₦airaland Forum

November 25 every year is designated International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the United Nation System together with United Nation’s Women is joining hands with vitims, activists, decision-makers, and people from all walk of life, to beam light on the need for proper funding of essential agencies for the prevention and data collection of violence against women.

This year’s theme for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is tagged “Orange the World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect!”. Like in previous years, this year's International Day will mark the launch of 16 days of activism that will conclude on 10 December 2020, which is International Human Rights Day.

Honorable Nkeiruka Onyejeocha made a case for women saying, “We must all recall, women played crucial role in the achievements and initiation of additional commitments and the mobilisation of Member States on the issue of ending violence against women.”

The Deputy Chief Whip House of Representatives further emphasized that the day will be to honour women’s organizations as first responders and to acknowledge their leadership roles in ending violence; and Activate United Nation’s wide mobilization under the umbrella of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign for the promotion of zero tolerance across all spheres of society including Nigeria.

Worries that the Violence against women and girls (VAWG) is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations in our world today it is largely unreported due to the impunity, silence, stigma and shame surrounding it.

Further pointing out that VAWG manifest itself in physical, sexual and psychological forms, which includes:intimate partner violence (battering, psychological abuse, marital rape, femicide);sexual violence and harassment (rape, forced sexual acts, unwanted sexual advances, child sexual abuse, forced marriage, street harassment, stalking, cyber- harassment) human trafficking (slavery, sexual exploitation);female genital mutilation; and child marriage.

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha believes that in commemoration of this year international Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, there is an urgent need to call on Government and relevant stakeholders, to develop action plans to Gender responsive investment to expand basic public education, infrastructure, health care and security in rural areas.

In conclusion, the Deputy Chief Whip urged the Federal, State and Local Government to galvanize action plan to support the Elimination of violence against women in Nigeria.

In the moment of truth and reality, appraising excellence is a motivating tool for an achiever.

Madam, celebrating and honoring your great exemplary leadership role in your constituency, state and the nation at large amidst public service challenges is a reflective inspiration for leaders to engage more in direct human developmental projects and programmes.

My family and I join millions of Nigerians in prayers and celebration as we expect more from a woman who has dedicated her life to serving her people.

Rt Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, a peace loving and compassionate woman who has in time proven that governance can have a human face.

I am very proud of you and your achievements so far. Thank you for your selfless dedicated aura to serve the people, it has paid off and we are grateful.

I pray for God's guidance and wisdom to propel you towards greater achievements all year round.

Wishing you the best of what life's goals and sustained success in your career and livelihood.

Happy Birthday to the Pride of Women.

Adaora Onyechere
Head, Women and Gender Affairs Cluster Committee AU-ECOSOCC

I congratulate president-elect Joe Biden and vice president-elect Kamala Harris of the United States.

It was a fiercely run election but the American people, in whose hands lie the ultimate power to elect, spoke through the ballot.

The emergence of Harris as the first female vice president of the US speaks clearly and resoundingly to one of our world's most urgent yearning - equality, and particularly the need to give equal opportunities to everyone irrespective of gender or race.

Under your presidency, I look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship particularly in the area of Security and trade, and with Kamala Harris a collaboration that emboldens women’s rights as first human rights, a demystification of the stereotypical bureaucracies that hinder women from running for office in Nigeria by calling for deliberate implementation of policies as signed between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the United States of America.

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha
Deputy Chief Whip
House of Representatives

The African Union ECOSOCC Nigeria led by the Country Representative, Dr Tunji Asaolu and his team paid a courtesy visit to The Deputy Chief Whip, Rt. Honorable Nkeiruka Onyejeocha to look at the issues and areas of deepening impact through deliberate gender budgeting and financial inclusion for women and girl child.

The Deputy Chief Whip was quite excited as this is an area of deep concern to her and where she particularly giving attention especially as the oversight functions have began for MDAs.

She emphasized the news for MDAs to see gender budgeting and financial inclusion as a necessity and the only way to enhance national development, helping women to maximize their capacities especially at the rural level.

She further commended the African Union for taking a step further by signing the financial, economic, social and political instrument and MoU on mainstreaming women with the ministry of Women Affairs, which will also be further domesticated across the 36 states.

She also assured to do all she can to see that the awareness and advocacy is done at the legislature in other to look at reviewing existing laws to look into this as an important area and the to implement policies that will have more women in governance.

