Gov Dapo Abiodun visits slain director’s home.

Gov Dapo Abiodun visits slain director’s home.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has assured the family of the slain Director of Finance and Administration in the Governor’s Office, Mr. Taiwo Oyekanmi and the citizens that the perpetrators of the killing would be arrested and brought to justice.

He said his administration would take full responsibility for the welfare and well-being of his family.

Prince Abiodun said this when he visited the home of the deceased yesterday.

Oyekanmi was killed on Wednesday within the Abeokuta metropolis while on an official assignment. 

An emotional Governor Abiodun described the deceased as diligent, hardworking, honest and God fearing.

He said the Governor’s Office and the entire state workforce were devastated by the killing, noting that everything possible would be done to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“How could we imagine yesterday morning that we will be here this morning condoling with this family?

“We are all heavily burdened, the pain not describable. He left us asking questions since yesterday afternoon.

“Taiwo was very hardworking, very dedicated, diligent, honest, unassuming, a man who loved God, who served God, very humble. He was very conscientious.

“Let me assure you that we will do everything within my power to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to book.

“I will not leave any stone unturned until these criminals are arrested and dealt with; that much I also promise.

“I want to assure members of his family, particularly his wife and children that we will not leave you.”

“We will take full responsibility for your welfare and well-being,” Governor Abiodun said.

He said the death of Oyekanmi was a painful reminder that life was a journey, adding that the deceased lived a life of impact, touched everybody, and was well respected by everyone.

Responding on behalf of the family of the deceased, his younger brother, Tayo Oyekanmi, thanked the governor for the visit, even as he said destiny had been shattered, dreams cut short, not only in the family, but the entire Ifonyintedo community in Ipokia Local Government.

He urged the governor to unravel the people behind the killing in no distant time, to assuage the pains of the family.

Lagos to deploy 1,000 EVs by 2025, says LAMATA.

Lagos to deploy 1,000 EVs by 2025, says LAMATA.

Lagos State Government has said no fewer than 1,000 electric buses (EBs) would be deployed on the roads in the next 24 months.

Lagos Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA) said about one million passengers have boarded the Blue Line Rail, since it began commercial operation on September 4, 2023.

Disclosing this at a news conference marking the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), the Managing Director, Mrs Abimbola Akinajo, an engineer; said this is to further demonstrate the commitment of the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration to the Transportation and Traffic Management pillar of the THEMES+ agenda and to explore alternative fuel for urban mobility and improve air quality.

She said already, the government in collaboration with Oando Clean Energy Limited (OCEL), had deployed two e-vehicles (EV) to test-proof the concept and there were plans to increase this to 50 buses during the pilot phase, adding that “the plan is to increase the fleet to over 1,000 buses in the next two years.”

She said the state was also piloting the use of Clean Natural Gas (CNG) as auto fuel for its vehicles, adding that already, 10 CNG buses were being used on selected BRT corridors to test their adaptability to public transport.

She said these fits perfectly into LAMATA’s Strategic Transportation Master Plan where emission will be reduced and achieve the state’s vision to achieve net zero emission by 2050, through the deployment of eco-friendly rolling stock such as CNG, Biofuel and electric buses.

On the Lagos Urban Train Projects (LUTP), Mrs Akinajo said LAMATA had delivered on the Blue Line rail, a fully electric rail system, noting that work on civil works on the second rail project – the Red Line would be completed before the end of the year, with test running proposed to start by Quarter 1, 2024, while commercial services would begin by Quarter 2, 2024.

Mrs Akinajo, who was in company with other top management officials of the agency, among who were the Director of Rail, Olasunkanmi Okusaga, Technical Director, Corporate Planning and Investments, Agbonsegbe Osa Konyeha and Mrs Abiola Ajayi, said the last 20 years had seen LAMATA recording several milestones, adding that its vision for the next 20 years was the delivery of a more robust public intermodal transport system.

“As we begin another 20 years, our vision is to see a Lagos where all transport modes are integrated, and people do not need to put their vehicles on the road to get to where they want to go, a Lagos where emission will be reduced, she said.”’

She said LAMATA had played pivotal roles in developing integrated multimodal transport system for Lagos State, beginning with the implementation of the $200 million credit from the World Bank for the implementation of the Lagos Urban Transport Project known as the LUTP 1, a project which gave birth to the first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, described by the World Bank as the first successful BRT in sub-Saharan Africa.

“LAMATA has also implemented LUTP 2, jointly funded by the World Bank and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD).

She said LAMATA came up with the first Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP) in 2009 for the Lagos Metropolitan Area, with a more elaborate one developed in 2014 to cover the entire State and four neighbouring local government areas of Ogun State.

LAMATA also rehabilitated 630km of federal, state and local government roads considered as germane to ease the daily commuting of Lagosians.   

Some of these roads include Akin Adesola, Idejo, and others in Victoria Island, Oba Sekumade Road, Ikorodu, Ayo Alabi Road, which connects Ajayi Road to Ogba in the Ikeja Local Government area of the State, Alaba Road, Ojo, WEMPCO Road, Ikeja, Ijegun Road in Alimosho and many others.

LAMATA was also able to solve the flood problem on WEMPCO Road with an underground drainage outfall into Omole Gorge.

The LAMATA chief said in the last 20 years, the agency built and operationalized the 13kmOshodi-Abule-Egba and 34km Ikorodu-CMS BRT Corridor,and implemented two of the six rail lines -Blue and Red, and with the support of parent Ministry, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation facilitated the development of the Lagos Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) policy, which the government approved in 2019.

“Under the Bus Reform Initiative (BRI), the Lagos State Government procured 920 environmentally friendly buses which we manage on behalf of the Government. As part of the BRT, we have constructed Modern Bus Terminals at Ikeja, Ojota, Ifako-Ijaiye, Yaba, Oyingbo, MMIA/Ewu, Ajah, Abule Egba etc.)

“We have implemented an Intelligent Transport System (ITS), and deployed an Automated Fare Collection System with the use of Cowry Card. There are over 4 million cards in use.”

The LAMATA Chief said the agency is currently implementing the phase 1 of the AFD and IFC funded Lagos State Strategic Transport Master Plan (LSTMPP1), which involves the construction of two Interchanges, eight Quality Bus Corridors, and implementation of various studies on the LSTMP Projects.

Mrs Akinajo thanked the all past governors in the state, beginning from Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, (now Nigeria’s President), Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode and the current governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu for thinking outside the box in giving to Lagosians an agency that is making transportation seamless in the state.

She equally acknowledged all her predecessors in office, from the pioneer Managing Director, Dr Dayo Mobereola and Engr Abiodun Dabiri, as well as all past and current workers and all other stakeholders for their roles in the growth of LAMATA.

COP28: President Tinubu meets King Charles, Nigeria, others eye $261bn.

COP28: President Tinubu meets King Charles, Nigeria, others eye $261bn.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday met King Charles III of England in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, the venue of the COP28 Climate Summit.

