Tinubu confirms Immigration CG’s appointment.

Tinubu confirms Immigration CG’s appointment. 

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Adepoju Wura-Ola as the substantive Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service.Wura-Ola has been in an acting capacity since June 1, 2023.

This was contained in a statement on Monday by the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Fire, Immigration and Prisons Services Board Civil Board, Ja’afaru Ahmed.

 “President Tinubu approved the appointment of Adepoju Wura-Ola as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service.

“Until her appointment, she was the Deputy Comptroller General in charge of the Finance and Account Directorate.

“As an NIS officer, CGI Wura-Olu, attended some trainings, including; Immigration Training School Kano, Immigration Command, and Staff College Sokoto, National Institute for Security Studies Lower Usman Dam Bwari, Abuja, and Emotional Intelligence and Transformation Leadership.

She is also a fellow of the Pass Command Course, a fellow Security Institute of Nigeria, and a Member Law Society of Upper Canada. She is happily married with children,” the statement read partly.

It said the President also approved the appointment of six Deputy Comptrollers-General for the service.

COVID 19 funds: Reps query CMD over N949m contract.

COVID 19 funds: Reps query CMD over N949m contract.

The House of Representatives’ Public Accounts Committee on Monday queried the utilisation of N949m released by the Office of Accountant-General of the Federation to the Chief Medical Director of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital for intervention in the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Chairman of the House Committee, Bamidele Salam, at the resumed investigative hearing on the matter at the National Assembly Complex, queried the CMD of the health institution, Prof Henry Ugboma, on the transparency in the utilisation of the funds.

The Committee Chairman had requested from the CMD all documents relating to all the releases of funds by the OAGF, the contracts awarded, as well as approvals from the Federal Executive Council and the Bureau of Public Procurement.

This is just as the lawmaker added that OAGF released to the hospital management more funds than what was appropriated to it by the National Assembly.

The lawmaker and some other committee members also questioned the CMD about the amount of funds released in 2020 and 2021, stressing that the Accountant-General didn’t provide them with the needed information on the issue during the investigation.

In a presentation to the panel, the CMD admitted that the the hospital management received the sum of N949m in five tranches.

The Committee Chairman after going through the documents on the released funds noted that the amount released to the hospital was bigger than what was appropriated in the annual budget.

The House Committee also queried the utilisation of the N60bn released to the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency by the OAGF for the same period, as members branded the projects the agency claimed it spent the funds on as “fictitious.”

The Managing Director of the agency, Emeka Agabasi, had told the committee that the agency had undertaken 192 projects in the six geopolitical zones and completed 186, with only six left uncompleted.

He said that the six zones had benefited from the road projects undertaken by the agency in the following order: North-Central 34, North-West 30, South-West 32, South-South 34, South-East 27 and North-East 35.

Salam was, however, not impressed with the documents submitted by the FERMA boss, saying, “We have only five copies of the documents we requested. We have more than thirty members here. So, even if you give us 11 copies, it will still not be sufficient for the investigation.”

After deliberation by committee members, Salam said the committee will tour FERMA projects across the federation for which the funds were utilised.

Akinteye Pledges Inclusive and Responsive Leadership as NANS Senate President.

Akinteye Pledges Inclusive and Responsive Leadership as NANS Senate President.

By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi.

In the aftermath of being declared the Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Afeez Akinteye has made a commitment to lead an inclusive and responsive student parliament. The newly elected leader expressed his dedication to safeguarding students' rights wherever they pursue their education.

Addressing his victory, Akinteye, who previously served as the Vice President (VP), External Affairs of the student body, stated, "With immense humility and gratitude, I stand before you today as the newly elected Senate President of our dear and noble association, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)."

He continued, "Your resounding support and trust in my vision have laid the foundation for what I believe will be a transformative and impactful administration."

Acknowledging the democratic process and the support received, Akinteye expressed gratitude to individuals who campaigned passionately and cast their votes. He emphasized that their commitment reflects the vibrant spirit of a united student community.

In his commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and advocacy for students' welfare and rights, Akinteye reassured students and stakeholders that he would address pressing challenges, advocate for quality education, and amplify every student's voice on various platforms.

To his fellow contestants, he extended a hand in unity, inviting them to join forces for the betterment of NANS. He recognized their dedication and ideas, urging them to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and unity.

Akinteye acknowledged the weightiness of the responsibility, emphasizing that the role of the Senate President demands prudence, inclusivity, and a deep understanding of students' diverse needs. He affirmed his commitment to upholding these values and leading a movement for positive change.

