The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has announced a new partnership with Gloves for Africa to empower young boxers in the state.
The collaboration, facilitated by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, aims to enhance the skills and opportunities for young athletes in Oyo State.
Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, expressed optimism about the impact of this partnership, stating it will provide young boxers with top-quality training, equipment, and mentorship.
“This collaboration will help our athletes compete on both national and international platforms,” she said.
The Oyo State Government remains dedicated to sports development and youth empowerment initiatives.
This partnership aligns with the state’s goals to instill values like discipline, hard work, and fair play in its young population.
The joint initiatives under this collaboration will include training programs, tournaments, scholarships, and the promotion of boxing among young people in the state.
Hon. Adegoke expressed gratitude to Gloves for Africa for their commitment to supporting youth through sports and looks forward to a successful partnership.
The Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria (AHUON) has successfully concluded its 2nd Annual Zonal Conference, held from 19th to 28th August 2024.
The conference took place across Lagos, Kano, and Abuja, providing a platform for the National Executive Council (NEC) of AHUON to meet with members from its three zones.
The event served as an opportunity to update members on the association’s activities over the past year and to gather feedback for future development.
This year’s conference was held under the theme, “Hajj Reform: The Position of AHUON,” starting in Lagos on 19th August, moving to Kano on 22nd August, and concluding with a grand event in Abuja on 28th August.
The gathering attracted top industry experts, representatives from the National Assembly, financial institutions, and the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), with a NAHCON representative serving as the Chairman of the occasion.
The National President Abdullateef Yusuf Ekundayo commended the Federal Government of Nigeria, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for its ongoing support to Nigerian pilgrims.
Ekundayo urged the government to extend similar support to pilgrims under private tour operators.
The participants unanimously call for the immediate amendment of the NAHCON Acts, which was described as outdated and inadequate for modern Hajj management, particularly in light of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reforms.
The participants emphasised that any future amendments to the NAHCON Acts should include provisions for private sector initiatives led by AHUON, with representation on the NAHCON board, reflecting the increasingly critical role of private tour operators in Hajj management.
Concerns were raised regarding NAHCON’s delay in closing the financial accounts for the 2024 Hajj, with a strong demand for the commission to reconcile its accounts and settle all outstanding payments before opening bids for the 2025 Hajj license.
AHUON Members also criticised NAHCON for its lack of response to AHUON’s call for intervention on the inconsistent Umrah visa regime from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, urging direct government involvement in this matter.
The conference also condemned the practice of reallocating slots meant for tour operators to other government agencies and called on NAHCON to honour the allocation of 20,000 slots reserved for private tour companies.
There was widespread dissatisfaction with the current service provider, Ithra AlKhair, due to its perceived failure to deliver optimal services.
AHUON Members called for Ithra AlKhair’s replacement or the engagement of multiple service providers, as is done in other countries.
AHUON was encouraged to pursue greater professionalism and aim for charter status, which would help consolidate its achievements in eliminating unqualified operators from the industry.
The participants also advocated for a review of the association’s constitution to align with standard practices and enhance good governance.
The conference stressed the importance of maintaining high standards in all dealings with pilgrims, who are considered guests of Allah.
It was agreed that improved cooperation and possible mergers among members would be crucial for effective operations in the future.
Recognising the need to address airlift challenges faced by pilgrims, the conference endorsed the proposal to introduce Flyadeal as a dedicated carrier for AHUON members, following its successful operations during the 2024 Hajj.
The conference concluded with the unveiling of a new logo for AHUON, symbolising a new era and the association’s readiness to embrace comprehensive Hajj reforms.
The ruling All Progressive Congress, APC will on Friday, September 6th, 2024 set to unveil its newly established Think Tank and Resource Center, The Progressive Institute, TPI in Abuja.
According to Wale Abideen, Head, Media and Strategic Communication, the Progressive Institute Abuja, disclosed that the formal unveiling, slated for 10: am at the Abuja Inter-Continental Hotel, (formally Sheraton Hotels), will be performed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He further stated that the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje is expected to host the event while Governor Hope Uzodimma, Chairman, the Progressives Governors’ Forum will be delivering inaugural lecture on ‘The Progressive Philosophy and its Programmatic Implications on Governance’.
Similarly, the Director General, of the institute, Lanre Adebayo, PhD, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja early noted that the Program is being organized as part of the arrangements for the official take-off of The Progressive Institute.
