FG Moves To End Malnutrition As VP Shettima Inaugurates Core Working Committee.

FG Moves To End Malnutrition As VP Shettima Inaugurates Core Working Committee.

In a bid to address severe acute malnutrition in the country, Vice President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated a high-powered Nutrition Core Working Committee (NCWC).

The critical body, dubbed the "intellectual powerhouse" by the Vice President, will spearhead the fight against hunger and malnutrition across Nigeria.

Speaking during the inauguration of the Nutrition Core Working Committee at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Senator Shettima emphasised the importance of coordination and collaboration with the National Committee on Food and Nutrition (NCFN).

"We are determined to upturn the negative nutrition indices of this country," he declared.

The VP cited his recent visit to Tudun Biri village in Kaduna State where he witnessed the tragic plight of a malnourished child caught in the unfortunate military drone strike, saying "We have no excuse for poverty."

Highlighting Nigeria's immense potential for prosperity, the Vice President's passion for the cause was evident, as he pledged unwavering support to the committee.

"You are our engine room," he said, urging them to start by tackling the malnutrition crisis from the most vulnerable communities.

"Advise us, draw the roadmap," he implored, emphasising the crucial role of the members of the committee as expert advisors.

VP Shettima expressed a resolute commitment to breaking the cycle of poverty and malnutrition. "Let us do something truly impactful for Nigerians," he urged.

He reminded the committee members of their shared responsibility, even as he said, "We are all products of the public school system, and history will judge us harshly if we fail to change the narrative of this country."

On his part, Special Assistant to the President on Public Health, Office of the Vice President, Uju Okorocha, noted that the incursion of nutrition in Nigeria is far beyond health."

“The committee's mandate extends beyond healthcare, encompassing education and the broader socio-economic impact of malnutrition.

“The committee will focus on a multi-sectoral approach, ensuring coordinated efforts across government agencies to deliver effective solutions and meet multi-sectoral action targets. Innovative financing mechanisms will also be explored to further strengthen the fight against malnutrition,” she said.

Okorocha emphasized the committee's vital role, just as she said, "The team here has the knowledge that we can leverage on to move the needle on the issue of malnutrition in Nigeria."

Committee members emphasized the need for a dedicated delivery unit within the Vice President's office to track progress and hold all stakeholders accountable.

They also advocated the establishment of nutrition departments across all government ministries and agencies, both at the national and sub-national levels.

Members of the committee include representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the Nigeria Governors' Forum, the World Bank Group, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Nutrition International, the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, and the Civil Society Scaling-up Nutrition in Nigeria (CS-SUNN).

Governor Oyebanji's Inclusive Governance Illuminates 'Shasha BAO' Market Carnival.

Governor Oyebanji's Inclusive Governance Illuminates 'Shasha BAO' Market Carnival.

By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi J.

In the heart of Ado Ekiti, the 'Shasha BAO' market came alive with joy and festivities as Governor Biodun Oyebanji's inclusive governance style took center stage during the inaugural annual carnival. This event not only showcased the governor's attunement to the unique needs of the people but also emphasized his commitment to fostering inclusion and shared prosperity across every facet of the state.

Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Investment, Trade, and Industry, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola, alongside the Director-General of Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotosho, Governor Oyebanji graciously accepted the invitation to partake in the vibrant celebrations.

Group Photograph of the event. 

The traders, overwhelmed with gratitude, expressed their thanks to Governor Oyebanji for providing standard facilities in the market, facilities that surpassed their initial expectations. The Governor's gesture for their celebration resonated deeply with the traders, who, in turn, pledged unwavering support for the Oyebanji-led administration. They anticipate a surge in traders flocking to the market to capitalize on the excellent facilities provided.

Governor Oyebanji, appreciative of the traders' support and cooperation in ensuring the market's smooth functioning, assured them of continuous engagement. He promised more government support to attract additional traders to the market, ultimately boosting their sales.

As the 'Shasha BAO' market carnival unfolded, it became a testament to Governor Biodun Oyebanji's commitment to inclusive governance and the enhancement of economic opportunities for the people of Ekiti.

#BAO4all

#KeepingEkitiworking

#Sharedprosperity

Heartfelt Gratitude to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, My Local Government leaders and my Beloved Community.

Heartfelt Gratitude to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, My Local Government leaders and my Beloved Community.

I am writing to express my profound gratitude for the extraordinary opportunity to serve the wonderful people of my community as the Youngest Councillor in the State. The trust placed in me at such a young age is both an immense honor and a source of inspiration for the youth of our State.

