Human trafficking affecting education – Obaseki

Human trafficking affecting education – Obaseki

The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has said the high level of irregular migration and human trafficking in the country are the causes of inconsistency in the education system.

A statement by the governor on Sunday said his government was changing the narrative and had, over the past seven years, focused on reforming and strengthening the state’s education system using the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation.

He added that the success recorded by his administration in the fight against human trafficking and illegal migration in the state was linked to reforms in the education sector as well as programmes and projects to equip and build the capacity of Edo youths to become globally competitive.

The governor said, “Re-enacting basic education in the state has thrown up several issues and shows us the dislocation in our educational policies and how it’s affecting the whole chain. The breakdown of our basic education is one of the root causes of irregular migration and has led to human trafficking in the state

“We embarked on EdoBEST to change the narrative. We decided to set up an education fund to encourage more students to go to school. We also focused on teachers to improve the learning standards. Five years on, we can now see a reversal and rapid improvement in learning outcomes.”

Insecurity, hardship for a short period – Tinubu.

Insecurity, hardship for a short period – Tinubu.

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the country without ceasing, adding that the insecurity situation and hardship being experienced is for a short period of time.

Tinubu said this on Sunday, February 18, at the opening Session of the 2024 First Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria Resource Centre, Durumi, Abuja.

He told the bishops that the country is relying on their unwavering encouragement of the Nigerian populace.

The president said the Church’s engagement with Nigerians on matters of faith enriches the government’s responsiveness and strengthens the national fabric.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Goerge Akume said: “The season of Lent is an apt time to host this critical meeting as it is a period of profound reflection, prayer, fasting, and charitable giving which coincides with a challenging period of economic hardship in our nation which we are working to reverse as mentioned above While bold economic reforms have been undertaken by this administration, resulting in short-term hardships, they are borne out of a deep-seated commitment to Nigeria’s long- term prosperity and stability.

“This administration inherited a daunting economic landscape, necessitating decisive action to alter our nation’s downward trajectory. With unwavering dedication, we are striving towards a prosperous, healthy, and globally competitive Nigeria. Given the critical situation, now more than ever before we must remain steadfast, renewing our faith in God’s provision and protection.

“Amidst adversity, we must remain resolute, renewing our faith in God’s providence and walking in love as we support one another. This administration is steadfast in its resolve to enhance security, bolster the economy, and create opportunities for all Nigerians. We acknowledge the various hardships affecting nations across the world precipitated and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the escalating cost of living crisis. However, we draw strength from our collective hope and diligent efforts of government-private sector, religious organizations and others, trusting that through God’s grace, better days lie ahead

“As spiritual leaders, My Lord Bishops, we rely on your unwavering encouragement to the Nigerian populace your commitment to upholding integrity, offering sound counsel, and fostering constructive dialogue is deeply appreciated by the government. The Church’s engagement with Nigerians on matters of faith enriches our responsiveness and strengthens our national fabric.

“Both church and government are aligned in our shared commitment of a brighter future for all Nigerians. Through strategic policies, well-thought-out initiatives, and investments, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration aims to drive economic transformation, ensure security, enhance food production, harness natural resources, develop critical infrastructure, improve social services, foster economic diversification, and enhance governance efficiency. These efforts are geared towards building a prosperous, secure, and inclusive Nigeria for all.

“Although the economic hardship and security challenges may seem daunting, let us continue to encourage one another in the Lord and pray without ceasing. Likewise, let us remember Galatians 6:9 which reminds us “not to become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

President of the CBCN Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji said the reform agenda of the present administration has added to the plight of the citizens.

He said with the end of the fuel subsidy regime and the unification of the foreign exchange market, there has been a significant increase in the pump price of petroleum products and a steep decline in the value of the naira.

The Bishop said high-spiraling inflation has made it difficult for the average Nigerian to access basic commodities, including food items and medication

He said: “The reform agenda of the present government has added to the plight of Nigerians. With the withdrawal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market, there has been a sharp increase in the pump price of petroleum products and a steep decline in the value of the naira. Indeed, there is a free fall in the national currency.

