Reps direct ministry to refund N75b COVID-19 intervention fund to Fed Govt.

Reps direct ministry to refund N75b COVID-19 intervention fund to Fed Govt.

.....Health Ministry asked to refund N10b.

The House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts yesterday asked the Federal Ministry of Industries, Trade and Investments to refund the N75 billion allocated to it as COVID-19 intervention funds to the coffers of the government.

The committee also asked the Federal Ministry of Health to return to government coffers N10 billion meant for vaccine production, which was not utilised for that purpose.

 The committee gave the directive to the two ministries at the resumed investigative hearing on the expenditure of the COVID-19 intervention fund by MDAs.

 The committee frowned at the refusal of the Ministry of Industries to honour its invitation on three occasions without any excuse.

 Adopting a motion by Bassey Akiba (LP, Cross Rivers), the committee asked the ministry to refund the money appropriated to it during the intervention on COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

It said the money should be refunded with immediate effect to government coffers.

The committee adopted the motion after it was seconded and directed that the ministry refund the funds to the Federal Government.

Committee Chairman Bamidele Salam (PDP, Osun) had informed members that despite series of invitation extended to the ministry, its officials had failed to respond or appear before the committee.

 Salam said: “The Federal Ministry of Industries, Trade and Investments got N75 billion as COVID-19 intervention funds. The Public Account Committee has sent an invitation to the Ministry of Industries, Trade and Investments three times, and none of the invitations has been honoured.

  “The Federal Ministry of Trade was to make their appearance yesterday. That was the last opportunity given to them, but there was no such appearance. The sum of N75 billion was appropriated to them.

 “A former Permanent Secretary and the current Permanent Secretary are affected by this motion to refund N75 billion to the Federal Government as COVID-19 intervention which, as far as we are concerned, has not been expended.”

 The committee also directed the Federal Ministry of Health to return N10 billion meant for the production of COVID-19 vaccines but was not utilised to the government.

 The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Daju Kachallom, had informed the committee that the funds were domiciled in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.

 The committee said the funds should be returned, adding that if the ministry needed it for anything else, they should make a fresh request to the National Assembly for proper appropriation.

 Also, the committee asked the Chief Executive Officer of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Salihijo Ahmed, to submit documents on the utilisation of the agency’s COVID-19 intervention funds before the close of work today.

 The Public Accounts Committee is investigating 56 Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) on the utilisation of COVID-19 intervention funds after a resolution on a motion by Zakariah Dauda Nyampa (PDP, Taraba).

 Also, the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, who attended yesterday’s hearing, said the agency got N7.7 billion COVID-19 intervention fund.

Southsouth governors unite for region’s development.

Southsouth governors unite for region’s development.

Southsouth governors yesterday resolved to work with President Bola Tinubu to improve the standard of living of the people of their zone.

They also reiterated their determination to address the socio-economic challenges of the oil and gas-rich zone.

They said after a meeting in Benin, Edo State capital, that it had become very expedient for Southsouth to redefine its place and roles in the economic development of the country.  

The meeting held under the BRACED (Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo and Delta) Commission elected Governor Godwin Obaseki as chairman. 

Governors Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Sim Fubara (Rivers) and Umo Bassey Eno (Akwa Ibom) attended the meeting. Bassey Otu(Cross River) of Cross River State was absent.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State was represented by his deputy, Monday Onyeme, at the meeting that also had all the commissioners of budget and planning of the six states in attendance.

Obaseki, who read a communiqué after the parley, noted that the meeting was held at a time Nigeria was facing enormous challenges.

He said: “It is against this background that the Southsouth region must redefine its place and roles in the economic development of Nigeria and for the benefit of our people.

“The director-general of the commission made a presentation, briefing the members on the works done by the commission since it came into inception, especially in the areas of agriculture, power, education, environment and sports.

“The council members spoke of the compelling need to collectively accelerate the development of the states and affirmed their support for the imperatives of the Southsouth economic cooperation and integration, as a practical step towards the creation of a zone of economic development.

