also, proceeds from the sale of domestic crude oil and gas also dropped to N1.54tn in 2020 from N1.57tn in 2019.

What magic did NNPC perform to have wiped off all the above losses to record a profit of 287 billion? I am really smelling a rat here unless NNPC proves otherwise.

What of the allegation that NNPC dipped its fingers in the Federation Cookie Jar in order to announce bumper 2020 profits? It is common knowledge that NNPC and state governors have been at loggerheads over shortfall in remittances to the federation accounts. Could it be that the said funds is what NNPC has posted as profit for 2020, a period that was ravaged by COVID-19 pandemic and businesses operated at a loss?

Doe this new profit has a thing to do with the newly signed Petroleum Industry Act? The ACT permits NNPC to retain 30% of its profit for oil exploration in the frontier basin of the North. Assuming the ACT is applied today, it means NNPC will retain over 86 billion naira of the 287 billion profits.

While I wish NNPC the best in posting more profit to better the lot of Nigerians, the Company should come clean and publish details of all dividends received by them and tell us which ones they recently diverted from the Federation to themselves. The NNPC Group should publish the subsidiary and its activities that produced this huge profit margin.

Aluu Vincent, a Policy Scientist and PhD Student is the Publisher, Naija Eye Witness News

These are indeed interesting times in Nigeria as there seem to be some disillusionment by citizens on the Buhari led APC government. It has been tale of woes, hunger poverty, insecurity and death.
While still basking in the mixed feeling of Mr. President signing Petroleum Industry Act into law amidst protest from Niger Delta Region, NNPC, Nigeria’s premier oil proprietor, sent cold shivers across the nation by announcing that it has made profit of 287 billion naira after 44 years.
Ordinarily, Nigerians should be happy that NNPC has declared profit and it means that the Firm has gone back to winning ways after decades of plundering our common patrimony.
But wait a minute; could this be true that a firm that for 44 years has not made profit, could post a whooping 287 billion?
According to SBM Report posted in August 2021, NNPC incurred a loss of N473.3billion while operating its moribund refineries between January 2015 and February 2021. The refineries as at August 1, 2021, operated at a capacity of 6.7%. NNPC posted a loss of 803 billion as at 2018.
On 19 April 2021, it was reported that the total revenue generated by the NNPC from crude oil and gas exports plunged by 45.98 per cent in 2020 amid the COVID-19-induced collapse in price and demand.
The report said Nigeria’s revenue from the exports of crude oil and gas fell to $2.62bn in 2020 from $4.85bn in 2019. Also, proceeds from the sale of domestic crude oil and gas also dropped to N1.54tn in 2020 from N1.57tn in 2019.
What magic did NNPC perform to have wiped off all the above losses to record a profit of 287 billion? I am really smelling a rat here unless NNPC proves otherwise.
What of the allegation that NNPC dipped its fingers in the Federation Cookie Jar in order to announce bumper 2020 profits? It is common knowledge that NNPC and state governors have been at loggerheads over shortfall in remittances to the federation accounts. Could it be that the said funds is what NNPC has posted as profit for 2020, a period that was ravaged by COVID-19 pandemic and businesses operated at a loss?
Doe this new profit has a thing to do with the newly signed Petroleum Industry Act? The ACT permits NNPC to retain 30% of its profit for oil exploration in the frontier basin of the North. Assuming the ACT is applied today, it means NNPC will retain over 86 billion naira of the 287 billion profits.

While I wish NNPC the best in posting more profit to better the lot of Nigerians, the Company should come clean and publish details of all dividends received by them and tell us which ones they recently diverted from the Federation to themselves. The NNPC Group should publish the subsidiary and its activities that produced this huge profit margin.

Aluu Vincent, a Policy Scientist and PhD Student is the Publisher, Naija Eye Witness News

Leadership is in Performance and not office.

By Aluu Vincent

Leadership is not in the office occupied but it is in knowing the way, showing the way, going the way and helping your people to find their feet in life.

Deputy Chairman Communications Committee and member Representing Ukanafun abd Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem has shown capacity, competence and the fact that government can indeed work depending on who is in charge.

Within just two years as a first term Federal Lawmaker, Idem has

1. Sponsored 16 Bills

2. 14 Motions

3. Initiated and completed 26 life touching projects/programmes

4. Initiated skills empowerment for 5000 constituents - 1000 were empowered in December 2020, 1500 will be empowered in December 2021, another 1500 in 2022 and the remaining 1000 in December 2023.

5. Sponsored construction of Digital laboratory in Akwa Ibom state University, Obio Okpa Campus

6. Initiated the process of digitizing education in the federal constituency - commissioned 4 nos digital centres with each equipped with 40 computer sets, internet and other digital resources in rural schools

7. Developed social pact with the people, displayed highest level of social maturity and emotional intelligence.

Rep. Unyime Idem, please take a bow

From the Archives

Bravo, Rep. Unyime Idem, member representing Ukanafun and Oruk Anam federal constituency. You have proven that government can work depending on who is in charge.
First, you were the first to visit the deceased family immediately you came back from Abuja and lent a helping hand.
Second, you promised to ensure justice is done. I know the calls you made and messages you sent out seeking support for the family.
Third, a day after your visit to the family, you raised a matter of urgent public importance on the floor of the Green Chambers seeking expeditious treatment of the murder case.
The House was unanimous in its resolutions as your requests were granted.
1.IGP has been asked to take over the matter.
2.The family of the deceased will enjoy police protection.
3.A minute silence was held in honour of late Iniubong.
This is commendably commendable; it shows how proactive, empathic and tenacious you are about the welfare of your constituents.
Proud of you.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/.../iniubong-umorens-killing.../ Iniubong Umoren’s killing: Reps mandate IGP to take over investigation, prosecution of suspects

Nigerians who have been groaning under heavy taxation, indiscriminate tariff hike by DSTV and other Satellite Broadcast Service Providers, may soon smile and heave a sigh of relief as bill seeking to amend the National Broadcasting Commission Act, 2014 and empower it to regulate tariff, has passed second reading.

The sponsor of the Bill, Deputy Chairman Communications Committee and member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem, has sought the leave of the House to among other things, extend the powers of the National Broadcasting Commission to regulate and review the tariff being charged by the Digital Satellite Television Services and other Broadcasting outfits in Nigeria and their subscription policy. It is believed that the Bill when passed into law will encourage liberal, open and favourable competition in the industry. It also believed the bill will encourage the creative industry, create jobs and encourage local players to participate in the digital broadcast sector.

Leading debate on the Bill, Rep Idem noted that “Nigerians have witnessed tremendous harrowing and continuous hardship in the hands of the Digital Satellite Television Providers over the years ranging from incessant increment in the cost of services arbitrarily without recourse to the regulatory agencies, to randomly changing policies without the guidance and direction of the Commission or any other body set up by the Federal Government”. He urged his colleagues to support the Bill for the sake of impoverished Nigerians who have no other means of challenging the high handedness and arbitrariness of DSTV and others on issues of subscription policy and tariff. The Bill which received overwhelming support from Lawmakers was read for the second time referred to the Committee on Information and Communication Technology for more action.

Recall that on April 9, 2020, Rep. Idem was appointed Chairman Ad-hoc committee by the House of Representatives, to investigate the Non-implementation of Pay-As-You-Go in the broadcast industry. The Committee swung into action immediately and made a lot of discoveries in the process, the report of which has been submitted to the House for further legislative action. Part of the discoveries of the Committee was that the NBC as it is presently constituted lacks the powers to call the Digital Satellite Television Service Providers to order in a situation whereby there is a breach in subscription policy and tariff.

