Benue Govt bans political gatherings over insecurity.

Benue Govt bans political gatherings over insecurity.

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has banned political meetings/ gatherings in the state till further notice.

 Alia said the ban followed intelligence on the security situation in the state.

 The decision, contained in a statement by Paul Biam, chief of staff to the governor, made specific reference to the presence of armed herders in the state.

 The statement which also copied the state Police Commissioner George Chuku reads: “I write to inform you that Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has banned all political gatherings in any form, be it inter or intra party or groups in Benue State till further notice.

 “This has become necessary following intelligence on the volatility of the security atmosphere in the state. It is certainly not news to you how the security atmosphere in the state is charged following the unprecedented influx of armed herdsmen in the state.

 “You are by this notification invited to enforce this directive. Accept the assurances and best regards from the Governor of Benue State.”

Nigeria making progress, says Otti.

Nigeria making progress, says Otti.

Nigeria is making progress in the recovery of the economy, Abia State Governor Alex Otti said yesterday.

The governor also gave reasons for the sliding fortunes of the naira. He suggested what the Federal Government can do to arrest the trend.

Otti, a banker, commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for the initiatives it took in the last few days, saying such policies were in good fate.

He however urged the apex bank to keep engaging experts and shareholders with a view to reviewing its policies.

The governor, whose chat on a national television monitored by this newspaper, absolved the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration of blame on the prevailing economic hardship.

According to him, the present administration was on the path of economic recovery.

Otti said: “On whether the policies taken so far are in order, there’s always a need to rejig and take a second look at those policies.

“This we talked about in the National Economic Council meeting last week in Abuja. This is because things keep changing. I cannot say we are where we want to be, but, I believe that we are making progress.

“Some of the initiatives taken by the CBN have led to some slight changes. For how long those changes will last that I cannot say. I believe once in while we need to look at those policies again, discus review and where necessary rejig them.”

Explaining why the nation’s economy is in bad shape, Otti said: “I believe a major problem that we have is financial discipline. We are dealing with an economy that has so much money in circulation.

“At the last count, if I’m correct, we had about N30 trillion. What happens with Ways and Means was that the quantum of goods does not equate the quantity of the money you print.

“Yet, the quantum of goods in circulation can’t equate the money in circulation; If you had N100 and the basket of goods will be N100; tomorrow, you decide to print N200, that same basket of goods will still be N200, though it’s original value is N100

“Well, may be in the short form, you may print to fix some challenges; but, when it becomes an economic policies that you just keep printing and spending money, you’re just deceiving yourself because that does not improve productivity.

“It does not improve the quantity of goods you have. This is just to break it down in a layman’s language. That is a major problem that we had faced and that is the main reason why we’re battling with inflation, unemployment and all the headaches we are dealing with.

On the forex challenge, Otti said, the market functions on the basis of demand and supply.

“So, why the exchange is going up is because something is happening between demand and supply. Anytime demand outreaches supply, prices will go up. And anytime supply outreaches demand, prices will go down.

“Anything that happens in between is about the policy options that you have chosen. What we’re seeing is that demand is increasing, but supply is not increasing.

“Now, we are dealing with forex supply and demand. We need to keep asking ourselves what to do to increase supply of foreign currency and what do we do to reduce the demand.

“One of those, or two of these, would either give us an outcome that would be better or worse. The outcome you get depends on the input.

“For the economy to recover, the governor said the nation must move from consumption to production. If the economy must recover, we must move to production.

“That does not necessarily mean that we will reduce consumption. What it means is that, we would be consuming what we produce.

Read Also: Lagos begins prosecution of pedestrians crossing highways

“A situation whereby we keeping importing almost everything that we consume will keep piling pressure on the foreign exchange market.”

Otti, who faulted the claim that the governors now get more money, said the rate of inflation had eroded the gains the state would have making now.

He said: “Sometimes, if exchange rate has increased say by 100 percent and inflation has gone up by 30 per cent, taking inflation alone that means that N100 yesterday worths only N70 today.

“Yes, in terms of absolute figure, monthly allocations from the Federation Account have increased, but in terms of the value the naira can afford, you’ll see that you simply lose your shirts.

“In that light, I wouldn’t agree that we have more allocations when the value of naira has seriously depreciated.”

Aiyedatiwa orders arrest of thugs.

Aiyedatiwa orders arrest of thugs.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has ordered security agencies to arrest those responsible for the destruction of billboards and campaign posters of his opponents in the governorship race.

Hoodlums, accused of supporting Aiyedatiwa, had attacked members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who wore the paraphernalia of other governorship aspirants during Wednesday’s visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the state.

The hoodlums destroyed billboards and campaign posters of aspirants mounted along major streets of Akure.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said his administration would not tolerate any form of violence capable of threatening the peace of the state.

The governor said any political campaign that disturbed peace in the state was unacceptable and must be met with the decisive actions of law enforcement agencies.

The statement said nobody associated with the governor or Ondo State Government was involved in any of the reported activities ascribed to “political thugs” during the President’s visit to Owo and Akure.

“The governor has therefore asked law enforcement agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found to be engaged in such violent activities.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa urges politicians and their followers to ensure their campaigns are issue- based, devoid of blackmail, spreading falsehood, inciting the public and intimidating opponents.”

You’re not Nigerians’ voice, Tinubu knocks NLC over strikes.

You’re not Nigerians’ voice, Tinubu knocks NLC over strikes.

President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, threw a jab at the Nigeria Labour Congress over the unions’ strikes, saying calling for four industrial actions against an administration that is barely nine months old is unacceptable.

Tinubu, who stated this at the unveiling of Phase One of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line at the Ikeja Station, declared that the NLC was not “the voice of Nigerians” and should contest in the 2027 general elections if it was interested in joining the electoral process.

He said, “The labour union has gone on strike four times within my nine months in government. That’s a record. Calling for a strike in just nine months of an administration is unacceptable. The NLC is not the voice of Nigerians. It should wait till 2027 if it is interested in joining the electoral process.”

The President added that he was aware of the complaints being made over the economic challenges in the country, urging Nigerians to persevere, pledging that the nation would soon be out of the economic problems.

“I am assuring that Nigeria will be out of economic problems, we just need to persevere, work hard and be assured,” he said.

