Northern Senators’ Forum lauds Tinubu, ECOWAS leaders for lifting sanctions on Niger, others.

Northern Senators’ Forum lauds Tinubu, ECOWAS leaders for lifting sanctions on Niger, others.

Northern Senators’ Forum (NSF) has commended the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), President Bola Tinubu and other leaders of the subregional body for lifting sanctions it earlier imposed on Niger Republic.

The ECOWAS under Tinubu’s leadership imposed sanctions on Niger to force the junta that seized power in the country to return to democratic rule.

The NSF had pleaded with ECOWAS to lift the sanctions saying it was having a negative effect on States sharing borders with Niger.

The Niger Junta, in the face of the sanctions had expressed its readiness to team up with other juntas in Mail, Burkina Faso and Guinea to exit ECOWAS and forms a Sahel state.

However, on Saturday, the ECOWAS leaders met in Abuja and lifted the sanctions.

Following the development, the NSF in a statement by its spokesman, Senator Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, welcomed the decision of ECOWAS to lift the sanctions.

The statement reads in part: “Today, the Northern Senators Forum expresses its heartfelt appreciation and commendation to the exceptional leaders of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their decisive action in lifting sanctions imposed on Niger Republic as a result of military takeover on 26th July, 2023.

“We are pleased to see that ECOWAS has responded to the progressive requests made by us individually and collectively on the subject matter, and we commend their prudent and compassionate approach in addressing these critical issues.

“The Northern Senators Forum believes that the principled and empathetic decision made by ECOWAS to lift the sanctions on Niger Republic is a testament to the organization’s commitment to regional solidarity, cooperation, and respect for human rights.

“We understand that this action will go a long way in alleviating the suffering of the people of Niger Republic, as well as ensuring the restoration of stability and economic prosperity in our region.

“We are particularly grateful that ECOWAS leaders have considered our pleas to restore electricity, open borders, and lift the sanctions on Niger Republic.

“These measures will not only have crucial humanitarian implications, but will also foster regional integration, trade, and cooperation. We firmly believe that this step taken by ECOWAS will positively impact the lives of the people of Niger Republic and Nigeria and facilitate the restoration of trust and harmony among all member states.

“As representatives of the people and advocates for justice and democracy, we commend ECOWAS for their responsiveness and understanding of the immense challenges faced by our fellow West African nation.

“The Northern Senators Forum stands in solidarity with ECOWAS in restoring democracy and rule of law in Niger Republic and other west African countries, and we are committed to working to promote stability, peace, and socio-economic development throughout the region.

“The Northern Senators Forum urges the government of Niger Republic and its people to seize this opportunity to hasten the process of returning to democratic governance to build a stronger and more prosperous nation, harnessing their resilient spirit and unwavering determination.

“Furthermore, we urge all regional stakeholders to continue engaging in dialogue and pursuing peaceful solutions to address any remaining concern, fostering a harmonious environment for progress and development.

“Finally, the Northern Senators Forum would like to reiterate its deep appreciation to ECOWAS leaders especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria for their proactive and benevolent intervention in lifting the sanctions imposed on Niger Republic.

“We are confident that this decision will leave an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of all West African nations and serve as a shining example for resolving differences through dialogue and diplomacy.”

EFCC to probe over 3,000 financial crimes, recovers N60bn.

EFCC to probe over 3,000 financial crimes, recovers N60bn.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has revealed the commission’s plans to investigate more than 3,000 financial crime cases.

He explained that the 3,000 cases approved for investigation were part of the over 5,000 petitions received by the agency from different groups and Nigerians.

Olukoyede said this at the 20th-anniversary lecture of the Human and Environmental Development Agenda Resources Centre, held in Lagos on Saturday.

The EFCC boss, who was the guest lecturer at the event, said the agency has recovered over N60bn and $10m, in less than four months since he assumed office.

While lamenting the pervasive nature of corruption in Nigeria, he noted that the agency has innovated mechanisms to either stop or minimise the stealing of public funds and other financial and economic crimes.

He stressed that it takes collective responsibility from every Nigerian to move the country forward and end corruption.

Olukoyede, however, reiterated his resolve to use the anti-corruption drive to stimulate the Nigerian economy.

He added, “When we set out to investigate. People see it as a fight between EFCC and the rest of us. It should not be so. How much will the EFCC do?

“How much will ICPC do with its staff strength? I have less than 4,800 staff. I am talking of an agency that is serving people who are over 150 million.

“All we have to do is investigate and present the facts before the court. I will not be the one to give judgement. That is where we have collective responsibility. When you see something, you say something

“The issue is we are working as if we are not working. Upon my assumption of office between then and now, I have received over 5,000 petitions. I am not talking of just the one we received, but the one that we have checked and discovered that there was substance in it. That is just for one agency, EFCC.

