Hajiya Halima Shehu Continues Comprehensive Inspection of Warehouses, Ensuring NSIPA’s Operational Excellence

By Emmanuel Daudu

Hajiya Halima Shehu, the dedicated National Coordinator and CEO of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), continues her vigilant oversight by conducting thorough inspections of warehouses across strategic locations.

According to Jamaludeen Kabir, National Communication Manager, NSIPA, in a press release on 10/12/2023, disclosed that following her recent visit to a set of warehouses, Hajiya Halima Shehu embarked on a second round of inspections, underscoring her commitment to ensuring optimal efficiency within NSIPA.

On 6/12/23, the esteemed National Coordinator meticulously examined warehouses situated in Dei-Dei, Kubwa, and Idu, reinforcing the agency’s unwavering dedication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Similar to her previous visit, Hajiya Halima Shehu exhibited a hands-on approach, assessing inventory levels, storage conditions, and logistical arrangements. Her keen attention to detail underscored the importance of maintaining well-organized and adequately stocked warehouses to support NSIPA’s multifaceted initiatives.

In her interactions with warehouse managers and staff, Hajiya Halima Shehu reiterated the pivotal role these facilities play in NSIPA’s mission to facilitate social investment programs across the nation. She emphasized the necessity for streamlined processes, timely distributions, and stringent quality control measures to ensure the effective implementation of various aid programs under NSIPA.

As Hajiya Halima Shehu continues her proactive assessments, her hands-on leadership approach solidifies NSIPA’s position as a cornerstone in actualizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for a more inclusive and empowered

Mysterious 138,000 Votes in Okene: Why Does Yahaya Bello Hate President Tinubu So Much?- By Muhammed Faruk

November 11, 2023, might have come and gone, but an essential question persists: Why does Yahaya Adoza Bello harbor such animosity towards President Tinubu? Even though Bello belongs to the same ruling APC as Mr. President, his actions and inactions consistently demonstrate a deep-seated dislike.

Allow me to take you through recent events. During the run-up to the presidential election earlier this year, the APC Northern governors convened and agreed to support BAT for the APC presidential ticket. However, Yahaya Bello vehemently disagreed. He walked out on his colleagues, publicly declaring that he wouldn’t step down for anyone, as he believed the office wasn’t anyone’s birthright, particularly referring to BAT (Tinubu). Bello even mocked and mimicked Tinubu in various viral videos, stating he was too old for the presidency.

One of Bello’s handpicked delegates for the presidential primary, Kabir Bala, aka Okwo, stood firm in supporting Tinubu for the APC ticket. This enraged Bello, who reopened Okwo’s past crimes that Bello himself had previously claimed to pardon. Bello’s frustration peaked when Okwo declared support for Muritala Ajaka instead of Bello’s favored candidate. Subsequently, Yahaya Bello orchestrated the extrajudicial killing of Okwo for siding with Tinubu and Muritala Ajaka. May his soul rest in peace.

However, despite Tinubu’s victory in the primary election, Bello did not support Tinubu’s presidential ambition. He instructed his appointees and allies to vote for whomever they pleased, asserting that he would never support a Tinubu presidency. This was evident in the election results: Tinubu only managed to secure 22,038 votes in Bello’s Local Government, Okene, out of 141,000 voters. This disparity is striking and seems unjust to President Tinubu and the APC that contributed to Bello’s rise.

Similar discrepancies occurred in all the Local Governments in the Central region (the records are available for verification). Bello has now compelled Ododo to pledge unlimited access to the state’s resources to support his (Bello’s) presidential bid in 2027, positioning himself against President Tinubu. However, the reasons behind Bello’s deep-seated animosity toward Mr. President remain unclear.

Perhaps it’s worth probing President Tinubu to understand why Yahaya Bello holds such strong resentment toward him.

