Olawande commends the launch of OSNI.

Olawande commends the launch of OSNI.

....Describes it as a significant boost to the NIYA initiative of the Youth.

The Minister of State for Youth Development,  Mr. Ayodele Olawande has commended the launch of the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OSNI) by Vice President Kashim Shettima, adding that it  would offer a great boost to the ongoing efforts to curb youth unemployment in the country through the soon-to-be launched Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA).

Olawande, who gave the commendation today in Abuja, said the Nigerian Youth Academy, initiated by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, is aimed at training youths in market driven skills that will empower them to contribute significantly to the economic development of the country 

Performing the launch in Gombe on Monday, the Vice President noted that the OTNI is a strategic initiative to redirect the talents and skills that abound in the country and to deliver millions of job opportunities. 

"Today,  we are not just presenting to you the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) with the honourable aim of taking over the world; we present to you a lens to see the needs of the world, a bridge to interact with the world,  and a vehicle to reach the world from the comfort of your offices and homes in Nigeria," the Vice President had said.

Speaking further on the launch which he described as "another huge step in the fight against youth unemployment," the Minister said the OTNI would now offer a more extensive platform for the utilization of the skills and talents that the NIYA would spring.

According to him, "What we are planning to do with the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYa) is to provide free training in all high-demand skill areas, and to also make the platform a meeting point for all the youths we train and employers who wish  to engage their services. OTNI has just expanded the opportunities we hope to deliver with NiYA."

Olawande, who said  many youths in Nigeria  would soon have no excuse to remain idle, emphasized that OTNI's digital platform, WorkNation, with the objective of helping partners find, train and deploy talents, would greatly expand the reach and impact of NIYA. 

"Collaboration is key in government business. So, I'm already envisaging a collaboration in which WorkNation serves as a sort of off taker for some of the youths we train in NiYA, thereby providing more extensive job openings beyond the academy," the Minister maintained.

Ondo 2024: Akeredolu’s wife Betty Anyanwu Criticizes In-Law for Supporting Aiyedatiwa.

Ondo 2024: Akeredolu’s wife Betty Anyanwu Criticizes In-Law for Supporting Aiyedatiwa.

Former First Lady of Ondo State, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has stirred controversy on social media by publicly criticizing one of her in-laws, Funke Akeredolu Aruna, for openly expressing support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ahead of the party primary elections.

Funke Akeredolu Aruna, who previously served as Deputy Chief Protocol to the late former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has been accused of leaking sensitive information about Akeredolu's health. In response to Funke's support for Governor Aiyedatiwa, Betty Akeredolu-Akanbi took to her Instagram page to denounce her in-law's actions, referring to her as "shameless."

In a post shared on her Instagram page, Betty Akeredolu-Akanbi posted a picture of Funke wearing a cap with the inscription "I am lucky." Alongside the image, she wrote, "Behold the face of Aketi’s niece, Funke Akeredolu Aruna, the former deputy chief protocol to Aketi, shamelessly parades as ‘I am lucky’ Bloody serpent! Time will tell if she is truly lucky!"

The public confrontation between Betty Akeredolu-Akanbi and Funke Akeredolu Aruna has sparked debate and raised questions about the internal dynamics within the Akeredolu family and their political affiliations. It highlights the intense competition and rifts emerging within the ruling party in Ondo State ahead of the upcoming primary elections.

The statement made by Betty Akeredolu-Akanbi underscores the deep-seated tensions and divisions within the political landscape of Ondo State. As the primary elections draw nearer, the public display of discord within the Akeredolu family could potentially have repercussions on the outcome of the elections and the overall political climate in the state.

Observers are closely monitoring the situation, awaiting further developments and reactions from the parties involved. The rift between Betty Akeredolu-Akanbi and Funke Akeredolu Aruna serves as a reminder of the complexities and intrigues inherent in the political arena, even within familial circles.

Nigeria on journey to self-discovery, says Shettima.

Nigeria on journey to self-discovery, says Shettima.                                                                     ......VP launches OTNI for private-public sector synergy, job creation.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria cannot take over the world without understanding the right road to the future.

The Vice President spoke at the inauguration of 2,000 jobs to vibrant and talented youths yesterday in Gombe State under the Outsource Nigeria Initiative (OTNI).

The Vice President said for too long, the country had underestimated its potential that could unlock her future.

He described OTNI as a catalyst for change in business processes and technology-enabled outsourcing sector said to be the fastest route to job security for the teeming youths in the state and other parts of the country.

“Today, we embark on a journey of self-discovery. It’s a paradox for any country to possess the advantages we have and still rank in the middle or at the bottom of the economic chain.

“This is why we are here to provide a gateway to the world and remind ourselves that we are an epicentre of knowledge, an incubator of innovation, and a nurturer of brilliance. We can’t take over the world if we don’t know the road to the future. And so, we are honoured to join you in this quest.

“For too long, we have overlooked the treasure within our demographic dividends. For too long, we have underestimated our role in the knowledge economy. Far beyond the magnitude of our population and the global utility of our proficiency in English lies a profound characteristic — the Nigerian spirit.