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; He shall not stand before mean men. Prov. 22:29

Nigeria is blessed with entrepreneurially minded individuals who have risen from crass poverty to sheer prosperity; those who have parlayed influence into affluence and those who fell off a cliff and built a plane on their way down. They are energetic and enthusiastic, uncompromising, yet realistic; impossibility has no space in their lexicons. With just tenacity of purpose and a strong devotion to their dreams, they bestride, successfully, the gap between creativity and commerce. These men transform sand to gold and water to wine. One of such persons who fits into the above description is the phenomenal Magnus Nnaemeka Chukwuekezie, Divisional Head, Keystone Bank Limited and Chairman, Everyday Group.

From banking and cold room services, distribution and restaurant, Magnus protean productivity and impeccable business acumen, spotting goldmine where many see landmines, have set him apart from the crowd. He embodies so much of what makes perfection an onerous yet enviable attribute. He is a very savvy banker and serial entrepreneur laced with imaginative visionary. But none of that influences his personal estimation of his competence and self-worth; despite his competency and acclaim, he affects a humble poise.

William Shakespeare, the legendary author of Twelfth Night Epic Novel had Magnus in mind when he said, “some are born great, some achieve greatness while some have greatness thrust upon them”. Although not born great, Mr. Magnus has been able to surmount challenges of life to not only achieve greatness, but has become greatness personified. He has become a mentor and an inspiration to many through his life story.
Lau Zou, the Chinese Poet said, “the journey of a mile begins with a step” The journey to what has become one of the most astounding business success stories around began when Magnus moved to Uyo Akwa Ibom State as a young banker with Citizens Bank. He has over 20 years cognate experience in banking and has handled several managerial roles at the branch and regional levels. He started his banking career with the defunct Citizens bank in August 2000. From Citizens Bank, he moved to Assurance Bank PLC. Due to issues of bank recapitalisation, Assurance bank went under and young Magnus was out of job for months but he was not out of ideas on the next move.

The best way to not feel hopeless is to get up and do something. Don’t wait for good things to happen to you. If you go out and make some good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, you will fill yourself with hope. Magnus understood the import of the above statement hence he never allowed his unemployed status to deter him. He used his N700,000 savings to start a business through the help of Elder Ubong Obot, MD/CEO of Ubotex Nigeria Limited who traded with the money and was making returns of N80,000 monthly to Magnus.

According to Magnus, “I gave my little savings to Ubotex who engaged the funds to buy and sell cement. I was receiving N80,000 every month. I said waoh, if I am receiving this much when I am not directly involved in the business, what will happen if I am the one doing the business myself. This got me thinking. I was trapped between getting another banking job or go into business with the funds I have realised. I decided to get another banking job. God helped me to join FCMB in 2005”.

Young Magnus decided to save 5 months of his salary in his new place of work; denied himself certain luxuries for the period and was able to raise money enough to purchase a parcel of land at Umoren Street which would later serve as headquarters of Everyday Group of companies.
Magnus knows that the future depends on what we do in the present. He also had the sayings of Martin Luther King Jnr in mind who said “If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michaelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well”. Magnus committed himself to becoming a sought-after banker. From FCMB, he was headhunted to former Bank PHB and later UBA PLC. He was to later serve as Regional Manager in United Bank for Africa from June 2013 to June 2016. I need not tell you that he carted away all known banking awards, promotions and reward. I need not also tell you he helped the bank to grow in balance sheet, customer base, and meeting the financial needs of the public. Through dint of hard work, zeal and a determination to make a difference, Magnus has risen to an enviable height as the Divisional Head of Keystone Bank Limited, in charge of Akwa Ibom and Cross River.

Aside banking, Magnus Chukwuekezie has cut his teeth in the business world as a serial entrepreneur. While plying his trade as a banker, the Inyi-Enugu born chartered accountant had eyes for business. The need to secure a better future led him into founding Everyday Group Conglomerate. Founded in 2009, its strategic objective is to create a widely acceptable brand known through passionate and superior customer service delivery. Like a mustard seed, Everyday Group started at Umoren Street as a Cold-room with interest in sales of icefish to traders in Akpan Andem and neighbouring markets. Later he added sales of biscuits in wholesale and later noodles. Today, the small seed of Everyday Group has grown into a successful conglomerate with interests in restaurant, cold room services and distributorship for major food and beverage firms. The Group is into marketing and distribution for Nestle, Olam, Suntory, and Procter & Gamble. The products include Maggi, Golden Mourn, Nescafe, Milo, Cherie Noodles, Tasty Tom Tomatoes, OK Biscuits, Fresh Yo, Lucozade boost, Ribena, Ariel, Oral B, Safeguard, Gillette, etc. The Group also provides Cold Room Services and runs Quick Service Restaurants.

On the flipside, Magnus Chukwuekezie, has not lost sight of the fact that when he helps people, it means he has done something to help them move forward. He has helped scores to succeed while volunteering his shoulders for young Nigerians to climb and find their feet in life. Through Everyday Group, Magnus has provided jobs and wealth for more than 300 Nigerians. He has also created a mentorship platform to train young Nigerians with interest in entrepreneurship. He has constantly given back to society by putting smiles on the faces of many and goes about planting trees not knowing who will seek shelter underneath them.

Interestingly, the life of Magnus Chukwuekezie remains a challenge to many having defied all odds inclusive of a childhood incident to rise to the pinnacle of his profession and passion.
He also once smiled at me saying, “Vincent, never stop fighting until you arrive at your destined place – that is, the unique you. Have an aim in life, continuously acquire knowledge, work hard, and have perseverance to realise the great life. Forget about what people say about you. It does not change the colour of your skin”. I have learnt from Magnus Chukwuekezie’s life journey that success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do. I have also learnt from him that the difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack in will to dare.

Born in Inyi, Oji-River LGA of Enugu State on July 27, 1973, Magnus is the 2nd of six male children of Mazi Emmanuel and Mrs. Theresa Chukwuekezie. He obtained FSLC from Premier School, Alum Inyi and WASC from Model Comprehensive Boys Secondary School, Inyi. He proceeded to the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accountancy. As is the tradition, he embarked on his compulsory one-year youth service in Port Harcourt, River State. Upon completion of his NYSC, Magnus was honoured as the Corper of the Year in 2000 and was handed a cash prize of 50,000.

Not done with acquisition of knowledge, young Magnus returned to his alma mater and capped his inquisitive mind with a Masters of Business Administration Degree in Accountancy and Banking and Finance. He is presently warming up to wear the crown of Doctoral Degree (PhD) in Accounting from the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered). He is married to Nneka and they are blessed with three girls; Magna, Grace and Maricel, and a boy; Emmanuel.

Deacon Vincent Aluu, is the Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News

It is better we start crying ohhhh. Keeping quiet will embolden the man to continue to desecrate our land.

Nellyvin:
By Deacon Aluu Vincent

Constitutional breach is a very worrisome trend sweeping through the length and breadth of Nigeria. It is more worrisome because it is coming from the very Leader who should lead by example. Disregard for the laws of any land is a threat to democracy as breaches of provisions of the constitution undermines organs and institutions of state. While he took oath to safeguard and defend the constitution of the Federal Republic, the President has in reality embark on selective and wanton violations of its provisions.
The rate at which the President offends the sensibility of Nigerians through constant breach and disregard for the constitution, the laws of the land, has become a source of serious worry to right thinking Nigerians. Alas, we have a president who has failed to live above personal examples of leadership.

