Online Editors Gets CAC’s Certificate of Registration

…Body to Announce Investiture Programme to Mark Second Anniversary

The Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE), has officially been registered as a corporate entity by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), with the registration number: 7441687.

Disclosing this in a press release E-signed by Martins Odiete (Acting Chairman)  and  Shola Akingboye (Acting  Secretary), disclosed that As a professional body of news editors who publish online newspapers in Nigeria, the registration is a huge milestone for ACOE in line with its mission to strengthen ethical journalism as a prerequisite tool for online media practitioners; to uphold the tenets of the profession, promote corporate values and the welfare of its members, and to maintain associations’ set standard in line with global best practices.

As the association approaches its second anniversary with members across the 36 states of the federation and the FCT at its headquarters, ACOE will be announcing a line of exciting programs to mark its two years of existence and unveil its corporate identity in the days ahead. Stay tuned for more updates and join ACOE in promoting ethical journalism and professional standards in the online media space.

Corporate Actions On Climate Change: UNESCO Laureate Commends UN Global Compact On Invitation

UNESCO laureate, Vice-Chancellor, Crown University, USA, Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu, has Commended the Leadership of United Nations Global Compact on invitation  to proffer solutions to the barriers, challenges to provide opportunities towards advancing a just  transition and share best practices and actionable solutions for companies for sustainable global  economies and societies, live and virtual event scheduled to take place in the morning  by 9:30am this  month, May 9, 2024 as co-hostex by United Nations Global Compact and International Labour Organization (ILO).

In a statement by VC CUICI, USA today being on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 which was made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba, Delta State capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistant On Media, Publicity and Communication Matters, Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu tasks United Nations Global Compact on the benefits of a just transition of companies, corporate actions towards the promotion of  good impacts on climate change, or global environmentally sustainable economies.

According to UNESCO Laureate, United Nations Global Compact set out objectives are to ensure that companies align their strategies operations with the universal principles as related to environmentally sustainable economies such as in labour, environment and others to maintain fairness and inclusiveness for everyone.

He added that, United Nations Global Compact is a non-binding United Nations pact to get businesses and firms worldwide adopt sustainable and socially responsible policies and report on their implementations. This, to ensure that no one is left behind or pushed behind in the transition to low- carbon and environmentally sustainable economies and societies. He said:  The essence of the insightful program which UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu was  invited to hear from other experts, Speakers at the event to be held on May 9, 2024 to explore on the ways  companies can advance a just transition by taking concrete actions to address the social impact of climate change, especially to workers, unions, communities and suppliers”.

CUICI VC while expressing optimism over the development on his invitation as he hope for  success of the event  às co-hosted by United Nations Global Compact and International Labour Organization (ILO) UNESCO Laureate then urged groups, stakeholders to explore the benefits of a just transition to ensure global environmentally sustainable economies. Reacting further, Aremu stated: “As one of the stakeholders invited to on this a just transition of Companies to address the social impacts of climate change mitigation and adaptation in partnership with other actors such as workers, unions, communities and suppliers, I must commend your invitation and initiative towards the attainment of Agenda 2030″.

“I commend the following industry experts, Speakers as invited: Fernando Castellanos, Head, Environment & Climate, UN Global Compact, Rie Vejs Kjeidgaard, Director of the Department of partnerships Field Support, International Labour Organization (ILO), Nikki Gwilliam Beeharee, Investor Engagement Strategic Lead, World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA), Gustarf Renman, Research Specialist On Just Transition, World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA), Robert Warinkovic, Adviser for Climate & Just Transition, International Organization of Employers (IOE), Donatella Izzo, Head Human Rights Sustainability, Enel, Ankit Todi, Lead, Group Sustainability Strategy & Partnerships, Mahindra Group as invited to speak to build on the introduction to Just  Transition Foundational Academy course.

” It will feature concrete examples from companies across different sectors shedding light on their strategies to planning and contributing to a just transition. Companies will highlight opportunities, challenges and barriers to advancing a just transition, and share best practices and actionable solutions, as part of their commitment to Forward Faster. Experts will also address relevant developments in the areas of policy and finance”.

“Participants will have an opportunity to engage with the speakers, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and knowledge. By the end of the session, participants will walk away with actionable steps to: -Develop a clear understanding of what a just transition entails in practice. -Identify opportunities for collaboration with stakeholders to drive meaningful change. -Implement practical strategies for integrating just transition into corporate decision-making and policies”.

