PDP loses National Woman Leader, Effah-Attoe.

PDP loses National Woman Leader, Effah-Attoe.

The Peoples Democratic Party has announced the death of its National Woman Leader, Prof. Stella Effah-Attoe.

Effah-Attoe, a member of the PDP National Working Committee, according to the family, died on Sunday after a brief illness.

PDP in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, on Sunday, described Effah-Attoe’s death as a huge blow to the nation.

The statement read in part “Prof. Effah-Attoe was very brilliant, towering and magnificent in all spheres, but yet lived an exceptionally humble, pleasant, sociable, gracious, compassionate and loving life. She touched lives in many positive ways and made pivotal contributions towards the growth and development of our Nation.

“She was a dedicated teacher, politician, author, and fearless mobilizer who always stood for the truth; fought for justice, equity, and fairness and gave her energy, passion, and resources in the pursuit of the rights of women in Nigeria.

“Over the years, as Commissioner for Education and later Commissioner for Information and Culture in Cross River State, member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, member of Governing Board of several Cross River State and Federal Government Agencies and Programmes; a University Professor and one of the most decorated scholars in Nigeria, she distinguished herself as an amazon with extraordinary intellectual capacity for leadership and national service.

“As the National Woman Leader of our great Party, she brought an uncommon intellectual aptitude into Party administration, especially in mobilizing women for greater participation in politics and governance.

“The PDP will always remember her tireless contributions alongside other PDP leaders in the effort to rebrand and strengthen our great Party in the build-up to the 2023 general elections in line with the mission to rescue, rebuild, and redirect our nation from misrule.”

Ologunagba who said Effah-Attoe’s death has left a huge vacuum in the PDP, added that they take solace in the fact that she lived a devout Christian life, triumphed in her chosen path, and left indelible marks in the service of the Nation and humanity.

Gbajabiamila chides critics, says president’s team not driven by money politics.

Gbajabiamila chides critics, says president’s team not driven by money politics.

The Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila on Sunday, October 29, chided critics peddling rumours that he would be sacked by the Commander-in-Chief

He said the rumours were a figment of imagination by the peddlers, adding that President Tinubu’s team is not driven by money politics.

In  his verified Twitter handle, Gbajabiamila said he is focussed Chief of Staff, whose attention cannot be distracted by rumours mongers.”

The statement read: “The government’s commitment to its objectives remains resolute, and it is clear that they intend to persevere through challenges or distractions that may arise.

“There have been rumblings in political circles, with some labeling the Chief of Staff as an obstruction to progress, and speculating about potential removal.

 However, the Chief of Staff remains unfazed by the rumors and took to Twitter to set the record straight.

“In a recent tweet, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the “renewed hope agenda” and its promise to deliver good governance to the Nigerian people. He emphasized that this agenda is not driven by personal gain or politics motivated by financial interests. The focus is unwavering, and no amount of propaganda will sway it.

“The Chief of Staff stated that the government has a critical assignment to fulfill, and the objectives will not be derailed by baseless accusations from unverifiable sources. He reassured Nigerians that the President and his dedicated team will stay on course and deliver without being distracted.

“In his message, he stressed that it is not the time to be sidetracked or allow divisive tactics to interfere with the noble aim. The government remains committed to its mission, and they will continue to work diligently towards achieving their goals.

“While the rumors of the Chief of Staff’s potential removal may persist, his tweet serves as a clear statement of resolve from within the administration. “The government’s focus is on the “renewed hope agenda” and the promise of good governance for the people of Nigeria, unwavering and undeterred by external noise.

“The government’s commitment to its objectives remains resolute, and it is clear that they intend to persevere through challenges or distractions that may arise.”

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Visits Nigeria, Holds Bilateral Meeting with President Tinubu.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Visits Nigeria, Holds Bilateral Meeting with President Tinubu.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz arrived in Abuja on Sunday afternoon, October 29, for a significant visit to Nigeria. This marks his first visit to the nation since assuming office in December 2021, and it carries substantial diplomatic and economic significance.

The distinguished visitor touched down at the Villa at 03:40 pm (local time) and was warmly received. His visit is not limited to the capital, as Scholz has plans to engage with business leaders in Lagos on Monday, October 30, highlighting the potential for increased economic cooperation between the two nations.

The roots of this visit extend back to the 18th G20 Summit held in India, where Chancellor Scholz had an opportunity to meet with President Tinubu. During this summit, Scholz conveyed his keen interest in visiting Nigeria. In his remarks, the German Chancellor acknowledged the business-friendly reforms implemented by President Tinubu's administration, citing them as a catalyst for further economic collaboration.