In attendance was also the Head Women affairs and Gender for the African Union Ecososc Nigeria Adaora Onyechere.

#WomenInPolitics #financialinclusion #Nigeria #africanunion

- reiterates commitment to attract more Dividends of Democracy to Isuikwuato and Umunneochi Communities

The Member Representing Isuikwuato /Umunneochi Federal Constituency and the Deputy Chief Whip House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria Rep Barr Nkeiruka Onyejeocha last week embarked on a 3day (31-10-2020/2-11-2020) Tour in her Constituency to inspect ongoing Projects attracted by her and ascertain the level of work done.

The Deputy Chief Whip HoR made the first stop at Oghoghe/Urualla Ohukabi Aligbara/Ohukabi Ndijibe in Oguduasa, Isuikwuato Local Government Erosion Project Site that was handed over to the Contractor, Messrs Foldams Engineering Company Limited on Friday, July 17th, 2020 by the Permanent Secretary the Ecological Fund Office (EFO), Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Dr Habiba Lawal.

Retrospectively, this Road was drastically divided by erosion and endangered lives and properties. Motorist encountered difficulties accessing the road.

As at her visit, work is massively ongoing coupled with a defined standard. She commended the Contractor for good job and well timing.

The Federal Law Maker further visited Amuta Road in Isuikwuato and was well pleased with the level of work done.

Rep Onyejeocha stressed that this road in particular has vast land mass and will be of great Economic importance to her Constituents and the state at large if completed within a short time.

She equally commended the Female Contractor handling the road for sticking to the contract specifications, noting that Drainage System is up to standard.

Speaking earlier, , the Member Representing Isuikwuato State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly Hon Barr. Emeka Okoroafor who is also among the inspection team stated that he is not surprised that the Honourable Member is living up to expectations and fulfilling the promises she made during the campaigns, having known her as a politician who is true to her words.

Barr Okoroafor described the road project as an important one for the community. He assured the Deputy Chief Whip of the continued support of the people of Amuta community and Isuikwuato in general and wished her well in all her endeavours.

Truly, In God We Trust!

#MyPeopleMyPride
#IsuikwuatoUmunneochi

She did well. Make we encourage our own

Christianokaro:
Well said Sally,

I published it immediately as I see the content

toscolee:
Seun
Lalasticlacla
Front page worthy please.
We all need to be good at helping in such circumstances.

I'm Honest, smart and i detest HYPOCRISY and BIGOTRY

That is you above right... You're the definition of BIGOTRY.

GIdiata:
shey na man wey wear wig?

1. Avoid judgement: Desist from encouraging rape culture by asking questions such as “why did it take you so long to speak” ,”what were you wearing”.

2. If still within the time of incident,encourage and assist the person to report to the nearest police station and check into a hospital.

3. Respect: It is important to respect their feelings and their decisions. Let them cry if they feel like,it can be part of their healing process.

4. Listen: Do not be in a hurry to offer input, allow them go through the process of sharing their story.

5. Encourage them to seek professional counseling services. Nigeria currently has 22 Sexual Assault Referral Centers (SARCs)

Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, member representing Isukwato/Umuneochi constituency of Abia state hosted widows from various part of her constituent.

To further incorporate and allow inclusion for all, Hon. Onyejeocha gathered widows from various communities in her constituency to engage them on their plight and to seek resolution to range challenges facing the women in these communities.

Majorly, the engagement was a practical move to hear from these women what poses greater challenges to their well being and working towards empowering a huge population of them.

It was both a moment of reflection while urging the women to keep faith and stand strong by their belief to advance the place of women in Abia state and Nigeria.

Earlier today the house member representing the people of Isukwato/Umueochi, Abia State, Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha who is also the Deputy Chief Whip, House of Representative, inaugurated what she termed 'The Youth Disciples'.

In her words, Youth must be able represented and made to align with their chosen skills to become change agents in the society. She further further emphasized on the need for youths to take their destiny into consideration when they are called upon to make a difference in the society.

The event witnessed several praises from the youths, who were of great words to express their feelings over this ever important gathering that was fused with tools to expand their horizon and be better off to the country.

A prayer meeting was held in Abia state on Thursday 29, October 2020, were women from different villages gathered to speak to God on issues affecting the state and forge a way forward while laying their challenges to the Deputy Chief Whip of House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.

