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  • FEMA Retrieves Body of Tragic Tricycle Rider from Abuja Water Body

    FEMA Retrieves Body of Tragic Tricycle Rider from Abuja Water Body

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    The FCT Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has successfully recovered the body of a 20-year-old commercial tricycle rider, commonly referred to as a “keke napep,” from a water pool located in the Wuye district of Abuja.

    The young tricycle rider, Adamu Yusuf by name, met a tragic end while attempting to draw water from the pool to clean his tricycle. The unfortunate incident occurred earlier in the day at around 6 a.m.

    In immediate response to the situation, FEMA’s Director General, Dr. Abbas Garba Idriss, issued a directive that prompted the agency’s search and rescue team to spring into action. This diligent effort involved a collaboration between FEMA divers and community volunteers. The joint team managed to retrieve the lifeless body of Adamu Yusuf at approximately 11:30 a.m. Subsequently, his remains were respectfully handed over to his family for the necessary burial procedures.

    FEMA, as an organization, assumes the critical responsibility of managing a spectrum of disasters, ranging from natural calamities to those arising from human activities, within the confines of the Federal Capital Territory. This multifaceted role encompasses the formulation and execution of emergency response plans, the assessment of potential risks, and the orchestration of efforts to counteract and recover from disasters.

    Furthermore, FEMA actively anticipates potential disaster scenarios, instigating preventive measures to curtail their impact. This strategic undertaking encompasses comprehensive risk evaluations, the identification of vulnerable regions and demographics, and the development of strategies geared towards minimizing the adverse effects of catastrophic events.

  • Auditor General’s Office Enhances Staff Expertise Through Training

    Auditor General’s Office Enhances Staff Expertise Through Training

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    The Office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments has taken a step toward enriching the knowledge base of its Management and Senior Staff, conducting a comprehensive three-day training program under the theme “Fostering Continuous Growth and Collaboration for Sustainable Success.”

    The training initiative, held at the Alausa-Ikeja Secretariat, was inaugurated by the Permanent Secretary/Auditor General for Local Government, Mr. Obafemi Ogunlana. He emphasized the importance of nurturing a growth-oriented mindset within the Management and Senior Staff, urging them to explore innovative and efficient methods of achieving their Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

    Mr. Ogunlana underlined that the training, carried out in partnership with Bold Perception Integrated Resources, aimed to empower participants with the essential tools to drive perpetual growth within the organization. Moreover, the training was geared towards fostering personal growth, transforming individuals into catalysts of positive change.

    He stated, “This training will elevate the mental acuity and overall well-being of the Management and Senior Staff, boosting their motivation and elevating their output. A close look at the training topics reveals a deliberate focus on staff wellness and personal growth.”

    The lead facilitator of the training, Mrs. Amina Hamza from Bold Perception Integrated, articulated that the program encompassed a spectrum of vital subjects. These included refining interpersonal skills, enhancing communication and empathy within teams, cultivating a culture of continuous learning, refining coaching techniques for team performance, building teams that are adaptable and resilient, fostering innovation and creativity, and devising personal and team development strategies.

    Hamza highlighted the interactive nature of the training, with participants actively engaging in sessions involving role plays, analyses of real-life scenarios, and other participatory activities. The program was designed to underscore the significance of collaboration, effective communication, conflict resolution, and cultivating a growth-oriented mentality.

    Noteworthy resolutions emerged at the conclusion of the training. These encompassed the establishment of monthly knowledge-sharing sessions, the creation of a Community of Practice for brainstorming and recommending strategies, the introduction of quarterly departmental activity reports, and the identification of skill gaps to address through targeted training.

    Participants acknowledged the vital connection between individual and organizational goals, recognizing that mutual success hinges on the harmonious interplay between leadership and employees. The training garnered high praise for its substantial impact and relevance, reflecting the application of enhanced interpersonal skills in day-to-day operational tasks.

  • FCT Socio-Cultural Group Applauds Tinubu’s Ministerial Selection

    FCT Socio-Cultural Group Applauds Tinubu’s Ministerial Selection

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    The Gbagyi Cultural Renaissance Foundation, a socio-cultural collective, has expressed its commendation for President Bola Tinubu’s decision to nominate one of their own, Honorable Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, as the Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs.

    Jisalo, hailing from the Federal Capital Territory, was formally inaugurated by President Tinubu on Monday, along with 44 other nominated ministers, to take on roles within the Federal Executive Council. This declaration was conveyed through a press release issued by Musa Emmanuel Dnasuwa, the Secretary of GCRF, and made available to the media in Lafia on Wednesday.

    In their statement, the group conveyed their confidence in Jisalo, highlighting his historical appointment as the first native of the nation’s capital to hold a ministerial position since 1976. The GCRF also extended encouragement to the Minister, urging him to maintain a strong sense of determination, commitment, and a focus on enacting policies that have a direct and positive impact on the populace, thereby endearing himself to the Nigerian citizenry.

