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Birthday Anniversary: Ayodele, High Prince Tukur,Global Online Media and others Congratulates VC CUICI, USA

****As Founder/Global Executive Chairman Of VisionAfric, Dr. Favour .O. Ayodele Prays For UNESCO Laureate.

Publishers of Shocknaija & Delta Uhuru Media Describes UNESCO Laureate As A Change-Maker

Former 2023 Presidential Aspirant under the platform of African Democratic Party (ADC) and Founder/ Global Executive Chairman, VisionAfric, Dr. Ayo .O. Ayodele, High Prince Muhammad Tukur Lawal Saleh PhD in view has Congratulated UNESCO Laureate and Vice Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as he today marks his birthday anniversary celebration in grand-style.

The media learnt this today being Sunday, July 7, 2024 in a press statement made available to some group of Journalists in Asaba Delta State capital by UNESCO Laureate’s Executive Assistance On Media, Publicity & Communication Matters, Comrade Sir Bieni Victor Emenike as Global Online Media: Publishers of Shocknaija & Delta Uhuru Media describes UNESCO Laureate as a change-maker.

In a release today by the global media group’s Director of Media, Ms Mercy Okonkwo wishes Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu happy, glorious and prosperous Birthday celebration as group urges him on more support, mentorship to Nigerian, African & global Youths development for a better society.

The management of Shocknaija & Delta Uhuru Media then prays for long life, God’s gracious grace, good health and prosperity to be upon UNESCO Laureate as he today marks his auspicious Birthday Anniversary in grand-style in Nigeria.

Ayodele, a former 2023 president aspirant & a seasoned development expert in a release today while hailing the VC of Crown University described the world acclaimed universities Research Professor as a man with good heart who has the habit of promoting others; a global ICON par excellence as Ayodele wishes him more glorious years ahead.

The statement by Dr. Favour .O. Ayodele reads in parts: “I join the world leaders to celebrate and wish His Excellency, UNESCO Laureate, World Acclaimed Distinguished Prof. Emeritus on merit, honored, and ranked Sir Bashiru Aremu Post-Doctoral E-Business, Grand PhD, Post Doc., D.Sc., Ph.D., B.Sc., B. Tech., IBD, FIBTMN,FATIICS, MACM, MCSTA, MSTAN, Snr. MIACSIT, FIASR, C.itp, MCPN, KOJ, KOGC, KOGHL FCIEMA, MNDKOJC, CEMA, FBCS, beautiful birthday”.

“I pray Almighty God continues to extend His gracious grace unto you. You are a man with a beautiful heart who seeks and promotes the good of others; a world Icon par excellence. More beautiful years ahead without stress but strength with a sound mind. Once again, happy Birthday Sir”! Dr. O Favour AYODELE, Former-Presidential Aspirant, 2023, Founder & Global Executive Chairman, VisionAfric stated.

United Against Fire Hazards: NIHA and Federal Fire Service Partner to Strengthen Fire Prevention and Response in Nigeria”

Abuja, Nigeria – In a bid to combat the recurring fire outbreaks plaguing Nigeria, the Nigerian Humanitarian Action (NIHA) has joined forces with the Federal Fire Service for the Nigeria Fire Prevention Week and Expo, as well as its International Flagship Programme in the United States.

Nigeria’s fire service received a significant allocation of 51.74 billion naira in 2023, yet recent fire incidents have raised concerns about the service’s effectiveness. The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to provide adequate funding and establish fire stations in all 774 Local Government Areas.

The NIHA-Federal Fire Service collaboration seeks to enhance fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices. This partnership is a crucial step towards mitigating fire incidents in Nigeria and ensuring the safety of citizens and properties.

Dr Kletsaint Akor, Chairman of NIHA and proponents council of Nigeria Fire Prevention week, the joint effort, NIHA and the Federal Fire will bolster fire safety management across the country, thereby reducing property damage and loss of life.

This partnership is a testament to the commitment of both organizations to ensuring the safety and well-being of Nigerians, He said

According to Dr. Akor, Despite significant allocations to the Federal Fire Service, the situation has shown little improvement in 2023, with Lagos State Fire Service reporting 1,642 fire incidents between January and June, resulting in 42 fatalities.

The crisis has continued into 2024, with several devastating fire incidents reported across the country. On January 17, a massive fire destroyed the timber section of the Panteka market in Kaduna, resulting in significant losses. Other incidents include a building fire at Tudun Wada Quarters in Kano, which caused seven casualties due to smoke inhalation, and a fire at Horo Eastern by-pass depot, resulting in one fatality.

