Lagos pays N57bn to 16,340 retirees.

Lagos pays N57bn to 16,340 retirees.

The Lagos State government has paid N57.7bn to 16,340 pension benefits to retirees since May 2019 till date.

This was revealed by the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr Afolabi Ayantayo, during the 102nd batch of the retirement bond certificate presentation ceremony to retirees of the Lagos State Public Service.

He said, “Let me use this occasion to thank Mr Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, under his administration, the Lagos State Government has paid over N57.7bn to 16,340 retirees in the Mainstream, Local Government, State Universal Basic Board, Teaching Service Commission and other Parastatals of the State Government from May 2019 till date.

“Furthermore, Mr Governor has paid accrued pension rights of N1.26bn only into the Retirement Savings Accounts of 605 retirees this month, alongside their monthly contributions.”

The Director-General, Lagos State Pension Commission, Mr Babalola Obilana, thanked Sanwo-Olu for his commitment to the welfare of the people of Lagos State, saying, “He has continuously prioritised the needs of pensioners and approved policies to ease the financial burden on retirees.”

The director-general also thanked its stakeholders, the PFAs/insurance companies for their efforts towards the success of the Contributory Pension Scheme.

He said, “To our dear retirees, life after retirement is a transition from the hustle and bustle of a professional life to the serene embrace of well-earned leisure. Please remember that your contributions will always be cherished, and your impact will endure. May your days be filled with the joy of newfound freedom and the satisfaction of a well-lived professional journey.”

Agric ministry to supply 40% residents’ food needs.

Agric ministry to supply 40% residents’ food needs.

The Lagos State Government, on Thursday, said its goal in the agriculture sector was to supply 40 per cent of the food needs of residents of the state to achieve food security in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, stated this at the Lagos Food Systems Stakeholders’ Breakfast Meeting, held on Thursday at Protea Hotels, Alausa, Ikeja.

The programme, which was organised by the state’s Ministry of Agriculture, was aimed at keeping stakeholders in the sector abreast of developments in the ministry and its plans for the year 2024.

“The ultimate goal is that 40 per cent of our food needs, including rice, will be supplied to the system. 40 per cent gives us food security, not 100 per cent. If we can guarantee 40 per cent of our food needs; rice, tomato, yam, everything, which is part of why the logistic hub is very important to us; then we can rest assured that whatever happens, we are covered. That is the goal, that is objective we are working towards and I’m sure that we’ll get there,” Fashola said.

Giving updates on the operations of the Imota Rice Mill since its inauguration on January 22, 2023, the special adviser noted that about 120,000 bags of rice were produced at the mill in 2023, with the state selling a bag at N30,000 and later at N45,000 in December when market prices were N40,000 and N63,000 respectively.

“We started off by the generosity of Mr Governor selling a bag at N30,000 last year, at the beginning of the season, at the time the market price was N40,000. By December of last year, when we decided that we should move to N45,000, the market price was N63,000,” he said, adding that the state-produced rice is currently sold at N52,000 as against the N60,000 market price.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms Abisola Olusanya, highlighted the ministry’s plans towards ensuring food security in the state to include: the Lagos Red Meat Initiative; the Lagos Agri Business Support; the Lagos Food Systems Champions of the Future; and Lagos as Food Value Chains’ Destination, among others.

IG presents N2bn to families of deceased cops in Abuja.

IG presents N2bn to families of deceased cops in Abuja.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, on Thursday, presented N2.08bn cheques to families of police officers who died in active service in the last five years.

Presenting the cheques to 785 beneficiaries at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Egbetokun noted that no amount of money could equate to the lives of the deceased cops.

The money is a Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Scheme package.

Egbetokun said, “We appreciate the stewardship of President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s commitment towards the well-being of police officers, and we urge the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the money.

“We understand that no amount of money can bring back the lives of the officers lost, but this will help to cushion the effects of the gaps left behind.”

The Force Insurance Officer, CSP Lydia Ameh, stated that the cheque disbursement was made possible due to the paternal affection of the IG.

She said, “My sincere appreciation goes to the Inspector-General of Police, whose commitment, valued guidance, and extraordinary leadership role are crucial in ensuring that the Force cleared pending insurance claims which has resulted in the presentation of Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Scheme cheques to 785 next of kins/beneficiaries of our brave officers and men who lost their lives while on active duty for the Insurance Policy Years of 2015/2016, 2017/2018, 2021/2022, and 2022/2023, amounting to N2,086,801,144.79 which will go a long way to alleviate the sufferings of the families of our departed colleagues.