The event started with an opening prayer, backed up with worship and it continued in praises, the place was full of joy, immediately after the dancing and celebrating, it continued with prayers, and then the Deputy Chief Whip gave a charge to pray for the state, and the country as a whole.

In progression, there was a brief charge, prophetic declarations and also prayers by the pastor who was representing the General overseer of mountain of fire, Dr olukoya.

After that, Hon. Onyejeocha gave a brief speech in respect of things that has been done in recent times to provide employment for the community and Youths, and stated those that are to be done.

Before concluding the event, she held a meeting with the Abia central women leaders of APC. It was a time to share opinions and unveiling requests from their various community and the Deputy Chief Whip granted them all.

The Deputy Chief Whip House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria / the Member Representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency Rep Barr Nkeiruka Onyejeocha on Friday 30th or October after the Monthly Prayer Meeting visited Umuada Ngodo Gully Erosion Site that leads to Obulo Eziama Nneato in Umuneochi LGA with the HQ Nigerian Army Engineers for immediate Reconstruction.

It will interest you to note that the road will lead to the already constructed and rehabilitated road in Nneato that was attracted and commissioned by the People’s Representatives on July 18, 2020.

Yesterday remains and marks a said tale in the history of our nation.

The blood of young Nigerians spilled with no recourse to consequences thereafter.

As a mother, it was troubling to watch sights of innocent, harmless citizens being shot at by the very bullets that should protect our territorial integrity against external aggression.

I am sadden, in pain and it is obligatory for me to speak out against this act of insensitivity and tactlessness against already deprived citizens who merely exercised their constitutionally guaranteed rights to peaceful express their frustration, pain, agony and suffering.

It is heartbreaking seeing our national flag, the symbol of our sovereignty being soiled by the blood of those whom the state refers to as our leaders of tomorrow.

It is also in strong words I condemn every form of criminality by the protesters, We as a country must retreat for what is happening in these times is against the run of play of my conscience and convictions.

We are in mourning, a painful one, our children are now late before our own eyes. We must not throw caution to the wind.

It is time to heal our land and make it flourish.

Our parents and families who have lost their loved once to this avoidable incident, I am sorry. My heart and prayers are with you at this unfortunate time.

Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha
Member, Representing Isukwato/Umueochi, Abia State
Deputy Chief Whip,
House of Representative

Can you tell your mother shut up before addressing an issue.

If your destiny is worth just kerosene during campaigns and not securing a future for all, then your challenges are precarious to say the least.

muykem:
This woman should shut up. Ikpeazu is the best, he shared kerosene to almost everybody and people gave him landslide victory. Igbo have rejected APC evil for ikpeazu kerosene.

An Igbo civil and social cultural group, the Concerned People of Abia Home and Abroad in a statement has issued a vote of no confidence on Governor Okezie Ikpeazu's administration owing to the continued decay of the state and waste of collective resources.

The President of the group Chief Fidelis Anyanwu while calling on all Abia citizens to continue speaking truth to power as the administration of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has not in any way improve the livelihood of the people.

Read the statement below;
“It is has become worrisome that the chief executive officer of our dear Abia state has gone into his periodic annual slumber owing to the fact that many have come to realize we have no government in Abia state.

The Okezie Ikepazu led administration has not only thrown caution to the win but called every questioning voice bluff with incessant intimidation and media war by his aides who gather young minds together subjecting them to peanuts hacking and wasting their future away all in the name of image laundering.

Most roads that the government started are yet to be completed apart from Ominyi drive and a few others. Even the road leading to the governor’s village, Ururuka from Obikabia Junction is yet to be completed.

On environment protection, the state government has not been able to tackle the issue of environmental sanitation in the state. The problem of gabbage disposal in the commercial city of Aba remains intractable.

Aba is still dirty and this has been blamed on the poor funding of ASEPA, the agency responsible for refuse disposal in the state. The agency lacks adequate gabbage disposal equipment, vehicles, staff and other logistics to properly carry out its duties.

Workers welfare is hit an all-time low in many agencies and parastatals in the state: For example, Abia Polytechnic workers and staff of state university teaching hospital went on Christmas break without pay as they are being owed seven months salaries.

Similarly, local government workers and staff of the state broadcasting media outfit, BCA, have not been paid for about months.

The governor has not done anything noticeable in the health sector. The state University Teaching Hospital is almost comatose. The primary health care service is in a poor and shabby condition across the state.

