Insecurity: Interior Minister makes case for NHFSS Bill.

Insecurity: Interior Minister makes case for NHFSS Bill.

Minister for Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has pledged to join other well-meaning Nigerians including policy makers in the call for the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS)

Bill to be signed into law.

He said once it is achieved, the service would be quickly be integrated into the federal security apparatus.

He said this when he hosted the management of NHFSS in Abuja.

The NHFSS team was led by the Commander General of the Service, Dr Joshua Osatimehin and comprised of Deputy Commanders General, Assistant Commanders General and other ranks.

While receiving the NHFSS top officials, the Minister commended the selfless efforts of the service towards curbing crimes and criminalities, especially acts perpetrated within the forests.

He said that Nigerians and the federal government are aware of the exploits of officers and men of the NHFSS who he said are complimenting the efforts of the Police, the Military and other relevant stakeholders.

Tunji-Ojo commended NHFSS, mainly because they are not yet on government’s payroll, yet, using their resources to compliment the work of security and other agencies to safeguard the nation and its resources.

He pledged to join other well-meaning Nigerians including policy makers and traditional rulers in the call for the NHFSS Bill to be signed into law, saying that once that is achieved, the Service would be quickly be integrated into the Federal Security apparatus.

Earlier, the Commander General of the NHFSS, Osatimehin, told the Minister that they were in his office to commend him on the positive turnaround of the activities of the Ministry since he assumed office as Minister.

Osatimehin particularly mentioned the revolution going on in the application and processing of passports for Nigerians which is now completed in a matter of days rather than months that was the case in the past, as well as the release of over 200,000 backlog of passports that were inherited by the Minister.

The NHFSS Commander General also used the opportunity of the visit to intimate the Minister of the activities of the Service, especially in the area of sharing intelligence with security organisations towards the fight against terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities in the country.

He told the Minister that the NHFSS Bill has been passed by the two chambers of the National Assembly, waiting for the President’s assent and solicited the Minister’s intervention.

He stated that the signing of the Bill into law would embolden officers and men of the Service to discharge their duties with vigour in order to help actualise President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the area of security of lives and property of Nigerians and other nationals living in the country.

Reacting to the visit, the Deputy Commander General of NHFSS in charge of Technical Services, Amb. John Metchie, commended Dr. Osatimehin for his selfless efforts in seeing that the Service becomes a federal government agency.

Metchie,who is also the African Director, International Association of World Peace Advocates, IAWPA, stated this while reacting to questions from newsmen on the outcome of the visit of the Commander General to the Interior Minister.

He said Osatimehin, whom he described as a great leader, has committed so much of his personal resources and time for the wellbeing of officers and men of the Service and has continued to champion the mantra of best quality service to fatherland.

Metchie assured that the entire management, officers and men of the NHFSS are proud of the Commander General and are solidly behind him, in his quest to ensure that the Service becomes a federal government agency.

The Harvest of Good Deeds: A Divine Drama Unveiled.

The Harvest of Good Deeds: A Divine Drama Unveiled.                                                                        By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi James. 

Characters:

• Grace, a compassionate young woman

• Wisdom, an elderly wise figure

• Charity, a selfless friend

• Joy, an optimistic individual

• Faith, a believer in the power of good deeds

Act 1: Planting the Seeds of Good Deeds

Scene 1: Grace's Garden of Kindness

In the quaint town of Benevolence, Grace, known for her selfless nature, tirelessly plants seeds of kindness in the hearts of those around her. Her actions include helping the elderly, supporting the needy, and offering a comforting presence to the distressed.

Bible Verse: Galatians 6:9 (NIV) - "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Scene 2: Wisdom's Wise Counsel

Wisdom, the town's elderly sage, observes Grace's acts of kindness. He advises her that every good deed sown is like planting seeds in the garden of life, ensuring a bountiful harvest in due time.

Act 2: Nurturing and Watering the Seeds

Scene 1: Charity's Supportive Actions

Charity, a dear friend of Grace, joins her in tending to the garden of kindness. Together, they water the seeds of compassion with love and understanding. Charity emphasizes the importance of consistency in nurturing the seeds for a flourishing garden.

Bible Verse: Proverbs 11:25 (NIV) - "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed."

Scene 2: Joy's Optimistic Outlook

As the garden begins to bloom, Joy, an optimistic soul, marvels at the beauty of the blossoming flowers. She expresses how the joy derived from doing good deeds extends beyond the doer to the entire community, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

Act 3: The Harvest of Abundance

Scene 1: Faith's Belief in Divine Reward

Faith, a devout believer, shares the biblical perspective on reaping the rewards of good deeds. She reminds the community that the harvest is not merely a result of their efforts but is divinely orchestrated for those who persist in doing good.

Bible Verse: Luke 6:38 (NIV) - "Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Scene 2: The Bountiful Harvest:

As the community continues to sow seeds of kindness, the garden transforms into a landscape of abundance. The characters, each having played a role in this drama, stand together, witnessing the fruits of their collective good deeds.