He identified corruption as one of the major reasons the country was facing economic challenges but promised not to look back in the fight against it.

“No going back on reforms revolution. Smugglers will fight back, corruption will fight back, but we will fight and win. Corruption will go away. The fight against corruption is on, we will not look back, we will fight it to ruins,” he added.

Speaking on the Red Line rail, Tinubu said the unveiling was a validation of democracy of the people, for the people and by the people.

“Today is evidence that it’s good to dream and it is a serious validation of democracy by the people for the people, when you people at the centre are focused, have vision and planning, you will realise the value of democracy.

“Twenty-five years ago, I was elected to lead Nigeria’s most populous state, the smallest in land mass, when all that existed here was suppressed and aborted potential and when the dream began, my team and I toiled day and night to draft and implement a developmental vision that would transform Lagos into the economic powerhouse of Africa and a respected mega city on a global state. We are realising that dream.

“I am pleased to declare to you that the momentum of greatness we kick-started a quarter of a century ago has since become unstoppable. It’s not a crime to dream and dream big, just stay focused, precisely make development a central focus,” the President said.

Earlier, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in his speech appreciated the two former governors of the state, Mr Babatunde Fashola for starting the construction of the Blue Line rail, and Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, for “his significant and indelible contributions to the further development of the Blue Line rail.”

The governor also appreciated former President Goodluck Jonathan for signing off on the track-sharing agreement, and the Nigerian Railway Corporation for providing the necessary cooperation and support.

“Mr President, this is not the end of the story, but merely the beginning. As I said earlier, we are on a long and exciting journey. Much has been accomplished, and there is still much ahead to be done. There will be a total of six Lines on the Lagos Rail Mass Transit System when fully developed. We have already started preliminary work on the next two: the Green and Purple Lines.

“The Green Line is a 71.49-kilometre route from Marina to the Lekki Free Zone, one of the fastest-growing industrial areas on the continent today, and also where we will be siting the new Lagos International Airport.

“The Purple Line is a 54.35-kilometre line from the Redemption Camp to Ojo, near the Lagos State University. The final two lines will be the Orange and the Yellow Lines,” Sanwo-Olu added.

Speaking further on his administration’s developmental strides, the governor said, “In the area of roads, major ongoing and completed projects include the Old Ojo Road in Amuwo-Odofin, the Abiola Onigemo Road in Ifako-Ijaiye, the Ishefun to Camp Davies road in Alimosho; the Agric Isawo – Arepo Road in Ikorodu; the 10-lane Badagry Expressway; the Ojota – Opebi Link Bridge and Approach Roads, and the rebuilding and upgrading of Lekki-Epe Expressway with reinforced concrete, from T-junction, Epe to Abraham Adesanya.

“In the grand tapestry of our development agenda, we are advancing a series of visionary legacy initiatives that span the vital sectors of healthcare, education, tourism, housing, and transportation.

“These include the second phases of our Blue and Red Lines, the pioneering Omu Creek Project, the state-of-the-art Lekki-Epe International Airport, the robust Lagos Food Security Systems and Central Logistics Park, and the transformative Fourth Mainland Bridge.

“We are currently negotiating and completing the financing arrangements for all these projects, and I am pleased to announce that we will break ground on the Fourth Mainland Bridge in April 2024.

“All of these major projects I have outlined are in addition to the multitudes of inner roads, bridges, and junction improvements that we have completed and are completing and are making a huge difference in the daily lives and commutes of millions of residents of Lagos State.

“Each project is a cornerstone in our unwavering commitment to forging a prosperous future for Lagos State and its esteemed citizens.”

The Lagos Red Line rail is a 37-kilometre rail line which stretches from Agbado in Ogun State to the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos.

“The segment we inaugurate today spans an impressive 27 kilometres from Agbado to Oyingbo, featuring state-of-the-art stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and Oyingbo,” Sanwo-Olu added.

FG 42,000MT grains distribution begins with Niger next week.

FG 42,000MT grains distribution begins with Niger next week.

The Federal Government is to commence the distribution of 42,000 metric tonnes of grains across the country beginning with Niger State from next week.

The Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, who announced this on Thursday at the Abuja headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security after a meeting with the agric minister, said Niger would be used as a pilot state before other states would join.

“We are here to discuss with the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security with respect to the visit of Mr President to Niger State as regards the commissioning of the mechanisation process that they have been able to provide for agriculture.

“We also discussed the palliatives from the Federal Government in terms of food distribution from all the grain reserves that we have across the country using Niger State as a pilot in the North-Central so that it can commence in earnest.

“The distribution will commence by next week. What we are saying is that Niger State has provided itself as a pilot state in terms of giving the dividends of democracy with respect to agriculture and as such our sister states are coming on board,” Bago stated.

 President Bola Tinubu had on February 8 directed the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release about 42,000MT of maize, millet and other commodities from the national strategic reserves in order to address the rising cost of food in Nigeria.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this in Abuja after a meeting of the Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention.

Idris had also stated that the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria had committed to releasing about 60,000MT of rice to the markets.

The move followed tension in the country over the rising cost of food.

“The first one is that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has been directed to release about 42,000MT of maize, millet, garri, and other commodities in their strategic reserve so that these items will be made available to Nigerians; 42,000MT immediately.

“The second one is that we have held meetings with the Rice Millers Association of Nigeria. Those who are responsible for producing this rice and we have asked them to open up their stores.

“They’ve told us that they can guarantee about 60,000 metric tons of rice. They will make that available to Nigerians; to bring out to the market to make food available,” the information minister had told journalists.

Also on February 14, 2024, the Federal Government announced that it would distribute the 42,000 metric tonnes of grains approved by the President to poor Nigerians at no cost.

It also announced that the Department of State Services and the National Emergency Management Agency had been engaged in the distribution process to ensure that the commodities get to the targeted citizens nationwide.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, who disclosed this at a ministerial press briefing in Abuja at the time, had further revealed that the government would be supporting 500,000 farmers to cultivate and produce one million metric tonnes of rice.

Meanwhile, Bago told journalists on Thursday that the Niger State Government had acquired 120 trucks of food to complement what the Federal Government was doing so that it could reach more people.

On his part, the agric ministers stated that the distribution of the grains would be based on the template of the National Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Oyebanji Joins President Tinubu, Gov Sanwo-Olu, to commission Lagos Rail Mass Transit.