Under his leadership, Akinteye pledged to create a NANS that advocates fiercely for students' rights and welfare, fostering inclusivity, unity, and empowerment. The new era, according to him, will ensure every student feels heard, represented, and empowered.

Strategic Empowerment: Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo Elevates Constituency Ward Coordinators.

Strategic Empowerment: Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo Elevates Constituency Ward Coordinators.                                                                 By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi.

In a move geared towards enhancing governance and ensuring effective representation, Hon. Kolawole Davidson Akinlayo, a member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency (II), which comprises Ido/Osi, Moba, and Ilejemeje local governments, has taken a strategic step by elevating all his constituency Ward coordinators to the position of Personal Assistant (PA).

This significant development comes with the issuance of official letters of appointment, each outlining a distinct portfolio for the newly appointed PAs. Hon. Akinlayo's decision underscores a strong commitment to empower grassroots leaders, deepen community engagement, and optimize the collective efforts of his constituency for a more robust and inclusive governance structure.

The elevation of Ward coordinators to the role of Personal Assistant aligns with Akinlayo's vision for a responsive and citizen-centric representation, bringing governance closer to the people. The move is expected to facilitate better coordination between the elected representative and grassroots leaders, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the constituency's governance model.

Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo's approach showcases a proactive effort to build a strong and well-connected team that can address the diverse needs of the constituency. This empowerment initiative is poised to strengthen the bond between the elected representative and the community, fostering a sense of ownership and active participation in the governance process.

As constituents anticipate the positive impact of this strategic move, Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo continues to demonstrate a commitment to progressive and inclusive representation, setting a precedent for effective grassroots engagement in Ekiti North Federal Constituency (II).

Nigerian Army admits bombing villagers in error – Kaduna Govt.

Nigerian Army admits bombing villagers in error – Kaduna Govt.

The Kaduna State Government says the Nigerian Army has claimed responsibility for dropping a bomb on Tudun Biri in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State which left no fewer than 30 villagers dead on Sunday.

It was reported that scores of villagers in Tudun Biri in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State were killed after a bomb was allegedly dropped by a military jet during a Maulud celebration.

No fewer than 30 residents were killed in the incident which took place around 9 pm on Sunday.

Earlier, the Nigerian Air Force denied responsibility for the attack.

According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Commodore Edward Gabkwet, NAF has not carried out any operations in Kaduna in the last 24 hours.

However, the Overseeing Commissioner of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, said the General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army and Force Commander Operation Whirl Punch, Maj Gen VU Okoro, admitted that the Nigerian Army was on a routine mission against terrorists when the incident happened.

This was contained in a statement released by the commissioner to journalists shortly after the deputy governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe met with Islamic clerics, traditional rulers, heads of security agencies, where “the Nigerian Army explained the circumstances which led to the unfortunate and unintended attack.”

The meeting was held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, Kaduna on Monday.

The statement read, “The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major VU Okoro, explained that the Nigerian Army was on a routine mission against terrorists but inadvertently affected members of the community.”

He added that search-and-rescue efforts were still ongoing as dozens of injured victims had been evacuated to the Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital by the state government.

He also quoted the deputy governor as having commiserated with the victims’ families while praying for the repose of the victims’ souls

The statement added, “The Kaduna State Government has received briefings on Sunday night’s attack which left several citizens dead and others injured.

“In a meeting presided over by the Deputy Governor, Dr Hadiza Balarabe, which had in attendance heads of security agencies, religious and traditional leaders, the Nigerian Army explained the circumstances which led to the unfortunate and unintended attack.

“The General Officer Commanding 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major VU Okoro, explained that the Nigerian Army was on a routine mission against terrorists but inadvertently affected members of the community.

“The deputy governor, at the end of the closed-door meeting, conveyed the condolences of the government and people of Kaduna State to the families that lost their loved ones and prayed for the repose of the victims’ souls.

“As of the time of this update, search-and-rescue efforts are still ongoing, as dozens of injured victims have been evacuated to Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital by the Government.”

The heads of security agencies who attended the meeting included the state Commissioner of Police, MY Garba; Director of the Department of State Services, Abdul Eneche; the Chairman of the Kaduna State Chapter of Jam’atu Nasril Islam, Prof. Shafi’u Abdullahi, who led other religious leaders as well as the District Head of Rigasa, Alhaji Aminu Idris, in whose domain the incident occurred

Ekiti Determined To Reduce Child Mortality Rate, Says First Lady.