The CPA, at this time in all sense of responsibility and service to pursue the best approach to bring about developmental projects to our people and not the sham, schemes and optics employed by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, we hereby after NEC resolution pass a vote of no confidence on this administration.

We call on all well-meaning citizens of Abia state to begin that mental shift of godfatherism politics to considering the effectiveness of casting our votes for proven competence and directional strategy to forge Abia ahead.

We remain resolute and believe that the Abia we desire will surely come while we are still breathing. God bless Abia state.

Your sincerely
President, CPA

Message from The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha on this day of the International Day for Rural. Woman

Throughout history women have been mistreated - up till this day women suffer harsh and inhumane treatment through to continuing discrimination in the workplace. Focusing legislations, attention and effort on the way forward, reconciling discrimination through encouraging awareness and banding together to affect positive change is all part of what International Women's Day stands for.

Today, October 15 is set aside as the International Rural Women's Day, the call for justice across the world still prevails as women seek equal treatment, conditions and opportunities to that of men.

Rural women must be incorporated into our policy making and empowered with the ideals and the idea that all people have the right to be valued, respected and receive ethical treatment.

We must ensure in our dispositions and actions towards the rural women in our society ensuring all people have equal opportunities to make the most of their lives and talents, and that no one has poorer life chances due to their background or status - the very core of International Women's Day.

Gender Equality in reality refers to women receiving and accessing the same opportunities and benefits as men - but throughout history, women were deemed to have no place in politics. Most of this women couldn't stand as candidates for Parliament and they weren't allowed to vote as it has been assumed husbands would take responsibility for political matters because a woman's role was seen to be child-rearing and taking care of the home.

Strength in numbers and voice are critical in driving change. As we all can recall that the International Women's Day was founded on collaboration, and continues to be a key element of its power to this day. Across the world individuals and groups must unite, not only to celebrate the achievements of women, but to continue to call for action supporting greater gender parity.

We must begin to pay considerable attention and effort to forging the rights of women. Around the world today, as in the past, exists an extensive number of groups and networks all working to improve the social, economic, cultural and political status of women - and International Women's Day is the major day for rallying action, driving visibility and applauding women who make a difference through their achievements.

Today, not only as the Deputy Chief Whip house of Representatives but one of you, I celebrate the success, and appreciative of the role Nigerian rural women play in contributing to society. As always, I pledge to continue bringing to fore awareness and legislations to improve the expectation that women will not be marginalised, discriminated against or absent from future successes moving forward.

That in commemoration of this year international Day For rural women. There is an urgent call on Government and relevant stakeholders, to develop attention to Gender responsive investment to expand basic Adult education, infrastructure, health care and security in rural areas.

Wishing all our rural women across Nigeria, A Happy International Day for the Rural Women.

Rt. Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha
Member, Representing Isukwato/Umueochi, Abia State
Deputy Chief Whip,
House of Representative

As the world celebrates this year’s International Day of the Girl child, The Mental well-being of the Girl child and Girls living with disabilities must be prioritized and adequate resources deployed to maximize interventions needed to create an enabling environment for them to attain their full potential and optimize their capacities.

In Nigeria, an estimated 20%–30% of our population are believed to suffer from mental disorders. This is a very significant number considering Nigeria has an estimated population of over 200 million. Presently, there are only 130 psychiatrists in Nigeria, which has a population of 200 million and counting.

Schools were closed as part of necessary measures to curtail the spread of Covid-19 and that means children may no longer have that sense of structure and stimulation that is provided by that environment, and now they have less opportunity to be with their friends and get that social support that is essential for good mental well-being.


The realities are staring us in the face and begging for action.

Hence, more proactive moves must be made to put legislations that will further prepare and enhance the mental health and educational sector of our country in order to aid the mental well-being of our children especially the girl child.

As a legislator and ranking officer at the House of Representatives for Nigeria, I strongly advocate and insist that It is crucial to keep making demands on institutional collaboration towards finding justice for victims of child abuse and sexual and Gender-based violence irrespective of the laws been made because it takes strategic collaborations to curb the monstrous and inhuman acts against the girl child who is often the victim of such acts.


As a pointer, the recent budget presented by the President at the National Assembly on the 8th of October 2020 must be tailored towards prioritized interventions, whilst also taking into cognizance the need for financial inclusion when it comes to issues affecting women, children, girls and also ensuring that MDAs take into consideration gender budgeting during their budgeting cycle and implementation.

