Sanwo-Olu approves wage award, December bonus for workers.

Sanwo-Olu approves wage award, December bonus for workers.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved N35,000 wage award for the state public servants. 

This was just as he also approved the payment of 50% of basic salary as an end-of-year bonus for all political appointees and public servants, employees of local governments and local council development areas, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board and the Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps.

The approval was contained in a circular obtained by PUNCH Online, signed by the Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, with reference number CIR/HOS/’23/Vol. 1/ 109. 

The circular titled ‘2023 End Of Year Bonus And Implementation Of Wage Awards’, stated that the governor approved the payments as part of his administration’s appreciation of public servants’ contribution towards the progress of the state, as well as his commitment to their welfare. 

The statement further noted that the end-of-year bonus and the wage award which would be paid alongside December 2023 salary, would be non-taxable. 

The statement reads, “As part of the present administration’s continuous appreciation of the contributions of all public servants towards the advancement of the state and its unrelenting commitment to the welfare of its workforce, it is hereby notified for general information that Mr. Governor has graciously approved the payment of 50% of basic salary as end-of-year bonus for all political appointees and public servants, including employees of local governments and local council development areas, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board and Lagos Neighborhood Safety Corps.

“In the same vein, Mr. Governor has further approved the implementation of the wage award (palliative) pending the review of the national minimum wage.

“Therefore, the 50% of basic salary as an end-of-year Bonus, as well as the wage award palliative), will be paid alongside the December 2023 salary as a “non-taxable element”.

“Sequel to the foregoing, public servants are implored to continually strive for excellence in providing qualitative service delivery to the people of the State in line with Mr Governor’s THEMES+ Agenda.

“Accordingly, all heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies are hereby enjoined to note the content of this circular and give it the service-wide publicity it deserves.”

Ajoni LCDA Boss, Ogungbemi Dedicates Newshereandthere Award to Gov Oyebanji.

Ajoni LCDA Boss, Ogungbemi Dedicates Newshereandthere Award to Gov Oyebanji.

..….as LG Chair Bags Best Perfoming Local Govt. Chairman of 2023.

The Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area,LCDA in Ekiti State,Prince Michael Ogungbemi has dedicated his Newshereandthere Meritorious Award of excellence to the state governor Biodun Oyebanji.

A reputable Magazine, NEWSHEREANDTHERE on Thursday Conferred the award of ‘Best Performing LG Chairman of the year 2023’ to the LCDA Chairman.

Speaking during the award presentation in Ado-Ekiti, the convener of the Magazine, Adewumi Ademiju said her team had been meticulously following the activities of the Chairman in his last two years in office before his recent re-election into office.

Convener of Newshereandthere Adewumi Ademiju Presenting the Awardee at the event.

She noted that the Council Boss has inscribed indelible marks in terms of women and youth empowerment, partnership with International agencies and organizations, infrastructural development, among others; all for people at his localities to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

Her words: “The team of NEWSHEREANDTHERE monitored the activities of the Chairman of Ajoni LCDA during his last two years in office.

“He has made landmark achievement in terms of community development, infrastructural development, partnership with relevant international agencies and organizations, women empowerment; all for the benefits of his people.

“In lieu of this, he has been found worthy to be awarded with an award titled ‘The Best Performing Local Government Chairman of 2023′”

Presenting the award to the Chairman, the Ekiti State Director General of Bureau of Community Communications, Hon. Mary Oso-Omotoso lauded NEWSHEREANDTHERE Magazine for such rare action, saying that Journalists don’t award individuals based on their status but on their contributions to their host communities.

DG Community Communications Presenting the Newshereandthere Award to Prince Ogungbemi.

In his response, the Ajoni LCDA Boss, Prince Michael Ogungbemi extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Team of the Magazine for giving him such meritorious award.

He noted that his contributions to his localities have been for the interest of his people and he will not cease in making sure that people at his localities enjoy the dividends of democracy.

“I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to NEWSHEREANDTHERE Magazine for this award. Everything I do is for the benefits of our people.

“I dedicate the award to the State Governor,His Excellency Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his Leadership Prowess that gives us the enabling environment to diligently serve our community

“I want to tell you that we will keep doing more, we will go back to our drawing table and begin to do more,” he said

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.