Category: News

In a significant development, the Senate has given its nod to the 2024 budget during its third reading. The approved budget saw an increment of N1.2tn, soaring from the initial N27.5tn to the revised figure of N28.7tn.

The approval followed a voice vote conducted by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, after a thorough consideration of the Appropriation Bill report, presented by Senator Adeola Solomon, the Chairman of the Appropriation Committee.

Breaking down the budget details, the Senate outlined the Aggregate Expenditure at 28,777,404,073,861; Statutory Transfers at -1,742,786,788,150; Recurrent Expenditure at -8,768,533,030,852; Capital Expenditure at -9,995,143,298,028, and GDP at 3.88%.

Initially presented by President Bola Tinubu on November 29, the budget stood at N27.5tn, with a projected deficit of N9.18tn for the fiscal year 2024, representing 3.88% of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Tinubu emphasized, “The N9.18 trillion deficit is lower than the N13.78 trillion naira deficit recorded in 2023, which represents 6.11% of GDP. The deficit will be financed by new borrowings totalling N7.83tn, N298.49BN from Privatization Proceeds, and 1.05 trillion naira drawdown on multilateral and bilateral loans secured for specific development projects.”

This development comes after the Senate’s second reading approval on December 1, with the National Assembly working to finalize and pass the budget on Saturday.

In a poignant show of solidarity, the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, accompanied by Nana Shettima, the wife of the Vice President, extended their condolences to the family of the late former governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, at his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday.

During the visit, Mrs. Tinubu paid tribute to the late Akeredolu, describing him as a remarkable man and expressing the sentiment that Nigeria has lost one of its distinguished individuals.

Mrs. Tinubu remarked, “I keep asking when people ask someone, ‘Is somebody alright or is he sick?’ I said, ‘Who is well?’ We all have one ailment or the other, and it is only God that gives us each day to live by.”

“He has done his best. He was a great, brave man, loved by my family, loved by my husband, and respected by my husband. We can only wish that the legacies he left behind could continue and endure.”

“I wish his wife, his children, grandchildren, and the family that God will comfort them and also ease their pains. They should live with the fact that the man has done well. He has done well to people; he will be solidly missed, and we pray that his soul rests in perfect peace.”

Akeredolu passed away on December 27 at the age of 67 while undergoing treatment for prostate cancer in a German hospital. On the same day, Lucky Aiyedatiwa was sworn in as the substantive governor, following the demise of the late governor.

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi

The Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, has signed N225.7 billion 2024 budget into law.

Governor Alia who performed the ceremony at the Government House Makurdi, on Friday described the event as a significant step towards progress and property of Benue State.

Tagged “the budget for infrastructural development, job creation and poverty alleviation”, the governor, explained that the budget has an aggregated financing to the tune of 225.7 billion naira.

The Governor further explained that, out of the total aggregated financing sum, the sum of 110.5billion naira is for the recurrent expenditure, representing 48.98 percent of the total budget, while the Capital Head stands at 115.2 billion naira, representing 51.1 percent of the total budget, pointing out that 34.6 billion naira has been allocated to deficit financing, representing 15. 3 percent of the 2024 budget.

He stressed that the aforementioned budget will serve as a roadmap which will add value to the lives of Benue citizens, maintaining that it will make the economy of the state to flourish to improve the quality of lives of Benue people.

Governor Alia, contended that, the 2024 budget covers critical areas, including construction and maintenance of roads, bridges as well as other development projects that will have direct bearing on people’s lives.

“This budget is a beacon of hope for job seekers and aspiring entrepreneurs. We understand the importance of job creation in fostering a dynamic and resilient economy. By allocating resources to various sectors, we aimed to stimulate economic activities that will in turn generate employment opportunities.”

Governor lauded members of the Benue State House of Assembly over their relentless efforts to ensure quick passage of the appropriation Bill submitted to it. He called for support from Benue people to build a future that is characterised by prosperity, shared success among others.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Government and Naval Shipyard Limited, a subsidiary of the Nigerian Navy have signed an agreement for the construction of a 24-metre mild steel passenger/cruise ferry boat, for marine transportation within and outside the State.

Speaking at a brief ceremony at Government House, Uyo yesterday, Governor Umo Eno expressed satisfaction with the collaboration for security and reinvention of marine transportation in the state, describing the agreement for marine transport infrastructure as a good way to end the year.

Eno welcomed the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla to the State, and pledged his administration’s commitment to partnering the Navy to further the ARISE Agenda.

“Our intention in line with the ARISE Agenda is to expand water transportation, support maritime security and see the best we can extract from the blue economy.

“We have plans to have a second one because we don’t want a down tie, so, maybe six months down the line, we should be able to place order for a smaller ferry, so that we can be sure that if one is for servicing, we can have others that can still run.” The Governor said.

