CISLAC Commends ICPC for Investigating Alleged ₦90 Billion Fraud in Hajj Subsidies

Bilkisu Adejoh

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has praised the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for launching an investigation into the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) over allegations of misappropriating ₦90 billion in Hajj subsidies.

In a recent statement, the ICPC revealed that several NAHCON officials were arrested on Wednesday after they failed to respond to an invitation from the anti-graft agency.

The spokesperson for the ICPC, Demola Bakare, clarified the situation, saying, “We are investigating officials of the National Hajj Commission because they either failed or refused to honour the invitation. We, therefore, paid them a friendly visit.”

CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, expressed deep concern over reports of widespread misappropriation of funds during this year’s Hajj.

Rafsanjani emphasized that many pilgrims received substandard services despite the significant government subsidies allocated for their welfare.

“We commend the ICPC’s efforts to expose this monumental fraud and urge them to ensure that corruption is rooted out of our public institutions,” Rafsanjani stated.

As the head of Transparency International Nigeria (TI-Nigeria), Rafsanjani highlighted the pervasive impact of corruption on the nation’s socio-economic well-being.

He noted that persistent fraud and institutional failures have played a significant role in the deepening poverty crisis in Nigeria.

“The level of fraud and disregard for institutional integrity have plunged millions of Nigerians into abject poverty while a few individuals amass wealth at the expense of the general populace,” he lamented.

He referenced recent statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), which indicate that over 133 million Nigerians are currently living in multidimensional poverty.

He further argued that the diversion of public funds meant for the welfare of citizens has only worsened the nation’s socio-economic challenges.

CISLAC Boss called on the ICPC to continue its efforts to eradicate corruption from public institutions, pointing to Nigeria’s low ranking on the 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index as a clear indicator of the urgent need for reform.

As the investigation unfolds, CISLAC reiterated its stance against corruption, urging for immediate reforms to restore integrity within public institutions.

Minister of Defence Commends Ogun State Governor for Land Donation to Nigerian Navy

Emmanuel Daudu

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Adedapo Abiodun, for his significant contribution to national security through the donation of 100,000 hectares of land to the Nigerian Navy.

The land, located within the Olokola Free Trade Zone along the Bight of Benin, is set to become a Forward Operating Base (FOB) for the Navy, enhancing its operational presence and capabilities in the region.

The Director, Information and Public Relations for the Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, in a statement signed and made available to journalists on Tuesday, said Dr. Matawalle praised the Governor’s commitment to bolstering the nation’s security, highlighting that such support from state governments is crucial in the collective effort to safeguard the country.

“This donation is a testament to Governor Abiodun’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Armed Forces. It reflects a profound dedication to the security and development of Nigeria, particularly in the South-West region,” Dr. Matawalle stated.

The Minister also called on other state governments to follow Ogun State’s example by collaborating with and supporting the Armed Forces in their efforts to combat insecurity nationwide.

Dr. Matawalle reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to partnering with state governments and other stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace and security across Nigeria.

The Minister’s remarks underscore the importance of state-level contributions to national defense, emphasizing that such partnerships are vital for ensuring a safe and secure environment for all Nigerians.

PFAN President Tijani Babangida Appeals for Unity Among Nigerian Players’ Union, Expresses Gratitude to Roda JC Alumni

Maryam Aminu

Former Super Eagles winger and current President of the Professional Footballers Association of Nigeria (PFAN), Tijani Babangida, has called on former footballers in Nigeria to set aside their differences and unite.

Babangida emphasized that only through collective effort can they achieve their goals and aspirations.

His appeal came in the wake of a personal tragedy. The PFAN President was recently involved in a horrific car accident that claimed the lives of his younger brother, Ibrahim, and his son, Fadeel. His wife, who was also injured in the accident, is currently recovering in an European hospital, thanks to the efforts of former players from Roda JC, a Dutch football club where Babangida once played.

In a gesture of solidarity, these former Roda JC players not only facilitated his wife’s treatment but also hosted a “Get Well” dinner for Babangida.