The rule of law is so valuable that it limits the arbitrary power of those in authority. It ensures that everything is done based on the law. It encapsulates such ideals as government according to the law, equality before the law and the independence, autonomy of the judiciary among others. to guide the excesses of man and constantly put him in check. Unfortunately, we have a President, who care less about what the law says and what the people feel about him.

In 2018, during an NBA General Conference, Mr. President said that national security and interest was superior to rule of law. Such comment can come from a leader who lacks proper understanding of the meaning of rule of law and democracy. Incidentally, it is this mindset that the President has cultivated while dealing with issues of governance.

This non-regard for the laws of the land has led to fundamental breaches of provisions of the 1999 constitution chief among whom are:
1. The purported suspension of Chief Justice of Nigeria from Office, Walter Onoghen on January 25, 2019.
2. The illegal purchase of the TUCANO Aircrafts in April 2018 for $496 million without approval of the National Assembly contrary to section 80 (3) and (4) of the 1999 constitution as amended.
3. Disregard for court orders in the case of Col. Sambo Dasuki, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky all granted bails but the President insisted he will not release them.
4. The approval of $1 Billion for Military expenditures before approaching the National Assembly.
5. Executive Order 006 on preservation of Suspicious Assets and related Schedules permitting security agencies to freeze assets of persons standing trial without recourse to the courts thus usurping the legislative and judicial powers of the National Assembly and Judiciary under sections 4 and 6 of the 1999 constitutions.
6. The President did the same shenanigan by flouting sections 2, section 12 (1&2) of the NDDC ACT and appointed an Interim Management and later Sole Administrator. Where exactly in the NDDC do we have provisions for IMC or Sole Administrator? Perhaps Mr. President has his own version of the NDDC ACT.

Interestingly too, the last few days has seen the President committing constitutional abracadabra. First, he appointed service chiefs who commenced duty without recourse to the National Assembly. When the backlash became unbearable, he remembered that he was supposed to send request for appointment to the Legislature. He placed the cart before the horse by not seeking legislative approval before replacing his military chiefs. This runs foul of sections 218 (1,2,4) (a&b). Also, a 2013 yet to be challenged judgment described the appointments of service chiefs without the concurrence of the National Assembly as illegal and unconstitutional.

A day ago, or so, the President flouted the laws of the land by extending for three months the tenure of the Inspector General of Police, Muhammed Adamu, whose tenure elapsed on February 1, 2021 on account of attaining mandatory 35 years of service. This has led to series of backlash to a government reputed for breaking laws. The President cited the needed for proper hand over as reason for extending the tenure. This is the lamest excuse I have heard in recent times. Was the President not aware that Adamu’s tenure was coming to and end? Was the Police Service Commission or Minister of Police Affairs not also aware that there was going to be a constitutional logjam should Adamu stay in office beyond his constitutional term limit? Is it that the barber is inefficient or that the tools are not sharp?

Section 215 and 216 of the 1999 constitution as amended provides modalities for appointment of the Inspector General of Police. Part 111 of the Police ACT states clearly the mode of appointment, removal, functions, and powers of the Inspector General of Police. Sections 5&6 states that the Inspector General shall only be removed from office by the President on the advice of the Police Council. It also states that the person appointed to the office of the IGP shall hold office for 4 years subject to the provisions of clause 18( of the ACT. As it stands, in the eye of the law, there is no Inspector General of Police. What we have is a retired IGP illegally occupying the Office.

If these quoted provisions are alien to the President, he should do Nigerians the favour of explaining where he got the powers from to make such appointments. Interestingly, Nigeria has a President who has since abdicated his duties to a cabal called the Presidency. He has not deemed it needful to even address Nigerians directly on national issues. It has always been either through recorded telecast or through proxy.

In all of these, the silence of the National Assembly, the body charged with the responsibility to make laws, is troubling and sends danger signals to the effect that it is seen as a rubber stamp and toothless bulldog. The law-making body whose rights and privileges are being trampled upon are not saying or doing anything about it. But if the matter has to do with sharing exchanging blows on the floor of the chambers, they will be alive and kicking. They seem to be enjoying the game of constitutional breaches so long as it favours them. This is totally unacceptable and must be nipped in the bud. The National Assembly has critical role to play in safeguarding our democracy and must be seen to be doing so.

When few weeks ago, a sitting US president incited a section of the population to commit insurrection, Congress rose in defence of the US constitution irrespective of political party affiliation. The outgone President was impeached for abusing his office.

Democracy thrives when institutions rather than individuals are strengthened and made to perform optimally. Successful democracies are creating impact because institutions are designed and allowed to keep leaders in check. The case is different in Nigeria where the occupier of the office dictates the tone for the institution. It is high time; relevant institutions stood to their feet and do the right thing for the sake of Nigerians. It is high time the President be told in unambiguous terms of his many sins and the attendant consequences. A stitch in time we are told saves nine.

Deacon Aluu Vincent, Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State, Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News.

By Deacon Aluu Vincent

Constitutional breach is a very worrisome trend sweeping through the length and breadth of Nigeria. It is more worrisome because it is coming from the very Leader who should lead by example. Disregard for the laws of any land is a threat to democracy as breaches of provisions of the constitution undermines organs and institutions of state. While he took oath to safeguard and defend the constitution of the Federal Republic, the President has in reality embark on selective and wanton violations of its provisions.
The rate at which the President offends the sensibility of Nigerians through constant breach and disregard for the constitution, the laws of the land, has become a source of serious worry to right thinking Nigerians. Alas, we have a president who has failed to live above personal examples of leadership.

The rule of law is so valuable that it limits the arbitrary power of those in authority. It ensures that everything is done based on the law. It encapsulates such ideals as government according to the law, equality before the law and the independence, autonomy of the judiciary among others. to guide the excesses of man and constantly put him in check. Unfortunately, we have a President, who care less about what the law says and what the people feel about him.

In 2018, during an NBA General Conference, Mr. President said that national security and interest was superior to rule of law. Such comment can come from a leader who lacks proper understanding of the meaning of rule of law and democracy. Incidentally, it is this mindset that the President has cultivated while dealing with issues of governance.

This non-regard for the laws of the land has led to fundamental breaches of provisions of the 1999 constitution chief among whom are:
1. The purported suspension of Chief Justice of Nigeria from Office, Walter Onoghen on January 25, 2019.
2. The illegal purchase of the TUCANO Aircrafts in April 2018 for $496 million without approval of the National Assembly contrary to section 80 (3) and (4) of the 1999 constitution as amended.
3. Disregard for court orders in the case of Col. Sambo Dasuki, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky all granted bails but the President insisted he will not release them.
4. The approval of $1 Billion for Military expenditures before approaching the National Assembly.
5. Executive Order 006 on preservation of Suspicious Assets and related Schedules permitting security agencies to freeze assets of persons standing trial without recourse to the courts thus usurping the legislative and judicial powers of the National Assembly and Judiciary under sections 4 and 6 of the 1999 constitutions.
6. The President did the same shenanigan by flouting sections 2, section 12 (1&2) of the NDDC ACT and appointed an Interim Management and later Sole Administrator. Where exactly in the NDDC do we have provisions for IMC or Sole Administrator? Perhaps Mr. President has his own version of the NDDC ACT.

Interestingly too, the last few days has seen the President committing constitutional abracadabra. First, he appointed service chiefs who commenced duty without recourse to the National Assembly. When the backlash became unbearable, he remembered that he was supposed to send request for appointment to the Legislature. He placed the cart before the horse by not seeking legislative approval before replacing his military chiefs. This runs foul of sections 218 (1,2,4) (a&b). Also, a 2013 yet to be challenged judgment described the appointments of service chiefs without the concurrence of the National Assembly as illegal and unconstitutional.