I am deeply thankful for the platform to serve, and I commend the leadership of our respected Oga, Olayinka Oyebode, especially during our initial years. This chance to contribute to the progress and development of Ekiti State has been a transformative journey. Under his visionary guidance, we achieved significant milestones across various sectors, and the positive transformations initiated during this administration will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the lives of our citizens.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji's steadfast commitment to empowering the younger generation exemplifies the importance of merit and potential in shaping our country's future. His dedication and vision serve as a continuous source of inspiration. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of our people and the creation of an enabling environment for youth empowerment set a high standard for future leaders. May the Oyebanji administration succeed, In Jesus' name.

To my formidable mother and backbone, Her Excellency Dr. Oyebanji Olayemi, Ekiti's First Lady, I will be forever grateful for your unwavering support, enlightenment, and encouragement. May God continue to bless you abundantly.

Addressing my primary constituency, the youths of my community, the youth of our dear state, and the nation at large, I extend my heartfelt gratitude for believing in me and affording me the privilege of representing you. It has been an enlightening representation and experience.

As I anticipate the next chapter of my journey, I carry the lessons learned and an unwavering dedication to serving with integrity and truth.

So help me, GOD!

Adekunle Sikiru Omo-Imam

Councillor-Elect, Igede Ward B

Ogun cargo airport will boost to nation’s economy – FG.

Ogun cargo airport will boost to nation’s economy – FG.

The Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, has said that the Ogun State Agro-Cargo Airport, when completed, would add value to the lives of the people and contribute to the rapid growth of the state and the nation’s economy.

The minister, who stated this on Friday after being conducted around the airport by Governor Dapo Abiodun, described the airport as a major economic project of the Abiodun-led administration.

He said, “I have had the opportunity to be here before and I know that the ARISE Agro-Cargo Industrial and Export Processing Zone is a major economic achievement that speaks to the possibility of rapid growth of the economy, which is the objective of Mr President to have more investments like this.

“It is the type of investment that grows the economy, that creates jobs, that reduces poverty and it is good for the people of Ogun State in particular as well as Nigeria in general that new economic life is being breathed into the area.

“As for this particular facility, this airport which is reputed to have the longest runway in Nigeria, I can see the terminal building receiving finishing touches to make it a full-blown international passengers and cargo airport.”

FAAC shares N1.088trn to FG, States, LGs.

FAAC shares N1.088trn to FG, States, LGs.

The Federation Account Allocation Committee has shared the sum of N1.088 trillion to the Federal Government, States and Local Government Councils.

A communique issued at the end of the FAAC, in Abuja, on Friday, indicated that the allocation came from November 2023 Federation Account revenue.

The N1.088 trillion distributable revenue comprised a distributable statutory revenue of N376.306 billion, distributable Value Added Tax revenue of N335.656 billion, Electronic Money Transfer Levy revenue of N11.952 billion and Exchange Difference revenue of N364.869 billion.

According to the communique, a total revenue of N1.620 trillion was earned in the month of November 2023.

Out of the gross revenue, deductions for cost of collection was N60.960 billion; while total transfers, interventions and refunds stood at N470.592 billion.

Gross Statutory revenue of N882.560 billion was received for the month of November 2023.

A statement signed by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Bawa Mokwa, said this amount was higher than the N660.090 billion received in the month of October 2023 by N222.470 billion.

The gross revenue available from the Value Added Tax in November 2023 was N360.455 billion.

It was also higher than the N347.343 billion available in the month of October 2023 by N13.112 billion.

The communique indicated that from the N1.088 trillion total distributable revenue, the Federal Government received a total of N402.867 billion, the State Governments received N351.697 billion, while the Local Government Councils received N258.810 billion.

A total sum of N75.410 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared with the benefiting oil-producing states as derivation revenue.

From the N376.306 billion distributable statutory revenue, the Federal Government received N174.908 billion, the state governments received N88.716 billion and the Local Government Councils received N68.396 billion.

“The sum of N44.286 billion (13% of mineral revenue) was shared with the benefiting states as derivation revenue.

Governor in Acting Capacity: Aiyedatiwa Deserves Honour As New Leader. Omoluabi Group Appeal to Ondo Political Class.

Governor in Acting Capacity: Aiyedatiwa Deserves Honour As New Leader. Omoluabi Group Appeal to Ondo Political Class.