Explaining why the State Executive Council chose the Nigerian Navy for the deal, Eno said, “besides the helpful synergy the government has enjoyed with the Navy, the deal was in line with the administration’s preference to invest in the domestic economy, and the hope that the Navy will ensure security for the ferry’s operation, given its stake.

“Many others bided for this job, but we have chosen the Nigerian Navy because, first, we want to encourage our local content, and we believe also, that the Nigerian Navy, being the manufacturer of the ferry, will provide the enabling environment for it to operate.”

In his remarks, Ogalla commended the Governor on his ARISE Agenda implementation, affirming that some programmes captured in the agenda, especially in the area of security within the maritime environment, have begun to materialize.

He described the Governor’s venture into maritime transportation as pacesetting and beneficial to both the State and the entire South South region.

Highpoint of the event, was signing of the contractual agreement by the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Orman Esin, on behalf of the Akwa Ibom State Government and the Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Shipyard Limited, Rear Admiral Fredrick Damtong on behalf of the Nigerian Navy.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla has inaugurated 14 patrol gunboats to secure the maritime environment in Akwa Ibom.

At the ceremony which took place at the NSS Jubilee Jetty at Ikot Abasi Local Council of the state yesterday, Ogalla said the boats were a testimony of the priority the state government placed on maritime security

“This is a reassurance of the governor’s interest in the progress of our nation particularly security of maritime environment and economic resources.” He said.

The CNS disclosed that the state government just signed a contract with Nigerian Naval Shipyard Limited for the construction of a water transport ferry for the state noting that the ferry was key to the development of the blue economy which is important in water transport.

“It is also key to our local content capability because the contract was signed with Nigerian Navy Shipyard in Port Harcourt,” he said, adding that the ferry would be delivered in 18 months.

“All these are key to the Governor’s Arise Agenda which is improving the welfare of the people, improving their capacity to be able to contribute to economy development instead of going to criminalities.

“We believe that the governor is a visionary leader and that is why he has seen the relevance of the blue economy in economic liberation of his people and by the liberation of Nigeria as a whole.” Ogalla said.

He lamented the threat of oil theft to the development of blue economy of the nation and vowed to put an end to oil theft in Akwa Ibom in particular and the nation in general.

“We would leave no stone unturned to the menace of oil theft and other criminal activities within the waterways of Akwa Ibom and the nation in general.” He promised.

In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said he has signed a contract with Nigerian Navy to build a shipyard ferry boat for transportation that would plight Oron to Calabar.

He promised to turn coastal arears such as Oron, Eastern Obolo, Ibeno, Ikot Abasi into tourism heaven in order to boost economic activities in these communities.

He noted that the patrol gunboats would mitigate the activities of pyrates and other criminal elements within the coastal activities.

“This will also boost our blue print while improving the livelyhood of the people living within the coastal communities.This initiative will improve our water transport within and between our state and neighbouring states.” Eno concluded.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

It was pure excitement as Orphanages, Widows and Elderlies heartily received donations and education supports with joy from the Chief Executive Officers (CEO), Caleb Danladi Foundation in Kaduna recently

In the heartwarming display of the holiday spirit and community support, Caleb Danladi, the CEO of the Caleb Danladi Foundation, undertook a special journey to Jaba LGA in Kaduna State and extended the festive cheer, donations and educational support to Orphanages, Widows, and the Elderly.

The visit, marked by compassion and generosity, according to statement, included stops at Arrow of Hope Orphanage, Gweimen Center, and Daddu Orphanage as well as a meaningful outreach in the Samban Community.

At the Arrow of Hope Orphanage, the air was filled with laughter and excitement as CEO personally interacted with the orphan children, spreading joy through festive gifts and treats.

The spirit of giving continued at Gweimen Center and Daddu Orphanage, where widows and orphans received essential supplies and the warmth of the foundation’s support.

The outreach didn’t end there, In the Samban Community, Caleb Danladi, however took a step further by paying the WAEC (West African Examinations Council), fees for deserving students, in line with his believe that education remained an accessible path for the youth in the region.
This impactful gesture reflects the foundation’s commitment to empowering the next generation.

Additionally, the CEO visited the elderly ones in Samban, sharing stories and offering companionship during the festive season. The foundation’s dedication to the holistic well-being of the community was evident as essential needs were met, and the elderly were reminded that they are valued members of the community.

Expressing his feeling, Caleb Danladi had this to say, “This festive season is about spreading joy and making a meaningful impact. We are privileged to be part of Jaba LGA and Samban Community, and it is our mission to bring hope to those who need it most, whether through educational support, material aid or simply spending time with the elderly.”