A day ago, or so, the President flouted the laws of the land by extending for three months the tenure of the Inspector General of Police, Muhammed Adamu, whose tenure elapsed on February 1, 2021 on account of attaining mandatory 35 years of service. This has led to series of backlash to a government reputed for breaking laws. The President cited the needed for proper hand over as reason for extending the tenure. This is the lamest excuse I have heard in recent times. Was the President not aware that Adamu’s tenure was coming to and end? Was the Police Service Commission or Minister of Police Affairs not also aware that there was going to be a constitutional logjam should Adamu stay in office beyond his constitutional term limit? Is it that the barber is inefficient or that the tools are not sharp?

Section 215 and 216 of the 1999 constitution as amended provides modalities for appointment of the Inspector General of Police. Part 111 of the Police ACT states clearly the mode of appointment, removal, functions, and powers of the Inspector General of Police. Sections 5&6 states that the Inspector General shall only be removed from office by the President on the advice of the Police Council. It also states that the person appointed to the office of the IGP shall hold office for 4 years subject to the provisions of clause 18( of the ACT. As it stands, in the eye of the law, there is no Inspector General of Police. What we have is a retired IGP illegally occupying the Office.

If these quoted provisions are alien to the President, he should do Nigerians the favour of explaining where he got the powers from to make such appointments. Interestingly, Nigeria has a President who has since abdicated his duties to a cabal called the Presidency. He has not deemed it needful to even address Nigerians directly on national issues. It has always been either through recorded telecast or through proxy.

In all of these, the silence of the National Assembly, the body charged with the responsibility to make laws, is troubling and sends danger signals to the effect that it is seen as a rubber stamp and toothless bulldog. The law-making body whose rights and privileges are being trampled upon are not saying or doing anything about it. But if the matter has to do with sharing exchanging blows on the floor of the chambers, they will be alive and kicking. They seem to be enjoying the game of constitutional breaches so long as it favours them. This is totally unacceptable and must be nipped in the bud. The National Assembly has critical role to play in safeguarding our democracy and must be seen to be doing so.

When few weeks ago, a sitting US president incited a section of the population to commit insurrection, Congress rose in defence of the US constitution irrespective of political party affiliation. The outgone President was impeached for abusing his office.

Democracy thrives when institutions rather than individuals are strengthened and made to perform optimally. Successful democracies are creating impact because institutions are designed and allowed to keep leaders in check. The case is different in Nigeria where the occupier of the office dictates the tone for the institution. It is high time; relevant institutions stood to their feet and do the right thing for the sake of Nigerians. It is high time the President be told in unambiguous terms of his many sins and the attendant consequences. A stitch in time we are told saves nine.

Deacon Aluu Vincent, Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State, Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News.

By Kingsley Moghalu

Searching for something on my mobile phone, I came across this photograph. It sent me into memory lane.
With a sense of loss I remember my mentor, friend and boss of all time, the great Kofi Annan, Nobel Laureate, former Secretary-General of the United Nations. Here we were after a very warm one-hour meeting at his office at the Kofi Annan Foundation in Geneva in January 2018, a few weeks before I announced my candidacy in Nigeria’s 2019 presidential election. He strongly encouraged me to run for president, saying Africa needed a new generation of leaders.

We joked about how ageless he was, as I reminded him he hadn’t changed one bit from ours days in the mid-1990s when he was my direct boss as Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations and I was the Political Affairs Officer in the Africa Division handling conflict resolution and the rebuilding of failed states in then war-torn Rwanda, Angola and Somalia.
Kofi mentored me and had a soft spot for me as a rising young African UN officer in those days. He and I also happened to be residential neighbors on Roosevelt Island in New York. We often rode the tram together from the island over the river to 59th Street, and would hit the pavement on foot to our office at UN Headquarters (he hated driving and much preferred to walk - this was before he was elected Secretary-General and protocol required he had to be chauffeured!) We his staff all called him by his first name Kofi as he preferred but, again, when he became the Secretary-General, protocol forced us to adapt to “Mr. Secretary- General”.

When rumors began to swirl that he was a strong possibility to replace the Egyptian Boutros-Boutros Ghali as SG, he seemed an unlikely candidate to the less informed. He was not a typical African politician or a Minister of Foreign Affairs as was the typical profile (in other words he did not have the diplomatic equivalent of “grassroots structure” but was more of a technocrat. ) But I knew he was certain to win, for several reasons, not least of which was that times were changing. UN reform, in which Annan as SG was later to offer me a significant role with an appointment as a member of the High Level Redesign Panel on the UN Internal Justice System in 2006, was the talk of the day. There was a yearning in some global powerful quarters for more of technocratic successor to reform the organization and solve practical problems than a strong politician like Boutros - Boutros Ghali.
The imperial “ BBG” as the reigning Secretary-General was referred to, and who wanted a second term Washington increasingly seemed determined to veto, was quick to deliver a preemptive strike that was clearly intended to weaken Annan’s chances. Boutros-Ghali attempted to “exile” Kofi with an appointment as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the Former Yugoslavia.

As often happens in life, what was intended for other reasons became a huge opportunity. First, the western powers prevailed on BBG to limit Annan’s absence on this assignment to four months to ensure he returned to UNHQ in New York soon. But the assignment actually gave Annan massive hands-on international diplomatic exposure in a theatre of war in the Balkans, reputed to be “the graveyard of diplomats”. He excelled. Operating in the close sight of the European nations and impressing them with his skills, Annan’s potential candidacy became a Fait accompli.
Immediately Annan arrived in Zagreb, Croatia, he sent a message that he wanted yours truly to be sent down from New York to Zagreb as his Special Assistant. I was thrilled and honored! But there was just one problem: my wife was pregnant with our first child and was very close to delivery. We did not have any help at home as such hired help was too expensive.

Forced to choose between this request and my wife, I chose my responsibility to my wife. I sent Annan a note thanking him for his kind invitation and what a privilege it was for me. But I was in a bind with my personal situation. He replied that he wasn’t aware of my wife’s pregnancy and if he had been, he would not have asked. I should stay and tend to my wife at a time like this, he said.

Years later when, after my assignment in Geneva at The Global Fund and later resigning from the UN to start my own risk management consulting firm in the same city, I was appointed Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, my cell phone rang one day at work. “Dr. Moghalu? The female European voice inquired. “Yes” I replied. “Please hold on for Mr. Kofi Annan from Geneva” she said (he had by now completed two terms as UN head and retired to Geneva, where he established the headquarters of the Kofi Annan Foundation.) “Congratulations, Kingsley”, he told me, and offered some advice as I could feel his typical smile and twinkling eyes even over the phone.

Naturally, I wasn’t going to do something as “heavy” as running to be elected President of Nigeria without consulting my boss, mentor and friend. On this day as we talked intimately in Geneva, he was as fit as a fiddle. A few months later, he was gone, aged 80.
Nostalgia overwhelms as I write. Adieu, Kofi Annan. A great world leader, a great African, a great son of Ghana. My boss of all bosses. I learnt much from you.