Both leaders had arrived in the city to join the conference where leaders from over 198 countries are expected to participate.

Tinubu announced the meeting on his X account, describing the British monarch as a passionate climate advocate.

He stated, “I had a productive meeting with His Majesty, King Charles III of England who is also the Head of the Commonwealth, and a passionate climate advocate.

“The meeting was a significant step in strengthening the partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and I am optimistic about the positive impact our joint efforts will have on our planet’s future as we look forward to setting an equitable global standard for environmental stewardship at COP28.”

Thursday’s meeting became President Tinubu’s first engagement since he arrived Dubai in the early hours of the day.

Presenting the 2024 budget proposal to a joint session of the National Assembly, the President revealed that he had directed relevant government agencies to diligently work towards securing substantial funding commitments that will bolster Nigeria’s energy transition.

He said Nigeria must seize this opportunity to attract international partnerships and investments that align with her national goals.

“I call upon our representatives to engage proactively to showcase the strides we have made in the quest to create an enabling environment for sustainable energy projects.

“Together, we will strive for Nigeria to emerge from COP28 with tangible commitments, reinforcing our dedication to a future where energy is not only a catalyst for development but also a driver of environmental stewardship,”

Meanwhile, Nigeria and other poor oil and gas countries whose climate and environment have been impacted by fossil fuel exploration by International Oil Companies will benefit from a $261bn climate fund.

The climate summit, which kick-started in Dubai on Thursday, saw donations from countries including $100m from the COP28 host United Arab Emirates, another $100m from Germany, at least $51m from Britain, $17.5m from the United States, and $10m from Japan.

The fund, a total of about $261bn will help nations impacted by climate change from fossil fuel exploration cope with costly climate disasters.

It is not yet clear whether or not more donations would be made before the end of the two weeks conference.

Nigeria and other poor oil-producing countries had demanded for a damage fund for years, and analysts say the donations could “help grease the wheels for other compromises to be made” during the two-week summit.

The fund became necessary following divestments by IOCs from fossil fuel to cleaner energies.

A statement by Secretary General, African Petroleum Producers’ Organization, Omar Farouk Ibrahim, released on Thursday, emphasised the need for richer nations to consider the poorer nations in their decisions to phase out fossil fuel, which according to him, had formed the base for which they (richer countries) rode on its back to development

Shaibu free to contest Edo gov, says Obaseki.

Shaibu free to contest Edo gov, says Obaseki.

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, declared on Thursday that his deputy, Philip Shuaibu, is free to contest for the state governorship in 2024.

Obaseki, who asserted that Shaibu had the constitutional right to do so, said nobody had a right to discourage the deputy governor.

He, however, sidestepped the question of whether he would support Shaibu, saying his lone vote could not determine Shaibu’s fate.

It was reported that Shaibu’s governorship ambition had pitted him against his principal, Obaseki.

The crisis between them degenerated into a court case, while Obaseki relocated Shaibu’s office out of the government house.

Notwithstanding Obaseki’s opposition, Shaibu dared his boss and formally declared his governorship ambition on Monday in Benin.

On Thursday, Obaseki spoke to journalists in Bauchi at the end of a closed-door meeting with Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed.

Obaseki, who was in company with a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Emmanuel Udom, told newsmen that the meeting with Mohammed was to discuss issues relating to the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum.

“We came to see Governor Bala and as you know, he’s our Chairman, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum; so we decided to come and see him this afternoon, to congratulate him on his victory and discuss some issues relating to the PDP Governors’ Forum,” he said.

Asked if their discussion had anything to do with his relationship with his deputy, Obaseki said, “That is part of it.”

“We also discussed many other issues relating to our party as a whole and the state of the country. And as you know, things are not as we want them to be. We will keep rubbing our minds to see how we can support the administration and save this country by reducing the suffering of Nigerians,” he added.

About his relationship with his deputy, Obaseki said, “The relationship, as you know, has been cordial. He (Philip) wants to run for the office I currently occupy and he is free to. I think as a Nigerian, he has the constitutional right to run, nobody can or should stop him.

“The party will decide and also members of the party will decide who will be the flag bearer of the party in the forthcoming governorship election.”

When asked whether he would support him, Obaseki said, “I’m only one out of millions of our party members in Edo State. I don’t think my vote alone will determine whether he becomes the party’s flag bearer.”

CBN fund: Senate threatens to order gas companies’ probe.

CBN fund: Senate threatens to order gas companies’ probe.

The Senate Committee on Gas Resources probing the N135bn Central Bank of Nigeria Gas Intervention Fund has said it will invite anti-graft agencies to join in the ongoing investigation.

The panel gave the threat when the affected companies, numbering 14, appeared before it on Thursday to defend the utilisation of the CBN loans they collected.

The lawmakers described as unacceptable, the alleged lack of synergy between the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and the CBN on the project.

They also queried the discriminatory disbursement of the funds to the beneficiaries and wondered why some firms collected more than the N10bn credit limit.

The Chairman of the Committee, Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe, collected the records of the beneficiaries and the locations of their project sites for immediate investigations.

Jarigbe lamented that the funds released under the gas expansion and intervention fund were inappropriately accessed.

He said, “The task of the committee is to ensure that the companies actually expended the funds on what they collected it for.

“The observation of the committee is that there are inconsistencies in the process and the committee may not hesitate to involve the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to recover the funds. Some of the beneficiaries did not follow the guidelines. For instance, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources is not even aware that the funds have been released.

 

“The guidelines stated clearly without ambiguity that they are supposed to do evaluation at the ministry before the list of the qualified ones would be sent to the CBN for them to access the loans but that was not done properly.

“We have also discovered that some of the companies do not have anything on ground since they got the loan.”

“The committee would investigate all the observations and work on them and let Nigerians know the true position of things,” Jarigbe added.

However, the Legal Adviser to one of the beneficiaries, Lee Engineering and Construction Company, Mathew Agbadon, lamented the publication made by the committee had given the company negative publicity.

The Director of Gas in the ministry, Oluremi Komolafe, told the Committee that the Ministry was not aware of the disbursement of the fund even though it partnered with the CBN on the scheme.

She added that 150 applications were received and 69 companies were recommended and presently 16 applications were being processed.

She said none of the firms whose applications were being processed made the list of the beneficiaries of the scheme.

Some of the firms that claimed that they had no business with either the ministry or the CBN were rebuked by the committee.

Federal Government pays N585m fines, begins nationwide prisoners’ release.

Federal Government pays N585m fines, begins nationwide prisoners’ release.

The Federal Government, on Thursday, said it had raised N585m towards the settlement of fines for inmates in a bid to decongest correctional centres across the country.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represented by an Assistant Director in the ministry, Dr Anayo Romanus-Nzekwe, disclosed this on Thursday in Kano, during the release of 150 inmates, whose fines were settled by the Federal Government.

It was reported that the interior minister had repeatedly lamented that no fewer than 4,000 inmates were languishing in detention over their inability to pay fines.

