FG Begins Teachers Recruitment For ‘Build-A-Thon’ Initiative.

FG Begins Teachers Recruitment For ‘Build-A-Thon’ Initiative. 

The Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy has announced the commencement of applications for teaching positions under its Build-A-Thon initiative programme.

The programme which was launched earlier in December, according to the Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, will promote early-technology adoption among senior secondary students.

The programme will run for four days in January 2024 and it is expected to have 1,500 students from 150 schools in three locations, Owerri, Maiduguri, and Abeokuta.

The ministry announced the call for applications from prospective teachers on Thursday on X.

The ministry added that the right candidates should be visionary educators, teachers, and enthusiasts who would be able to guide the next generation of tech innovators in secondary schools.

Interested and qualified candidates are to apply on the programme’s website.

Commenting on the launch of the programme recently, the minister said, “The Build-A-Thon initiative is part of our strategic plan to promote early-technology adoption to shape tomorrow’s innovation leaders.”

He added that the overall goal of the program includes showcasing innovative projects, recognising achievements, fostering future collaboration, inspiring future leaders, and promoting lifelong learning.

We'll maintain N3500 cement price beginning from January~ Alhaji Rabiu.

We'll maintain N3500 cement price beginning from January~ Alhaji Rabiu.

The chairman of the BUA Group, Alhaji Abdul-Samad Rabiu, has declared that the company will stick to its pledge to sell cement at N3,500 starting from January 2024.

He made this statement on Thursday, December 28, in Lagos while speaking with State House Correspondents following his meeting with President Bola Tinubu.

He promised that the business will also make the product available at a reasonably affordable price for consumers.

“You know the price that we have set will be N3,500 per bag. You know the tax of the factory of course plus VAT, and then the cost of delivery to customers depending on the region.

“As you know the number of factories that we have; one is in Edo, the other one is in Sokoto state. So for example, if you want us to deliver cement to you from Sokoto, say to Lagos, the price may differ. Also, from Edo to Adamawa or to Maiduguri, the distance is quite far.

“So it is dependent on the distance and also on the location. You know the price changes but we intend to keep that promise,” he said.

Oyebanji: The People's Governor Fostering People-Oriented Governance with a Focus on Citizens' Welfare.

Oyebanji: The People's Governor Fostering People-Oriented Governance with a Focus on Citizens' Welfare.                                                             By Comr Olamide Akinwumi. 

His Excellency, Governor Oyebanji, isn't just referred to as "the people's Governor" due to his ability to draw crowds in Ekiti, but rather for steering a people-oriented government. The moniker is well-earned as Governor Oyebanji consistently runs an administration focused on the welfare and engagement of the citizens.

The essence of his people-oriented governance is evident in his regular consultations and engagements with the people. These interactions are not mere formalities but crucial elements in understanding the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the citizens. Governor Oyebanji's commitment to these engagements reflects his dedication to responsive and inclusive governance.

In a recent community engagement program, Governor Oyebanji demonstrated his commitment to the people by extending Christmas gifts to all the communities represented. This gesture not only reflects the Governor's spirit of generosity but also embodies the principles of giving back to the community, a hallmark of his people-oriented approach.

The communities, beneficiaries of BAO's (Governor Oyebanji's initials) Christmas gifts, expressed gratitude for the thoughtful gesture, recognizing the Governor's commitment to fostering a sense of community and shared prosperity.

Governor Oyebanji's administration continues to set a precedent for people-oriented governance, emphasizing accessibility, inclusivity, and responsiveness. As "the people's Governor," he not only attracts crowds but actively engages with and addresses the needs of the people, making a tangible impact on the lives of Ekiti residents.

DIIF International Women Summit: Empowering Widows and Children, Promoting Wisdom and Philanthropy.

DIIF International Women Summit: Empowering Widows and Children, Promoting Wisdom and Philanthropy.

The Divine Intervention Impact Foundation (DIIF) marked a significant milestone with the 2023 DIIF International Women Summit, where Mrs. Funmilayo Okene, the President of DIIF, delivered an inspiring opening speech.