    The statement from GCRF read, “Gbagyi Cultural Renaissance Foundation (GCRF) extends its warm congratulations to our esteemed compatriot, Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, on his recent appointment and subsequent induction as the Minister for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs. GCRF views this appointment as a timely beacon of ‘Hope Rekindled,’ firmly believing in your capable stewardship to dutifully fulfill your new mandate.”

    “As we pledge our unwavering support and allegiance, we encourage you to embrace constructive critique, which holds the potential to shape your administration towards achieving the desired successes. GCRF also seizes this opportunity to express gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for shattering the shackles of autocracy, political coercion, and marginalization by deeming it fitting to appoint our fellow kinsman and indigenous FCT resident as a Minister and member of the Federal Executive Council.”

    “We stand corrected if history proves otherwise. Thus, we perceive President Tinubu as a genuine democrat, and we beseech Almighty God to safeguard and uphold him throughout his tenure in office.”

    Until his current appointment, Jisalo was serving as the representative for the Abuja Municipal/Bwari Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives.

  • Okada Rider Arraigned for Allegedly Abducting Air Force Officer

    Okada Rider Arraigned for Allegedly Abducting Air Force Officer

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    A 27-year-old commercial motorcyclist, Mohammed Amine, was presented before the Badagry Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos by the police on charges of abducting an Air Force officer.

    The defendant, whose residence remains unconfirmed, is accused of two counts: abduction and breach of peace.

    According to ASP Clément Okuoimose, the prosecutor, the incident took place on August 9 around 9:40 p.m. in the Badagry area of Lagos.

    Okuoimose detailed that the defendant allegedly abducted Reuben Robinson, an Air Force officer from the 653 Nigerian Air Force, Ahanve, Badagry, without his consent, leading him to an undisclosed location.

    Furthermore, the prosecutor asserted that the defendant’s actions created a situation potentially causing a breach of peace as he transported the complainant to an undisclosed place on his TVS motorcycle with registration number BDG 737 QP.

    The charges brought against the defendant are in violation of Sections 21 and 168 of the Criminal Law of Lagos, 2015.

    The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charges during the hearing.

    Chief Magistrate Mr. Fadahunsi Adefioye granted the defendant bail in the amount of N50,000 with one surety of equal value. The surety is required to provide evidence of stable employment and a verified tax address history spanning two years.

    The case is scheduled for mention on September 14.

  • Nigeria Loses N34.1 Billion as Oil Firms Flare 12.7 Million Standard Cubic Feet of Gas

    Nigeria Loses N34.1 Billion as Oil Firms Flare 12.7 Million Standard Cubic Feet of Gas

    By  Milcah  Tanimu

    Amidst Nigeria’s declining revenue, oil and gas companies within the country have flared approximately 12.7 million standard cubic feet (mscf) of gas in July 2023, as revealed by the latest data from the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA).

    This figure marks a notable 35 percent increase in comparison to the 9.4 mscf of gas that was flared during the same period in 2022.

    The 12.7 mscf of gas flared in July 2023 is valued at $44.3 million, as stated by NOSDRA. Based on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s official exchange rate of N768.77 per dollar, this translates to an estimated loss of N34.1 billion in potential revenue for the country.

    NOSDRA further indicated that companies responsible for the gas flaring could potentially face fines totaling $25.3 million, equivalent to around N19.4 billion.

    In terms of environmental impact, NOSDRA highlighted that the gas flaring produced carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to 673.1 thousand tonnes and possessed a power generation potential of 1,300 gigawatt-hours (GWh).

    Breaking down the volume of gas flared across various oilfields, NOSDRA reported that offshore operators flared 5.1 mscf while onshore operators flared 7.6 mscf.

    NOSDRA expressed concern over the persistence of gas flaring in Nigeria, which has been ongoing since the 1950s, contributing to the release of carbon dioxide and other gaseous pollutants into the atmosphere.

    In response to this ongoing issue, Gbenga Komolafe, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), emphasized that the recently enacted Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) includes provisions aimed at ending gas flaring. He mentioned that the PIA carries substantial penalties against flaring, and the winners of the CV are expected to play a significant role in curbing gas flaring activities.

  • Michelle Alozie Clarifies Apology Situation from Lauren James after 2023 Women’s World Cup Incident

    Michelle Alozie Clarifies Apology Situation from Lauren James after 2023 Women’s World Cup Incident

    By Milcah  Tanimu

    Contrary to previous reports, Michelle Alozie, a standout player for the Super Falcons, has clarified that Lauren James, the England and Chelsea women’s forward, did not personally reach out to her following an incident during the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Instead, James issued an apology through social media after an on-field stamp on Alozie during England’s 4-2 penalty win against Nigeria in the round of 16.

