In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, the Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, has revealed that the restructured Nigeria Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) will start accepting applications this month.
This initiative aims to provide young entrepreneurs with financial support for their innovative ideas.
The announcement was made during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch B Stream I corps members at the NYSC orientation camp in Paiko, Niger State.
Dr. Ibrahim in a statement by the Director Press and Public Ralations emphasized that the NYIF would streamline the application process to facilitate young entrepreneurs in transforming their business visions into reality, thereby contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Recalling a groundbreaking initiative announced in May 2024, Dr. Ibrahim highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering at least 5,000 NYSC members with up to ten million naira each for entrepreneurial ventures upon completing their service.
She reiterated that this move is expected to boost economic growth and sustainability.
“We are also launching the National Youth Skills Programme (NYSP) this month,” Dr. Ibrahim added. “This program aims to train over one million young Nigerians across various fields such as technology and agriculture. The NYSP offers a remarkable opportunity to enhance employability and prepare for successful careers, aligning with the evolving demands of the job market.”
The Minister encouraged corps members to seize these opportunities, noting the rapid changes in the world and the importance of the skills they acquire now for their future success.
She advised them to leverage the NYIF for their business ideas and actively participate in the NYSP to develop a well-rounded skill set during their NYSC year.
In his address, Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State announced that his administration would offer automatic employment to corps members in the medical and health fields who are willing to work in the state, aiming to improve healthcare delivery services.
Governor Bago also disclosed that the state government has allocated five billion naira for constructing a permanent orientation camp for the National Youth Service Corps in Niger State.
Nana Kobina Nketsia V, Paramount Chief of Essikado, has disclosed that Hon Joe Ghartey, the Member of Parliament for Essikado Ketan has displayed self-discipline since inception into public responsibility
He noted that since Hon Joe Ghartey entered public life in 2005, he has conducted himself with dignity and integrity. Nana Kobina Nketsia said this when Hon Joe Ghartey led a group to his residency to present support to the victims of the recent Ngersia fire outbreak. Nana Nketsia said it was not all those who carried the title ‘Honourable’ who deserved the title. He said some people so abused their public office that they did not deserve the title honourable.
He continued that such people did not only bring themselves to shame, but also the people who they represent, their ancestors and generations yet to be borne.
He said he knew Hon Joe Ghartey’s ancestors and was not surprised about his character. Nana Kobina Nkestia said the new position Hon Joe Ghartey had been given as Board Chair of Ghana Revenue Authority was a difficult one but he prayed that once again Hon Ghartey will conduct himself with integrity as he had done as Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, as Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament and as Minister for Railways Development. Nana Nketsia said this when Hon Joe Ghartey led GRA to support the victims of the fire incident.
Experienced lawyer and Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan Constituency, Hon. Joe Ghartey, has been sworn in as the Chair of the Governing Board of the Ghana Revenue Authority, GRA.
As the Chair of the Governing Board, Hon. Joe Ghartey will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction to the GRA. He will work closely with the management team and staff of the GRA to ensure effective tax administration and revenue collection in Ghana.
Hon. Joe Ghartey brings a wealth of experience to this role. He has served as a lawyer for over 30 years and has extensive knowledge in corporate and commercial law. He has also served as the Minister for Railways Development and as the Attorney General and Minister for Justice in Ghana.
In addition to his legal expertise, Hon. Joe Ghartey has a strong background in public service. He has been the Member of Parliament for the Essikado-Ketan Constituency since 2004 and has held various leadership positions in Parliament.
His appointment as the Chair of the GRA is expected to strengthen the authority’s governance structure and contribute to the government’s efforts in revenue mobilization for national development.
Hon. Joe Ghartey’s vast experience in law, public service, and leadership will undoubtedly be valuable in his new role as the Chair of the Governing Board of the GRA. His appointment reflects the government’s commitment to appointing competent individuals to key positions to enhance revenue collection and promote good governance in Ghana.
His oath of office was administered by the Minister of Finance, Hon. Mohammed Amin Anta in Accra on Wednesday, May 22, 2024.