In Conclusion:

"The Harvest of Good Deeds" unfolds as a divine drama, showcasing the profound impact of selfless actions on individuals and the community. In the garden of life, where seeds of kindness are sown, the promise of a bountiful harvest remains steadfast. As the characters join hands, they exemplify the beauty of a community flourishing in love, compassion, and the rewards of their collective goodness.

Comr. Olamide Akinwumi James is a Public Relations Specialist, Writer, Content Creator and Journalist. He can be reached through: Akinwumiolamide09@gmail.com, 09068215955.

Wike Cautions Politicians: "Don't Pull the Ladder You Used in Climbing".

Wike Cautions Politicians: "Don't Pull the Ladder You Used in Climbing".

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike

The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to politicians amidst the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, emphasizing that the turmoil is not an ethnic conflict. Wike urged politicians not to undermine the structures that elevated them to their esteemed positions.

Speaking on Sunday during an address to traditional rulers from Ogba land who congratulated him on his 56th birthday, Wike underscored that his political team in the state would not permit any force to bring it down.

"No politician will fold his hands and allow to be dragged down. I and my team would accept peace, but we won't allow ourselves to be dragged down because when we go down, who will protect our people? Who will talk about our own interest?" Wike asserted.

The former Rivers State governor expressed his willingness to consider peace in resolving the political crisis, highlighting that the state's citizens did not vote based on ethnicity in the last gubernatorial election.

Wike emphasized the importance of adhering to rules and regulations in every social group, drawing parallels between traditional institutions and politics. He cautioned against violating established norms, stating, "Don't pull the ladder that you used in climbing. When you are coming down, the ladder may not be there. Also leave the ladder so that other people can also climb."

The political tension in Rivers State has recently been marked by conflicts between Wike and his political godson, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The discord resulted in the bombing of the state House of Assembly complex, an attempted impeachment of Fubara, and the defection of 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.

President Tinubu Urges Nigerians to Exercise Fairness Amidst Economic Challenges.

President Tinubu Urges Nigerians to Exercise Fairness Amidst Economic Challenges.

In response to the prevailing economic challenges in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has called on citizens not to exploit the situation for undue profit. The National Bureau of Statistics recently reported a 28.2% inflation rate, marking the highest since August 2005.

Acknowledging the impact of certain economic policies on the populace, Tinubu, in an interview on Sunday, expressed his awareness of the severity of the crisis. He emphasized the global nature of the challenge, citing the escalating costs of living, and assured Nigerians that proactive measures were being taken by his administration.

"As your president, I am deeply aware of the economic crisis’s severe impact on Nigerians, and we are part of a global challenge with the rising costs of living. To help our people, my administration is taking proactive steps. Moreover, we urge all Nigerians to be mindful of the current economic situation and avoid exploiting it for abnormal profits," Tinubu stated.

Addressing the Federal Government's conditional cash transfers to 15 million households, Tinubu expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the initiatives. He highlighted their significance in providing relief to the most vulnerable segments of the population, especially during the year's final quarter when the prices of basic items typically rise.

"I am steadfast in my belief in the efficacy of our cash transfer initiatives. These initiatives are a crucial part of our strategy to target and provide relief to the most vulnerable segments of our population, especially during the last three months of the year when the prices of basic items typically rise," he affirmed.

As the nation grapples with economic strains, President Tinubu's call for fairness aims to foster a collective responsibility to navigate these challenging times.

First Lady gives rescued Katsina varsity students scholarship, laptops.

First Lady gives rescued Katsina varsity students scholarship, laptops.

First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Sunday, received four of the five students of Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Katsina State, rescued from kidnappers at the State House.

This was as she described learning and education as veritable weapons in the fight against terrorism and criminality by individuals and communities.

Each girl also received a scholarship grant of N1m and a brand-new laptop from the Renewed Hope Initiative as Tinubu announced that the Federal Government would give a sum of N2m to the parents of each of the rescued girls and N1m to the Vice Chancellor of the university.

The Senior Special Assistant to the First Lady on Media, Busola Kukoyi, disclosed this in a statement she signed on Sunday, titled ‘First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, says education is the great weapon in the fight against terrorism.’

The statement quoted Tinubu as saying,, “I join a cheerful nation to welcome our beloved daughters home as you reunite with your families. We grieved over the sad fate that had befallen you and we join your family to celebrate your safe return.

“Since your dreadful abduction on October 5, 2023, it has been a period of pain for you, your parents, your teachers and indeed all Nigerians. Throughout this period, we have kept faith and trust in God and in our law enforcement agencies that you will return safely.

“Since the incident, law enforcement officers from various agencies worked tirelessly to ensure your return home. Today, we thank the Almighty God for protecting you and reuniting you with your loved ones.”

The First Lady assured the rescued girls of the Federal Government’s commitment and that of the Renewed Hope Initiative, to support them psychologically and with their education as they begin their healing after more than 70 days in captivity.

She added that their experience must not hinder their educational pursuits and career interests.

