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EMBRACE EMERGING TECHNOLOGY TO BUILD A MORE SECURED NATION – BADARU

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Muhammed Badaru, CON, mni, has urged the National Space Defence Administration to harness the power of emerging technologies to build a more secure and prosperous future for the nation and its people. This, he said, will enable the nation to confront the challenges of tomorrow with confidence and resilience.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director (Information and Public Relations), speaking as a special guest of honour during the opening of a two-day symposium on Defence Space Administration in Abuja, Badaru emphasized the need for the nation’s security architecture to leverage on emerging technologies to counter new and sophisticated threats, ranging from cyber-attacks to space-based challenges.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, where technological advancements are reshaping the landscape of national security, we must adapt and innovate to protect our defence infrastructure effectively,” the Minister said. “It is crucial to stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of emerging technologies to fortify our defence and ensure the security of our nation.”

The Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support in providing an enabling environment for the Nigerian Armed Forces to operate effectively and efficiently. He reiterated that technology plays a vital role in the fight against insecurity, and therefore, the nation’s security architecture must leverage and strengthen its defence infrastructure and safeguard the nation by deploying new technologies.

During the event, the Minister and other dignitaries were conducted on a tour of the exhibition stands by the Chief of Defence Space Administration, Air Vice Marshal AA Shinkafi, to showcase various military equipment produced by the Administration on display.

FG Commences Review of Youth Development Policy

Maryam Aminu

The federal government has taken comprehensive and proactive approach in addressing the challenges facing young people in Nigeria by commencing the process of a thorough review of the youth development policy with key Stakeholders.

The Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, shared this important initiative during an interactive session with critical stakeholders from the 36 States including FCT on Wednesday in Abuja.

The session has it theme: Leadership and Public Policy: Grassroot Mobilisers- The Challenges and Remedies through Remodeling’, highlighted the government’s commitment to youth development.

Dr. Ibrahim emphasized the need for input from all critical stakeholders before presenting the draft of the Youth Development Policy to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.

The government aims to involve all relevant parties in the process of establishing sustainable solutions to the prevalent issues, particularly by ensuring accessible financial resources for the younger generation, meaningful inclusion of youth, and addressing the requirements of individuals with special needs.

L-R Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Middle -Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Hon Minister of Youth Development and Mohammed Abbah Isah, Senior Special Assistant to Mr. President on people with Special needs during a Youth critical stakeholders parley with the Hon. Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim in her office

“We cannot progress without a comprehensive Youth Development Policy. Upon our arrival, we encountered an outdated policy, prompting us to devise programs and initiatives that actively engage young people and allow them to influence policy decisions.

She expressed that the current administration is committed to fostering trust between young people and the government.
“To achieve this synergy, we must wholeheartedly be committed to delivering on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Initiatives” as promised”, she stated.

Hon. Abbah Isah, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on People with Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, emphasized that 40 percent of Nigerian youth living with disabilities face significant hardships, including limited access to basic social amenities, economic instability leading to financial hardship, and inadequate healthcare services.

He also highlighted other challenges that this demographic encounters on a daily basis.

Furthermore, Abah, expressed his appreciation to Mr. President’s for his unwavering dedication to ensure that all segments of society receive the necessary support and attention within the framework of the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of his administration.

In his closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, thanked the participants and stated that the interactive session will be a continuous engagement with critical stakeholders across the country.

GANDUJE PLEDGES INCLUSIVITY AS STATE WOMEN LEADERS PASS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE

The Forum of 36 states women leaders and the Federal Capital Territory of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by its president, Ambassador Patricia Yakubu Tuesday, paid a courtesy call on the National chairman of the party Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje at the National Secretariat of the party in Abuja.

In her speech the President of the Forum, Patricia Yakubu echoed the unanimous decision of the state women leaders to pass a vote of confidence on the National chairman of the party. The forum anchored its decision on the successes recorded since the chairman assumed office, from the high record of decampees to the APC fold, to the election successes recorded recently, so also, the unity achieved among most party stakeholders and followers.

Patricia underscored the fact that the state women leaders are encouraged by the leadership style of the National chairman and prayed for more wisdom and grace to take the party to greater heights.

She further enumerated the sacrifices of APC women during the 2023 election that has contributed emensely in the success of the party but decried the fact that, most women at the state level have not been adequately compensated.