Hon. Ghartey, a legal luminary, joins GRA after serving Ghana in various capacities over the years. He has served the country as Attorney General Minister of Justice under former President John Agyekum Kufuor. He served as Minister of Railways Development during the first term of President Akufo-Addo from 2017 till 2021. Hon. Ghartey, a respected law lecturer is a former Second Deputy Speaker of Parliament and currently the longest serving Member of Parliament for Essikado-Ketan Constituency in the Western Region.
The new GRA Board Chair is a devoted Christian and married to one of Ghana’s finest female lawyers, Madam Efua Ghartey.
Commenting on his appointment, Hon. Ghartey expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve my country, “and I thank the President, H. E Nana Addo Danquah Akuffo Addo for this nomination.”
“Following the swearing-in, our maiden Board meeting was held at the GRA Headquarters in Accra. I am very encouraged from the interaction with the Director General and the Commissioners and their Deputies. The Board is raring to go, and we are confident God will be our guide,” he said.
The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammad Bello Shehu, has called for enhanced cooperation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to address revenue leakages and ensure the recovery of unremitted government funds.
Shehu, during a courtesy visit to EFCC Chairman emphasized the need for collaboration in enforcement, intelligence gathering, and data sharing related to government revenue.
“We are calling on EFCC for more collaboration, not only in the area of enforcement but also intelligence gathering and data sharing with respect to government revenue from any source,” Shehu stated.
Shehu highlighted the importance of the partnership, noting its impact on previous recovery exercises.
RMAFC Boss also requested EFCC’s support in capacity building for RMAFC staff, particularly in forensic investigation.
The Chairman criticized the practice of Revenue Generating Agencies, or Government Owned Enterprises, spending generated revenue and remitting the balance to the Consolidated Revenue Fund .
Group photograph of delegates lead by the Chairman RMAFC and their host EFCC
He argued that this practice contradicts the constitutional mandate requiring all revenues to be paid into the Federation Account.
Reflecting on past collaborations, Shehu recounted a successful joint effort in 2013 that recovered N74 billion in unremitted and under-remitted revenues from banks.
He also noted a more recent effort from 2021, which, in partnership with EFCC, recovered over N216 billion from the public and oil sectors.
In response, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede underscored the need for transparency and accountability in government revenue management.
He called for a review of the revenue generation system to identify and close loopholes.
“There are things we have been able to do together within the scopes of our mandate and your mandate as well,” Olukoyede said.
“Transparency and accountability should be embedded in our public life as a nation. That’s the only way we can move forward.”
Olukoyede also stressed the importance of systemic changes to prevent corruption and inefficiencies, advocating for a focus on improving the systems that govern revenue generation and appropriation.
He urged support for the President’s efforts to reposition the country, emphasizing the role of both agencies in achieving this goal.
Both Chairmen agreed to enhance collaboration to ensure proper management of government revenue and promote accountability in the conduct of government business
By Maryam Aminu
The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Muhammad Bello Shehu, has called for enhanced cooperation with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to address revenue leakages and ensure the recovery of unremitted government funds.
Shehu, during a courtesy visit to EFCC Chairman emphasized the need for collaboration in enforcement, intelligence gathering, and data sharing related to government revenue.
“We are calling on EFCC for more collaboration, not only in the area of enforcement but also intelligence gathering and data sharing with respect to government revenue from any source,” Shehu stated.
Shehu highlighted the importance of the partnership, noting its impact on previous recovery exercises.
RMAFC Boss also requested EFCC’s support in capacity building for RMAFC staff, particularly in forensic investigation.
The Chairman criticized the practice of Revenue Generating Agencies, or Government Owned Enterprises (GOE), spending generated revenue and remitting the balance to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).
He argued that this practice contradicts the constitutional mandate requiring all revenues to be paid into the Federation Account.
Reflecting on past collaborations, Shehu recounted a successful joint effort in 2013 that recovered N74 billion in unremitted and under-remitted revenues from banks.
He also noted a more recent effort from 2021, which, in partnership with EFCC, recovered over N216 billion from the public and oil sectors.
In response, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede underscored the need for transparency and accountability in government revenue management.
He called for a review of the revenue generation system to identify and close loopholes.
“There are things we have been able to do together within the scopes of our mandate and your mandate as well,” Olukoyede said.