“TPI is registered by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) as a Company Limited by Guarantee and it has been duly certified by the Ministries of Justice and Education”.
The DG added that TPI was established as a strategic decision of the APC Leadership to enhance its leadership recruitment process through quality training, strengthen intra-party democracy and governance as well as the APC’s policy role especially through independent research. The Institute will develop a template for all season voters education as part of the APC’s efforts to empower the Nigerian electorate.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a ‘Youth House’ in Abuja, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at creating a central hub for young people from diverse cultural and social backgrounds.
The Minister of State for Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande, announced the approval today during a press conference held at his office in Abuja.
Engr. Olawande explained that the ‘Youth House’ will serve as a meeting point for young Nigerians, offering a platform for social interaction, self-discovery, and talent development.
He highlighted that this initiative fulfills a long-standing desire among youth groups for a dedicated space in the nation’s capital.
“What the President has accomplished is to provide all Nigerian youth with another platform for social interaction and an opportunity to discover their self-identity and passions. With the ‘Youth House’ now established, many young people will have the chance to effectively showcase their talents and abilities,” said Olawande.
He added, “For a long time, various youth stakeholders and groups have been calling for a significant building in the nation’s capital to function as a ‘Youth House,’ but this desire has gone unfulfilled. Now, our youth-supporting President has made this a reality, and Nigerian youth are grateful.”
According to the Minister, a detailed organogram and the functions of the Youth House will be released soon.
He noted that the initiative aims to develop essential life skills among the youth, including leadership, teamwork, cooperation, and communication.
Olawande also revealed plans for establishing Youth Centres in each state capital and ‘Youth Green Houses’ at the secretariats of all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs).
According to him, “I want to emphasize that the Youth House will not only be in the FCT, but there will also be a Youth Centre in every state of the Federation, along with a corresponding Youth Green House to be situated within the secretariats of all the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs). Although these won’t be large structures, they will help us achieve our goal of bringing the government closer to the youth at every level to promote fairness and enhance the administration’s commitment to implementing youth programs and policies inclusively.”
The initiative, which involves coordination with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) and private sector partners, is expected to facilitate opportunities for all categories of youth across Nigeria.
Olawande praised President Tinubu for his commitment to youth development, stating that the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” has already shown tangible benefits for Nigerian youth.
He called on the youth to remain patient and supportive, emphasizing the government’s continued focus on youth issues.
Minster of State for Youth Development, Engr. Ayodele Olawande
The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reaffirmed its commitment to identifying new avenues for revenue generation to support Nigeria’s development under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
This announcement was made by RMAFC Chairman, Muhammed Bello Shehu, OFR, during a meeting with the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
Shehu, represented by Engineer Muhammed Sanni Baba, Honourable Member representing Bauchi State in the Commission, made this statement during a visit by a delegation from the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA).
The delegation, led by Dr. Abayomi Taofik Alaga, Director of Mission Planning and Satellite Data Management, was at the Commission to provide insights on exploring new revenue lines for the Federation.
The Chairman disclosed that NASRDA had been invited by the Commission to present strategies for optimising potential revenue streams into the Federation Account. This aligns with the core mandate of the Commission: to identify, mobilise, monitor, and recommend alternative sources of revenue for sharing among the three tiers of government in Nigeria.
“We welcome the NASRDA delegation as they guide us through the operational details of their organisation and enlighten us on how we can better achieve our mandate,” he said.
The Chairman also revealed that the Commission plans to extend its collaboration beyond NASRDA to include the Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT).
He said the aim is to leverage optimised satellite operations to enhance the monitoring and evaluation of revenues accruing to the Federation Account.
Dr. Leke Oyewale, Managing Director of Milky-Way Visuals and a member of the NASRDA delegation, presented on the potential revenue streams from space technology through geospatial support.
He explained that initiatives such as satellite development, space-based services, and the commercialisation of space research could significantly boost revenue generation.
Dr. Oyewale highlighted various other revenue opportunities, including bunker levies in midstream operations, ocean meteorological services, satellite monitoring of pollution, recovery of spilled oil, cargo clearance platforms within ports, automation of revenue lines, and value addition to telecommunications services.
He estimated that these initiatives could generate over $45 billion annually in the first two years and potentially increase to $50 billion per annum with adequate harnessing.
He further noted that additional opportunities exist in the solid minerals and agricultural sectors. These sectors could generate around 4.5 billion naira annually from mining operations and up to 500 billion naira annually from digital agriculture.
