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Category: Politics

  • Governor Bello’s Bold Rally Cry: Aiming to Ignite Kogi’s Future with Ododo

    Governor Bello’s Bold Rally Cry: Aiming to Ignite Kogi’s Future with Ododo

    By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

    The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, called on the people in Kabba, the headquarters of Kogi West Senatorial District, to join hands in forming a government that would meet the yearnings and aspirations of the citizenry.

    During the All Progressives Congress (APC) rally held at Saint Augustine College, Kabba, Governor Yahaya Bello urged the people to disappoint all other political parties and vote massively for the APC candidate in the upcoming election on November 11, 2023.

    Bello emphasized the need to continue the progress achieved and consolidate the unity among the people of Kogi West. He stated that the state cannot afford to regress, given the plans of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for Kogi State. The Governor also highlighted the significant infrastructural developments that have taken place in the state in recent years.

    The Kogi State APC Governorship Candidate, Usman Ododo, expressed his commitment to building upon the progress and development initiated by Governor Bello. He pledged to serve and open a new chapter of development in the state.

    During the rally, critical stakeholders and key leaders from various parts of Kogi West voiced their support for the APC candidate and declared that there was no room for opposition in the area in the forthcoming governorship election.

    Former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Yomi Awoniyi, emphasized that the people had resolved to deliver for the APC, while the Minister of Steel Development, Shaibu Abubakar, expressed confidence in the Party’s victory.

    The Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umar Aliyu, described Lokoja Kogi Federal Constituency as a no-go area for the opposition and highlighted the achievements and sense of belonging provided by the APC.

    The rally also featured the reception of defectors from the PDP and other opposition parties, as well as the presentation of the APC governorship candidate’s flag. The campaign team visited the Obaro of Kabba, HRM Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi, who assured continued support from traditional rulers for the State Government.

  • Renewed Hope Agenda: The Wamako Initiative in Sokoto State

    Renewed Hope Agenda: The Wamako Initiative in Sokoto State

    By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

    In our post-colonial political journey, the name of His Excellency, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko (Sarkin Yamma), will continue to be mentioned in homes, on the streets, and in the corridors of power with celestial reverence. This report, as captured on Friday by Yusuf Makarfi, a Public Affairs Analyst living in Kaduna, highlights the significance of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko’s political initiative:

    Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, Sarkin Yamma, has captured the attention of both well-wishers and critics with his immense magnanimity. Rarely can one find a person with such dripping goodwill, empathy, and candor toward his people like Sarkin Yamma.

    His concern for his people is unparalleled, and some may even call it unsurpassed. To him, human development and providing a quality sense of belonging are paramount to his leadership.

    His vision for Sokoto State has improved the quality of life for many socially marginalized people. It has also enabled numerous students to access education through various platforms and provided food to many families and households.

    The ability of a leader to provide or assist his people in accessing educational opportunities, food, healthcare, and clean water is a measure of his leadership scale. Senator Aliyu Wamakko excels in all of these aspects.

    His political leadership is guided by both fatherly and political wisdom, which has made him the sole provider of the dividends of democracy from the remote corners of the grassroots to the top echelons of the state’s metropolis, astonishing everyone with his effective leadership style. Numerous literary works have been penned by accomplished writers, both national and international, documenting his political and social accomplishments. This makes it seemingly difficult to provide a concise narrative of this dynamic political juggernaut.

    However, one thing is certain: Sokoto State, the Seat of the Caliphate, has not seen a leader like him since the passing of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto. Senator Aliyu Wamakko’s patience, forbearance, and controlled temperament in the face of misguided political utterances continue to be a subject of reference in various societal debates.

  • House Speaker Abbas Expresses Condolences Over Passing of Ex-Senate President Lawan’s Mother

    House Speaker Abbas Expresses Condolences Over Passing of Ex-Senate President Lawan’s Mother

    Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has extended his condolences to former Senate President Senator Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan on the passing of his mother, Hajiya Halima (Baba) Ibrahim.

    Speaker Abbas described Hajiya Halima as a remarkable mother and an exemplary figure of womanhood, noting the significant roles she played throughout her life.

    He acknowledged the profound pain of losing a mother, especially at a time when her wise counsel is most valuable. Senator Lawan’s mother, aged 86, passed away at her residence in Gashua town, Bade Local Government Area of Yobe State.

    The Speaker expressed his condolences to the former Senate President, who represents Yobe North Senatorial District, highlighting that Senator Lawan’s mother set a positive example for all, particularly women.

