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“Tinubu’s Corn-undrum: GMOs, Governance, and the Neglected Path of Local Agriculture”- by Dr. Iyke Ezeugo

Poverty is not merely a mental state but a harsh reality, especially when compounded by food shortages and hunger. The weaponization of poverty and hunger has long been a principle applied by the crude elite either purposefully or stumbled upon serendipitously. When poverty is intertwined with food shortages and hunger, the stark reality becomes even more impactful; reason and contemplation take a backseat as people are consumed by immediate survival instincts. This grim scenario mirrors the plight of the majority of Nigerian masses today.

Fortunately, the government is quick to propose solutions, whether comprehensive, safe, or not. President Bola Tinubu’s recent decision to suspend taxes on maize, wheat, and brown rice imports is his latest response to Nigeria’s economic hardships, food shortages, and hunger. While it has brought hope to empty stomachs on the brink of despair, it has also stirred apprehension among the more reasoned public. They are concerned about the potential health risks of GMOs, which this policy shift might inadvertently promote in the absence of stringent import and consumption regulations.

Supporters of the policy applaud its immediate relief for millions facing food shortages, arguing it’s a pragmatic response to an urgent crisis. However, critics argue that it’s a Trojan horse for GMOs and question why Nigeria, with its vast fertile lands and favorable weather conditions, is not investing more in local agriculture to achieve self-sufficiency.

The debate raises crucial questions:

1. Sustainability:How long will this food import policy be sustained?

2. Long-term Impact: What will be the policy’s impact on the nation’s economy and health?

3. Local Agriculture: Why not invest more in bolstering local agriculture?

4. Resource Availability: Does Nigeria truly lack the resources to grow its own food?

5. Self-sufficiency: Shouldn’t Nigeria pursue a shift towards self-sufficiency instead of relying on imports?

Revitalizing local agriculture could provide a sustainable solution to the nation’s food security challenges, offering economic empowerment and revitalizing rural communities. However, as imported grains flood in, Nigeria risks missing opportunities to harness its agricultural potential. This choice between short-term expediency and long-term sustainability is pivotal, especially in a country where politics and sustenance intersect.

In Tinubu’s Corn-undrum, we must delve deep into these complexities, examining the decision-making processes that shape national policies and the potential consequences of neglecting Nigeria’s agricultural potential. As the nation faces this critical juncture, the question remains: will we opt for imported solutions or cultivate our own path to prosperity?

For further discussion on this parody, contact Dr. Iyke Ezeugo at iykye@yahoo.com.

Ongoing: AAAU holds inaugural Council meeting

Following the recent inauguration of governing councils for tertiary institutions by the Federal Government of Nigeria at the NUC auditorium, the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, has held its first council meeting.

According to the Public Relations Officer, Sa’adatu Usman in a press release she signed on Monday disclosed that last week, on the 5th of June, 2024, the university warmly received the newly appointed Chairman and Members of its governing council.

According to her, a brief introduction session was carried out by all staff members of the university and the newly inaugurated governing council.

Afterward, The Registrar, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi provided a detailed overview of the university, carrying the governing through its establishment, growth, achievements as well as challenges.

During the meeting, the council alongside the Registrar had salient discussions at length on key issues for the progress of the university

The governing council were then taken on a tour to inspect the university’s state-of-the-art facilities which they share with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

Finally, the governing council visited the university’s permanent site along Bill Clinton Drive, Airport Road, to observe ongoing development activities.

NiMet, Bingham University set to partner in Areas of Interest To Strengthen Early Warnings

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike, has assured that the agency will partner Bingham University in the establishment of a weather station and in other areas to strengthen early warnings.

Prof. Anosike gave the assurance when the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Haruna Kuje Ayuba, paid him a courtesy visit in his office on Wednesday, 3rd July, 2024.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Anosike said; “I am glad that Prof. Ayuba has vast knowledge of the contributions of NiMet towards nation building. This is as a result of diligent research. Our work is the basic tool for the protection of lives and property.

Continuing, Professor Anosike encouraged Bingham University to engage with its wider community, in order to create a platform which the proposed partnership with NiMet can leverage on for community protection and positive impact.

“I wish to assure Bingham University and the Vice Chancellor of our readiness to partner the university. The partnership terms will be spelt out in a memorandum of understanding (MoU). It is also important to emphasize the importance of weather station maintenance, data generation and data transmission”, Professor Anosike concluded.

Responding, Prof. Ayuba said; “Our visit is to congratulate Professor Anosike on his appointment last December as the DG/CEO of NiMet, and as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
We are also seeking partnership with NiMet in building a weather observation station, students training, staff exchanges, internships among others”.