Kingsley Moghalu
Ifek’ego Nnewi

From the Desk of Nigeria's next President

“What makes a leader successful is his ability to reproduce his kind who will take over from him when he is gone”. Vincent (2021).
Retirement is a must for every Leader! When the time is ripe, you will leave the stage for others to take charge. Know that nothing lasts forever; even the Hausa perfume has expiry date. It is law of nature that our lives are in times and seasons. Who have you groomed or mentored to take over from you, support and take care of you when you retire?
Ophrah Winfrey said, “A mentor is one who see the hope inside yourself” What most leaders do is to spoon feed, that is giving your fish instead of teaching you how to fish. Forster says (2020) says, “Spoon feeding instead of mentorship in the long run, teaches us nothing but the shape of the spoon”. What makes a leader successful is his ability to reproduce his kind who will take over from him when he is gone. Obongowo, do you fit into the above picture of a mentor?
Remember Elijah in the bible; He groomed Elisha who got double of he, Elijah’s spirit. 2Kings 2:13-15. Paul the Apostle also raised Timothy.
Have you heard of the Babangida Boys before? My o my, he gave young men and women opportunities to display their talents. Until today, they are proud he was their mentor. Tinubu Boys are everywhere in Nigeria manning one office or the other. He gave them a space to prove their worth. Today, he has Governors, Ministers, Speakers, Lawmakers, Managers of the Economy to his credit.
Are you aware that Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holding for the past 10 years has been grooming 1000 young Africans each year and giving then 5000 Dollars to start any business of their choice? Remember Odogwu Magnus Chukwukezie, the quintessential banker, serial entrepreneur and owner of Everyday Fish? That has mentorship and philanthropy running in his DNA.
The late Professor Okon Edet Uyo groomed Prof. Ini Udoka, Senator Dr. Sandy Onoh and many others. I am proud to have learnt at the feet of this great Akwa Ibom son who always took me to his sturdy for some lessons. May his soul rest on, amen.
What of the Akpabio Boys; the story is not different. Some of you answering Obongowo today benefitted from Senator Akpabio’s munificence and platform. But not for him you would have either been struggling to survive in your village or eking a living somewhere outside Uyo.
There are other shining examples of mentors in Akwa Ibom State that I admire a lot. Rep. Unyime Idem, member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency recently initiated skills empowerment for 5000 youths in his bid to help raise the next generation of youths who will become job and wealth creators, self-sufficient and independent. Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey, set up the RHAB-YESS to support young businesses every month with N500,000.
Do you know the 37-year-old Comr. Ini Ememobong, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Strategy? Men, that guy is damn good. He picked up few guys including Borono Bassey; groomed Borono, ensured he discovered his mission in life and even sponsored him to take some professional courses (self-development). He took his name to the authorities that be for recommendation. On leaving PDP as Publicity Secretary, Timi contributed to the emergence of Borono Bassey as PDP Publicity Secretary.
Obongowo, what have you done for your boys? Do you even have boys or taks executors? When last did you sit your PA or AIDE down and ask him about his family, his dreams, his abandoned education, business and other aspects of his life that requires attention? When last did you speak to a higher authority about recommending your PA, AIDE or FRIEND for a higher and better appointment or job? You want him to be with you forever?
Hear me and hear me well, if as an Aide, PA, Servant, or whatever you are, Obongowo has not done what Rep. Idem, Speaker Aniekan Bassey and Comr. Ememobong did to Borono Bassey and their boys, MY FRIEND, you are a task executor to the task master. 2012 will come and go and you will still be running around him aimlessly. It is not late to choose a better mentor or cut a deal with Obongowo, that will help you find your feet in life.
Therefore, receive sense this 2021; engage your Boss well on becoming your Mentor. Look beyond receiving N5,000 stipend or N30,000 salary. Get a skill, develop yourself and add value to your life and society. God bless your hustles.
Deacon Aluu Vincent, Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State, Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News

Happy 2021 Birthday to Rep. Unyime Idem;

The Boss of all Bosses, Friend, Mentor, Jinx-breaking and five star performing Lawmaker, Initiator of skills empowerment for 5000 youths, Deputy Chairman Communications Committee and Member Representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in Nigeria’s House of Representatives.

Your impactful performance as a first-time lawmaker has amplified the aphorism that, “it is the man who makes the office and not the office who makes the man”.

As you commence another 365 days journey, I pray God Almighty to bless your new age, elevate your status and ferry you to your Eldorado.

For us at Naija Eye Witness News, you action as a leader has inspired us to dream more, learn more, do more and become more.

Have a fulfilled celebration Sir!
Deacon Aluu Vincent – Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State, CEO of Naija Eye Witness News and PublisherLegacy Magazine, writes from Uyo Akwa Ibom State.

“It is the man that makes the office and not the office that makes the man”. Aluu Vincent (2021)

By Deacon Aluu Vincent

Tuesday December 22, 2020 was the date and the venue was Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Empowerment Centre, No 3 Barracks road, besides Divisional Police station Ukanafun. Seated to witness the mother of all empowerment and commissioning of projects were more than 7000 drawn from across the state.

The people especially beneficiaries of the empowerment, never believed that anything good can come out from government and that a lawmaker from Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency would have the impetus and audacity to attempt empowering 1000 people in 26 different skills at once. This is given the fact that the Federal Constituency had prior to this time experienced near absence of representation at the federal level. The area was hit by lethargic representation between 2011 to 2019. They trusted God for a leader who would hear their cry, cry their cry, be their shoulder and help them to find their feet in life. God answered that prayer and sent Rep. Unyime Idem, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated Telecoms Dealer, to the rescue.
The coming of Rep. Unyime Idem has since changed the narrative. The testimony around is that the people have not had it this good to have a Lawmaker who is accessible, attending social functions on a weekly basis, pick their calls, and came back with basket full of life touching projects and empowerment for 1000 persons.
Rep. Idem left no one in doubt that he was going to make a difference. He immediately declared plans to lift 5000 youths out of poverty through skills acquisition and empowerment. On December 22, 2020, Rep. Idem stunned nay-sayers by commissioning 1000-seater capacity state of the art empowerment center, one in Ukanafun and another in Oruk Anam as part of his larger vision to raise the next generation of business leaders. He also commissioned 1000-seater capacity agricultural skills acquisition centre to help in boosting agriculture in Akwa Ibom state.
He sponsored the establishment of four E-learning centres in schools each fully equipped with 40 computer sets, full complement of VSAT internet, and other e-resources at Community High School, Usung Atiat, Ukanafun LGA; Afaha High School, Ikot Udombang, Ukanafun LGA; Community Secondary School, Urua Ekpaenang, Ukanafun LGA; and Community Secondary School, Mbiakot Oruk Anam LGA. The idea is to digitise education at the grassroots, make education fun, easy and train school children for the future. 16 more E-learning centers are being awaited.
Other projects Rep Idem attracted includes 12 Classroom Block with VIP Toilet at Community High School, Usung Atiat, Ukanafun LGA; 6 Classroom Block with VIP Toilet at Government Secondary School, Ikot Oku Usung, Ukanafun LGA; 6 Classroom Block with VIP Toilet at Skills Acquisition Centre Ikot Udo Obobo, Ukanafun LGA; Community Civic Centre, Usung Atiat, Ukanafun LGA; Solar-powered Water Scheme, Usung Atiat, Ukanafun LGA; 2 Bedroom Bungalow for a Widow, Ikot Udo Obobo, Ukanafun LGA and 6 Classroom Block with VIP Toilet at Government Model Secondary School, Obio Okpa, Oruk Anam LGA.