“The council resolved as follows:

· “to foster regional economic cooperation and integration, to achieve sustainable development, through the development of a strong regional economy for the collective benefits of the people of the Southsouth and invigorate the process of regional economic cooperation and integration.

“to establish and inaugurate the BRACED Business Council. This council will endeavour to forge a closer partnership with the business council and utilise it to provide an improved business climate to attract businesses and investors into the region.

“ “to collectively engage the Federal Government on the development of key infrastructure in the region, particularly roads, rail development and the decentralisation and rehabilitation of seaports in the region, as well as management of security in the country at large.”

*“ to engage the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to ensure its activities benefit the BRACED states.

*to direct the Commissioners of Environment and Attorneys-General of states to meet on climate issues affecting the states, particularly mangrove swamps.”

The Southsouth governors also called for a closer and more cordial relationship with other zones for the creation of economic corridors. 

They pledged to work with and support one another for the purpose of improving the well-being and welfare of the people of the zone. 

The governors directed the director-general of the BRACED commission to implement the decisions taken and report back to the council before their next meeting in March. 

Ekiti road projects excite lawmaker.

Ekiti road projects excite lawmaker.

Lawmaker representing Oye Constituency II in Ekiti State House of Assembly, Idowu Odebunmi, has praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for road projects.

The lawmaker said the road infrastructure policy would transform the economy, create jobs and boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

He lauded the diligent pace at which the Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki dual carriage way and return of contractor handling Itapa-Omu-Ijelu road were prosecuted.

Odebunmi, who took a tour of the projects, said beside the two roads, the Ring Road between Iworoko-Are-Afao- Igbemo to the Cargo Airport will expose towns in that axis to opportunities.

“The Itapa-Omu-Ijelu road, which falls within my constituency, was awarded before inception of this government, but was abandoned by the contractor. But Oyebanji has directed the contractor back to site. The road leads to agricultural zone and I know farming will be more enhanced in that axis when completed…’’ 

On the proposed 1.2km flyover between Okeyinmi and Ijigbo roundabouts in Ado-Ekiti, Odebunmi said the project would decongest the capital’s Business District of traffic logjam and add aesthetic value.

“This project is not misplaced. I think the benefit outweighs the demerit. That area is Ado Ekiti business centre. We have Erekesan Market, banks, and business centres, which often resulted in regular traffic hold up…”

Tinubu’ll transform judiciary to drive economic growth – AGF.

Tinubu’ll transform judiciary to drive economic growth – AGF.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has assured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu would transform the judiciary to drive economic growth, investment drive, and revenue generation.

He also stated that under the President, the judiciary would render non-kinetic support to the security and defence architecture.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at a retreat organised for officials of the Federal Ministry of Justice and its agencies, Fagbemi challenged the officials to be prepared to break from routine official engagements to provide a platform to achieve their mandates.

Fagbemi said, “The present administration has eight priorities and eight focus areas. The Federal Ministry of Justice, by its mandate speaks to Priority 3 (Economic growth and Job Creation), Priority 5 (Inclusivity; Drawing on all Skills Base); Priority 6 (Security); Priority 7 (Fairness and Rule of Law); and Priority 8 (Anti-Corruption Stance). The Ministry also speaks to the eighth (8th) Focus Area of Government, which is Improved Governance for Effective Service Delivery.

“It is worthy of note that the justice sector is pivotal to the attainment of the objectives of other sectors, as well as attaining the universal role of the law as a veritable enabler for development.

“Particularly, the justice sector is a key catalyst or stimulator for economic growth, investment drive, and revenue generation, among others. Traditionally, the sector renders non-kinetic support to the security/defence architecture of the country.”

He sought the cooperation of the staff of the ministry as well as agencies and parastatals under him, towards achieving the Performance agreement signed between ministers and the president.

Otti appoints Okonjo-Iweala, Sanusi others into economic council.

