OHANEZE ND’IGBO VISITS ARASE DECRIES MARCANTILE POLICE ACTIVITIES ON EASTERN ROADS; – will forward your complaints to IGP PSC CHAIRMAN

By Emmanuel Daudu

The leadership of the OHANEZE ND’IGBO in the Federal Capital Territory  Abuja has decried the mercantile activities of Officers of the Nigeria Police Force on South East roads and lamented the hardship the people of the area go through while undertaking journeys across the zone.

According to Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations in a press release he signed on Thursday, November 30th 2023, a delegation of the Igbo ethnic group visited the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Dr. Solomon Arase CFR, retired  Inspector General of Police in his Office, today, Thursday November 30th 2023 where they complained of the high level extortion by Police men and the  indiscriminate road blocks that has become unpleasant between the citizens and the Police.

They called for  dismantling of the fee paying road blocks in the zone especially with the coming  heavy traffic expected during the Christmas and new year period in the South Zone.

Dr. Arase who promised to take  up the matter with the Inspector General of Police also used the occasion to plead with the leadership of OHANEZE to stop the incessant killings of Policemen in the zone.

According to Arase, ” the killings of Police Officers in the South East is becoming worrisome. They are killing them everyday  and they  should let the killers know that the Police is not there enemy. They have not done anything wrong. The Force have lost quite a number of serving Officers in the South East.

“We are your friends, stop making Police wives widows,  they are your sisters” he noted.

Dr. Arase said the problem of the South East is that of identity  crisis adding that ” we have resolved the perceived marginalisation of the zone in the Police representation in the country.

The leader of the Delegation, Elder (Bar) Onwu Arua, Presudent OHANEZE ND’IGBO  FCT Chapter said the Organization was concerned  about the lack of interest of the Igbos in the current ongoing recruitment exercise for Constables into the Police Force.

Elder Araua however called for a more elaborate  plan in Police Recruitment  apparatus  to redress the disadvantages of South  East in the Nigeria Police structure.

Youth Minister Lauds AGILE Projects, says Project Marks A Significant Milestone

Maryam Aminu

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim has praised the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, (AGILE) project in the seven pioneer states of the federation aimed at improving the education opportunities of the adolescent girls.

The project is aimed at ensuring that all adolescent girls across the country have access to quality secondary school education and benefit from enhanced learning, digital literacy, and life skills.

Speaking at the inauguration of the National Project steering committee which took place in Abuja recently, the Minister noted that the project would not only succeed but thrive to leave a lasting impact on the lives of the adolescent girls.

“The collective expertise will ensure that this initiative will not only succeed but thrive, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of the adolescent girls we aim to empower.” She said.

The Minister, praised the World Bank for its support, adding that the project marks a significant milestone in the collective commitment to the development and empowerment of adolescent girls across the nation.

Dr. Bio Ibrahim noted that President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration desires that the project goes beyond the current participating states of Bornu, Ekiti, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, and Plateau and the approval for an additional financing of US$ 700 million by the Federal Executive Council has paved the way for the expansion of the project to more states.

She added that the expansion of the project will ensure that its positive impact reaches even more communities which demonstrates the unwavering dedication to inclusivity and equitable opportunities for the youth.

Dr. Ibrahim, as a member of the steering committee, assured that the members would form a formidable team that would be dedicated to providing strategic guidance and oversight to the implementation of the AGILE project in the participating states.

The Minister called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards the success of the project for the good of the nation.

In her words, “Let us join hands in ensuring the success of the AGILE project, working collaboratively to uplift the lives of our youth and build a brighter and more empowered future for our nation.”

World bank Country Director to Nigeria, Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri, in his goodwill message, appreciated the success of the project and assured of his organisation’s continuous support.

The Honourable Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman inaugurated the National Project Steering Committee and charged members to execute the project diligently so as to deliver success.