    He offered prayers for the peaceful repose of her soul and encouraged Senator Lawan to find comfort in the knowledge that his mother led a life of impact.

  • APC Chieftain Urges Nigerians to Let the Court Decide on Tinubu’s Certificate Issue

    APC Chieftain Urges Nigerians to Let the Court Decide on Tinubu’s Certificate Issue

    By Daniel Edu

    Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a prominent member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, has appealed to Nigerians to await the Supreme Court’s judgment regarding the status of President Bola Tinubu’s certificate.

    In a statement released on Saturday, the APC stalwart expressed concern over the proliferation of accusations and counter-accusations in the media.

    Mumuni, who was the 2011 governorship candidate of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) in Lagos State, urged Nigerians to allow the highest court in the land to determine the legal facts surrounding the issue.

    He emphasized the need for caution and advised against engaging in unnecessary debates and distractions. He stressed that the judges are responsible for establishing the true status of the certificate, and therefore, there is no need for additional controversies.

    Mumuni stated, “I have read multiple commentaries and listened to multiple broadcasts from different angles regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s academic credentials. It is better we stay away from getting tangled with the charade.”

    He called for a calm and respectful dialogue between those involved, as the future holds the promise of a better resolution of the matter.

  • Senate Bill Proposes Jail Term for Parents Who Refuse to Enroll Children in Schools

    Senate Bill Proposes Jail Term for Parents Who Refuse to Enroll Children in Schools

    By Daniel Edu

    A new bill, introduced by Senator Orji Kalu (APC-Abia North) and titled the ‘Compulsory Free Universal Basic Education Act 2004, Section 2,’ is making waves in the Nigerian Senate. This proposed legislation calls for governments at all levels to provide free, compulsory, and universal basic education for all children of primary and junior secondary school age.

    The bill, which has successfully passed its first reading on the floor of the Red Chamber, goes even further by recommending that free meals be provided for every child across the country.

    According to the proposed act, “Every parent is required to ensure that their child or ward attends and completes their primary and junior secondary school education by taking the necessary steps to enroll the child in these institutions.”

    Furthermore, the act stipulates that “stakeholders in education within a local government area are responsible for ensuring that every parent or guardian complies with the duty imposed upon them under section 2(2) of this Act.”

    The proposed legislation is not without teeth. It states that parents who are found in violation of the above obligations will face consequences. On a first conviction, the penalty would be a reprimand. However, the act continues to specify that “on a second conviction, the offender would be subject to a fine of ₦2,000 or imprisonment for a term of one month, or both; and for subsequent convictions, the penalty increases to a fine of ₦5,000 or imprisonment for a term of two months, or both.”

    The Senate has taken the proposed fines a step further by amending them to introduce even more stringent financial penalties for those who fail to comply. The amendment increases the fines significantly, stating, “Section (4) (b) of the Principal Act is amended by deleting ₦2,000 and inserting ₦20,000. Section (4) (c) of the Principal Act is amended by deleting ₦5,000 and inserting ₦50,000.

    “Section 3(2) of the Principal Act is amended by deleting ₦10,000 and inserting ₦100,000.”

    In addition to these penalties, the bill makes it clear that anyone who collects or charges fees contrary to the provisions of the act commits an offense and is subject to a fine not exceeding N10,000 or imprisonment for a term of three months, or both.

    The proposed legislation underscores the importance of ensuring that every child receives full-time education that is suitable for their age, ability, and aptitude, emphasizing the importance of regular school attendance.

  • Nigeria’s Unwavering Commitment to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Speaker Abbas

    Nigeria’s Unwavering Commitment to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Speaker Abbas

    *New Delhi, India – At the P20 Summit*

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing that this commitment remains resolute. Speaking at the ongoing P20 Summit in New Delhi, India, the Speaker addressed the theme of ‘Accelerated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria.’

    He highlighted that Nigeria’s commitment to the SDGs transcends mere words, citing the country’s comprehensive transition strategy from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the SDGs in 2015. This strategy aimed to build on the progress achieved from 2016 to 2020, scale up implementation from 2021 to 2025, and accelerate progress from 2026 to 2030.

    The Speaker also noted the establishment of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs) in January 2016, which has played a significant role in institutionalizing the SDGs in Nigeria through strategic initiatives and programs.