Otti appoints Okonjo-Iweala, Sanusi others into economic council.

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Thursday, inaugurated the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council as part of his administration’s strategic plan to ensure the overall economic development of the state.

Members of the 19-man team aimed at building Abia into a self-sustaining economic hub, include Ms. Arunma Oteh, Khaleefa Sanusi II and Mr. Bolaji Balogun, as co-chairmen.

Other members are Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, Mr. Uche Orji, Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli, Mr. Chika Nwobi, Dr. Olugbenga Adesida, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Mazi Clement Owunna, Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, Mr. George Agu, and Mazi Uzo Nwankwo, Mr Chinedu Azodoh, while also making the list are Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Dr. Benedict Oramah as Honourary Advisors.

The governor said the five members, drawn from the State Executive Council, will represent the government on the Advisory Council.

They include the Governor; Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ikechukwu Uwanna; Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Kingsley Anosike; Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Michael Akpara; and Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Industry, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu.

Otti said the economy of the state had suffered neglect and became fragile due to untold economic sabotage, over the years, stating that “as a new government, a new dawn is before us.

“As a government, we do not know it all and that is why we are seeking guidance from those who know,” assuring them that the council will work with the state government to see how to impact long-term economic prospects in the state and to turn the state into a robust major player in world economic dawn.”

Otti said, “This day marks the beginning of a new era and we shall never look back.

“Our programmes are already re-positioning and rebuilding Abia State as the economic pride of Nigeria. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that its economic development strategy is founded not only on a thorough understanding of the local economic environment but also on the dynamics of the emerging forces now shaping the future of the global economy.

“The newly appointed members bring a wealth of experience and expertise in various sectors, enhancing the diversity and dynamism of the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council. Their collective knowledge will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that drive innovation, attract investments, form solid partnerships, and ensure the overall economic resilience of our great state”.

The council will be managed by the Principal Secretary to the Governor/Chief Strategy Officer, Mr. Chinenye Mba-Uzoukwu, and the Technical Assistant to the Governor, Mr. Charles Egonye, who will both be supported by Mrs. Victoria Onwubiko and Ms Amaka Okonkwo from the private sector.

The Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council serves as a key advisory body, offering strategic insights and recommendations to guide the state’s economic and investment policies.

The Advisers will collaborate closely with the relevant state commissioners to address the unique challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of innovation and economic development within the region and globally.

In her overview of the council, a co-chair, Oteh said Otti gathered them “not only to give advice but also to hold him accountable on the global business” and expressed her hope that Otti will be open and take the council’s advice.

Another co-chair, Balogun, described Otti as a man of history, stating, “If Abia succeeds, Nigeria succeeds,” while the third co-chair – Khaleefa Sanusi II, advised the governor “to give advice is one thing and to implement is another,” adding that the state has a listening governor in the capacity of Otti and the Chief Marketing officer of the state and a Banker that knows his target, assuring that the council will do its best.

The Pillars of Progress: Tolerance, Unity, and Love in Society Development.

The Pillars of Progress: Tolerance, Unity, and Love in Society Development.

Friday 19th January, 2024.

By Olamide Akinwumi J.

In the tapestry of human civilization, woven through the threads of time, tolerance, unity, and love stand as the foundational pillars that uphold the edifice of societal development. These virtues, when embraced and nurtured, become the bedrock upon which communities flourish, prosper, and endure the tests of time.

●Tolerance: A Bridge to Harmony.

Tolerance, often regarded as the ability to accept differences and diversity, acts as a bridge that connects individuals with varied backgrounds, beliefs, and perspectives. In a world teeming with diverse cultures, religions, and ideologies, fostering tolerance becomes paramount for the coexistence of communities.

Embracing tolerance means acknowledging the richness that diversity brings to the tapestry of society. It is the recognition that differences in race, religion, ethnicity, and opinions do not weaken but strengthen the social fabric. Tolerance breeds understanding, dismantling barriers that hinder progress and paving the way for collaborative efforts.