Kogi People’s Parliament President
Comrade Muhammed Faruk

Kogi: Group says  electoral materials to be shifted to Abuja

A youth group under the umbrella of kogi youth frontier (KYF) has appealed to the national chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, professor Yakubu mamoud to evacuate all the electoral materials used in the 11th November governorship election in the  state to Abuja to avoid its destruction by aggrieved various interest groups.

The chairman of the KYF , Alhaji Danjuma Ibrahim declared this in Lokoja on Friday to newsmen, saying that relocation of Electoral materials  from its present place for proper legal scrutiny  is the only way not to say  “good bye to democracy” in this country.

The group said the prevailing circumstances has created fragile security in the state, as the aggrieved or belligerent stakeholders  are out launching attack on the electoral materials and  bodies  or things connected with that election.

While the group praised the wisdom of the Court of Appeal   to  relocate the election Tribunal to Abuja for its subsequent sittings due to insecurity situation, it advised the electoral umpire to as a matter of urgency key to this decision/ wisdom and evacuate the materials used in the said election to avoid being tempered with before the tribunal proceedings kick- off fully .

“The interest groups in the recent concluded gubernatorial election have created fears of unknown in the state because of vaulting ambition of stakeholders.

“There is a threat to burn down INEC office and officials ,including the materials used in the election by sponsored unruly youths .

“Tribunal members are no longer safe ,as they cannot move freely without looking at their back . The secretary of the state  election Tribunal, David Umar Mark and two perceived  INEC staff escaped death by whiskers few days ago in Lokoja, with all documents at this disposal taken away at gun point by their assailants .

“The scenario therefore has painted a route to anarchy in the state as gladiators and stakeholders in the interest groups are at dagger drawn and  putting everything into the struggle to achieve their aim.

“In the interest of peace, justice and principle of fair play, we call on the national chairman to relocate Electoral materials to Abuja since is the only way the litigants in the election can process and prove  their allegations in the said election” ,said the group .

While the group said it’s disheartening to see Stakeholders playing the ostrich in their bid to actualise their inordinate ambition, with claims and counter claims renting the political air space in the state, Ibrahim harps on decorum, morality and decency in a seemingly posture  of by- all- means/ tricks  of the players , which has put the lives and property on the edge in kogi .

Maida Promises Support for Meta on Undersea Cable Initiative

By Emmanuel Daudu

Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has said the support of the Commission awaits law-abiding investors like Meta, (formerly Facebook), which responds positively to Nigeria’s desire for investments that promote the agenda of government to achieve a robust digital economy.

Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs in a press release on December 3, 2023, stated that Maida, who spoke when he received a delegation of Meta, led by the company’s Vice President for Africa, the Middle-East and Turkey, Kojo Boakye, when they visited NCC’s headquarters in Abuja, said the regulatory support to all investors, including operators in Nigeria, will be predicated on their playing by the rules and regulations guiding the sector.

He said the Commission places a lot of premium on compliance to industry laws, regulations and guidelines as such will also engender a level-playing field for all licensees and other stakeholders in the industry for sustaining a healthy competition and guaranteeing a sustainable growth in the Nigerian telecoms sector.

Boakye informed NCC boss that the purpose of the visit was to congratulate the EVC on his appointment by the President and to intimate him of ongoing efforts to land 2Africa Cable in Nigeria.

At 45,000 kilometres long, Boakye said the 2Africa submarine cable will be one of the world’s largest subsea cable projects and will interconnect Europe (eastward via Egypt), Asia (via Saudi Arabia), and Africa. He said the system will go live in 2023, delivering more than the total combined capacity of all subsea cables currently serving Africa, with a design capacity of up to 180 terabytes per second (Tbps).

Boakye stated that 2Africa will deliver much-needed Internet capacity and reliability across large parts of Africa, supplement the fast-growing capacity demand in the Middle East and underpin further growth of 4G, 5G and fixed broadband access for billions of people, especially in Nigeria.

He solicited NCC’s support in sailing through all necessary legal and regulatory hurdles in landing the submarine cable to complement existing backbone infrastructure in Nigeria. He also said Meta, through a consortium, plans to land 2Africa cable simultaneously in Lagos and Akwa-Ibom States “in order to ensure those not yet connected are connected while those already connected are given opportunity for enhanced and affordable access.”

