₦airaland Forum

Urges President Buhari To Assent Urgently Assent To Amended Copyright Bill


As Nigeria strives to compete with the rest of the world in knowledge and academic enhancement, publishers in the country have been commended for the enormous roles they play in ensuring that the Nigerian public and educational institutions are equipped with quality books to broaden their knowledge and skills to solving societal problems.

This commendation is coming from the House of Representatives Deputy Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu who was the chairman of the just concluded 2022 Annual Conference and General Meeting of Nigerian Publishers Association, NPA.

The lawmaker stressed that apart from economic purposes, publishers contribute immensely to the benefit of mankind through knowledge development, which he says is the bedrock of development in any society.

"As a matter of fact, if you don't provide the vehicle to enable people enhance their knowledge, then it will be very difficult for the world to develop.

"As a matter of fact, it is through reading that understanding and knowledge comes and publishers are the very important medium through which that capacity is brought to the public.

"It is through reading that you can appropriate the world. You can travel all over the world without moving an inch because through books you can see what happens in other countries. Through publishing, you can export, you can appropriate, you can import ideas", he said.

The ranking House of Representatives member noted that publishers who are producing a vehicle for transfer of knowledge are exporting ideas, urging them not to be discouraged by the challenges surrounding their job, especially copyright infringement but maintain the current visibility they enjoy, will proper them to greater heights.

He said the National Assembly shares the publishers' aspirations in protection of their works which led to the passage into law the Copyright Amendment Bill in July this year by the two chambers of the National Assembly, a document that has been transmitted to President Muhammadu Buhari for his assent.

He therefore urged President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently give his assent to the Bill.

Rt. Hon. Okechukwu urged members of NPA to follow-up the amended document, just like other organisations do to ensure that President Muhammadu Buhari signs it into law, assuring that the management of the National Assembly will be ready to assist the association perform better as an agent of social change.

On a lighter note, Rt. Hon. Toby denied being an engineer, saying he read English and Literary Studies and later bagged a Masters Degree in Business Management in addition to his Law background.

He said he became an "honorary engineer" when the Nigerian Society of Engineers honoured him with the fellowship of the society, the topmost in its list of honours in recognition of the job his committee did when he was the chairman of the House Committee on Works.

The two-day conference of the NPA also featured the recognition with award of excellence to individuals and organisations who have been supportive in raising the bar of quality publishing in the country.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/reps-deputy-minority-leader-rt-hon-toby-okechukwu-lauds-publishers-role-in-knowledge-development/

NPA conference was superb

Colourful

The umbrella body of publishers in Nigeria, Nigerian Publishers Association, NPA has held its 2022 annual conference and general meeting with an appeal on President Muhammadu Bubari to expedite action to assent to the amended Copyright Bill passed into law by the National Assembly.

This according to the association will save members from further copyright infringement and huge financial loss associated with criminal piracy in the country.

While thanking both chambers of the the National Assembly for passage of the Bill, the association noted that timely presidential assent will strengthen the Nigerian Copyright Commission, NCC in its fight to reduce infringement of copyrights.

"We express appreciation to the Senate and House of Representatives for passing the copyright amendment Bill, it's not yet uhuru. It's going to be a giant step in redefining copyright profession in Nigeria.

"All we ask today is that President Muhammadu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces will do well to quickly assent to that Bill so that it becomes law.

"The biggest plague we have is copyright infringement, it's so criminally done in this part of the world that a lot of publishers are almost going underground, a timely passage of that Bill will strengthen the NCC, one body that has done so much in the fight against piracy" the President and Chairman-in-Council of NPA, Dr. Uchenna Cyril Anioke told participants in his welcome address at the 2-day conference/AGM in Abuja on Thursday.

With the theme, "Redefining Publishing and Reading Culture in a Digital Era" the association while reiterating its resolve to provide Nigerians with more quality books to strengthen the country's education sector also called for publishing in indigenous languages, just like China, North Korea, Indonesia and other developed countries, saying it will be a quantum leap in redefining publishing apart from churning out publications in just English language.

According to the President and Chairman-in-Council of NPA, people hide their ideas and invention in their indigenous language, stressing that if more books are published in Nigerian languages starting from nursery to tertiary level, it will give the country an edge to favourably compete with nations who have climbed the ladder of development.

Dr. Anioke expressed the readiness of the association to assist in this regard, appealing to the federal government to activate its relevant agencies to partner with NPA as well as in translating "worthy books" to indigenous languages.

This he said will prepare the Nigerian academic institutions on the pathway to teaching courses such as engineering, medicine and others in indigenous languages in line with redefining publishing and reading in the country.

In his remarks, chairman of the occasion and the Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu extolled the role of publishers in country's development especially in making quality books available for the masses.

"As a matter of fact, it is through reading that the world can develop. As you all know, publishers are important medium in bringing that capacity to the public.