Ambassador Ayuba Ngbako, Honourable Member representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the Commission, extended a vote of thanks, commending NASRDA and Milky-Way Visuals Limited for their presentations.
He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to incorporating satellite technology and encouraged the Board Members and staff to apply the knowledge gained to boost Nigeria’s economy.
Aremu Commends UNACCC Global Leaders On Support To SDGs’ implementation
VC CUICI, USA Outlines Various Contributions of UNACCC To Agenda 2030
By Victor Bieni, Asaba
UNESCO Laureate & Vice Chancellor, Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, Professor Sir Bashiru Aremu, has commended the Global leaders of Unity of Nations Action For Climate Change Council (UNACCC), an official partner of United Nations on contributions to meeting agenda 2030 as he outlines the group’s relevance to Global SDGs achievements or implementation in different countries of the world.
The media learnt this from Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu today being Tuesday, September 3, 2024 in a press statement personally signed by him which was 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 Aremu commended the group’s global leaders for being good ambassadors of the 17 United Nations’ SDGs or Global goals.
United Nations 17 Global SDGs implementation or Agenda 2030 means Sustainable Development Goals listed by United Nations targeted at in order to eradicate poverty and realize a sustainable world.
You could recall that Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu was recently appointed Head, Africa-UNAccc. He has Started performing his roles as different Heads, Board of Trustees, Patrons from other 57 African countries, Executives from States in those countries have started emerging as great Actors and Achievers in Global SDGs, most importantly promoting Climate change actions towards a sustainable world or economic growth and development.
Prof Aremu stated that the relevance of UNACCC as a global CEO group domesticating SDGs in the entire world are among others: To reduce the high level of Carbon intensity, remove impediments to global sustainable growth and development, address the challenges of SDGs, open opportunities, prospects towards SDGs achievements through collaborations with various businesses, individuals, Organizations, governments and international donors or agencies.
VC CUICI, USA & UNESCO Laureate in the release, has lauded the efforts of the UN body towards global 17 goals, SDGs implementation Success stated: “I must commend the leadership of Unity of Nations Action For Climate Chance Council (UNACCC, an official partner of United Nations on daily contributions to global SDGs’ achievements or implementation”.
“The United of Nations Actions for Climate Change Council (UNACCC) is a global organization on addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development”.
“It operates as a public policy think tank and research institute, that operates world wide in collaboration with Chief Executive Officer and Managing Directors UNAccc work identifying low carbon growth opportunities, implementing sustainable development goals (SDGs) for 2030, and create strategies mitigate adverse impacts of climate change”.
“UNACCC has collaborations with various Stakeholders including business, governments and other organizations, to accelerate transition to a sustainable world. Their initiative aims to lower the carbon intensity of the economic and address barriers to sustainable development”.
“UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the Vice Chancellor of The Crown University International Chartered in Inc. USA which is a global recognized private research university which offers professional vocational training and higher education. It serves as an autonomous global recognized university, offering education and practical skill in the courses taught at its official partner’s constituents campuses at government regulated universities worldwide and online operation”.
“Crown University International Chartered Incorporated Inc. Entity is duly incorporated under the International Laws of 1704,1776 and 1787 in United States of America with chartered file number: 7594662 as a worldwide recognized teaching and research university with International Trade Mark registered of logo with an international trademark order of receipt number: 668383, Customer number:270163 in United States of America”.
“Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is the World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), UNESCO Laureate & HRH Duke of Kingdom of Atlantis in Singapore is The VC, CUICI, USA, a Fellow of Royal Society For Arts, Manufacturers and Commerce (RSA), United Kingdom (UK). He is a Life Fellow & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), USA. He is the World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor and Editorial Board Member, Cambridge Publishing, United Kingdom”.
“He is known as World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor of Computer Science, Information Communication Technology in different global and Nigerian Universities such as Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Ambrose Ali University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Imo State University, Imo State, Kaduna State University, Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State”.
“UNESCO Laureate is the Pioneer Member Board of Trustees of Minaret International University, Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria (Proposed) to mention but a few. And other Global Universities such as West Coast University of Science, Technology & Arts, Bharat University, India.
“He is also a World Acclaimed Distinguished Universities Research Professor at Pradesh, Mandsaur, Mother Theresa Women University, India, World Congress of Arts, Sciences & Communication, as had served as Deputy Director-General for Africa And Research Professor at International Biographical Centre. Prof Aremu is cited in the World recognized publications by Famous Marquis Who’s is Who in the World”.
