Reps probe N11m JAMB remittances.

Reps probe N11m JAMB remittances.

The House of Representatives is to set up a committee to look into discrepancies in the remittances of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board to the coffers of the Federal Government.

The decision to set up the committee followed the non-reconciliation discovered in the books of the examination body and the account of the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

Appearing before the House Committee on Basic Education and Examination Bodies on Wednesday, JAMB Registrar, Prof Ishaq Oloyede, said the examination body started remitting revenue to the Consolidated Revenue Fund less than a year after he assumed office.

He informed the committee that in 2017, JAMB remitted N7.8bn and followed it up with N5.2bn, N3.68bn, N3.82bn, N3.5bn and N3.1bn in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 respectively.

Oloyede further told the lawmakers that JAMB under his stewardship generated internal revenue of N13.33bn, N11.35bn, N9.74bn and N12.62bn respectively in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022.

However, a discrepancy to N11m was established with the submission of Mrs Lucy Anom who represented the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, prompting the Chairman of the Committee, Afoji Obuku, to call for a sub-committee to look into the alleged differences and report back to the Committee on Basic Education.

Meanwhile, JAMB has kicked against the Federal Government’s automated deduction of funds accruing to it from the registration fees paid by candidates sitting for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.

Oloyede said the practice was significantly reducing its revenue contribution to the CRF.

“We tell the government not to pay us salaries. We generate our monies but these auto deductions are affecting our revenue for capital projects,” he said.

A member of the committee, Oyedeji Oyeshina (PDP, Oyo) pointed out that JAMB’s revenue generation and remittances to the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the federation had reduced since 2019.

But speaking, Oloyede explained that from the schedule of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR of the board from 2019 to 2022, there was a significant reduction in remittances of revenue to the coffers of the federal government due to the reduction of examination fees for UTME candidates.

He further explained that the examination fee was reduced in 2019 from N5,000 to N3500, adding that the federal government had kicked off automated deduction of the internal revenue remittances after the reduction of the examination fee was approved and effected by the board.

The committee, which assured of effective oversight of the examination body and some other agencies, had earlier requested the annual audited accounts, procurement plans, schedule of Internally Generated Revenue, IGR and evidence of remittances from JAMB.

The committee further tasked JAMB to furnish it with a comprehensive list of its staff strength to determine the level of compliance with the Federal Character Principle.

Tinubu’s govt determined to protect MSMEs – Shettima.

Tinubu’s govt determined to protect MSMEs – Shettima.

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Wednesday said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains determined to protect businesses in Nigeria.

He premised this on the notion that enterprises are not only the very bedrock of a society but also reflect the government’s direction and the speed with which it is doing so.

“Allow me to emphasise the importance of this moment: there is no more fitting time than now to reinforce the protection of enterprises in Nigeria,” Shettima said when he commissioned the corporate headquarters of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

The Senior Special Assistant to the VP of Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, disclosed this in a statement he signed on Wednesday titled, ‘Our resolve to protect SMEs remain unshaken – VP Shettima.’

The VP affirmed that the Tinubu administration strategically focuses on job creation, capital accessibility, economic growth and poverty eradication to revamp the economy.

He said “These enterprises not only stand as the very bedrock of our society but also reflect the direction the government is headed and the velocity with which we do so.

“This moment solidifies His Excellency President Bola Tinubu’s assurance to protect our enterprises. It resonates deeply within our economic revitalisation plan.”

Shettima said the administration’s focus on job creation, capital accessibility, economic growth, and poverty eradication forms the skeleton of its strategy to invigorate the economy. Inevitably.

“This path demands tough decisions, yet ones essential to our success,” he reasoned.

The VP also recalled that he had inaugurated the National MSME Council ten days ago, saying it was just the beginning that sets the stage for what is up ahead.

Explaining how President Tinubu intends to ensure the success of businesses and other economic enterprises in the country, the VP said, “Notably, our partnership with the Bank of Industry to unveil a N75 billion, 9 per cent interest loan accessible to Nigerian MSMEs as of January 2024 is a pivotal stride.

“This initiative is geared towards fostering a more conducive and enabling business environment.”