Competition key in telecom sector, says Maida

By Emmanuel Daudu

Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the Nigeria Communications Commission, Dr. Aminu Maida, has said competition is key to the healthy growth of the telecoms sector.

Reuben Muoka, Director, Public Affairs in a press release signed on December 7, 2023, Maida, who spoke on Wednesday when he received a delegation of management of Airtel Networks Limited in Abuja, said the Commission will give closer attention to managing the competition in the industry.

“We are more inclined to promote competition by creating a level-playing ground for all our licensees,” he said.

The NCC boss explained that the Commission is looking at all sides of the issue on competition in the sector.

“Indeed, the rising cost of business is affecting every sector. We are also looking at a win-win regulatory approach, but we need to be careful to avoid over-regulation, as over-regulation is inimical to competition in the industry,” he added.

“The NCC has recently undertaken the review of all categories of licences, both class and individual, with a view to ensuring that our licensees are still able to work well within their capital and operating expenditure (COPEX),” he said.

In the same vein, Maida during the visit by the Airtel delegation said, in line with regulatory approach, the Commission considers it critical to have a win-win strategies and regulatory framework in place to ensure sustainability of the telecom industry.

“It’s critical for the NCC and telcos to develop win-win strategies for the Nigerian telecom industry so that everybody gets value. The Minister has a blueprint, the President has the Renewed Hope Agenda, and they need to achieve it while telcos need to deliver value to the customers,” he said.

The Airtel Network delegation was led by the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Carl Cruz, who congratulated the EVC for his appointment by the President and confirmation by the Senate.

Cruz said while the Commission deserves commendation for its competition regulatory policies and frameworks, which it has put in place over the years, such efforts must be sustained to ensure a healthy competitive environment for telecom licensees.

Dr. Raymond Edoh appointed UN Volunteer Ambassador

By Abigail Kaura

The United Nations Habitat Ambassador to Nigeria, and Life Fellow, International Chartered World Learned Society, ICWLS, USA, Dr. Raymond Edoh has been appointed UN Volunteer Ambassador to Nigeria.

The event which took place at the National Press Centre, Radio House, Abuja during the UN Volunteer International Day had in attendance men of timber and caliber across the Political, Volunteerism and the United Nations space.

The Secretary to the government of the federation, Sen. George Akume while declaring the event open lauded the efforts of the United Nations in making the event a hug reality stating that a lot needs to be done in the Volunteering space in the country.

However, he charged the appointed to remain focused and diligent to duty as he congrats volunteers in Nigeria.

While reacting to the appointment, Amb. Dr. Raymond Edoh assured Nigerians of his resolve in making the Nigerian Volunteerism space a better macrocosm for all volunteers.

Speaking further, he urged the federal government to consider volunteers worthy of statutory subvention monthly.

“On this special occasion of the UN International Volunteers Day, I want to take a moment to express my deepest appreciation for your incredible dedication, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

“Today, we come together to celebrate each and every one of us, recognizing the invaluable contributions we have made and continue to make to society. Our acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity have touched countless lives and have brought hope and support to those in need.

Volunteers like you and I are the backbone of progress and change. Our enthusiasm and passion inspire others to join in and create a ripple effect of goodwill. Whether you have dedicated your time to environmental conservation, humanitarian aid, education, healthcare, or any other noble cause, your efforts, my efforts have made a tangible difference and have helped build a better world.

“Volunteering is not just about the tasks we perform; it goes beyond that. It is about the empathy, understanding, and love you share with those you serve. It is about forging connections, fostering unity, and breaking down barriers. Your willingness, to lend a hand, offer a listening ear, or provide a shoulder to lean on is a testament to the power of humanity and the spirit of solidarity.

“In the face of adversity, you have been beacons of hope, bringing light to the darkest corners of our global community. Our resilience and determination have shown us that no challenge is insurmountable when we stand together and work towards a common goal.