More surprises were in the offing as the Usung Atiat-born Lawmaker lined up 1000 youths and empowered them with skills and tools in 26 different life enhancing skills. The people could not believe that this would happen given ugly experiences they have had in the past. Even when the items were on display, they concluded that they were all for window dressing. Apart from free training offered to 500 youths, a total of 5 cars, 5 buses, 85 motor bikes, 100 sewing machines, 100 welding machines, 100 hair dressing kits, 100 barbing saloon kits were given out. Also, more than 500 constituents went home with various sums of money as business support, rappers and other empowerment starter-packs. Rep. Idem has made a commitment that the remaining 4,000 beneficiaries will be empowered as follows – 1500 in December 2021, 1500 in December 2022 and 1000 in December 2023.
Rep. Idem maintains that education for just certificate cannot solve the problem of unemployment and youth restiveness presently ravaging the country. He says the answer lies squarely in skills acquisition; that is teaching the youths how to fish, how to become self-reliant, how to create wealth and jobs. Mahatma Gandhi had Idem in mind when he said, “the measure of a man’s greatness is not in the number of servants he has but in the number of people he serves”.

Stakeholders and beneficiaries have variously taken turns at several fora to pour encomiums on Rep. Unyime Idem stating that it was indeed the first time in the history of the Federal Constituency to witness such a harvest of human centered projects and mother of empowerment within 18 months. They also commended the capacity and competence of Idem whom as a first timer, has proven that government can indeed work depending on who is occupying the leadership seat. This of course tallies with the notion that it is the man that makes the office and not the office that makes the man.
One of the beneficiaries from Oruk Anam Ward 11 by name Saturday Ufot Udoekpo said, “It pleases me as one of your empowerment beneficiaries to express my heartfelt joy to your gesture of goodwill. Your sewing machine has increased my work ability and efficiency. My thanks might not be enough but I pray God should reward you”

A beneficiary of 2005 Toyota Camry, Prince Ikpongifono Udom from Oruk Anam said, “Thank you Rep. Idem for being there for me at all times. In a critical time like this where prices of thigs are skyrocketing, you brought an admirable and a choice car for me. I am happy; my wife is happy and my children are joyous. God bless Rep. Idem, protect, guide him and I wish him heaven at last”
Also Ndifreke Otu, another beneficiary said, “In the history of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, we have never had a good representation as witnessed in the era of Rep. Unyime Idem. You came with a campaign promise to massively empower the youths. True to it, you surpassed that promise. We have never had it this good. The popular maxim, “build the youths, build the nation” has found true and realistic meaning. Indeed, you are a nation builder”

Obong (Elder) Eno Akpan, former Member House of Representatives and the Political Leader of Ukanafun LGA said “Hon. Unyime Idem is a man of destiny. He has a humble background and is God fearing. He represents an embodiment of persons the youths should emulate. He was not born with silver spoon in his mouth. He has gone ahead to create and place silver spoons in the mouth of many. He has created wealth for many and put food on the tables of many.” Chief Senas Ukpanah, MFR, a retired Permanent Secretary, former Minister of Trade and National Planning said, “There are three things I always say about Unyime Idem. He is from a humble background. He developed himself and emerged as an entrepreneur. He has three things going for him. Competence, Capacity and Character. I was privileged to accompany him when he was consulting to become member House of Representatives. He has displayed rare kind of attitude and has remained positive to the things of life”. Rt. Hon. Obong Soni Udom, Former Member representing Oruk Anam Federal Constituency added, “We prevailed on Unyime Idem to accept to be our representative because we knew he will make a great difference using his national and international contacts. We needed a man of his calibre; a man of impeccable mien, capacity and competence. He is a man with knack for excellence. we needed someone with the capacity, character and competence to fill the leadership gap and wilderness experience we tasted for 8 years. To God be the glory he has not disappointed us. He has been phenomenal in the last one and half year. To me, we have no regret voting for him”.

Chief Sunny Okoko, a former member of representing Oruk Anam at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and the pioneer Director General of Rep. Unyime Idem’s Campaign Organisation in 2019 said “Hon. Unyime Idem is a good man with so much prospect in Akwa Ibom politics few years from now. He is a humble and honest fellow with a heart for service; a heart determined to make a difference; a heart that believes in the greatest good for the greater number of people.

Deacon Ndianabasi Nana Udom, SSA to the Governor on Multilateral and Donor Agencies while celebrating Idem’s one year in office noted, “It has been amazing and we have been proud of Hon. Idem’s representation at the floor of the National Assembly. Whenever I see his activities, I feel I did not lose anything supporting him. It gives me strength that even if I did not make it, the person who made it seems to be doing what I would have done if I made it. In summary, I did not lose to someone without capacity and probably, I did not lose to someone who has disappointed us as a Federal Constituency”. Hon. Saturday Akpan (Prosper), former Lawmaker and Organising Secretary of the PDP Akwa Ibom State said, “We sat as a people to carefully decide who would fly the flag of representation for us. Hon. Unyime Idem was chosen. Today, we are fulfilled that he is doing us proud. I have no doubt in me that he is a man to watch. Our decision to send him to the National Assembly was not a mistake. We are grateful as a people”. The list of commendation is endless.

The determination of Rep. Idem to impact his generation, contribute to society, serve his people and humanity is anchored on the notion that “Only a life lived for the service of others is a life well lived; and that, the ultimate test of a man’s conscience is his willingness to sacrifice something today for the future generation whose words of thanks will not be heard”.

He is indeed living true to his name IDEMS – Inspire, Develop, Empower, Motivate and Support.

Deacon Aluu Vincent – Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State, the Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News and Legacy Magazine, writes from Uyo Akwa Ibom State.

The role of the legislature in the development of any society cannot be over-emphasized. It is the duty of the Legislature to make laws for the peace, progress, security and prosperity of a people. It is also the responsibility of the law-making body to provide the legislative and other support to other arms of government to enable same carry out their functions devoid of any hassle.

As one of the greatest historians of all times, the late Ambassador Professor Okon Edet Uya said, “the raison d’etre of government is to service the welfare of the people. This is what gives government a moral anchor”. The Legislature has an undeniably critical role to play in ensuring the provision of services that will improve the lives of the people and guarantee prosperity and development. This comes by way of granting approvals to spend public funds, making laws to give legal backings to the policies and programmes of government.

Given this critical role, there is no gainsaying that the Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey-led Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has contributed immensely to the development, industrialization and completion agenda of the present government. It is often said that a Legislature is judged by the quantity, quality and impact of bills, motions and other legislative engagements to its credit. The 7th Akwa Ibom Assembly has done noble by sponsoring more than 40 bills some of which have been passed and signed into law while others are at various stages of committee engagements. Some of the bills are meant to provide support to the Udom Emmanuel government to succeed.

Some of the bills include Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Bill. Hon. (Barr) Aniefiok Dennis (Etinan) Passed into law, HAB 218 A Bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom State College of Health Technology. Hon. (Barr) Aniefiok Dennis Passed into law, HAB 219 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom Safety Commission. Rt. Hon. (Dr) Usoro Akpanusoh Stakeholders’ engagement completed, HAB 220 A bill for a law to make provision for establishment of Akwa Ibom Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency. Rt. Hon. Mark Esset Passed into Law, HAB 221 2020 Appropriation Bill Executive Bill Passed into Law, HAB 222 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund. Hon. (Barr) Otobong Bob Passed second reading, HAB 223 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom State Tourism, Art and Culture Endowment Fund. Hon. Asuquo Nana Udo (Ikono) Passed second reading, HAB 224 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom State College of Science & Technology, Nnung Ukim, Ikono. Hon. Godwin Ekpo (Ibiono Ibom) Passed into law, HAB 225 A bill for a law to provide for the establishment of Akwa Ibom Debt Management office. Rt. Hon. Uduak Odudoh Passed into law, HAB 226 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom Bureau of Public Procurement and Budget Monitoring Hon. Uduak Odudoh Passed into law, HAB 227 A bill for a law to establish the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly Legislative Fund Management and other matters connected therewith Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan Public hearing/Stakeholders’ engagement, HAB 229 A bill for a law to provide for the control of physical/urban and regional planning activities, the establishment of urban regional planning agency and area planning authorities in Akwa Ibom State. Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan Passed into law.