In a landmark event, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) officially inaugurated its newly elected National Executive Committee (Exco) today, Friday August 30, 2024, marking a significant milestone in the organization’s history.
A statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Guild, Malam Abdullahi Gulloma stated that, “The inauguration ceremony, which commenced at precisely 12:12 pm, was conducted virtually by Barr. Ahmed Kehinde Lambe, the Principal Partner of Lambe & Co., an Abuja-based law firm and Notary Public.”
Added that, “The newly elected Exco members solemnly took the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office, pledging to uphold the mission, values, and principles of the NGIJ. The oaths were administered with the utmost solemnity, underscoring the gravity of the responsibilities the new leaders have assumed.
“I am truly humbled and honored to stand before you today as we usher in a new chapter for the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists,” said the newly elected NGIJ President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan in his inauguration address.
“We are committed to fostering a culture of fearless reporting, holding power to account, and championing the public interest in all our endeavors.”
The President acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, but expressed the Exco’s unwavering dedication to advancing the noble cause of investigative journalism in Nigeria.
“The road ahead will undoubtedly be filled with obstacles, but we are resolute in our commitment to bringing about positive change, promoting transparency, and safeguarding the freedom of the press.”
According to the statement, “The newly sworn-in Exco members pledged to serve the NGIJ members with integrity, transparency, and dedication, ensuring that their voices are heard and their interests are represented. They also committed to upholding the organization’s constitution and bylaws, and to work collaboratively with their fellow officers and members to achieve the Guild’s goals and objectives.”
The inauguration ceremony was attended by a diverse audience, including NGIJ members, media professionals, and industry stakeholders, all of whom witnessed the passing of the torch to the new leadership team.
New Executive members of NGIJ are, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, the President, Oyewale Oyelola, Vice President (Administration and Strategic Communications), Comrade James Ezema as the Vice President 2 (Investigation).
Others: Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa, the National Secretary of the Guild, Mr. Gbenga Shaba, the Treasurer while Malam Abdullahi Gulloma sworn-in as the Public Relations Officer and Ikem Ifeoma, the Auditor. Meanwhile, the offices of the Registrar and Financial Secretary of the Guild remain vacant to be filled by bye-election within a possible shortest time.
As the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists enters this new era, the members, the media landscape, and the public at large can look forward to a renewed spirit of dedication, innovation, and excellence in the pursuit of investigative journalism in the country.
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, has called for stronger collaboration between federal and state governments to accelerate youth development across Nigeria.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with Commissioners of Youth from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) yesterday at the Shehu Musa Yaradua Centre, Abuja, Dr. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of unity in advancing the welfare and potential of the nation’s youth.
Welcoming the participants, Dr. Ibrahim expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage directly with state commissioners in pursuit of the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which aims to create a brighter future for young Nigerians.
“This gathering is a testament to our shared commitment to youth development, we are here to strengthen our efforts, align our strategies, and ensure that our policies genuinely reflect the aspirations of the youth we serve.” She said
Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the ongoing review of the National Youth Policy 2023-2028, which she described as a critical framework for addressing the diverse needs of Nigerian youth.
She stressed the importance of adapting the policy to the unique circumstances of each state through a series of zonal consultations.
“Our goal is to ensure that this policy is not just a document but a living framework that responds to the local realities of our young people,” Dr. Ibrahim stated.
“I urge all commissioners to actively participate in the consultations and bring forward the voices and priorities of your states.”
The Minister outlined several significant youth-focused programmes and initiatives under the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Tinubu, designed to empower young Nigerians and provide opportunities for growth and development:
She mentioned The Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) Programme, The 3 Million Technical Talents Scheme,The Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA) and The National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP)
In alignment with these initiatives, Dr. Ibrahim detailed the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, including the restructuring of the Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF), now endowed with 110 billion Naira.
“The Fund is set to evolve into the National Youth Development Fund, a more comprehensive and sustainable framework aimed at supporting youth entrepreneurship, skills acquisition, and innovative projects nationwide.”
“We are committed to transforming the NYIF into a permanent national resource that will empower Nigerian youth for generations to come,” Dr. Ibrahim affirmed, revealing ongoing legislative efforts to institutionalize the fund.