“Transparency and accountability should be embedded in our public life as a nation. That’s the only way we can move forward.”
Olukoyede also stressed the importance of systemic changes to prevent corruption and inefficiencies, advocating for a focus on improving the systems that govern revenue generation and appropriation.
He urged support for the President’s efforts to reposition the country, emphasizing the role of both agencies in achieving this goal.
Both Chairmen agreed to enhance collaboration to ensure proper management of government revenue and promote accountability in the conduct of government business
…Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Commends WSDGOs On Appointment, Expresses Happiness.
…VC CUICI, USA Promises Positive Contributions To WSDGOs Group’s Objectives
UNESCO Laureate & World Grand President, International Chartered World Learned Society (ICWLS), United States of America, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has commended the global Leadership of World Sustainable Development Goals Organizations (WSDGOs) an official partner of United Nations on his appointment as the Global Secretary General & Board of Trustees of World Sustainable Development Goals Organization (Global Board of Trustees) as he expresses happiness over his recognition by the global SDGs group.
The media learnt this today being on Wednesday, June 3, 2024 in a press statement personally signed by Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu, the World Vice-chancellor Crown University Int’l Chartered Inc., USA, 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 UNESCO Laureate Commends WSDGOs’ Global Founder, Emmanuel Huleji Daudu, group’s Global Secretary General, Advisory Council, H.E Wajdi Aref Moukarim on appointment.
World Sustainable Development Goals Organizations (WSDGOs) was established under the United Nations Article 7in the UN Charter in 1945 to support the UN Initiative in dealing with humanitarian issues, UN Global Goals, issues of crisis, conflict resolution and the 17 Global Goals founded and domiciled in the United Nations (UN 2015 Conventions).
The appointment letter that UNESCO Laureate, Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as signed by WSDGOs’ Global Founder, Emmanuel Huleji Daudu & Global Secretary General, Advisory Council, H.E Aref Moukarim reads in parts: “I’m thrilled to inform you that you have been appointed as the Global Secretary-General, Board of Trustees as approved by the apex bodies of this organization (WSDGOs)”.
“As the Global Secretary-General, Board of Trustees you will be responsible for monitoring the organization’s adherence to the laws abd regulations of the organization as well as adopt policies and procedures to create a culture of legal and ethical standards that will guide all aspects of this organization”.
Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu in a release reacted as he commended the laudable appointment as Secretary General, Board of Trustees of WSDGOs, while he promises positive contributions towards the growth and development towards the achievements of the global SDGs organization’s objectives.
The statement by Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu reads in parts:”I, UNESCO Laureate Commends the Leadership of WSDGOs on this laudable appointment as the Global Secretary-General, Board of Trustees of this UN SDGs group. I promise to make positive impacts towards the achievements of our group’s objectives”.
“The confidence and responsibility and most importantly the monitoring and regulatory functions as bestowed on me will not be taken for granted as I will work hard and in togetherness we shall achieve our global objectives”.
“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. CUICI VC.
“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”.
Abuja,July 2, 2024, The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) has urged the Federal Government to step down plans of providing funds to State Governors for the purchase and distribution of food to households.
This call is in collaboration with the United Nations Economic and Social Council UN (ECOSOC)
Country Director, (IHRC-RFT) Amb. Abdullahi Adamu noted this in a statement he personally signed Tuesday in Abuja.
According to the statement , the available food in Nigeria currently is insufficient, therefore, injecting large sums of money into the market to purchase food could significantly increase food prices, exacerbating the existing inflation in food prices.
“Among other reasons are price inflation on food , substantial funds allocated for food purchases can create artificial demand, leading to price hikes and further inflation.
The statement noted that this would worsen the economic condition of many Nigerians who are already struggling with high living costs.
It further stressed the need for sustainable solutions ,stating that while the intention of providing emergency aid is commendable, they believe that long-term and sustainable solutions are crucial for effectively addressing food scarcity.
“These solutions it said, includes supporting local agriculture, improving food supply chains, and enhancing food production capacity.
“We respectfully urge the government to reconsider this approach for the following reasons.
“Investment in Agriculture: and redirecting funds towards boosting domestic food production, providing support to farmers, and investing in modern agricultural technology can ensure sustainable food security in the long term.