#My Voice #Our Equal Future the theme for the United Nations International day of the girl child this October 11th 2020, should not only be a much needed narrative but a proof that the right actions must be taken to ensure and insure the future of the girl child.

Happy International Day of the Girl child

Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Deputy Chief Whip, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria

The Convener, Revolution Now, Former Presidential Candidate and Founder of Saraha reporters will be Talk2Adaora on KissFM today discussing POLICE BRUTALITY and rising issues in Nigeria after 60years.

The show kicks off by pm, Today, Tuesday, 6th Oct. 2020

Host is seasoned Broadcast Jouranlist, Adaora Onyechere

Studio Numbers: 09030000899 or 08099987770

Powered by: WeWe Network Afrique, Signature Heels Media

Talk2Adaora... Leaves you at the edge of your seat

TOGETHER WE SHALL”

An October 1st Goodwill message to Nigerians as Nigeria celebrates her independence anniversary and her 60th Birthday.

From Honorable Nkeiruka Onyejeocha
Deputy Chief Whip
Nigeria’s House of Representatives.


My Dearest Nigerian Citizens,

Every October 1, We celebrate Independence Day as the national festival of Nigeria. This Day marks the anniversary of national independence from the British Government on October 1, 1960.

COVID-19 has indeed changed the tides of event in our nation as other global communities.
Yet through it all the resolve of the people in all sense of humanity has kept us going, the perseverance through these trying period has seen us rise above the travesty of the COVID19 and also given us a greater urgency at emphasizing the need to put nationhood first, through the sacrifice of various organs of government working together to keep us ahead of challenges brought by the COVID19 pandemic.

Post pandemic and the anniversary of our independence - a very important day in our history and in the hearts of every Nigerian citizen and as a nation, we celebrate this day with the full spirit of patriotism.

As a sovereign state, our country has the power to uphold the torch of a great country by taking deliberate steps to lead by example, maximize the role of the voice of the people.

The Future of our country hinges on our unity, resilience and the sacrifices we make as a purpose driven generation.

The Nigerian youth must never give up nor cultivate the notion or accept the conviction that all is not well with the nation but garner ideas activated towards nation building whilst focusing on those areas that progressively gives us the opportunity to grow as a nation.

This year's theme; "Together we shall" is a call and charge for all of us both to put nationhood first before self, knowing fully well that united we stand and divided we fall.

It's a new day to remember our strides as a nation and the echoes that should resonate from the cities to the hinterland is a message of togetherness.

Truly, my fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and our beloved children, as a mother, I stand positive, reassured in the strength in our diversity for that is what makes us a prosperous people, a people full of potential and led by their resilience to excel and in the complete resolution that Together we shall" triumph.

Happy 60th independence Anniversary

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.


Yours Truly
Honorable Nkeriuka Onyejeocha
Representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State.

Deputy Chief Whip
Nigeria’s House of Representatives.

The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha has called on the Abia State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to intensify its opposition status in the state.

Onyejeocha who is the Member Representing Isuikwuato-Umunneochi Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives also described the Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu -led administration in Abia State as clueless and totally unconcerned about the yearnings of the people.

She made the statement in her country home of Isuochi, in the Umunneochi Local Government Area of the state when the APC Abia State Working Committee led by the Chairman, Hon. Donatus Nwankpa continued their tour of the 17 LGAs with a Town Hall Meeting at Umunneochi LGA.

The Green Chamber Deputy Chief Whip thanked the party Exco for adopting the strategy of Town Hall Meeting, stressing that the move has rekindled the hope of people that the APC is now very serious to effect the necessary change in Abia.

Onyejeocha charged them to speak against the bad governance of the Okezie Ikpeazu led administration, stressing that the Umunneochi LGA has been excluded from benefiting from any state government projects.

"When the government is bad, it affects everybody and when it's good everybody benefits no matter the party. So, your visit has rekindled our hope. Prior to this visit, many people thought that APC is just a branch of PDP because we were not providing viable opposition.

"We're behaving as if the government of the state will understand that after the election that it's governance. But it's quite unfortunate that the present government in Abia State doesn't have a clue of what governance is.

"And the party in the Federal started to govern the people by bringing the dividends of Democracy. So, there's this disconnect from the state because we're not getting anything. For instance, yesterday the Executive of the state passed some resolutions and approved some road projects.