Ekiti Determined To Reduce Child Mortality Rate, Says First Lady.                                                .......Flags off Second Round of Child Health Week.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has restated the determination of the state government to the reduction of child mortality rate and also improve the health status of women of childbearing age.

Dr. Oyebanji who disclosed this on Monday at the flag-off of the second round of the 2023 Maternal Newborn and Child Health Week urged women of childbearing age to take advantage of the programme which runs till Friday in all government health facilities and some designated places.

The Governor's wife who was represented by the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye,  revealed that during the exercise, deworming tablets and vitamins supplements will be administered to our children between ages 6 and 59 months.

She added that pregnant women will have access to HIV screening services and medicinal items such as SP Folate and other health care commodities noting that all these interventions are not only free, they are safe and effective.

Dr. Oyebanji acknowledged with deep sense of appreciation, the concerted efforts and contribution of Ekiti Health Workers and the State Committee for Food and Nutrition in improving the maternal and child survival in the State noting that History will, no doubt, be kind to them.

According to her, the Administration has carried out various interventions in the health sector since its inauguration in October 16, 2022 expressing confidence that the enduring interventions in the health sector will, in no small measure, help in reducing maternal and child mortality and also improve the health and wellness of the good people of Ekiti State.

The First Lady who stressed the irrevocable commitment of the Governor Oyebanji led Administration to the wellness, health and wellbeing of the people of the state pointed out that the revamping of the health sub-sector was aimed at providing access to to quality healthcare delivery and engendering a healthy population.

She said: "It is instructive to note that the present Administration is irrevocably committed to the wellness, health and well-being of the good people of the State. This informs the top priority the present administration places on the Health Sector. 

"To further demonstrate this, the health sub-sector is made a major component of the Human Capital Development, which is one of the Six Pillars of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji-led administration. The objective is to provide qualitative, affordable and accessible health care delivery to the good people of Ekiti State. 

"This good gesture has been further demonstrated by the various transformations in the health sector in Ekiti State. Put succinctly, the present Administration has equipped our various primary and secondary health facilities in Ekiti State among which are the Specialist Hospitals at Ikere, Ikole and Ijero, General Hospital at Emure Ekiti, and Primary Health Facilities across the three Senatorial districts." 

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro; the Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe; Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani; Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo and Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Tayo Adeola.

The event was attended by the President, League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello; Chief Medical Director of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Prof. Kayode Olabanji; senior bureaucrats in the health sector, market women, nursing mothers and their kids.

FG settles N52m fines, compensation for 399 inmates in Kaduna.

FG settles N52m fines, compensation for 399 inmates in Kaduna.

The Federal Government has settled N52m in fines and compensation for 399 inmates at various correctional centres across Kaduna State as part of its efforts to decongest the centres.

The Comptroller of Correctional Service, Kaduna State, Dr Ado Saleh, disclosed this during the inauguration of the initiative at Zaria on Monday.

Saleh said, “We are here to release 68 inmates from Zaria, Makarfi, Soba and Ikara Correctional Centres.”

He said that 110 inmates were earlier released at Kaduna, adding that the ceremony in Zaria was a continuation of the programme that was designed and implemented by the Federal Government.

“In total, 399 inmates in Kaduna State were marked to be released at the cost of N52million.

“The commencement of the programme is simultaneously taking place at Kaduna, Kafanchan and Zaria to see the release of 281 across the state.

“Of the 281 to be released across Kaduna State during the ceremony 68 inmates were from Zaria Zone,” he said.

The comptroller explained that of the 68 inmates, 43 were from Zaria, 19 from Soba, 5 from Makarfi, and 19 were from Ikara Correctional Centres.

He added that each of the beneficiaries would be given N10,000 to pay as transport fare.

Earlier, Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Ojo, said the initiative was to decongest the Correctional Centres by paying the fines and compensations for inmates who were owing fines or compensation of one Naira to one million Naira.

Ojo, represented by Assistant Legal Adviser, Federal Ministry of Interior, John Otsuka, said that facilities and centres across the country were overstretched.

He added that the gesture was to reduce the number of inmates at the centres and leave the rest to the judiciary to act.

Ojo said that no fewer than 4068 inmates would benefit from the initiative across the country.

While speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Solomon Atambe, a resident of Railway Quarters, Sabon-Gari-Zaria, commended the Federal Government for the invaluable gesture.

He urged the beneficiaries to reciprocate the gesture and “sin no more,” urging them to utilise the skills they acquired while in the facility.

NAN