    Furthermore, he pointed out that Nigeria has conducted independent country-led evaluations of SDG-3 (quality health and well-being for all) and SDG-4 (inclusive education and lifelong learning for all). Nigeria also sponsored United Nations’ Resolution A/77/L.64, which focused on enhancing voluntary national reviews through country-led evaluations, gaining support from several countries, demonstrating Nigeria’s international influence and commitment to robust SDG monitoring mechanisms globally.

    The Speaker highlighted other significant efforts, including Nigeria’s role in the global launch of the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF), solidifying the country’s dedication to SDG achievement. Nigeria has also developed an Integrated Sustainable Development Goals (iSDGs) Simulation Model, a localized analytical framework and policy simulation tool to align national development strategies with the SDGs efficiently.

    In terms of transparency and commitment, Nigeria has actively engaged in Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs), presenting evidence-based reports at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (UNHLPF) in 2017 and 2020. These reports showcase the policy frameworks and regulatory mechanisms crafted to embed the SDGs within national policies, plans, and programs. Additionally, state governments in Nigeria have established SDG offices within their Ministries of Budget and Economic Planning.

    Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected various aspects of development, including healthcare, the Speaker emphasized that Nigeria’s resolve to achieve the SDGs remains steadfast. The country’s approach prioritizes inclusivity and ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind.

    The Speaker highlighted legislative interventions, such as the establishment of SDG committees in the National Assembly to advance the integration of the SDGs into legislative processes and actions. He also mentioned the passage of the Out-of-School Children Commission Act 2023, aimed at addressing educational disparities and promoting access to quality education.

    Furthermore, the Speaker noted the creation of committees for people with disabilities, women’s affairs, and youth development in the House of Representatives to demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to vulnerable and marginalized groups. He stressed the importance of bi-partisanship and cross-party collaboration in these efforts.

    In addition, the National Assembly enacted the Climate Change Act, making Nigeria the first Parliament in Africa to do so, indicating the country’s commitment to mitigating the negative effects of climate change. The creation of the National Climate Council further demonstrates Nigeria’s efforts to regulate climate change issues.

    In conclusion, Speaker Abbas reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the SDGs, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and equitable development. Through comprehensive measures and ongoing collaboration, Nigeria aims to achieve these vital global goals and create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all Nigerians by 2030 and beyond.

  • “Tinubu’s Bold Move: FCT Breaks Free from Treasury Single Account Control!”

    “Tinubu’s Bold Move: FCT Breaks Free from Treasury Single Account Control!”

    By Daniel Edu

    President Bola Tinubu has made the strategic decision to withdraw the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) arrangement.

    This significant move is anticipated to facilitate accelerated progress and development within the FCTA, now under the leadership of Nyesom Wike, by granting him greater financial autonomy and control.

    The announcement of this shift in financial management, which empowers Wike with more fiscal authority over the Federal Capital Territory, was made during a press conference held on Friday in Abuja.

    The Treasury Single Account, a policy introduced by the Federal Government in 2015, mandated that all government revenues be consolidated into a single account to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.

    Wike emphasized the need for this change by pointing out challenges faced by the FCT in terms of stalled growth, a backlog of projects without adequate financial backing, and limited financial flexibility due to adherence to the single treasury account system.

    “The city has not been developing as expected, with numerous projects left incomplete and awarded without sufficient financial support. Many of these projects date back to 2002. This situation is primarily because the government consolidated all its accounts into the central bank through the single treasury account,” Wike explained.

    He further elaborated, “Under the current system, even the central bank cannot provide us with loans, and the internally generated revenue is spent as it is earned, hindering our capacity to undertake tangible infrastructure projects. Consequently, I proposed to President Tinubu that if we desire the FCT to execute essential infrastructure projects effectively, it is imperative that we withdraw from the TSA.”

    Wike concluded with an optimistic outlook for the future, stating, “Beginning next year, you can expect to witness a surge in infrastructure projects within the FCT. What you witnessed in Port-Harcourt will pale in comparison. The challenges of insecurity, power outages, and inadequate road networks will soon be consigned to history, as we set forth on a path of comprehensive development in the region.”

  • Tinubu Appoints New CEOs for Key Government Agencies

    Tinubu Appoints New CEOs for Key Government Agencies

    By  Milcah   Tanimu

    President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for the appointment of new Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) for several government agencies and parastatals operating under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment. This move aligns with Tinubu’s commitment to stimulating Nigeria’s economic recovery by focusing on trade expansion and supporting small, medium, and large-scale industries.