He argued that the current government not only boasts of some of the nation’s finest talents but also champions those invested in ensuring Nigerian business owners have front-row seats in its progress.

He declared, “Our goal is to cultivate an ecosystem where Nigerian businesses become regular features in globally recognised publications such as Forbes, Bloomberg, and the Financial Times for the right reasons.

“We are all well aware that Mr President’s readiness to take action has never faltered, and what we are witnessing here is just a component of the strategies in place to create a future brimming with endless opportunities”.

The Vice President congratulated the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, and the leadership of SMEDAN, saying they have proven that they are ready to transform “concepts into tangible actions.

“This initiative renews hope for a critical segment of our entrepreneurial community, and highlights our sensitivity to the economic clock of the nation,” he added.

Earlier in her remarks, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Uzoka-Anite, thanked Vice President Shettima for his unwavering support of MSMEs in the country.

She said the completion and commissioning of the new SMEDAN Complex is a clear demonstration of the commitment of the Tinubu administration to the development of the MSME space.

She also outlined other initiatives of the FG to build capacity and link MSMEs to markets at home and abroad.

For his part, the Director General of SMEDAN, Mr Charles Odii, thanked the Vice President for his support and guidance in the actualisation of the project and leadership in the MSME space.

Odili assured Shettima that the agency will continue collaborating with sister organisations to ensure sustainable growth in the sector.

Other dignitaries at the event were the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Industry, Trade and Investment, Fadahunsi Anthony; Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta, Asuquo Ekpenyong; Chairman of the House Committee on Small and Medium Enterprises, Mansur Soro; Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Evelyn Ngige, as well as heads of government agencies and parastatals.

Comr Akinwumi Celebrates Gov Oyebanji At 56th, Applauds Him for Exemplary Good Governance in Ekiti State.

Comr Akinwumi Celebrates Gov Oyebanji At 56th, Applauds Him for Exemplary Good Governance in Ekiti State.

In celebration of His Excellency Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's birthday, Comrade Olamide Akinwumi, the director of Sky Media Consult, a News Media & PR firm, has expressed heartfelt admiration for the Governor's exemplary leadership, lauding his commitment to good governance in Ekiti State.

Gov Oyebanji during Commissioning of Ado-Ekiti Ring Road.

Comrade Olamide Akinwumi, a skilled journalist, specifically applauded Governor Oyebanji for fostering youth inclusion in various political positions, a move that demonstrates his dedication to empowering the younger generation.

The commendation extended to the Governor's compassionate approach to addressing the needs of elderly citizens in the state, showcasing his attentiveness to the welfare of every demographic.

Furthermore, Governor Oyebanji received praise for implementing initiatives that significantly improved the lives of civil servants. These initiatives, including access to cars, housing loans, and more, reflect a profound commitment to the well-being of those in public service.

The Governor's innovative programs in the energy sector, resulting in restored electricity to Gbonyin Local Government and other affected areas, were also acknowledged, highlighting his transformative impact on infrastructure.

Governor Oyebanji's outstanding contributions to the educational sector received resounding applause, with notable achievements and records that have elevated the standard of education in Ekiti State.

Comrade Olamide Akinwumi took the opportunity to appreciate the Governor for the consistent and timely payment of pensions and gratuities, a testament to the administration's commitment to the welfare of retirees.

As Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji celebrates another year, Comrade Olamide Akinwumi extends warm and heartfelt wishes for the Governor's well-being, the prosperity of his family, wisdom for his administration crew, and ongoing progress and harmony for the people of Ekiti State. Akinwumi expressed, "Happy Birthday, Your Excellency! May your days overflow with joy, success, and divine guidance. May God Almighty shower blessings, provide protection, and grant divine knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, ensuring sound health for you, your family, and your administration crew. Amen."

Borno First Lady Reaches Out to Over 600 Christian Women, Widows, and Other Vulnerable Families With Christmas Gifts.

Borno First Lady Reaches Out to Over 600 Christian Women, Widows, and Other Vulnerable Families With Christmas Gifts.