"It is through reading that you can appropriate the world. You can travel round the world without moving an inch because through books you can see what is happening in other countries. Reading can help you appropriate, import and export ideas" the lawmaker stated.

While urging NPA to engage in more follow-up to the Nigerian Copyright Amendment Bill passed into law since July and ensure the President acts on it, Hon. Okechukwu pledged the readiness of the National Assembly to continue to use the instrumentality of the gavel to protect the intellectual property of the publishers and advance the welfare of Nigerians generally.

The keynote speaker at the occasion and the chairman Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC Prof. A.K Usman said time has come to navigate towards digital publishing in line with the theme of the conference.

This he said is more cost effective, gives authors and publishers visibility, reduces losses associated with damage or unsold copies of books, gives readers opportunity to have books in their digital devices as well as create opportunity for authors and publishers to earn more revenue.

He therefore called on publishers to raise the tempo in digital publishing in line with the global trend.

The Director General of Voice of Nigeria, Chief Osita Okechukwu thanked NPA for the theme of the conference, saying contrary to assumptions that publishers will incur losses in a digital era, he noted that the digital copies are paid for and not sold for free.

According to him, Internet has come to stay and groups must leverage on it to break boundaries and reach international audiences.

Highlight of the event was the recognition with award of excellence on individuals and organisations who have been of immense value in supporting the activities of NPA.

https://equitynews.ng/2022/11/26/nigerian-publishers-association-holds-agm-seeks-presidential-assent-to-copyright-amendment-bill/

Very colourful

It was a carnival of sort as the book, "Legend of Buratai" was on Tuesday officially presented to the public at the prestigious Silverbird Cinema, Wuse, the heart of Abuja the nation's capital.

Prominent Nigerians, including the APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the immediate past Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi who was also the co-chairman and the Managing Director, North East Development Commission, Dr. Mohammed Alkali and others praised the former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai who is the central character of the book for his selfless service to the country.

The event also witnessed a heavy presence of politically exposed persons, top class traditional rulers, service chiefs, heads of para-military agencies, academic institutions and more.

Children from various schools within the FCT were also celebrated in commemorate of the Nov. 20 World Children's Day as they happily read from the book.

"Legend of Buratai" a novel of eight chapters and 120 pages highlights the path and virtue of bravery, hard work, prudence and fearlessness which the former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai is known for.

The book which is already available in two volumes, was adapted for children and also into animation movie for the delight of younger Nigerians, with a view of inspiring them on the exemplary public service life of Buratai.

Speaking at the event, the author "Legend of Buratai", a renowned journalist, Abubakar Mohammed Sani noted that the book also teaches that the son of nobody could become somebody through focus and determination which he said Buratai has consistently demonstrated.

"If you are hard working and diligent, you remain consistent in that diligence, you are passionate about what you do, one day the sky will be your limit. Our children need to know that.

"We have this mindset that in this country, you must know somebody before you get to certain levels, with this book, children can be motivated" he said.

While describing the book as a creative fiction, Dr. Abubakar Sani said most of the military operations highlighted in the book which Buratai led actually took place but were creatively written as not to violate extant rules since some of the information are classified.

The presidential candidate of All Progressives Congress APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu speaking at the event extolled the selfless service which Buratai has rendered to the country as an army officer and an ambassador, saying he is a rare breed of patriot and nationalist.

Represented by the Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Defence Babajimi Benson, Tinubu also commended Buratai for according honour and respect to constituted authorities, including the House of Representatives during his tenure as the country's Chief of Army staff.

He noted that with little resources, Buratai was able to achieve results and make the country safe for citizens to live and conduct their businesses without fear of harassment by insurgents.

In his comment, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya who was represented by the Chief of Civil Military Affairs (CCMA) Major General Markus Kangye described Buratai as an embodiment of courage and resilience who through discipline and focus rose through the ranks and emerged to Chief of Army Staff.

The Army Chief praised Buratai for the several operations he led which liberated parts of the country from the grip of Boko Haram, saying the book will serve as a guide to greatness to future generations on the virtue of sincerity and integrity.

The Director General of the State Security Service, Mr. Yusuf Magaji Bichi who was represented by the Spokesman of the Service, Peter Afunanya said the book will help in putting narratives about the former Chief of Army Staff right and teach younger generations to behave right in the interest of the country.

He urged Nigerian to emulate the personality of Buratai by exhibiting patriotism and shun acts capable of causing disharmony especially as the 2023 general elections approach.

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi who was represented by a former Senator, Chief Anyaogu Eze praised Buratai for being an embodiment of humility and remaining an example to younger Nigerians.

He applauded the quality of the book and urged the celebrant to remain a rally point for national unity and peaceful co-existence.

Source: https://equitynews.ng/2022/11/23/tinubu-amaechi-others-extol-ex-coas-on-bravery-hard-work-at-launch-of-the-book-legend-of-buratai/

Congratulations

After two years of fruitful sojourn as the chairman of Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN FCT 1 Abuja branch, Wahab Shina Omoniyi on Saturday officially took his exit.

