Customs hands over $54,330 tramadol bribe money to EFCC.

Customs hands over $54,330 tramadol bribe money to EFCC.

The Tincan Island Port (TCIP) command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over 54,330 dollars tramadol bribe money to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, disclosed this at the handing over of the money to the EFCC Zonal Commander, Mr Michael Wetkas, in Lagos on Tuesday.

Nnadi also reiterated the zero compromise for corruption stance of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.

According to Nnadi, the tramadol were falsely declared as electrical appliances valued over N856 million with a view to concealing them while the cash were offered to compromise the customs officers.

The controller said the act was in clear violation of Section 233 of Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCAA) 2023 and commended the officers who stood their grounds to work ethically and lawfully in the interest of national security.

He further called for continuous compliance on the part of port users and reminded them that the NCS with the collaboration of sister agencies like the EFCC would continue to frustrate criminal activities in the port.

Nnadi lauded the officers, who under whose watch, the seizure was achieved and described them as good ambassadors of the NCS.

“The two suspects arrested in connection with the two containers are currently being investigated by the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control for possible prosecution,” he said.

Wetkas while receiving the cash, described the feat as a victory for the country and to all the security agencies.

He specifically celebrated the officers of the NCS that achieved it.

Wetkas also lauded the the comptroller general for the letter of commendation in appreciation of the six customs officers who refused to bow to pressure and inducement from the owners of the illicit drugs.

He promised continued collaboration between the EFCC, NCS and sister agencies.

According to him, the era of working without collaboration is gone as the agencies now work closer. (NAN)

We’re focused on job creation, fight against hunger, corruption, others – Tinubu.

We’re focused on job creation, fight against hunger, corruption, others – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu, on Tuesday, November 28, said his administration is maintaining focus on job creation, the fight against hunger and corruption, among others, in order to unlock the full economic potential of the country.

President Tinubu who stated this in Abuja, at the opening of the 2023 National Conference, Exhibition, and Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NSE), also said his administration requires the support of the society to fully maximise available opportunities for Nigerians

President Tinubu, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the event, noted with pride that Nigerian Engineers are committed to excellence and are respected globally.

He noted: “The Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration is defined by our commitment to unleashing our country’s full economic potentials by focusing on job creation, access to capital for small and large businesses, inclusiveness, Rule of Law and the fight against hunger, poverty and corruption.”

The Nigerian leader used the opportunity to correct the impression in some quarters that Nigeria’s population is not useful, as he said the nation can, within a decade, become a trillion-dollar economy.

The president stressed: “Nigeria has the population and resources to be a trillion-dollar economy within the next decade however; we cannot achieve this ambitious target without recognizing the critical importance of the key elements embodied by the theme for this conference, which include manufacturing, competitiveness and economic growth.

“Some people view our large population of over 200 million people as an obstacle to our economic development. I beg to vehemently disagree with them. What I see is tremendous potential and opportunity in the largest black population in Africa and on earth.

“With the median age of 19, we possess not only a large pool of industrial and engineering labour but also a vast market for any product manufactured within Nigeria. The challenge before us is to turn this workforce into one of the greatest national assets the world has ever seen and this is where you come in; the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the umbrella body of all engineering ceilings and expertise in the country.”

The president added that the story of national growth development cannot be complete without Engineers.

He said: “Nigerian Engineers have created a niche for themselves by their shared embrace of excellence and commitment to quality representation. The Nigeria Society of Engineers is a well-respected organization not only nationally but globally.

 “Indeed no story of national growth and development can be told without acknowledging the significant contributions of the various facets of the engineering profession.

“The theme for this year’s conference, ‘Reengineering the manufacturing sector for competitiveness and enhanced economic growth and innovation’ is especially apt for a time like this when more than ever before, Nigeria needs to take its place on the global stage in the hub of engineering, manufacturing and innovation.”

He also sued for collaboration between the government at all levels and Engineers in order to tap the potential of the country, as he promised to provide the enabling environment for Engineers to succeed in their chosen profession.

He said: “You have a huge responsibility before you, to work with the government and with all the stakeholders so that we can jointly chart a path to true and lasting prosperity for Nigeria.