She called on the party leadership to carry women along, ensure inclusivity and full participation in Government programs by ministries and agencies, especially in states where APC does not have state Governors.

Earlier, the National women leader, Mary Alile Idele had congratulated the women for their resilience, sacrifices and efforts in ensuring victory for the party. She appreciated the National chairman for making out time to meet with the state women leaders.

Responding, the National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, promised the state women leaders that their cry has been heard and the party will ensure inclusivity in its programs. Ganduje said the Government of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu is genda sensitive and has given appointments to women more than previous administrations in the country.

Ganduje said the Government is just one year old and their is room for more appointments in the coming days, he promised to ensure that the women are included in programs that will empower them and put smiles on their faces.

Ambassador Patricia, later presented gifts to the National chairman on behalf of the state women leaders.

Anti Vandalism: NSCDC CG’s Special Intelligence Squad Uncovers Pipeline Illegal Connection Points In Rivers State and Re-Affairms Commitment to Combating Crude Oil Theft Across the Nation

By Emmanuel Daudu

In her relentless war against the menace of illegal dealings in petroleum products and economic sabotage in the oil region; the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps; Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi mni. OFR has reaffirmed the Corps’ commitment to waging a relentless war against oil theft across the nation.

According to a press release signed by CSC Babawale Afolabi, National Public Relations Officer, NSCDC Headquarters, Abuja, Dr Audi spoke to the Correspondents of the Corps’ Defenders TV through the CG’s SIS Commander; DC Dandaura Appolos narrated the new strategies put in place by vandals who have recently devised a covert means of operations to prevent security agencies from detecting their mischievous act.

“We were prompted by an Intelligence received while on intensive operational patrol across the Niger Delta; the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad swung into action and uncovered two illegal bunkering sites in different locations where illegal connections were made to syphone Oil from Well Heads using very huge hoses laid and buried underground in a thick forest at Odagwa/Owaza Riverside boundaries of Rivers/Abia State and another site at Odagwa in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State where vandals tampered with Valves of the Manifold and siphoned crude at Imo River 2, Oil and Gas flow station operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Commission (NPDC)”.

“During the operations, we observed that the first local refining site had been earlier destroyed by the security agencies but was later rebuilt to contain over 5 locally fabricated ovens, drums, underground and calibrated plastic surface reservoirs with galvanized metal and heavy-duty hoses and pipes”.

“Some of the exhibits recovered are Heavy duty Hoses, Surface Tanks filled with Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), many drums and kegs, clothing and personal effects while the suspects are currently at large”.

“Storming the second illegal refining site we arrested One (1) Suspect named: John Obinna who was caught in the act; from the statements volunteered by the suspect, he hinted that his work at the site is loading and carrying crude and that other suspects who already took to their heels upon sighting our operatives were already at the verge of refining the crude oil”.

“We also sighted a 20,000 litres capacity trampoline surface reservoir where the major pipes were visibly connected”.

“The following exhibits were further recovered: One (1) new Yellow colour Robin EY 20 Pumping Machine, Blue colour heavy-duty hoses, over 5,000 litres of locally refined petroleum products in cellophane bags and reservoir, about 10,000 litres of AGO stored in a cooking oven, 2 Shovels and Spades, buckets and 4 Flash Headlights”.

“Let me at this point re-assure the public that the NSCDC remain committed to her statutory mandate as the lead agency in safeguarding all critical national assets and infrastructure across the nation”.

“The Intelligence Department has commenced a thorough investigation into the matter and the suspect in custody is currently assisting us in the ongoing investigation as the law takes its course… the CG’s SIS Commander said”.

NiMet And Financial Reporting Council To Collaborate In Promoting Sustainability Practices

Officials of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) of Nigeria, have met to discuss areas of partnership towards improving sustainability practices by corporate organizations in Nigeria.

During a courtesy visit on the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of FRC in Abuja, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, on Monday, 13th May, 2024, the Director General, Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike said; “Climate change is fast becoming a priority for financial regulators. The work we do at NiMet through our weather and climate reports are the foundation for sustainability practices. This partnership will enable NiMet and FRC to jointly develop capacity”.

While welcoming the NiMet team, Dr. Olowo said; “There are opportunities for alignment between NiMet and FRC in fulfilling the core mandates of the two agencies, especially in the areas of sustainability reporting, climate risks and opportunities. Although we are championing sustainability reporting, FRC is also promoting sustainable practices among Nigerian organizations”.