“From the bustling cityscape of Aberdeen to the vibrant landscapes of Melbourne and the financial hubs of Zurich, this Nigerian spirit of excellence thrives. It is, therefore, time to recognise our potential and embrace this unique identity as we set out to explore the markets eager for our unique contributions.

“Today, we are not only presenting to you the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) with the honourable aim of taking over the world. We present to you a lens to see the needs of the world, a bridge to interact with the world, and a vehicle to reach the world from the comfort of your offices and homes in Nigeria.

“Outsourcing, as an economic strategy, is not just about efficiency; it’s a profound recognition of our interconnectedness in the global economy. Outsourcing is also a strategy to counteract brain drain and channel our talents and skills into reconstructing a Nigeria that works,” he said.

Praising President Bola Tinubu for his foresight, Shettima said: “In President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have a leader whose vision transcends the immediate horizon. He is a refined economic strategist who understands the balance between our present circumstances and the trajectory of the global landscape.

“Our routes to the future hinge upon our sensitivity to our realities. The tough decisions we have taken may pose short-term challenges, but rest assured, they are strategic investments to fortify the foundations of our economy.

“As your guarantee, I affirm that the reforms in progress will not only weather the storms but usher in a future where we shall stand grateful for the resilience and foresight displayed in propelling our nation towards economic prosperity.”

Shettima explained that the OTNI, which is the global business process for outsourcing industry, is a towering monument valued at over $250 billion.

Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya said the initiative would unlock the business potential of the state and position it as a beacon of opportunity and innovation.

Other dignitaries at the event included Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi; deputy governors of Borno and Gombe states; the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; the Emirs of Gombe and Biu, as well as the Secretary to Gombe State Government (SSG), Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi.

Kanu’s N1bn suit against DSS gets March 18 date.

Kanu’s N1bn suit against DSS gets March 18 date.

The Federal High Court in Abuja yesterday adjourned a fresh N1 billion suit filed by Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), against the Federal Government until March 18 for a hearing.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) had, on January 8, reported that Justice James Omotosho fixed the hearing for yesterday.

Counsel to the defence, I.I. Hassan, told the court that they were yet to be served with the processes.

But Kanu’s lawyer, Alloy Ejimakor, said everything needed for the service had been perfected.

He wondered why the originating motion and other applications were yet to be served on the defence by the bailiff.

Justice Omotosho adjourned until March 18 for the plaintiff to serve the defence in the suit.

NAN reports that Kanu, through his lawyer, Ejimakor, had filed the latest suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1633/2023 for the enforcement of his fundamental rights.

He sued the Federal Republic of Nigeria (FRN), the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Department of State Service (DSS) and its Director-General.

The detained IPOB leader sought “a declaration that the respondents’ act of forcible seizure and photocopying of confidential legal documents pertaining to facilitating the preparation of his defence which were brought to him at the respondents’ detention facility by his lawyers, amounted to denial of his rights to be defended by legal practitioners of his own choice”.

He also sought “a declaration that the respondents’ act of refusing or preventing his counsel from taking notes of details of counsel’s professional discussions/consultations with him at DSS detention, with said discussions/consultations relating to preparation of his defence amounted to denial of his right to be given adequate facilities for the preparation of his defence by legal practitioners of his own choice”.

Kanu sought an order compelling the respondents to issue an official letter of apology to him for the infringement of his fundamental right to a fair hearing.

He is also seeking an order mandating the respondents to jointly and severally pay the sum of N1 billion as damages for the mental, emotional, psychological and other damages he suffered as a result of the breach of his rights.

CBN slashes FX duty rates by 5.3%.

CBN slashes FX duty rates by 5.3%.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced a further decrease in the exchange rate used to calculate import duties.

Information about the decrease was posted on the official trade portal of the Nigeria Customs Service. 

The reduction comes after a period of relative stability in the exchange rate between the Naira and the United States dollar.

As of yesterday, the rate for calculating customs duties was N1,544.081 per dollar. This represents a 5.3 percent decrease compared to the previous rate of N1,630.159 to a dollar used on Friday.

In simpler terms, importers will now pay N86.08 less per dollar when clearing their goods through the ports.

This change reflects the CBN’s ongoing efforts to ensure that import duties accurately reflect the prevailing exchange rate.

By adjusting the rate downward, the CBN aims to ease the pressure on companies importing goods. The expectation is that this will lead to a more predictable and stable environment for international trade.

On February 23, 2024, the CBN issued a circular in response to concerns from importers regarding fluctuating import duty.

Key points of the CBN circular include acknowledging market volatility and price distortions due to the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market, addressing importers’ concerns about uncertainties caused by fluctuating exchange rates affecting duty calculations, and advising the NCS to use the closing FX rate on the date of opening Form M for imports as the fixed rate for duty assessment.

This fixed rate will remain valid until the completion of import and clearance of goods.