Oyebanji Joins President Tinubu, Gov Sanwo-Olu, to commission Lagos Rail Mass Transit.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

In a momentous occasion on the 29th of February, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State graced the commissioning of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit (LRMT) Red Line alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the host Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Ikeja Train Station, Lagos State.

During the event, amidst the jubilation and excitement surrounding the inauguration of the LRMT Red Line, President Tinubu engaged in a conversation with Governor Oyebanji, sparking speculation about the nature of their discussion.

President Tinubu's interaction with Governor Oyebanji hinted at more than just a routine exchange. With keen interest, attendees pondered the underlying message conveyed by President Tinubu to His Excellency Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Although the specifics of their conversation remained undisclosed, speculations arose regarding potential future collaborations between the federal government and Ekiti State. President Tinubu's presence and engagement with Governor Oyebanji suggested a deeper interest in the development trajectory of Ekiti State, hinting at the possibility of forthcoming significant projects in the "Land of Honour."

Observers interpreted President Tinubu's interaction as a subtle indication of his awareness of ongoing developments in Ekiti State and a tacit promise of future engagement and support. The anticipation of President Tinubu's visit to commission "something big" in Ekiti State lingered among attendees, fueling excitement and optimism about the state's prospects for growth and development.

As the commissioning of the LRMT Red Line marked a milestone in Lagos's transportation infrastructure, it also served as a platform for inter-state cooperation and collaboration. President Tinubu's presence and conversation with Governor Oyebanji underscored the importance of fostering partnerships to drive progress and prosperity across state borders.

With eyes now turned towards Ekiti State, anticipation mounts as the nation awaits further announcements regarding future projects and collaborations between the federal government and the "Land of Honour," bolstered by the subtle yet significant hints exchanged between President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji during the historic event.

PUNCH holds anniversary lecture, celebrates 50 years of impact.

PUNCH holds anniversary lecture, celebrates 50 years of impact.

Dignitaries from all walks of life trooped out on Thursday to celebrate with PUNCH Nigeria Limited as it held a public lecture as part of events marking its 50th anniversary.

Founded in March 1973, PUNCH, Nigeria’s foremost newspaper, clocked 50 on March 18, 2023, but its Board of Directors moved the 50th-anniversary celebration to this year because the anniversary month fell within an election month and year.

The lecture, held at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, was delivered by the Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, who spoke on the theme: ‘Recovering the Narrative’.

It was graced by government officials, media executives, captains of industries, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, present and former employees of the newspaper, among others.

In attendance were top management staff and members of the company’s board, such as Chairman Emeritus, Chief Ajibola Ogunsola; his wife, Mrs Iyabode Ogunsola; the Chairman, Mrs Angela Emuwa; Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mr Adeyeye Joseph; Directors, Dr Olubunmi Aboderin-Talabi, Omoshalewa Aboderin, Mrs Omowunmi Tunde-Obe, and the immediate-past MD and E-in-C, Mr Ademola Osinubi.

At the opening of the event, Tunde-Obe recited the two stanzas of the national anthem to the admiration of the attendees.

Soyinka was invited to the podium by Aboderin-Talabi, who read his citation, as the compere, Ali Baba, added humour and glamour to the event.

In her welcome address, PUNCH Chairman, Emuwa, noted that 50 years was no mean feat, “and we are grateful to all our long-standing partners and audiences for the journey so far.”

According to her, the title of the lecture is not just a theme, it’s a call to action.

She said, “It is a rallying cry for the media and responsible actors to reclaim their rightful place as the guardians of facts, truth and justice, and the voice of the people.

“This is so because, in a world inundated with information, the power to shape narratives is a formidable responsibility and one that should not be taken lightly.”

She added, “As the most widely-read newspaper in the nation, PUNCH has not only been a witness to history but a key player in shaping narratives.

“Our 50-year resilient is a testament to the power of the press in influencing positive change, upholding the values of democracy, and championing the cause of the people.

“We hope that the impact of our 50-year journey will serve as a source of inspiration to all. We have weathered storms, stood against oppression, and championed the cause of justice, and yet we remain unbowed and unbroken.

“Today, I call upon every one of you to join hands in this crucial mission and stand firm as PUNCH goes into the next 50 years doing what it knows how to do best.”

Emuwa expressed the company’s “deepest gratitude to all our friends who have stood by us over the decades.”

She said, “Your support has been invaluable, and it is your belief in our mission that propels us forward.

“A special acknowledgment goes out to all PUNCHERS, both past and present. You are the heart and soul of this institution. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment have been the driving force behind our success.”

Speaking, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said over the past five decades PUNCH had been a stalwart in journalism, embodying the spirit of integrity and fairness.

Abiodun said the story of PUNCH was that of its founding Chairman, the late Chief James Aboderin, and the legions that had carried on his legacy to date.

“The story cannot be complete without acknowledging the editors, journalists and staff who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to the pursuit of an informed and enlightened society,” he said.

Abiodun also noted that in an era where the media landscape was constantly evolving, PUNCH had consistently adapted, remaining a beacon of reliable information.

“PUNCH Newspaper’s legacy is not only in its longevity but in the impact it has had on shaping the narrative of our nation. Its commitment to investigative journalism and unwavering pursuit of the truth has played a pivotal role in public discourse.

“As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, let us reflect on the power of the press to hold those in power accountable, to give voice to the voiceless and to foster a society built on transparency and accountability,” he said.

The well-attended and colourful event had the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, representing President Bola Tinubu; the Publisher of The Guardian Newspapers Limited, Lady Maiden Ibru; ex-Minister of Industry, Dr Onikepo Akande; ex-Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi; representative of the Delta State Governor, Loveth Idisi; Commissioner for Information, Enugu State, Aka Eze Aka, and a former three-time governorship candidate of the PDP in Lagos State, Mr Jimi Agbaje.

The event also had the wife of ex-Kwara State governor, Mrs Toyin Saraki; Bishop of Lagos Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Ifedola Okupevi, represented by Ven. Adebisi Adebayo; representative of the EFCC Chairman, Mr Micheal Welkast; Senior Special Adviser to the President, Mr. Bayo Onanuga; and the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr Debo Ologunagba.