Concluding, Prof. Ayuba acknowledged with appreciation the contribution of Prof. Anosike towards the sustainable development of the country even before his appointment as the DG/CEO of NiMet, having served the nation in other capacities.

NBTE To Inspect WMO-NiMet Regional Training Centre ahead ND programmes Accreditation

By Emmanuel Daudu

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) will undertake an inspection visit of the facilities at the Regional Training Centre (RTC) of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) at Oshodi-Lagos.

This followed an application for accreditation of National Diploma courses offered at the Centre by NiMet.

According to the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, “The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) is saddled with the responsibility of not only providing weather information, but also training manpower in the fields of Meteorology and Climate Sciences. The World Meteorological OrganisationRegional Training Centre (WMO RTC) Oshodi, Lagos established in 1957, is responsible for the Meteorological Manpower Training for NiMet. Over the years, the WMO RTC,has been running and issuing only certificates courses because it has no national monitoring and accrediting body. This is not good enough”.

Continuing, Professor Anosike said; “To further fortify and expand the training horizon of the WMO RTC, we approached the Management of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Kaduna, to express interest in running Diploma Programmes in; (1) ND Meteorology and (2) ND Climate Change Science. Gladly, NBTE has approved the advisory/resources inspection visit to the RTC Oshodi as a precursor to the running of the ND programmes at the RTC, Oshodi, Lagos”.

UNESCO Laureate Tasks Post-graduate Students of Kaduna State University On Creativity, Innovation & Research

UNESCO Laureate & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), United States of America, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has tasked the Post-graduate Students under his watch at Kaduna State University on creativity, innovation and research as he urged the prospective students to key into the diverse array of the KASU University programs.

The media learnt this today being on Sunday June 7, 2024 from Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, who is also visiting lecturer in Kaduna State University in a press release personally signed by him which was made available to some group of Journalists in Kaduna, Kaduna State capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as UNESCO Laureate Commended the massive attendance of his students.

Kaduna State University (KASU) stands as a premier state-owned institution situated in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Founded in 2004. KASU provides a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across sciences, social sciences, arts, education, and management sciences. With a commitment to excellence.

UNESCO Laureate in the release has tasked his Post-graduate Students in KASU to create innovative and promote ground breaking research in the institution in their areas of specialization, while he stated that, “he is highly impressed with crop of students- attendance & performances.

He stated further that, KASU endeavors to deliver superior education, foster innovation through research, and contribute significantly to the state and national development. That KASU boasts numerous faculties, departments, and institutes specializing in various academic domains.

UNESCO Laureate’s statement reads in parts: “KASU is esteemed as a frontrunner among Nigerian universities. By emphasizing quality education, research, and innovation, KASU serves as a cornerstone in shaping future leaders and advancing knowledge”.

” Its strategic location in Kaduna State positions it as a hub for intellectual growth and societal progress. Recognized for its academic prowess and dedication to scholarly pursuits, KASU stands as a beacon of learning and innovation in Nigeria and beyond”.

“Admission to a postgraduate degree programme in Nigeria requires a bachelor’s degree with at least a Second Class Lower Division (not less than 2.75/5). Admission to Doctoral programmes requires an Academic master’s degree with a minimum weighted average of 60% (B average or 4.00/5). In addition to this, applicants may be subjected to written and oral examinations depending on the school”.

“Most universities with high numbers of applicants have more stringent admission processes. Postgraduate degrees in Nigeria include M.A., M.Sc., M.Ed., M.Eng., LL.M, M.Arch., M.Agric., M.Phil., PhD. The master’s degree typically take 18–36 months with students undertaking coursework and presenting seminars and a dissertation”.

“The doctoral degree is for a minimum of 36 months and may involve coursework alongside the presentation of seminars and a research thesis. Award of postgraduate degrees requires a defence of the completed research before a panel of examiners comprising external and internal examiners, Head of Department, Department Postgraduate Coordinator,Representative(s) of Faculty and Postgraduate School, and any other member of staff with a PhD in the department/faculty”.

“I must Commend the massive attendance and performances of our Post Graduate Students at Kaduna State University. To mention but a few of them are:
Hajara Ibrahim
Fatima Madawaki
Hauwa Abbas
Zainab M Sani
Suzanah Douglas Zaki
Samuel Moses
Bossah Kazah
Buhari Umar Ali
Samuel Ogbe Michael
Yunana Musa
Jauro Abdullahi Jibrin
Muhammad Imam Abubakar
Adamu Tasiu
Dahiru Yahaya
Rukayya Yakubu
Donatus Ifeyinwa Happiness
Musa Ibrahim
Saadatu Abubakar Bawa”.

“Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate & HRH Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis in Singapore is The VC, CUICI, USA, a Fellow of Royal Society For Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA), United Kingdom (UK). He is a Life Fellow & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), USA. He is the World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and Editorial Board Member, Cambridge Publishing, United Kingdom”.

“He is known as World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor of Computer Science, Information Communication Technology in different global and Nigerian Universities such as Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Imo State University, Imo State, Kaduna State University, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State”.

“UNESCO Laureate is the Pioneer Member Board of Trustees of Minaret International University, Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria (Proposed) to mention but a few. And other Global Universities such as West Coast University of Science, Technology & Arts, Bharat University, India”.

“He is also a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor at Pradesh, Mandsaur, Mother Theresa Women University, India, World Congress of Arts, Sciences & Communication, as had served as Deputy Director-General for Africa And Research Professor at International Biographical Centre. Prof Aremu is cited in the World recognized publications by Famous Marquis Who’s is Who in the World”.

AAAU Gets Governing Council

By Emmanuel Daudu

The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja has yet achieved a significant milestone as the Federal Government has established its inaugural governing council.

This council, mandated for all tertiary institutions, will oversee crucial decisions including budget allocation, employment matters, and strategic university policies.

The official inauguration of AAAU’s governing council took place on July 4th, 2024, at the National Universities Commission (NUC) auditorium.

The inaugural event, was attended by the Registrar, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Director Academic Planning, Prof. Yahaya Zayyana Ibrahim, Dean School of Postgraduate Studies, Dr. Eniola Olaniyan Ajanni and Principal Accountant Mr Rasheed Lamidi Akanni.

During the event, key and thought-provoking presentations were made to enlighten the council’s pivotal role in areas such as funding, wages and procurement, setting the course for AAAU’s future development.

The occasion was marked by a significant turnout, with well-wishers gathering to celebrate and extend congratulations to the appointed council members.

Leading the AAAU governing council is Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji CFR as Chairman, Alhaji Goni who is a former Head of Service of the Federation and distinguished Members including Engr Ahmed Zakari Nguruji, Anulika Emediagwu, Othman Ali Jalaba, and Barr. Gaius Achana Yaro.

The Registrar, in his statement, disclosed that the entirety of AAAU looks forward to cordial working relation with its new governing council, pledging unwavering support for the university’s continued growth and success.

Tinubu hails the Nigerian Army as most Patriotic, selfless

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has praised the Nigerian Army as one of the most patriotic and selfless elements of the nation, noting that its personnel have made immense sacrifices to ensure the country’s peace and security.

According to a press release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director ( Information and Public Relations) on monday, he disclosed that Mr. President who was represented by the Honourble Minister of Defence, H E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni stated this during the grand finale of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 at the Maxwell Khobe Cantonment Jos , Plateau State.

Mr. President commended the Army’s efforts in addressing the nation’s security challenges, stating that the institution has risen to the challenge to keep Nigeria safe.

“We live in a complex and ever-changing world and our Army must continue to evolve to meet the new challenges of the changing world. I was toId that you spent a part of the Army Day Celebration holding lectures and brainstorming sessions on the evolving complex and uncertain security situations. It is good and proper that you did that so that you can be better prepared for the evolving challenges,” he said.

The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a well-equipped and professional army, announcing approved measures to enhance the Army’s combat efficiency, including the payment of Group Life Assurance for fallen soldiers and the procurement of attack helicopters and combat enablers.

He emphasized the need for innovation, proactivity, and jointness among security agencies to address the evolving security landscape.

“I encourage you to continue to work closely with your sister services, other security agencies as well as your fellow countrymen and women. There is no doubt that you represent the pride of the nation; an institution with history;an institution that has never failed Nigeria,” he stated.

The President said he felt proud that judging from the well organized and excellent parade and the display made at the Army Day Celebration, he was fully convinced that the Nigerian Military had justified the trust reposed on it to defend the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

The event was attended by top government officials and military dignitaries, including the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and other top Government functionaries.

Nigerian Armed Forces Reports Significant Progress in Ongoing Military Operations

Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have made substantial gains in their ongoing military operations across various regions, according to the latest report by Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.

Buba disclosed that over 750 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and their family members surrendered, while troops arrested 13 suspected collaborators and gunrunners.

He noted that the Troops neutralised 64 terrorists and recovered an extensive cache of weapons and ammunition, including 4 PKT guns and 19 AK-47 rifles.

He noted that multiple ambushes and offensive operations resulted in the rescue of 29 kidnapped hostages and the discovery and neutralization of several IEDs.