INSECURITY: Matawalle Harps On Intelligence Sharing With USA

By ZY Job

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has harped on more intelligence sharing between Nigeria and the United States of America in order to fight banditry and terrorism in Nigeria.

According to the press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations) on 1st May, 2024, the Minister opined this when he hosted the Assistant Secretary for Defence for African Affairs at the US
Department of Defence, Jennifer Zakriski and her team at Ship House.

The Minister listed out areas of possible collaborations to include intelligence sharing aimed at bolstering the fight against insecurity in Nigeria.

Matawalle noted that the information and intelligence the US uses in sending early warning to her citizens in crises countries, can be shared with Nigeria, warning us of impending attack by terrorists.

The meeting which witnessed robust and in-depth discussions on intelligence sharing, will foster renewed commitment in strengthening the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and the United States in defence and security cooperation.

He said: “It is indeed a privilege to welcome you and your team to Nigeria. Our discussion today underscores the importance of collaboration and intelligence sharing in tackling common security challenges. Nigeria values its partnership with the United States, and we are committed to enhancing our cooperation in defence matters for the mutual benefit of our nations.”

In her remarks, Jennifer Zakriski expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Nigeria in addressing security concerns.

She stated, “Nigeria is a key partner for the United States in Africa, and our collaboration is vital in addressing shared security threats. Today’s meeting marks another milestone in our efforts to strengthen defense ties and enhance regional security.”

Defence Ministers Meet With African Union Peace And Security Council

… Discuss Cooperation on Counter-terrorism

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Honourable Ministers of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, and H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, had audience with Ambassadors from the African Union Peace and Security Council led by the Ambassador of Gambia to the African Union and H.E Jainaba Jagne ,the Chairperson of AU Peace and Security Council for the month of April, 2024 at Ship House, Abuja.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations ) on Friday, 26th April, 2024, the Minister reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to regional security cooperation, stating that: “Nigeria will contribute to the proposed African Standby Force and that we are open to all possible collaborations with the African Union to ensure the security of Africa.”

Speaking on the just concluded Counter-terrorism Summit, Badaru said that Nigeria will abide with the resolution reached that would enhance the regional fight against terrorism and other criminalities.

He said: “Though it is still on paper, but I believe all council members are enthusiastic about the deliberation and on our part, we will work hard to contribute our best to see that our partnership on conflict resolution works.”

On her part, Her Excellency Jainaba Jagne commended the Nigerian Government for the hospitality and commitment to advancing the goals of the African Union. She said: “Today’s meeting underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing the common threats facing our continent. Nigeria’s leadership in this regard is commendable, and we look forward to continued collaboration towards a safer and more secure Africa.”

The meeting witnessed robust discussions on conflict resolution aimed at fostering closer collaboration among African nations in the fight against terrorism.
The discussions are expected to inform future initiatives aimed at strengthening regional security mechanisms and enhancing the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts across Africa.

It Is Time We Come Together To Fight Terrorism And Other Crimes – Badaru

By Zipporah Ayuba

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H. E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni has called on all African member states to come together and fight terrorism by preventing cross border influx of illegal arms in the continent.

According to the press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe
Director ( Information and Public Relations) on Wednesday, 24th April, 2024, the Minister made the call while speaking to Newsmen shortly after the close of the two- day High level Africa counter terrorism summit held in Abuja.

The Minister said: “We have resolved amongst the participating countries that each sub regional body should organise itself and come together as a United Africa to develop means and strategies in partnership with the International Community to tackle terrorism and other related crimes in the continent.”

He said that the time to act to secure Africa from insecurity is now and God’s Willing that will be achieved in no distance time.

Furthermore, the Minister called for a collaborative approach in intelligence sharing and information gathering on the sources of funding and arms acquisition by the terrorists. “This will help in checkmating the scourge of terrorism and also in cross-checking the movement of terrorists across borders.”

Nigeria Military to strengthen cooperation with Mauritania-Matawalle

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON has called for deeper Military cooperation with Mauritania in order to address the security challenges bedeviling the country.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director ( Information and Public Relations) on Tuesday 30th of April, 2023, the Minister reiterated Federal Government’s commitment of advancing bilateral tiers on defence with other nations in order to boost Nigerian Counter- terrorism preparedness.