Others are HAB 231 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom Neighborhood Safety Corp and for connected purposes. Hon. Anietie Eka Passed second reading, HAB 237 Security Improvement through functional Community Policing. Rt. Hon. Aniekan Uko Passed first reading, HAB 240 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom Private Healthcare Management Agency. Hon. Udeme Otong Passed first Reading, HAB 242 Akwa Ibom Consumer Protection Agency Bill Hon. (Barr) Esse Umoh Passed first Reading, HAB 246 A bill for a law to establish Akwa Ibom State Information Technology Development Agency. Hon. KufreAbasi Edidem. Passed First Reading, HAB 247 A bill for a law to establish a comprehensive food security framework for the State; Food storage facilities, strategic Food Reserve and for other connected purposes. Rt. Hon. (Elder) Aniekan Uko Passed First Reading, HAB 243 A bill for a law to amend the appropriation law, 2020. Rt. Hon. (Sir) Udo K. Akpan Passed into Law, Akwa Ibom State Symbols Bill, passed into law, Local Content Bill, passed first reading, among others. Also, the 7th Assembly has moved more than 30 motions/matters of urgent public importance some of which have been acted upon.

Significantly is the fact that Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey has provided robust leadership direction to his colleagues and the Assembly. I am one of those who believe that it is the man who makes the office and not the other way round. Aniekan Bassey has displayed a rare kind of servant-leadership through his unassuming nature. This has brought honour, prestige and accolades to the leadership of the People’s Assembly.

He speaks to everyone in the same way, whether he is the garbage man, the Clerk or the Deputy Speaker. He understands that to lead the people, he must walk behind them and that there is no need to show off when you know who you are. It is this understanding that has defined Aniekan’s relationship with his colleagues and the public. First, he ensured that members get their dues, take charge of their various committees and are held accountable. Here is a man who for four years as member had no Police escort and was always sitting with his driver in the front seat of the car. Aniekan’s life has taught me that when you let humility and receptivity define you, you don’t become arrogant, you don’t become brash, you don’t become proud. Rather, God gives you a “holy boldness” to proclaim the truth more accurately.

Members of the 7th Assembly have openly spoken of how infectious his humility is and how he has redefined House leadership by running an open-door government, and giving everyone a sense of belonging. His colleagues who have since nicknamed him the Working Speaker, are in agreement that Speaker Bassey is a leader who matches his words with action, stressing that the nickname came up because of the way he (Speaker) has continued to hold the state legislative arm as one, and how he has handled the affairs of the House so far. Only recently, Speaker Bassey was elected Vice Chairman Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria and Chairman South South Speakers’ Forum.
Need I mention the fact that Speaker Bassey has ensured the provision of a conducive work environment for members and staff. This led to the massive renovation of offices, committee rooms, speaker’s lodge, replacement of furniture and generating set, repainting of the Assembly complex and landscaping, etc.

The leadership and members of the People’s Assembly understand that to whom much is given, much is expected. To that extent, members have gone ahead to meet the needs of their constituents through various empowerment programmes and attracting of development projects to their various constituencies.

One of such programmes is the Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey Youth Empowerment Support Scheme, RHAB-YESS, championed by the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. The programme is aimed at discovering, mentoring and supporting young entrepreneurs to become job and wealth creators. The scheme is for every Akwa Ibom sons and daughters within the state and it complements Governor Udom Emmanuel’s Enterprise Development Drive. The idea is to provide support funds for 3 small businesses and startups every month. While the winner goes home with 250,000, the second and third place smiles home with 150,000 and 100,000 respectively. Winners are selected from a Face Book open contest every Saturday, 8pm to 9pm. The programme which will run until the end of 2023 is at its 13th edition has so far empowered 39 small businesses and start-ups.
Another aspect the 7th Assembly has done well is in the area of lending support and cooperating with other arms of government for the good of the Akwa Ibom people. The Assembly under Speaker Bassey understands that strict adherence to separation of powers as enunciated by Baron De Montesquieu is not cast on stones. Upon taking over as Speaker, he sued for collaborative governance where each arm of government will go for cooperation of powers.

According to the Speaker, “the Seventh Assembly does not see separation of powers as an avenue to antagonise other arms of government, rather it is a means of ensuring proficiency in governance through synergy. If the three arms of government cooperate and collaborate, there will be less political frictions that will hamper the delivery of dividends of democracy to the people. We all know that separation of powers is a key component of a democratic government. Though separate, we should imbibe the spirit of co-operation and collaboration of the arms of government. Truth is no arm of government can truly be separated in a functional democracy that seeks to deliver dividends to the people".
It is the above mindset that has seen the Assembly work hand in gloves with the Executive arm of government to ensure the actualization of the industrialization and completion agenda. The Assembly has always been on hand to grant approvals to the Governor; screen and clear his nominees, scrutinse and approve yearly budgets, conduct oversight functions .

It is expedient that the 7th Assembly quadruples its support to the Udom Emmanuel-led government by liaising with the relevant agencies to encourage more inflow of foreign investment. The Assembly should make laws that provides tax reliefs, free or subsidized lands and other incentives to investors. Government should as a matter of urgency ensure that certificate of occupancies for landed properties are given expedited action to lure investors. Also, extant laws that are anti investment should be immediately reviewed. Laws setting up Akwa Ibom State Investment Corporation (AKICORP), should be rejigged and repositioned so it remains alive to its set mandate. The industrialisation agenda of the Udom Emmanuel-led government is yielding positive fruits and must be supported. It is one agenda that has set the tone for the complete transformation of the state from a civil service state to a business hub that will guarantee prosperity, development and improvement of living standards of the people. The House of Assembly has a critical role to play in the overall success of the plan. I have no doubt in my mind that the Rt. Hon. Aniekan Bassey led 7th Assembly has since keyed into it and are ready to do more.

God Bless Akwa Ibom State.

Deacon Aluu Vincent – Ubokutomabasi Kiet of Akwa Ibom State, the Publisher of Naija Eye Witness News and Legacy Magazine, writes from Uyo.

Nigeria's Failed Federalism is the reason NGF Chairman Made the Above Comment.

The NGF Chairman is 100% correct, The Federal government cant impose minimum wage on the states. The is the result you get when you practice a failed federalism with all the trappings of a Unitary system of government. By definition Federalism is a system of government in which the federating units are coordinate and independent. This means that each state ought to generate and manage its own resources, run its own government and develop at its pace. What we find today of course is a direct consequence of Military intervention in governance and of course bad leadership that has permeated the very fabrics of Nigeria.

The solution I have always clamoured, is a return to true federalism which grants each state the right to generate resources. pay royalty to the federal government and adopt its own governance structure. We had this between 1960-1966. It can still work. This Feeding Bottle Federalism is not helping us one bit. The Federal government has taken over legislative items meant for the states including tax powers. Imagine the Federal government having exclusive jurisdiction over 68 legislative items and concurrent jurisdiction over 28 others. We have an over bloated and very powerful federal government and weak states who go cap in hand each month for monthly allocation. We need to restructure so the system an work properly. Our greedy leaders wont let this happen because they benefit tremendously from the system, So, I support the NGF, they should stand their ground.