“As a result of the government’s reform agenda, millions of Nigerians have been reduced to a life of grinding poverty, wanton suffering, and untold hardship as never before in our national history.

“In a bid to survive, an increasing number of the poor have resorted to begging. With more than 80 million Nigerians living below the poverty line of less than two dollars a day, our country, according to the recent disclosure of the World Bank, is the world’s second-largest poor population after India.

“While many impoverished Nigerians continue to suffer and die as a result of the hardship caused by the government’s economic reforms, the president has continued to urge the populace to make even more and more sacrifices with the assurance that brighter days lay ahead.”

The CBCN president said as the government demands additional sacrifice from the struggling masses, Nigerians are expecting to see a drastic cut in the cost of running the government at all levels.

He said: “On the contrary, it is worrisome to watch top government functionaries live by the sweat, toil, and tears of the poor. They continue to spend huge public funds on ostentatious and luxurious lifestyles and seem incapable of feeling compassion for the outcry of the poor.

“It is no less worrisome to note that corruption among many public servants has gone beyond scale and measure. Corruption is a complex reality involving moral rottenness, defilement, and loss of integrity.”

On insecurity, the bishop said that despite the huge sums of money appropriated monthly as security votes, communities have continued to experience persistent insecurity.

He said recently that there has been an upsurge in kidnapping for ransom and increasing incidents of senseless bloodshed across the nation.

The CAN President said: “Unarmed citizens are brutally slaughtered on our highways, in their homes, and even in the sacred precincts of places of worship. Killer herdsmen, bandits, and unknown gunmen seem to be on the rampage.

“Many communities across the nation have been taken over completely by criminals. Families have lost their ancestral lands to armed invaders and land-grabbers. The social and economic lives of communities have been paralyzed due to insecurity.

“Schools have been shut down, and children can no longer continue their education. Farmers are unable to access their farms out of fear of either losing their lives or being kidnapped,” he noted.

The President of Christian Association Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said in his remarks that the theme of the Plenary, ‘Synod on Synodality: Areas of Concern for the Church in Nigeria’, is quite unique and interesting for those who follow the conversations in the Catholic Church for the purpose of learning and growth.

He said that, as leaders of the church, they acknowledge the multifaceted challenges faced by churches on a daily basis.

“From a deliberate attempt to edge out Christianity in certain parts of the country through denial of Right of Occupancy for churches that want to erect their worship places to targeted serial attacks, arson and kidnapping of clergymen for ransom that have now become a daily occurrence

“The high level of insecurity, runaway inflation, and hunger are areas of serious concern as well. I am confident that the state of our nation will be exhaustively discussed with sincerity and humility at the plenary as usual.

“It is my hope that you will be guided by the Holy Spirit to come up with ideas that will truly make a positive difference in our nation and that God will make those in governance listen to the prophetic voice of the church.”

Also the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, blamed the high inflation rate in the country on so much liquidity in the market.

He argued that, in spite of all the difficulties, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and the effort by the federal government to remove the subsidy on fuel will contribute towards a more positive outcome.

Cardoso noted that, as a result of some of the recent reports from the CBN, over the course of the last week, about $1.8 billion came into the markets, adding that as long as the country can sustain a positive trajectory, Nigeria will get out of its economic woes and the foreign exchange market will begin to moderate itself.

The CBN governor observed that in another week, the CBN will have the Monetary Policy Committee meeting, where very critical decisions will be made to continue making the economy more investor-friendly.

Cardoso pointed out that an attempt to merge the outside rates with the official rates and the black-market rate has been made, adding that the difference between the two is now significantly lower.

He stated that there is a positive outlook on that, adding that the positive outlook comes from the fact that a series of reforms have been made by the federal government and the central bank, which are now paying off in such a way that international investors are coming back in again.

Also present at the plenary were the former governor of Anambra State and Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in last year’s presidential election, Peter Obi and the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma.

Arrest of Omotoso's abductors: Ekiti APC jubilates, gives kudos to police.

Arrest of Omotoso's abductors: Ekiti APC jubilates, gives kudos to police.

Members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti State, are currently in a joyous mood in response to the news of the arrest of the kidnappers who abducted their Chairman sometimes last year, while commending the police operatives for a job well done. 