He handed over mantle of leadership to his successor, Shavah Elisha Andrew who emerged through a virtual electioneering exercise at Merit House Maitama Abuja.

Elected at the peak of COVID-19 in 2020, Omoniyi had during his inaugural speech promised to ensure judicious use of the branch's resources which dwindled on the effect of the pandemic, build on the existing corporate social responsibility template, train and build capacity of members.

He has attracted commendations for the sterling leadership he has demonstrated since he took over from his predecessor, Petu Joyce.

Under his leadership, for the first time in the history of branches, ANAN FCT 1 Abuja introduced an electronic payment platform which reduces the bottlenecks associated with paying annual and other dues among members. It has also helped in enhancing transparency and prudence in the administration of finances of the branch.

It is on the account of these and more that he recently emerged the North Central Zonal chairman of the association covering, covering FCT, Nasarawa, Kogi, Benue, Plateau, Kwara and Niger states.

Now an immediate past chairman, IPC he called on the new exco to put up a mechanism in place to ensure that all parties are genuinely reconciled to douse antagonism generated by the win and otherwise of the election.

He also supervised a flawless virtual voting exercise where over 330 members participated, same process that brought him to power.

"I advise the new EXCO to always carry out a proper consultation in the affairs of things and to carry everybody along, to see how the interest of all will be the watch word instead of self" he said.

Shavah Elisha Andrew defeated Barde Victoria Bulus with 241 votes to 136 votes.

Other officials elected include, vice chairman Salamatu Yahaya Afegbua, Secretary General Oyedele John Kehinde,Treasurer Caroline Etu Omonokhua, Assistant Secretary Ogunsola Akintunde, Financial Secretary Augustine Doris Oluchukwu, Publicity/Welfare Secretary Fyada Edward Pwakleno, and Ex-officio 2 Allan Tsaku

The electoral committee chairman and a member of council in charge of branches and benevolence, Ibrahim Makut applauded tbe branch for remaining united and resolute as a pace-setter branch, urging the new leadership to carry everyone along.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/omoniyi-bows-out-as-anan-fct-1-chairman/

Congratulations

A new chairman has been elected to pilot the affairs of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN FCT 1 Abuja branch for the next two years.

Shavah Elisha Andrew was on Saturday elected in a virtual poll in Abuja where over 330 members of the branch participated from across the country.

He succeeds Wahab Shina Omoniyi whose tenure has just come to an end.

Shavah Elisha Andrew polled 241 votes to defeat her only challenger, Barde Victoria Bulus who came behind with 136 votes.

In his remarks shortly after inauguration, he said there is neither victor no vanquished in the exercise, noting that the branch remains one united family.

"We are here to serve you, your priority is our priority, your purpose is our purpose and together we can achieve more.

"I want to reiterate, all hands will be on deck to achieve our desired goal. Let's work as one family. Those who couldn't make it this time, there is always another opportunity in future, we cannot all be executive members at the same time" he said.

Andrew also promised to be guided by professional code of ethics, professional discipline and good conduct during his leadership.

Chairman of the electoral committee and a member of Council of ANAN in charge of branches and benevolence, Ibrahim Makut applauded the branch for its innovation which enabled a smooth electronic poll.

While congratulating the new leadership, he called on those who did not win to support the exco in the interest of the branch.

The immediate past chairman, Wahab Shina Omoniyi thanked members for the support offered him during his tenure, appealing to them to back the new leadership to succeed.

Other officials elected include, vice chairman Salamatu Yahaya Afegbua, Secretary Oyedele John Kehinde, Treasurer Caroline Etu Omonokhua, Assistant Secretary Ogunsola Akintunde, Financial Secretary Augustine Doris Oluchukwu, Publicity/Welfare Secretary Fyada Edward and Ex-officio 2 Allan Tsaku

Source: https://equitynews.ng/2022/11/13/change-of-guards-shavah-andrew-elected-chairman-anan-fct-1/

The Vice-presidential candidate of Labour Party, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed (PhD), Presidential candidate of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, and 37 others have been inducted into Public Leadership at FLED International Leadership Institute.

While Datti Baba-Ahmed (PhD) and Prince Adebayo bagged Honourary Fellowship of the Institute, others were inducted as Associate and certified members and Fellows.

Speaking at the event which held at the National Merit House, Abuja on Friday November 11, 2022, the President of the Institute, Joseph Ibekwe, advised the inductees to remain good ambassadors of the Institute and stand out in leadership any where they find themselves.

While decrying leadership deficit in Nigeria, Ibekwe said there is no magic wand to tackle bad leadership apart from education and training.

"It's only educated wise leaders that can help a nation to grow. Also it is only educated citizens that can make a society to prosper, because without educated citizens, it will be difficult for them to make informed decision on who to elect."

