Tinubu Relocates NACA to Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Tinubu Relocates NACA to Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

By Olamide Akinwumi

In a bid to streamline operations and enhance collaboration in the fight against HIV/AIDS, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Thursday has approved the relocation of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Previously under the purview of the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, NACA's relocation aims to foster synergy and coordination within the health sector, particularly in pursuit of the nation's goal to achieve the 95-95-95 pathway for ending the AIDS epidemic.

President Tinubu, in line with his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda, prioritizes harmonizing institutions across sectors to ensure improved coordination and synergy among agencies. The decision to relocate NACA underscores the president's commitment to efficient and qualitative service delivery to all Nigerians.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, reiterated the administration's commitment to harmonizing institutions within and between sectors. This strategic realignment is expected to facilitate more effective coordination and ensure that all Nigerians have access to quality healthcare services.

As Nigeria continues its efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and achieve sustainable development goals, the relocation of NACA to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare signals a proactive step towards strengthening the country's health system and advancing the collective agenda of ending the AIDS epidemic.

We Will Continue To Work With Intellectuals, Policy Experts For Nigeria's Progress – VP Shettima.

We Will Continue To Work With Intellectuals, Policy Experts For Nigeria's  Progress – VP Shettima. 

The Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, has said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will continue to harness the experience of Nigeria’s intellectuals and policy experts in actualizing the government’s renewed hope agenda.

 

He stated this on Thursday in Abuja when he received the board and management of Bruit Costaud, a government affairs outfit, strategic policy communications and advisory firm, at the Presidential Villa.

 

Sen. Shettima who applauded the foresight of the managing partner of the firm and former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, noted that the assemblage of renowned experts across diverse fields at the firm was commendable.

 

He said, “The calibre of people covering a wide spectrum of areas, including security, energy, international diplomacy, communications and others, is a testimony of the seriousness of the group.

 

“I am also glad to know that our intellectuals and policy experts are still relevant in the scheme of things, contributing to the progress of our country. That is how it should be. The world is knowledge-driven; everything that we are doing today is guided by knowledge. That is why we have to engage groups like yours.”

 

In his remark, Alhaji Lai Mohammed introduced members of the team which was on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, even as he thanked the Vice President for the opportunity to share insights on the firm’s activities and its proposal for the present administration.

 

He applauded the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing contemporary challenges, pledging the firm’s commitment to supporting the administration in succeeding in its task of transforming Nigeria.

“We reaffirm our commitment to the advancement of our beloved country, Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu (GCFR) and the well-being of its people. Together, we can overcome any challenge and realize the immense potential that Nigeria holds.

 

“Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment in its history, facing both challenges and opportunities that require astute policy guidance and strategic advocacy. We are confident that through the bold initiatives of Mr. President, we will surmount these challenges.”

 

Speaking further, Mohammed assured that the firm will deploy resources within its areas of expertise to support the government in addressing challenges in the economy and related areas. 

 

He said, “Your Excellency, our firm is dedicated to leveraging our expertise, experience, and extensive network to support government policies that promote economic prosperity, social equity, and sustainable development. As insiders with the knowledge and hands-on experience, we believe we can bring our experiences to bear to support the administration. 

 

“We commend your leadership and vision in supporting the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) to steer Nigeria towards the path of progress and prosperity. Your commitment to fostering innovation, empowering communities, and championing inclusive growth has not gone unnoticed.”

 

Also present at the meeting were senior advisers at the firm, former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; former Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Hon. Aisha Abubakar; a retired Diplomat, Amb. Tunde Ajisomo, and Engr Abdur Rasheed Omidiya, among others.

Oyebanji Engages FHA CEO, Honorable Oyetunde, to Advance Affordable Housing in Ekiti.