According to a release issued by its spokesman, Segun Dipe, the party faithfuls who had never stopped praying that those who committed the heinous crime should know no peace until they are caught, are very much elated that the security operatives swooped on their hideouts and made commendable arrests.

The Ekiti State Police Command had over the weekend paraded eight of the suspected kidnappers, including two vigilante officers, allegedly involved in various kidnapping cases in the state including the abduction of Pupils of Apostolic Faith Groups of School, Emure on 29th January 2024. 

The arrested syndicate was particularly fingered as responsible for the kidnap of the APC State Chairman, Barrister Paul Omotoso along Agbado/Imesi Ekiti road on the 8th of July 2023 almond others. 

At aThanksgiving service in appreciation of his safe return from the den of the kidnappers where he was kept for five gruesome days, Barrister Omotoso along with those who came to rejoice with him had prayed in one accord that the kidnappers should not get away with their act and must be nabbed soonest

"What baffles us most is the fact that the syndicate failed to desist from their nefarious activities and still wanted to kidnap some more, resulting in their nabbing." 

"It is a bitter-sweet feeling for us. Bitter that these men of evil could make our communities their spots, yet sweet that they could not get far before the hands of the law caught up with them. Our prayers are answered and we owe our indefatigable governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who had vowed to make insecurity such as kidnapping a thing of the past, tons of appreciation. He is seriously walking his talk." 

We also appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving us his listening ears and helping hands when we needed them most. The President did not discount our cry of distress, he gave us the maximum support and the result is what we are seeing now."

We know that it is not yet uhuru, but just the beginning of the end for those men of the underworld. Those remaining among them have murdered sleep and will not escape justice. The task of cleaning our communities of the miscreants is that of everyone and our party is calling on all dwellers to be on the alert and report every strange movement to the security operatives. 

As for those already caught, we know that justice will not only be done but will be seen as well done. 

Senate tasks CIBN on contribution to GDP.

Senate tasks CIBN on contribution to GDP.

The Senate through its Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions, has challenged the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) to make substantial contribution to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The Chairman of the Committee, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru (APC – Lagos East), made the assertion when he received the Executives of the CIBN led by its President/ Chairman of Council, Dr. Ken Opara, at the Senate on Thursday. 

Abiru, according to a statement by his media office in Abuja, alsolauded the move by the Central Bank of Nigeria to recapitalize the Nigerian banks. 

The committee chair who is also a retired bank Chief Executive and accomplished economist/accountant, argued that with an increased capital base, the banks will not only be able to finance large-ticket projects and invest in Information Technology with a view to modernizing their operations, but will also be positioned to compete in the global scene.

He assured the CIBN Executive of the co-operation of the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, in ensuring that rules and best standard practices are adhered to in the nation’s banking sector.

Abiru said: “As the umbrella professional body for bankers in Nigeria, we consider you partners in progress in the task of repositioning the country’s financial sector and achieving the eight-point agenda of the present administration which revolves around the welfare of the people”.

Senator Abiru further noted that the courtesy visit was timely in view of the current economic challenges facing the nation. 

He said: “I wish to note that this visit by your Institute (as a matter of fact, our Institute since I am also a Fellow of the Institute) is very timely, coming at a time the National Assembly is debating amendments to the CBN Act as well as other related issues to help the government and the CBN navigate the current economic challenges posed by rising inflation and persistent naira depreciation.”

While commending the CIBN for upholding professional excellence in the banking and financial services sector in the last 60 years, Senator Abiru challenged the body and other stakeholders to address the contribution of the banking sector to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is less than five per cent, despite growth and increase in share prices of the financial services sector.

On his part, the The CIBN President/Chairman of Council , Dr. Ken Opara, sought the support of the Senate for the consideration and passage of the CIBN Act (amendment) Bill. 

According to him, the amendment became imperative in the light of current realities in banking and finance landscape vis-a-vis the emerging innovations in the sector.  

The President of the CIBN added that if the CIBN Act is amended, everyone working in the banking sector will be held accountable for misconduct or financial crimes.