"Until citizens understand the consequences of bad leadership, they will continue to elect those who have no business in leadership.

"We need the citizens to be educated, to understand that leadership is about their future, it is about their present and past.

"When they understand this, they will not just elect leaders based on their religion, ethnicity or base on their affinity. They will elect leaders based on their capacity and demonstrated commitment to public service" he said.

While noting that leadership is crucial in human development, Ibekwe expressed the readiness of FLED International Leadership Institute to continue to train quality transformational leaders for public service in the country.

Also speaking, Dean, College of Fellows at the Institute, Major Dr. Ambosun Aku (Rtd), Hif faulted the recruitment system of leaders in the country, saying a recruitment process through a corrupt means will ultimately result into failure.

He urged parents and caregivers to continue to train their children and wards in excellent leadership style beginning from the home.

"If you want to lead, you must go through that aspect of leadership, and leadership encompasses everything, if you fail as a leader, nothing can function in the country.

"Look at Singapore, they had a good leader and he laid the foundation, look at India and Pakistan, even the US, when you fail, you go back to the drawing board, re-engineer and reposition the whole country, we are not doing that, the attention is in just stealing and corruption, then recycling the same leaders" Aku lamented.

He insists that the country needs a new breed of leaders who are dynamic and futuristic.

In his remarks, an associate fellow of FLED International Leadership Institute, Ogor Michael Ejeh called for more investment in raising and equipping men for leadership positions to positively influence others.

A newly inducted Certified Member of the Institute, Uzochukwu Nnaemeka, cmi, expressed gratitude to the Institute for finding him worthy of the honour, saying it will be a stepping stone towards realizing ambitions.

The Institute also has many great Nigerians as members to mention but a few; Dr. Sam Amadi, former Chairman, Nigeria Electricity Commission, Dr. John Dara, 2-times presidential contestant (2011 & 2019), John "Freeman" O. Ondoma, Chairman, Association of Nigerian Authors, Abuja Chapter, Chika Francis-Ndukwe, renowned children/parent counselor and CEM coordinator, Chidinma Joy Iroka, renowned Space Engineer and Assistant Director NASRDA, many professionals from the engineering, finance, legal, banking, education and other sectors.

The Chairman of Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN FCT 1 Abuja, Mr. Wahab Shina Omoniyi has emerged the North Central Zonal chairman of the Association.

He was elected during the weekend in Minna, Niger state where other executive members also emerged.

Omoniyi succeeds Mr Austin Ujah Ogirah of Benue State Branch [/b]whose tenure just ended.

In his brief address, the new chairman expressed gratitude to members of the zone for the confidence reposed in him and assured that he will not only sustain the legacy of the past administration but take the zone to greater heights.

[b]The zone comprises of six states — FCT, Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Benue, Plateau and Niger. 

Omoniyi has been piloting the affairs of FCT 1 Abuja branch for the past two years is believed to have achieved several milestones as the FCT 1 chairman especially in the areas of raising the bar of corporate social responsibility which saw more enrollment of pupils into the branch's scholarship scheme, empowerment of members with new and updated knowledge of the accounting profession.

Also he introduced e-payment system in the branch which has enhanced transparency in the management of resources as well as strengthened accountability process.

As a way of bridging information gap between members and stakeholders of the branch, he also introduced The Accountants' Voice, a biannual magazine publication of the branch which has recorded overwhelming success since inception.

A fellow of ANAN, he is expected to bring to bear his years of experience to bear in raising the bar of leadership in the zone.

Source: https://equitynews.ng/2022/10/31/just-in-omoniyi-emerges-north-central-zonal-chairman-of-anan/

All is now set for the public presentation of the children's book, 'The Legend of Buratai' and its animation film adaptation expected to have in attendance the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress APC, Bola Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and the former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi as chairman.

Also to grace the occasion as Special Guests of honour are, the Managing Director, North East Development Commission, NEDC Dr. Mohammed Alkali and the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Faruk Yahaya.

The book along with its animation film adaptation x-ray the path of bravery and a life of commitment to national service exhibited by the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd).

"The book which is already available in three volumes, was adapted for children and also into animation movie for the delight of younger Nigerians, with a view to telling/showing the path of bravery and and a life of commitment to service lived by the former COAS" says the chairman/CEO of Arojah Concept, Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo. the organisation spearheading the public presentation and preview of the animated video.

Published by Sprezzatura Publishing, publishers of the Our Nigeria Magazine, the volume 1 of ‘The Legend of Buratai’ will be presented to the public on Tuesday November 22, 2022 at the Hall 3 of the Silverbird Entertainment Centre, Abuja.

The volume 1, which is a fiction is written by Dr. Abubakar Mohammed Sanii, which is now adapted for children and animation.

“History is an important aspect of our lives. And art is one way to document it. By art, I mean literary art as in publication of books as we have done, or performative arts in terms of the animation movie or even theatre”, the author, Dr. Abubakar Mohammed Sani said.