During the dinner, they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting him and his family until they fully recover.

Babangida, who is affectionately known as “TJ” by his admirers, praised the unity among the former Roda JC players, stating that such solidarity is what should be expected from players’ unions.

“This is what players must do; players must be there for each other during and after football because they have become one family,” Babangida said, reflecting on the supportive spirit he experienced.

He further expressed his hope to see a similar spirit of generosity and support among Nigerian footballers, both current and former.

“We cannot wait for outsiders to support and assist us all the time. We must put programs in place to support ourselves, just as it is done in Europe and other advanced countries. Each generation of players must watch out for themselves and establish programs they can rely on.”

Babangida also warned against infighting within the players’ union, stating, “We will gain nothing by fighting ourselves; we can only gain if we come together to support each other. This is my prayer, and this is what I will pursue when I return to Nigeria.”

Babangida further expressed deep gratitude to the former players of Roda JC, saying, “Words are not enough to express how grateful I am. I am seriously overwhelmed and grateful.”

Babangida’s call for unity comes at a crucial time, as the PFAN seeks to strengthen its ranks and better serve the needs of Nigerian footballers both on and off the pitch.

PFAN president, Tijani Babangida thanks Roda JC former players, begs Nigeria players Union to unite

Former Nigeria Super Eagles winger, Tijani Babangida has urged former footballers in Nigeria to put aside their differences and work together noting that it is only through that they can achieve their goals and aspirations.

The PFAN president who was recently in the news when he was involved in a ghastly motor accident which resulted in the death of his younger brother Ibrahim and his son Fadeel, and his wife still recovering in a European hospital courtesy the efforts of the former Players of Roda JC of Holland noted that it was only possible because of the unity among the former players.

And as a way to make him more relaxed and take his mind away from the accident, the former players also hosted him to a GET WELL DINNER. They reiterated their commitment to ensuring total support for Tijani Babangida and wife until full recovery.

TJ as he is most called by his admirers stressed that this is what is expected of players Union rather than fighting for what does not matter at all. In their own words; “this is what players must do, players must be there for each other during and after football because they have become one family as a result’.

Tijani Babangida who was filled with gratitude noted that his desire is to see such a generous and supportive spirit among Nigeria players both current and former players.

“We cannot wait for outsiders to support and assist us all the time. We must put programs in place to support ourselves just as it is here in Europe and other advanced countries. Each generation of players must watch out for themselves, put programs in place that they can easily fall back to.

“We will gain nothing fighting ourselves, we can only gain if we come together to support ourselves. This is my prayer and this is what I will pursue when I return to Nigeria,”

Tijani Babangida stated that words are not enough to express how grateful he is to the former players of Roda JC of Holland. “I am seriously overwhelmed and grateful,” he concluded.

FG Partners with NITDA to Train Over 30 Million Youth in Digital Literacy

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing digital literacy training to over 30 million Nigerian youth.

This major announcement was made by the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, during an interview in Abuja in celebration of International Youth Day.

Represented by Prince Momoh Olugbenga, the Director of Enterprise Development and Promotion, Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the importance of equipping young Nigerians with essential digital skills to thrive in the global digital economy.

She emphasized that this initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering the youth with the knowledge and tools needed to fully participate in the digital landscape.

The Minister also noted that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has introduced a volunteer community known as Digital Onboarders, through an ongoing partnership with Mind The Gap Nigeria. This community is dedicated to enhancing youth productivity by developing their digital skills.

“President Bola Tinubu is keenly aware of the growing importance of the digital economy, he has dedicated a Ministry to coordinate efforts in this area. Our Ministry has been actively seeking partnerships and opportunities to connect as many youth as possible to the learning experiences that will equip them for success in the digital economy.” She said

Dr. Ibrahim also addressed the challenge of youth unemployment, noting that an estimated 75% of job seekers would have better chances of securing employment in the evolving Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.

However, she pointed out that MSMEs are facing a decline in survival rates due to a lack of relevant skills to leverage the emerging opportunities in the digital economy.