“Today, let us not only celebrate our achievements but also reaffirm our commitment to promoting volunteerism and creating an environment where more individuals are inspired to contribute their time and skills for the betterment of society. Our stories and experiences serve as a powerful reminder that each one of us has the capacity to make a difference, no matter how big or small.

“Voluntarism is a philosophy or belief system that emphasizes the importance of voluntary action and individual initiative in solving social and economic issues. It promotes the idea that individuals and communities should take responsibility for addressing societal challenges through voluntary efforts rather than relying solely on government intervention.

“Voluntarism recognizes the power of individuals to create positive change by actively engaging in volunteer work, community service, and charitable activities. It highlights the value of personal choice, free will, and the desire to contribute to the well-being of others.

“Voluntarism can manifest in various forms, such as volunteering at local nonprofits, participating in community development projects, offering skills and expertise for the betterment of society, or even initiating grassroots movements to address specific social issues. It often operates on the belief that individuals possess unique talents, resources, and perspectives that, when combined, can make a significant impact on the world around them.

“This philosophy emphasizes the importance of civic engagement and encourages individuals to become active participants in shaping their communities. It fosters a sense of social responsibility, empathy, and interconnectedness, as volunteers work together to create positive change and address the needs of vulnerable populations.

“Voluntarism is not limited to any specific sector or field but can encompass a wide range of areas, including education, healthcare, environmental conservation, disaster relief, poverty alleviation, and many others. It recognizes that the challenges faced by society are multifaceted and require diverse solutions, which can often be found through the collective efforts of passionate individuals.

“Overall, voluntarism promotes the idea that everyone has the ability to contribute to the betterment of society and that voluntary action has the power to transform communities, empower individuals, and create a more just and compassionate world.

“The youth play a crucial role in volunteerism and contribute significantly to the betterment of society. Volunteerism refers to the act of giving one’s time, skills, and resources for the benefit of others without expecting any monetary compensation. Here are some key aspects of the youth’s role in volunteerism:

“Social Impact: Youth volunteers have the potential to create a substantial social impact. Their energy, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives can bring about positive change in various areas such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, poverty alleviation, and community development. Through their voluntary efforts, young people can address local needs, promote social justice, and drive sustainable development.

” Skill Development: Engaging in volunteer activities provides young individuals with opportunities to develop valuable skills and competencies. They can enhance their leadership abilities, communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving capabilities, and organizational skills. Volunteerism enables youth to gain practical experiences, which can be beneficial for their personal growth, educational pursuits, and future career prospects.

“Advocacy and Awareness: Youth volunteers often serve as advocates for causes they are passionate about. They can raise awareness about social issues, advocate for policy changes, and mobilize communities to take action. Through their involvement in volunteerism, young people amplify the voices of marginalized groups, promote inclusivity, and contribute to shaping a more just and equitable society.

” Inter-generational Bridge: The youth serve as a bridge between generations, connecting older and younger individuals within communities. By volunteering, young people have the opportunity to learn from experienced adults, tap into their wisdom, and build inter-generational relationships. This exchange of knowledge and experiences fosters mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration.

” Inspiration for Peers: When young individuals actively engage in volunteerism, they inspire their peers to get involved as well. Youth-led initiatives and projects can motivate others to recognize the importance of community service and encourage them to contribute their time and skills. By setting positive examples, young volunteers inspire a culture of volunteerism among their peers, creating a ripple effect that expands the reach of social impact.

“Global Perspective: Volunteerism can expose young people to diverse cultures, communities, and global issues, fostering a broader perspective and a sense of global citizenship. Through international volunteer programs and initiatives, youth can learn about different societies, develop empathy, and contribute to international development efforts. This global outlook equips them with the knowledge and empathy needed to address complex global challenges.

“It is essential for societies and organizations to provide platforms and support systems that empower youth to engage in volunteerism effectively. Recognizing the potential of young volunteers and involving them in decision-making processes can lead to more inclusive and sustainable solutions. By nurturing and harnessing the passion and energy of the youth, volunteerism can become a powerful force for positive change in society.