Also in attendance were the Director-General, National Orientation Agency, Mr Lanre Isa-Onilu; the DG, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo; the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, New Telegraph Newspapers, Mr. Ayodele Aminu; a veteran actress, Mrs. Taiwo Ajayi Lycett; representative of the Taraba State Governor, Emmanuel Bello; former Minister of Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare; the Registrar of JAMB, Prof Is’haq Oloyede; the VC, Caleb University, Prof Nosa Owens-Ibie; an official in the office of the High Commissioner of Canada, HE Jamie Christoff; Executive Director, CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani; former Senior Special Assistant to Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Garba Shehu; Provost, NIJ, Mr Gbenga Adefaye; and Executive Director, Media Career Development Network, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin.

Other attendees included the Corps Marshall, Federal Road Safety Corps, Dauda Ali-Biu; Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi; representative of the Chief of Naval Staf, Air Marshall Edward Gabkwet; representative of the Minister of Police Affairs, Bolaji Kazeem;

Others were the Proprietress, Greenwood House School, Ikoyi, Mrs Ekua Abudu-Akinsanya; renowned accountant, Bashorun J.K. Randle; representative of Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshall FCS Uwakara; member, Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon David Ogunniyi, and Chairman, Sun Publishing, Ms Neya Kalu.

The event was also a reunion of sorts for former employees of PUNCH who also attended. They include the former Editor, The PUNCH, Mr Bola Bolawole; former Editor, The PUNCH/former Provost, NIJ, Mr Gbemiga Ogunleye; former Editor, Sunday PUNCH, Casmir Igbokwe; former Editor, The PUNCH, Mr Martin Ayankola; ex-Manager, Training and Language Control, Mr Seth Akintoye; former Chairman, Punch Editorial Board; Mr Segun Adediran; former Editor, Saturday PUNCH; Dr Olabisi Deji-Folutile, former Assistant Editor (Politics), The PUNCH, Semiu Okanlawon; and former Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Mr Bayo Alabidun; and Mr Muyiwa Adetiba, among others.

The week-long 50th-anniversary celebration and 40th remembrance of the passing of the founding Chairman of Punch Nigeria Limited, the late Chief Olu Aboderin, began last Saturday with a colourful novelty football match at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos.

On Wednesday, a three-day photo exhibition, showcasing iconic photographs from PUNCH’s rich archive, opened at the Alliance Francaise de Lagos/Mike Adenuga Centre in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Zulum flags off food distribution to alleviate sufferings in Borno.

Zulum flags off food distribution to alleviate sufferings in Borno.

....100,000 households to benefit in Maiduguri, Jere.

...200,000 households targeted, including 7 LGAs in Southern Borno.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has begun the distribution of food items to over 100,000 households in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere Local Government Area. The distribution aims to alleviate the hardship caused by the rising costs of essential commodities in the state. Governor Zulum officially kicked off the distribution at the Maiduguri Sports Centre, where each household received a 25kg bag of rice and another bag of maize.

Speaking to journalists, Governor Zulum emphasized the importance of continuous support to the people in order to address the prevailing hardship. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to prioritize the welfare of the people, particularly those facing extreme difficulties due to the Boko Haram insurgency. Governor Zulum also acknowledged the global nature of the current economic crisis, extending its impact to Borno State.

Furthermore, Governor Zulum announced that the distribution of palliatives would be extended from 100,000 households to over 200,000 families, covering additional areas including seven local government areas in southern Borno. He explained that communities affected by insurgency often experience food shortages due to limited access to agricultural land. Governor Zulum assured the residents that palliative distribution would continue as long as he remains in office, while also investing in agriculture to address the underlying causes of food crisis.

Governor Zulum urged those without a means of livelihood to engage in agriculture and promised them necessary support, such as free buses, agricultural inputs, and cash assistance. He also highlighted the agricultural schemes implemented by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and emphasized Borno State's commitment to strengthening irrigation and commercial farming.

However, Governor Zulum sternly warned against individuals attempting to disrupt peacebuilding efforts or exploit the food crisis for political gain. He stated that anyone who incites public disturbances or politicizes the food crisis would face severe consequences.

Under Governor Zulum's administration, Borno State has been distributing food palliatives since 2011, and the government will continue to do its best to mitigate the effects of hardship on its citizens. The governor urged the public to exercise patience and assured them that the government is actively addressing the crisis.

Traders seek governor’s help to stop market takeover.

Traders seek governor’s help to stop market takeover.

White Sand Market traders in Lagos Mainland have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to stop alleged bid by the council to take over the market.

.Their leader, Alhaja Sherifat Thanni, said the council Chairman, Mrs Omolola Essien, threatened to take over the market despite a court order.

Thanni said Justice Akinkunmi Idowu of the High Court directed them to meet with her for settlement, adding they did not get a response to their letter requesting a meeting.

The court, in suit LD/7078GCM/23, restrained the council and attorney-general from taking over the market pending determination of the suit.

Thanni said in 2001, council sought to rebuild the market, which they built themselves and had been maintaining.

They said council brought in another contractor in 2014 to reconstruct the drainage, for which they paid N20 milllion.

For some reason, the project was not done and was left for the traders to handle yet again.

“Now the council said they want to demolish the market because of the drainage. We are tired of their extortion…” Thanni said.

 The traders urged the governor to ensure the contractor completed the drainage work they paid for.

They also want Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the continuous threat by the council to take over the market.

Lagos Red Line rail will boost economy – Minister.

Lagos Red Line rail will boost economy – Minister.

The Minister of Transport, Sa’id Alkali, has urged other states to emulate Lagos, saying the success of its Red Line Rail project exemplified collaboration between the federal and state governments.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Alkali said collaborative efforts between the federal and state governments enhanced the well-being of the nation and its economy.

At the official commissioning of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line on Thursday by President Bola Tinubu, the minister also pledged the support of the ministry to the Lagos State government.

He added that the ministry would work together with some state governors to achieve railway connection to enable choice of transportation for passengers, urging the governors to emulate Lagos.

The minister said, “I assure you that the Federal Ministry of Transportation is committed to providing support and expertise to consolidate this laudable achievement.

“Today’s inauguration is a singular promise in achieving this milestone in our administration. This will lead to high connectivity, improve livelihood, boost trade and improve visibility.

“The Federal Ministry of Transportation will support the realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President,” he said.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Cui Jianchun, commended Nigeria for giving them the opportunity to complete the Blue Line project.