To address this, the Ministry has launched the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), a platform designed to equip young people with the skills necessary to participate actively in salvaging businesses and tapping into the opportunities within the country’s Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) market.

The theme of this year’s International Youth Day is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”

CDS General Chris Musa Praised for Innovative Public Information Management Amid Hunger Protests

Emmanuel Daudu

In the wake of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, marked by unsettling events that have disrupted daily life, the country’s military and security agencies have been lauded for their exemplary performance in maintaining peace and safety.

Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Chris Musa has been particularly praised for his innovative approach to public information management, which has played a critical role in addressing the recent hunger protests.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project, led by Hon. (Elder) Ayodele Thomas, commended General Musa’s introduction of the “High Profile Public Information Processing and Management Thrust,” a new initiative aimed at enhancing transparency and direct communication with the public.

Through regular media briefings by security agency heads and service chiefs at the Defense Headquarters, Nigerians are kept informed of ongoing efforts to restore normalcy, thereby fostering a stronger sense of security and trust in the nation’s armed forces.

The protests, which have been linked to various internal and external factors, were handled with professionalism by the military and security forces. Their efforts in identifying the protests’ sponsors and uncovering underlying motives have been recognized as crucial to maintaining national stability. This has renewed public confidence in the armed forces, with many citizens now fully supporting the military and security agencies under General Musa’s leadership.

In a statement, the Defence Support Advocacy Project also extended special appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights, including the right to protest.

The organization acknowledged the President’s wise choice in appointing General Chris Musa as the CDS during this critical period, highlighting his dedication to democracy, rule of law, and national unity.

The statement called on all Nigerians, particularly the youth, to support President Tinubu and his security chiefs in their efforts to protect lives and property and to work together towards a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Elder Thomas also emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and urged all sectors of society to collaborate with General Musa and his team through strategic consultations, meetings, and discussions to strengthen national unity and resilience.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project appealed to the organizers of the hunger protests to present their demands in a peaceful and orderly manner.

The organization warned that remaining faceless could lead to misunderstandings and hinder conflict resolution efforts.

Hon. (Elder) Ayodele Thomas expressed his gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the service chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service for their professional leadership during this challenging time.

FRSC says over 189,256 drivers licences awaiting collection nationwide

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has responded to a media publication regarding the delay in issuing National Driver’s Licences across the country.

Olusegun Ogungbemide, Corps Public Education and Strategic Communication Officer (CPESCO), said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

Ogungbemide, who applauded the media platform for its watchdog role, said it was pertinent to correct some of the misconceptions conveyed in the publication.

This, he said, was to avert misleading the general public on what had actually hampered the smooth production of the National Driver’s Licence.

“The attention of the FRSC has been adequately drawn to an article published by The Sun Newspaper today, 11 August.

“To state the obvious fact and correct the misinformation stated in the above-quoted article, it is pertinent to say that at no time did the FRSC blame anyone in the tripartite regarding the driver’s licence issue.

“This is because the Corps does not believe in apportioning blame, but is keenly interested in getting the system to work for quality service delivery and customer satisfaction,” he said.

Ogungbemide said the entire processes surrounding the production of the national driver’s licence were delicate.

This, he said, was due to the intelligence and data-gathering ability of the scheme, adding that the Corps had to subject the entire system to a comprehensive overhaul.

He said, however, the efforts needed time to be brought to perfection.

“On assumption of office in May 2024, one of the priority areas the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, committed his administrative energy to, was the total revamp of the national driver’s licence production.

To nip the problem in the bud, he visited the production plant to have an on-the-spot assessment of the issues militating against the smooth flow of production.

“Aftermath of that visit revived the system and brought the plant up to speed.”

He said that the identified issues were decisively dealt with, fixed and production resumed in full force, pursuant to his directive for the plant to commence 24-hour production.

“Due to that intervention, the Corps can categorically state that every issue affecting the smooth running of the plant is being resolved.