Mamman added that the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project is a World Bank assisted project of the Federal Ministry of Education geared at improving secondary education opportunities for adolescent girls aged between 10 and 20.

FG To Adopt Initiatives of 2023 Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference

Maryam Aminu

Across Africa, the lack of good primary healthcare facilities is evident in most communities, especially remote ones. Disease outbreaks, high mortality, and the rise in non-communicable diseases are affecting the booming population of the various societies of the continents.

Declaring it’s commitment to take concrete steps to improve health equity across sectors and geographies and to help build a resilient and inclusive global economy that drives value for all, the Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed it’s commitment to adopt initiatives of 2023 Africa Center for Disease Control Youth pre- conference to achieve practical improvements in public health in the country

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim made this known while delivering her keynote address at the occasion held in Lusaka, capital of Zambia, recently.

In a statement by the Head, Press & Public Relations Unit, Maryam Umar Yusuf, the Minister assured members that resolutions from the conference will be adopted in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigerian Center of Disease Control and the Federal Ministry of Health.

“This is an initiative we also commit to adopt in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria CDC and the Federal Ministry of Health.” She said.

The Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference (YPC 2023), with the theme “Youth Leadership for a safer and healthier Africa,” is actualising this to forge innovative solutions for health security through initiatives

According to the organisers, the overall goal of the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference is to advance and institutionalise the
strategic engagement between Africa CDC and young people by providing a space for young people to critically reflect on the current state of public health in Africa, to share perspectives on the role of young people in public health, and exchange prospects and innovative solutions to enhance meaningful youth engagement in this area.

From records, the African continent with at least 65% of the population under the age of 30 has the world’s largest demography of young people.

Africa has an opportunity for the growth of the youth, but only when these new generations are fully empowered to realize their best potential. It is very important that young people are included in decision-making and given appropriate opportunities to work and innovate.
Youth innovation and participation in health systems are vital to building a safer and healthier Africa.

FG To Adopt Initiatives of 2023 Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference

Maryam Aminu

Across Africa, the lack of good primary healthcare facilities is evident in most communities, especially remote ones. Disease outbreaks, high mortality, and the rise in non-communicable diseases are affecting the booming population of the various societies of the continents.

Declaring it’s commitment to take concrete steps to improve health equity across sectors and geographies and to help build a resilient and inclusive global economy that drives value for all, the Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed it’s commitment to adopt initiatives of 2023 Africa Center for Disease Control Youth pre- conference to achieve practical improvements in public health in the country

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim made this known while delivering her keynote address at the occasion held in Lusaka, capital of Zambia, recently.

In a statement by the Head, Press & Public Relations Unit, Maryam Umar Yusuf, the Minister assured members that resolutions from the conference will be adopted in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigerian Center of Disease Control and the Federal Ministry of Health.

“This is an initiative we also commit to adopt in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria CDC and the Federal Ministry of Health.” She said.

The Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference (YPC 2023), with the theme “Youth Leadership for a safer and healthier Africa,” is actualising this to forge innovative solutions for health security through initiatives

According to the organisers, the overall goal of the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference is to advance and institutionalise the
strategic engagement between Africa CDC and young people by providing a space for young people to critically reflect on the current state of public health in Africa, to share perspectives on the role of young people in public health, and exchange prospects and innovative solutions to enhance meaningful youth engagement in this area.

From records, the African continent with at least 65% of the population under the age of 30 has the world’s largest demography of young people.

Africa has an opportunity for the growth of the youth, but only when these new generations are fully empowered to realize their best potential. It is very important that young people are included in decision-making and given appropriate opportunities to work and innovate.
Youth innovation and participation in health systems are vital to building a safer and healthier Africa.

FG To Adopt Initiatives of 2023 Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference

Maryam Aminu

Across Africa, the lack of good primary healthcare facilities is evident in most communities, especially remote ones. Disease outbreaks, high mortality, and the rise in non-communicable diseases are affecting the booming population of the various societies of the continents.