Also, strengthening food Supply Chains, enhancing the efficiency of food supply chains, reducing wastage, and improving storage facilities will ensure that the available food reaches those who need it most.
The group also highlighted “targeted direct assistance programs among interventions that can effectively reach the population in urgent need of assistance.
“Implementing targeted direct assistance programs for those in dire need, such as direct cash transfers or food vouchers, can provide immediate relief without disrupting market dynamics.
“We commend the Federal government’s efforts to tackle food insecurity and understand the complexities involved in making such critical decisions.
“However, we firmly believe that reconsidering this approach is essential to avoid adverse economic impacts and to ensure that the intended aid reaches those in need effectively.
“IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter emphasizes that this advice aligns with key principles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), particularly.
‘We work with local and international partners to improve lives and ensure adherence to human rights laws world-wide.
“We remain ready to support the Federal Government’s efforts and are keen to collaborate on finding sustainable solutions to enhance food security in Nigeria.”it stated.
The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) is an international organization dedicated to protecting human rights and providing assistance to the vulnerable and those in crisis(NAN)
….Says those plotting against him are unpatriotic Politicians with entitlement mentality
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has reaffirmed the unwavering support of the Northern region for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, stressing that the President’s commitment to the region’s development and security is unshakeable.
According to a press release signed on the 2nd of July, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe Director ( Information and Public Relations), Dr. Matawalle’s statement comes amidst attempts by some politicians to undermine the President’s leadership, citing his style of governance as a reason. However, the Minister dismissed these attempts as mere power play by unpatriotic politicians with an entitlement mentality.
The Minister highlighted the numerous benefits the North has derived from President Tinubu’s administration, including strategic appointments and infrastructural development.
He listed several key appointments held by Northerners, including himself as Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar as Minister of Defence, and others in key ministries which includes but not limited to: Muhammed Idris – Minister of Information and National orientation
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare – Ali Pate
Minister of Agriculture and food security -Abubakar kyari
Minister of Youths- Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim
Minister of Foreign Affairs – Yusuf Tuggar
Minister of Budget and Economic planning – Atiku Bagudu
Minister of Water resources and sanitation – Joseph utsve
Minister of Steel development – Shuaibu Audu
Minister of State, Agriculture – Sabi Abdullahi
Minister of Special duties – Zephaniah Jisalo Minister of Education Tahir Maman SAN Minister of State Education Yusuf sununu Minister of Police affairs Ibrahim Geidam Minister of State Police Affairs Hon imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim Minister of State water Resources Bello Goronto Minister of Housing and urban development Ahmed Dangiwa Minister of State Housing and urban Development Abdullahi Gwarzo National Security Adviser
Director- General DSS Director-General NIA Chief of Defence Staff
Chief of Air Staff Group managing Director NNPCL MD NPA just to mention a few.
According to Dr. Matawalle, from the aformentioned list, he called on the Northern political leaders to allow Tinubu ample time to get Nigeria’s economy back on track.
As the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle is playing a crucial role in actualizing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate on security.
He emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to security, citing his efforts in the defence sector, including strategic policy development, counter-terrorism initiatives, capacity building, community engagement, regional security cooperation, humanitarian support, oversight, and coordination.
The Minister called on Northern political leaders to unite behind President Tinubu, to enable him implement his Renewed Hope Agenda and salvage the nation’s economy and politics.
He highlighted Mr. President’s love and commitment to the North, by listing the many benefits of having President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria pointing out many juicy political posts are being handled by Northerners compared to other regions of the country.
Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle is one of the ardent supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration saying that no amount of political gang up can unseat the President, and no amount of blackmail can stop him from contesting for the Presidential election come 2027.
To him, the alleged move, by some selfish Northern Politicians masquerading as oracle for the North is just mere power play by some unpatriotic northern politician without grassroot base.
Speaking on the the defence sector which he is handling, he said there was hope at the end of the tunnel as the President is committed to tackle the security situation head on.
“Let us unite around President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to salvage our battered economy and politics. This campaign of some selected Northern Politicians that are uncomfortable with the President’s style of governance are advised to join hands with the President in his Renewed Hope Agenda of moving the country to a prosperous and secured nation.