Tunji-Ojo had promised that the Federal Government would clear the fines, estimated at about N500m, and free the inmates.

On Thursday, 150 inmates were freed from the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Janguza in Kano State.

The minister, speaking through Romanus-Nzekwe, said the 150 inmates were among the 4,068 nationwide that the government intended to free in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The Federal Government wants to decongest custodial centres and make them humane for proper reformation and rehabilitation of offenders to take place.

“The released inmates were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment with the option of fine and compensation and could not afford to pay their fines and are languishing in custody.

“The sum of N13.4m was spent in Kano State out of the N585m raised by philanthropic individuals, groups and corporate bodies, as part of their corporate social responsibility, for this purpose nationwide.’’

He explained that all inmates in the custodial centres who have fines and compensation not exceeding N1m were qualified to benefit from the gesture.

“We have given the inmates requisite training aimed at impacting their lives functionally and equipping them with the knowledge and skills for their self-reliance upon discharge,” he added.

Each of the freed inmates was given N10,000 to enable them to return to their various homes and villages.

The minister commended the Controller-General of Corrections and the staff of the Nigerian Correctional Service for providing the needed platform and mechanisms towards the safe and humane custody of inmates.

He called on the public, and communities to receive the returning inmates with open arms and refrain from stigmatising them as it could drive them back to committing crimes, which would further endanger society.

He urged the inmates to see the initiative as a second chance to make things right again.

“Stay off crimes and join hands with our father, President Bola Tinubu, to make Nigeria a great nation.

“Abide by the instructions and training you have received while in custody and be good ambassadors in your communities,” he said.

In his remarks, the Controller General of Corrections, Mr Halliru Nababa, commended the minister for securing the release of 150 inmates.

The CG, who was represented by the Controller of Corrections, Kano State Command, Suleiman Inuwa, said the gesture made a significant impact on the lives of numerous inmates across the country.

Meanwhile, the Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halima Mohammed, also on Thursday pardoned and freed 185 inmates in five custodial facilities across the state.

The CJ said the release of the inmates followed the recommendation of the Criminal Justice Reform Committee.

Speaking on Thursday after three days of working visit to custodial facilities in the state, Justice Mohammed, said, “A total of 141 inmates were released from the Gombe Minimum Custodial Centre.

At the Billiri Custodial Centre, 10 inmates were released, 20 were released on bail, and 11 others were released because they were found to be of good behaviour. Making a total of 41 inmates to be released from Billiri Custodial Centre. At the end of the exercise, across five custodial centres in the state, a total of 182 inmates were released through the Criminal Justice Reform Committee.”

She, urged the ex-inmates to be of good character, in order to benefit from the good gesture of the criminal justice reform committee, calling those awaiting trial to be patient and be of good behaviour while waiting for their sentencing by the courts.

“Criminal Justice Reform Committee commends the Gombe State Government for supporting the committee’s exercise, which is geared towards decongesting the custodial centres,” the CJ said.

The Comptroller of the Gombe State Command of NCoS, Lawan Gusau, lauded the Chief Judge and the Criminal Justice Reform Committee.

“We are grateful for this exercise, and it is the first time a total of 182 inmates are being released because of the compassion and service delivery of Justice Halima Mohammed,” he said

Healthcare delivery: FG seeks private sector help to bridge procurement funding gap.

Healthcare delivery: FG seeks private sector help to bridge procurement funding gap.

The Federal government has declared that it cannot bridge the health sector procurement gap of $29m alone and is seeking the assistance of the private sector to address the issue as it begins the implementation of the sector’s Four Point Agenda, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, 

He said though, enduring policies to revitalize the sector have been put in place, the participation of the private sector is critical to the success of the policies.

Pate, during a high-level private sector forum on family planning in Lagos on Thursday explained that engagement with core private sector organizations and players is critical to ignite effective partnerships and make crucial decisions on the appropriate roadmap to developing a long-term sustainability plan for greater impact on health and expanded family planning products and services in the country.

While stating the constraints faced by the government on the issei, Pate said, “It is worthy of note that in the last five years, the cost of procurement has risen from $26,685,834.33 in 2019 to $41,852,705.15 in 2023.

“Over the same period, the procurement funding gap has increased from $5,794,330.95 in 2019 to $29,054,665.15 in 2023 making it impossible to achieve full supply of family planning commodities to health facilities”.

Represented by the Director of Family Health, Stella Nwosu, the Minister lamented that Nigeria is currently confronted with grave social and economic development challenges due to the nation’s dwindling revenues which have become inadequate to cater for our high population of about 211 million making her the most populous in Africa and 7th in the world.

“This is further compounded by our poor health indices including a very high maternal mortality ratio of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, a very low modern Contraceptive Prevalence Rate (mCPR) of 12%, and an Unmet Need for Family Planning of 19% (NDHS 2018)”, he said.

In a statement by Patricia Deworitshe, the Ministry’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Pate however assured that the government is not discouraged since it was its responsibility to find solutions to the challenges

“At the just concluded 64th National Council on Health Meeting, Council approved the request for establishment and funding of Budget Lines for Family Planning at both National and Sub-National levels for the implementation of Nigeria’s Family Planning programme.

“However, while this is a positive step, it must be said that effectively addressing the funding and other challenges facing Nigeria’s family planning programme goes beyond the public sector.

“A broad-based stakeholder engagement process involving the public, social marketing as well as the private sectors is required.

“It is important to note that a National Guideline on Private Engagement for Family Planning has already been developed and will be a useful tool in driving this process”.

In her remarks, the wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Health District 6, Abimbola Mabogunje noted the growing population in the nation has its attendant challenges such as increased rate of unemployment, high rate of poverty, poor access to sanitation, poor health, lack of or poor education and increased crime rates.

She noted that one effective tool for tackling the problems is for families to have the number of children they can cater for, adding, “Although the government is making frantic efforts to make access to modern family planning free for women, there is a need for all relevant stakeholders in the health sector to join forces with the government to chart a course towards effective funding of family planning services”.

My Govt Will Resist Human Rights Abuses, Social Injustice in Ekiti, Oyebanji Vows.

My Govt Will Resist Human Rights Abuses, Social Injustice in Ekiti, Oyebanji Vows.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has vowed to consistently reinforce the fight against human rights abuses and all forms of social injustices in the state to create an egalitarian society devoid of unwarranted class differences.

Oyebanji said his commitment to the entrenchment of social justice makes him place high premium on provision of various legal and institutional supports for the vulnerable to entrench economic and social balancing in the system .

The governor said this in Ikogosi Resort Centre, Ikogosi Ekiti, on Thursday, while flagging off a two- day workshop for social work practitioners in Ekiti, organised by the office of the First Lady and Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.

Speaking on the theme of the programme : ‘Enhancing Effective Social Work Practice in Ekiti State’, a the programme signposting the flagship of activities marking the 16 days of activism against gender based violence, the governor posited that the initiative further underscores his administration’s focus on protection of the rights of women, children and the vulnerable segments of the population .

Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, applauded the social workers in the state for being supportive of government to tame human rights infringements and gender imbalancing .

The governor, said the programme would further equip the social workers with better skills to be able to discharge their duties to the target population.

Oyebanji said social work is a profession that is devoted to helping vulnerable and communities work through challenges they face , assuring that his government will continually provide the workers with necessary social and legal instruments that will ease their humanitarian jobs.

He said his government has always been opening the vistas of partnership with private individuals and corporate organisations in the running of government, charging the practitioners to continually support his government to achieve the task of ridding Ekiti of injustice.

“On the 7th of this month, I inaugurated the gender based violence management committee to effectively implement the State Gender Based Violence Management Prohibition Law 2019.

*Let me state again that this administration will not tolerate violation of human rights in any form or context. Our shared prosperity vision is for our dear state to be a land of peace, opportunities, and progress. A land of honour in which the people and community can reap the fruits of their labour in dignity, good health and safety.

“We know that no government can solve today’s social problems all alone. It takes all of us together. This administration will deepen its partnership with civil society organisations in practical ways”.

Oyebanji commended the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji and the Ministry of Women Affairs, for midwifing such a well-designed programme that will stimulate brilliant and workable ideas on how to take the state forward in becoming a model in social work practice in the country.

Espousing the significance of social work to nation building, the governor, said: “Social workers have a fulfilling career by helping people overcome difficult situations and find their ways to physical , mental and emotional recovery. By anchoring on advocacy, they bring hope to the people.

“However, with increasingly difficult social problems worldwide, practitioners must rise to the challenges and be well equipped as professionals”.

In her submission, the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, said the quest to rout violence against women and children out of Ekiti, is a collective one, adding that the rising cases of human rights abuses called for all hands to be on deck to restore orderliness and safety to the vulnerable.

Mrs Oyebanji, represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Peju Babafemi, said social workers must be abreast of the 21st century rescue strategies for the victims of violence, saying this programme will offer hope as professionals will cross fertilise ideas on how to achieve the goal.

She said her pet project, Widows and Orphans Hope Project (WAOH) , was set up to bring succour and steadfast commitment to defend the rights of the less privileged, who became vulnerable on account of age, disabilities and other circumstances, describing the struggle as being imperative for everyone to support, because it borders on human rights protection and existence of humanity.

In his submission, the Nigerian Civil Security and Civil Defence Corps ( NSCDC) State Commandant, Mr. John Fayemi, expressed readiness of his agency to join the government to maintain social order in Ekiti.

Fayemi added that the paramilitary agency places priority on backing humanitarian work and diligent protection of the dignity of all citizens.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday Appreciates APC Leaders at Ifedara LCDA Rally.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday Appreciates APC Leaders at Ifedara LCDA Rally.

In a grand finale of the APC rally held on November 30, 2023, at Ifedara LCDA, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, the APC flag bearer for the upcoming Chairmanship election in Ekiti State, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the party leaders and stakeholders who graced the occasion.

Hon. Ogunsanya lauded the dedication, intelligence, hard work, and commitment of the APC leadership at both the state and LCDA levels, emphasizing their continuous efforts for the party's progress.

The event saw overwhelming endorsement for Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday, the APC chairmanship candidate, and Hon Sola Olowojebutu, his running mate, ahead of the local government elections scheduled for December 2nd, 2023

Among the esteemed APC leaders and dignitaries present were Rt Honorable Hakeem Jamiu, RT Honorable Taiwo Franklin Olatunbosun, Hon Bewaji Vincent, Hon Aluko, Hon Egunlusi Tayo, Hon. Ogunsanya John, Hon. Ige Oladipupo, Hon Olorunsola, Pastor Sesan Adewumi, Alhaji Dauda Ajayi, Hon Olowolayemo, Mrs. Caroline Egunlusi, Hon Omosilade Tope, Hon. Laolu Omosilade, Mrs. Wumi Adedipe.

In attendance were also Hon PETER Adekunle, Hon Sola Adekunle, Hon Kayode Ojo, Hon TUYI Ologuntoye, Hon Sola Olowojebutu, the APC vice chairman candidate of Ifedara LCDA Chairmanship position, among others.

During the rally, Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday unveiled his comprehensive blueprint and manifesto for Ifedara LCDA, outlining strategic plans to elevate living standards through focused development across key sectors. The transformative plans encompass various sectors, promising strategic initiatives for agricultural development, healthcare, social security for the elderly, community projects, youth empowerment, education, and enhanced security.

Hon. Ogunsanya Lawrence Sunday also took a moment to offer prayers for the leaders who attended the rally, seeking divine guidance and blessings for their unwavering commitment to the party and its progress. Additionally, he fervently prayed for the continued development of Ifedara LCDA, invoking divine intervention for prosperity and growth in the community.

Boosting Security Architecture: Governor Oyebanji Engages with 2nd Division GOC.

Boosting Security Architecture: Governor Oyebanji Engages with 2nd Division GOC.               By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi J.

In a strategic move to fortify the security infrastructure of the state, Governor Biodun Oyebanji hosted Major General Bamidele Alabi, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Division of the Nigeria Army, earlier today at the Governor’s office in Ado-Ekiti.

The meeting, aimed at enhancing the security apparatus in Ekiti State, highlighted the commitment of the BAO administration to leave no stone unturned in ensuring the safety, welfare, and overall wellbeing of all citizens.

Governor Oyebanji expressed the significance of collaborative efforts with the Nigerian Army to bolster the existing security architecture. The engagement with Major General Alabi signifies a proactive approach to addressing emerging security challenges and fostering a secure environment for residents.

The BAO administration remains steadfast in its dedication to creating a state where citizens can go about their daily activities without fear, thereby fostering an atmosphere conducive to growth and development.

As the government continues to prioritize the security of lives and property, Governor Oyebanji assured the people of Ekiti State that every measure necessary for the improvement of security is being implemented, reflecting the administration's unwavering commitment to the overall wellbeing of the state.

This move reinforces the collaborative synergy between the state government and security agencies, showcasing a united front against threats to peace and security in Ekiti.

The people of Ekiti State can expect continuous efforts and proactive initiatives from the BAO administration to ensure that the state remains a safe haven for all. The meeting with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2nd Division marks a significant step forward in achieving this goal.

Akeredolu releases N1bn for retired teachers, LG workers.

Akeredolu releases N1bn for retired teachers, LG workers.

Ondo state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has flagged off a payment of N1bn as a gratuity to teachers and local government workers who retired in 2011.

Some pensioners who retired in 2012 were paid while those the government termed as distressed benefitted from the N1bn payment.

Governor Akeredolu, who was represented by his special adviser on union matters and special duties, Dare Aragbaiye, said the N1bn was sourced from the October allocation from the federation account.