Jianchun said, “Mr President, today in China we celebrate an auspicious day which is a symbol of good things, and this shows that the commencement of the Red Line project today will be more successful.

“I also congratulate Mr President for making the 20-year project completed and we also want to use this opportunity to improve more on infrastructure and technology.

“There is a need to improve more on security which will improve the country’s economic Gross Domestic Product generation.”

The Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, said the commissioning of the project would not have been possible without President Tinubu’s vision during his tenure as governor of Lagos with the establishment of the Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority.

NAN reports that the Red Line project is a 37km rail route from Agbado to Marina with stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushing, Yaba, Oyingbo, Iddo, Ebute Ero and Marina.

Tinubu commends outgoing Immigration CG.

Tinubu commends outgoing Immigration CG.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the outgoing Comptroller-General of Immigration Service (CGIS), Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju, for exceptional service to the country.

During the pull-out parade ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Interior Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo expressed gratitude to the retiring immigration boss for successful implementation of reforms, clearing passport backlogs, and enhancing security at border posts.

The Minister said: “On behalf of the President of Nigeria, I extend appreciation to the outgoing Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service for her outstanding contributions. She not only elevated the standards of the Service but also positively impacted millions in our society.

“Conceiving ideas is one thing, but executing them flawlessly is another. I commend you for your role in implementing the reforms we collaborated on, including clearing over 200,000 passport backlogs within two weeks.

“Additionally, the imminent launch of the command-and-control center, alongside revamped security measures at our border posts, reflects our joint commitment to enhancing national security.

“I am particularly grateful for your exemplary leadership. Throughout your tenure, not once did I encounter a crisis that required my intervention. You fostered a sense of unity within your team, treating them like family”.

Adepoju expressed gratitude to God, the President, the Minister of Interior, colleagues, and Nigerians for their support.

She praised her team, declaring them the best ever assembled by the Nigeria Immigration Service and urged support for ongoing reforms, ensuring citizens’ respite in passport acquisition.

“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to God, the President, and all stakeholders for their support throughout my tenure. It’s been an honour to lead the Nigeria Immigration Service, and I commend my dedicated team for their hard work and commitment.

“As I bid farewell, I urge my successors to continue the positive reforms we initiated for the benefit of our nation and its citizens. Under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, we have made significant strides in improving passport acquisition and enhancing border security.

“I’m confident that the incoming leadership, under Comptroller General Kemi Nana Nandap, will further advance the service and uphold its values,” Adepoju said.

Incoming Comptroller General, Kemi Nana Nandap, lauded the outgoing CGIS for her outstanding contributions, describing her tenure as marked by diligence, sacrifice, and selflessness.

Nandap said: “Today, we celebrate the remarkable career of outgoing CGIS Wura-Ola Adepoju, whose dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on the Nigeria Immigration Service.”

The event saw attended by the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional Fire and Immigration Board, Ahmed Ja’Afaru, Chairman House Committee on Interior, Ahmed Abdullahi, the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, the Director Joint Service in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Peter Egbodo, among others.

Ekiti First Lady Rallies Support Of Female Traditional Chiefs For Oyebanji.

Ekiti First Lady Rallies Support Of Female Traditional Chiefs For Oyebanji. 

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has solicited the support of Ekiti Female Traditional Chiefs for Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s led Administration. 

She made this known during a meeting with the traditional female Chiefs from the 16 local government areas and the 22 local council development areas of the state in her office in Ado-Ekiti.  

Dr. Oyebanji promised to always carry the female chiefs along in the activities of her office saying they are the representatives of female folks at the grassroots, hence the need for them to be part of the government activities. 

The Governor’s wife used the medium to appeal to the women to cooperate with the government by counselling the market women to bring down the prices of food and other essential commodities in the market. 

She assured that the present economic hardship is just for a while, appealing to residents of the State to cooperate with the government by ensuring that life was made easier for common man. 

Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi appreciated the female chiefs for their support for the government. 

The Commissioner who spoke through the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Tayo Olatiilu urged the female chiefs to always make themselves available for women's activities in the State especially the ones that would be organized by the ministry.

Also speaking, the President of the Association, Chief Mrs Iyabo Idowu, Eyelua of Orun-Ekiti, promised that the female chiefs and other women in Ekiti would continue to support the present administration in the state.

There were goodwill messages from the Special Adviser to the governor on Gender Mobilization and Empowerment, Mrs. Kemisola Olaleye and other government officials.

Senate extends retirement age of NASS staff to 65.

Senate extends retirement age of NASS staff to 65.

The Senate on Thursday, February 29, passed a Bill that seeks to add five years to the retirement age of staff of the National Assembly Service.

If the Bill is signed into law, staff of the National Assembly Service would now retire at age 65 years instead of 60 years and 40 years in service instead of 35 years.

The Bill titled: “A Bill for an Act to Make Provisions for the Retirement Age of Staff of National Assembly Service and for Other Related Matters, 2024,” transmitted to the Senate from the House of Representatives for concurrence was last week stepped down by the red chamber to allow for further consultation.

In reintroducing the Bill, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the needed consultations had been done and the Bill was now fit for passage.

The Nation earlier reported that there was tension among staff of the National Assembly over the planned extension of the tenure of the current Clerk, Sani Magaji Tambawal, and over 200 staff due for retirement in November this year would have their tenures extended by five years.

However, the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), in a statement in Abuja endorsed the Bill.

Wike approves promotion of 8,785 FCTA staff.

Wike approves promotion of 8,785 FCTA staff.

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the promotion of 8,785 Staff of the FCT Administration.

The Ag. Permanent Secretary of Federal Capital Territory Administration, Udo Samuel Atang, who disclosed this on Thursday, said 8,785 personnel, who sat for the promotion examination and passed were promoted to the next rank under the Public Service Rules.

Accordingly, out of the 9,710 Officers that participated in the process, 8,785 were successful and promoted to their next Grade Level.

The breakdown of the promotion shows that out of 9,710 Officers across the various Secretariats, Departments, and Agencies (SDAs) that participated in the 2023 Examination Exercise, 925 were unsuccessful.

Further analysis shows that out of the 3,924 eligible Officers of Common Services Departments that took part in the examination, 3,295 Staff were promoted.