Declaring it’s commitment to take concrete steps to improve health equity across sectors and geographies and to help build a resilient and inclusive global economy that drives value for all, the Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed it’s commitment to adopt initiatives of 2023 Africa Center for Disease Control Youth pre- conference to achieve practical improvements in public health in the country

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim made this known while delivering her keynote address at the occasion held in Lusaka, capital of Zambia, recently.

In a statement by the Head, Press & Public Relations Unit, Maryam Umar Yusuf, the Minister assured members that resolutions from the conference will be adopted in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigerian Center of Disease Control and the Federal Ministry of Health.

“This is an initiative we also commit to adopt in Nigeria in collaboration with Nigeria CDC and the Federal Ministry of Health.” She said.

The Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference (YPC 2023), with the theme “Youth Leadership for a safer and healthier Africa,” is actualising this to forge innovative solutions for health security through initiatives

According to the organisers, the overall goal of the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference is to advance and institutionalise the
strategic engagement between Africa CDC and young people by providing a space for young people to critically reflect on the current state of public health in Africa, to share perspectives on the role of young people in public health, and exchange prospects and innovative solutions to enhance meaningful youth engagement in this area.

From records, the African continent with at least 65% of the population under the age of 30 has the world’s largest demography of young people.

Africa has an opportunity for the growth of the youth, but only when these new generations are fully empowered to realize their best potential. It is very important that young people are included in decision-making and given appropriate opportunities to work and innovate.
Youth innovation and participation in health systems are vital to building a safer and healthier Africa.

Journalists Trained On Climate Change   Reporting 

Maryam Aminu

Climate change is one global challenge of the 21st century. The continent is worst affected by the negative impacts of global warming and climate change. There is no doubt that the negative impacts of extreme weather events due to climate change has continued to increase in the African continent

The extent of devastation and destruction of lives and property, as well as loss of livelihoods were unprecedented

In recognition of this, The UN Information Centre for Nigeria and the World Meteorological Organisation on Monday 27th November, 2023 organised a one-day Media sensitization on climate change and COP28 in Abuja.

The workshop aimed to enhance media practitioners’ skills and knowledge on effective reporting of environmental and climate change issues, thereby fostering greater and improved climate change related coverage.
Speaking at the workshop, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Representatives for North, Central and West Africa, Bernard Edward Gomez said Media plays a critical role in communicating weather and climate information. Hence the need to build the capacity of journalists

Gomez added that the impacts of climate change are no longer distant threats.

“The impacts of climate change are no longer distant threats; they are unfolding before our very eyes, affecting every corner of the globe and Nigeria is not an exception. We are witnessing unprecedented heavy rainfall events leading to devastating floods, and rising sea levels threatening coastal communities.”

“These impacts are not just environmental; they are profoundly social, economic, and political, exacerbating existing inequalities and threatening the stability of nations”, said WMO representative.

Restating the role of journalism in addressing climate change, he said: “As the Fourth Estate of the realm, journalists have a critical responsibility to inform the public about the realities of climate change. By shedding light on the complex issues surrounding climate change, journalists empower individuals, communities, and policymakers to make informed decisions and to act.”

Speaking also, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Matthias Schmale said 2023 is on track to be the hottest year on record.

Schmale highlighted the severe impact of climate change in Nigeria, referencing last year’s staggering statistics of flooding-related casualties and destruction.

Schmale emphasized the responsibility of the media to report facts, explain the science, and outline the consequences of climate change for Nigerians.

“As journalists, you will have noticed the continuous stream of headlines about record-breaking temperatures this year. The hottest ever July, August, September, and October were all in 2023.

“In July, for four days in a row, the planet reached its hottest day ever recorded. According to preliminary estimates, another record was set just ten days ago on November 17th when the global average surface temperature was more than 2°C above pre-industrial levels for the first time. 2023 is on track to be the hottest year on record!