The measures, along with the reduced customs duty rate and clarified import duty assessment process, aim to bring stability and transparency to the import environment.

This is expected to benefit businesses, consumers, and the overall Nigerian economy.

Importers and businesses involved in international trade were advised to keep themselves updated with the latest information from the apex bank to accurately calculate duties and avoid delays or issues when clearing their goods.

Tinubu seeks global partners’ support in Africa’s battle against arms proliferation.

Tinubu seeks global partners’ support in Africa’s battle against arms proliferation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday tasked global partners to stand with Africa in its fight against growing and socio-political crisis springing up on the continent.

He gave the task at the opening of a summit on African Regional Dialogue of the Future titled: “The Africa we want and the UN we need” in Abuja.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, the President expressed concern over the rising threat of terrorism, insurgency and military intrusions in governance across Africa, particularly in West Africa,

He, however, pressed the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) to devise innovative strategies to halt the flow of arms and light weapons into the continent.

Tinubu said: “As part of our collective response to these challenges which have grave global implications, may I urge the participants to find innovative and cost-effective strategies by which the African Union would collaborate with the United Nations and the international community to stem the tide of the proliferation of arms and light weapons into Africa, end terrorism and resurgent insurgency and to check the retrogressive return of the military in governance in Africa.”

The president commended the efforts of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development and the Stimson Centre for organising the high-level Regional Dialogue, highlighting the global call for reform and democratisation of the UN System.

“The wide support by many reputable international Civil Society Organisations and research institutions…speaks the minds of honest and progressive global citizens,” he noted, emphasising the collective desire to improve global governance through multilateralism”, Tinubu said.

The president also acknowledged the severe socio-economic, environmental, and political challenges facing many African countries, making it difficult for them to achieve their development goals.

He agreed that African perspectives and innovative priorities need to be included in policy debates to enhance the performance of global institutions in addressing sustainable development, peace and security, climate governance, and human rights.

Highlighting the establishment of a standing Network of African think tanks, President Tinubu, praised the initiative as a visionary move to ensure African voices are heard in resolving global governance challenges.

He also reiterated his commitment to negotiating the peaceful return of democratic governance in ECOWAS member states affected by military interventions.

In closing, President Tinubu officially declared the conference open, wishing participants fruitful deliberations.

On his part, the former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari and founder/chairman of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy, and Development, Ibrahim Gambari, said Africans must be vocal advocates for causes that concern them.

He said: “As Africans, we must be our champions and very vocal advocates. All Africans must desire for each other a continent that is peaceful, secure, united, and prosperous.

“We must promote constitutionalism and respect for human rights and human dignity. These we must reach a consensus on as our non-negotiables and upon which all else will be built,” said Gambari.

The ace diplomat called for reforms in the UN saying “Our position for reform of the UN Security Council is to evolve into a body that is not paralysed by the misuse of vetoes as demonstrated in the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.

“It must also be a more inclusive body by making changes to the configuration of both permanent and non-permanent member states, and more importantly, Africa deserves two permanent seats at the council.

“The International multilateral institutions, especially the Bretton Woods institutions, should play a stronger role as an effective partner, understanding where we are in the development lifecycle while promoting trade facilitation, efficient harnessing, and maximisation of Africa’s resources for its economic growth and benefit.”

Gambari argued that the governance of these multilateral institutions must reflect effective African participation and thus responsiveness to its needs.

“Africa cannot be asked to defend that in which it did not participate in its definition and design,” he noted.

The Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, said the commission has a plan to completely change the continent Agenda by 2063.

 He blamed Africa’s failure to deepen democracy and collective security as a major impediment to achieving sustainable development and progress.

Governor Oyebanji; The Leader That Connects The Clock And The Compass.

Governor Oyebanji; The Leader That Connects The Clock And The Compass.

By Obababa GCFR.

Leadership is considered the most essential catalyst for development. A good leadership requires both efficiency and effectiveness. True leaders have the ability to connect the clock which signifies efficiency and the compass which implies a sense of direction, purpose, vision, perspective and balance.

Upon assumption of Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti State has been featuring in headlines where it is depicted as the emerging model in both leadership and socio-economic development. The foresight, dexterity and sagacity of Governor Oyebanji in giving the best leadership to the good people of Ekiti State is not only visible in those critical sectors that move the economy forward but also in the way the state gets it right in politics and polity.

Numerous awards and honours won by Ekiti State Governor reflects his outstanding disposition and general acceptability of his leadership style in the state, across the nation, and beyond.

Governor Oyebanji identifies development partners, individuals and institutions, collaborate and work together with them towards the development of his people.

He strengthen, economic and administrative institutions in the state for smooth running of governance and for maximum productivity. Governor Oyebanji is just the good ladder against the right wall. He knows the what, the how and the when.

Ekiti people are indeed lucky to have such a good leader. We just need to give him our support again to continue leading the state on the right track of sustainable development.

Governor Oyebanji is Keeping Ekiti Working towards shared prosperity.

Aseyori ni tomo Olorun.