Similarly, out of the 933 Professional and Technical Officers who participated in the examination, 918 were promoted; while out of the 1,179 Health Officers, who sat for the examination,1,144 were elevated.

According to a statement by the Director of Information & Communication, FCT, Muhammad Hazat Sule said: “Consequently, out of the 3,674 Education Officers and Assistant Education Officers that participated in the exercise, 3,428 were promoted.

“Atang, who commended the FCT Minister for his prompt approval, revealed that the approval for the promotion by the Minister came within 24hrs upon submission.

“He noted that the Minister recognizes the commitments and hard work of the Staff and encourages them to double their efforts in the service to the FCT Administration and the fatherland.

“The Acting Permanent Secretary, therefore, urged all Staff of the Administration to reciprocate the Minister’s kind gesture by supporting the leadership of the Administration to deliver on Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the Ministerial Performance Bond for Presidential Priorities and Deliverables.”

Reps to present amended 1999 Constitution to Tinubu for assent in August 2025.

Reps to present amended 1999 Constitution to Tinubu for assent in August 2025.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu (APC, Abia) said on Thursday, February 29, that the first draft of the amended 1999 Constitution will be ready by August 2024, saying the House is expected to adopt the final copy of the document in May 2025.

Kalu, who heads the House Constitution Review Committee, said at a press conference that a clean copy of the resolutions of the National Assembly is expected to be available for concurrence by the state Assembly between May 29 and June 13, 2025.

The Deputy Speaker, who outlined the committee’s road map for the Constitution review, said the House will embark on a zonal hearing to collate views of Nigerians in October 2024.

He added that the views collated by the House will be harmonised with the Senate Committee at a technical retreat scheduled for between February 27 and 28, 2025

He said further that the Harmonised document from the retreat will be presented before the House in March 2025, while members will vote on the bills agreed on at that committee level by the 22nd of May, 2025.

Kalu emphasised that the House set a December 2025 deadline for completion of its assignment so that issues being debated will not be tainted with political consideration and delays.

He also announced the appointment of consultants that will assist the committee in carrying out its assignment.

He said the House is working towards presenting the amended Constitution to the President for his assent by August 2025, to give home ample time to study the amendments.

Kalu said memoranda was being expected from Executive and Judicial bodies, State Governments, Women Groups, Academics, Civil Society Organizations, Labour Unions, Professional bodies, Ethnic Nationalities, Nigerians in the Diaspora, Diplomats and the general public.

He said memoranda was expected from Nigerians in the area of the Federal Structure and Power Devolution, Local Government Autonomy, Public Revenue, Fiscal Federation, and Revenue Allocation of Nigerian Police and Nigerian Security Architecture and Comprehensive Judicial Reforms.

They are also expecting memoranda on Electoral Reforms to strengthen INEC to deliver transparent, credible, free and fair elections, Socio-economic and cultural rights as contained in Chapter 2 of the constitution, Traditional Institutions, Issues of Gender, Strengthening the Independence of oversight institutions and agencies created by the constitution or according to an Act of the National Assembly.

It also includes Residency and Indigene Provisions, Immunity, the National Assembly Process of state creation and State access to mining and other matters that will promote good governance and the welfare of all persons in our country on the principles of freedom, Equality, and Justice.

Cement price hike: NIQS throws support for importation.

Cement price hike: NIQS throws support for importation.

.…Hail Tinubu for clampdown of BDC operators over forex.

President of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), Kene Nzekwe has thrown his support behind the federal government‘s threat to cement manufacturers to open the borders for cement importation in the country if they fail to reduce cement prices.

He said presently, cement manufacturers are holding the country to ransom with about a 100 percent to 150 percent increase in price within just six weeks.

Nzekwe advised the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Dangiwa to not just threaten the manufacturers but work on opening the borders to importation if the manufacturers refuse to play ball.

The President said inflation is part of economic cycles but what Nigeria is currently facing is hyperinflation, which is an uncontrollable surge in general price levels.

He made the statement yesterday in Abuja at a press conference organised by the Institute on addressing the impact of hyperinflation on the Nigerian construction industry: the urgent need for government intervention for stabilizing construction costs in Nigeria.

He said: “We support the Minister’s threat to cement manufacturers in the country about opening the border for importation and we hope it goes beyond threats and the government actually does it because the manufacturers are holding Nigeria to ransom.

“The price of cement, using a 50kg bag as an indicator, between January 2024 and February 2024 a period of about six weeks, has increased from N4,500 to between N12,000-N13,000. This is an increase of between 100% to 150%. Reinforcement steel rods, another major material for construction moved from around N590,000 -N650,000 per ton as of January 2024 to N1,200,000 -N1,400,000 as of February 2024 an increase of over 100% in a short run of less than six weeks.

“This ugly trend is making it more difficult for prospective clients to afford construction projects and has forced many projects to stall, pushing contractors into financial distress. The repercussions extend beyond stalled projects; it impedes the development of crucial infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and educational facilities. Private sector investors are also reluctant, creating an adverse cycle that hampers economic growth and job losses in the construction Industry.”

He added: “On stabilizing the exchange rate, the government must employ a mix of monetary policies and exchange rate policies to stabilise the exchange rate, making our currency competitive globally. The clamp down on saboteur Bureau de Change (BDC) that are distorting our economy should be sustained and the system cleansed until all forex transactions are transparently done in a regulated manner not hawking currency on the streets as it is currently being done.”

Nzekwe added that the knee-jerk reaction of persuading manufacturers to bring down the prices or face dire consequences at this stage may be counter-productive.

He said: “Our recommendation will be for the government to sustain engagement with local construction material manufacturers to understand and address their challenges. Some of the challenges highlighted by the local manufacturers include exchange rate volatility which has seen our currency depreciate by about 300% in a few months thereby affecting the imported components of their manufacturing like spare parts, mining explosives and import tariff which is indexed in US Dollars.”

Don’t impose imam on us, Islamic clerics urge Osun Gov.

Don’t impose imam on us, Islamic clerics urge Osun Gov.

A group of clerics from Inisa town in Osun State has advised the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to allow due process in the selection of the next Chief Imam of Inisa Central Mosque.

On Friday, December 1, 2023, Inisa Central Mosque reopened for Jumaat prayers after being locked for about five years, following disagreement among the congregation on the choice of a candidate that would fill the post of Chief Imam.