In her address, Mrs. Okene expressed joy in witnessing this year's edition of the Women Summit, thanking the Almighty for the day that not only signifies the essence of Christmas but also highlights the impactful work being done by DIIF. She extended her appreciation to the Directors of the organization, guests, dignitaries, team members, volunteers, and well-wishers present, recognizing the distinguished Guest Speakers, including Mrs. Adesanya Dorcas, Mrs. Bamidele Olaoye, Mrs. Adedoyin Sutton, Prof. Comfort Amire, and UN Ambassador Eunice Omolayo.

Mrs. Okene reflected on DIIF's achievements, highlighting the 2022 scholarship program that benefited over 250 children, along with partnerships with organizations like the Summit of Hope Foundation. She acknowledged contributions from Vitalink International Academy and Harmony International School. The Foundation's commitment to community welfare includes colorful children's parties, monthly relief item donations, and vocational training for youths and women.

This year's International Women Summit centered on the theme "Wise Woman," exploring the attributes of wisdom in women. The event offered free medical checkups, including blood tests, BP tests, body massages, and food donations. Over 110 beneficiaries, including Christian and Muslim women, widows, hearing-impaired individuals, and the physically challenged, attended.

Looking ahead, DIIF aims to support a widow in January 2024, focusing on providing education for her children and assisting her in starting a small business. Mrs. Okene emphasized the organization's openness to partnerships, collaborations, and sponsorships.

The event also acknowledged and appreciated donors, including Mrs. Adesanya Dorcas, Mrs. Modupe Fadare, Mr. Toluwaleyi Philip, Mr. Akinrinde Emmanuel, Mrs. Okeleji Oluwakemi, Mrs. Funmi Atoe, Mrs. Ololafe Yetunde, Mrs. Phoebe Ifesanmi, Adupsy International Catering Services, and John, Joan, and Joseph.

Mrs. Okene expressed gratitude to the management of DIIF, team members, volunteers, Fasho photo, well-wishers, and her family for their unwavering support. She closed by urging everyone to embrace the joy of the season and show love to the needy.

To support the widow and her children's education, donations can be made via Zenith Bank account number 1214037497 or by calling 08107105509.

The DIIF International Women Summit stands as a beacon of empowerment, wisdom, and philanthropy, embodying the spirit of compassion and community upliftment.

Progressive movement must deliver on quality education for all, jobs for youths ~ Tinubu.

Progressive movement must deliver on quality education for all, jobs for youths ~ Tinubu. 

President Bola Tinubu yesterday reiterated his commitment to the sustenance of the progressive ideology in the country.

He said the progressive democracy should offer solutions to the challenges of poverty through the provision of job opportunities for youths and quality education for children.

President Tinubu spoke Lagos, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Working Committee (NWC) unfolded plans to establish a National Institute of Progressive Studies, lunch an electronic registration and develop a reliable database.

Led by the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, the party commiserate with the president over the demise of the former House of Representatives Speaker Ghali Na’aba, and former Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the President expressed support for the establishment of the Institute

The President said the institute should be able to conduct diligent research and educate party members on the principles of democracy and good governance while providing a distinct identity for the platform.

He said: “Democracy has faced challenges in the past, but I believe in a promising future for our country. We will deliver it. I am committed to supporting a strong and ideologically-determined democracy that is progressive, inclusive, and focused on eliminating poverty while providing quality education for our children.

“Collaboration with various government arms is crucial, and I commend the leadership of our party for working hard to promote these essential ideals.”

The President urged the party leadership to target more youths and women in its e-registration and digital membership validation exercise scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of next year.

President Tinubu thanked members of the party for the overwhelming show of support during the campaigns, general election and period of litigation.

He said: “It has been a while since we have had the opportunity to come together, especially since the Supreme Court ruling. I had hoped for a gathering, but the demanding tasks of my office that we fought for have called for increased focus, dedication, and time,” the President said.

On the alarming figure of out-of-school children in the country, President Tinubusaid: ”We must address this issue by establishing more schools, recruiting teachers, and providing at least one meal a day for the school children, aligning with the progressive ideology we aim to pursue.”

APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje said the party will work for victory during the by-elections next year.