Akeredolu said the payment of N1bn marked gradual defrayment of the backlog of gratuity arrears for retirees of Local Government and Primary school teachers.

The governor said another tranche would soon be paid within the first quarter of next year.

He said his administration has fully paid all outstanding salaries and pensions including allowances for all retirees left by the previous administration.

Akeredolu said: “We want to make sure pensioners in the state do not suffer anymore. We are making efforts to rid our communities of miscreants and criminals as well as those who engage in cult-related activities in our dear state.

“The state government is continually committing enormous resources to strengthening the Amotekun Corps in terms of equipment and human resources. This is in addition to the provision of funds and other logistical support to other sister security agencies operating in Ondo State. Our government cannot tolerate a situation where our citizens cannot conduct their daily businesses in a safe environment.”

The commissioner for local government and chieftaincy affairs, Takuro Amidu, said the payment of the gratuity was initiated by Governor Akeredolu by ensuring that some money was saved every month.

He said Governor Akeredolu was poised to take care of senior citizens.

Some of the pensioners said it was suicidal for them to survive 12 years without collecting their gratuities.

Many of them would use a chunk of the money to pay accumulated debts.

Chief Ojo Samuel said it was difficult for him to cope with situations of life after he retired and his gratuity was not paid.

He said: “We thank God we are alive to collect and enjoy our benefit.”

The chairman of pensioners in Ondo state, Johnson Osunyemi, said the payment of N1bn was a reassurance that the governor would do more for them.

He said pensioners have not witnessed such a good gesture in the state.

President Tinubu confirms Adepoju as substantive Comptroller-General of Immigration.

President Tinubu confirms Adepoju as substantive Comptroller-General of Immigration.

President Bola Tinubu has confirmed the appointment of Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju as the substantive Comptroller General (CG) of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), The Nation has learnt.

Adepoju broke the news of her confirmation to the staff of the NIS during the Comptroller General’s Parade on Wednesday, November 29.

She told officers and personnel present at the parade that the date for her decoration would be announced in due course.

She was quoted to have said: “You may also wish to know, that through the grace of God and by the benevolence of the present government, I have been confirmed as a substantive Comptroller General of Immigration.”

As the most senior Deputy Comptroller General (DCG), Mrs Adepoju was appointed the acting CG on May 29, 2023, following the retirement of CG, Isah Idris Jere from the Service.

Meanwhile, Adepoju further announced at the Parade that some members of the top management team who took part in a promotion exam have been elevated to the ranks of Deputy Comptrollers General.

She added that the date of their decoration would be made known as soon as possible.

Adepoju also called on officers to observe a minute of silence in honour of members of the service who died some weeks ago in the line of duty while on their way back to the Headquarters from a trip to Kano. She enjoined them to pray that the Almighty God rest their souls in peace.

The CGI announced that the parade was dedicated to the memory of our fallen colleagues and assured that NIS would continue to support the bereaved families.

She said an Endowment Fund is being created by the Service for the upkeep of the families of the deceased.

Nigerians will enjoy improved power supply soon – Adelabu.

Nigerians will enjoy improved power supply soon – Adelabu.

The minister of power, Adebayo Adelabu on Thursday, November 30, said the objective of making the 2023 Electricity Act is to improve energy supply. 

He vowed that the citizenry would soon record improved power supply nationwide.

He spoke at the 3rd edition Workshop of the Power Correspondent Association of Nigeria (PICAN) in Abuja.

The theme of the workshop was: “Resolving Nigeria’s Power Crisis: The Implication of the Electricity Act 2023.”

He said: “Taking all the above into consideration, especially with the liberalization of the sector, Nigerians will soon start to experience the objective that led to the Act which is improved power supply across the country.”

The minister noted that a key part of the 2023 Electricity Act is the development of the Integrated National Electricity Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan.

He revealed: “On this, we are working with the National Council on Power (NCP) to develop and send the implementation strategy to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval.”

He revealed that part of the federal government’s in its roadmap, is the emphasis on the bottom-up approach, unlike the top-down approach of the past.

According to him, the implication, with the bottom-up approach is that we will prioritize Metering, Distribution and Transmission infrastructure.

He added that the administration will focus on Customers down to distribution and transmission infrastructure in the short term, this is to ensure that a significant portion of what is generated currently gets to the end users.

Adelabu also said: “We will also pay attention to the generation segment particularly in areas of distributed (embedded) power from renewable energy sources, while at the same time, advancing baseload power through thermal and hydro plants in the medium to long term.

“We will further explore our regional energy potentials. We will focus on solar energy in the North, mini hydro power plants in the Middle belt and the Southwest, hybridized with solar while our coastal States will be identified for wind energy utilization.”

He tasked the media to stress advocacy to emphasise power theft, and vandalization and educate consumers against sabotage.

He also charged them to amplify that the financial liquidity in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) is dependent on customers paying for electricity consumed.

He described the theme as quite apt, considering President Bola Tinubu’s avowed desire to provide a regular supply of electricity across the country by liberalizing the power sector through the enactment of the 2023 Electricity Act.

He said the 2023 Electricity Act is a significant part of our country’s energy roadmap as it signifies the present administration’s commitment to the transformation of the power sector as clearly stated in the agenda of Mr President as contained in the Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, the Electricity Act has liberalized electricity generation, transmission and distribution.

Adelabu noted that it has also empowered States, Organisations and even individuals to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity. Under this Act, the minister said the state government can issue licenses to private investors to operate power plants and mini-grids, within the States.

He added that private investors can also obtain licenses for generation, transmission, system operations, trading, distribution, and supply.

The Act, according to Adelabu, can also encourage the integration of renewable energy technologies into the existing grid system while licensees are expected to meet renewable energy obligations as stipulated by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

He added that among others, the Act also introduced mechanisms for incentives for investment in the sector.

He said such incentives include feed-in-tariffs which guarantees a fixed price for renewable energy fed into the grid and tax incentives for investors.

The minister said to ensure a level playing field for all players in the sector and prevent anti-competitive practices, the Act also provides clear guidelines for the licensing, monitoring and supervision of market participants.

He further noted that the Act guarantees asset protection by allowing investors to sell or transfer their undertakings in the event of revocation of licenses or compensation in the event of takeover of such undertakings.

Adelabu said: “Therefore when we consider the totality of the re-enacted Electricity Act, it has changed the entire landscape of the power sector.

“What this implies is that everyone involved in the power sector value chain must contribute meaningfully in ensuring the successes that are envisaged by the enactment of the Act.”

 In his remarks, PCAN chairman, Mr Obas Esiedesa, recalled that on November 1, 2013, the federal government handed over the distribution and most generation assets to the private sector, marking the beginning of private investment into the NESI.

According to him, since then, expectations raised by the entrance of private entrepreneurs into the sector have largely remained unmet.

He said that 10 years down the line, the time has come for the Federal Government to take a holistic review of the entire Power sector privatization. 

Esiedesa said what is now expedient is not necessarily taking away the assets from operators, but finding solutions to the huge challenges facing the industry.