In Operation Safe Haven (North Central), he disclosed that Troops neutralised 13 insurgents and arrested 51 violent extremists, including armed robbers and cultists.

While disclosing that 30 kidnapped hostages were successfully rescued in various operations, The Armed Forces added they recovered items including one AK-47 rifle, 4 fabricated rifles, and 100 rounds of ammunition.

It was further disclosed that Troops conducted arrest operations, offensive maneuver and anti-kidnapping efforts, neutralising 12 terrorists and rescuing 12 kidnapped hostages.

Also, 13 violent extremists were arrested, with notable recoveries of weapons including one AK-47 rifle and 11 rounds of ammunition.

FG Inaugurates National Hydrographic Governing Council

By Emmanuel Daudu

In a significant advancement for Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, has inaugurated the Governing Council of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA).

This move is seen as a major milestone aimed at enhancing the country’s hydrographic capabilities and ensuring the efficient management of its waterways.

In a press release signed on July 4, 2024, by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe, Director of Information and Public Relations, it was outlined that the NHA is tasked with hydrographic surveying and nautical charting. This provides critical data for maritime navigation, national defence, and a variety of marine activities.

The establishment of the Governing Council is a key initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, aiming to improve the management and regulation of Nigeria’s water resources.

Dr. Matawalle highlighted the importance of the Council, which comprises key stakeholders from various ministries and agencies.

The Council will provide strategic oversight and ensure that Nigeria’s hydrographic activities align with global best practices, supporting the nation’s economic, social, and environmental development goals.

“This alignment is crucial for supporting the country’s economic, social, and environmental development goals,” stated Dr. Matawalle. “Today’s inauguration demonstrates our commitment to fostering knowledge, expertise, and resources to address the complex challenges facing our nation’s water sector and unlock its vast potential.”

The Council has already approved several key initiatives, including acquiring a temporary headquarters, employing civilian staff, and nominating three ex-officio members, subject to presidential approval.

Dr. Matawalle further emphasized that the new board’s inauguration marks a significant step toward advancing Nigeria’s hydrographic and maritime capabilities and underscores the government’s commitment to effectively managing the nation’s hydrographic resources.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni, echoed the Minister’s sentiments.

“The establishment of this Council is a pivotal step towards enhancing our national hydrographic infrastructure and ensuring sustainable management of our marine resources,” he said.

The Governing Council is chaired by the Minister of State for Defence and includes the Ministers of Transportation, Justice, and Finance, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, Surveyor General of the Federation, three ex-officio members, and the Hydrographer of the Federation, who serves as the Secretary of the board.

This newly formed Council is expected to drive significant improvements in Nigeria’s hydrographic sector, reflecting the nation’s ongoing efforts to optimize its marine and waterway resources.

TOPPY DE AUTOS Boss Opeyemi to be Decorated as CONYSSA Ambassador

The CEO/Director of Toppy De Autos, Bello Oluwasina Opeyemi has been recognized and listed for an award by the Coalition of Nigeria Youth on Security and Safety Affairs(CONYSSA), as an Icon of Security Ambassador 2024. This award is to be physically presented to him in the CONYSSA forthcoming MULTI-STAKEHOLDERS SUMMIT ON CRIME REDUCTION AND PREVENTION, scheduled to take place in Lagos State.

Opeyemi’s recognition for this prestigious award is due to his relentless security advocacies and participation in ensuring the safety and security of all within his reach and community.

Disclosing this to the media on Monday in Abuja, the Director General, Amb. Mario Ade Emmanuel stated that Bello Oluwasina Opeyemi’s nomination for the prestigious award is meritorious, going by his landmark engagement in security-related projects, programs and initiatives to ensure a peaceful coexistence on land.

Opeyemi, who is also a business entrepreneur, is the CEO/Director of Toppy. He has partnered with various Security Organizations and pioneered strategic measures taken to curb insecurities in his community.

Through his humanitarian services engaged a lot of youths by supporting them in their careers to be successful. Paid students school and scholarship to some few others.

Nigeria’s struggle with soaring insecurities is becoming alarming, hence, to address these complex and sensitive issues as well as profer a lasting solution is a driving point for this great awardee.

Individuals like Opeyemi continue to be significant contributors in tackling these challenges head-on to ensure a safe and secure society for all through such activities as checking out on young ones who need help.

As a strong advocate of security, Opeyemi believes that the cumulative effects of insecurity if not properly addressed, will not only affect the victims but will have devastating consequences on every citizen and the society at large. These guiding principles have always geared Opeyemi’s selfless services in improving security consciousness and promoting lasting peace and a serene society for all.