“As at today, over 189,256 licences have been produced and are awaiting collection at various State Boards of Internal Revenue across the country,” he said.

Ogungbemide quoted the FRSC Corps Marshal as reassuring that, in line with his policy thrust, the integrity of the licence process would be upheld at all times to sustain international acceptability.

He admonished applicants awaiting their licences to proceed to their respective states for collection as the Corps continue its quest to clear the backlog.

Senator J.O.Es Mea Culpa: A Promise for Redemption

By Oru Leonard 

As the curtain fell on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Nigeria’s Sports Development Minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, stood before the nation with a heavy heart. The country’s performance, he acknowledged, had fallen woefully short of expectations.

With a deep sense of responsibility, Nigeria’s Sports Development Minister Senator John Owan Enoh (JOE), apologised to Nigerians, his voice laced with regret. “We should have done better,” he conceded. “Our objectives, hopes, and dreams were left unfulfilled.”

But amidst the disappointment, the Minister refused to shy away from the challenges that lay ahead. He reflected on the daunting task he faced when assuming office in August 2023 – four international competitions, including the Olympics, in a matter of months.

Preparations for the Games, he revealed, had not begun when he took the helm. Undeterred, Senator Enoh rallied his team, and together, they worked tirelessly to make up for lost time.

Recall that in line with the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda made Sports Development a stand alone ministry in recognition there recognising sports a sector that should be considered in the scheme of  national consideration for economic gains for the country. The President is few months above one and his Minister’s are just one year in office.

Though the Olympic dreams remained elusive, the Minister’s eyes were fixed on the future. The Paralympic Games, scheduled for August 28 to September 8, offered a chance for redemption.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Senator Enoh vowed to learn from the mistakes of the past. “We will regroup, recharge, and come back stronger,” he promised. The journey to redemption had begun, and Nigerians, though disappointed, held onto hope.

END

Oru Leonard Oru (frpa, mnim), is the CEO of Oru Media & Associates, Media, Advertising and Business Development Practitioner.

Oru Media & Associates are the publishers of News News Dot Africa online Newspapers

Dr. Katherine Walton appointed USA Country Reps for the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization

By Maryam Aminu

Dr. Katherine Walton has been appointed as the United States of America’s Country Representative for the World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, worldsdgs.org. As the country representative, she has been urged to work within the framework of the 17 SDGs and collaborate with the US government to achieve sustainable development in the country.

The SDGs are a set of global goals adopted by all United Nations member States in 2015. They aim to address various social, economic, and environmental challenges faced by the world, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Dr. Katherine’s role as the USA Country Representative will involve raising awareness about the SDGs, promoting their implementation, and fostering partnerships between different stakeholders, including the government, civil society organizations, politicians, business tycoons and the private sector.

Furthermore, Prof. Katherine will be expected to work closely with the US government to align national policies and strategies with the SDGs. This collaboration will ensure that the USA progresses towards sustainable development by integrating the goals into national agendas and decision-making processes.

By assuming this position, Dr Katherine has a significant responsibility to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development in the USA. The appointment reflects her expertise and dedication to the field, and it is hoped that her efforts, with the support of various stakeholders, will lead to positive and transformative change in the country.

According to the letter of appointment signed by the Global Chairman, Board of Trustees, World Sustainable Development Goals Organization, Chief Samson Adeosun, the Global Secretary-General, Advisory Council, H.E. Wajdi Aref Moukarim and the Founder, H.E. Emmanuel Huleji Daudu, Dr. Katherine was urged to take her new office seriously and ensure that her quarter is contributed in impacting positively on lives within her scope of duty in the USA.

The letter, giving details on the aims and objectives of the organization, disclosed that the international NGO is aimed at promoting development and economic goals in all the UN member nations.
“To work within the scope of the I 7goals of Sustainable Development Goals within the member nations of UN which are: end poverty, end hunger, ensure healthy lives and promote well-being, ensure quality education, achieve gender equality, ensure sustainable water and sanitation, ensure reliable energy, promote economic growth, build resilient infrastructure, foster innovative and infrastructure, reduce inequality within and among countries, ensure sustainable consumption and production pattern, combat climate change, conserved and sustainable use of oceans, seas, marine resources for sustainable development.
“To empower youths globally with sustainable skill: focusing on youth development, gender and environmental sustainability.