“As I am talking to you I have approved the investigation of over 3,000 cases in less than four months, but what is our capacity, how many staff do we have? What resources do I have access to?

“In less than four months, we secured convictions of 700 and recovered over 60 billion naira, over 10 million dollars.

“If I am able to recover over 60 billion naira in less than 100 days, you can imagine how much has been stolen.

“I can tell you that for the billion that has been recovered, trillion has been stolen.”

On his part, the Chairman of HEDA, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, noted that the anti-corruption fight had been challenging.

Suraju urged every Nigerian to contribute a quota from their respective spheres and domains.

He stressed that HEDA cannot do the fight alone but can influence and facilitate the process for agencies like the EFCC, ICPC, Code of Conduct Bureau, and Tribunal to do their jobs more effectively.

“We need an effective policing system with integrity, then the court must not continue to discharge persons with corruption cases still hanging on their necks,” he maintained.

The EFCC had earlier in the year said that adherence to professionalism and commitment to the rule of law by government officials would ensure Nigerians’ contribution to economic growth.

He stressed that an increase in professionalism means zero tolerance for all forms of arbitrariness.

South East Govs working to improve regional economic ~Otti.

South East Govs working to improve regional economic ~Otti.

Abia Governor Alex Otti said South East Governors are working to address collective economic and social challenges confronting the region. 

Otti said the Governors understood it was important for them to set aside their political affiliations, prioritise governance and address pressing issues affecting the region, particularly security. 

The Governor spoke when he met with a delegation of the Joint Body of South East Council of Traditional Rulers and Representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops led by the Obi of Onitsha, His Royal Highness Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, who were in the State on a courtesy call.

He noted that regional security challenges required a united approach by the Govenors to curb, adding he and his colleagues meet regularly to address youth restiveness and how to meaningfully engage the young people through the creation of employment opportunities and other empowerment programmes.

“Anyhow you look at it, we must deal with security as a region if not as a country. What feeds insecurity, to a large extent, is unemployment and poverty. 

“It also feeds banditry and insurrection and we need to do everything possible to ensure that our people have something to do,” Otti stated.

The Abia Governor emphasised the need to create a conducive environment to attract investments and businesses into the region. 

He stressed the importance of government intervention to stimulate economic growth and job creation in the Southeast region and added that Governors must take deliberate decisions to safeguard the economy of their various States.

“We know that investors are rational. If you don’t make your environment conducive to attract investments, they will not come. 

“I know at the minimum 20 to 25 businesses in Abia, before now, that just relocated at some point and closed shop.

“There must be investments that the states would have to make without looking at the profit. Sometimes, they tell you that government has no business in business. It’s a lie. 

“Government has business in business. Government must step in at some point and take deliberate decisions to safeguard the economy by creating jobs.

“Government needs to come in and support the private sector to create jobs, if not for anything at all, to ensure that insecurity is reduced to the barest minimum,” he said. 

Otti enumerated ongoing initiatives in Abia State, aimed at revitalising key economic hubs like Aba and Umuahia to attract investments and spur development, saying that his administration had a clear plan to fix the state.

The Governor, who noted that Aba has the capacity to develop the entire Southeast region when properly harnessed, disclosed that power supply remains the major enabler required to spur development in Aba and the entire Southeast region.

He stated the 141 Megawatt Geometric Power Plant in Aba, set for commissioning on Monday, would provide uninterrupted power supply to Aba and its environs. 

He pointed out that his government had entered into discussions with the investors on how to provide 24 hours power supply to all parts of the State.

The Governor pledged continued engagement with the Joint Body of Southeast Council of Traditional Rulers and Representatives of Igbo Archbishops and Bishops, and assured that he would take into account the concerns raised during the meeting as part of the ongoing efforts to promote unity, development, and prosperity in the Southeast region.

The leader of the delegation, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe said the aim of the body, which came into existence three years ago, is for peace building and reconciliation in Southeast.

Igwe Achebe, who stated that the visit to Governor Otti was the first physical meeting the body was holding, disclosed that the group had engaged with some Governors in the zone virtually but not physically. 

He said that they were committed to projecting peace, mutual respect, love and well-being of Ndi Igbo and commended Governor Otti for his remarkable achievements within the short period he has been in office, describing him as a standard for Igbo leaders.

They called on the Southeast Governors Forum to come together to make the region an economic hub to enable Igbo business communities all over the world bring their investments home.

Other members of the body who were present during the meeting include, the Anglican Archbishop of Owerri Province, Apostle David Onuoha and a biomedical Scientist of the Alex Ekwueme University, Ebonyi state, Mrs. Pauline Iyke- Ogbo.