    The newly appointed CEOs and their respective agencies include:
    – Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, for the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
    – Afiz Ogun Oluwatoyin, for the Industrial Training Fund (ITF)
    – Kamar Bakrin, for the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC)
    – Olufemi Ogunyemi, for the Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA)
    – Nonye Ayeni, for the Nigeria Export Promotion Council (NEPC)
    – Aisha Rimi, for the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC)
    – Bamanga Usman Jada, for the Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority (OGFZA)
    – Charles Odii, for the Small & Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN)
    – Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, for the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON)
    – Rabiu Olowo, for the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN)
    – Anthony Atuche, CFA, for the Nigeria Commodities Exchange (NCE)
    – Veronica Safiya Ndanusa, for the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex (LITFCMB)
    – Lucia Shittu, for the Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board (TBSMB)
    – Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, for the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC).

    President Tinubu’s administration aims to achieve significant results in this critical sector and has set new key performance indicators for the appointed CEOs. These appointments are effective immediately, reflecting the government’s commitment to economic recovery and development.

  • Lagos State Assembly Calls for a Thorough Investigation into the Case of Missing Intestine

    Lagos State Assembly Calls for a Thorough Investigation into the Case of Missing Intestine

    By Daniel Edu

    On Thursday, the Lagos State House of Assembly issued a formal request to the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the unfortunate death of Adebola Akin-Bright. This incident was marked by the disappearance of Mr. Akin-Bright’s small intestine following a surgical procedure.

    The Assembly endorsed the recommendations put forth by a five-member ad hoc committee, which was established to examine the matter. In accordance with these recommendations, the Assembly urged the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to conduct an extensive inquiry into Dr. Baiyewu Abayomi’s conduct, who is under scrutiny for alleged medical negligence. The Assembly emphasized the importance of ensuring that justice is served at the conclusion of this investigation.

    The incident in question occurred during a surgery performed by Dr. Abayomi at Obitoks Hospital, where Akin-Bright’s small intestine reportedly vanished. The Assembly’s statement also emphasized the need for the Lagos State Government to bolster the Health Facility Monitoring and Accreditation Agency, reinforcing their capacity to effectively oversee healthcare institutions throughout the state.

    Furthermore, the Assembly called upon the Lagos State Teaching Hospital to prioritize the care of patients, particularly the younger ones, during their admission to the tertiary health facility.

    The Assembly took a moment to commend the Nigeria Police Force, Lagos Command, for their swift compliance with the Assembly’s resolution from September 17, 2023, which led to the arrest of Dr. Baiyewu Abayomi, the Managing Director of Obitoks Hospital.

    In a show of support and empathy, the Assembly urged the Lagos State Government to provide assistance to Mrs. Abiodun Akin-Bright, the mother of the late Master Adebola Akin-Bright, to help cover the expenses she incurred while attempting to save her son’s life.

    Ultimately, the Assembly formally adopted the recommendations presented by the committee as its official resolution.

  • Gov. Mutfwang Champions Accountable Leadership at CEO Summit in the United States, Pledges to Elevate Africa from Poverty

    Gov. Mutfwang Champions Accountable Leadership at CEO Summit in the United States, Pledges to Elevate Africa from Poverty

    Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has affirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to utilizing both internal resources and support from international development partners for the betterment of Plateau citizens and Nigerians.

    A statement signed by Bere Gyang his director of press and public affairs reads that Governor Mutfwang made the pledge as a Distinguished Guest at the 2023 CEO Summit hosted by Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, United States of America.

    Emphasizing his Christian values, he urged African leaders to exhibit trustworthy leadership qualities that would attract genuine support from reputable global organizations, aimed at lifting Africa out of poverty.

    “I acknowledge that we haven’t shown the leadership needed to earn trust. Our people have experienced cycles of hope and despair. It’s time for Leaders in Africa to acknowledge our role in underdevelopment of the continent. Enough is enough; we must rise to the occasion.”

    Governor Mutfwang stressed the importance of accountability in leadership, whether dealing with internally-generated wealth or development support from abroad.

    He advocated strategic engagements with trustworthy national and sub-national leaders while calling on those implementing development support initiatives to adhere to only conditions that align with their values.

    The statement further reads that David Brat, Ph.D., Vice Provost for Engagement and Public Relations, former U.S. Congressman, and Dean of the School of Business, who warmly welcomed Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other guests to the event said the Governor’s presentation has opened new frontiers of dialogue across the African continent.

    He stated that the Governor’s remarks had also sparked meaningful conversations about accountable leadership in Africa.