●Unity: The Collective Strength.

Unity emerges as the collective strength drawn from individuals joining forces for a common purpose. When a society unites, it harnesses the combined potential of its members, creating a force greater than the sum of its parts. This collective strength becomes a catalyst for societal advancement.

A united society channels its energies towards shared goals, be it economic prosperity, social justice, or technological innovation. It is the synergy of diverse talents and perspectives converging towards a common objective that propels societies forward. Unity fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, instilling resilience in the face of challenges.

●Love: The Catalyst for Compassion.

Love, the most profound and transformative of human emotions, acts as a catalyst for compassion and empathy. When love permeates the social fabric, individuals are more inclined to care for the well-being of others. It transcends self-interest, inspiring acts of kindness, generosity, and altruism.

In a society where love prevails, individuals are motivated to contribute to the common good. Love forms the basis for strong interpersonal relationships, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. It is the driving force behind initiatives that address societal issues, promoting social welfare and justice.

●The Interconnected Triad:

Tolerance, unity, and love do not exist in isolation; they are interconnected elements that reinforce each other. Tolerance paves the way for unity by accepting and appreciating diversity, while unity strengthens the bonds that allow love to flourish. This interdependence forms a dynamic equilibrium that sustains societal development.

As societies navigate the complexities of the modern world, the significance of these virtues becomes increasingly evident. Embracing tolerance, fostering unity, and nurturing love are not just moral imperatives; they are pragmatic steps towards building resilient, inclusive, and progressive societies.

In conclusion, the triumvirate of tolerance, unity, and love serves as the bedrock upon which the edifice of societal development stands. As individuals and communities cultivate these virtues, they contribute to the creation of a harmonious and thriving tapestry that defines the essence of human progress.

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

Osun gov sacks three monarchs, orders fresh selection process.

Osun gov sacks three monarchs, orders fresh selection process.

Osun State Government has ordered a fresh selection process to fill the stools of Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo, having nullified the initial processes.

The government also declared the stool of Akinrun of Ikirun, Oba Olalekan Akadiri vacant, calling on all parties to wait to determine a suit on the stool currently pending before the Court of Appeal.

A statement by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, obtained on Thursday, said government decisions on the stools were contained in six White Papers on various committees that investigated issues raised by the executive orders issued by the governor, Ademola Adeleke, at the inception of the administration in November 2022.

Adeleke had reversed the appointments of all royal fathers appointed by his predecessor, Adegboyega Oyetola, at the twilight of his tenure.

Some communities across the state where this happened experienced unrest, leading to the loss of at least one life and the destruction of valuables.

He specifically directed Aree of Iree, Oba Ademola Raphael, Owa of Igbajo, Oba Gboyegba Famoodun and Akinrun of Ikirun, Oba Akadiri, to vacate their palaces and ordered investigations into the processes that produced them as monarchs.

The statement by Alimi partly read, “By the report of the White Paper, all previous steps taken concerning the installation of Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo stands nullified. And that the all-inclusive selection process (es) for a new Aree of Iree and Owa of Igbajo, respectively, should commence immediately.

“Specifically on Aree of Iree Chieftaincy, the substantive chiefs are enjoined to withdraw their suit before the court to allow for the commencement of the selection process in line with due process and tradition.

“And on the stool of Owa of Igbajo, the White Paper nullified the previous selection process which produced Prince Gboyega Famodun and directed an all-inclusive selection process for a new Owa nominee.

“On the disputed Akirun stool, the White Paper directed that the parties await the outcome of the case before the Court of Appeal. And that the stool remains vacant.

“On other disputed kingship stools, the white paper further recommended compliance with the requirements of the law as in the Alawo stool where the government accepted the committee recommendation that the government should await the outcome of the pending suit before the Supreme Court.”

The government also directed the setting up of a task force for the recovery of government vehicles allegedly taken away by the officials of the immediate past administration in the state.