The tussle had polarised the congregation into two groups, with each backing different candidates.

Presenting updates on the issue to journalists in Osogbo on Thursday, the leader of the group, Abdulrasaq Amad, advised Adeleke to allow due process according to Islamic injunctions to prevail in the selection.

Amad, who said the tussle was already a subject of litigation before an Osun State High Court, lamented that the current industrial action by members of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria in the state, which has prevented the court from sitting since last November, was delaying the hearing of the case.

He said the appeal to Adeleke was a sequel to the decision of those acting on behalf of the governor to openly support one of the two groups involved in the tussle, insisting that the court should be allowed to adjudicate on the matter.

He added, “Setting the records straight, the Central Mosque of Inisa was never closed down by the order of any court, rather the court gave an order restraining both parties from parading themselves as Chief Imam of Inisa or performing any duty or function of chief Imam of Inisa pending the determination of the case.

“We want to call on the governor to please stay away from this matter, and allow Inisha indigenes home and abroad who have vast knowledge on how a Chief Imam is being selected, to carry out the process.

“We also urge the Olunisa of Inisa, Oba Joseph Oyedele, all the chiefs to please stay away from the Chief Imam selection process and allow due Islamic process be followed.

“We want due process like screening, qualities, exams among others Islamic process of selecting Imam be carried out.”

When contacted for reaction, Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. Kolapo Alimi, absolved Adeleke of any wrongdoing.

He said government intervention was to prevent a breakdown of law and order, noting that clerics across the county called on the governor to intervene.

Alimi, who urged anyone dissatisfied with the intervention to be patient, said what Adeleke did regarding the disagreement would not in any way affect the pending case.

Umahi charges BUA Cement to do more on price reduction.

Umahi charges BUA Cement to do more on price reduction.

The Minister for Works, Senator David Umahi, has charged the management of BUA Cement with the need to further reduce the prices of cement in the market.

Umahi stated this in Sokoto on Thursday when he led members of his management team to the headquarters of the company in Sokoto.

The Federal Government and cement manufacturers resolved that prices of cement would be reduced to between N7,000 and N8,000.

However, checks by The PUNCH showed that retail prices increased from N7,000 to N9,500, and N13,000 nationwide as of Wednesday, February 21, 2024.

The minister said the Federal Government is embarking on 372 kilometers of road, dual carriageway spanning from Kaduna to Sokoto State.

“I am here to see things for myself, as you are aware, the Federal Government is currently embarking on 372 dual kilometers of road of which the first phase will be done with asphalt, while the step-down will be done with concrete.

“If you calculate the 372 kilometers, because it is a dual carriageway into two will give us a total of 744 kilometers.

“The second 372 kilometers will be conducted with pure concrete in line with the renewed hope agenda of Mr President.

“When the chairman of the company visited Mr President last week, he assured that the 5th line will soon commence operation, and with my visit here, I can confirm the 5th line, though waiting yet to be commissioned has already commenced operation”

He however commended the management of the company for ensuring cleanliness within the entire premises of the company.

“I must commend you for ensuring absolute cleanliness within the environment of the company. It is also worth mentioning that no loitering around of staff in the company, this is a commendable development and I want you to keep it up”.

Also speaking, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, commended BUA management for living up to expectations in the discharge of its responsibilities.

He also appealed to the management of the company to in addition to improved capacity in its production ensure the availability of the product to the masses at affordable prices to meet up with the current administration of housing for all.

Speaking earlier in his welcome address, Managing Director of BUA Cement, Engineer Yusuf Binji, assured that with the fifth line, the company will ensure massive production of the product in the company.

He said the increase in the production of cement will further push down the price of the product in the market.

ASUU sends SOS to Taraba gov over N1.7bn unpaid allowances.

ASUU sends SOS to Taraba gov over N1.7bn unpaid allowances.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Taraba State University chapter, on Thursday, appealed to Governor Agbu Kefas to pay the N1.7 billion accumulated earned Academic and promotional allowances owed to staff of the university since 2014.

This is even as the Union lamented the prolonged delay in the payment of their withheld salaries, noting that with each day passing without the payment of these outstanding salaries, the financial strain on their members intensifies, pushing them further into distress and uncertainty.

Addressing a press conference at the ASUU house at the Taraba State University, the Chairperson of the Union, Dr. Garba Mbave, said the non-payment of promotion arrears and withheld salaries not only create financial strain for members but also erodes their morale and diminishes their trust in the fairness and integrity of the institution.

“These situations we have been subjected to have the potential to disrupt industrial harmony and compromise the productivity and effectiveness of our workforce.

“The prolonged delay in the payment of Earned Academic Allowance has created significant discontent and frustration among our members. The non-payment of these allowances not only undermines the commitment and dedication of our academic staff but also poses a threat to the overall industrial harmony within our educational institution.

“The accumulation of these unpaid allowances since 2014 has only exacerbated the grievances and discontent among our academic staff. We urge the government to take decisive action to address this pressing issue and prioritise the prompt payment of the outstanding Earned Academic Allowances and withheld salaries owed to our members.

“Without a pension scheme in place for members of staff, we are faced with the challenges of financial insecurity and uncertainty. This is an unacceptable situation that highlights the urgent need for action.”

While commending the governor for the renovation of students’ hostels and slashing of fees for undergraduate students, the union urged the government to take decisive action on the issues of outstanding earned academic allowances, withheld salaries, promotional arrears, and construction of a parameter fence for the university.

Review Oronsaye, other reports before implementation, Reps urge Tinubu.

Review Oronsaye, other reports before implementation, Reps urge Tinubu.

The House of Representatives has urged President Bola Tinubu to thoroughly review the Stephen Oronsaye Report as well as other reports aimed at revamping the Nigerian civil service before implementation.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan had, in 2012, set up a Presidential Committee on the rationalisation and restructuring of the Federal Government Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies.

The committee, headed by former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Stephen Oronsaye, recommended the scrapping and merging of 220 out of the then-existing 541 government agencies.

Moving a motion of urgent public importance on the floor of the House on Thursday, the trio of Kama Nkemkanma, Olumide Osoba and Gaza Gbefi noted that the Oronsonye Report “recommended the reduction of statutory agencies from 263 to 161, the abolition of 38 agencies, and the reversion of 14 to departments in ministries and the management audit of 89 agencies capturing biometric features of staff, as well as the discontinuation of government funding of professional bodies/councils.”

The lawmakers further added that if implemented, the government would be saving over N862 billion between 2012 and 2015 with a breakdown which showed that “about N124.8bn would be reduced from agencies proposed for abolition; about N100.6bn from agencies proposed for mergers; about N6.6bn from professional bodies; N489.9bn from universities; N50.9bn from polytechnics; N32.3bn from colleges of education and N616 million from boards of Federal Medical Centres.”

They argued however that the White Paper committee set up by Jonathan’s administration rejected most of the recommendations, while those accepted were not implemented.

“The House notes that in November 2021, President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration inaugurated two committees. One of the committees chaired by Goni Aji, a retired Head of Civil Service of the Federation, was to review the Orosanye report and the second committee, chaired by Ama Pepple, also a retired Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, was constituted to review agencies created between 2014 and 2021;

“The House also notes that upon submission of their reports, the Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government in July 2022 set up another committee chaired by Ebele Okeke, a former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to produce a white paper on the reports.”

That said, the lawmaker also noted that implementing the Oronsaye Report 12 years after it was first made, “which ordinarily may be described as outdated, especially because of how dynamic the society, economy, polity, technology and all facets of our national life has been,” may not be in the best interest of the nation.

They stated, “Contrary to the assumption that the full implementation of the report would reduce the cost of governance; with the current realities, the full implementation of the report will not substantially reduce the cost of governance as it does not reflect the current situation in the Public Service of the Federation,” stressing that a full implementation “will certainly throw up unintended consequences, implications and outcomes.”

Following the adoption of the motion, the House urged Tinubu to “comprehensively review the 2012 Orosanye Report, the Goni Aji Report which reviewed Orosanye Report, the White Paper released by the President Jonathan administration, the Ama Pepple White Paper and the Ebele Okeke White Paper in line with current realities, while considering implementable alternatives that are in tune with current realities, and which at the same time would have minimum unintended consequences, impacts, implications and outcomes.”

It also urged the FG to develop and implement policies “that will reposition the agricultural sector, the solid mineral sector and the informal sectors which will serve as alternatives to those that may be laid off consequentially while at the same time spurring economic growth.”

Kwara clears teachers, LG workers’ salary arrears with N3bn.

Kwara clears teachers, LG workers’ salary arrears with N3bn.

The Kwara State Government has cleared all the salary arrears for SUBEB teachers and local government workers inherited from the administration of former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed.

This was contained in a statement released on Thursday by the Press Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Babatunde Toyin Abdulrasheed.

According to the statement, figures from the last allocation meeting of the local government showed that the government committed N1,297,389,165.83 to clear the balance of the arrears owed to the SUBEB teachers.

It added that another N1,622,673,992.12 was apportioned to clear the balance of the arrears for the local government workers in the past administration, according to the data from the allocation meeting.

“Between January 2020 and January 2024, the administration has spent at least N5.5bn to offset the arrears of salary for SUBEB teachers, local government workers and local government pensioners alone – apart from meeting its multibillion naira monthly obligations to these categories of workers and many others since it was elected in 2019.

“The government meanwhile has approved cash-backing for the implementation of 2022 promotion for teaching and non-teaching staff of the SUBEB, a decision that is part of the government’s efforts to boost the purchasing powers of workers at this time.

“Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has constantly said he would clear all the salary and promotion arrears he inherited from his predecessor, a campaign promise he has fulfilled in phases since he assumed office in 2019.

“The final settlement of the SUBEB and Local Government salary arrears brings to a close the consistent agitation for the payment of the money, which dated back to 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019,” the statement added.

Heads of justice ministry’s agencies sign performance bond.

Heads of justice ministry’s agencies sign performance bond.

Heads of different agencies under the supervision of the Ministry of Justice have signed a performance bond with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi.

The agencies under the ministry are the National Human Rights Commission; the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency; the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Study; the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria; the Nigeria Law Reform Commission and the Nigeria Copyright Commission.

Others are the Council for Legal Education; the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and the Regional Centre for International Commercial Arbitration among others.

Ministers, presidential aides, and permanent secretaries had in November 2023 signed a performance bond with the president which is expected to serve as a scorecard for implementing the Ministerial Deliverables and other Government Programmes and Policies.

They were, however, asked to cascade the gestures down to Agencies/Parastatals under their supervision.

Speaking at the event, on Wednesday, Fagbemi said the bond would serve as a metric for evaluating their performance.

The AGF noted that he expects a high level of performance among all agency heads, in line with their stated commitments.

Fagbemi said, “I must state that I will hold every Head of Agency to the highest standard of performance in line with the declarations you have made today. It is therefore imperative that you cascade the contents of your presentation to all levels of leadership in your agencies to ensure performance on the job and a clear understanding of your mandates under the performance bond.”

Fagbemi noted that the Justice Sector Plan contains 15 Ministerial Deliverables; 49 Key Performance Indicators; BBaselinesand Targets.

He noted that he had assigned roles to heads of agencies in that regard.

“You may therefore recall that at the retreat in January 2024, I had directed that Heads of Agencies set up internal Committees to carry out the following responsibilities: Peruse the Ministerial deliverables to discover your role in ensuring optimal performance of the Presidential priorities (Sector Plan 2023-2027). Draw up the 2024 work plan from the initiatives captured in your Strategic Plan, ” he added.

He, however, urged the heads of the agencies to embark on initiatives that would improve public service delivery strategies in the justice sector.

Fagbemi said, “It is undoubted that the justice sector is key towards ensuring socio-economic development of the nation, through improved access to justice. Access to justice in this regard calls for synergy between MDAs in ensuring legal protection, legal awareness, legal aid and counsel, adjudication, enforcement, and supporting sustainable peace and security through effective alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.”

The Permanent Secretary and the Solicitor General of the Federation, Beatrice Jedy-Agba assured the agencies that the ministry would provide the needed support to surmount their threats and weaknesses.

Jedy-Agba said, ” I would like to assure you that the Honourable Minister and I will critically study your presentations to address your Weaknesses and Threats and provide the necessary support for harnessing your Strengths and Opportunities to enhance your abilities to deliver on your various mandates "