    The incident resulted in James receiving a red card in the 87th minute after a VAR review. In response to the event, James posted an apology on both her Twitter and Instagram accounts. The Football Association (FIFA) also imposed a two-game suspension on James due to her actions.

    Alozie set the record straight during an interview on Channels TV Sports Tonight, clarifying that the apology was solely made on social media platforms. She mentioned that she did not receive a personal message from James.

    Alozie also shared her perspective on her reaction to the challenge from James. She highlighted that her decision to react mildly was influenced by the fact that she was already carrying a yellow card in the game. She noted that her teammates shared a photo of the incident after the match, aiming to lift her spirits, as she was initially quite upset about the situation.

    Despite the elimination of the Super Falcons in the round of 16, Alozie emphasized that her team did not lose any matches in open play throughout the tournament.

  • Naira Decline Continues in P2P Market, Reaching as Low as N925/$

    Naira Decline Continues in P2P Market, Reaching as Low as N925/$

    By Milcah  Tanimu

    The Naira has once again experienced a decline in the peer-to-peer (P2P) market, plummeting to N925 against the US dollar on Wednesday morning. The currency did show some moderation, reaching around N905/$ at the time of writing this report. This slide was triggered by a JP Morgan report revealing Nigeria’s net foreign exchange reserves to be at $3.7 billion.Dollar-Backed Stablecoins and P2P Market Dynamics

    Within the P2P market, Nigerians predominantly turn to dollar-backed stablecoins (such as USDT) for hedging and transactions. This allows tech-savvy individuals to conveniently convert their Naira into stablecoins denominated in dollars. These stablecoins enable smoother international money transfers, purchase of goods and services, and more efficient transactions compared to traditional Nigerian banks.

    Nonetheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that this market operates with minimal regulations and carries significant risks.

    JP Morgan’s Perspective and Foreign Exchange Challenges

    JP Morgan emphasized that Nigeria’s foreign exchange (FX) market remains a subject of scrutiny due to the true value of its net FX reserves. The overall balance of payments deficit continues to exert pressure on the FX market. The report also highlighted that Nigeria’s FX reserves have been significantly diminished compared to previous estimates due to larger-than-expected currency swaps and borrowing against existing reserves.

    Persistent short selling of the Naira persisted, despite a reduction in cash held outside of banks from N2.26 trillion in June to N2.20 trillion in July.

    Central Bank’s Countermeasures and Economic Realities

    To address the devaluation of the Naira and combat inflation, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has introduced various measures, including raising the cash reserve ratio (CRR) for banks, implementing open market operations (OMO), and altering the exchange rate regime.

    Although these measures initially spurred positive market reactions, the support seemed short-lived as the local currency continued to weaken against the US dollar in subsequent periods.

    Efforts to Stabilize FX Market and Skepticism

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited recently secured a $3 billion emergency loan from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to stabilize the country’s FX market. Despite these efforts, currency speculation has escalated, indicating challenges to maintaining the FX market’s integrity.

    The CBN has also introduced initiatives such as the Price Verification System (PVS) Portal and the operational mechanism for Bureau De Change Operations to enhance participation and liquidity.

    Moreover, the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX) is considering listing dollar-denominated bonds and expanding into stocks, aiming to facilitate easier access to currency for businesses in the nation.

    However, the actual state of the economy remains worrisome. Inflation has surged, with fuel prices more than tripling. The Naira has experienced consistent depreciation since the Nigerian government and the CBN implemented a float policy, losing nearly 50% of its value against the US dollar within a mere 10 weeks of its introduction.

    While the CBN is determined to achieve price and exchange rate stability, skepticism persists among economists due to the country’s structural and budgetary challenges, which limit the effectiveness of the CBN’s available FX resources.

  • Minister Aims for Double-Digit Economic Growth in Tinubu Administration

    Minister Aims for Double-Digit Economic Growth in Tinubu Administration

    By Milcah  Tanimu

    The newly appointed Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, has unveiled the government’s ambitious goal of achieving double-digit economic growth during President Bola Tinubu’s tenure.

    Addressing the public for the first time after assuming office in Abuja on Tuesday, Mr. Bagudu expressed the administration’s commitment to fostering substantial economic expansion.

    He highlighted that President Tinubu envisions a future where the Nigerian economy thrives at a double-digit growth rate, promoting inclusivity across all regions of the nation.

    Mr. Bagudu emphasized that the president firmly believes in the attainability of such growth, drawing inspiration from other nations that have achieved this feat. He stressed the importance of an economy that encourages healthy competition, rewards diligence, and extends its benefits to every citizen.

    “Bold and proactive measures have already been taken to reposition Nigeria’s economic trajectory,” he stated. He underscored President Tinubu’s establishment of a robust institutional framework aimed at sustaining this accelerated growth.