The alarming rate of fire incidents in Nigeria, particularly during the dry season from November to March, has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the Federal Fire Service, despite receiving 51.74 billion naira in 2023. The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to fund the Federal Fire Service adequately and establish fire stations in all 774 Local Government Areas.

The partnership will also strengthen fire safety measures, improve response strategies, and promote international best practices. This collaboration is crucial in mitigating fire incidents in Nigeria and ensuring the safety of citizens and properties.

Nigeria SOE partners UK/German Group, set to build 300,000 Homes across Nigeria

The housing initiative of the Federal Government Social Intervention Program has received a huge support from the United Kingdom and Germany as it recently birthed a collaboration to provide affordable housing by the duo of Family Homes Funds Limited in Nigeria and the Argisol Group operated in Germany and United Kingdom.

The agreement is to promote sustainable and energy-efficient homes that reduce GHGE . The multinational agreement is expected to provide 30,000 Homes over 5 years across Nigeriam. The agreement will contribute to bridging the housing gap in Nigeria.

The deal was sealed in Abuja recently as an MOU with the Family Homes Funds Limited was signed to broadly outline the principal terms and conditions under which the two corporations would collaborate under an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance (EPC+F) partnership framework to build 30,000 units of mix-income affordable housing for the benefit of Nigerians across the country utilizing the ARGISOL Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) Buildings Systems over a period of five (5) years.

Unlike many of its competitors, Argisol Building Systems makes it possible to construct energy-efficient and sustainable buildings that significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Backed by the power of the German Argisol Technology – the World’s Leading Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF) building system – Argisol has supported and promoted sustainable building practices with a focus on energy efficiency and GHG emission reduction since 1982, in conformity with UNEP’s Sustainable Buildings and Climate Initiative (SBCI) and the IFC’s Green Buildings Market Transformation Program (GBMTP).

Registered in 2017 and commencing operations in 2018, Family Homes Funds is Sub-Sahara Africa’s largest housing fund focused on providing affordable homes for Nigerians on low income. It is a social housing initiative promoted by the Federal Government of Nigeria as part of its Social Intervention Programme with initial shareholding by the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA).

Homes to be built will be designed to appeal to a broad range of homeowners across all income groups, including, public servants and those employed in the private sector as well as self-employed entrepreneurs.

“We are thrilled to introduce Argisol Homes to the Nigerian Market,” said the company’s UK Chairman, Joseph Ejim. “We believe that our Homes offer a much more energy efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional hollow concrete block or brick buildings as the cost saving achieved during construction continues throughout the lifespan of the building in the continuous savings from energy costs.”

According to Mr Giles Catchpole, Executive Director, Argisol UK, “Africa is due for the right modern method of construction that would create homes that are stronger than conventional builds, Fire resistant, Roth and mold proof, a system that cuts down on reinforcement by up to 60% and allows for construction to be done in one-third of the time it takes to build with traditional methods, Argisol is that and much morel”

Argisol will now build its first Nigerian Factory capable of producing its building systems for up to 15,000 homes a year on its 2-hectare plot of land at the Abuja Technology Village.

The company which boasts of the leading ICF technology in the world today has an exclusivity pact with Family Homes funds for the Nigerian Market. The company is however present in Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa where it is at various stages of deployment at the moment.

“We’re excited about the potential for building our higher quality, Energy efficient homes across Nigeria and becoming a major player in the Nigerian Housing market,” added Dr.Aliyu Ibrahim a Director of Argisol Building Systems ATV FZE the Nigerian subsidiary of the Argisol Group. “Our goal is to provide Home buyers with homes that deliver the comfort, spacious living, and safety they need to thrive in their daily pursuits”

The Argisol launch in the Nigerian Market is expected to generate significant interest among Builders, Real estate developers Home buyers, and other industry insiders alike, as the companies look to take on the challenge of helping bridge Nigeria’s housing Gap currently estimated at over 20 Million Homes.

Security Monitor

Ministry of Youth to Collaborate with Tony Elumelu Foundation to Boost Skills and Foster Entrepreneurship

By Maryam Aminu

In a significant move to enhance skill acquisition and promote entrepreneurship among young Nigerians, the Ministry of Youth Development has announced a collaboration with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF).

This announcement was made by the Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, during a meeting with TEF’s management team led by CEO Ms. Somachi Chris-Asoluka at the Foundation’s office in Lagos.