“The government plays a crucial role in fostering and supporting volunteerism within a society. Here are some key aspects of the government’s role in volunteerism:

“Policy and Legislation: Governments can create policies and legislation that promote and facilitate volunteerism. They can establish frameworks that protect volunteers’ rights, ensure their safety, and provide legal recognition for volunteer organizations. Governments can also develop regulations that encourage employers to offer paid time off for employees to engage in volunteer activities.

“Funding and Resources: Governments can allocate financial resources to support volunteer programs and initiatives. They can provide grants, subsidies, and funding opportunities to nonprofit organizations and community groups that rely on volunteers to deliver services. Governments can also invest in infrastructure, training, and capacity-building programs that enhance the effectiveness and impact of volunteer efforts.

“Coordination and Collaboration: Governments can act as facilitators and conveners, bringing together different stakeholders involved in volunteerism. They can establish platforms for collaboration between government agencies, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and community groups. By fostering synergy and cooperation, governments can create an enabling environment that maximizes the collective impact of volunteerism.

“Volunteer Infrastructure: Governments can develop and maintain volunteer infrastructure, such as volunteer centers or online portals, that connect potential volunteers with organizations in need. These platforms can provide information about volunteer opportunities, match volunteers with suitable positions, and streamline the volunteer recruitment process. Governments can also invest in technology and digital platforms to leverage the power of online volunteering.

” Recognition and Awards: Governments can recognize and appreciate the contributions of volunteers through various means. They can establish national or local volunteer recognition awards to honor individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to their communities through volunteering. This recognition not only acknowledges the efforts of volunteers but also inspires others to get involved.

” Research and Evaluation: Governments can support research and evaluation efforts to better understand the impact of volunteerism and identify areas where it can be further enhanced. They can commission studies, collect data, and analyze trends related to volunteerism. This information can inform policy decisions, program development, and resource allocation, ultimately strengthening the volunteer sector.

“Education and Awareness: Governments can promote education and awareness about volunteerism within communities and schools. They can incorporate volunteerism into educational curricula, emphasizing its importance and benefits. Governments can also launch public awareness campaigns to highlight the value of volunteerism and encourage individuals of all ages to get involved.

“By actively supporting volunteerism, governments can create an environment that encourages and empowers individuals to engage in community service. Their role is to provide infrastructure, resources, and policies that enable volunteerism to thrive and make a significant positive impact on societies.

“In as much as I say congratulations to us all, a lot needs to be done, especially in Nigeria. We need more volunteers, we need more engaging window from the federal government with the Nigerian volunteers, we need a sense of belonging too, we need a strong partnership and collaboration with all stakeholders across board.

“It wouldn’t be too demanding if we officially request for a statutory allocation from the federal government to the umbrella body of volunteers in Nigeria. In fact, this is the only way we can perform better. Other Countries do it, and off course USA is not exempted.

“I would want to say a big thanks to the UN Volunteer, the Federal government, and the Nigerian National Volunteering umbrella body under the leadership of Mr. Abraham Kwafhan for this appointment and I promise Nigerians today that I would put my best in place to make Nigeria proud”, Edoh added.

Dr. Raymond Edoh, while recapping his speech led the entire guests for a one minute silence for those that lost their lives in the war in Gaza-Israel, Ukraine-Russia as he chanted “No to War”.

He also dedicated his award to all Volunteers across the globe stating that volunteers don’t only volunteer rendering services but also volunteer their lives while others tend to save theirs.

Also speaking at the event, the Country Coordinator, United Nations Volunteers Programme, Nigeria, Veronica Obiuwevbi tasked volunteers in Nigeria to be patriotic while discharging their duties pointing out that country can serve better and be a better place with volunteers.