Greedy politicians fuelling attacks on Tinubu over hardship -Arewa Think Tank.

Greedy politicians fuelling attacks on Tinubu over hardship -Arewa Think Tank.

A Northern group, Arewa Think Tank, has argued greedy politicians are inciting Nigerians against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over economic hardship.

The group said though the economy is biting so hard, it is serious as what happened during the Second Republic, adding that there is hope in the horizon.

Addressing reporters at the weekend, the Chief Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu said there will be light at the end of the tunnel as Tinubu is working round the clock to find lasting solution to the situation.  

According to him: “This issue of hunger in this country has been over dramatised, with due respect to some few genuine Nigerians that really need support, why I am saying this is because, if you look at the history of Nigeria since Independence, there is no regime that hunger, poverty has not been over dramatised in Nigeria.

“A case study is the Second Republic, it was so over dramatised that it got the then Minister of Transportation, late Umar Dikko so angry that he had to ask question; at that time that it was over dramatised by the opposition and some few Nigerians and the press, he now angrily asked that, are Nigerians eating from the dustbins at that time?.

“So I don’t want us to over dramatise this and fall into the traps of those who don’t want the administration of President Bola Tinubu to succeed. That is why I am saying this, we should be cautious because all over the world, there are economic challenges, so we shouldn’t over dramatise our own. 

 

“I am not defending the government, I know that there are real issues, but let’s look at the genuine ones. We shouldn’t allow disgruntled politicians or disgruntled elements in collaboration with foreigners to disstabilise our country.

“And I am even making this case, using the Second Republic as an example, that is, as at the time Umar Dikko of blessed memory made that statement, the Naira was at par with the Dollar. So can you imagine that, the Naira was at par with the Dollar. So let’s see how we can give Tinubu led government some breathing space and some time before we start coming down heavy on the government.

“One of the fastest ways the Arewa Think Tank is suggesting to the federal, State and local governments to ameliorate these challenges and food insecurity in the country at the moment is for these three tiers of government to sit together and ensure that in every local government in Nigeria, N20 million is set aside every month to buy food stuffs and distribute to the most needy.

“If this can be done in the next three to six months it will go in a long way to ameliorate this artificial food scarcity and insecurity which were created by some very greedy politicians, middle men and business men.”

NDDC begins distribution of palliatives in Delta

NDDC begins distribution of palliatives in Delta.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC) has kicked off the distribution of palliatives for victims of the 2022 flood disaster in communities across the 25 local government areas of Delta State.

Speaking during the presentation of the palliatives at the Sapele Athletic Club in Sapele, Delta State, the Representative of Delta State on the NDDC Governing Board, Monday Igbuya, said that although the flood occurred in 2022, the victims were still suffering the aftermath of the disaster.

Igbuya in a statement by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni, noted that the NDDC Governing Board, led by Mr. Chiedu Ebie, found it necessary to implement the decision to distribute previously approved palliative items to communities across the state .

He said the distribution was in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda to cushion the effects of the 2022 flood disaster in the state especially in view of the current economic difficulties in the country.

According to him: “You remember the flood happened in 2022 and as you know President Bola Tinubu was not in office then, so were the NDDC Board and Management. But, when the issue came up, the graciously approved this relief operation”.

Igbuya maintained that the NDDC was committed to programmes that would affect the people positively, emphasizing that the board was engaging in activities that truly reflected the people’s needs and mandate of the board.

The statement said the ruckloads of items distrib­uted included bags of rice, bags of beans, mattresses, vegetable oil, noodles, toiletries, tomato paste, boats, cassava milling machines, sewing and grinding machines, salt, among other relief materi­als.

The community leaders across the 25 local governments of the State, including women and youth groups reportedly received the items on behalf of their people.

Speaking at the event, Onoriode Ogodo of Sapele-Okpe community, thanked the NDDC for the palliatives.

He said: “The items will go a long way in supporting those who lost homes and means of livelihoods during the flood.”

The President-General of Elume community, Mr. Felix Emuobo, said: “With the materials in the right hands, we can rebuild and support our people through these difficult times. I commend the NDDC for their effort towards bringing relief to us.”.

Chief Adebayo Omotoso Embassy Celebrates 90 Years: A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Wisdom.

Chief Adebayo Omotoso Embassy Celebrates 90 Years: A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Wisdom.

By Arc. Sola Omotoso

Today, the air is filled with an aura of celebration as Chief Adebayo Omotoso Embassy, a distinguished elder statesman and patriarch, marks a significant milestone in his life - his 90th birthday. Surrounded by a gathering of family, friends, and well-wishers, Chief Embassy's journey is commemorated with reverence and admiration for the resilience, determination, and unwavering faith that have defined his extraordinary life.