"It's sad to tell you that Umunneochi was excluded. And Umunneochi is part of Abia. They did it before, my LGA was not included and yesterday again, they repeated it. I was expecting the party to come up strongly to say this is wrong. We're the opposition and we must provide that viable opposition.

"There's no gainsaying that the party in the state has underperformed, they do not care about governance, they're playing politics with the welfare of Abians," she said.

She advised all APC members to get ready for strong opposition politics, saying, "If any member of APC thinks that PDP will hand over power to us, then the person is joking. Powers are taken.

"Nobody hands power to anybody. I believe the party should come out strongly and provide the needed opposition. Having suffered what we suffered in 2019, I believe by 2023, we should be ready to force those people out of the government house."

She noted that the state government's inability to perform has shifted the role of Federal Legislators from the state, who are now expected to perform Executive duties as against their primary duty of lawmaking.

"This government has made people's representatives in the parliament ls to begin to work as if they're Executive. We're not the Executive arm of government. We're just lawmakers.

"The state is collecting money every month for Ecological Fund issues. Go and verify from the ministry of finance. I come from a place where the Ecological problem is so intense and yet the governor has not found it necessary to do even a kilometer road or solve one Ecological problem and yet the party is watching.

"No matter what anybody thinks, we're from Abia and we're representing the people and we're in Abuja. Even if I'm the Senate president or the speaker of the House of Representatives, what I'll bring to you cannot be quantified with what your state Governor can bring.

"The State government is having your funds and the funds will go to units if they're doing projects, but the senate president cannot do much. What the person is going to bring is Federal Government projects in budget.

"But the point is this, somebody is holding your wealth, he's not paying salaries, he's owing pensioners so, if you're Senate president how will you help to pay pensioners in your state and how will you pay people who are being owed salaries?

"How will whatever you're bringing build Hospitals in the 17 LGAs, how will it take the youths off the streets? How will it create employment? So, even if you're a Minister, all you may bring will be 20 percent or 30 percent and we're leaving 70 percent for people to do."

Speaking on the December 19, 2020 Abia LGA election, Onyejeocha urged APC in Umunneochi to show that they have the numbers and do the needful.

"I don't know how we can watch people write the results of local governments we belong to. I don't know how we approve of our attitude that people should bring anybody to come and occupy our LGA seats while the constitution frowns at it. We must show them we have the numbers and people who can win."

Abia APC Chairman, Hon. Donatus Nwankpa while speaking thanked Onyejeocha for all her achievements for the people of her constituency, her empowerment programmes, as well as her leadership contribution to the party.

The Lagos State Task Force team on Human Trafficking and SGBV has been inaugurated by The Governor of Lagos State Sanwo Olu.

Sanwo-olu assured the Director General, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons(NAPTIP), Dame Julie Okah-Donli of his administration’s commitment and resilience towards the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence.

The Governor reaffirmed that Lagos amongst one of the leading states who have domesticated the Child’s right act and VAPP, will not relent until the scourge is rid of and Offenders prosecuted accordingly.

The Director General, NAPTIP emphasized on the need for the state governments to continue to support the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence and she thanked the Lagos state government for always been proactive.

The Lagos State Task Force team on Human Trafficking and SGBV has been inaugurated by The Governor of Lagos State Sanwo Olu.

Sanwo-olu assured the Director General, National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons(NAPTIP), Dame Julie Okah-Donli of his administration’s commitment and resilience towards the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence.

The Governor reaffirmed that Lagos amongst one of the leading states who have domesticated the Child’s right act and VAPP, will not relent until the scourge is rid of and Offenders prosecuted accordingly.

The Director General, NAPTIP emphasized on the need for the state governments to continue to support the fight against Human trafficking and Sexual and Gender Based Violence and she thanked the Lagos state government for always been proactive.

Been hanging with my friend and brother, His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan for the last 3 days. I just love this beautiful, peaceful ancient city with all its majesty, tradition and history.

Each time I come here I feel nothing but joy and nostalgia for the past. I lived here many years ago as a child from the age of 4 to 6 when my father of blessed memory was Deputy Premier of the old Western Region.

As a matter of fact I am staying in Government House, in the old Governors lodge on the hill overlooking the city, right next door to where we used to live when he was Deputy Premier.

Brings back so many memories and particularly that of the night of January 15th 1966 when the first coup took place and soldiers came to our house to arrest and abduct my father. What a night of horror that was! I shall never forget it.