He was also quoted to have said, “this project is not designed only to document the modest contribution of its central character, Ambassador TY Buratai to the security of Nigeria, but to communicate the many virtues found in him to the younger generations - bravery, commitment to service, selflessness and patriotism, among others.”

The volume 2 of "The Legend of Buratai" is non fiction designed for secondary Schools and undergraduates while the volume 3 written by the former Chief of Staff himself, Buratai is targeted towards Cadets and junior military officers

Source: Read more at: https://abntv.com.ng/news/tinubu-amaechi-coas-others-for-launch-of-the-book-the-legend-of-buratai

All is now set for the public presentation of the children's book, 'The Legend of Buratai' and its animation film adaptation expected to have in attendance the presidential candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress APC, Bola Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and the former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi as chairman.

Also to grace the occasion as Special Guests of honour are, the Managing Director, North East Development Commission, NEDC Dr. Mohammed Alkali and the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Faruk Yahaya.

The book along with its animation film adaptation x-ray the path of bravery and a life of commitment to national service exhibited by the former Chief of Army Staff and now Ambassador of Nigeria to the Republic of Benin, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (Rtd).


"The book which is already available in three volumes, was adapted for children and also into animation movie for the delight of younger Nigerians, with a view to telling/showing the path of bravery and and a life of commitment to service lived by the former COAS" says the chairman/CEO of Arojah Concept, Om’Oba Jerry Adesewo. the organisation spearheading the public presentation and preview of the animated video.


Published by Sprezzatura Publishing, publishers of the Our Nigeria Magazine, the volume 1 of ‘The Legend of Buratai’ will be presented to the public on Tuesday November 22, 2022 at the Hall 3 of the Silverbird Entertainment Centre, Abuja.


The volume 1, which is a fiction is written by Dr. Abubakar Mohammed Sanii, which is now adapted for children and animation.


“History is an important aspect of our lives. And art is one way to document it. By art, I mean literary art as in publication of books as we have done, or performative arts in terms of the animation movie or even theatre”, the author, Dr. Abubakar Mohammed Sani said.


He was also quoted to have said, “this project is not designed only to document the modest contribution of its central character, Ambassador TY Buratai to the security of Nigeria, but to communicate the many virtues found in him to the younger generations - bravery, commitment to service, selflessness and patriotism, among others.”

The volume 2 of "The Legend of Buratai" is non fiction designed for secondary Schools and undergraduates while the volume 3 written by the former Chief of Staff himself, Buratai is targeted towards Cadets and junior military officers

Source: https://equitynews.ng/2022/10/25/tinubu-amaechi-coas-others-for-launch-of-the-book-the-legend-of-buratai-in-abuja/

SOA

One of the accredited study centres of the Nigerian College of Accountancy, Sikiru Olaribigbe & Associates, SOA at the weekend played host to the course 27 of SOA professional students who recently concluded their 2 years course in the accounting profession.

The course 27 students are the 15th set to be graduated since the centre was licensed by the Nigerian College of Accountancy, Kwall in Plateau State, a postgraduate school owned and operated by a leading accountancy body in the country, the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN.

The freshly baked professional accountants and the management of Sikiru Olaribigbe & Associates as well as their invited guests and well wishers had a good relaxation mood away from the seriousness of academic activities and the art of figure computation at the prestigious AFRI Hotel in the heart of the nation's capital Abuja.

Addressing members of the course 27 of the centre, chairman of the occasion, Mr. Wahab Shina Omoniyi, FCNA while congratulating them sounded a note of warning that certain conducts which were in the past condoned no more have a place in the profession.

Mr. Omoniyi who doubles as the chairman of Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN FCT 1 Abuja branch urged the course 27 members to imbibe skills and competence as their watchword.

"It is only when you hold skills and competence as watchword that you can raise your head above water and broker new grounds in the noble profession, that is when you can proudly call yourself the real professional.

"It is not difficult to do, all you require is to imbibe discipline. I applaud you for enduring the rigours of the academic tasks, but this time, you need even higher competence to apply the rudiment of the practical aspect of that knowledge you have acquired" he said.

He encouraged them to hold tenaciously the ethics of the profession at all times and avoid sharp practices capable of bringing their good names to disrepute, stating that disciplinary measures will be fully activated when necessary to serve as a deterrent to others.

In his remarks, the Engagement Partner Sikiru Olaribigbe & Partners, Prince Batula Ola Sikiru who is also the centre coordinator assured that the centre will continue to be outstanding in raising thoroughbred accountants who will be the torch bearers of the profession in Nigeria and beyond.

He said the centre which started about 15 years ago has produced no fewer than 15,000 accountants who are part of the drivers of the nation's economy.

Prince Sikiru said old students of the centre have earned good names for themselves by imbibing integrity, urging the 15th set to remain its good ambassadors as they set out for their practice.