“To support the adopted global goals (Sustainable Development Goals) to end poverty, protect the plant, and ensure prosperity for all across all UN member nations

” To inspire and educate youths and women to actively contribute to improving local and global issues affecting development on education, sustainability, health, environment and peacebuilding.

“To encourage purposeful leadership for the development of the people and society.

“To foster global development through integrated approach towards the Challenges facing development globally: good health, food, shelter, poverty alleviation, quality education, environment, peacebuilding, child abuse and human trafficking, youth and women empowerment and mentoring

While congratulating Dr. Katherine Walton on her new appointment, the signatories to the 23 pages of the appointment letter have this to say, “Congratulations on your appointment. This is indeed a remarkable achievement and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and expertise in the field of sustainable development.

“Your new role as the country Representative carries immense responsibility, as you will be at the forefront of promoting and advocating for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in the USA. With your wealth of knowledge and experience, we have no doubt that you will excel in this position and make significant contributions towards addressing the pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges facing the country.

“Your appointment serves as an inspiration to all of us who believe in the urgency and importance of sustainable development. Your passion and commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the USA and its people.

“We are confident that you will use your leadership skills to effectively engage with stakeholders, collaborate with government agencies, and mobilize resources towards sustainable development initiatives. Your efforts will further strengthen the USA’s commitment to the global sustainable development agenda and undoubtedly bring about positive change in the lives of its citizens.

“Once again, congratulations on this well-deserved appointment. May this new role be a rewarding and fulfilling journey for you, and may you continue to be a beacon of inspiration for others. Your contribution towards sustainable development in the USA is invaluable, and we are excited to see the positive impact you will bring.”

CDS General Chris Musa Praised for Innovative Public Information Management Amid Hunger Protests

Emmanuel Daudu

In the wake of Nigeria’s ongoing challenges, marked by unsettling events that have disrupted daily life, the country’s military and security agencies have been lauded for their exemplary performance in maintaining peace and safety.

Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Chris Musa has been particularly praised for his innovative approach to public information management, which has played a critical role in addressing the recent hunger protests.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project, led by Hon. (Elder) Ayodele Thomas, commended General Musa’s introduction of the “High Profile Public Information Processing and Management Thrust,” a new initiative aimed at enhancing transparency and direct communication with the public.

Hon. Thomas noted that through regular media briefings by security agency heads and service chiefs at the Defense Headquarters, Nigerians are kept informed of ongoing efforts to restore normalcy, thereby fostering a stronger sense of security and trust in the nation’s armed forces.

He added that the protests, which have been linked to various internal and external factors, were handled with professionalism by the military and security forces. Their efforts in identifying the protests’ sponsors and uncovering underlying motives have been recognized as crucial to maintaining national stability. This has renewed public confidence in the armed forces, with many citizens now fully supporting the military and security agencies under General Musa’s leadership.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project also extended special appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights, including the right to protest.

The organization acknowledged the President’s wise choice in appointing General Chris Musa as the CDS during this critical period, highlighting his dedication to democracy, rule of law, and national unity.

Hon. Thomas called on all Nigerians, particularly the youth, to support President Tinubu and his security chiefs in their efforts to protect lives and property and to work together towards a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

He further emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and urged all sectors of society to collaborate with General Musa and his team through strategic consultations, meetings, and discussions to strengthen national unity and resilience.

The Defence Support Advocacy Project appealed to the organizers of the hunger protests to present their demands in a peaceful and orderly manner.

The organization warned that remaining faceless could lead to misunderstandings and hinder conflict resolution efforts.

Hon. (Elder) Ayodele Thomas expressed his gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, the service chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service for their professional leadership during this challenging time.