According to him, “In the current amendment, we want to capture everyone working in the banking industry in Nigeria for the purpose of upholding ethics and professionalism.The CBN, NDIC and banks are to send reports of allegations of misconduct to the Institute.”

Opara also revealed the plans of the institute to expand its name and coverage. 

“The expansion of the Institute’s name to include ‘Finance’ to conform to the Institute’s coverage and best practice: “Chartered Institute of Banking and Financial Services,” – Section 1 to cover institutions under the regulation of CBN, especially non-conventional banks.

Opara also commended the dynamic leadership of Senator Abiru as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions. 

He specifically hailed the informed questions and economic issues he raised during the engagement session with the CBN Governor, Dr. Olayemi Cardoso.

”The engagements you had and the issues you raised such as Inflation, FX, IMTO and the clarification on the 43 banned items are all issues of interest to the banking public. 

“We also commend you on the proactive steps taken by this Committee to comprehensively review the extant laws within the financial services sector, aimed at fostering economic sustainability and growth,” Opara said.

EFCC chief cautions NURTW, RTEAN members against illegal mining.

EFCC chief cautions NURTW, RTEAN members against illegal mining.

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has cautioned transporters under the aegis of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) against being used as accomplices by illegal miners across the country.

The anti-graft chief gave the warning in Ilorin, Kwara state at a meeting with the executive members of the two transport unions.

The Ilorin zonal command of the anti-graft agency had earlier in the month of February paraded 41 suspected miners and impounded 12 trucks, conveying various solid minerals at different locations comprising Share, Banni, Lade, Patigi and Okolowo in Kwara, and Igbeti and Ogbomosho in Oyo state. 

Speaking through the Ilorin zonal commander, Mchael Nzekwe, Olukoyede, noted that the meeting became necessary in order to sensitise members of the unions against fouling the law as some truck owners and drivers have been found to be providing transport services to illegal miners.

He said: “The purpose of this meeting is to educate and enlighten you that it is an offence to mine minerals without license, just as it is an offence to possess or convey minerals without permit. You are therefore enjoined to warn your members not to allow themselves or release their trucks to be used for carrying out illegal activities.”

The EFCC boss reminded leaders of the transport unions that illegal mining was an economic sabotage punishable with life imprisonment under Section 1(8) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17, 1983, enjoining members of the transport unions to always demand for the mining license of any miner seeking their services to avoid being complicit in illegitimate mining.

He advised members of the two unions to deny entry into their parks, any truck loaded with solid minerals without the right authorization papers and to report such trucks to the EFCC, warning that the Commission would do all within its powers to bring perpetrators of illegal mining to justice.

In their response, Alhaji Abdulrasaki Ariwoola, Chairman, Kwara State NURTW and Alhaji Abdulrahman Onikijipa, Chairman, Kwara State RTEAN, who were represented by their respective secretaries appreciated the EFCC for the sensitisation and pledged their members’ support to the Commission’s efforts in checking the criminal activities of illegal miners in the state.

Reps seek collaboration with Nigeria Navy to fight oil theft.

Reps seek collaboration with Nigeria Navy to fight oil theft.

The House of Representatives Special Adhoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft and Losses and the Nigeria Navy are set to collaborate on strategies for effectively policing pipelines and other critical assets in the oil and gas industry, aiming to combat the menace of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

During a visit to the Chief of Naval Staff, Chairman of the Committee, Alhassan Ado Doguwa, appealed to the Nigerian Navy to provide relevant information to assist in uncovering those responsible for the ongoing theft of the country’s crude oil.

Doguwa assured that information obtained confidentially by the committee will be handled with utmost care.

Doguwa said: “crude oil theft is a major concern to the economy of our country, Nigeria, and on that note we feel we have to extend hands of fellowship to the relevant security stakeholders that have long been existing on the space to fight against these criminalities.

“You can all recall that the recent projection for the year 2024, the parliament budgeted about 28.77 trillion naira based on crude oil bench mark of $77.96 per barrel and the production of 1.78 million barrels per day.

“In January 2024, Nigeria oil production rose to about 1.42 million barrels per day, this represents an increase of about 6.85 percent compared to the  the production figure of 1.39 million barrels per day in December 2023.