Born into adversity, Chief Embassy's life story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration to many. Despite facing the heartache of losing his parents at a tender age, he displayed remarkable resilience and determination that would shape the trajectory of his life. His unwavering commitment to excellence propelled him to achieve remarkable success in various spheres of life, setting an exemplary standard for generations to come.

As a father, Chief Embassy has been a pillar of strength, guidance, and unwavering support to his children. He instilled in them values of hard work, integrity, and compassion, laying the foundation for a legacy of unity and resilience that continues to inspire all who have had the privilege of crossing paths with him.

In his role as a politician, Chief Embassy led with exemplary integrity and wisdom, ensuring peace and progress in his community even in the face of adversity. His dedication to serving God and humanity through the church reflects a heart filled with love and compassion for others, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of many.

Today, as Chief Embassy celebrates his 90th birthday, the occasion is marked by joy, laughter, and the warm embrace of loved ones. It is a time for reflection on the countless blessings and memories he has bestowed upon his community and beyond. His remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith in overcoming life's challenges.

As Chief Embassy embarks on the next chapter of his journey, he is wished continued health, happiness, and countless blessings. May God's grace and favor continue to shine upon him, guiding his steps and filling his days with peace and fulfillment.

Happy 90th Birthday, Chief Adebayo Omotoso Embassy! Here's to many more years of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

©️Powered By Arc. Sola Omotoso.

EKSG Supports Indigent Students With N30 Million, Renovates Schools With N641 Million.

EKSG Supports Indigent Students With N30 Million, Renovates Schools With N641 Million. 

....First Lady Urges Students to Justify Investment.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged students of public secondary schools to justify the huge investment of the state government in them by working hard to attain academic excellence.

Dr. Oyebanji gave the advice on Friday while performing the official flag-off of the disbursement of financial support to indigent students and the disbursement of funds for the second phase of the mass renovation of public secondary schools in the state.

Addressing the students many of whom attended the flag-off ceremony held at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti, the Governor's wife said the gesture was one of the many strategies of the State Government to retain school-age children in school and also ensure that no child is out of school. 

Under the scheme supported by the World Bank-assisted Adolescent Girls’ Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), about N30 million was disbursed to 2,808 indigent students with those in senior secondary school receiving N25,000 while beneficiaries in junior secondary school getting N20,000.

Also, seven public secondary schools received cheques totalling N641 million to renovate facilities like administrative blocks, laboratory facilities, hostels, classrooms, libraries, sporting facilities, among others for the comfort of students, teachers and other staff.

The benefitting schools are Doherty Memorial Grammar School, Ijero Ekiti; Ayede Grammar School, Ayede Ekiti; Egbeoba High School, Ikole Ekiti; Eyemote Comprehensive High School, Iyin Ekiti; Ilejemeje Community High School, Iye Ekiti; Ise Comprehensive High School, Ise Ekiti and Ileowuro High School, Agbado Ekiti.

Congratulating the students who have met the eligibility criteria for this first cohort of financial support for the 2023/2024 academic session, Dr. Oyebanji encouraged them to seize the opportunity to strive for excellence with the understanding that "education is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about developing the skills and resilience needed."

The accounts of the 2,808 beneficiaries, the first cohort, were credited and they received their ATM cards to access the support funds. They ar expected to receive the fund in three tranches. The condition for its continuity is retention in school.  

The First Lady explained that the gesture reaffirmed the Oyebanji Administration's commitment to the provision of access to quality education for all school-age children and to further strengthen the free and compulsory education programme for primary and secondary school students in the state. 

She said: "The government is committed to regular payment of salaries to our teachers, renovation of old school buildings, release of running grants to each school, payment of WAEC/SSCE fees, provision of ICT facilities and capacity building of our teachers. 

"In addition, the State Government also takes care of vulnerable students to ensure they attend classes and complete their education. Identified vulnerable students are taken away from hostile environments and lodged in boarding facilities to enable them access good quality education without hindrance.

"It is one of the many strategies of the State Government to retain school-age children in school and also ensure that no child is out of school. Ekiti state prides itself as the State with the second lowest data on out-of-school children and we intend to bring the data as close to zero as possible."

Dr. Oyebanji recalled that N916 million was disbursed to ten schools last year for renovation in ten local government areas expressing delight that the exercise has reached completion stage in the benefitting schools.

Representatives of the State Executive Council, Council of Traditional Rulers, State Universal Basic Education Board, Elders' Forum, Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools, Alumni Associations, Youth Parliament and Children's Parliament delivered goodwill messages and hailed the state government's giant strides in education sector.