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.”
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.
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.
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.
…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.
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.
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.
………. Minister Warns The Public Against Scammers As Beneficiaries Thanks President Tinubu, Says Grant Brings Joy, Financial Relief To Them at Yuletide
As part of President Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda,over ten thousand vulnerable persons have recieved their credit alert of twenty thousand Naira grants in Kogi state.
Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair (ANIPR), Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Minister, FMHAPA, in a press release signed on 05/12/2023, disclosed that Nigeria’s Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu who performed the flag-off of the exercise in Lokoja, the Kogi State capital,saying President Tinubu Government is all about reaching out to the poorest of the poor and the vulnerable in the society.
The Minister explained that the social intervention programmes are designed to lift over 50 million Nigerians Out of poverty in 42 Months.
Dr Edu noted that the premium intrest, the President places on women inclusion is reflected in the fact that over seventy percent of beneficiaries of the Grant across the twenty one local government areas of Kogi State are women.
She said fifteen percent of the total number of beneficiaries was alloted to Persons With Disabilities and Senior Citizens, saying President Tinubu is for all the citizens across party lines.
“The Grants for Vulnerable Groups Scheme is designed to provide a one-off cash grant of twenty thousand Naira(N20,000) to the poorest of the poor and most vulnerable Nigerians in rural communities.
“This one off grants is a kick starter to improve your livelihood, support your small, petty trading and I advise that this opportunity should not be taken for granted or mismanaged, she added.
The Minister warned the beneficiaries of different intervention programmes and the general public to beware of Scammers,saying the ministry has never ask anyone to pay money to register before they can access different programmes.
Speaking at the Event, the Governor of Kogi State, Dr Yahaya Bello, who described Dr Betta as one of President Tinubu’s Good Products, said “Renewed Hope” is in Kogi State.
The Governor who announced the Creation of both Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation and Kogi State Social Investment Programme Agency ,said all procedures with the state Assembly would be followed to enable the state benefits directly from the touch of the federal government.
Bello thanked President Tinubu for putting money into the vulnerable people’s pockets in Kogi state, he said the people are proud of Renewed Hope Programmes of the President. Indeed “Beta don come”
Some of the beneficiaries in a jubilant atmosphere who received their alert both inside and outside the hall echoed hope renewed,promise made promise kept.They described President Tinubu as a beacon of hope for the poorest of the poor in Kogi State and Nigeria.
They said the credit alerts served as a lifeline for many of them, offering not only financial assistance but also a renewed sense of dignity and optimism as Nigeria Citizens.
The Renewed Hope Grant, according to the Minister,signifies not just a financial boost but a paradigm shift in governance that prioritizes the well-being of the most vulnerable citizens to reduce poverty index in Nigeria
In response to the regrettable incident at Tudun Biri community in Kaduna state, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, has swiftly dispatched a high-level delegation to convey heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kaduna.
Led by the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, the delegation met with Deputy Governor Dr Hadiza Balarabe, members of Kaduna state security committee, and religious leaders to express solidarity and empathy during this challenging time.
According to Brigadier General Tukur Gusau Director, Defence Information in a press release he signed on 5 December, 2023 Addressing the media at the Government House Kaduna, Minister Matawalle emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to determine the facts surrounding the incident. He assured the public that the findings would be transparently communicated, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to preventing future occurrences. The Minister appealed for cooperation, calm, and continued support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Dr Bello Matawalle extended prayers for the souls of the departed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. He urged religious leaders to enlighten their followers, emphasizing that the incident was an operational error deeply regretted by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, which remains unwavering in its mandate to secure every part of the country.
In response, Deputy Governor Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the prompt delegation visit. She highlighted the state government’s continuous engagement with the affected community and religious leaders to maintain peace and mitigate tensions.
The delegation also visited the Kaduna Nursing Home to extend well-wishes to the wounded. Among the delegation were Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence; General Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff; Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff, and other distinguished members.
The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Magdalene Ajani has articulated where the World Bank could come in with its expertise and experience from working with some coastal countries to help develop needed structures of the newly created Ministry. “We need you to guide us to develop a framework, a clear roadmap and clear strategic plans” for the Ministry so that we can proceed properly along the path of developing a marine and blue economy such as the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR envisaged when it created the Ministry.” “Without all these, we will just be wobbling. We will just be working without proceeding along the pathway envisaged for us.” “We want to say at the end of the first tenure of this administration that these are our achievements; we will definitely need help.”
According to a report by Gift Osima (Chief Information Officer) & Desmond Adyo (Senior Information Officer), Signed by Olujimi Oyetomi, Director, Press & Public Relations on Tuesday, Dr. Magdalene Ajani was speaking today, Tuesday, 5th December, 2023 at a meeting with Drita Dade, a Senior Environmental Specialist (Western and Central African Region) with the World Bank Group who came seeking to know how the World Bank could come in, deploying its vast expertise and experience to assist African countries and by extension, the new Nigeria’s Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy find their feet as far as blue economy is concerned, which she stated that “based on the several analysis done by the World Bank, will invariably turn out to be the basis for economic growth.
The Permanent Secretary took up the World Bank Specialist up, on her revelation that the World Bank has already conducted a study to enhance the coastal status of the three Nigerian States of Lagos, Delta and Cross River in terms of marine and blue economy which she said ought to be availed her Ministry. “We don’t even have that (access to the study, its findings and recommendations).” “Apart from maritime and maritime safety, we’re zero.”
Dr, Ajani revealed that the structure of the newly created Marine and Blue Economy Ministry was just being approved with the additional Blue Economy Department to the pre-existing Marine Safety and Security and Maritime Services “and that is just a week ago.” “We’ve got involved in deep sea mining, the Ministry has been involved in International Seabed Authority (ISA) in Jamaica just in the last eighteen months, these are things we need to galvanize together as a Ministry to form a proper framework. The organizational design we have right now does not have fishery and aquaculture and should be. Probably when we develop a proper framework, we should be able to convince the Government why these should be in the Ministry.” Dr. Ajani sought the assistance of the World bank to be able to put the mentioned constituents of framework for the new Ministry together before the end of the first quarter of 2024.”
The Legal Adviser of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Pius Oteh while speaking in support of his Permanent Secretary sought for the World Bank to help the Ministry with the provision of “knowledge and knowledge sharing, data services” of which he expressed the belief that the World bank has accumulated by virtue of its work in other jurisdictions of the world.”
The Director, Legal Services further highlighted the need for the development of the capacity of the professionals who would be manning the new Ministry, the legal and even the core maritime areas to help the officers of the Ministry to have a good grasp of what they ought to be doing.”
Drita Dade revealed that the World Bank could help in providing needed data just as the Bank could assist through its “Pro-Blue” which is a programme for blue economy.
The Senior Environmental Specialist of the World Bank further revealed that the Bank’s integrated coastal zone management can be put at the disposal of Marine and Blue Economy Ministry to develop policies for the management of wastes especially plastic wastes and eliminate its impact for Nigeria. “The idea now is to balance the development and to increase employment and inclusive growth and also enhance the natural capital, the ecosystem that the oceans provide and seeing how the preservation of these resources can result in food security and increasing employment.”
“We can also bring in experts working in similar programmes to build the capacity of Nigerian officials of the Ministry.”
The specialist also recommended to the officials of the new Ministry to come up with a draft proposal which could be modified with additional adjustments made, to the World Bank.
Drita Dade also suggested “Marine Special Planning” as another window of funding for supporting the new Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy; “It is a tool which countries are using; it involves bringing together all the agencies, not just the key institutions to seek to improve the ecosystem.”
Africa Security Investigation News 