The Caleb Danladi Foundation’s holistic approach to community outreach underscores the transformative power of compassion and collective efforts. As the festive season unfolds, these initiatives stand as shining examples of how a foundation’s commitment to uplifting lives can create a lasting positive impact on communities.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has clarified that rice remains a restricted commodity despite the recent lifting of the ban on foreign exchange for its imports. The NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, emphasized that rice, as a restricted item, would be confiscated if imported through land borders. The rising cost of rice, now selling between N55,000 and N60,000 for a 50kg bag, has prompted questions about the effectiveness of the forex ban lift. The NCS asserted that the forex ban lift did not change the status of rice as a restricted commodity, and any policy changes would be communicated to the public.

By Gabriel Achudu, Kaduna

Information from Bokkos community in Plateau state which was recently invaded by terrorists has revealed that a mastermind of the massacre has been arrested.

The report stated that a Commander of the State Task ForceSTF, (name withheld) has been arrested by security operatives in connection with the massacre of over 195 persons.

The reports emanating from the locals on Friday alleged that lots of evidences linked to him have already been found and more in respect of the attack and massacre.

The Commander was reportedly sighted in chain on both legs and handcuffed by security operatives

According to the report the commander reportedly compromised and allowed invaders to attack the villagers.

A local who spoke on the development said, “God is already answering our prayers, the Bokkos STF Sector Commander was arrested yesterday, leg- chained & handcuffed for haven compromised us to the fulanis, lots of evidences found against him and more.

“More unfolding. The blood of our innocent people will not go in vain by His Grace!!. Let’s keep praying brethren”, he stated.

More details later…

The Nigerian military reported substantial achievements in its operations throughout 2023, including the elimination of 6,886 terrorists and various criminal elements. In addition, 6,970 suspects were apprehended, and 4,488 kidnapped citizens were successfully rescued across the country. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen Buba Edward, shared these details, highlighting the recovery of 100 million litres of stolen crude oil and 60 million litres of diesel during the operations.

Furthermore, the military efforts led to the neutralization of threats such as armed banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, oil theft, secessionist agitations, and farmers-herders clashes. The threats were analyzed across geopolitical zones, with specific dynamics defined for each region. While challenges like armed banditry and terrorism persisted in the North-Central and North-West, the North-East continued to face Boko Haram insurgents. Secessionist agitations were identified as major threats in the South-East and South-West, while the South-South dealt with issues like oil theft and youth restiveness.

Maj-Gen Buba attributed the proliferation of small arms, porous borders, and local arms fabrication as contributors to increased crime rates in 2023. He emphasized the armed forces’ efforts to address these challenges through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. Regarding the recent attacks in Plateau State, Buba explained the difficulties troops faced due to the vast and rugged terrain, making some areas challenging to access promptly.

In response to letters notifying residents of potential attacks, Buba assured that measures were in place to prevent a recurrence and pledged to take action against those responsible for the crimes.

By Daniel Edu

In 2023, a remarkable trend in Nigeria saw individuals attempting to break world records despite the myriad challenges faced by the nation. Here’s a list of ten Nigerians who made such attempts:

1. **Philip Solomon (January 2023):**
– Accomplishment: Broke the Guinness World Record for most skips on one foot in 30 seconds with 153 skips.

2. **Chinonso Eche:**
– Achievements:
– Fastest time to 1,000 football touches while balancing a ball on the head (7 min 46 sec).
– Most football headers in a prone position in one minute (233 headers).
– Most football touches in a seated position while balancing a ball on the head in one minute (197 touches).
– Broke his own 2019 record for most consecutive football touches in one minute (133 touches).

3. **Hilda Baci (May 2023):**
– Accomplishment: Set a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon, cooking for 93 hours 11 minutes.

4. **Chef Dammy:**
– Attempt: Conducted a 120-hour cook-a-thon, following Hilda Baci’s attempt.

5. **Oluwatobi Kufeji (July 2023):**
– Attempt: Tried to break the Guinness World Record for the longest singing marathon of 105 hours but the attempt was not certified.

6. **Tonye Solomon (September 2023):**
– Accomplishment: Climbed 150 steps of a 250-foot tall radio mast while balancing a football on the head, setting a world record.

7. **Lola Mewu (October 2023):**
– Attempt: Made an attempt for the longest painting time, exceeding 82 hours. Confirmation pending.

8. **Helen Williams (November 2023):**
– Accomplishment: Certified as the World Record Holder for the longest handmade wig (351.28 meters).

9. **Subair Enitan (November 2023):**
– Attempt: Attempted to hand-wash clothes for 50 hours.

10. **Mary Gold (December 2023):**
– Attempt: Endeavored to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon television talk show, speaking with 100 guests within 100 hours.

These individuals showcased diverse talents and determination, reflecting a unique and inspiring trend in Nigeria for the year 2023.