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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Akeredolu releases N1bn for retired teachers, LG workers.

Akeredolu releases N1bn for retired teachers, LG workers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nigerians will enjoy improved power supply soon – Adelabu.

Nigerians will enjoy improved power supply soon – Adelabu.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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