Troops neutralize 80 terrorists, arrests 304 in 2 weeks

By Emmanuel Daudu

Major General, Edward Buba, Director Defence Media Operations, has disclosed that troops has neutralized 80 terrorists, while 304 of them were arrested. Troops also arrested 152 perpetrators of oil theft and rescued 44 kidnapped hostages. In the SS, troops denied the oil theft of the estimated sum of Three Hundred and Forty Six Million One Hundred and Seventy-Five Thousand Five Hundred Naira (N347,173,500.00) only.






Edward made this known today during the biweekly 
Press conference held at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja  On Ongoing Military Operations By The Armed Forces Of Nigeria As At 7 December 2023.

According to him, “The ongoing military operations across the country are in  support of  our national security interest. The operations are   integral to the plan of focussing military pressure on the terrorist, insurgents and extremist in order to dismantle and destroy them or force them to submission.

“Accordingly, the military  remains focussed  to its core mission of creating a safe and secure environment for citizens by the  total destruction of threats perpetrating insecurity in the country.

“There is significant media attention owing to the mishap that occurred in Kaduna as a result of drone strike. The military stands with all those griefing as a result of the drone strike and express our heartfelt condolences as a force over the losses.  We pray for eternal peace for their souls. The incident is being investigated and the outcome of the investigation would go a long way in identifying areas of improvement to forestry future occurrences. 


” Furthermore, troops recovered 112 assorted weapons and 898 assorted ammunition. The breakdown are as follows: 2 GPMG, one HK21 gun, 14 AK47 rifles, 8 pump action guns, 4 locally fabricated rifles, 8 locally made pistols, 5 dane guns, 239 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 431 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 4 rounds of 9mm ammo, 52 live cartridges.

“Others are: 5 magazines loaded with 128 rounds of 7.62mm special, 6 vehicles, 28 mobile phones, 12 motorcycles, one laptop and sum of N782,790.00 amongst other items.

“Troops in the Niger Delta area destroyed 8 dugout pits, 11 boats, 46 storage tanks, 7 vehicles, 84 cooking ovens, 356 drums, one outboard engine, one pumping machine and 20 illegal refining sites.  Troops recovered 81,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 239,500 litres of illegally refined AGO, 5,000 litres of DPK and 10,500 litres of PMS.

“The armed forces is very concerned about the issues of civilian casualties in operations, a situation which it views as tragic and unwanted.The military is determined to deal with the situation properly and make improvement from our experiences.

“The military will continue to take great measures to prevent civilian casualties. Protecting civilians remains a vital part of  our operations in order to promote greater security for all Nigerians”, he added.

See reasons Defence Minister Visited Victims of  Kaduna Accidental Bombing

…says the unfortunate incident will not deter government from the fight against terrorism

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Muhammed Bello Matawalle MON, along with the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, led a high-level  delegation to visit and express Federal Governments’ condolences to the victims of the recent accidental bombing by the Nigerian Army  in Agabi Local Government, Kaduna State.

Henshaw Ogubike mnipr
Director ( Information), disclosed that the Minister while condemning the unfortunate incident said that despite what has happened,  the fight against insurgency and terrorism must continue.

“We are not going to relent in our fight against terrorism because these criminals must be defeated. We are going to continue fighting the criminals till we succeed against banditary and other criminalities in this country,” he said.

He said that Mr. President has directed that he lead a high level delegation to pay condolence visit to the good people and government of Kaduna State over the sad event as well as the concerned families of the victims both those that died and the ones receiving treatment at the hospital.

Accordingly, the Minister visited the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital in Kaduna where the injured victims were receiving treatment and the Government House to express Federal Governments’ condolence to the good people of  the State.

The Honourable Minister  had in his entourage top Military leaders, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Christopher G. Musa, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TA Lagbaja and others.

Matawalle assured the State Government that Federal Government would do everything possible to support the families of the victims and that government is going to set up a powerful panel of inquiry to ascertain the cause of the incident in order to prevent future occurrence.

Responding,  the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Mal Uba Sani, represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, at the Council Chamber, Government House, Kaduna, offered heartfelt sympathies to the affected families and pledged unwavering support to the families of victims.