“While I share the feelings of the families of our deceased officers and men, I wish to express my gratitude to the inspector-general of police and his management team for their efforts which extend beyond procurement of the 2022/2023 insurance policy but include the complete settlement of all pending payments from previous years.”

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries, Donald Awunah jnr, son of a former Force Public Relations Officer, AIG Donald Awunah, who spoke on behalf of the beneficiaries, appreciated IG Egbetokun for his kind gesture and prioritizing the welfare of the families of the fallen heroes

Super Eagles Soar High with Victory Over Ivory Coast in AFCON 2023 Group A Clash.

Super Eagles Soar High with Victory Over Ivory Coast in AFCON 2023 Group A Clash.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a highly anticipated encounter on Matchday 2 of the AFCON 2023 Group A, Nigeria's Super Eagles secured a remarkable 1-0 victory against Ivory Coast. The lone goal came from the penalty spot, expertly converted by William Troost-Ekong in the 55th minute.

The Eagles displayed a thrilling combination of power and precision, conquering the Elephants on their home turf. The victory propels Nigeria into a strong position in Group A, showcasing their determination to make a significant impact in the tournament.

With this win, Nigeria joins Equatorial Guinea at the top of the Group A standings, both accumulating 4 points. Equatorial Guinea holds a superior goal difference, securing the top spot with a +2 goal difference, while Nigeria follows closely with a +1 goal difference.

Ivory Coast, despite a spirited effort, finds themselves in the third position with 3 points, having scored one goal and conceding one. Guinea-Bissau, yet to secure a point in the tournament, holds the fourth spot with a goal difference of -4.

The AFCON 2023 Group A is now poised for an intense battle in the upcoming matchdays as teams strive to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Nigeria's Super Eagles, with their recent triumph, have set a strong foundation for their campaign in the tournament.

Football enthusiasts eagerly await further clashes in Group A, as the teams vie for supremacy and aim to advance to the latter stages of the prestigious AFCON 2023.

Ekiti Govt To Set Up Committee Of Inquiry On Iworoko Obaship Crisis.

Ekiti Govt To Set Up Committee Of Inquiry On Iworoko Obaship Crisis.

Ekiti State Government has approved the establishment of a Committee of Inquiry to investigate the issue of Obaship succession in Iworoko Ekiti.

Giving a summary of the decisions of the State Executive Council from its meeting on Wednesday, the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, in a statement made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti, recalled that the succession struggle for throne of Alaworoko of Iworoko Ekiti followed the demise of Oba Michael Olufemi Aladejana on 16th of January, 2019.

Olatunbosun recalled that the immediate past Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi referred the contentious issues to the Irepodun/ Ifelodun Local Government Traditional Council, the home Local Government of the Iworoko community for inquiry and recommendations after receiving numerous petitions and counter petitions on the issue.

The Commissioner stated that though the Local Government Traditional Council reportedly conducted an extensive investigation and consultation and subsequently submitted a comprehensive report to assist the State Government resolve the differences in the family over the Obaship tussle, an Ekiti State High Court however nullified the report following a challenge by one of the feuding parties at the High Court on the ground that such Inquiry Committee could only be constituted by the Executive Council and not the Deputy Governor.

He assured that the Government remains impartial and committed to entrenching peace and development in all communities in the State.

Olatunbosun therefore urged all stakeholders in the imbroglio to support efforts of Government at engraining peace and resolving the succession issue.

Tinubu’s Aide, Asefon Sunday Unveils Nigerian Students Flag, Renewed Hope Students Agenda.

Tinubu’s Aide, Asefon Sunday Unveils Nigerian Students Flag, Renewed Hope Students Agenda.

Senior Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on students engagements, Hon. Comrade Asefon Sunday Dayo has unveiled Nigerian students flag and renewed hope students agenda.

In a press conference held by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, the unveiling of the Nigerian Students Flag and the Renewed Hope Students Agenda took center stage. The Senior Special Assistant addressed the media, emphasizing the significance of these initiatives for the student community. During the conference, details about the purpose and symbolism behind the Nigerian Students Flag were presented, underscoring a renewed commitment to students' aspirations and welfare. 