Mr. Olawande highlighted that the collaboration would include various training programs, mentorship initiatives, and access to critical resources designed to empower young people to become successful entrepreneurs and professionals.

Emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships, the Minister noted that collaborative efforts yield better and faster results.

“Just yesterday at the Lagos State Employment Summit, I emphasized the need for deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors. Today, I am here to put those words into action by discussing how we can partner to improve the prospects of young people,” said Olawande.

He praised the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s impact over the years in creating jobs and reducing poverty through their entrepreneurship programs, which have enabled many young Nigerians and Africans to become employers.

Ms. Chris-Asoluka responded positively, expressing her excitement about the Ministry’s initiatives aimed at addressing the needs of grassroots youth.

She applauded the Minister’s efforts to engage with young people and emphasized the importance of listening to their needs and preferences to provide effective support.

“I am genuinely impressed by your dedicated efforts to engage with young people. Providing them with the opportunity to express their needs and preferences is essential in ensuring effective support,” Ms. Chris-Asoluka stated.

The discussion also covered potential areas of collaboration, with Ms. Chris-Asoluka pledging TEF’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) project and the Corpreneur Support Initiative of the Youth Ministry.

She highlighted that this commitment reflects a shared vision to empower and uplift the youth through collaborative efforts.

The partnership between the Ministry of Youth Development and the Tony Elumelu Foundation marks a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship and skill development among Nigeria’s youth, promising a brighter future for the country’s next generation of leaders.

GMOs Are Safe, Nigeria’s Agricultural Research System Insists

…Scientific Coalition Rebuts Anti-GMO Campaigns, Reaffirms Safety of Genetically Modified Crops

Abuja – In a unified stance, Nigeria’s top agricultural research bodies have declared genetically modified organisms (GMOs) safe, countering a recent wave of anti-GMO campaigns. The Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), backed by key agencies like the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA) and the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA), asserts that GMOs pose no harm to humans, animals, or the environment.

The coalition, including the National Agricultural Seed Council, National Agricultural Quarantine Service, and Sheda Science and Technology Complex, emphasized that the safety and benefits of genetically modified crops are well-established. This collective position was announced in response to escalating media campaigns against GM technology in Nigeria, which the group criticized for attempting to undermine local advancements and expertise.

Leading the charge, ARCN Executive Secretary Prof. Garuba Sharubutu highlighted the council’s mandate to advise the Federal Government on agricultural research and biotechnology applications. “Our research institutes focus on genetic improvements of staple and cash crops, livestock, and fisheries,” Sharubutu stated. “Biotechnology offers novel ways to enhance crop resilience and productivity, crucial for food security amidst climate challenges.”

Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, Director General of NABRDA, addressed the controversy sparked by the introduction of Tela Maize. He acknowledged the public’s fear and skepticism fueled by misinformation. “Our goal is to dispel myths and educate the nation on the proven safety and advantages of GMOs,” Mustapha explained, citing global success stories from the USA, Europe, Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa.

Advocating for the transformative potential of GMOs, Mustapha emphasized their role in addressing food scarcity, malnutrition, and environmental sustainability. “Through genetic engineering, Nigerian scientists have developed pest-resistant, disease-tolerant, and climate-resilient crops like Bt Cowpea, Bt Cotton, and Tela Maize,” he said. These innovations promise a secure food supply for future generations.

Dr. Agnes Yemisi Asagbra, Director General of NBMA, reiterated the agency’s commitment to rigorous GMO regulation. “NBMA enforces strict standards and conducts thorough risk assessments to ensure the safety of GMOs in Nigeria,” she noted. This process involves evaluating potential health and environmental risks, including allergenicity and toxicity, with input from scientific experts.

Public engagement is a cornerstone of NBMA’s approach. “We actively involve stakeholders in biosafety discussions, holding consultations and workshops to address concerns transparently,” Asagbra said. This dialogue helps dispel misconceptions and fosters informed public opinion on GMO safety.

Dr. Kahild Ishiak, Acting Director General of the National Agricultural Seeds Council, debunked myths about GMO seed viability. “Seeds from Nigerian-bred GM materials can be replanted, similar to conventional seeds,” he clarified. However, for optimal yields, farmers are advised to purchase new seeds annually.

Architect Kabiru Ibrahim, President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), supported GMOs from a practical standpoint. “GMOs have improved farmers’ earnings and productivity,” he said. “The allegations made by anti-GMO activists are unfounded.”