"We acknowledge the business-friendly reforms you have put in place," Scholz stated. "I am happy to inform you of my desire to visit you in Nigeria in October, which will allow us to carry forward these initiatives."

The visit is seen as a step towards strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues for cooperation between Germany and Nigeria. With a focus on business-friendly reforms and enhanced economic ties, both nations anticipate the visit will yield positive outcomes for their respective economies and foster collaboration on various fronts.

House Of Representatives Reacts To IGP’S Directive On Compulsory Treatment Of Gunshot Victims Act.

House Of Representatives Reacts To IGP’S Directive On Compulsory Treatment Of Gunshot Victims Act. 

The House of Representatives welcomes the recent publicised signal from the Office of the Inspector-General of Police to various formations and commands of the Nigeria Police Force, on the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act 2017.

The internal memo dated October 25, 2023 directed the Officers to comply with the law and enforce its provision without hesitation.

Worthy of note in the memo signed by the IGP’s Principal Staff Officer, CSP Olatunji Disu, is the directive to the various police formations and commands to "make the law a subject of lecture" in order to cure the ignorance in many hospitals about the position of the law, which unfortunately has led to the loss of many lives.

It is to be noted that issues around compliance with the Compulsory Treatment and Care for Victims of Gunshot Act recently became a subject of public discourse following the death of Ms. Greatness Olorunfemi, a brilliant Nigerian who was victim of a _one-chance_ robbery in Abuja on Tuesday, September 26, 2023. 

A petition was laid before the House in respect of this incident during plenary on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, by Hon. Chris Nkwonta representing Ukwa East/West Federal Constituency of Abia State. The matter is now before the House Committee on Public Petitions.

To be clear, the House maintains that the professional calling of physicians, nurses, and emergency care personnel, as well as dictates of extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, prescribes that every Nigerian brought to any hospital deserves the duty of care, stabilisation, and dignity, regardless of the condition they are brought in, or the apparent cause of the distress or trauma.

The House therefore views this development from the Nigeria Police Force as timely and commendable considering rising complaints by Nigerians about hospitals that decline prompt treatment of victims of gunshot incidents, robberies, and even vehicular accidents who do not present police reports.

The IG's action offers relief that value is placed on the life of every citizen, and restores confidence in our hospitals.

The House urges the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Medical Association to follow through on this commitment to strict compliance with the Act and prosecute offenders who contravene the same. We also call on the Media and relevant agencies of the Executive Arm of Government to give wide publicity to this matter. 

Jointly Signed:

Rep. Makki Abubakar Yalleman

Chairman, House Committee on Police Affairs

Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr.

House Spokesman / Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs

October 29, 2023

Reps Take Delivery of N160bn SUVs, Emphasize National Assembly Ownership

Reps Take Delivery of N160bn SUVs, Emphasize National Assembly Ownership.

Members of the House of Representatives have commenced the phased receipt of their Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), with the final installment expected before December. The House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, confirmed this development during a conversation with journalists in Abuja.

In an effort to underscore the ownership of these vehicles, the management of the House issued an internal circular to all members, explicitly stating that the SUVs are the property of the National Assembly and must not be sold.

An anonymous source familiar with the matter explained, "This particular Assembly is very particular about things being done right. In previous assemblies, people would collect their vehicles and sell them off, but the Speaker has put his foot down against such. The spokesperson was mandated to issue a statement internally to members and ensure that no member must sell their vehicles as they are National Assembly property."

The management is closely monitoring members' use of the vehicles to ensure they are employed for legislative purposes. The decision to purchase these SUVs and bulletproof vehicles for principal officers has been the subject of much controversy and public discussion.

The Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA) criticized the move, citing insensitivity to the plight of Nigerians. Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project also sought a court injunction to halt the procurement of these vehicles.

The Senate, however, defended the purchase, asserting that lawmakers require the vehicles for their official duties.

According to Akin Rotimi, priority was given to female lawmakers, individuals with disabilities, and those without pending court cases. He noted, "Some members have started taking delivery of their vehicles. Priority was given to women in the parliament, people with any form of disability, and the elderly. The management has also ensured that only members who have been fully disposed of their court cases will be given the vehicles to avoid problems."

The vehicles are set to arrive in three batches for use by committee chairmen and members.

The Revolutionary Handshake between NIPOST and Ministry of Interior.

The Revolutionary Handshake between NIPOST and Ministry of Interior.

When people hear NIPOST, their minds naturally get fixated on letters, emails, and delivery of documents. Few also link the Nigerian Postal Service to purchase postage stamps. With the great advancement in information and communication technology that revolutionised the way we communicate, it appeared as if the end of post offices were in sight.