Some directors and senior staff of the two agencies were present during the courtesy visit.

PHOTO NEWS

Left to Right: Dr. Rabiu Olowo, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of Financial Reporting Council (FRC) of Nigeria, and Professor Charles Anosike, Director General, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), during a courtesy visit by NiMet team to FRC in Abuja on Monday, 13th May, 2024.

CSO eulogies kogi governorship Tribunal members, implores judges to stand by truth

By Godwin Anyanwu

A civil society organisation under the aegis of Northern Initiative for the Defence of Democracy( NIDD)has commended the members of the kogi state governorship election tribunal, sitting in Abuja for their resolve to give a fair hearing to all the parties involved in the November 11th gubernatorial election in the state.

The president of the group, Ambassador Nurudeen Musa Sadiq, flanked by his secretary, Hajia Ramatu AbdulRahaman disclosed this at a press conference in Abuja on Saturday.

The president said the decision of the tribunal judges so far expressed neutrality and flexibility, as embedded in its enabling law in handling the disputes arising from the kogi gubernatorial election, saying , the posture is a watershed for an enduring democracy in the country.

Ambassador Sadiq said judges all over the world consider evidence (s) adduced before their courts , including compliance with enabling laws on matters in dispute before passing their judgement.

He said records had shown that disputes arising from election matters in the country were mostly considered on alter of sentiments, technicality as well as personal views of judges and impunity of leaders and other interest groups.

The group said , unfortunately, indication has shown recently that kogi state had been a victim of such judgements, with consequences of emerging leadership devoid of the feelings of the people.

“In one of such judgements in 2016 on kogi gubernatorial tussle , the Apex court set it aside, sensing its flaws as it came up with a caveat that it should not be referred to in the court of the land anywhere in subsequent electoral dispute “, he said .

The group therefore implored the kogi governorship election tribunal to toe the part of honour and do something differently for the court of the land to be seen as the last hope of the deprived, cheated and poor persons in the society.

Ambassador Sadiq said the present tribunal judges have shown there is still hope for the common man in his quest to seek for redress in the court of law in this country by expressing its character according to the enabling law.

He said this can been viewed from the happenings since the tribunal commenced the legal fire work to resolve the dispute arising from kogi gubernatorial election.

The group stated that despite the hiccups created by interest groups in the dispute , the tribunal members stood their ground to ensure that the case before them is given an objective treatment as demanded by the law .

“We are aware of the orchestrated attack and campaign of calumny against the tribunal members from the onset, that supposed to discourage and disarm them to succumb to whims and caprices of the combatants in the disputes , but the judges stood their ground resolutely.

“We are also in the know, how their lives came under threat and attack because of their avowed stance to treat the electoral disputes before them on its merit legally, by orchestrated terrorism against them .

“It’s still fresh in our minds how the tribunal members came under blackmail by interest groups for their refusing to bend the rules or dance to the tune of certain power that be”, said Ambassador Sadiq.

The group therefore implored the judges to stand by the path of truth to the end, and not be deterred by the antics of these tribal and regional leaders who are out to intimidate them to have their way, stressing, history will not forget them when the chips are down and their names will be written with an indelible mark on the sand of time.

Ambassador Sadiq who said the truth remains that the consistency of the tribunal members has made the case to go thus so far, appealed to them to play the game by its rules and declare the right person as decided by electorate on 11th gubernatorial election, for a new dawn in kogi .

He said : “Mark you , the whole world , particularly the helpless electorate in kogi whose votes never counts in previous elections will sieve a sigh of relief for the first time , if the case is treated on evidence as revealed by electoral materials/ equipment , compliance to the rules of the enabling laws and witnesses rather than on technicality, which was the vogue on kogi electoral matters.

“It is worthy of note that as the Plaintiffs and Respondents are closing their case by a way of submitting their final written addresses on the disputed subject matter on 13th May 2024 , the onus lies on the judges to critically assess the evidences before them to pass their judgement.

The group urged the parties in the election dispute to realize that it’s the interest of millions of voters, not parochial interest of leaders or interest groups that matters at the ongoing case in the Tribunal .