This robust defense of GMOs from Nigeria’s leading agricultural institutions underscores a commitment to leveraging biotechnology for sustainable agricultural development. As the debate continues, the coalition’s message is clear: embracing GMOs is vital for Nigeria’s food security and economic prosperity.

Minister of State for Youth Development Advocates for Job Creation Using Local Resources

By Maryam Aminu

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has emphasized the potential of local resources in job creation.

Olawande made the call during his address at the third Lagos State Employment Summit held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.

The Minister urged government officials, community leaders, and business owners to collaborate in harnessing local community resources to create meaningful employment opportunities.

He highlighted the abundant natural, cultural, and human resources available across Nigeria’s local communities, advocating for strategic utilization to drive economic growth.

“There is no way the government alone can achieve the difficult task of creating employment for our increasing youth population. Similarly, the private sector cannot do it alone either. Therefore, there is a need for deeper and deliberate collaboration to harmonize resources and human capital to deliver the much-needed jobs,” Olawande stated.

The Minister underscored the comparative advantages present in each local government area, suggesting that targeted collaboration among government agencies, private sector organizations, and educational institutions is essential for maximizing these local strengths.

The summit brought together key stakeholders to explore sustainable economic growth strategies

Participants at the summit commended Olawande’s initiatives, particularly his “one youth, two skills” program, which aims to re-skill the youth for the evolving job market.

Organized by the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), the event saw attendance from notable dignitaries, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, and GTB Founder Fola Adeola.

The summit served as a platform for discussing public-private collaboration strategies to enhance job creation.

Ministry of Youth Development Announces Application Commencement for NYIF

By Maryam Aminu

In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, has revealed that the restructured Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) will start accepting applications this month.

This initiative aims to provide young entrepreneurs with financial support for their innovative ideas.

The announcement was made during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch B Stream I corps members at the NYSC orientation camp in Paiko, Niger State.

Dr. Ibrahim in a statement by the Director Press and Public Ralations emphasized that the NYIF would streamline the application process to facilitate young entrepreneurs in transforming their business visions into reality, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.

Recalling a groundbreaking initiative announced in May 2024, Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering at least 5,000 NYSC members with up to ten million naira each for entrepreneurial ventures upon completing their service.

She reiterated that this move is expected to boost economic growth and sustainability.

“We are also launching the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP) this month,” Dr. Ibrahim added. “This program aims to train over one million young Nigerians across various fields such as technology and agriculture. The NYSP offers a remarkable opportunity to enhance employability and prepare for successful careers, aligning with the evolving demands of the job market.”

The Minister encouraged corps members to seize these opportunities, noting the rapid changes in the world and the importance of the skills they acquire now for their future success.

She advised them to leverage the NYIF for their business ideas and actively participate in the NYSP to develop a well-rounded skill set during their NYSC year.

In his address, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State announced that his administration would offer automatic employment to corps members in the medical and health fields who are willing to work in the state, aiming to improve healthcare delivery services.

Governor Bago also disclosed that the state government has allocated five billion naira for constructing a permanent orientation camp for the National Youth Service Corps in Niger State.

Joe Ghartey lauded on dignity and integrity

African Countries

Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief of Essikado, has disclosed that Hon Joe Ghartey, the Member of Parliament for Essikado Ketan has displayed self-discipline since inception into public responsibility

He noted that since Hon Joe Ghartey entered public life in 2005, he has conducted himself with dignity and integrity. Nana Kobina Nketsia said this when Hon Joe Ghartey led a group to his residency to present support to the victims of the recent Ngersia fire outbreak. Nana Nketsia said it was not all those who carried the title ‘Honourable’ who deserved the title. He said some people so abused their public office that they did not deserve the title honourable.

He continued that such people did not only bring themselves to shame, but also the people who they represent, their ancestors and generations yet to be borne.

He said he knew Hon Joe Ghartey’s ancestors and was not surprised about his character. Nana Kobina Nkestia said the new position Hon Joe Ghartey had been given as Board Chair of Ghana Revenue Authority was a difficult one but he prayed that once again Hon Ghartey will conduct himself with integrity as he had done as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, as Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament and as Minister for Railways Development. Nana Nketsia said this when Hon Joe Ghartey led GRA to support the victims of the fire incident.

(Newsdotafrica)

Joe Ghartey appointed GRA Board Chair

African Countries

Experienced lawyer and Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan Constituency, Hon. Joe Ghartey, has been sworn in as the Chair of the Governing Board of the Ghana Revenue Authority, GRA.