“Our administration requires your support to harness the immense opportunities in front of us and to turn the promise of Renewed Hope into reality for the generality of our people.

“I once again offer you my solemn promise that I am committed to providing the enabling environment for every policy, legislation, and action required for this to happen.”

President Tinubu restated the government’s desire to raise more revenue and also reduce the burden on citizens and businesses, by streamlining the number of taxes in Nigeria.

President Tinubu assured: “Our goal is to increase Nigeria’s tax revenues while also reducing the burden on individuals and businesses. It might sound like a contradiction but it is not. By streamlining the number of taxes, introducing greater efficiency, and blocking the loopholes through which leakages occur. We can and will deliver less burdensome tax regimes to businesses and employers of labour.”

He noted that State governments are getting seed financing as support for the provision of infrastructure for a transformational infrastructure path across the country. 

The representative of the President and a few other dignitaries that graced the opening ceremony of the conference were decorated with various honours of the Nigeria Society of Engineers.

Senate passes bill establishing Federal University of Technology, Iyin Ekiti.

Senate passes bill establishing Federal University of Technology, Iyin Ekiti.

The Senate has passed a bill for establishment of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences lyin, in Ekiti.

The passage of the bill followed consideration and adoption of report of Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND at plenary on Tuesday.

The report was presented by Sen. Mohammmed Muntari (APC -Katsina).

Muntari in his lead debate, said Senate had at plenary on Oct. 26, debated on the general principles of the bill for an act to provide for the establishment of the university.

He said the bill was sponsored by Sen. Bamidele Opeyemi (APC- Ekiti).

He said the bill sought to provide a legislative framework to support establishment of the university.

Muntari said the school was designed to develop and offer academic and professional programmes leading to the award of diplomas, first degrees, postgraduate research and higher degrees.

According to him, the degrees to be awarded lay emphasis on environmental and technological skills and allied professional disciplines.

This, he said, was aimed at producing socially mature persons with the capacity to improve on the disciplines and develop new ones.

Muntari said the university would act as an agent and catalyst for national development through technological innovation for effective and economic utilization of the nation’s economic and human resources.

According to him, the committee engaged with relevant stakeholders, who expressed their views on the merits and demerits of the bill for an act to establish the university.

He said their views were in consonance with the Legislative Agenda of the 10th senate.

According to Muntari, the stakeholders and all the participants unanimously agreed on the intendiments of the bill.

He said the stakeholders believed that the establishment of the proposed university would bring socio-economic growth through development of the region and would encourage prospective youths to take advantage of the proximity of the institution to get educated.

Muntari said it was the views of stakeholders that the passage of the bill would no doubt give the people of the region a sense of belonging as it would be seen as one of the dividends of democracy.(NAN)

Ekiti Assembly Speaker, Aribasoye Assures Of Speedy Passage Of Palace Court Bill, Backs Customary Court Of Appeal On Quick Justice Dispensation.

 Ekiti Assembly Speaker, Aribasoye Assures Of Speedy Passage Of Palace Court Bill, Backs Customary Court Of Appeal On Quick Justice Dispensation.                                                                       ......As Hon. Babatunde Oke, Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary salutes the vision of the justices to raise the standard of the court.

The Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye says it is imperative to make legislations to support the roles of customary courts so as achieve decongestion of correctional centres by fast tracking justice delivery.  

The speaker who stated this on Tuesday while playing host to thek President of the Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal Justice Monisola Abodunde and her team of judges said any step to ensure speedy dispensation of justice cannot be overemphasized.   

Justice Abodunde had in her remarks stated the plans of the Customary Court of Appeal to take her sittings across the three senatorial districts in the state in order to bring justice closer to the grassroots. 

She also solicited the support of the state legislature to ensure the passage of Palace Court Bill which would give more roles to traditional figures, get the customary court more engaged, and , by extension, create room for the appointment of more judges.    

Justice Abodunde pointed out that the Customary court could be given jurisdiction on land matters in rural areas and be allowed to handle crimes committed during traditional festivals.

She emphasized the place of favourable budgeting to support some of the plans reeled out which she said required adequate funding.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye supported Justice Abodunde's position on the importance of activating palace courts for improved access to justice promising that the state lawmakers will give all necessary support to the bill when presented. 