“Though there seemed to be a gradual improvement of oil production, but we are still bellow the OPEC quota of 1.58 million barrels per day in the 2024 budget benchmark. The major reason the country is not meeting her production targets is largely attributed to crude oil theft.

“This theft is being carried out in collusion, that not only threaten the economy of the country but have even precipitated crisis bothering on national security.

“You may recall that in 2022 NEITI report, which is the key parameter for our economic projections, the agency stated that about 619.7 million barrels of crude oil, valued at over $46.16 billion was stolen within the period of 12 years.

“In order to address these criminalities, the house instituted this special committee, and charged it with the responsibility of  investigating all dimensions of oil theft and with a view to bringing all culprits to book”.

Doguwa said the committee has since commenced legislative work , engaging strategic stakeholders, and will soon begin public investigative hearings on “identified malpractices.”

He disclosed that the committee has visited the site of two vessels arrested in Delta State, for involvement in crude oil theft saying “these occurrences calls for an overhaul of the security architecture around the oil and gas infrastructure and the nation’s marine environment. We need to strengthen collaboration among the security agencies and also the private security that we have on ground”.

In his Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala said oil theft is major challenge to the country’s economy, stressing the recent report by NNPC Limited of the rise of crude oil production to about 1.78 million bpd.

He said it was the highest in last three years, as still being below Nigeria’s OPEC quota, giving assurance that the Navy will work in collaboration with others to ensure the quota is met.

The Naval Chief  lamented the shortage of personnel in the face of the vastness of the country’s waterways which he said was over 1/10th of Nigeria land space, saying the Navy has less than 30,000 personnel, to man the vast sea space with operational guideline of policing, enforcing and assisting in coordinating enforcement.

 Ogala said the Navy has adopted a framework for a total maritime safety strategy, but that “there must be adequate collaboration with other agencies, and working with communities,  international organizations and others.”

He said the Nigerian Navy has been doing a lot in tackling crude oil theft, but it does not say much about that in the media, as according to him, 34 vessels have been arrested between July 2023 to date, and have been subjected to requisite investigation, with some already facing prosecution by the concerned agencies, including the police and the EFCC.

“We have a big task to ensure that we meet the oil production target in the budget. You also stated that there has been a gradual increase in our crude oil production, that is a fact.

“When we came on board last year, it was may be 1.1 million bpd, and like you stated, we now have 1.4 million bpd, which is still below our OPEC quota…all these improvements are not yet enough because we have not met the quota, but we the capacity to meet the quota.”

He also blamed some major oil companies of failing to seal disused oil well heads as the standard is globally, after leaving such wells when considered no longer commercially viable, saying those operating illegal refineries take advantage of the oil well heads to scoop.

Ban on styrofoam effective Monday – Lagos.

 Ban on styrofoam effective Monday – Lagos.

The Lagos State Government has said full enforcement of the ban on the usage and distribution of styrofoam food containers all over the state would commence today (Monday).

On January 21, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, via his X handle, announced an immediate ban on the use of single-use plastics including styrofoam due to their non-biodegradable nature.

However, in another post on his X account on January 25, the commissioner said the state would “delay the commencement of enforcement of the ban by three weeks after which the government will go on full enforcement of the law.”

Wahab, during a meeting held with all market leaders on Friday, announced the commencement of the ban, according to a statement signed by the ministry’s Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, on Saturday.

He said, “The enforcement of the ban on usage and distribution of Styrofoam food containers all over the state will commence on Monday. Enforcement officers from LAGESC/KAI, environmental health officials, LAWMA police, and the ministry will go after all those having Styrofoams in their shops, stores, or outlets and confiscate them.

“Styrofoam usage has caused enough damage to the health of the residents and the state of the environment for so many years and the government is determined to encourage viable options for Styrofoam containers across the metropolis.”

In his remarks, the Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, urged market leaders to ensure cleanliness in their respective marketplaces, adding that selling on the roads should be discouraged by all.

In her response, the Iyaloja General, Mrs Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, who was represented by the Iya-Oja, Lagos Island, Mrs Risikat Lasisi, noted that they would ensure that market sanitation “continues as a daily task that all market leaders will adopt”.