He said: “We assure Your Excellency that under our leadership and with your consent, strategies have been put in place to win the support of our people and secure all the seats available for the electoral contest.”

Sanwo-Olu targets PPP todeliver T.H.E.M.E.S. + agenda.

Sanwo-Olu targets PPP todeliver T.H.E.M.E.S. + agenda.

Going by the words of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his administration is targeting the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to deliver its T.H.E.M.E.S.+ agenda.

The PPP, a long-term arrangement between government and private sector operators, involves private capital financing government projects, particularly infrastructure and services up-front.

Sanwo-Olu’s first term agenda was based on T.H.E.M.E.S agenda, an acronym which stands for Transportation and Traffic Management; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos State a 21st Century Megacity, Entertainment & Tourism; and Security & Governance.

The governor said the ‘plus’ represents the incorporation of an intensified focus, in the next four years, on social inclusion, gender equality and youth.

He said: “In other words, we are strengthening and reinforcing T.H.E.M.E.S. with a ‘No One Left Behind’ philosophy. No one will be left behind on account of their social status, gender or age; we will design all our policies and programs to ensure that everyone is carried along and catered to. This is our solemn promise to you.”

The Office of Public-Private Partnerships (OPPP), Lagos State Government, an agency created by the 2011 PPP Law of Lagos State, facilitates the development of public infrastructure and provides social amenities and other facilities for Lagos State through the PPP.

The advantages of the PPP in Lagos cut across education, housing and transportation, among others. Other areas include: healthcare initiatives such as laboratory, radiology, blood screening and pharmaceutical services; x-ray and ultrasound machines at the Maternal and Child Centre (MCC), Eti-Osa.

In education, the collaboration with private developers is set to deliver 6,016-bed spaces at the Lagos State University (LASU), construction of 16 blocks of hostels of 94 rooms each with 376 beds per block has reached the completion stage.

The hostels are to solve the acute accommodation problems facing students in the state-run varsity.

Gov Oyebanji Signs Three Executive Orders.

Gov Oyebanji Signs Three Executive Orders. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has signed three executive orders aimed at accelerating the state’s investment drive and economic development.

The three Executive orders signed by the Governor on Wednesday are: Executive order 01 of 2023 on the Promotion of Transparency and Efficiency in the Business Environment; Executive order 02 of 2023- Establishment , Adoption and Implementation of Framework for Responsive and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agricultural Investment (FRILIA) and Executive order 03- Trade Grievances Redress Mechanism (GRM) to Address Complaints from Traders on issues such as Harassment, Unauthorised Payments and other in-Kind requests.

The Executive order 01 mandates some critical MDAs to publish on the state official website all relevant information on fees, procedures, Service Level Agreement (SLA), Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM)for all core business regulatory processes provided by the MDAs.

The affected MDAs include: Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment; Ministry of Infrastructure and Public utilities; Ministry of physical Planning and Urban Development; Ekiti State Signage and Advertising Agency; Ekiti State Internal revenue Services; and Bureau of Land Services .

The Executive Order 2 on establishment, adoption and implementation of framework for responsible and inclusive land –intensive agricultural investment stipulates strict adherence to core principles that mainstream international best practices, such as those based on the principles for Responsible Investment in Agriculture and food System and related principles and guidance. Into the development of agribusiness in the state for sustainable economic growth.

The order stipulates that investment must be conducted transparently, minimise adverse effects from land acquisition, ensure a range of inclusive investment and production models are considered and subject the investment to consultation and participation with potentially affected communities.

The Excutive Order number 03 on Trade Grievance Redress mandates the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to establish and maintain a trade Grievance Redress Mechanism (TGRM) responsible for addressing and resolving trade grievances submitted by the citizens’ businesses. Industries or individuals.

The Trade Grievance Redress Mechanism shall be in line with global practice and shall cover issues such as harassment, unauthorised payments and other in-kind request. In addition, the TGRM shall also consist of a grievance Redress Panel of experts and officials with expertise in trade matters , including representatives from relevant government agencies, industry associations and legal experts.  

The executive orders were signed by the Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji by virtue of the authority vested in him by the 1999 constitution of the federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the laws of Ekiti State.