In a heartfelt gesture to promote unity and share in the joy of the Christmas season, Borno State First Lady, Dr. Falmata Babagana Umara Zulum, extended her benevolence to Christian widows and less privileged individuals at the Multipurpose Hall of the Government House in Maiduguri on Wednesday.

The Christmas gifts distributed by the First Lady included a 25kg bag of rice, one gallon of palm oil, and a cash gift for each beneficiary. This initiative aimed to ensure that Christian families experience a fulfilling and joyous Christmas celebration.

Hajjia Zuwaira Gambo, the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, expressed commendation in her welcome remarks. She praised the First Lady for her sustained kind gestures over the years, emphasizing that these acts were driven by passion, love, and the promotion of unity among the entire people of the state.

Madam Asabe, the Chairperson of the Borno State Widows Association, conveyed gratitude to the First Lady for her thoughtful outreach to the Christian community during this festive period. She reassured the First Lady, stating, "We want to assure you that by the grace of God, the celebrations will be marked peacefully in the State."

This compassionate effort by Dr. Falmata Babagana Umara Zulum reflects the spirit of giving and inclusivity during the holiday season, fostering a sense of community and shared joy among the diverse population of Borno State.

Ondo Poly Workers Protest Non-Payment of Salaries.

Ondo Poly Workers Protest Non-Payment of Salaries.

In a display of frustration and dissatisfaction, members of staff from Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, staged a protest on Wednesday, highlighting their discontent over the non-payment of salaries and allowances spanning 10 months.

The aggrieved workers, rallying under the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions and the Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics, took to blocking the main gate of the institution during the protest. Armed with leaves, the protesters voiced their grievances through solidarity songs, directed at both the school and the government.

Their primary demands include the immediate payment of all outstanding salaries and the implementation of the N35,000 wage award for polytechnic staff, as directed by the Federal Government.

Nafiu Okoro, the Chairman of SSANIP, expressed concern over irregularities in salary payments, attributing some untimely deaths among workers to this issue. He revealed that the institution's management owes over 10 months' salaries to the non-teaching staff, comprising NASU and SSANIP.

"All non-teaching staff, comprising NASU and SSANIP, agreed that the government should pay all our outstanding salaries running to over 10 months. The N35,000 wage being paid to workers as palliatives in Ondo State should be extended to the institution," Okoro emphasized.

As of the time of reporting, the Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Mr. Femi Agagu, was unavailable for reaction, with calls to his phone going unanswered and a text message sent to him remaining unaddressed.

EKSG to Adopt Mentoring, Role Modeling Concepts to Drive Human Capital Devt — Deputy Gov.

EKSG to Adopt Mentoring, Role Modeling Concepts to Drive Human Capital Devt — Deputy Gov.

The Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has declared the readiness of the state government to adopt the concepts of  role modeling and mentorship to develop the productive population in skills and intellectual capacities. 

Mrs Afuye spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Wednesday, at a stakeholders' sensitization workshop on Human Capital Development (HCD) held at the instance of the federal and state governments. 

At the event, the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji and the Managing Director, Arog Bio Services, Dr. Temitope Aroge, were decorated as champions and promoters of HCD in the state .

Mrs Afuye, according to a statement by her Special  Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, said the measure that will be adopted, is to rally the support of youth who have excelled in their chosen careers to support HCD.

"This we will do to bring them in as mentors, role models and funders of HCD. Our governor, Biodun Oyebanji is passionate about HCD and nothing will be left undone to make Ekiti an epicentre of youth development in Nigeria".

Describing her investiture as an HCD champion as highly challenging and  honourable, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, pledged that the Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) project her office was propelling, has committed  funds sourced from government, private organisations and individuals to fight poverty in Ekiti. 

Dr Oyebanji, represented by the Commissioner for Women's Affairs, Peju Babafemi, said she has deployed the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) and WAOH under her supervision, to tackle cases relating to adolescent problems, homelessness, widowhood challenge and many others.

The First Lady pledged her commitment to continue to back the government to overcome the challenges of unemployment and other associated problems in the state.  

Another HCD champion, Dr Temitope Aroge, advised the youth population not to be disillusioned by societal problems confronting them, urging that they should  key into all government activities tended toward imbue them with skills and intellect to operate under a 21st century economy.