Ambassador Sadiq said it makes sense to hear the leaders, saying the poors and the needy should be allowed to breathe, but the poors can only breathe if their votes are allowed to count and the leadership of their choice is enthroned; not being decided on technicality of the law coloured by sentiments and impunity.

Features: What are the ministers doing? – Emmanuel Onwubiko

The current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu came on stream nearly a year ago. As expected the nation’s mass media in line with section 22 of the Nigerian constitution of 1999 as amended, rightfully and legally serves as a vital bridge between the government and the populace, wielding significant influence over the political and socio-economic landscape of the nation. Its role in informing, educating, entertaining, and persuading the good people of Nigeria cannot be overstated, as it navigates the complex terrain of everyday political discourse to uncover truths and hold leaders accountable.

In assessing the government’s performance, the media serves as a necessary intermediary, providing insight and analysis that helps the public gauge the effectiveness and integrity of their elected officials. However, this role is not without its challenges, as political officeholders often seek to manipulate the media for their own gain, resorting to offensive tactics and public relations gimmicks to sway public opinion in their favor.

Yet, the media must tread carefully, recognizing the limits of its influence and the responsibility it bears in shaping, rather than misleading, public opinion. As debates and criticisms surrounding its performance persist, it remains essential for the media to uphold its integrity and commitment to truth-seeking, thereby fulfilling its indispensable role in Nigerian society.

As Nigeria marks the first anniversary of the Tinubu administration, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the journey thus far and the milestones achieved under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. At the heart of this administration’s success lie the dedicated ministers who have worked tirelessly to implement the President’s vision for a renewed Nigeria. From bolstering national security to driving economic growth and cultural revitalization, these ministers have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of our nation.

One such minister whose commitment has been exemplary is the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON. Dr. Matawalle’s unwavering dedication to ensuring the security and well-being of Nigerians has been evident in his tireless efforts to address security challenges comprehensively. His unrelenting commitment to a safer and more secure Nigeria has been a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration’s agenda.

Under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, the Ministry has seen significant strides towards enhancing the security and well-being of Nigerians. Since assuming office on August 21, 2023, Dr. Matawalle has exemplified an unwavering commitment to his duties, aligning with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda to address various security challenges plaguing the nation.

His dedication to fostering a safer and more secure Nigeria is evident through his multifaceted approach to tackling insecurity. His initiatives and policies have been pivotal in curbing threats across different domains, including land, sea, and air. Notably, he has championed inter-ministerial collaboration, recognizing the need for a holistic approach to combating insecurity. Through strategic partnerships and engagements with both domestic and international stakeholders, Dr. Matawalle has worked tirelessly to bring an end to insecurity in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Dr. Matawalle has prioritized the localization of military needs and equipment production through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON). This initiative not only enhances Nigeria’s self-reliance but also contributes to the development of indigenous defense capabilities.

Despite these commendable efforts, there are areas where the Ministry of Defence could further improve. One such area is the need for enhanced synergy between defense and intelligence agencies to ensure more effective counterterrorism operations. Additionally, there is a necessity for increased investment in cybersecurity infrastructure to safeguard against emerging threats in the digital domain.

Overall, Dr. Matawalle’s tenure as Minister of State for Defence has been characterized by steadfast leadership and a relentless pursuit of national security objectives. His achievements underscore his commitment to serving the Nigerian people and upholding the integrity of the nation.

Similarly, the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Ms. Hannatu Musawa, has been a driving force behind the revitalization of Nigeria’s creative sector. Under her leadership, the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy has emerged as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity.

Minister Musawa’s visionary approach has led to significant achievements, including capacity-building initiatives, infrastructure development projects, and strategic partnerships with domestic and international stakeholders. Her commitment to aligning with the priorities of the Renewed Hope Agenda has been pivotal in advancing Nigeria’s cultural heritage and economic growth.

Since its establishment as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy (FMACCE) has undergone a remarkable transformation under the dynamic leadership of Minister Hannatu Musawa.

Despite being relatively new, the Ministry has achieved several significant milestones within a short period, demonstrating its commitment to promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage and leveraging the creative economy for national development. Under Minister Musawa’s stewardship, FMACCE has embarked on various initiatives aimed at fostering the growth and sustainability of the arts, culture, and creative sectors.

The Ministry has trained over 1,000 individuals in professional development programs within the creative sub-sectors, enhancing skills and expertise in the industry. Through public-private partnerships, FMACCE has initiated infrastructure renovation and construction projects, including the ongoing renovation of the National Theatre, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria and The Bankers’ Committee.

In the area of partnerships and collaboration, FMACCE has forged strategic partnerships with renowned international organizations such as the Recording Academy (Grammy’s) and the International Council on Monuments and Sites, facilitating knowledge exchange and collaboration in cultural preservation and promotion.

More so, the Ministry’s interventions have led to the creation of over 250,000 new jobs in the arts, culture, and creative sectors, contributing to Nigeria’s GDP growth and economic resilience.

Additionally, FMACCE has played a significant role in increasing Nigeria’s cultural influence and improving its brand perception globally. Through stakeholder engagement events and industry workshops, the Ministry has fostered dialogue and collaboration within the creative ecosystem, driving innovation and entrepreneurship.

Looking ahead, Minister Hannatu Musawa has set ambitious targets for FMACCE, including the creation of two million jobs by 2027 and a substantial increase in Nigeria’s GDP by 2030. These goals underscore the Ministry’s commitment to harnessing the potential of the creative economy as a catalyst for socio-economic development.

The achievements of FMACCE under Minister Hannatu Musawa exemplify the transformative power of the arts, culture, and creative economy in driving inclusive growth and national prosperity. With visionary leadership and sustained investment, the Ministry is poised to realize its ambitious goals and position Nigeria as a global leader in creative innovation and cultural excellence.

While celebrating these milestones, it is imperative to acknowledge areas where the administration can further improve. One such area is the Ministry of Youth Development, which is seen to be facing challenges of inactivity and incompetence under the leadership of Jamila Bio Ibrahim as Minister, and Ayodele Olawande as Minister of State.

The Ministry of Youth Development, under its current leadership, has been largely inactive and ineffective, failing to make any significant strides towards empowering Nigerian youth or addressing their needs. The minister in charge has demonstrated incompetence and a lack of vision, resulting in a stagnation of youth-focused initiatives and programs.

While youth development is crucial for the socio-economic progress of any nation, the Ministry has failed to devise innovative strategies or implement impactful policies to support this demographic. There is a notable absence of youth-oriented programs aimed at skills development, entrepreneurship, and employment generation.

Furthermore, the Ministry’s lack of visibility and engagement with youth-led organizations reflects a disconnect between the government and the youth population. This failure to effectively engage with stakeholders hampers the Ministry’s ability to understand and address the diverse needs and aspirations of Nigerian youth.

The Minister’s lack of vision and engagement represents a missed opportunity to empower Nigeria’s youth and harness their potential as drivers of socio-economic development. Moving forward, the Tinubu administration must prioritize revitalizing the Ministry of Youth Development, ensuring that it plays a proactive role in addressing the pressing challenges facing Nigeria’s youth population.

To revitalize the Ministry, there is a pressing need for competent and proactive leadership that prioritizes youth empowerment and participation. This includes the implementation of targeted initiatives to foster skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement among young people. Additionally, the Ministry must leverage technology and digital platforms to reach a broader audience and facilitate meaningful youth involvement in decision-making processes.

The Ministry of Youth Development must undergo significant reforms to fulfill its mandate of promoting the well-being and advancement of Nigerian youth. Without decisive action and visionary leadership, the Ministry risks further marginalizing this vital demographic, with far-reaching implications for the nation’s future.

As we commemorate the first anniversary of the Tinubu administration, let us not only celebrate the achievements of the past year but also recommit ourselves to the task of nation-building. With visionary leadership and collective effort, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria for future generations.

The milestones achieved by ministers like Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle and Ms. Hannatu Musawa serve as a testament to the potential of the Renewed Hope Agenda to transform our nation’s trajectory. Together, let us continue to strive for progress and prosperity as we chart a course toward a brighter future.

To conclude this first reflection on these set of ministers under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, I will draw few lessons from a piece titled “The philosophy of good governance”, authored by Rajyogi Brahmakumar Nikunj which was Last Updated on 14 May 2023.

The author wrote that good governance is not an alien concept for a country like India, as even today Ram Rajya connotes the highest achievable level of good governance.

The author further stated that if your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader. -John Quincy Adams

Good governance is not an alien concept for a country like India, as even today Ram Rajya connotes the highest achievable level of good governance.

We must understand a fact that good governance is impossible without statesmen who function according to dharma and spirituality. Aristotle had said that ‘An ideal state would be the one that has a Philosopher King.’ What he, perhaps, meant was that a country which has a person of spiritual wisdom as its head, would deliver better governance.

The writer said that the rationale behind this statement is that it is based on the concept that the state is a family of families. The king, being the head of the state, should consider himself as the father figure or the head of the greater family that is constituted of hundreds of thousands of families. The head of a family runs the affairs of the family with love and care. He is the provider, the sustainer, the protector, the guide, the elderly person who inspires, builds confidence, promotes the well-being of all without prejudices and discrimination and runs the day-to-day affairs wisely, safely, smoothly and to the satisfaction and betterment of all.

Bhagavad Gita says that whatever a leader does, the people will follow and whatever standards or example he sets, people in general will follow. It is therefore imperative; that leaders need to perform their duty in governing effectively for the sake of educating the people in general and lead their countrymen by being an example. This has a great implication for sustainable development as it is a must for leaders to practice what they preach.

In the same breath, Nigerians expect that ministers working for Nigerians appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must be patriotic, respect human rights of citizens, adhere strictly to the constitutional norms of good governance, accountability, transparency and must see their positions not as opportunities for personal aggrandisement or enrichment but that of selfless service to the country and importantly to the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

*EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO is head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and was NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA.

Credit to Alkali as Transport University Daura Enlisted in 2025 TETFUND Intervention Funds

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of Transportation, Sen. Said Alkali has disclosed that through concerted efforts, the University of Transportation, Daura, has been enlisted and incorporated amongst tertiary institutions qualified for next year’s Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

According to Report by Desmond Adyo
SI & PRO (Press & PR) Signed by Muhammad Tahir Zakari AD, Press & PR
For: Director, Press & PR, the Transport Minister made this known during his visit and facility assessment of the university at Daura.

“When i took over as the Minister of Transportation, i was directed by the President and Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue with all the existing contracts, not only to continue but to sustain the contracts in the Ministry of Transportation”.

According to Alkali, he
embarked on an inspection tour, which included the University of Transportation, Daura, constructed by Messrs China Civil Engineering and Construction Company (CCECC) as a Corporate Social Responsibility.

He observed the institutuon was unmistakably lacking in certain infrastructure and with assistance and collaborations of the Ministry of Education, the National Universities Commission, Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, TETFund amongst others, he has been able to achieve considerable progress.

“We have approached TeTFund. The university had made all the checklists of the TETFund, so we will be enlisted against next year so that we have more infrastructure for the university to grow. ” Alkali disclosed.

He also noted that the university was not captured in the Federal Government’s 2023 appropriation, and the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved for the institution to be enlisted in the 2024 appropriation he announced.

Speaking further, the Minister acknowledged the role of the National Universities Commission for appointing the Ahmadu Bello University as a mentor University to enable the university to commence with admission against 2023-2024 academic year.

He expressed the belief that a journey of a thousand miles starts with one step, expressing fervent belief that the university in no distant time would attain the lofty expectation that it was established for.

Lagos- Kano Rail Line Ready For Freight Operations – FG

By Emmanuel Daudu

Freight Services may commence operations soonest on the Lagos- Kano narrow gauge rail line as the contractors, the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) has announced that the line has been linked up to Zawaciki Dala Dry Port, the commercial city of Kano-Nigeria.

This connection is a significant milestone for Freight Services as it will enable the company to transport goods and cargo more efficiently between Lagos and Kano. The completion of the rail link between the two cities will reduce transportation costs and shorten delivery times, benefiting both businesses and consumers.

The China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation has been working on the rehabilitation and modernization of the Lagos-Kano narrow gauge rail line since 2018. The project aims to improve the country’s rail infrastructure by upgrading the existing tracks, constructing new stations and terminals, and enhancing operational efficiency.

With the link to the Zawaciki Dala Dry Port in Kano, Freight Services will be able to offer seamless and integrated logistics solutions to its customers. The dry port serves as an inland terminal where goods can be customs cleared, stored, and transported to their final destinations. By utilizing the rail line, Freight Services can avoid the congestion and delays often associated with road transportation.