The Minister announced several other key initiatives aimed at fostering youth development
These she said includes Presidential Initiative on Youth Enterprise Clusters (PIYEC):Targeting the creation of 2 million jobs through strategic business clusters across various sectors, including agroforestry, with initial support from Niger and Katsina States. Establishment of the National Youth
The Development Bank initiative is a dedicated financial institution to support youth-owned enterprises, particularly those not covered under existing commercial loan regimes.
Others include Reforms to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Aimed at making the NYSC experience more impactful, financially rewarding, and sustainable, beyond its role in promoting national integration and Launch of the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP) Supported by international partners, including the European Union, this programme is designed to equip young Nigerians with contemporary skills and prepare them for future job markets.
Dr. Ibrahim revealed plans to launch the National Council on Youth, a platform for coordination and collaboration among stakeholders in youth development. The Council will include key figures such as the Honourable Minister and Honourable Minister of State, the Permanent Secretary, and Commissioners of Youth from all states and the FCT.
“This Council will ensure that our policies are effectively implemented and that the voices of our youth are heard at the highest levels of government,” she explained.
Dr. Ibrahim called on the commissioners to align their state-level youth programmes with national priorities under the “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
She emphasized the need for a coordinated approach to maximize the impact of youth development efforts across the country.
“Let us seize this opportunity to build stronger partnerships, learn from one another, and create a cohesive strategy that truly addresses the needs of our young people,” she urged.
“Together, we can achieve great things for the youth of Nigeria.”
The meeting ended on a hopeful note, with a shared commitment to furthering youth development through strengthened partnerships and strategic collaboration across all levels of government.
In an interview with journalists, the Oyo State Commissioner for Youth, Hon. Wasilat Adefemi, expressed optimism about the consultative meeting with the Minister of Youth, describing it as a crucial step in fostering synergy between the federal and state governments.
Hon. Adefemi noted that the meeting provided state commissioners with vital information beyond what is typically seen on social media and in news headlines, enhancing their understanding of youth-related issues.
She emphasized that youth empowerment remains a top priority for her administration, highlighting that, with the support of Governor Seyi Makinde, the state has successfully graduated 500 youths in various skills development programs.
Hon. Adefemi assured that efforts to empower more youths across the state would continue as part of her commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for young people in Oyo State.
In a renewed effort to tackle climate change and environmental degradation, the Federal Government has directed all National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to plant a minimum of ten trees before their Passing Out Parade (POP). This directive was announced by the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, during the national flag-off of the NYSC tree-planting campaign at the permanent orientation camp in Keffi, Nasarawa State.
Dr. Bio Ibrahim highlighted the Federal Government’s partnership with the African Union Development Agency (AU-NEPAD) to lead this initiative, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to planting 25 million trees by 2030. She emphasized the critical role of tree planting in mitigating climate change and encouraged corps members to use their creativity and energy to foster positive environmental changes in their communities.
“With around 400,000 corps members mobilized annually, the planting of 10 trees per person will result in four million new trees each year, achieving 20 million trees over five years. The NYSC, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is fully equipped to fulfill this ambitious goal,” Dr. Bio Ibrahim noted.
Addressing the urgency of the initiative, she pointed out that desertification has eroded Nigeria’s valuable agricultural land, leading to conflicts over land use and creating challenges for farmers, herders, and communities.
“Climate change is profoundly impacting Nigeria, evident in the desertification in the north due to droughts and erosion in the south caused by floods,” she explained.
The Minister also highlighted the adverse effects of climatic variations on agricultural produce, air quality, and soil health, calling for collective action to protect the environment.
Dr. Bio Ibrahim stressed the importance of tree planting as an effective strategy to combat desertification, erosion, and other environmental challenges, including insecurity.
“Even small efforts can make a big difference in conserving the environment. However, the success of this endeavor relies on the energy and innovative spirit of our youths,” she added.
She called on all stakeholders, including community leaders and government agencies, to support the program to ensure a healthier environment for future generations.
Dr. Bio Ibrahim emphasized that Nigerian youth, with their creativity, energy, and commitment, are crucial to the project’s success, urging Corps members to harness these qualities to achieve the program’s goals.
World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria has commended Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State for the distribution of 6.5 billion naira to 65000 beneficiaries aimed at reducing poverty in the state
This initiative has garnered commendation from organisations, notably the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria, which regard it as a significant step towards achieving Goal 1 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): to end poverty in all its forms everywhere.