Based on an Intelligence tip-off the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Commandant General Special Intelligence Squad (CG’S SIS) has arrested 3 Suspects in connection with the vandalism of an oil pipeline, operation of an illegal local refinery and other miscellaneous offences at Nwanko, Asa/Umuelechi swampy forest Ukwa Local Government Area of Abia State.
According to a press release signed on 2nd of July, 2024 by CSC Babawale Afolabi National Public Relations Officer, NSCDC National Headquarters Abuja, disclosed that the CG’S SIS Commander, Deputy Commandant Appolos Dandaura hinted that the preliminary interviews conducted on the suspects at the crime scene revealed their levels of involvement of which more light would be thrown during our investigation.
From the confessional statements volunteered the Suspects admitted to the crime blaming it on economic hardship. The names of the suspects are Ajagbo Joseph (M) ’24yrs- an indigene of Isoko North LGA, Delta State. Adoration Ebuka Chucku (M) 26yrs’, from Ihiala LGA, Anambra State and Moses Michael 43yrs (M) an indigene of Ekrimor LGA, Bayelsa State.
The following exhibits were sighted at the crime scene: Several iron plates extracted from drums to be used in constructing local cooking ovens Power Generating Set used by the welders, Inverter Welding Machine, Welding Filing Machine, Large quantities of stolen crude oil, Jerrycans, Buckets, Hoses and metal pipes, Shovels and Welding Electrolytes.
“At the end of our investigation, the suspects would have their time in the court of competent jurisdiction even as the Corps’has avowed to clamp down on economic saboteurs across the board”.
Prince Victor Alobari, a prominent member of the Rivers State community, A traditional Crown Prince and an activist and former youth leader of the Nigerian Youth Congress has thrown weight behind the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara amidst political misunderstanding with his predecessor.
The crowned Prince made this known during an exclusive interview with journalists in Porth Harcourt on the 5th of May, 2024
He stressed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara has achieved alot within a few months in office and should be given more support instead of political distractions.
Prince Victor Alobari, a respected figure in Rivers State, has long been an advocate for progress and stability within the region.
However, Prince Alobari believed that for Governor Fubara to succeed more, he needs the space to focus fully on the state’s pressing problems without interference.
Alobari stated that the governor’s achievements in various sectors, such as infrastructure development, security, etc, are enormous. He highlighted the construction of new roads Mostly the Okania Ogbogoro link road that was negelected, the continuation of the Ogoni, Opobo and Andoni link road despite the dispute. “The inauguration of the 27.52km Andoni section of Ogoni-Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Unity Road, to boost transportation and business in the hinterlands is a great one and also the flagging off of the N6.7 billion Okania-Ogbogoro road project”, he specified.
According to Alobari, these achievements have positively impacted the lives of the people in Rivers State. He commended Fubara for his commitment to the development and welfare of the state’s residents urging him to be more focused in delivering the dividend of democracy to the people of his state.
Similarly, Alobari also urged stake holders , CSO, traditional rulers within and outside Rivers State to State to rally behind the governor and support his efforts in moving the state forward. He encouraged unity and collaboration among the people, emphasizing that together they can overcome the challenges facing the state.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has emphasized the importance of strategic Defence Management in Nigeria, highlighting the Ministry of Defence’s perspective.
According to a press release signed on 29th of June, 2024 by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr FCAi Fsca Fcpe , Director (Information and Public Relations), the Minister delivering a lecture titled “Strategic Defence Management in Nigeria: Ministry of Defence in Perspective” to participants of Course 32 at the National Defence College in Abuja, Minister Badaru underscored the comprehensive approach to Defence Management in Nigeria.
He emphasized that Defence Management involves various measures and approaches to protect national interests, core values, and citizen well-being.
The Minister stressed that efficient Defence Management requires thematic approaches in planning, policy formulation, military strategy implementation, and resources management. He noted that effective Defence Management hinges on strong leadership, clear communication, integrated planning, and flexible adaptability.
Badaru commended the lecture organizers and expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his unwavering support to the country’s defence, as outlined in his Renewed Hope Agenda. He acknowledged that successful Defence Management relies on government and stakeholder support.
Africa Security Investigation News 