“Beyond your safe return, we would follow up on your journey not only to recover from this sad episode in your lives but to see that you accomplish your mission in your educational pursuit and career interests.

“Already, I have been briefed on the courage you have shown so far and I encourage you to turn this episode in your lives, into a story of triumph.

“You must continue to pursue your educational interests. By ensuring that you continue to learn, as we provide you with the necessary medical and psychological support, we at the Renewed Hope Initiative, are also committed to providing you with guidance and support to reach your full potential,” she explained.

The former lawmaker noted that their experience and that of other Nigerians who have been kidnapped is “difficult” encouraging them that this phase will pass with the determination and tenacity of the security and intelligence forces and the support of all Nigerians.

She expressed gratitude for their safe return and commended the leadership role of the Office of the National Security Adviser.

She also praised the effective coordination of law enforcement agencies “who worked diligently over the past few months to ensure their safe return and the return of every Nigerian held against their will,” the statement read.

The representative of the National Security Adviser, Brigadier General Olutayo Adesuyi, while handing over the girls, said the First Lady meeting with the rescued girls is significant as it shows the solidarity of the Federal Governments’ support.

Present at the meeting were the parents of the rescued girls, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin Ma Katsina, a Representative of the Inspector General of Police and the National Counter Terrorism Legal Officer.

Embrace ethical leadership, Adeleke urges African leaders.

Embrace ethical leadership, Adeleke urges African leaders.

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has urged those in positions of authority in Africa to embrace the ethical leadership model in a bid to ensure excellence in public service and good governance.

The governor made this known while delivering a convocation lecture on the theme: Imparting Excellence, Integrity and Service: Nurturing Ethical Leaders in Changing World’ at Valley View University, Accra, Ghana, after the university had conferred on him an honorary doctorate degree.

Adeleke, who identified attributes of ethical leaders, said they were always rule-driven, honest, consistent, goal-driven and oriented towards the aspirations of the people, added that such leaders would avoid corruption and ensure public resources serve the public interest.

He, however, noted that such leaders existed within the African political space but were few, lamenting that leaders in Africa were often faced with multiple issues that would undermine the drive for excellence.

Proffering solutions to this challenge, Osun State Governor, in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, obtained in Osogbo on Sunday, further said, “It is my considered opinion that embracing an ethical leadership model will speed up the achievement of public service excellence and good governance in Africa.

“Doing the right thing as a leader in policy delivery is the expected output of every public leader. Ensuring the best service delivery with the right moral compass is the best expectation in public life. Achieving both excellence and integrity is the calling of ethical leaders.

“Many leaders lack credibility and legitimacy as the process of their ascendance to power is suspect. Afterward, governance becomes a difficult task as many leaders are engaged in the continuous suppression of the rule-driven system.

“To achieve excellence in public leadership, Africa is in dire need of ethical leadership. We need leaders who will avoid corruption and a despotic mindset and support deep adherence to the rule of law. We must ensure the survival of democracy by sticking to the rule and eschewing disobedience of the electoral will of the citizens. Leaders must see their offices as a call to duty to serve and not to be served, to consult and not to dictate, and to observe and not violate the rule of law.

“In my state back in Nigeria, I have four rules of engagement as a Governor, namely adherence to the rule of law, zero tolerance for corruption, commitment to good governance and fear of God in public leadership.”

Speaking earlier, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof William Koomsion, said the institution reviewed Adeleke’s antecedent as a businessman and ex-federal lawmaker, alongside his ethical leadership since assuming the governorship of Osun, to arrive at its decision.

He lauded the governor’s multi-million naira education scholarship as a Senator, his sterling records on workers’ welfare as a governor, his performance on infrastructure upgrades and his commitment to due process, the rule of law and fear of God.

Sanwo-Olu launches N750m palliative scheme for Lagos traders.

Sanwo-Olu launches N750m palliative scheme for Lagos traders.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday, launched a palliative scheme, Lagos Market Trader Money, to support low-income traders.

The governor disclosed this during the unveiling of a middle-level Fresh Food Agro Hub in the Mushin area of the state.

According to a post on his X handle on Sunday, the first phase of the Lagos Market Trader Money will provide N50,000 business grants to 15,000 traders across the state’s 57 local councils.

His wrote, “Today, I launched a fresh palliative scheme in Lagos to support low-income traders. The Lagos Market Trader Money in its first phase will provide N50,000 business grants to 15,000 traders across our 57 local councils.

“This initiative aims to cushion the impact of economic challenges and empower small businesses.”

 

Addressing the food agro hub, the governor wrote, “The inauguration of the Fresh Food Agro Market in Mushin aligns with our vision for a coordinated food security network. Our roadmap prioritizes boosting food production, processing, and marketing. This facility maximises storage and offers consumers affordable fresh farm produce.

“This milestone facility signifies a turning point in Lagos’ food distribution system, paving the way for improved logistics and modernization of our markets.

“I am grateful for the support and appreciation from traders and community leaders in Mushin. The completion of this market project and the launch of Lagos Market Trader Money is a step towards bettering the lives of our market communities.”