The Southwest HCD Regional Consultant, Dr. Adedayo Adeyanju, said a vivid study of the manifesto of Oyebanji's government portrayed him as a rabid lover of Human Capital Development. 

"Apart from the fact that HCD represents a  whole pillar in his policy thrust, other areas like Youth Development and Job Creation, agriculture and rural development are other areas that deal directly with human development. I give kudos to this government.

"I know Ekiti will be a focus in the Southwest because I have no doubt that you have a lot to showcase when it comes to HCD. I also appeal to the champions to help us mobilise resources to empower our teeming youth. 

"Nigeria HCD is very poor going by Wold bank rating. We are still at 36%, which is not good enough.We are still having cases of school drop out, poor health indices and increasing unemployment. If we focus on this sector, we will have enough population to contribute to our Gross Domestic Productive (GDP)". 

Also expousing his views on the HCD in relation to Oyebanji's administration, the Director General/ Special Adviser, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr. John Ekundayo, revealed that the government decided to make HCD a pillar for accelerated  economic development.

Ekundayo differed with the widespread impression that Nigerian youth are lazy, and are only interested in money, clarifying that many productive youth are blazing the trail in farming, manufacturing, trading and commerce.

"This government will continue to identify hardworking youth and train them with relevant skills , vocations and intellectual power in their areas of interests to be able to contribute to economic growth. I don't believe that all the youth are lazy".

In his submission, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Development, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, said HCD deals centrally with skills and  intellectual development of every productive youth, assuring that the present government won't joke with such a significantly relevant sector .

Deploy military to Cross River, Reps urge Tinubu.

Deploy military to Cross River, Reps urge Tinubu.

The House of Representatives, on Wednesday, called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently deploy military forces to the Okwa community, in Cross River State, to protect the nation’s territorial integrity and ensure the safety of her citizens following an alleged invasion by bandits from neighbouring Cameroon.

This is just as the lawmakers urged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to initiate diplomatic efforts to address the development and seek a peaceful resolution to the security challenges in the region.

Consequently, the Committees on Defence, Foreign Affairs, Security and Intelligence, were mandated to oversee and ensure the effective implementation of the measures, maintaining vigilant oversight on the protection of the Okwa community and the interest of the nation at large.

These resolutions were sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent importance titled, ‘Threat of invasion of Okwa community, Boki Local Government Area by Cameroon,’ sponsored by a member representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency, Cross River State, Mr. Victor Abang.

The House noted that there is a high-level threat and security concern in Okwa Community, adding that on December 11, 2023, heavily armed individuals, suspected to be of Cameroonian origin, boldly invaded the community, shooting sporadically, issuing threats to burn down the community, and prohibiting locals from accessing their farmland without any provocation.

This fiasco, the House said, has created distress, and fear among residents of Okwa.

It also noted that “this distressing situation” followed the summary execution of the Clan Head of the Belegette Clan (a neighbouring community) in Obanliku Local Government Area of the state; Chief Ogweshi Ongwele, on December 5, 2023.

The House said this event resulted in the injuries of 30 individuals, the kidnapping of an unspecified number of people, and the destruction of the community by the same assailants from Cameroon.

It said the devastation has left the citizens of the Okwa community in a state of apprehension and unable to access their farmland.

The House said it was aware that Okwa, a Nigeria community shares borders with communities in Southeastern Cameroon and lies within the Gorilla Protection Unit of the Okwangwo Division of the Cross River National Park. It is crucial to recognize that Okwa is an integral part of Nigeria, inhabited by Nigerian citizens who strongly identify with their Nigerian heritage.

It noted this was not a case of border dispute but an invasion of Nigeria’s sovereignty by another country which amounts to an act of war and violation of the principles of international law on international boundaries.

The House worried that “we might wake up one day as a house to hear that the people of Okwa have been completely annihilated by the same invaders from another country. Because, even as we speak now the threat level remains very high.”

It was concerned that “if immediate and deliberate actions are taken once and for all to ensure the security of Nigerians and their properties in the borderland, preserving the strength and integrity of our nation, our entire eastern border will one day be adjusted to suit the Cameroon National interest.”