The Deputy Chief Executive Officer of ANAN in charge of Education and Training, Mr. Rahman Bello called on the graduands to make efforts to associate with one of the over 40 branches of the association across the country.

This he said will assist them in keying into the activities and programmes of the association, get fellowship nomination and other rights and privileges due to members.

Bako Salihu Usman, the class governor of course 27 said it was challenging though a rewarding experience to undertake the course.

He added that the constant journey from Abuja to Plateau State where the college is located made it even more tasking, in addition to the rigouros tests and examinations.

Highlight of the event was the symbolic handing over of candle light from course 27 to course 28 members.

Perfect

Powerful

Members of Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, ANAN FCT 1 Abuja branch on Friday brought joy and excitement in the minds of pupils and teachers of LEA Primary School, Sabo II, Karmo Abuja as they distributed materials to aid their teaching and learning.

This was part of activities marking the annual ANAN corporate social responsibility day which comes up October 14 every year.

Pupils and teachers of the school received the professional accountants with excitement but were quick to demand erection of perimeter fencing and replacement of vandalised items in some classroom blocks by hoodlums.

Head Teacher of the school, Mrs. Onukwiri Jemaimah while thanking ANAN FCT 1 members for choosing the school for their 2022 CSR day noted that their intervention is timely and crucial.

According to her, teachers sometimes are left to purchase exercise books and pens for the pupils due to failure of their parents and guardians to prepare their children and wards for study, a situation she said indicates lack of value for education.

She urged other professional bodies to take a cue from ANAN members and come to their aid with the construction of a perimeter fencing to enhance the security of pupils and staff of the school as well as replacement of the ceiling and desks in the nursery 1 and 2 block earlier donated by ANAN FCT 1 Abuja members.

A community leader and vice chairman of the PTA, Isa Yunusa while appreciating the donations assured that mechanism has been put in place to end the activities of vandals who take advantage of the porous location of the school to perpetrate criminal activities.

Yunusa said the prolonged break during COVID-19 pandemic created opportunity for criminal elements to loot the school dry, assuring that the community is poised to ending their nefarious activities.

While decrying low enrollment of pupils, he said the community will engage various stakeholders to ensure that no child of school age will be denied education.

In her remarks, the immediate past chairman of ANAN FCT 1 Abuja branch, Petu Joyce under whose watch the branch donated desks to the school years back expressed concern that insecurity is taking a toll on the school.

She called on relevant security agencies to intensify efforts in guaranteeing the safety of the pupils, staff and facility in the school.

Also speaking, chairman of ANAN FCT 1 Abuja branch, Wahab Shina Omoniyi said the branch picked LEA Primary School Karmo for its 2022 CSR day in line with efforts towards monitoring and sustaining its past projects.

The school has in the past benefitted from ANAN CSR interventions which he believes needs sustainability to achieve the desired outcome, even as some past students of the school are beneficiaries of the branch's scholarship scheme, studying in various secondary schools at the moment.

He assured that the branch will continue to offer the needed support in securing the future of young Nigerians, stating that in no distant time the branch will make efforts to replace the vandalised desks and renovate the damaged blocks to make it more conducive for academic activities.

A group, The Coalition For Civil Society Groups in Abuja has condemned the illegal closure of Obajana cement factory by the government of Kogi State, describing it as illegality taken too far.

The group insists that Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello cannot be the complainant and a judge at the same time, calling for immediate reopening of the factory while engagement continues towards amicable resolution of the impasse.

Kogi State government had on the 3rd of October, 2022 ordered the closure of the factory, saying it was once Obajana Cement owned by the State, but was not aware when it became Dangote Cement.

Among other allegation leveled by Kogi State government against Dangote cement, as enumerated by The Coalition For Civil Society Groups in Abuja include,

"That the Dangote Cement has not been doing its corporate Social Responsibility to its host community;

"That the company has not paid revenue to the State Government;

"That Alhaji Aliko Dangote, a global icon, modest business mogul, a Nigerian and one of the highest employers of labour around the globe is yet to honour the invitation of the Kogi State House of Assembly."

The group in a statement signed by Convener, Comrade Godwin Elechi says its thorough investigations and assessment indicates that Kogi State government is being economical with the truth as well as misleading the general public just to justify the illegal action.

"The fact of the matter is that the Dangote Cement in Obajana has paid revenue to the State Government to the tune of Fourteen billion Naira (N14,000,000,000). It is also an incontrovertible fact that the company has been performing its Cooperate Social Responsibilities with its host communities.

"Notable among their CSR is not only in line with international practice and standards but also, some of the Dangote CSR projects include: the provision of power supplies, donations of transformers to host community, provision of motorable and access roads, building and renovation of schools, the employment of indigenes to the various sectors of the company, scholarships and periodic bursary to students of the host community.

"In addition to that was the construction of 35 kilometres of the Kabba-Obajana road under Tax Rebate and the provision of other basic amenities to Obajana, Oyo Iwa and Apata communities" the group says.