    The minister pointed out a significant policy alteration, namely the merger of the functions of the National Planning Commission and the Budget Office of the Federation under the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

    This restructuring, Mr. Bagudu explained, aims to streamline planning and budgeting processes by establishing a coherent institutional framework that facilitates effective implementation.

    He outlined the upcoming initiatives, including the harmonization of planning strategies, alignment of priorities in medium-term development plans, and synchronization of sector-specific reports with the Sustainable Development Goals and the presidential campaign manifesto.

    Mr. Bagudu also emphasized the need to prioritize strategies that enhance Nigeria’s image on the global stage. He pledged to operate an open-door policy within the ministry, emphasizing the importance of knowledge exchange to propel the country’s economic growth.

    In conclusion, the minister’s inaugural address showcased the government’s determination to pursue a path of vigorous economic expansion, echoing President Tinubu’s vision of a Nigeria that achieves and sustains double-digit growth rates while fostering inclusivity and development.

  • Abduction of Eight NYSC Members by Gunmen in Zamfara State

    Abduction of Eight NYSC Members by Gunmen in Zamfara State

    By  Milcah Tanimu

    In a distressing incident, gunmen abducted eight members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as they were traveling along a highway in Zamfara State, located in Nigeria’s North-west region. The unfortunate occurrence took place while the corps members were traveling from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State for their mandatory national service. The vehicle they were traveling in, an AKTC bus, was intercepted by the gunmen along the highway in Zamfara.

    According to a source within the transport company, who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter, the group of corps members initially numbered 11, but three managed to escape the clutches of the kidnappers. Apart from the eight corps members, the driver of the bus was also abducted. The source revealed that the abducted individuals were taken into the bush by the gunmen, while the police have successfully recovered the bus.

    The group had commenced their journey from Uyo on Friday and had spent the night in Abuja. The incident occurred as they were en route to Sokoto. The incident has been reported to both government authorities and security agencies.

    Social media posts have identified one of the abducted corps members as Emmanuel Esudue, a graduate of Agricultural and Environmental Engineering from Akwa Ibom State University. Additionally, another victim, Betty Udofia, has been named. The kidnappers have reportedly contacted Ms. Udofia’s parents, demanding a ransom of N4 million.

    While the police spokesperson in Zamfara, Yazid Abubakar, is yet to confirm the incident, efforts to reach NYSC authorities for their response have been unsuccessful. Eddy Megwa, the NYSC spokesperson, has not responded to calls for comment on the situation.

  • Addressing Farmers-Herders Clashes in Delta and Bayelsa: Importance of Dialogue and Security

    Addressing Farmers-Herders Clashes in Delta and Bayelsa: Importance of Dialogue and Security

    By Milcah  Tanimu

    Stakeholders from Delta and Bayelsa states have emphasized the significance of addressing the recurring conflicts between farmers and herders through continuous dialogue and collaboration. these stakeholders stressed that fostering understanding and appropriate actions against wrongdoers could help mitigate these clashes.

    Recognizing the interdependence of herders and farmers within the ecosystem, the stakeholders underscored the importance of preserving each other’s interests. They expressed concern that the continual destruction of farmlands by cattle could escalate tensions and hostility towards herders. As a solution, they urged residents to involve security agencies when infractions occur, rather than resorting to vigilantism.

    Dr. Festus Ebimo, a lecturer at the Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa, highlighted the need for swift action by security agencies to prevent the situation from escalating into a crisis. He raised concerns about the potential impact on communities like Elebele, Zarama, Nedugo-Agbia, and others, which may experience food shortages due to farmers abandoning their fields due to fear.

    Chief Gift Oru, a community leader in Otuoke, emphasized the importance of proactive measures by security agencies to hold herders accountable for damaging farms. He referenced incidents where herders allegedly attacked locals, emphasizing the necessity of curbing such situations before they escalate into severe conflicts.

    Chief Mrs. Duenize Ogon, a woman leader in Agudama-Epie community, stressed the role of both security agencies and the government in finding a lasting solution to the farmers-herders rift. She highlighted ongoing efforts by the Divisional Police Officer in Akenfa to collaborate with the community and encouraged patience as solutions are sought.

    In Delta, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) intervened in the dispute between farmers and herders in Obetim-Uno community, Ndokwa East LGA. The NSCDC Commandant in the state, Suleiman Jimoh, outlined the command’s approach, which includes mediating between community leaders and herders. Jimoh highlighted the importance of holding herders accountable for crop destruction and urged communities to report incidents rather than taking matters into their own hands.

    Overall, these stakeholders emphasize the need for dialogue, collaboration, and effective security measures to address the persistent challenges posed by clashes between farmers and herders in the region.