"Once we have it, I can assure you it will be given accelerated and speedy attention. What you need to do now is to work on the executive to make them transmit the bill to us." Aribasoye affirmed. 

He stated further: "When you were talking, what comes to mind is quick dispensation of justice. There's a new approach by the Minister of Interior that we have to decongest our correctional centres. There are many minor cases that had left people at correctional facilities for number of years that have exceeded what ever length their sentence would have been."

The Speaker also promised support to other issues listed adding that those that required clarifications to avoid conflict with any law would be carefully considered. 

"On the issue of jurisdiction over land matters, We'll look into our laws to ensure we don't have conflict of interest. Once we confirm that, why not. If you also have anything beyond what we have said that could guide us, kindly forward to us, particularly the committee on Judiciary."

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye who described the courtesy visit as relevant and productive expressed confidence that it would further solidify the relationship between the two arms of government. 

"I have said over and over that the legislative arm is not a branch of the executive, it is an independent arm on its own. That is why the executive or judiciary can not spend any money without such being appropriated by the legislative arm. We can also make laws to suit our own purpose but that's why we also have the judiciary to always check us anytime we take the wrong path." The speaker explained. 

Earlier the Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, Hon. Babatunde Oke saluted the vision of the justices to bring the Customary Court of Appeal up to standard promising that the committee will give adequate support and assistance to the development agenda for the court.

The leader of the House , Hon. Tolu Ige and another lawmaker , Mrs. Iyabo Fakunle Okiemen were also present at the courtesy visit. 

Ekiti Govt Cautions Residents Against Acts That May Cause Fire Outbreak.

Ekiti Govt Cautions 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.

Governor Oyebanji Greenlights ₦158.15 Million For Bursary And Scholarship Awards.

Governor Oyebanji Greenlights ₦158.15 Million For Bursary And Scholarship Awards.                 By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi J.

In a commendable move towards advancing education, Governor Oyebanji has approved ₦158.15 million for the disbursement of Bursary and Scholarship Awards. This marks a pivotal moment in the state's commitment to fostering educational excellence.

Governor Oyebanji had earlier given the green light for an upward revision of scholarship awards across diverse academic levels, including Undergraduate, Masters degree, and Ph.D. This strategic move aims to enhance accessibility to quality education and support the academic aspirations of students at various stages of their educational journey.

The announcement came through an official statement by the Director-General of Ekiti State Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso Omotoso. This disclosure reinforces the government's dedication to providing financial aid and fostering a conducive environment for educational advancement.

Governor Oyebanji's leadership skills and commitment to the betterment of Ekiti State citizens shine through in this initiative. By investing in education, he not only empowers the youth but also paves the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for the entire state. His vision reflects a deep understanding of the transformative power of education in elevating communities and fostering long-term development.

Eligible students are urged to stay informed about the ongoing disbursement process, and further details will be communicated as the initiative unfolds.

Kogi State Government: No Wage Award Amid Fuel Subsidy Removal.

Kogi State Government: No Wage Award Amid Fuel Subsidy Removal.

The Kogi State Government has emphasized that there is no provision for additional wages for workers in the state to offset the impact of the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.

Speaking on Tuesday during a citizens' engagement in the 2024 budget formulation in Lokoja, the state capital, the Commissioner for Finance, Ashiru Idris, clarified the government's stance.

According to the commissioner, the government has not allocated any funds for such an award at this time. He stated, "Our focus as a government is to create an enabling environment for workers to operate with little or no hardships through the provision of social amenities and infrastructural facilities that will make life better for the people."

However, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in the state, Gabriel Amari, contested this assertion, mentioning that the governor had assured them of a consultative meeting after the election to discuss their request for additional benefits.

Amari said, "We have a copy of the letter and the reply of the governor with me, so I cannot react to the commissioner’s statement until I hear from him directly, then I will make my comments."

Prior to this, the Chairperson of the Kogi NGOs Network, Ambassador Idris Ozovehe Muraina, advocated for budget transparency laws to guarantee access to budget information and mandate the disclosure of key budget documents. He also urged the strengthening of institutional capacity to ensure effective management and reporting of the budget by government agencies responsible for its formulation, implementation, and oversight.