The Acting Governor has now assumed office in the capacity of a protem Governor as bestowed on him by virtue of the dictate of the constitution. Today the troubled waters of the state have been made to settle by the singular pronouncement of Mr. President who advised that His Excellency Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa be given the power to hold forth for the ailing governor of Ondo state. 

This mandate issued by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has really calm tensions and resolved possible political wars and rancours among political leaders in the state and other concerned state leaders. Kudos to Baba Reuben Fasoranti and other eminent leaders of the state whose roles and advise to Mr.President on the matter was really helpful. Today Ondo State has moved on and our our people are now psychologically better than the previous weeks. As a group in the state with concern for the peace, harmony and continuity in governance in the state, we shall not sit on the fence and watch any state in the southwest region be thrown into pandemonium. Omoluabi group suggested a constitutional solution which was very helpful too in resolving the imbroglio that kept a very important state in the southwest stagnant for months.

As a respected socio- cultural and political group in the southwest emerging from the Yoruba nation with an agenda to protect the collective integrity of the Yoruba people, we shall continue to make our group available for constructive criticism. It is now important to address issues and ensure the state under the leadership of Lucky Aiyedatiwa move forward unperturbed. The Acting governor should immediately swing to action and take decisive steps at using the instruments and paraphernalia of office smartly.  Key areas that requires attention is to block all loopholes and checkmate all unnecessary spendings.

The renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu have been intended to better the lives of Nigerians which he has consistently addressed in all fora. Allocations to states have been regular, palliatives to states have been approved and distributed. To be sincere all state allocations have been increased to meet the need of states without any need for complains.

It is very important to let the Acting Governor assume office in full capacity and exercise the powers of office to the fullest. Key areas that deserve attention include:

1. Providing attention to the welfare of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo.

2. Block all loopholes for financial drain.

3. Adopt political solutions in key issues where change need to be activated.

4. Rejig the affairs and activities of key state Ministries in the state especially the Finance.

5. Transfer and re-shuffling of Permanent Secretaries including the Accountant General of the State.

6.Payment of salaries ad subventions to tertiary institutions in the state as at when due.

7.. Re- visit the issues of LCDAs' 

8. Ensure all ongoing projects  under the Aketi- led government be completed.

9. Other issues at your discretions.

Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio- cultural and Political Group wish the good people of Ondo State well and the Acting Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa well in his new assignment. Remember that governance requires giving back to the people because power resides with the people in a sane society.

 E- Signed.

 Engr. Aluko Taiyelolu Ife

 Ondo State Coordinator

 15/12/2023

President Tinubu Receives Ambassadors, Mandates Them To Focus On New Investment And Trade Expansion.

President Tinubu Receives Ambassadors, Mandates Them To Focus On New Investment And Trade Expansion.

President Bola Tinubu has assured foreign investors of diligent and predictable fund repatriation, and the streamlining of the tax system, while imploring ambassadors to prioritize the exploration of new frontiers of trade relations that will be mutually beneficial as they carry out their duties in the country.

The President received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of Hungary, Lorand Endreffy; High Commissioner of Rwanda, Christophe Bazivamo, and Ambassador of Ukraine, Ivan Kholostenko, at the State House, on Friday.

Speaking when he received the High Commissioner of Rwanda, the President said the long-standing concerns over trapped funds are receiving attention and that the funds will be processed expeditiously for release.

“We are one family on the continent. We will continue to promote democracy and good governance. I will maintain an open-door policy, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Chief of Staff are also available.

"For the avoidance of doubt, we are already working on the issues of double taxation, and it will be properly streamlined to favour business growth. Nigeria is home and a haven for investors," the President affirmed.

The Rwandan High Commissioner said the government of Rwanda was prepared to enhance bi-lateral relations with Nigeria, with new visa policies and trade agreements. 

At the ceremony, President Tinubu asked the Ambassador of Hungary to explore all opportunities of building partnership, especially in the areas of agriculture and food security, and how to leverage the experience of the country in technology. 

“Thank you so much for taking care of our students who are in your country. We are a very big country, with huge potential to sustainably spur economic growth. We are ready to improve relations, especially in the areas of agriculture and food security," the President said.

The Hungarian Ambassador commended the President for his bold, courageous, and strategic decisions to reposition the Nigerian economy, listing some areas of collaboration to include education, agriculture, food security, security, and medical technology.

 

“My Prime Minister always says that our relations are based on mutual respect,’’ he said. 

President Tinubu told the Ukrainian Ambassador that Nigeria will always work for global peace and harmony. 

“We are with you in prayers. We will continue to support good governance and democracy,’’ the President stated.