While condemning the hasty closure of the factory by Kogi State government, The Coalition For Civil Society Groups in Abuja stated that Dangote Cement company is a legal entity established by law and recognized by law which has not caused any threat to national security that will warrant this unjust closure.

The group says the action of the state government has caused economic sabotage, youths unemployment and more hardship that has negative impacts on daily survival, the livelihood of thousands of Kogites and Nigerians who survive daily from the company.

The group therefore appealed to President Muhammadu Buhari, The Senate President Senator Ahmed Lawan, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and other critical stakeholders in the Nigerian project to intervene in this matter before things fall apart.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/group-condemns-kogi-state-govt-over-closure-of-obajana-cement-factory-says-its-illegality/

Hon. Stanley Nwaokike Vows To Inject Transparency, Openness In Representation As He Unveils Manifesto For Isialangwa North/South Fed. Constituency

As the 2023 general elections draw nearer, the leading candidate for Isialangwa North/South Fed. Constituency of Abia, Hon. Nkwachukwukwere Stanley Nwaokike has said he is in the race to end the era of corrupt and self-serving representation, assuring that if elected into the federal House of Representatives next year, he will entrench openness, transparency and people-oriented representation.

Hon. Nwaokike who is seeking election on the platform of the Social Democratic Party, SDP expressed concern that the people of Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency have been lagging behind in almost all developmental indices said he will usher in a new dawn that will reverse the years of exclusion, sabotage, visionless representation and shenanigans that have perpetually relegated the people of Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency to mere observers in the scheme of things in the country, rather than active partakers of the nation's commonwealth.

Addressing a mammoth crowd of supporters in Nbawsi Isialangwa North on Friday, the experienced businessman, administrator, youth advocate and humanitarian said time has come for the people of the Constituency to reject parties and individuals who have failed to lift their educational, infrastructural, human capital development, and other developmental burdens, stating that he will put them at the forefront in his legislative assignment and initiate policies that will better their lots.

He said, "This is a race to protect and secure our future, our destiny, the future of our children and indeed put our federal constituency in the pedestal of progress and prosperity.

"We have for a long time been cheated and short-changed, our people do not get what belongs to them from the federal level, they are not aware of what their constituency allocation is.

"We must all rise to usher in a representation that cares for our people, a representation that will empower our young men and women to be employed gainfully, make our roads motorable, save our educational institutions from further decay, care for our aged mothers and fathers.

"We will ensure that every student of Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency is entitled to a bursary that will support their academic pursuit and alleviate sufferings associated with their quest for education.

"The economy of our people will thrive, we will ensure we bring mechanical innovations into agriculture and processing of farm produce, our security will be guaranteed because under my representation, we will engage their communities and their heads.

"Under my watch as your House of Representative member, there is something for everyone and we are poised to re-writing the history of representation in this federal constituency" he said.

Hon. Nwaokike enjoys the support of young people in the Constituency who believe that one of them has what it takes to raise the bar of development in the land.

He had widely consulted where he secured the endorsement of community chiefs, traditional rulers who are supportive of a new vision for the Constituency.

He is experienced, exposed and understands the business of effective representation which he is expected to bring to bear if elected in Feb. 2023 National Assembly election.

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Happy birthday Pastor Uzor

In what appeared to be one of his golden moments, the Presiding Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministry, MFM Channel 8 North Central Region 87 Kubwa Abuja, Pastor Uzor B. Enemanna on Sunday marked his golden jubilee birthday, joining the league of those who have climbed the 5th ladder.

It was a massive gathering of friends, family and associates from across the country and beyond who had come to celebrate a man who they described as an anointed servant of God, embodiment of humility and a quintessential humanitarian.

The 50th birthday which was on September 19 was marked with a prayer, thanksgiving and supplications at MFM Channel 8 North Central Region 87 Kubwa Abuja.

Sunday, September 25 was a day for merry, fun and jubilation to celebrate the age of milestone with the mother of all birthday parties which took place at the prestigious Pattaya Event Centre in the Kubwa area of Abuja.

The event arena was filled with who is who in the intelligence sector where Pastor Uzor spent some years before heeding to God's call to serve in his vineyard.

Also present at the talk-of-the-town birthday celebration include top religious leaders, renowned entrepreneurs, academics and businessmen.

The atmosphere was electrified with excitement as the celebrant, accompanied by a long queue of well wishers made his way into the beautifully decorated hall with a standing ovation from the cheering guests.

In his welcome address, the chairman of the occasion, Elder Sunday Uye while expressing gratitude to God for the life of the celebrant described him as true servant of God who has through dedication, commitment and zeal remained outstanding even as he remains a vessel leading men to God.

He said he has known the celebrant for several years as a gentleman of indisputable integrity, loyalty, honour and result-oriented. He wished Pastor Uzor many more years of fruitfulness, uncommon favour and dreams come through.