Text Of Press Conference By The

Senior Special Assistant To The President On Student Engagement On The Unveiling Of Nigerian Students Flag And The Renewed Hope Students Agenda:

The Honourable Minister, Students Leaders, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen.

I welcome you all to the official unveiling of the Nigerian Students Flags and the Renewed Hope Students Agenda.

I want to appreciate our Father, compassionate Leader and educational friendly President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his uncommon support to the Nigerian Students through his actions which signing the Students loan Act, Release of Tertiary institutions Intervention Fund, removal of Tertiary institutions from IPPS, Reversal of 40 percent, release of CNG Buses to Tertiary institutions among other initiatives.

Vision Statement:

Aspires to be a leading platform for promoting student engagement, empowering students leadership, and fostering a conducive learning environment that nurtures future leaders and contributes to National Development.

Mission Statement:

To serve as a bridge for students engagement in governance, policy formulation, and implementation to foster students leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, critical thinking, and social cohesion thereby prioritizing the needs and rights of students.

THE NIGERIAN STUDENTS RENEWED HOPE PROGRAM AGENDA.

1. Nigerian Student Leaders Regional Dialogue.

BRIEF: Identification and discussion of student challenges on campus, Sensitization on Student Loan scheme, Social Investment and Empowerment Programs of FG.

 

2. Annual International Students’ Day Celebration, PBAT National Student Leaders Submit and Unveiling of Renewed Hope Campus Ambassadors.

BRIEF; Annual international students’ celebration, National Student Union leaders’ summit to discuss progress and innovation in education sector as well as role of students as critical stakeholders in the sector.

3. Annual All Nigerian Tertiary Institutions Students Affairs Conference-ANTISAC.

BRIEF: A conference of all Dean of Students affairs of Tertiary institutions in Nigeria under a theme: effective management of student’s affairs to guarantee uninterrupted academic calendar.

4. Local and foreign Engagement of Student bodies/Inauguration of National Student Management Committee.

BRIEF; A. Diaspora Student Leaders Retreat.

B. Nigeria Student Leaders Conferences In UK, Canada and Europe in collaboration with Nigeria in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM.

5. Renewed Hope Local and Foreign Digital skills & Training Scholarship Scheme.

BRIEF; Sponsorship of best graduating students in ICT related courses in partnership with local and foreign Tech. Institutions in collaboration with NITDA, NCC, MIN of Communication & Digital Economy, State Government, Min of Sci. And Tech, and other relevant agencies.

6. Quarterly Engagement of past and current Student leaders to Dissect Social investment and Empowerment Programs of FG.

BRIEF; Review Federal Government Social Investment policies and Empowerment programs among the populace (feedback mechanisms) in collaboration with SEMDAN, Min of Trade & Investment, Min of Humanitarian and poverty Alleviation, NITDA, Min of Labour and others.

7. Partnership with Embassies and International Development organizations.

BRIEF: To attract value addition to Nigeria student community such as scholarship and exchange program.

8. Stakeholders Dialogue on Safe School project.

BRIEF; This in partnership with DSS, NSCDC, NPF, NIA, Military and other security agency to enhance security around schools and campuses.

9. Renewed Hope Academic Excellence Reward Scheme.

BRIEF: A befitting celebration and rewarding prize for overall best graduate from every Tertiary institution visa viz arrangements of automatic absorption into academic by school Authority and other MDAs.

10. Industrial Attachment and Internship placement scheme.

BRIEF; A scheme to accelerate perfect placement and mandatory absorption of IT students in various field in collaboration with CAC and MDAs.

11. National Student competition/Regional symposium on Reviving Reading Culture and use of library.

BRIEF: Readership Campaign in secondary school in collaboration with UBEC, JAMB and other Private sector players/NGO.

12. National and Regional Campaign against social vices among students on campus.

BRIEF; launching of campaign and sensitization on Drug Abuse, indecent dressing, Cyber Crime and others in collaboration with EFCC, ICPC, NDLEA, NOA, Security Agencies, Education Agencies and Departments.

13. Nigerian Students in Agriculture Program.

BRIEF; Student Farm Project in collaboration with Min of Agriculture, Nirsal, BOI, AfDB, DBN and other relevant MDAs.