The country representative made this statement following the flag-off/ distributions of the fund in the state’s capital on Monday.
The organization states that this initiative aligns with goal 1 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which aims to end poverty.
The country representative, Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan expressed his support for the governor’s actions pointing out that other governors should emulate him
According to him, “Poverty remains one of the most pressing challenges faced by countries around the world, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria. In a laudable effort to combat this issue, Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has initiated the distribution of 6.5 billion naira aimed at supporting the impoverished communities within his jurisdiction.
“Nigeria is beset by debilitating poverty, with the World Bank estimating that over 40% of its population lives below the national poverty line. This stark reality is not merely a statistic; it manifests itself in inadequate access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, healthcare, and education. As such, state governments have a fundamental responsibility to address this crisis. The devastating impacts of poverty can lead to a range of societal issues, including increased crime rates, social unrest, and a diminished quality of life for citizens. Recognising these risks, Governor Nasir Idris is taking a commendable step by working to alleviate poverty through direct financial support. This form of intervention is crucial, as it not only provides immediate relief to those in dire need but also lays the groundwork for long-term economic empowerment.
“Governor Idris’s initiative aligns with Goal 1 of the SDGs, which underscores the global commitment to ending poverty. The SDGs were established by the United Nations in 2015 as a blueprint for achieving a better and more sustainable future for all. In Nigeria, efforts to align with these goals are critical, as they represent an international consensus on the necessity of proactive measures to address poverty and inequality.”
“The work of the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria, led by the country representative Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan, emphasises the importance of local action in support of this global agenda.
“By distributing funds directly targeted at the poor, Governor Idris is not merely fulfilling a governmental obligation; he is also aligning with a broader movement towards social justice and sustainability. Early interventions such as these can make an enormous difference, not just in terms of numbers but also in the overall wellbeing of communities. For instance, supporting local agriculture, education, and small businesses can create a virtuous cycle of economic growth, reducing poverty rates and improving the quality of life for numerous individuals.
“While commendation is due for Governor Idris, it is equally crucial that this example is followed by other state governors in Nigeria and other countries faced with similar challenges. A collective effort in poverty alleviation could create a more significant impact than isolated initiatives. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that social welfare programmes that incorporate direct financial support tend to be more successful in reaching vulnerable populations than those that do not. According to a study published by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), cash transfers can result in improved educational outcomes, health status, and overall economic stability for beneficiaries
“It is not merely a matter of financial aid; these initiatives must be sustained and expanded upon to avoid fostering dependency. The challenge lies in creating programmes that empower beneficiaries to become self-sufficient. As such, it is vital that state governors do not view poverty alleviation merely as a temporary measure but as a longer-term strategic goal that requires ongoing commitment and innovative solutions.
“An investment in poverty alleviation is also an investment in the broader social fabric of a community. When individuals are provided with the financial means to support themselves and their families, it leads to enhanced social cohesion and community development. Families that struggle to make ends meet are often unable to afford contributions towards local economies, which leads to stagnation. Conversely, when people have access to resources, they contribute to community stores, local markets, and other communal enterprises. This form of economic circulation can help invigorate regional economies.
“Furthermore, educational attainment becomes increasingly accessible when families are not burdened by poverty. Education is a crucial determinant of future economic stability and social mobility. With targeted financial support, parents are more likely to send their children to school, which is vital for breaking the cycle of poverty. As illustrated by research from the World Bank, there is a significant correlation between poverty alleviation and educational attainment, suggesting that initiatives such as those introduced by Governor Idris can lead to lasting changes in the socio-economic landscape
“Focusing on economic sustainability is another essential dimension of Governor Nasir Idris’s initiative. The distribution of funds provides the immediate relief needed for many families, but it can also be a springboard for long-term economic strategies. By using direct cash transfers to empower individuals, there is a potential for enhanced local entrepreneurship. Small business ownership plays a pivotal role in economic development, particularly in regions plagued by poverty. With financial support, the people of Kebbi State have the opportunity to start their ventures, thus driving innovation and economic growth within their communities.
“Moreover, this strategy is pertinent in promoting Financial Inclusion, which has been cited as one of the critical elements for sustainable development. A report from the Central Bank of Nigeria outlines the importance of inclusive financial systems in reducing poverty and inequality. By ensuring that low-income individuals have access to financial resources and banking, there is a greater chance for socio-economic stability”.
Africa Security Investigation News 