Matawalle stated this when he received the Minister of Defence of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, Hanena Ould Sidi, on an official visit to Nigeria at his office in Ship House, Abuja.

The meeting was to further rejig the joint cooperation between the two countries in the military and security fields, particularly in light of Nigeria’s pivotal role in counter-terrorism efforts across the African region.

He thanked the Minister for the visit and said that Nigeria was committed to strengthening the historical and brotherly relations between the two nations, with focus on advancing cooperation in defence and other sectors.

NCAA reels out achievements and assures journalists of stronger partnership

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), a body saddled with the responsibilities of regulating the safety of aircraft operations, air navigation and aerodrome operations, Monitoring of aircraft operating environment for safety and security amongst many others under the leadership of Chris Najomo, its Acting Director-General has rolled out immeasurable achievements within a few months in office, assuring journalists of a robust partnership for maximum publicity.

While unveiling the achievements in a media chat briefing with journalists in Abuja on Monday, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu further charged journalists to be absolutely objective in their reportage.

According to him, “Payment of backlog of Housing (Rent) arrears to all Staff that had accumulated from 2019 was achieved successfully, Vigorously tackling staff stagnation issues: A ministerial approval was secured. For inter-directorate deployment to open up bottlenecks in structure, and subsequent promotion of stagnated staff from GL.14 to GL.15. execution of the Civil Aviation Master Plan was done under the administration of Captain Chris Najomo.

“Open-door policy and regular engagement (both formally and informally) with the NCAA Unions to ensure peace and stability in the workforce. Approval of 2024 Training Budget obtained early. Conducted induction plus Retreat for Top Management of NCAA in February, 2024. The Ag. DGCA signed a performance bond with each director at the end of this retreat, thus, setting the stage for the achievement of the DGCA’S performance target for the year 2024. He initiated institutionalization of the meritorious service recognition for deserving staff. This commenced with 3 staff recognized in the Port Harcourt Regional Office in February, 2024. Payment of statt monthly salary by 22nd of every month despite the eftects of the Authority’s reduced resources arising from 50% statutory deduction. Naira payments are made within 24 and 48 hours on receipt of cleared PV from internal Audit despite backlogs

“Inauguration of the National Exequtive Safety Committee (NESC) by the Honourable Minister. This is a key requirement in the implementation of Nigeria’s State Safety Programme (SSP).

“Creation of the Quality Assurance department to pran ote compliance with tachnical and non-technical policies and procedures witking the Authority. This
has been followed with the inauguration of a committee to draft the Authority’s first Quality Assurance document. On the issue of high air fares: NCAA engaged with foreign airlines in February, 2024, Ag. DGCA inaugurated a committee comprising NCAA, FCCPC and NANTA in March, 2024. These engagements, and others actions by the FGN, resulted in foreign airlines unblocking their lower inventory fares and made cheaper fares (Based on the HMA and Ag. DGCA’s sojourn to the UK, buoyed by the commitment of Mr. President, Air Peace was able to finally commence the Lagos-London operations.

“A complete re-evaluation of all holders of Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) is on-going to ensure such holders are adhering to the terms and conditions of their permits.
Delivery of Indoctrination Course for the recently-employed personnel in DAWS, DOLTS, DAAS and Legal. Delivery of outstanding mandatory Courses for FSG personnel at BON Hotel, Kano. This is to ensure competency within the inspectorates.

“Creation of a dedicated unit for the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) to drive the growth of the RPAS industry. Instituted a simplified certification process as a derivative of the ease-of-doing business policy of the Najomo administration. As the gate-keeper of the sector, Service providers who satisfy requirements would be certificated appropriately, while those who do not meet requirements would be formally excluded from the sector. In view of the above, three service providers have obtained Air Operator Certificate (AOC) within the Najomo administration so far. Reduction of the total time for certifications, aircraft registrations and provision of technical services. List of certified Heliports are now published on NCAA website and the system has been set up to keep it updated. EMPIC-EAP is being deployed as the regulatory software for selected modules. Training for super-users was done in April, 2024. ICAO conducted the Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP) — Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA) of Nigeria’s civil aviation security system in March, 2024. The Authority led the charge comprising FAAN and other stakeholders through this 2-week intensive audit. All AVSEC national documents such as NCASP, NCASTP, NCASCP, NCASQCP and NCP have been reviewed and approved in accordance with ICAO Annex 17 requirements. Relocation of the Procurement department from the DGCA’S Office to the DCS to promote transparency and accountability in procurement matters. Prompt resolution of customer issues. Rebranding of the Consumer Protection Department for public awareness and effective service delivery. Prompt ticket refunds and payment of compensation for flight disruptions or baggage issues and ensuring better passenger experience for Nigerian passport holders by foreign airlines”, he added.