She  said while they await the findings from the panel of inquiry,  the  support of Federal Government in taking care of the victims was needed saying that the State Government alone cannot meet their needs.

The State Government on its part has been able to maintain calm in the state in the face of the terrible incidence. “We have had engagement with Clerics of the state to seek their support in talking with the affected communities for their understanding in order to douse the heated tension caused by this sad event,” she said.

No Retired Military  Pensioner  Funds Given To Defence Minister -Betta Edu

By Emmanuel Daudu

The attention of the Honourable Minister For Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, has been drawn to a fake news item in the media and public spaces alleging  N25Billion  purportedly meant for the Reitred Military Pensioners from the Conditioner Cash Transfer Funds has been given to the Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar.

Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, (ANIPR),Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Minister, in a press release on 06/12/2023, he urged the general public  to disregard this report as it is not only fake but a deliberate, malicious and insipid attempt by mischief makers, disgruntled elements and enemies of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration to tarnish the image and integrity of the Honourable Minister.

For the records, at no time did the Honourable Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation give or contemplate giving funds meant for the Pensioners of the Retired Military personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces to Ministers or Ministries.

For the avoidance of doubt,  17,077 Veterans, and 264,560 Pensioners list were submitted to National Social Safety-Nets Coordinating Office
(NASSCO), in the third week of November and the process of in-person verification of the names submitted by the Nigerian Legion and the Pensioners group is still ongoing.

Similarly, the office responsible for the verification of the register under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation is doing a painstaking job, of working with the World Bank. All the captured retired veterans who meet the criteria and pensioners will be paid once the rigorous verification exercise is completed.

The Members of the public ,especially  the media are hereby informed by this press release that the ministry has not released or planning to release any money meant for the Renewed Hope Cash Transfer to any individual or group.

In line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, all funds upon confirmation of the beneficiaries’ details, are to be sent directly to them through their bank accounts and is verifiable.

The good intention of Mr President to expand the National Social Register and commence payment of the N25,000 for three months to accommodate the veterans of the Nigerian Armed Forces, which is a novel idea and the first of its kind in the history of Nigeria, should be appreciated by Nigerians and not allow themselves to be distracted or misinformed by naysayers.

Federal Public Service Games, 2023:  Transport/Marine & Blue Economy Ministry’s contingent charged to make Ministry proud

By Emmanuel Daudu

The sports contingent of the Ministry of Transportation/Marine & Blue Economy to the 2023 Federal Public Service Games (FEPSGA), have been urged to first and foremost, extol the virtues of sportsmanship, portray the Ministry in positive light and above all, win laurels for the Ministry.

According to a report by Desmond Adyo, Senior Information Officer, signed by Olujimi Oyetomi, Director, Press & Public Relations, the Director, Human Resource Management, Tetshoma Dafeta gave the charge today, Wednesday, 6th of December, 2023 while addressing the Ministry’s contingent just before they depart for Minna, Niger State which is the host city for this year’s games.

Speaking, she remarked that sporting should be everybody’s business, noting that it is in light of this that the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation/Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Magdalene Ajani has remained passionate about sports development by among other provisions, facilitated a functional gymnastics facility within the Ministry.

The Director of Human Resources further stated that the recent procurement of sporting kits for the staff should further motivate and invigorate the athletes who will be representing the Ministry at FEPSGA to win many medals to compliment the efforts of the Permanent Secretary.

The Manager of the Ministry of Transportation/Marine and Blue Economy Sports Club, Engr. Samson Ojon, while expressing appreciation to the Permanent Secretary for the brand-new sporting kits, stated that the sports community has never had it so good, adding that this should translate to medals at the games.
The sports manager further disclosed that the 169-strong contingent to the games should one-another’s keeper and also provide a moral boost to one another during the games.

Ojon also harped on monitoring, noting that the Ministry’s contingent to the games is expected to stay through the duration of the games, and anything short of that is not acceptable.