In Nigeria, NIPOST naturally went on an inevitable decline with the era of P.O. Box strolling towards extinction. But post offices in other parts of the world, especially the developed world, are evolving to keep up with the changing times. In the UK, for instance, there are around 11,500 post offices, making it one of the largest post office networks in the world. In Nigeria, we have around 955 post offices, some of which are dilapidated.

Notwithstanding the ICT revolution, post offices in other climes such as the UK have evolved and now provide a range of services such as sale of stationery, bill payment services, money transfer services, banking and insurance services, passport application services and the collection of health insurance contributions and even tax collection.

It was therefore gratifying to see the newly appointed Postmaster General and CEO of NIPOST, Ms Tola Odeyemi clearly trying to make NIPOST evolve and move from its traditional comfort zone to one that provides a lot of services required in Nigeria's growing digital landscape. Perhaps the greatest of such moves would be the anticipated partnership between NIPOST and the Ministry of Interior.

On 25th October 2023, the Postmaster General paid a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister for Interior,  Hon. (Dr) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to seek collaboration between NIPOST and some of the Ministry. Mrs. Odeyemi obviously smelt a big opportunity when the Minister back in September promised that by February 2024, the Nigerian Immigration Service would commence home delivery of international passports. No agency is better positioned to help achieve that than NIPOST!

The NIPOST Boss proposed business collaboration and partnership with the Ministry of Interior in three key areas, which include:

1. Delivery of critical documents such as International Passports to applicants. 

2. Backend services for processing of passport utilising NIPOST selected locations.

3. NIPOST for Address Verification System (AVS)

These three potential areas of collaboration, if successful, would impact Massively on Nigeria's passport application and delivery system and our national security. First, the Nigerian Immigration Service can partner with NIPOST to leverage on their wide network of post offices scattered across the country to offer some backend services for processing of passport applications.

Backend services for passport processing here refer to the activities that take place behind the scenes to ensure that passport applications are processed efficiently and that passports are issued in a timely manner. This includes the receipt and verification of passport applications, the collection and verification of supporting documents, the checking of passport photographs against biometric databases, and the printing and quality control of passports.

Backend services in the case of passport processing also include the security checks that are carried out to ensure that passports are not issued to people who are not eligible for them and that addresses supplied by the applicants are verified.

Gov Oyebanji Urges Higher Institutions To Embrace 21st Century Relevant Courses.

Gov Oyebanji Urges Higher Institutions To Embrace 21st Century Relevant Courses.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has called on higher institutions in Nigeria to review their curriculum and focus on 21st-century relevant courses that will empower students to become solution providers and employers of labour.

The Governor made the call on Friday while playing host to the Governing Council and Management team of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti (BOUESTI), led by its Chairman, Prof Patrick Aina.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser ( Media) to the Governor, Mr Yinka Oyebode, the Governor stressed the need for academic institutions to offer courses that will not only equip students with theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that can address current global challenges.

Emphasizing on the need to prepare students for the changing global dynamics and the need for graduates to adapt to a rapidly evolving job market, Governor Oyebanji tasked universities to align education with the demands of the modern workforce.

He maintained that restructuring the curriculum and expanding courses to accommodate 21st century relevant subjects would be an added advantage and opportunity to contribute to national economic growth by producing graduates who can drive innovations, entrepreneurship, and employment generation.

While commending the Governing Council and management of the University for excellent academic performance and the relative peace in the university community, the Governor charged them to actively engage and leverage on the public/private partnership for comprehensive development, expertise resources and innovation in the university.

“I am glad to note that 20 of the courses you are offering now are not common courses because my concern, in fairness, with the kind of courses being offered in our institutions is their relevance to the current situation. I don’t think we should just be turning out students that would not be relevant in the 21st century, I don’t believe in that.

“So when we accredit courses because we want the students to pay fees but we don’t look at the future of those courses, it will hunt us in future, so I will just plead with BOUESTI to look at the relevance of these courses that will make students to be solution providers, and employers of labour”. The Governor noted.

Earlier in his remark, the Chairman Governing Council, BOUESTI, Prof Patrick Aina said the purpose of the meeting was to congratulate the Governor for his outstanding performance and various achievements recorded in his one year in office. He also thanked the Governor for the flag off of construction of the Ikere- Igbara Odo Road project, which he said would be of great benefit to students and staff of the University.

Professor Aina, who equally used the opportunity to acquaint the Governor with the progress of the University since he assumed office as the Chairman Governing council, appealed for government’s assistance in addressing some of the institution’s other challenges.

Also present at the meeting were the State Commisisoner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Bimpe Aderiye; Special Adviser to the Governor on Higher Education, Dr Akeem Azeez. The Vice Chancellor of BOUESTI, Prof Olufemi Adeoluwa and other principal officers of the institution were also in attendance.