“In the North, desertification is causing the loss of arable land in 15 states. In the Middle Belt, gully erosion and flooding are forcing people from their ancestral homes. In the South, seasonal and flash flooding are destroying lives and livelihoods.

On his part the Director General, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) Prof. Mansur Bako Matazu, restated the role of the media in ensurung that people receive accurate, timely, and relevant weather and climate information, which helps communities make climate-informed decisions and take appropriate actions to protect themselves and their property.

Matazu highlighted the vulnerability of third-world countries contributing minimally to global emissions.

He stressed the need for localized solutions based on local evidence of climate change.

FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION IS A COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY- DEFENCE PERM. SEC.

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni has said that the fight against corruption was a collective responsibility of all Civil Servants.

According to Henshaw Ogubike, mnipr
Director (Press & PR), in a press release on Wednesday, he disclosed that Dr.Kana stated this during a two-day sensitization programme on anti corruption for staff of the Ministry of Defence at Ship House, Abuja.

He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s goal  was to prevent corruption and increase transparency that would bring about development in the country.

Speaking during the sensitization workshop, the Permanent Secretary who was represented by the Director of Reform Coordination and and Service Improvement of the Ministry Ms. Susan Ochida said that the programme with the theme “strategies in combating corruption in work places” organized for Directorate level Officers and Officers on Salary Grade 14 and below of the Ministry is to put in place good governance and reduce corruption.

He said: “Anti Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) was developed to fight corruption in the Civil Service, a consequence that calls for the sensitization on corruption in the Ministry.”

He added that there was a need for attitudinal change and commitments to have great success at work.  “I look forward to having a corrupt free working place,” he said.

The Chairman, Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit of Ministry of Defence, Garba Ibrahim Usman in his vote of thanks said that the fight against corruption was a collective responsibility which involves every staff of of Government establishments.

“You and I are responsible to fight against corruption in our offices and I urge that we all  join hands with ACTU in achieving transparency and accountability in our workplace so as to make the Ministry and the nation at large a better place,” he said.

The resource persons, Acting Director, System Study and Review Department, Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) Mr. Adebayo  Obaniyi and ICPC Commissioner, Hassan Salihu delivered lectures on the topics: “Strategies of Combating Public Sector Corruption” and “Strategies of Combating Corruption in Work Places”, respectively.

Mr. Adebayo opined that the major cause of corruption is greed and this encourages acquisition of material wealth one does not need or commensurate to one’s income.

FG To Upgrade NYSC Orientation Camps Nationwide – Youth Minister

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its commitment to upgrade all the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps across the country to ensure compact and habitable premises for everyone especially corp members

The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development Ayodele Olawande gave the assurance yesterday during an unscheduled visit to the NYSC orientation Camp in Yikpata, Kwara State.

In a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations, Maryam Umar Yusuf said the Minister raised concerns over the poor state of infrastructure and operating conditions at NYSC orientation camps nationwide and pledged to engage with relevant authorities to transform Kwara State orientation camp and others nationwide

He further assured the corps members and that his administration will ensure a camp that is habitable for the all corp members

He further commended the corp members for their resilience, assuring that Tinubu’s administration would not fail them

“If I can be a Minister, you all can become whatever you wish to be, and the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to encourage young people, and putting youth in charge of youth affairs is just one such encouragement”. He said.

“Where do you go from here? How do you live decent lives as a graduate? These are some of the questions the Tinubu administration will answer for the youth. We’ll not fail you,” the Minister added.

In his remarks, the State Coordinator of NYSC in Kwara State, Mr. Onifade Olaoluwa expressed his happiness over the minister’s visit, describing it as a morale booster.

“We are happy with the visit of the Hon. Minister of State for Youth Development and equally excited with the prospects of his pledge to rejig the NYSC and improve its operations, especially as it concerns the camp facilities.” He said.