However, let me reiterate the fact that Nigerian workers whether, federal, state or local government deserves more than 30,000 minimum wage. we have ore than enough in this country to pay workers even 100,000 minimum wage. the greed and rot in the system wont allow that happen. Have we ever seen our politicians negotiate their pay packages? The answer is no simply because it does not concern them. Why will it become an issue to pay Nigerian workers a paltry 30,000. It is up to the amount these politicians use to fuel their cars per day, or buy airtime for their phones or dash their side chics. It is ridiculous and unacceptable that Minimum wage is an issue. Any governor that cannot pay should resign and go.

Hon Unyime Idem set to Train and Empower 5000 Constituents

…Flag-off holds Friday

Member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and Deputy Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Communications, Hon. Unyime Idem, is set to train and empower 5000 constituents.

This information was obtained from the Office of the Honourable Member by the Press. The information states that in keeping with his campaign promises, the Ukanafun-born Lawmaker has approved the commencement of training and empowerment of 5000 constituents beginning from December 2019. The statement states that beneficiaries will be drawn from Ukanafun and Oruk Anam LGAs respectively and will be trained on Skills of their choice while Job Applicants will be assisted to gain employment.

The major reason for embarking on this massive life-transforming initiative according to the statement is the determination of Hon. Idem to ensure the complete eradication of youth restiveness, insecurity and unemployment in the Federal Constituency through skills acquisition, empowerment and assist beneficiaries to be economically self-reliant, independent, job and wealth creators. Also, Hon. Idem having seen the magnitude of crises that engulfed Ukanafun and its environs for three years is determined to ensure that any re-occurrence is nipped in the bud while the youths are meaningfully engaged through skills acquisition, training and empowerment.

The statement further states that on Friday August 23, 2019, at No. 3 Barracks road beside Central Police Station, Ukanafun LGA by 10.00 am, the Federal Lawmaker will officially launch the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Initiative, the Body that will be charged with the responsibility of executing skills acquisition and empowerment programmes for the next four years.
The event which will be chaired by Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, the Secretary to Government of Akwa Ibom State, will have His Excellency, Mr. Moses Ekpo, MFR as Special Guest of Honour. Other Guests expected includes the Speaker and Members of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Akwa Ibom State Caucus in the National Assembly, Members of the State Executive Council. Others are political leaders and stakeholders of the Federal Constituency, current and past office holders, captains of industries, youths, students and the general public. Information gleaned from the Office of the House of Representatives Member also indicates that during the flag-off exercise, applicants will be issued with empowerment forms to fill and return immediately for documentation and authentication purposes.

Recall that during the 2019 National Assembly electioneering, Hon. Idem commissioned Ukanafun/Oruk Anam empowerment centre and made a solemn pledge that if elected, he will help raise the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders who would become job and wealth creators. It is in keeping to that pledge that this programme is being flagged-off. Ukanafun//Oruk Anam Federal Constituency will no doubt experience bumper harvest of democratic dividends and it will be the first of its kind in South-South Nigeria.

It is truism that Hon. Unyime Idem within few months in the Green Chamber has shown competence, character and willingness-to-serve attitude. Barely a month after being inaugurated, the Telecoms Juggernaut moved a worthy motion on the Need to revamp NIFOR Substation at Oruk Anam. He also made a case for increased budgetary allocation to the Education sector. Only recently, Hon. Idem played host to Finland Ambassador to Nigeria in his Abuja Office and secured commitment from the Finnish government to establish a Technology Institute and ICT hub in Ukanafun.

He has promised to give the people effective representation on the floor of the Green Chamber and also ensure that their lives are transformed for the better. Indeed, governance and representation narratives is being changed in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency.

#IdemsEmpowers5000

OVERHAULING OF THE NATION’S SECURITY MECHANISM WILL HELP LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS AND BOOST FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT, HON. UNYIME IDEM


The Member-Elect for Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Hon. Unyime Idem has said that a complete overhaul of the security mechanism in Nigeria will help local entrepreneurs and boost foreign direct investment. He dropped this hint while fielding questions from National Assembly TV Crew at the ongoing orientation for National Assembly Members-Elect. He said there was a need for rejigging of the security mechanism to reflect the realities on the ground and ensure the protection of lives and properties of Nigerians. He noted that peace and security is one of the fundamental raison d’etre of government which is constitutionally provided for and promised that he and his other colleagues will ensure proper laws are made to strengthen security agencies for better results.

When asked on his take on the security situation in the country and how the 9th Assembly will tackle it, Hon. Idem had this to say:

“As Member-Elect, part of our duties is to carry out oversight function to MDAs assigned to us. Security is going to be top on the agenda. We need to take a critical and holistic look at it given the present situation. Most of us are privileged to travel outside the shores of this country. We have experienced first-hand how security is being managed over there. My colleagues and I have discussed it. Together shall be making laws and providing the requisite framework that will put security in its proper perspective; that same way it works elsewhere and the way it ought to be. We will ensure that security is repositioned to help entrepreneurs, encourage foreign investors to bring in their investments and have confidence in our economy. When security is in place, businesses will thrive, jobs and wealth will be created for our teeming youths while living standard will be improved”

Hon. Unyime Idem is Member-Elect for Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Prior to his election, he remains one of Nigeria’s finest entrepreneurs in South-South region; Nigeria’s most celebrated telecoms partner, the biggest private-sector employer of labour in Akwa Ibom state, the MD/CEO of Idems Ultimate Limited and Chairman, Stanford Microfinance Bank Limited. His legislative agenda for his people is encapsulated in Promotion of Peace and Security, Effective and People-Based Representation, Empowerment through Job and Wealth Creation and Political, Economic Inclusivity and Development.

Yes, Mr. Unyime Idem is the man to watch at the 9th National Assembly. He has got the Charisma, competence, capacity and experience to make a difference in the lives of the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency and Nigeria at large. He is out to inspire, develop, empower and motivate.

#ANewBeginning

When Grace and Diligence are at Work.

Seeth thou a man that is Diligent in his business, he shall stand before kings and not mean men.

The Member - Elect for Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Mr. Unyime Idem in a warm handshake with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara while the Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu looks on in admiration at the ongoing Orientation Program for National Assembly Members-Elect.

Prior to his election, Mr. Unyime Idem, Nigeria's most celebrated telecoms service partner was the MD of Idems Ultimate Limited and Chairman of Stanford Microfinance Bank Limited.

#AnewBeginning

+ 1 miracle is here again. The awesomely awesome God loves me too much with excess love. Surviving another 365 days is God's doing. It has been a bouquet of blessings. With daunting challenges here and there, God's mercy kept me to see another day. Happy birthday to me, the one and only Deacon Vincent Aluu and NELLYVIN Group. Celebrate with me

Yes it is the same Zamfara State that posted huge results in favour of Buhari. Meanwhile peaceful states like Akwa Ibom and Abia posted low results. What a magic that people dont turn up for election in peaceful places but show up in war torn areas like Bornu, Yobe, Adamawa and Zamfara. There is God Ohhhhhhhhhh

Why are you crying wolf. If you have evidence that he is a thief, shebi you be lawyer, SAN at that, why not approach the court or EFCC with it. Atiku has presented evidences of thieving in the President's family, defend that one first or shut up ypur bukal cavity now and for ever

I thought you said Abacha did not steal a dime. why receive the money na. You would have rejected it na. Mtchewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

Anyone who agrees with Garba Shehu that the Federal government is not aware of the list making the rounds is gullible and as guilty as the Federal government. This is a government that denied its own promises made during the electioneering. Now they want us to believe that the list did not emanate from them. It is because of the backlash they have received that has prompted them to deny knowledge of the list. The fear of the emergence of Atiku is the beginning of wisdom for APC. A clueless government indeed. Mtchewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww