daudupress

Community to experience street light as David Eikhomun celebrates birthday

By Emmanuel Daudu

The birthday celebration of a nigerian business mogul, Chief David Iriogbe Eikhomun, the CEO of Iracoda Group of Companies has attracted street lightening in a street in Karu Local government Area of Nasarawa State just close to the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The birthday celebration which birthed the development was held on Saturday 17th of February, 2024 at the Alabama Hotel in Karu, Nasarawa State.

During the event, the UN Habitat Ambassador to Nigerian, Dr. Raymond Edoh who was the Special Guest of Honour pledged to install street lights from Jehun junction to alabama hotel.
According to Edoh, the gesture is in line with the UN Habitat agenda for the global betterment of the habitation facilities of every human on the earth.

Also speaking at the event, the CEO, ASQ Group of Companies-UK, Dr. Samson Adeosun has this to say, “On your special day, I want to take a moment to reflect on how grateful we are to have a friend like you in our lives. Your kindness, loyalty, and sense of humor bring so much joy to those around you. You are truly one of a kind and we are so lucky to have you as a friend. May this birthday be just the beginning of a year filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Cheers to you, my dear friend and brother, and all the happiness that is sure to come your way. Happy birthday!”

Similarly, the Executive Chairman of Karu Local government Area of Nasarawa State, Hon. James Thomas while giving his remarks described the celebrant, Chief David Iriogbe Eikhomun as a brother known for honesty, high integrity, diligence, hardwork, patience and his wide philanthropic activities.

Earlier, Chief David Iriogbe Eikhomun in his welcome address thanked everyone who has made it a point of duty to graze his birthday celebration stressing that he doesn’t take the kind words about his person for granted.

However, there was a pre-birthday football competition in his honour aimed at empowering the Nigerian youth as teams retired with lots of prizes.

WAC Boss lauds partnership with Association of Universities of Asia

By Emmanuel Daudu

UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Chairman World Accreditation Commission (WAC) agreement with Association of Universities of Asia and Pacific (AUAP)to boost quality assurance of higher education systems*

The Association of Universities of Asia And The Pacific and the World Accreditation Commission, WAC, yesterday, signed a partnership action plan as WAC’s World Grand Chairman & UNESCO Laureate, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu lauds effort.

During the signing section, Prof. Bashiru Aremu, Chairman, World Accreditation Commission (WAC) disclosed that he is highlighted committed to its mission and vision statement as a worldwide organisation active in the theory and practice of international quality assurance in higher education, which is an official partner of UNESCO.

Also speaking, the Secretary-General,
Association of Universities of Asia and Pacific (AUAP) Distinguished Prof Dr. Anoop Swarup, Prof Sir Baseline Prabhu assured that they will support the World Accreditation Commission (WAC) in various ways such as policy analysis: data analysis, produce scoping study, produce an overall report data collection, publication of research result in line with current issues, trend and challenges in Education and international quality assurance to fulfil World Accreditation Commission (WAC)’s objectives or strategic priorities to produce recommendations.

Also, in his remarks, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu the Vice Chancellor of Crown University & UNESCO laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu disclosed that WAC is aimed at facilitating links between quality assurance agencies and support networks of quality
assurance agencies.
To assist members to determine the standards of institutions operating across national borders
and facilitate better-informed international recognition of qualifications.
“To assist in the development and use of credit transfer and credit accumulation schemes to
enhance the mobility of students between institutions (within and across national borders).
To enable members to be alert to improper quality assurance practices and organisations.
To organise, on request, reviews of the operation of members”, he added

Community market declared open in Sauka-Abuja

By Emmanuel Daudu

Sauka community in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), declared open its own in line with the directive of the honourable minister of FCT, Hon. Wike Nyelsom.

While declaring the market open in an opening ceremony held on Saturday the 17th of February, 2024, the market situated in between Gui and Gbessa communities, would offer a wide range of products ranging from Agric fresh produces, household goods, handmade crafts, clothing, fresh commodity items and banking services.

speaking at the event, the market chairman, Mrs Lucy Fadumila, said the market would promote local entrepreneurship, engage women and youth to boost the economy.

While commending stakeholders for making the market commission a possibility, she said the market will engage youths adequately and help eradicate crime in the community.

Chairman Souka Modern Market Committee, Mrs Fadumila, with members during her welcome remarks
She called on the relevant authorities, particularly the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr Nyesom Wike, to provide the necessary support and resources to ensure the success of the market and help it grow into a thriving business hub.

She said: “I want to thank the women of the community who have made the project a success and the person who gave this land to be used for a market.

“The aim of having the market is to bring people together to buy and sell and in a community where there is no market, that community can not grow but in a community where there is market, there is growth, there is progress, employment and out youths will not go into fraud, armed robbery and other crimes.

“It will also help the women to think of what to do. This will make our women raise up to sell and it will attract people to invest in the community. The market will make our society better, the women and the men will have better things to do.

Traditional dance thrilling audience at Sakura Modern Market
“The appeal we are making to the government is to make this market an ultra modern market because in the whole of the airport road we don’t have many markets.

“Now that they have given us a place for the market, we need light, we need roads. The road is not good. We need them to come and construct the road so that we can have free access to this market.”

The District head of Gui Ward, Alhassan Yusuf, said: “We need the federal government or government of Abuja to help us especially the minister. He should please send his entourage to come and survey this market and see whatever help they have to offer.

“We also call on Non-governmental organizations for the development of the market.”

INSECURITY: DEFENCE MINISTER REAFFIRMS BAN ON UNAUTHORIZED USE OF CAMOUFLAGE

…Says ban on its use by other security agencies remains

Due to the present security situation in the country, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON has reaffirmed the ban on unauthorized use of Military camouflage, saying that it was only the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force while on Joint Operation with the Military are allowed by law to use the Military camouflage.

Henshaw Ogubike, FCAi, fsca, fcpe, mnipr
Director (Information, Press& Public Relations), said in a press release that the Minister’ call is coming at this time when criminals disguised as Military and Para Military personnels to cause havoc in the society.

“The present situation does not support the use of Military camouflage by people who are not authorized or not personnels of DHQ'” he said.

According to him, the criminals among us have had to take advantage of the Military, Police and other security agencies’ gears to perpetrate crimes.

The Minister emphasized that there was the need to streamline the personnels that are authorized to use the Military camouflage.

He said Government ban on other Para Military Agencies from the use of the Military camouflage was to bring sanity to the system and also as a way of checkmating criminal activities.

Dr. Matawalle emphasized the readiness of the Nigeria Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police to enforce the directive given by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, regarding the immediate cessation of the use of camouflage uniforms by para-military agencies.

“The circular titled Observation on Proliferation in the Use of Camouflage Uniforms by Other Security Agencies in Nigeria,” personally signed by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, mandated personnels of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, and the Federal Fire Service, among others, to discontinue the use of camouflage uniforms henceforth, following the directive issued by ONSA.”

Accordingly, the Minister stated that the use of camouflage uniform by various security agencies other than the Armed Forces namely, the Army, Navy and the Air Force remain banned.

He however gave exception to the use by the Nigerian Police Force, which he said they can only use it when on Joint Operation with the Military.

He said the enforcement of the ban becomes imperative in view of the security implications and concerns raised on the clamour of duplicity and proliferation in the country.

He pointed out the importance of this caution saying that: “The measure is aimed at check mating crime rate in Nigeria, adding that if we identify those that are authorized to use the camouflage, we can quickly differentiate them from criminals that intend to confuse us,” he said.

Dr. Matawalle said that henceforth extant laws guiding the use of camouflage uniform in Nigeria would strictly be enforced.

DR. UZODINMA ADIRIEJE’S CITATION AS HE CLOCKS 60 ON 25 Feb., 2024

Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje (Nigerian) is a Health Economist, professional Evaluator, Researcher, ‘One Health’, Human Security and Development Advocate/Campaigner, independent Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Consultant, Certified Management Trainer/Facilitator; Climate Change, Energy and Biodiversity Advocate, Certified Projects/Programmes/Management Consultant, Certified Management Specialist, and PMERLT (Project/Programme Planning/Management, M&E, Research and Learning/Training) Expert; Conference Organizer, Columnist/Writer, Rights Activist, and Facilitator. He is the CEO of Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA) – the CSOs global Network and Think-tank that has more than 2,300 (Two Thousand Three Hundred) member organizations in 106 (one hundred and six) countries across the World. He is AHOA’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and President of the Society for Conservation and Sustainability of Energy and Environment in Nigeria (SOCSEEN). Uzodinma serves as the Administrator/Moderator of 136 (One Hundred and Thirty-six) WhatsApp Groups on various projects/programmes and development interventions.

Dr. Adirieje is a ‘One Health’ Champion and Reproductive Health Advocate, Development Worker, Health and Community Systems Strengthening Specialist, and Community leader. On 29 January 2024, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje was elected as the Chairperson of the Global Civil Society Consortium on Climate Change and the Conferences of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (GCSCCC) – a worldwide/global consortium of civil society organizations and communities engaged in climate change issues. A global civil society leader and founder of the Dr Uzo Adirieje Foundation (DUZAFOUND), Dr Uzo’ (as he’s fondly called) is the National Chairman, of the Civil Society Organizations Strategy Group, Nigeria (CSOSG-SDGs Nigeria) to which more than 80,000 organizations in Nigeria are members; National Chairman and Technical Working Group (TWG) Lead of the Nigerian Science-Policy Platform for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (NiPBES) – co-organizers with UNESCO of ‘Science Advice COVID-19: in the context of biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration’; Member, Technical Committee on Draft Standards for Renewable Energy of the Standards Organization of Nigeria; and Global Coordinator of the Civil Society Actions on Climate, Energy and Biodiversity (CiSACEB) Programme at Afrihealth Optonet Association (AHOA); and Global Coordinator/Founder of the ‘Disability, Elderly, Women, Vulnerable and Youth (DEWVY) Project of AHOA, and Initiator of the After50 Group Club.

A consummate teacher, mentor and facilitator, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje has made scores of presentations and papers. During the past thirteen years, been teaching and providing training and mentorship in the following professional courses: Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E); Health, Community and Development Systems Strengthening; Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilization (ACSM); Gender Mainstreaming in Development; Project and Programme Management; Leadership Development and Organizational Management; and Proposal Writing, Fundraising and Resource Mobilization.

Uzodinma Adirieje is a pioneer Fellow and National President, of the Nigeria Association of Evaluators (NAE) 2019-2022, and the consultant who drafted Nigeria’s Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Policy which was approved by the Nigerian Government. He’s a key participant in Nigeria’s national evaluation of the Sustainable Development Goals 3 & 4. He is an active participant in the African Evaluation Association (AfrEA) and recipient of the 2022 Recognition Award from the International Organization for Cooperation in Evaluation (IOCE) for his “enduring commitment and valuable contributions”. He holds a ‘Certificate of Participation’ from the 7th International Conference on National Evaluation Capacities (NEC 2022) with the theme ‘Resilient National Evaluation Systems for Sustainable Development’ held at the International Training Centre of the ILO (ITCILO) in Turin, Italy, 25-28 October 2022; and organized by the UNDP in collaboration with the Global Evaluation Initiative (GEI). In 2022, Dr Adirieje was one of 8 Africans selected by qualification to participate in the six-week maiden Boot Camp of the International Organization for Cooperation in Evaluation (IOCE). Uzodinma Adirieje was the Chairperson of Nigeria’s National World Malaria Day Committee in 2019; Conference Manager of the International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) in 2005, and Projects Coordinator of the Nigeria National Health Conferences in 2006 and 2009 respectively.

Uzodinma is a member of the ‘Every Woman Coalition’ global group, and his activities in ending gender-based violence (GBV)/violence against women and girls (VAWG) earned him the ‘1000 Voices Fellow’ from ‘Every Woman Treaty’ in 2021. Also, in 2021, Dr. Adirieje led the Advocacy Mission to H.E. President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria, which led to the endorsement of the ‘Every Woman Treaty’ on the floor of the United Nations General Assembly. He was Convener of ‘Taming the Monster: Ending Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and Against Women and Girls During and After COVID-19 Pandemic’, as part of ‘16 Days of Activism’ in 2020. Adirieje is the Global Coordinator of the ‘Civil Society for Elimination of Gender-Based Violence project and author of ‘Female Circumcision/FGM: 40 Dangerous Effects Parents and Relations Must Know 1999’. He is a signatory to ‘Safer Sooner: Toward a Global Binding Norm to End Violence Against Women and Girls’.

In 2019, His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria appointed and inaugurated Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje a member of the National Steering Committee of the Federal Government’s Alternate School Programme (ASP) to address the challenge of Education for out-of-school children in Nigeria, especially in Northern Nigeria. As a researcher and consultant to some United Nations and International Organizations, Uzodinma was the National Team Supervisor and Data Collection Team Leader (data collector, data analyst and data quality assessment) Nigeria Malaria Matchbox Equity Assessment among Internally Displaced Persons/Women and Refugees in the crises-ridden Northeaster Nigeria in 2020’, funded by the Global Fund. He was the keynote speaker on ‘Mitigating the dangers and risks for Nigerian women entrepreneurs post COVID-19’; Project Coordinator, Study of the Impact, Challenges and Long-term implication of Nigeria’s Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Programme, 2006-2007; Principal Investigator (PI)/consultant to UNAIDS/ILO/UNDP/NACA on ‘Situational Assessment for a National Framework for Private Sector Response and Public-Private Partnerships on HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, 2004-2005; Etc.

Dr. Adirieje was the Lead Facilitator for the training of 1,620 women, girls and youths in 81 communities across Nigeria’s 9 oil-producing states in the Niger Delta to stop violence/unrest in oil communities and engage government in development. Dr. Adirieje promotes research and development strategies in climate change, renewable energy, vulnerability, mitigation and adaptation as well as low carbon economy technologies. He is a Federal Government of Nigeria Certified/Licensed Management Trainer and Facilitator; and holds the Certificate in Advanced Management Training/Facilitation from Nigeria’s elite Centre for Management Development, Lagos, Nigeria. He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), Fellow of the African Scientific Institute (FASI), Fellow of the Institute of Management Specialists (FIMS), Fellow of the Afrihealth Optonet Association (FAHOA), and Fellow, Society for Conservation and Sustainability of Energy and Environment in Nigeria (FSEE).

Uzodinma Adirieje’s interests traverse the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, as it affects Nigeria/Africa; adoption of international best practices in mitigation and adaptation using climate resilient actions; mobilizing businesses and industry to invest in renewables to avoid disruptions, including resilience to weather-related impacts of climate change; developing and strengthening the capacity of rural and poor urban communities and climate change activists in such areas as solar panel assembly and manufacturing, assembly of solar components and devices, mini-grid design and deployment and application of internet-of-things (IOT) for systems and development, and producing Climate Change focal points in schools and communities, for climate change interventions. Uzodinma strongly advocates progressive investments in Climate Finance Instruments, Climate Investments, Digital and Circular Economy, Carbon Economy, and Climate Smart Agriculture for effective and result-based adaptation and mitigation of the climate crisis in the world.

During 2012-2013, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje was the Technical Adviser to Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Conference Coordinator for the 2nd GlobalPOWER Women Network Africa (GPWNA) High-Level Meeting (HLM), organized by the Government of Nigeria in collaboration with the African Union and with the support of UNAIDS. He’s National Chairman of the Civil Society Organizations Strategy Group on the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria (CSOSG-SDGs); Consultant who drafted Nigeria’s Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Policy which was approved by the Nigerian Government; and produced Nigeria’s SDG-3/Health Evaluation synthesis. He’s a key participant in Nigeria’s national evaluation of the Sustainable Development Goals 3 & 4; an active participant in the African Evaluation Association and a recipient of the 2022 Recognition Award from the International Organization for Cooperation in Evaluation for his “enduring commitment and valuable contributions”. He’s a Member of the National Technical Working Group on M&E; a member, of the National Core Working Group on 2020 Voluntary National Review (VNR), and Chairman, of the Civil Society Response for Nigeria’s 2020 VNR; Technical Consultant in the Evaluation of Nigeria’s National Social Investment Programme (NSIP) 2016-2022; among others. He was an alternate focal point/member of the Steering Committee and Chair of the Finance and External Relations Committee at the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Associations Alliance (REEEA Alliance, Nigeria). Adirieje participated in the 2018 African Ministerial Conference on Environment (AMCEN) in Nairobi and the 2018 meetings/activities of the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES).

During 2017-2018, Adirieje was Project Director of the vastly media-reported ‘Sustainable Citizen Participation (SCP) in Nigeria’s Niger Delta’ Project funded by the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), which addressed many Energy, Environment and SDGs challenges across 81 communities/local government areas (LGAs) in 9 States Niger Delta.

Uzodinma has over twenty years of proven competencies in managing/supporting and evaluating projects, policies, programmes and interventions that enhance results/productivity, accountability, inclusivity and transparency in Society Welfare/Social Safety nets, Development Work, Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Health; using Partnerships/Collaborations, Advocacy, Research/Evidence, Capacity/Organizational Development, Community Engagements, and Outreach interventions. Dr Adirieje is a gender activist, and author of the ‘Female Circumcision (Female Genital Mutilation): 40 Dangerous Effects Parents and Relations Must Know; and Nutrition for All Ages – A Pocket Guide (publications now catalogued at the Media/Materials Clearinghouse of the Johns Hopkins University, USA, for worldwide distribution, as M/MC ID#: PL NGA 318 and 398 respectively)’. He’s successfully conceptualised/planned and managed scores of local and international conferences, workshops, trainings, seminars, symposia, research, advocacy, health and development programmes, projects and activities/interventions.

A consummate community leader per excellence, Adirieje has served his ancestral communities in several ways including being the President of the Imo State Towns Development Association Lagos (ISTDAL), General Secretary of the Igbo States Development Union Lagos, General Secretary of the Orsu LGA Towns Development Union (OLGADU) Lagos, President General of the Ebenasaa Autonomous Community in Orsu LGA of Imo State, President of the Abia State University Alumni Association Abuja Nigeria (ABSUAA), and so on.

As a Catholic Church adherent, and a member of the noble order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI), Dr High Chief, Sir Uzodinma Adirieje has been Grand Chief Protocol Officer, KSJI, Abuja Grand Commandery; 1st Vice President, St. Martin Commandery of the KSJI, Lugbe; former Local Commander, St. Agnes Commandery, Wuye; Pioneer President, Lugbe Deanery Catholic Men Organizations [LDCMO]; 2 terms President, St. Martin Parish CMO; Chief PRO, Abuja Archdiocesan CMO; Vice Chairman, Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), St. Martin Parish; member, Cathedral Building Committee, Abuja Catholic Archdiocese; Member, Abuja Archdiocesan Pastoral Council; etc.

Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje holds the Nze-na-Ozo traditional title of Nze Akuzuobodo, and the chieftaincy titles of High Chief Ugwumba of Amaruru Clan, Ahaejiejemba Ebenasaa, Ahaejiejemba Amaruru, Ahaejiejemba Ndigbo Lagos State, etc. He is Ezinna CMO [Catholic Men Organization], St. John of the Cross Parish, Amaruru, Orlu Diocese; Ezinna CWO [Catholic Women Organization], St. Martin Parish, Lugbe Abuja; Patron of CWO, St. John of the Cross Parish, Amaruru, Orlu Diocese; Patron of CYON [Catholic Youth Organization of Nigeria], St. John of the Cross Parish, Amaruru, Orlu Diocese; Patron of St. Cecilia Choir, St. Martin Parish, Lugbe Abuja; Patron of Divine Mercy, Abuja Catholic Archdiocese; etc. He is officially honoured as the Ambassador of Education, Orsu LGA, Imo State. Dr. Uzo’ is joyfully married to his bestie-for-life Lady (Chief) Edith Uzo Adirieje, Lolo Ugosimba, Ezidibuogaranya, Eziadaukwu, former President of the CWO, St. Martin Parish, Lugbe Abuja; and they have three children namely Chibueze, Chinaza and Chinemezu. His late parents are Honourable Chief (Nze) Adirieje Fredrick Akujekwe and Nneoma (Lolo) Esther Ahuruchi Adirieje Akujekwe, of Umuogu village, Ebenasaa/Amaruru, Orsu Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria.

Over the last three decades, Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje has received several awards for his numerous contributions to humanity and the professions, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the CSR Reporters, Hall of Fame Award of Professional and Philanthropic Excellence from the ISTDAL, Presidential Award for Membership Growth from the International President of Rotary International, Distinguished Service Award from Rotary International District 914, Exemplary Catholic Man of Honour from the Ancient and Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International Commander 472 Abuja. The Orsu LGA has named and honoured him as Ambassador of Education of the LGA. He has been honoured as Grand Patron of the ISTDAL, Grand Patron of OLGADU, and Patron of several other groups.

Dr. Uzo’ was born on Tuesday, Afo market day, 25 February 1964. He is the second of the eight surviving children of his parents. Among the schools he attended are Community Primary School I, Amaruru; Eziachi Secondary School, Orlu; Federal School of Arts and Sciences, Ondo; Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria; etc. His hobbies include community work and discussions of contemporary issues. He owes his accomplishments to God’s endless grace and mercy toward him and his concerns.

Olawande Partners State Commissioners To Address Challenges Confronting the Youth

Maryam Aminu

Since assumption of office, the Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande has continued to vigorously express concerns over issues affecting Nigerian youths.

In a bid to check the rising unemployment among young Nigerians, the Federal Ministry of Youth is set to empower and train 7 million Nigerian youth with at least two skills each through the about-to-be launched Nigeria Youth Academy NIYA initiatives.

Olawande made this known on Thursday when he played host to State Commissioners for Youth and Sports Development in his office in Abuja

He said the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) is a dynamic Youth-Focused Education and Empowerment Platform poised to impact millions of youths across Nigeria.

According to the Minister, the objective of the meeting was to have a strong collaboration with State Commissioners from the 36 states of the nation in order to guarantee effective replication of Federal Government initiatives and programmes aimed at addressing the challenges confronting youths in the nation.

He emphasized the need to change the narrative through engagements with the youth from different states and provision of the enabling environment to make them productive.

The Minister also emphasized to the commissioners the need for cooperation in order to ensure seamless implementation of youth programmes and policies, most especially at the state and local government levels.

“In line with the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President on access to capital, job creation, poverty reduction, food security, and inclusion, the Ministry is working with the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a digital platform to educate, empower and elevate millions of Nigerian youths in areas of capacity building, entrepreneurial support, mentorship and much more,” the Minister said.

He further revealed that the Government will train inmates on skills acquisition, adding that the current administration believes that this approach would guarantee the reduction in the number of repeat offenders and also enhance the reintegration of the inmates who are predominantly youths into the society.

Speaking further about other activities of the Ministry, the Minister observed that the “youth engagement activities which already
commenced in Borno State will continue so that at every point, there is always a platform for youths to offer their ideas and make inputs into government policies and programmes.”

“We are equally working, exploring the prospects of establishing a ‘Green House’ in each Local Government Area that will serve as a facility where unemployed young people at the Local Government level can go to access support and begin their journey towards a productive and gainful engagement,” he added.

Olawande explained that the Ministry will partner with the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Bank of Industry (BoI) and other Ministries, Department and Agencies to tackle the challenges confronting the youths.

In his words, he said, “As the Minister of Youth Development, I am aware that Nigeria has a high population of youths who make critical contributions in the economic development of the nation. In today’s dynamic world, the youths are the driving force in shaping the economic growth of any nation. Therefore, harnessing this energetic and vibrant youth demography has become imperative for the country’s progress and development.” He said.

The leader of the Forum of State Commissioners of Youth and Sports Development, Nigeria, Bashir Datti, who is also the Commissioner of Youth and Sports, Plateau State assured the Minister that the Commissioners from various States are ready to collaborate and support the Federal Government to achieve these goals, adding that the youths have to be engaged to shun social vices.

INSECURITY: Matawalle cautions Nigerians against use of Inflammatory words on Government

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, has cautioned Nigerians against using inflammatory comments against the government, saying that such comments are unnecessary.

According to Henshaw Ogubike, FCAi, fsca, fcpe, mnipr Director (Information , Press& Public Relations) in a press release he signed today, the Minister made this call against the backdrop of some unguarded utterances coming from some sections of the populace.

“Such comments are
incisive and destructive and can exacerbate tensions and lead to violence in our beloved nation,” he said.

Dr. Matawalle said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has the capacity and political will and he is working round the clock to see that Nigeria is better and a well secured nation.

The Minister also highlighted the various policies Tinubu’s government has put in place so far to reshape and modernize our economy and to secure lives, liberty and property of the people.

Accordingly, Mr. President has given priority to the safety of citizens by equipping the Nigerian Military to function optimally while the Service Chiefs have also been charged to rebuild the capacity of the security Services.

Speaking on the economy of the nation, Matawalle said that the President understands the nexus between insecurity and poverty and that was why the government is increasing
its investment in MSMEs. This is in addition to the 15 Million vulnerable households that will be added to the extended social safety net.

Continuing, the Minister said that: “Just few days ago, the President approved the creation of a committee that included the State Governors and Federal representatives that will explore among other things the possibility of establishing State Police that will help in check mating crimes.

The Minister however underscored the importance of unity, stating that what affects one Nigerian ultimately affects the entire nation.

“It is imperative for us as Nigerians to embrace dialogue and understanding in addressing our differences. We must remember that our strength lies in our diversity, and only through unity can we overcome the challenges facing our nation,” he said.

Furthermore, the Minister said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR is trying his best in tackling the economic challenges being experienced by Nigerians. While acknowledging the global nature of the challenges, Dr. Matawalle reassured the public that the President and his team are tirelessly working to alleviate the burdens on the Nigerian populace. He advised the agents of disunity to refrain from further unwarranted utterances, as such will have consequences.

Accordingly, Dr. Matawalle urged all citizens to prioritize peace, tolerance, and national cohesion in their words and action, as we collectively strive towards building a prosperous and harmonious Nigeria.

NCSCN pass vote of confidence on NUC Acting Executive Secretary, Mr Chris Maiyaki base on giant strides

Simeon Monday

The premium, globally placed on education towards human and national development cannot be controverted or over emphasized, and must continuously be advocated for, in order to achieve optimal productivity in any society.

In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and his campaign promises, the NUC Acting Executive Secretary, Mr Chris Maiyaki has achieved much in the education sector base on evidential giant strides of achievements to his credit.

His achievements raises much confidence in the heart of the people of Nigeria for reformation and improvement of the sector.

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, NCSCN, in a press conference held on Wednesday in Abuja has passed a vote of confidence on the Acting Executive Secretary, NUC, Mr. Chris Maiyaki.

According to the NCSCN Executive Director, Amb. Blessing Akinlosotu,
“We are gathered here today, to make public the NCSCN Position Paper after carefully assessing the performances of the current Administration on the University Educational Sector, with special focus on the Federal Ministry of Education and the National University Commission (NUC). President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR has asserted his commitment to educational development by appointing an astute Academician and renowned Administrator, Prof. Tahir Mamman as Honourable Minister of Education, to lead the kick-starting of his educational policy implementation. Shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office, he signed the Student Loan Bill into Law within few months as President; an action that remains a monumental achievement which goes a long way to underscoring the high priority his Government places on Tertiary Education, thus providing opportunity for expansion of access to higher education for indigent students, across the federation. Equally the removal of Universities from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), which enhances corporate governance of the universities and removes unnecessary bottle necks in implementations of programmes and projects by the Institutions. This single action also underscores Mr. President’s compliance of the subsisting court order in that regard and respecting the yearnings of university based unions”.

According to comr. Blessing A . Akinlosotu , he assured the people of Nigerian and the students in particular that the loan will soon be in process not just for the people of Nigeria but for the poor Nigeria’s who has no money to pay for their academic.he also made it clear that the loan will be easier for the poor Nigerian to have access to it .

“Furthermore, implementation of the newly redeveloped Core Curriculum Minimum Academics Standards (CCMAS), which offers the Universities the opportunity to develop 30 per cent contents of its Curriculum while 70 per cent is provided by the NUC is a major milestone in attainment of functional and qualitative education in Nigeria. This is expected to impact positively on Nigerian Universities as it would assist in producing highly skilled, fit-for-purpose graduates, in line with current realities of our country.

“The Federal Government, through the Honourable Minister of Education, has approved the policy framework for Transnational Education, hoped to facilitate collaborations and partnerships between tertiary institutions in Nigeria and other universities globally. The Council is satisfied with the Educational Policy Trust of Mr. President and choice of Prof. Tahir Mamman as Honourable Minister for Education and Dr Tanko Sununu as Honourable Minister of State (Education), while urging the Minister and Management of the Ministry to continue in this positive direction. We all can also recall the recent exposure of a University in Benin Republic that for years has been awarding highly compromised Degrees to Nigerians within few months of studies and stern actions taken by the National University Commission (NUC).

“The commitment of NUC under the leadership of the Acting Executive Secretary, Mr Chris Maiyaki has been very impressive, as the Commission has embarked upon ridding Nigeria of substandard academic delivery. On the other hand, the international ratings of our Universities have begun to witness steady ascension due to pragmatic regulations by the leadership and management of the NUC boosting the morale and welfare of the staff of the Commission to achieve more. Our interactions with staff of the Commission yielded commendable testimonials as they expressed high satisfaction and confidence in the administrative performance of the management under the Mr Chris Maiyaki.

“The Council’s findings also revealed that the working relationship between the management of the Commission and Vice Chancellors of the Universities has appreciably improved in recent times, under the Acting Executive Secretary who grew up through the Commission’s ranks to this point of high responsibility. In pursuit of the advocacy of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria for encouraging performing CIVIL SERVANTS holding public offices and providing positive continuity in governance, we strongly recommend for the consolidation on these gains made in the university sub-sector especially by the NUC and to promote stability and progress in the purely administrative of role of the NUC to continue to oversee and regulate our ivory towers effectively with the benefit of hindsight and experience, and this is exactly what Mr Chris Maiyaki is presently providing at the NUC”, he added.

Civil Society Council of Nigeria calls for investigation over helicopter crash that killed Nigerian Bank CEO, others

The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria, NCSCN, has called for the immediate investigation of the helicopter crash in Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border on Friday night claiming the life of the Access bank CEO, Herbert Wigwe, wife, son, former Group Chairman of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Abimbola Ogunbanjo and two other pilots.

NCSCN made the call on Sunday, 11th of Feb., 2024, in a press release signed by its Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu.

According to the Executive Director of the Council, Blessing Akinlosotu, the crash is suspicious, and there is a need for urgent and in-depth investigation.
“The tragic helicopter crash that took the life of Herbert Wigwe, Chief Executive of Access Bank, in California’s Mojave Desert is a devastating incident that requires a thorough investigation, the circumstances surrounding the crash must be thoroughly examined to determine the cause and prevent similar accidents in the future.

“In fact, how can a chartered Airbus EC130 helicopter flying from Palm Springs, California, to Boulder City, Nevada, just outside of Las Vegas, operated by California-based charter company Orbic Air, taking off around 8:45 p.m. PT and crashed just after 10 p.m. near Interstate 15 in Halloran Springs, California, just like that?”

“According to the report, the helicopter caught fire upon impact. Witnesses also reported rain and a wintry mix when the crash happened.

“We at the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria are calling on the authorities and the United States Government to launch a comprehensive investigation into the crash, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the helicopter’s maintenance records and flight data. It is essential to uncover any potential factors that may have contributed to the crash, such as mechanical issues, pilot error, or environmental conditions.

“Additionally, all individuals and entities involved in the operation of the helicopter should be properly investigated to provide a clear understanding of what led to the tragedy. This includes the helicopter company, pilot, and any other relevant parties.

“Nigeria, the family, friends, and colleagues of Herbert Wigwe deserve answers and open reports in the wake of this devastating loss. The investigation must be conducted thoroughly and transparently to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies. “

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Nigerians and the Nigerian government, and the families of the demised, may we all find strength and comfort. Herbert Wigwe will be greatly missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, “Akinlosotu added.

NiMet And NIRSAL Plc To Collaborate And Boost Agricultural Productivity In Nigeria

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL Plc) have announced that they will collaborate on several projects to boost agricultural productivity in Nigeria.

This followed a meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, 14th February, 2024, at NIRSAL Plc’s headquarters, between the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, and the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NIRSAL, Abbas Umar Masanawa, OON.

While speaking at the meeting, Professor Anosike said; “The urgency of climate action requires that critical stakeholders collaborate, invest in preparedness and ensure that smallholder farmers are protected by early warnings of climate disaster. NiMet is keen on exploring opportunities for both NiMet and NIRSAL to partner in de-risking agriculture. With the work that NiMet does and the data it generates on a daily basis, this will help farmers to plan effectively and efficiently”.

Concluding, Professor Anosike said; “Climate change impacts greatly on farming activities and agricultural yield, hence the need for data-driven farming operations. This will help to de-risk the agricultural value chain”.

While welcoming the NiMet team led by Professor Anosike to NIRSAL, the Managing Director/CEO, Abbas Umar Masanawa, OON, said that NiMet has done well over the years not only in the aviation sector but also in the other economic sectors including agriculture. “The DG/CEO of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike and his team have been doing very well not only in aviation but in agriculture as well. NIRSAL is interested in collaborating with them to support small holder farmers for increased productivity. This is in line with NIRSAL’s mandate”.

Masanawa said that collaborating with NiMet is critical as the focus will be on increasing primary production. “This will be beneficial to all as the farmers are the ones that are most vulnerable. We are also happy that NiMeT downscales its weather and climate data and information in different local Nigerian languages for wider reach and understanding”.

“A technical committee will be set up for the benefit of Nigerians and small holder farmers, drawn from experts from NiMet and NIRSAL to operationalize quickly the various areas of interest including but not limited to training, data sharing, setting up weather stations etc”, Masanawa concluded.