14. Nigerian Students Climate Action Project.

BRIEF; A concerted student engagement in climate change action and activities in collaboration with SDG and other Local and foreign bodies.

15. Partnership and Collaboration with Private Sector for subsidized Products and Services.

BRIEF: A business negotiation with private sector, those offering student most patronized products and services for subsidized rate (Student Rate/Price) such as Telecom, NBC, Banks etc

With the above activities in place, We are convinced that the hope of Nigerian Students

will be re-invigorated in the administration of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

Thank you and God bless you all.

Oyebanji charges new LG bosses on accountability.

Oyebanji charges new LG bosses on accountability.

..…says I Won't touch LG Funds.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has charged newly inaugurated chairmen of councils in the state on the need to be accountable to the people even as he assured them that his administration would not divert nor touch allocations accruing to the local councils from the federation accounts.

 

The Governor also warned the Chairmen and other council officials against dropping his name to perpetrate fraud, saying whoever is caught in the web will face the full weight of the law.

In his determined action to stop pilfering of public funds in councils, Oyebanji cautioned against moving of public money into private accounts for direct labour projects, saying such act is tantamount to fraud and won't be tolerated under his leadership.  

Oyebanji stated these on Thursday, while flagging off a three-day retreat for the elected council chairmen and other top local government functionaries in Ekiti State, held at Adetiloye Hall, Ado Ekiti. 

Declaring open the retreat with the theme: “State and Local Government Strategic Planning and Implementation", the Governor assured that under no guise would he interfere with how the money appropriated for the councils are expended.

"Sometimes around December 2023, I learnt local government officials in each of the councils deducted N1m out of the money approved for Christmas celebration and claimed they wanted to give it to me. I didn't ask anybody to deduct any money for me. 

"This might be true and it might not be true . If it was true, I didn't get any money. Let me clear that I didn't ask anybody to bring any money to me. And I didn’t collect any money. Henceforth, when you hear something of this nature, quickly contact me. 

"Nobody should use my name for any fraudulent thing. I have made a covenant with God that such won't happen under me. I am not going to touch your money, but I won't allow you to spend it recklessly. Remember that humility in power is not a weakness, but a virtue".

Sharing his perspective on how an ideal local government system should be run, Oyebanji urged the Chairmen to be participatory, by consulting widely with all the communities to execute projects that would have direct impact on the masses.  

"Let me state here today that opportunities come with responsibilities. Those who elected you did that for a purpose. Your conduct will make the people form an opinion about our government. Your election is not an invitation for luxury, but for service. 

"The question you should ask yourselves is, how do I make a difference in the lives of the people? Ask yourselves, how will I be remembered after this office? Three years is short and will soon come to an end. Will people still welcome you home or ignore you, the choice is yours". 

Oyebanji appealed to the council bosses to undertake projects that are 21st century compliant and that are based on the current economic realities to be able to reduce poverty, unemployment and solve most challenges associated with the local communities. 

"What I have noticed is that, our people are stereotyped about Local Government system. This time, I don't expect you to be buying rechargable light that will be dead tomorrow or build markets that nobody will use. Nothing stops the LG from doing electricity for a town that has not enjoyed light for 10 years, because light is catalytic. 

"Nothing stops the LG from helping the farmers with seedlings, or provide tractorisation. Nothing stops you from empowering the traders. These are projects that resonate with the people. I closed my eyes to some things done under the last LG administration to avoid rancour , but for you, we are in the same boat together. I can hold you accountable for any of your actions".

Urging the new council helmsmen to be wary of their actions, Oyebanji reminded that "you are a product of the people's vote and your loyalty must be to the people. If your projects are popular among the people, the APC will be popular. After this retreat, go round the wards and collate what they want. It is the products that will form your Development Plans".

For accountability, transparency and probity, Oyebanji promised that his government will set up a Procurement Process and Office of Transformation and Service Delivery in all councils to monitor expenditure and performance.

The Governor appealed to the council chairmen not to adopt direct labour for all projects, urging them to patronise local contractors.

In his submission, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Folorunso Olabode, described the retreat as a strategic way of showing that the local government is strategic to the development plans of Ekiti State.

A Resource Person at the event, Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi, said the kernel of the retreat is to build a framework for effective partnership between the state and the local governments for operation devoid of division, so that the citizens could have value for their money.