As the Chair of the Governing Board, Hon. Joe Ghartey will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction to the GRA. He will work closely with the management team and staff of the GRA to ensure effective tax administration and revenue collection in Ghana.

Hon. Joe Ghartey brings a wealth of experience to this role. He has served as a lawyer for over 30 years and has extensive knowledge in corporate and commercial law. He has also served as the Minister for Railways Development and as the Attorney General and Minister for Justice in Ghana.

In addition to his legal expertise, Hon. Joe Ghartey has a strong background in public service. He has been the Member of Parliament for the Essikado-Ketan Constituency since 2004 and has held various leadership positions in Parliament.

His appointment as the Chair of the GRA is expected to strengthen the authority’s governance structure and contribute to the government’s efforts in revenue mobilization for national development.

Hon. Joe Ghartey’s vast experience in law, public service, and leadership will undoubtedly be valuable in his new role as the Chair of the Governing Board of the GRA. His appointment reflects the government’s commitment to appointing competent individuals to key positions to enhance revenue collection and promote good governance in Ghana.

His oath of office was administered by the Minister of Finance, Hon. Mohammed Amin Anta in Accra on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.

Hon. Ghartey, a legal luminary, joins GRA after serving Ghana in various capacities over the years. He has served the country as Attorney General Minister of Justice under former President John Agyekum Kufuor. He served as Minister of Railways Development during the first term of President Akufo-Addo from 2017 till 2021. Hon. Ghartey, a respected law lecturer is a former Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament and currently the longest serving Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan Constituency in the Western Region.

The new GRA Board Chair is a devoted Christian and married to one of Ghana’s finest female lawyers, Madam Efua Ghartey.

Commenting on his appointment, Hon. Ghartey expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve my country, “and I thank the President, H. E Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo for this nomination.”

“Following the swearing-in, our maiden Board meeting was held at the GRA Headquarters in Accra. I am very encouraged from the interaction with the Director General and the Commissioners and their Deputies. The Board is raring to go, and we are confident God will be our guide,” he said.

Newsdotafrica

RMAFC Seeks Greater Collaboration with EFCC to Recover Lost Revenues

By Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammad Bello Shehu, has called for enhanced cooperation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to address revenue leakages and ensure the recovery of unremitted government funds.

Shehu, during a courtesy visit to EFCC Chairman emphasized the need for collaboration in enforcement, intelligence gathering, and data sharing related to government revenue.

“We are calling on EFCC for more collaboration, not only in the area of enforcement but also intelligence gathering and data sharing with respect to government revenue from any source,” Shehu stated.

Shehu highlighted the importance of the partnership, noting its impact on previous recovery exercises.

RMAFC Boss also requested EFCC’s support in capacity building for RMAFC staff, particularly in forensic investigation.

The Chairman criticized the practice of Revenue Generating Agencies, or Government Owned Enterprises, spending generated revenue and remitting the balance to the Consolidated Revenue Fund .

Group photograph of delegates lead by the Chairman RMAFC and their host EFCC

He argued that this practice contradicts the constitutional mandate requiring all revenues to be paid into the Federation Account.

Reflecting on past collaborations, Shehu recounted a successful joint effort in 2013 that recovered N74 billion in unremitted and under-remitted revenues from banks.

He also noted a more recent effort from 2021, which, in partnership with EFCC, recovered over N216 billion from the public and oil sectors.

In response, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede underscored the need for transparency and accountability in government revenue management.

He called for a review of the revenue generation system to identify and close loopholes.

“There are things we have been able to do together within the scopes of our mandate and your mandate as well,” Olukoyede said.

“Transparency and accountability should be embedded in our public life as a nation. That’s the only way we can move forward.”

Olukoyede also stressed the importance of systemic changes to prevent corruption and inefficiencies, advocating for a focus on improving the systems that govern revenue generation and appropriation.

He urged support for the President’s efforts to reposition the country, emphasizing the role of both agencies in achieving this goal.

Both Chairmen agreed to enhance collaboration to ensure proper management of government revenue and promote accountability in the conduct of government business

By Maryam Aminu

Shehu, during a courtesy visit to EFCC Chairman emphasized the need for collaboration in enforcement, intelligence gathering, and data sharing related to government revenue.

Shehu highlighted the importance of the partnership, noting its impact on previous recovery exercises.

RMAFC Boss also requested EFCC’s support in capacity building for RMAFC staff, particularly in forensic investigation.

The Chairman criticized the practice of Revenue Generating Agencies, or Government Owned Enterprises (GOE), spending generated revenue and remitting the balance to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).