I have had a great time here over the last few days and some much needed rest. The tour of the state is going very well and we will see more projects, sites and industries in Oyo state tomorrow. We will visit Ogbomosho, Oyo and other great ancient towns in this state before rounding up.

I love being home in the South West and I really have missed my people.

His Excellency, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha in his first outing since the Supreme Court saga on January 14, 2020, attended the Eleventh Synod of the Diocese of Abuja at St. James Church Asokoro Abuja this day, Saturday 25th, July, 2020.

The first session of the Eleventh Synod was an introspection of our times in Nigeria and how we are able to forge on in view of the right spiritual and ethical principles in these post Covid-19 period.

The event which was themed: Building on the sure foundation focusing on the biblical notes from the book of (1 Corinthians 3:11-13) which had Most Rev'd. Henry Ndukuba, the host and Primate of Nigeria, charging both elected officials of the Synod and church council to be prudent at spending and selfless at serving.

The Chairman of the Launch of The Bishop’s Charge atSaint James Church Asokoro Abuja, Rt. Hon Emeka Ihedioha in his speech gave gratitude to God for keeping his life and protecting his family through the Coronavirus pandemic, charged those present and Nigerians to stay safe during this pandemic and pledged his full support to the Diocese while delivering the pledges of Edo state Governor, Godwin Obaseki and PDP Chairman, Uche Secondus.

Construction of the Obudu International Airport in Cross River state has received further impetus as the five host communities where the project is sited have declared their absolute support for the project.

This is even as Governor Ben Ayade disclosed that the Airport, when completed, will boost the state's economy through export of ornamental flowers and other resources found in abundance in Northern Cross River.

The communities; Atiekpe, Ikwuomkwu, Igwo, Okamibi and Abonkib made the declaration Monday in their separate presentations during an interactive session with the governor at the project site.

The five communities disclosed that in view of the enormous economic spinoffs that will be derived from the construction of the airport, they freely donated their land to the state government.

Most of the youths that turned out for the meeting displayed several placards with messages of support for the governor and the projects.

"We are extremely proud that Igwo is one of the communities that donated land for this project. We are happy that in our life time, Igwo will be hosting an airport. This airport will bring jobs and development to our people. We are grateful to His Excellency," a representative of the Igwo community said in his presentation.

On his part, the Councilor for Obudu Urban Ward 2, Honorable Emmanuel Akomaye stated that contrary to insinuations, the land was not acquired by government, but was freely given.

"Nobody forced us to give up our land. Our land was not acquired by government for this airport project, it was freely given," Akomaye said.

On his part, the Clan Head of Abonkib in Obudu Urban 1, His Royal Highness, Augustine Ikashi, said the people were fully behind airport project.

The royal father said the project when completed will bring development to the area.

"It is not because the governor is our own son, but because we need development, because we love progress, therefore, we are fully behind the airport project. We believe it will bring development to the entire community.

"I think the project is the only good thing that has happened to Obudu and Cross River State. So if we have this International airport, Obudu is going to be on the world's map."

Responding Governor Ayade disclosed that the state government has so far paid N500 million as compensation to the communities that donated their land for the project.

He expressed optimism that in no distant future, the airport will be completed and operational as the federal government has already given the necessary approvals.

His words: "We are right here at the site of an international cargo airport in Obudu, Cross River State. The intention of this airport is to provide cargo support services and export of ornamental and special flowers from the Obudu Cattle Ranch. As you are well aware, a country like Kenya does average of 39 million Euros annually exporting flower from an altitude even less than that of Obudu cattle ranch.

"So for Cross River State, we need to have an airport here to be able to assist us take advantage of the Obudu cattle ranch. More so Obudu Cattle Ranch is a beautiful place of nature which has been heavily under utilised because of access. So we are building an airport that can allow us benefit from the full potentials of the ranch."

Continuing, Ayade stated that the airport will also help create access to the rich agricultural potentials of Northern Cross River to the world.

"We have very very essential elements to find which is the agricultural heritage of Cross River State and with all the precious stones available to us, the cargo airport will be very critical"

On the land donated by the Obudu communities for the project, the governor said: “N500 million has been paid and the work is going on. And as you can see the communities are celebrating, they are excited that I have come here in person to speak to them and hear their concerns with a view to addressing them.

"Every single contributing village here today is excited about the potential of this airport. And we have also received the approval from the Federal Ministry of Aviation already. We have all the necessary approvals and construction work is on going. We are working very hard to see that this airport is ready by the close of this year.”