According to Chidi Ugwu, the commencement of operations on the Lagos-Kano rail line will also have broader implications for Nigeria’s economy. It is expected to boost trade and commerce between the two cities, facilitate regional integration, and promote economic growth. Additionally, the improved rail connectivity will create job opportunities and stimulate investments in the transport and logistics sector.

Freight Services is now preparing to launch its services on the Lagos-Kano rail line, offering a reliable and cost-effective freight transportation solution to businesses in the region. The company is expected to play a vital role in facilitating trade and contributing to the economic development of Nigeria.

This was disclosed on Thursday by the project contractors, when the Minister of Transportation, Senator Sa’id Alkali, visited the site for on the spot inspection of the project in Kano State.

The Minister said the the commencement of freight operations would preserve the livespan of the nation’s highways as well as save more Nigerians from dieing in auto accidents.

Meanwhile, the Minister expressed satisfaction at the pace of work on the Kano-Maradi standard gauge rail corridor stating that there is marked improvement from what he saw during his first inspection visit to the site.

However, Senator Alkali disclosed that plans are underway to segment the project for easy, efficient and faster completion.

He visited Kaduna-Kano, the site towards Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano, from where he proceeded to kano-maradi, Kazaure, passed through Dambata to Kazaure and finally Daura, where he inspected the Federal University of Transportation in Daura.

“This is the second leg of my inspection since I took over as the minister of Transportation and the essence of the inspection is to see by myself with a team from the minister of Transportation and Engineers from the Railway Corporation and the consultant and the contractors so that we ensure compliance in term of time and in terms of specifications but the impression I have from the last visit I came, the progress is remarkable from what I have seen.

“We came all the way from Kano, we drove on the formation that they did, they are doing the earthwork and the culvert and this is a station where they have started preparing the rail lines and the slippers so that they will use their locomotive to convey the materials on the rail line.

“I have just discussed with the contractor, we are going to segment the project by the grace of God. We are going to put kano-Daura next year and Faira to Maradi in 2026 and Dutse to Kano in 2026.

“It is not this one that is ready for freight. you know, the inspection is in two phases, the one we did today, we inspected kaduna to kano and Kano to Daura and Daura to Maradi.

“The one for Kaduna to Kano, the contractor is CCECC. We are going to put the freight hopefully in the next one month from Lagos to Kano on the narrow gauge.

“We inspected the rail line from the existing Narrow gauge to Dala Inland Dryport because that is where we are going to drop the containers. That one still stands, by May lately by June, we are going to put that Corridor into Freight from Lagos to Kano.

“By this, it will bring the cost Of business to be low. We will reduce the menace of road traffic accident. We will save our highways and the multiplier effect is on the GDP growth of the country.

“I visited Kaduna-Kano, the site towards Dala Inland Dry Port in Kano. And from there, we proceeded to kano-maradi, we are in Kazaure now, we passed through Dambata to Kazaurei and we are proceeding to Daura, to inspect the Federal University of Transportation in in Daura”.

DHQ Receives Improved Armour Personnel Carriers To Curb Insecurity In Nigeria

By Emmanuel Daudu

The fight against insecurity has received a boost with the delivery of an improved version of the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC’s) to fight insecurity in the country. In a brief ceremony today, 8th May 2024, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana who represented the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar handed over the documents and keys of 20 APC to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa.

According to the press release signed by Tukur Gusau, Brigadier General
Director Defence Information, on 8th May 2024, the APC’s are improved version with improved weapons and communication systems that can locate adversaries from distance and engage them effectively. They also allow for seamless military operations.

The Permanent Secretary during the handing over, said he is happy with the current synergy existing among the services, while describing the consideration for contracting local manufacturers for the production of the APC’s as a welcome development. He added that this will save the nation a lot of money, create employment for Nigerians and reduce over reliance on foreign currency.

The CDS in his response thanked the Minister of Defence for the noble act. He pledged to put the carriers to optimum and judicious use. He added that the machines will definitely boost the ongoing operations to rid the country of insecurity.

It could be recall that the APC’s were produced and supplied by an indigenous company based in Nigeria. The chairman of the company, Engineer Kola Balogun, said the company will also train operators and provide after purchase services like maitainance, spare parts, and repairs. According to him, the company will soon start exporting these machines to earn foreign currency for the country.