Before leaving the camp, the minister interacted with the corps members amid cheers. Olawande also visited the Mami market, where he bought some food items that were shared with them. The Minister also inspected the kitchen, hostels, and clinic

Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar Eulogises Troops Of Op Hadin Kai For Their Effort Towards Ending Terrorism

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has eulogized the troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) North East (NE) Operation HADIN KAI for their commitment and effort towards ensuring that  peace is fully restored in North East Nigeria.

Brigadier General
Onyema Nwachukwu
Director Army Public Relations in a press release on 29 November 2023, said, the Minister gave the commendation on Tuesday 28 November 2023, while addressing  troops of JTF  NE Operation HADIN KAI at the 212 Battalion parade ground in Maimalari Military Cantonment Maiduguri.

The Defence minister disclosed that his visit to the frontline was in line with the directive of the President, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces Bola Ahmed Tinubu  to conduct an on the spot assessment of the challenges confronting troops in the frontline with a view to provide solutions. He assured the troops of the President’s commitment towards ensuring that the welfare of troops is a topmost priority of his government.

Earlier, the Minister had paid a visit to the governor of Borno State, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum in his office where he expressed appreciation on behalf of the Federal Government for his continuous support to the Nigerian Military in their remarkable effort in the fight against the remnants of Boko Haram and their ISWAP counter parts.The Borno State Governor equally equally lauded the Federal Government for committing resources and the political will towards the restoration of peace in Borno state and the contiguous states.

At the Headquarters Theatre Command,  Defence minister was briefed on the operational activities and security situation in the North East theatre by the Theatre Commander Major General Gold Chibuisi, after which he proceeded to pay a visit to wounded in action personnel receiving treatment at the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital.

On the Defence minister’s entourage were the Honourable minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar and the Chief of Defence Intelligence Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye.

Also, present during the visit were Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Services Headquarters,  General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Component Commanders, Heads of Security Agencies and Paramilitary Organisations, amongst others.

COAS LIEUTENANT GENERAL TAOREED LAGBAJA DECLARES OPEN NIGERIAN ARMY INTER – FORMATION COMBAT PLATOON ORIENTEERING AND ADVENTURE CHAMPIONSHIP

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has today 28 November 2023 declared open the Nigerian Army Inter-Formation Combat Platoon Orienteering and Adventure Championship. The event, which brings together troops from all the Divisions of the Nigerian Army is aimed at testing and enhancing the physical and mental capabilities of the NA troops through competition.

Addressing the participants at the opening ceremony held at the Small Arms Range Miango Jos, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja emphasized the significance of orienteering and adventure challenges in honing the skills required by professional soldiers. He highlighted that the competition not only showcases physical prowess but also tests mental strength and the ability to make quick and strategic decisions essential for the everyday duties of a professional soldier.

Represented by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVE, Major General AE Abubakar, the Army Chief stressed that events such as the championship play a crucial role in preparing troops for a wide range of activities they may encounter in the line of duty. He called on all participants to approach the competition with utmost seriousness, interest, and a spirit of comradeship. He further encouraged them to display the highest levels of dedication and professionalism throughout the event.

Speaking further, the Chief of Army Staff issued a stern warning against any form of malpractice and drug use emphasizing the importance of upholding the highest standards of discipline and conduct during the championship.

While underscoring the vital role of training in the development of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Lagbaja outlined his command philosophy “To transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.” He emphasized that training stands as a major pillar in achieving this vision, focusing on the need for a well-prepared and capable military force.

Administering oath to the participants and the umpires, the Acting Director Physical Training (Army) Brigadier General AR Bello charged the participants to be guided by the laid down rules of the competition to avoid reduction in their marks. He further charged the umpires to ensure fairness and justice to all participant throughout the competition .

The Nigerian Army Inter-Formation Combat Platoon Orienteering and Adventure Championship promises to be an exhilarating showcase of skill, teamwork, and determination, encompassing the commitment of the Nigerian Army to excellence and readiness in fulfilling its constitutional duties.