Earlier, the Cross River state Commissioner for Aviation, Dr Jacob Otu Enyia disclosed that the airport runway will be the longest in the country at 5.6km.

"We have also been able to remove the top soil and the next phase will see us go into filling to attain the required level as requested by the consultant," the Commissioner quipped.

Your Excellency, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, our amiable leader, news of you and your family members testing negative for COVID 19, has brought so much joy to Delta and Nigeria.

The state was more united in their resolve to stand with their governor the people's servant.

The scourge of this pandemic has proven to spare no one, we must key into the admonishing words of the masses oriented governor, "I appeal to all residing in Delta to obey all instructions/ regulations in our collective fight to stop the transmission of the virus...

We must not fail to flatten the curve of this ravaging novel virus in our state.

My role model, you're a good man, soft spoken and a free giver. You're humane to say the least. As the recovery in the state house continues, we welcome you back as we know you're set to activate your unwavering dexterity in the work place.

We pray for Peace and healthy living in our state.

Stay Safe... Take responsibility. Covid-19 is real.

Hon. Taleb Tebite JP
Chairman
Delta State Urban Water Cooperation

In the moment of truth and reality, appraising excellence is a motivating tool for an achiever.

Sir, celebrating and honoring your great exemplary leadership role in the state and the nation at large amidst you and your wife testing positive to Covid-19 is a reflective inspiration for leaders to engage more in direct human developmental projects and programmes.

My family and I join millions of Deltans in prayers as we expect the speedy recovery of our first citizens in Delta State.

Your Excellency, Ifeanyi Okowa, a peace loving and compassionate Governor who has in time proven that governance can have a human face.

I am very proud of you and your achievements so far. Thank you for your selfless dedicated aura to serve the people, it has paid off and we are grateful.

I pray for God's guidance and wisdom to propel you towards greater achievements all year round.

Wishing you the best of what life's goals and sustained success in your career and livelihood.

Wishing you and the first lady a quick recovery.

Hon. Taleb Tebite JP
Chairman
Delta State Urban Water Cooperation

You’re an amazing leader and Crossriverians are proud of you. A leader not only shows the way but also walks the way with the team, that you've proved over time.

You've exhibited an excellent and outstanding abilities of leadership and the state is so lucky to have an understanding, humane persona like you.

Working with a superlative leader like you has left me with the best experience of my sojourn - a great inspiration for me - that will keep modifying human relations and leadership.

Your leadership style has been devulge of favoritism, incompetence and of all inclusivity around human developmental projects has been the prerogative guidance to the various key success witnessed in the state.

Thank you for all your support. You're a worthy leader.

HON TALEB TEBITE JP

You’re an amazing leader and Crossriverians are proud of you. A leader not only shows the way but also walks the way with the team, that you've proved over time.

You've exhibited an excellent and outstanding abilities of leadership and the state is so lucky to have an understanding, humane persona like you.

Working with a superlative leader like you has left me with the best experience of my sojourn - a great inspiration for me - that will keep modifying human relations and leadership.

Your leadership style has been devulge of favoritism, incompetence and of all inclusivity around human developmental projects has been the prerogative guidance to the various key success witnessed in the state.

Thank you for all your support. You're a worthy leader.

HON TALEB TEBITE JP

Africa Young Special Advisers Initiative invites you to her webinar; SGBV A STATE OF EMERGENCY: THE ROLE OF YOUNG FEMALE SPECIAL ADVISERS IN IMPLEMENTING THE VAPP ACT.

20th June, 2020 by 3-5pm

Please register for the webinar via this link below:
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CBlC9WmnviG/?igshid=1vnl4icgo1qbm

The meetings, which may migrate offline as allowable within the COVID-19 circumstances, are intended to contribute towards practical measures to advance the good goverance in various capacity as to influence decision-making in Nigeria.

Join us Live on Zoom as we host and interact with amazing young African women from across various government decision platforms - Dr Mamatha R. Achanta, Hon. Amina Illiasu, Hon. Titilope Anifowoshe, Hon. Paschalina Mugu, Hon Lois Udonkanta.

Moderators are dedicated hands; seasoned Broadcast Jouranlist, Adaora Onyechere and Investigative journalist, Jessica Odudu Esq.

This will be the largest female-led virtual event in Africa, and we need your help to make this a reality. Please share with your friends, and ensure they sign up.

Let's do this!!!!