Ekiti Government Cautious Residents Against Acts That May Cause Fire Outbreak.

Ekiti Government Cautious Residents Against Acts That May Cause Fire Outbreak.

As the year draws to a close with the attendant dry season, the Ekiti State Government has cautioned residents against acts that may lead to outbreak of fire.

The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun in a statement made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti, stressed the need for caution especially in the dry season.

Olatunbosun noted that fire outbreaks constitute one of the most rampant calamities during this period of the year as a result of the harmattan which is associated with extremely dry and dusty wind that makes it easy for fire to spread at the slightest ignition.

He noted that a lot of the disasters could have been averted if actions inimical to fire incidents are avoided, adding that activities like indiscriminate bush-burning, careless handling of lighted cigarettes and allied substances, mishandling of explosives, fire-crackers and knockout bangers as well as random storage of inflammable substances such as petroleum products are sure catalysts for fire disasters.

Stressing that the welfare of the people remained top priority of the State Government, Olatunbosun noted that the commitment of Government to the of residents lead to the impressive Nigeria Security Trackers’ (NST) tag as the safest State in Nigeria (2022).

He highlighted Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration’s intervention within one year in office to include repairs of operational pick-up vehicles and firefighting engines at Omuo and Ikole Ekiti, refurbishment of six firefighting vehicles across the State and approval for the renovation of the Ekiti State Fire Service Headquarters in Ado Ekiti.

The Commissioner however described the safety of lives and property as a collective responsibility, adding that residents must be ready to promptly report any untoward action to relevant security agencies for the safety of all.

EKITI LG POLLS: EKSIEC Distributes Election Materials Ahead Of Saturday's Local Government Elections.

EKITI LG POLLS: EKSIEC Distributes Election Materials Ahead Of Saturday's Local Government Elections.

About 48 hours to Saturday's Local Government & Local Council Development Areas Election in Ekiti State, election materials have been distributed by the election umpire - Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (EKSIEC).

The distribution which took place in Ado Ekiti at the premises of EKSIEC was witnessed by the leadership of the political parties participating in the election, election observers and security agents.

Speaking at the occasion, EKSIEC Chairman, Justice Cornelius Akintayo said the materials included both sensitive and non-sensitive and were being despatched early   to ensure timely arrival at all nooks and crannies of the state.

He explained that the materials have been customised in the names of each of the 16 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and the 22 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the state.

One of the leaders of the political parties who witnessed the distribution, IPAC PRO, Chief Eponlolaye Olufemi, commended the exercise and urged EKSIEC not to renege on its promise of a level playing field to all parties on election day.

Eponlolaye who doubles as the Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC) noted that his party would pull a surprise at the election.

The EKSIEC Chairman thereafter conducted the stakeholders round the election materials for them to see that they have not been tampered with.

Justice Akintayo also welcomed a contingent of Mobile Police Squad that arrived at the commission's premises as part of the security agents to maintain law and order during Saturday's election.

Meanwhile, the sensitive and non-sensitive materials have started to move to the various Council and LCDA headquarters via commercial vehicles and each of the vehicles went with armed police escort.

Ekiti State Launches Ambitious SURWASH Program for Water Supply and Sanitation.

Ekiti State Launches Ambitious SURWASH Program for Water Supply and Sanitation.

In a significant stride towards enhancing water supply and sanitation services, the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Program has kicked off its physical operations in nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) across Ekiti State.

This World Bank-assisted initiative is set to transform the lives of communities by constructing 31 boreholes, rehabilitating 21 others, and establishing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities in nine schools and three Primary Health Care Centers.

The primary objective of SURWASH is to elevate water supply, sanitation, and hygiene services in the state. The ambitious program aims to provide approximately 672,830 people with unhindered access to water supply, declare 55 communities Open Defecation Free (ODF), and offer improved functional sanitation and handwashing facilities to 30,884 households, 221 schools, and healthcare facilities by the program’s conclusion in 2027.

The nine beneficiary Local Government Areas include Ado, Irepodun Ifelodun, Ikole, Ijero, Moba, Ilejemeje, Oye, Ekiti West, and Gbonyin (Ayekire).

Among the initial sites that have witnessed the commencement of operations are Ipole-Iloro Basic Health Center, Itapa Basic Health Center, and Ogunwusi/Jemiriye High School in Igede.

These developments mark a crucial step forward in realizing the SURWASH program’s overarching goals and ushering in a new era of improved water supply, sanitation, and hygiene for the people of Ekiti State.

Olagbaju elected chairperson of Conference of Nigeria Female Parliamentarians.

Olagbaju elected chairperson of Conference of Nigeria Female Parliamentarians.

Right Honourable Bolaji Olagbaju from Ekiti State has been elected as the Chairperson of Conference of Nigeria Female Parliamentarians (CONFEPA).

Olagbaju, who is the Deputy Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, was overwhelmingly elected at the conference of the Nigerian Female  Parliamentarians held in Abuja on Tuesday, November 28, 2023.

Olagbaju, who doubles as the lawmaker representing Ado Ekiti Constituency II in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, was a Senior Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Government before she ran for and was elected as a member of the Ekiti State Parliament.

Olagbaju will take over from former Speaker House of Assembly Edo State. Rt. Hon. Elizabeth Ativie and she will serve a four-year tenure as the chairperson of CONFEPA. 

She has promised to make her tenure impactful, saying some of her immediate goals would be to seek for more inclusion of women in Governance in Nigeria and a framework to reactivate the 35 per cent affirmative action in the Nigerian polity. 

The new CONFEPA chairperson also said during her tenure, the female lawmakers would devise legitimate means through which they would fight for the abrogation of laws that infringe on women and girl-child citizens’ rights in Nigeria.

Fayemi Takes the Stage at UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai.

Fayemi Takes the Stage at UN Climate Change Conference in Dubai.

In a significant development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and current President of the Forum of Regions of Africa (FORAF), is set to share insights at the UN Climate Change Conference, COP 28, scheduled to be held in Dubai from November 30th to December 12th, 2023.

As the President of FORAF, a regional platform dedicated to enhancing governance and fostering sustainable development in Africa's towns and cities, Fayemi's inclusion as a speaker emphasizes the critical role of sub-national governments in climate change initiatives. His speaking engagement, titled "The Role of Sub-National Governments in Operationalization of Loss and Damage Fund," is slated for December 2nd and is part of a side event organized by the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa).

The Loss and Damage Fund, a mechanism established at COP 27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, aims to offer financial assistance to developing countries facing heightened vulnerability to climate change impacts. Expected to commence operations in 2024, the fund is poised to play a pivotal role in alleviating the challenges posed by climate change.

Fayemi plans to underscore the significance of sub-national governments in facilitating the operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund. He will advocate for their crucial role in identifying and assessing the needs of vulnerable communities, ensuring the efficient and effective utilization of the allocated funds.