RMAFC Grieves Over Demise of Senator Eze

Maryam Aminu

The Board, management, and staff of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, RMAFC has described the passing of distingushed senator Ayogu Eze as shocking and sorrowful.

In a statement signed by the Chairman RMAFC, M. B. Shehu, on Friday
26th April, 2024, he said Senator Eze who was a team worker, a brother, and a friend passed on yesterday

Until his demise, he was the Honourable Commissioner representing Enugu state in the Commission, where he served the nation in general and his state in particular with diligence and dedication.

While consoling his family and the good people of Enugu state, RMAFC prayed to God to also grant his soul eternal rest.
” In this time of grief, we in RMAFC stand with his family and the good people of Enugu State.May your soul rest in the Lord’s bossom”

The Chairman assured tha distinguish senator Eze will be remembered for his humility, selflessness, and exemplary service to the nation.

King of Alesa Eleme Kingdom Honored with ICWLS Global Awards

UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, a distinguished academic figure of global repute, has extended warm congratulations to His Royal Highness, Emere Sir (Dr.) Emperor J.D. Nkpe JP, the revered Monarch of Alesa Eleme Kingdom in Rivers State, Nigeria. The joyous occasion comes as the King is honored with the prestigious ICWLS Global Awards, recognizing him as the Most Notable and Top Distinguished Outstanding King of the 21st Century.

The accolades were bestowed upon the King during a grand event in Abuja, where he was hosted as a Special Guest of Honor at an International Conference organized by the 21st Century CMI Institute and Academy. This recognition highlights the King’s exceptional contributions and achievements during his reign, marking him as a beacon of leadership and progress.

In a press statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to UNESCO Laureate, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike, the Monarch’s global recognition was celebrated as a testament to his visionary leadership and commitment to the development and peace of Alesa Eleme Kingdom and Rivers State as a whole.

The International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), led by Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, honored His Royal Highness with prestigious awards including the Global Golden Medal, Silver Certificates, Golden Frame, and Golden Muffler, symbolizing international respect and excellence in leadership.

Reflecting on the King’s tenure, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu praised His Royal Highness for fostering development, ensuring sustainable peace, and elevating the honor of Alesa Eleme Kingdom. The Monarch’s unwavering dedication and accomplishments have earned him the distinguished titles of Most Notable and Top Distinguished Outstanding King of the 21st Century, along with the esteemed status of a Five Stars and Life Fellow of the International Chartered World Learned Society.

The press statement further expressed gratitude and admiration for the King’s generous counsel and contributions to the growth and prosperity of his kingdom and the wider community. It also marked the occasion as the Silver Jubilee Anniversary of His Royal Highness’ ascension to the throne, wishing him continued success, health, and a long, enduring reign.

As the world celebrates the remarkable achievements and leadership of the King of Alesa Eleme Kingdom, the recognition serves as a reminder of the invaluable role traditional institutions play in driving progress, unity, and development within their communities and beyond.

Olawande Launches Corpreneur Support Initiative, Ten Corps Members to Benefit in Oyo

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to foster creativity, innovation, and skill development amongst corps members, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande has announced a diverse range of financial support for corps entrepreneurs codenamed “Corprenuers”

Olawande made this announcement during his maiden visit to NYSC Orientation Camp on Tuesday in Iseyin, Oyo State.

In a statement by the
Director Press and Public Relation, Omolara Esan
the Minister said corps members have shown unimaginable level of industry, with many of them already running creative businesses even before they enrol in the NYSC program.

“We have to be innovative in tackling unemployment. We are aware that some of you have already engaged your talents to establish businesses and create jobs for yourselves. We are therefore prepared to support you to advance those businesses and take them to the next level before you pass out of the NYSC,” Olawande said.

While stating that ten corpreneurs would be supported with varied amounts, the minister said the initiative would be ongoing and will spread to other camps in a continuous effort to encourage corps members taking part in the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) and others with existing businesses.