Governor Oyebanji's Unwavering Commitment to Power Supply Transformation in Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji's Unwavering Commitment to Power Supply Transformation in Ekiti State.

By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi J. 

Governor Biodun Oyebanji remains resolute in his commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the people of Ekiti through improved electricity supply. True to his campaign promises, he continues to make strides in making Ekiti a conducive environment for work and living.

In a recent development, the state-owned broadcasting station was successfully connected to the national grid after more than two decades, marking a significant milestone in the state's progress. Ekiti East and Gbonyin/Aiyekire Local Government Areas (LGAs) emerged from a 16-year period of darkness, showcasing Governor Oyebanji's dedication to transforming the state.

The Independent Power Project (IPP) is now operational, with ongoing efforts to connect it to Ekiti State University (EKSU). The connection of a new feeder and the rehabilitation of a 33KV line, spanning 19KM from the 132KV TCN Sub-station at Omisanjana to Ilawe, Erijiyan, and Ikogosi, further demonstrate the governor's commitment to sustainable development.

Currently, attention is being given to communities facing transformer challenges, underscoring Governor Oyebanji's recognition of electricity as a crucial catalyst for progress and improved living standards.

To showcase the impact of these initiatives, two videos highlight the recent interventions in benefiting communities:

The first video captures the replacement of a damaged transformer in Isan Ekiti on Saturday, December 16, 2023, with a brand new and upgraded 500KVA transformer, replacing the previous 200KVA unit. 

While, the second video highlights the delivery of a new transformer to the Surulere community behind Faglo, Bashiri Ado Ekiti, last week, eliciting joy and gratitude from the beneficiaries.

Governor Oyebanji's unwavering dedication to Ekiti's development deserves commendation. His commitment to inclusivity is evident in his strategic appointments, ensuring the active involvement of women and youths in various political positions. This move not only eradicates gender inequality but also promotes gender equality, fostering a balanced and progressive government.

The governor's foresight and hands-on approach to governance continue to make a positive impact, propelling Ekiti towards shared prosperity and sustainable development.

#BAO

#KeepingEkitiworking

#SharedProsperity

FG warns Kaduna communities against illegal mining.

FG warns Kaduna communities against illegal mining.

The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development on Saturday sensitised communities, as well as miners in Southern Kaduna on the dangers of engaging and allowing illegal mining activities in their localities.

The Town Hall Meeting organised by the North-West office of the Ministry of Solid Minerals was held in Kafanchan, Jamaa Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Zonal Mines Coordinator, Kutman Hosea-Ali, told the gathering that the ministry was committed to enhancing collaboration and understanding among all stakeholders by fostering a conducive environment for sustainable mining activities in the state.

He noted that Southern Kaduna was an emerging mining zone, hence the need for sensitisation.

He identified issues of consent, community development agreement, surface rent and environmental impact assessment as major sources of conflict between host communities and mining companies.

Ali urged mining companies to ensure they obtained the necessary mining licences and permits before mobilising people to the site.

He also enjoined artisanal miners to form a small-scale cooperative licence, to operate legally to enhance their activities.

“We are here on behalf of the minister who directed that a meeting of this nature should be held in Kaduna and Kafanchan in particular.

“This is because Southern Kaduna is coming up as an active mining zone; it’s active in the sense that lithium, which is becoming a hot cake globally, is found predominantly here.

“When they give you a mining license, before you do anything go and identify the owners of the land, show your license covers and explain to them all that is needed for proper understanding before proceeding to start mining,” he said.

Earlier, an operative from the Kaduna Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr Eric Billy, reminded the stakeholders that illegal mining was an economic crime that must be reported and offenders made to face the consequences.

“People should try and get the requisite license because there are a lot of those involved in this illegal licensing and when we (EFCC) go after them, they will complain of witch-hunting only for a deeper investigation to reveal they are culpable,” he said.

This was as the operative appealed to traditional and community leaders to always demand a copy of the mining license from companies and miners that operate in their environment.

Also speaking, the Second-in-command to the Kafanchan Police Area Command, CSP Samson Dodo, said the police would ensure that law and order are maintained at the various mining sites.

A representative of mining companies in the state, Monday Barau, attributed the poor contribution of the sector to Nigeria’s economy to illegal mining

He therefore solicited the support of stakeholders to reposition the mining sector and maximise its potential.

Among those in attendance at the one-day sensitisation meeting were different security agencies, traditional rulers, mining companies, and community and local government representatives.

Customs boss promises to boost efficiency with technology.

Customs boss promises to boost efficiency with technology.

Comptroller-General, NCS, Adewale Adeniyi.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has committed to adopting more advanced data analytics and digital technologies to streamline operations and decision-making.

According to a statement on Saturday via X, Adeniyi spoke at the NCS annual conference on Wednesday.

He described innovations as crucial for the agency to achieve its trade oversight goals amid evolving global dynamics.

“For progress, efficiency, and strategic planning within Customs administration, data in its form is a foundation for better decision-making, ensuring operational precision, and fostering a commitment to excellence,” Adeniyi told attendees.

He outlined multiple initiatives to integrate predictive data tools, machine learning, and AI that he said will “sharply shape modern Customs operations” by enabling proactive risk management, fraud detection, and trade facilitation.

Retired Deputy Comptroller General, Manassah Jatau, giving the keynote address, praised the NCS for embracing new technologies over the years.

He pushed officers to keep adapting, saying,”Those who cannot change their minds cannot change their heads.”

Retired Assistant Comptroller General, Kofo Olugbeson, meanwhile, reflected on past reforms that paved the way for growth.

She noted that global trade itself keeps evolving.

“There’s no present without the past. But the service must address emerging challenges through continued reforms, technology integration, and international collaboration,” Olugbeson said.

Minister calls for inclusion of women in peace building process.

Minister calls for inclusion of women in peace building process.

The Minister of Women Affairs, Barrister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has called for the inclusion of women in the nation’s peace building process to enable them to have a sense of belonging and social cohesion.

The ministry’s Head, Press and Public Relations, Grace Njoku, disclosed this in a statement posted on the official X handle of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation on Saturday.

According to the statement, the minister made the call in Abuja during the 4th Annual Forum of Women, Peace and Security Sector Reference Group organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs, in collaboration with United Nations Women and Nigerian Police Force.

The statement read, “She stated that women by their natural endowment have the resilience to tenaciously work towards ensuring a safe and united society that will provide an enabling environment for socio-economic growth and development of any nation, noting that this virtues also fall in line with the policy thrust of government.

“Kennedy-Ohanenye informed that no peace talk can be actualized without the involvement of women in the process because they occupy a vital position in society, as mothers, daughters and sisters.”

The minister further urged Nigerian women to strive to attain heights in their respective careers so as to contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the nation.

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).