Participation in COP 28 not only positions Fayemi as a notable representative but also provides FORAF with a unique opportunity to elevate the prominence of sub-national governments in the global climate change discourse. This engagement also serves as a platform to showcase FORAF's commitment to driving sustainable development in African towns and cities.

The forthcoming conference stands as a critical juncture for leaders to collaboratively address climate change challenges and pave the way for a resilient and sustainable future.

Ekiti State Government Initiates Free Distribution of CAC Documents to Support Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

Ekiti State Government Initiates Free Distribution of CAC Documents to Support Nano, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises.

The Ekiti State Governor, H.E Biodun Oyebanji has graciously approved the distribution of free CAC certificates to NMSMEs and Business owners who enrolled in the free CAC registration 2022 during the JKF administration. 

This is following the announcement of the partnership between SMEDAN and Sterling bank to provide access to finance through single digit soft loan for NMSMEs between 250,000 to 2 million naira. 

The distribution of the free CAC certificates is to enable Ekiti NMSMEs and Business owners benefit from the SMEDAN & Sterling bank soft loan to which CAC registration is a compulsory requirement.

The distribution of the CAC documents would commence after the flag-off ceremony which is slated to take place at ⬇️

Venue: Conference hall, Governor’s office, Ado Ekiti

Date: Monday, 4th of December, 2023

Time: 12noon

N.B

Collection of CAC certificates would commence right after the flag-off program at the Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment, Adeyeye Ibidunmoye Building, State Secretariat, Ado Ekiti from 8am to 4pm daily.

Signed

Hon. Omotayo Adeola (Mrs.)

Honorable Commissioner

Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment

Federal Government and U.S. Initiate Talks on Funding Mining Projects in Nigeria.

Federal Government and U.S. Initiate Talks on Funding Mining Projects in Nigeria.

The Federal Government and the United States have started talks on the funding of mining projects in the country.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake and United States Assistant Secretary for Energy and Natural Resources Geoffrey Pratt have agreed to set up a team of officials of both countries to explore financing for mining firms and infrastructures.

This agreement was held on the sidelines of the mines and money conference holding in London.

Special Adviser to the Minister, Kehinde Bamigbetan made this known in a press statement.

Pratt said his visit to Alake followed an earlier meeting with President Bola Tinubu who sought the support of the US for the country’s economic revival.

He said the US would like to be Nigeria’s partner of choice in developing the solid minerals sector and was interested in the reforms announced by the Minister in his address at the plenary of the conference.

Noting that the United States has various institutions and laws which encourage direct foreign investment, Pratt said he would notify the agencies to collaborate with their Nigerian counterparts to work out the framework.

“Responding, Dr. Alake said the gesture was music to his ears as the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has launched a seven point agenda as its roadmap to reposition the sector.

“He highlighted the establishment of the new Solid Minerals Development Company, a new security architecture to ensure safety of mine operations and data generation on a massive scale to derisk the sector.

“He said the credit facility and foreign direct investment promised by the United States would be in the mutual interest of both countries because energy minerals such as lithium are critical to the global crusade for clean energy and necessary for the manufacture of electric cars.

“Also speaking at the meeting, the executive secretary of the Nigerian Solid Minerals Fund, Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi commended the US for investment in mining infrastructures in the central Africa urging a similar partnership with the Fund.”

Diri seeks lawmakers’ approval for N480.9b 2024 budget.

Diri seeks lawmakers’ approval for N480.9b 2024 budget.

....Makinde to present 2024 budget estimates to Oyo Assembly December 5.

......Oborevworii takes N714.4b proposal to Delta lawmakers.

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri yesterday presented an Appropriation Bill of N480.9 billion for the 2024 fiscal year to the state House of Assembly for consideration and passage.

Diri said the fiscal proposal, titled: Budget of Sustainable and Shared Prosperity, would be funded through Opening Balance of N13.6 billion; Statutory Allocation, N57 billion; VAT, N36 billion; 13 per cent Derivation, N208.9 billionn; IGR, N23.8 billion, and other capital receipts, such as stamp duties, loans, grants, among others, estimated at N141.578 billion.

The governor also broke down the planned expenditures as follows: Personnel Cost N52.3 billion; Pensions and Gratuity, N13 billion; Contributory Pension Scheme, N2.4 billion, among others.

He said Overhead Cost would gulp N94.3 billion; Grants, Contributions and Subsidies, N13.8 billion; 10 per cent Contribution to SUBEB, N2.5 billion; RDAs, N170 million and Public Debt Services N43.245 billion, bringing the total overhead cost to N154 billion.

On Capital Expenditure, Diri said total expenditure would be N257.7 billion, including planning reserve of N12.2 billion, representing 53.59 per cent of the budget; while the Recurrent represents 46.41 per cent of the budget.

Diri said Works and Infrastructure would gulp N141.8 billion; Education, N49.8 billion; Agriculture, N14.8 billion; Environment, N15.5 billion; Health, N26 billion; and Lands and Housing, N6.8 billion. Others include Youths and Sports, N7.6 billion, Transport, N6.4 billion, and Power N6.04 billion.

Allocations to other sectors and ministries did not feature in the governor’s speech.

Diri said his administration would continue to provide the enabling environment to attract investors for the growth of the state’s economy and the empowerment of the people to participate in that space.

Bayelsa State House of Assembly Speaker Abraham Ingobere hailed the governor and his team for their commitment, courage and character in implementing this year’s budget well.

He promised that the budget proposal would be given expeditious passage.

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori yesterday presented a N714.4 billion Appropriation Bill for the 2024 fiscal year to the State House of Assembly.

Oborevwori said the budget, named: Budget of Hope and Optimism, comprised a Recurrent Expenditure of N316.6 billion, representing 44 per cent; and Capital Expenditure of N397.9 billion, representing 56 per cent of the total budget.

The governor said his administration would embark on the construction of more critical roads because “we are irrevocably committed to advancing urban-rural integration”.

He added: “In 2024, we propose to spend N150 billion on Road Infrastructure for the Ministry of Works; N46.55 billion on Education; Health will gulp N18.65 billion; Agriculture, N7 billion; and Urban Renewal, N7.5 billion.

“Environment will gulp N2.1 billion, and Youth Development N1.7 billion. These key sectors are very essential in our 2024 budget.”

House of Assembly Speaker Emomotimi Guwor said the budget presentation was historic as it was the first being presented by the governor, who was immediate past Speaker of the House.

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde is scheduled to present the 2024 Appropriation Bill to the House of Assembly on December 5.

The governor is expected to be accompanied by top government officials during the ceremony.

The state government had held stakeholders’ consultative meetings on the proposed budget before the seven administrative zones of the state to give account of this year’s budget performance and collate the views and needs of people across all the zones.

NDDC laments unpaid N2tn allocation.

NDDC laments unpaid N2tn allocation.

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Sam Ogbuku, on Wednesday, said the interventionist agency is being owed remittances totalling over N2trn by the Federal Government.