In his goodwill message, the Senior Regional Overseer of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, International Headquarters Annex, Wuye Abuja, Pastor Edwin Etomi extolled Pastor Uzor for his resilience, doggedness and ability to provide solutions to seemingly difficult situations.

The goodwill messages were in total agreement to the fact that the humble and committed God's servant, counselor, teacher and preacher is a man of peace who had impacted several lives not only in the spiritual affairs but in things of the physical, particularly through empowerment.

It was a festival of dance as the celebrant thrilled his guests with his dance steps.

Presentation of a brief biography of the celebrant and drama presentation from pantomime group were highlights of the event.

Pastor Uzor while thanking all those who came from far and wide to celebrate him on his golden jubilee birthday prayed for God's endless blessings, loads of testimony and uncommon favour upon them.

He expressed gratitude to God for a good life, destiny fulfillment, miracles of healing and restoration, ministerial breakthrough and God's faithfulness all round to him and his entire family.

The revered man of God also used the opportunity to call on individuals to learn to appreciate God's presence in their lives and celebrate themselves time to time while alive, saying such is a recipe of longitivity and good living.

There was enough to go round to minister to the stomach needs and quench the thirst of numerous guests in attendance.

Brief Profile of Pastor Uzor Enemanna

Uzor Boniface Enemanna, a minister, pastor, counselor, teacher and prophet was born into the family of Mazi Sunday Amaechi in Ebeyi Nvosi community, Isialangwa South local government area of Abia State on the 19th of September 1972.

He started his primary education at Ebeyi Nvosi Community school in the year 1977 after which he gained admission for his secondary education at Nvosi High School Umunkpeyi.
As a promising child, full of brilliance, determination and focus, he saw no limit to how far he could go in life and this accounts to why he gave his all to come out in flying colours at his secondary education, in readiness for a further academic pursuit in the tertiary institution.

He had fun memory of University of Lagos, UNILAG a citadel of learning from where his uncle, Hyacinth Enemanna graduated from. He had always dreamt of being a product of an A-class university.

This same vision led him to take a trip to Lagos to prepare for his Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, JAMB Examination, his very first attempt to have his UNILAG dream actualised.

This could not be immediately achieved as a result of an ASUU strike at that moment, a problem which is still right here with us over 3 decades later.

It was on this premise therefore that the young Uzor relocated to Abuja in search of a job, hoping that sooner, the school doors will re-open to admit fresh students.

While the strike lingered, in 1995 he was enlisted as a detective in the State Security Service, DSS now known as Department of State Service, DSS and posted to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State where he served.

In 1996, he secured admission as a part time student in University of Uyo to study Political Science and Public Administration.

However as a result of unfavourable and harsh policy introduced by the Akwa Ibom command of the service at that moment, he knew fate had something else in stock for him.
In 1999 he tendered his resignation and relocated back to Abuja in 2000.

With a new vision, vigour and determination, he committed his all to God in whom he anchored his fate and stay. In 2001, he was employed as a guard supervisor in Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministry Utako Abuja.

Through the grace of God and assistance of his adopted mentors, Pastor Lawrence Olaseinde and Pastor Mrs. Kasali of blessed memory, he grew in faith and in ranks, rising to become an anointed minister in God's vineyard.

Ever since his calling blossomed and took its full glorious swing, he has never looked back. Pastor Uzor as many would call him has humbly and committedly served under the tutelage of several senior pastors and Regional Overseers.

Among them are Pastors Wole Dahunsi, Adeolu Muyiwa, Olumide Oni, Edwin Etomi, Philip Olanrewaju, Pst Oladimeji and several others.

In the course of his ministerial calling, he has served in various branches, including MFM international headquarters Annex Utako as a minister, North Central Region 5, Kubwa as deliverance pastor, Assembly Pastor, Zonal pastor (Special duties) and Overseer in charge of Foreign mission/Special duties.

In MFM Zuba, the anointed servant of God whom we have gathered here today to celebrate was the branch pastor before his current branch, MFM Channel 8 North Central Region 87 Kubwa where he is serving as the presiding Overseer.

Through his humble disposition, humanness, kindness and ability to see the challenges of others as his, he has so much endeared himself to his flocks as a shepherd everywhere he serves.

He accepts NO for an answer, as he sees opportunities where others see limitations and strength to surge on where others see obstacles. As a mentor and counselor, an encounter with Pastor Uzor must have a visible impact in your life.

He has overwhelmingly enjoyed the support, good will and love of the people he serves in various ways and this he has remained grateful for. Most importantly, God's anointed hand has ceaselessly guided his footsteps in the ministry.

He is a proud holder of diploma in Political Science and Public Administration and B.Sc in Economics from the University of Abuja and currently pursuing his Masters Degree.

He has attended several local and international trainings since his foray in the Christian ministry.

Source: https://abntv.com.ng/news/amidst-loads-of-pop-and-pageantry-excitement-pastor-uzor-marks-50th-birthday/

Congratulations ma