Ogbuku stated this when he appeared before the House of Representatives’ Committee on NDDC, chaired by Ibori-Suenu Erhiatake.

According to him, the amount is the accumulation of 15 per cent of the allocation of the nine states that make up the region, due to the commission since 2000.

He noted that in spite of the passage of the agency’s annual budget in 2021, 2022 and 2023; the funds were yet to be remitted.

“I want to raise an important issue. When we talk about funding, the NDDC Act says the monthly allocation from the Federal Government is 15 per cent of the allocation of nine states of the Niger Delta. But I can assure you that since the inception of the NDDC, it has not got that.

“The Federal Government only budgets what it wants to give to the NDDC for that year and they give it that year. If you look at the 15 per cent, we are not getting it.  Even with the removal of fuel subsidy and with the increment of state allocation,  the NDDC is still where it is. So, these are issues we want you to help us resolve and we have done our calculation that from 2000 to date we can say we are being owed over N2trn from what is supposed to be due NDDC.

“We also came in at a point when the NDDC never had a budget for 2021, 2022 and 2023. These budgets were before the National Assembly and we had to fast-track the passage of those budgets and those budgets were eventually passed in April this year. However, since the budget was passed, it has not been handed over to us up till now. We pray and plead with you to ensure that as fast as possible, you also facilitate the process for us to have the budget because the budget year is already coming to an end,” he said.

The Chairman of the NDDC Board, Chiedu Ebie, said the board would work together to reposition the commission in the interest of the oil-producing states and Nigeria at large.

On his part,  Erhiatake said issues raised by the agency would be addressed in no distant time.

“It is very important we create a platform for synergy in the implementation of these policies and programmes for the general benefit of Nigerians and especially the people of the Niger Delta. I assure you that this committee is willing and ready to partner with you to make sure that the dividends of democracy are brought to the region and the narratives that had been set by the previous board are changed for the better.”

Meanwhile, the  Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has advised officials of the NDDC to be abreast of anti-graft laws so as to step out of line.

The ICPC Zonal Commissioner for Rivers and Bayelsa states, Mrs. Ekere Usiere, gave the advice during a sensitisation programme organised by the NDDC at its headquarters in Port Harcourt.

A statement on Wednesday by the Director, Corporate Affairs of the NDDC, Pius Ughakpoteni, said Usiere spoke on the topic: “Understanding the Offences and Penalties Under the ICPC Act 2000.”

It also quoted the Head, Legal Department of ICPC in Rivers State, Dr Agada Akogwu, as saying,  “Every public servant should take the ICPC Act as a Bible and internalise all its tenets. That is why the NDDC deserves commendation for organising a sensitization programme for its staff.”

Pollution: Reps vow to stop oil firms’ divestiments.

Pollution: Reps vow to stop oil firms’ divestiments.

The National Assembly has said it will stop International Oil Companies operating in the Niger Delta from divesting their facilities if they fail to address the negative environmental impacts of their operations in their host communities.

The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities, Dumnamene Dekor, stated this at a two-day Technical Session on the Implementation of Host Communities Development Trusts organided by Space for Change with support from Ford Foundation.

Dekor expressed dismay that since the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act, rather than experiencing a better deal, communities had remained poor and in some cases, worse off.

He said the committee would use the instrumentality of the law to ensure that oil giants operate responsibly.

Dekor said, “By the enactment of that law, and you are aware it was done in 2021 and this is 2023, we have not seen the host communities stop complaining, meaning that the Host Communities Development Trusts are not operational.

“The host communities have not started getting the benefit of the law and it leaves the people of host communities in the same way they have always been.

“I understand that some of them (oil companies) are beginning to divest very quickly, we will also make sure that we stop some of those divestments so that the people can benefit.

“Take for example, you cannot mess up an environment, degrade it, then suddenly you divest, leave all that you have done and walk away. This committee will also liaise and make sure that we form partnerships with those communities that are affected to make sure that if it is Shell or any other company, we will make sure they are brought to account. We want people to begin to reap benefits.”

The Executive Director of the Spaces for Change, Victoria Ohaeri, said the meeting provided an opportunity for an appraisal of the PIA after its passage.

Aiyedatiwa returns to Ondo, heads exco meeting today.

Aiyedatiwa returns to Ondo, heads exco meeting today.

The Ondo State Deputy Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, returned to the state on Wednesday following last Friday’s meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.

The President met with stakeholders in the Ondo All Progressives Congress over the political crisis rocking the state.

In the raging crisis, the Ondo State House of Assembly pushed for Aiyedatiwa’s impeachment in the face of the apparent breakdown of the relationship between ailing Governor Rotimi Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa, who was acting governor while his principal was on a long medical vacation in Germany.

It was reported that the Ondo Assembly met on Tuesday and disclosed that Aiyedatiwa had been asked to tender an undated resignation letter as part of the moves to resolve the political crisis.

According to the Assembly Speaker, Olamide Oladiji, the decision was taken at the meeting with Tinubu in Abuja.

But an ally of the deputy governor, who spoke to The PUNCH on Tuesday, Aiyedatiwa was not pleased with the arrangement.

On Wednesday, it was gathered that the deputy returned to the state and went to his office to conduct some official activities.

A source in the deputy governor’s office informed our correspondent that Aiyedatiwa would preside over the state Executive Council meeting that would be holding on today ( Thursday).

The source said, “The deputy governor is around and he has resumed office today (Wednesday). He would preside over the exco meeting tomorrow (Thursday).”

Aiyedatiwa has been battling for political survival in the state as the state House of Assembly attempted to remove him following an allegation of gross misconduct against him.

The impeachment process was however stalled as the state Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, refused the request of the Assembly to set up a seven-man panel to investigate the deputy governor.

The crisis started when Akeredolu returned to the country after a medical vacation in Germany, in September this year. The crisis led to the intervention of President Tinubu, who held a meeting with the concerned parties last Friday.

On Wednesday, an Ondo APC chieftain, Otunba Olumide Araoyinbo, hailed the intervention of the President, saying would finally resolve the crisis and help to resuscitate commerce in the state.

Araoyinbo, a former Majority Leader of the state House of Assembly and President of the state Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in a statement on Wednesday, said the political crisis created a climate of fear and discouraged commercial activities.

He hoped that peace had finally returned after Tinubu’s intervention.

Meanwhile, a group, Concerned Elites of Ondo State, in a statement on Wednesday, accused the Speaker of twisting the resolutions reached in the meeting with Tinubu.

The group said, “We have noticed that Mr Speaker, for reasons known to him, deliberately twisted facts to suit a certain interest by asserting that there was no agreement to transfer power to the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, following the prolonged absence of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

“While reading the major conditions of status quo put forward at the meeting, which include retaining the cabinet, Assembly leadership and party leadership as currently constituted in the State, Mr. Speaker refused to mention that those conditions were hinged on Aiyedatiwa gaining acting governorship status.”

Credit: The Punch Newspaper