Oyebanji Engages FHA CEO, Honorable Oyetunde, to Advance Affordable Housing in Ekiti.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, embarked on a strategic meeting with the newly appointed Managing Director/CEO of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Honorable Oyetunde Ojo, and a team of senior officials at the Governor's office on Thursday, March 14th. The primary objective of the session was to deliberate on the state government's support for the Federal Government's affordable housing initiative.

During the deliberations, Governor Oyebanji stressed the significance of collaborative efforts between state and federal entities in addressing the pressing housing needs of the populace. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Ekiti State Government to actively engage and support the FHA's endeavors aimed at providing affordable housing solutions to the residents of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji assured the FHA delegation of the state government's preparedness to facilitate the housing project by earmarking suitable land parcels and providing essential infrastructure to facilitate the smooth implementation of the initiative. He reiterated the administration's unwavering dedication to enhancing the living standards of the people by ensuring access to quality and affordable housing options.

The meeting culminated in a mutual expression of optimism regarding the potential outcomes of the collaboration between the Ekiti State Government and the FHA. Both parties underscored the positive impact that such synergy would have on addressing housing challenges and driving socio-economic development across Ekiti State.

In appreciation of Governor Oyebanji's steadfast support and commitment to the success of the affordable housing initiative, the FHA delegation extended gratitude for the collaborative partnership.

The discussions highlighted the pivotal role of partnership and synergy between federal and state governments in addressing critical housing needs and fostering overall socio-economic growth within the state.

As the collaboration progresses, stakeholders eagerly anticipate further updates on the joint efforts between the Ekiti State Government and the Federal Housing Authority to deliver accessible and affordable housing solutions to the people of Ekiti State.

Ekiti First Lady Advocates For Equal Political And Economic Opportunities For Men And Women.

Ekiti First Lady Advocates For Equal Political And Economic Opportunities For Men And Women. 

....Pays Tributes to Afe Babalola's Mother as ABUAD Law Students Celebrate International Women's Day.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has advocated for equal political and economic opportunities for men and women in Nigeria to foster a just and equitable society.

Dr. Oyebanji made the call on Thursday while delivering a keynote address at this year's International Women's Day Lecture held in honor of the mother of the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), the late Chief (Mrs.) Abigail Ajayi Babalola.

The International Women's Day at ABUAD was organized by the Law Students' Society of the University to specially celebrate the virtues, life, and times of the late mother of the Founder. The theme of the celebration was "Inspiring Inclusion: Men and Women as Partners in Progress."

The Governor's wife said the Biodun Oyebanji Administration has been at the forefront of providing more political and economic opportunities to women, which has being widely acknowledged both locally and internationally as unprecedented.

According to her, Ekiti presently has seven female local government chairpersons, 16 female council vice-chairpersons, seven female council secretaries, 33 women councillors, a female Deputy Governor, a female Deputy Speaker, and six female House of Assembly members.

Dr. Oyebanji also informed the audience that other key positions presently occupied by women in Ekiti State include Secretary to the State Government, Accountant General, Auditor General for Local Governments, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, nine cabinet positions, and 28 non-cabinet positions.

She deplored the low percentage of women occupying positions in governance in Nigeria, which has prevented the voice of women from being heard in the national discourse, noting that the example set by Ekiti could be improved upon for men and women to occupy leadership positions without any bias.

Dr. Oyebanji identified strategies for inspiring more women inclusion to include equal access to opportunities and resources, representation and participation in decision-making, leading and mentoring,as well as promoting women's economic empowerment.

The First Lady suggested that young and elderly women should be actively engaged in the quest for personal development to enable them to fulfill their potentials to the benefit of the nation and mankind.

Dr. Oyebanji paid glowing tributes to the late mother of ABUAD Founder, celebrating her legacies of industry, enterprise, motherhood, discipline, and other virtues she stood for, in her lifetime.

In his remarks, ABUAD Founder, Aare Babalola, noted that Nigerians would experience better governance if women are given the opportunities to hold key leadership positions because they are loyal, hardworking, and accountable.

The legal icon said the excellence attained by his institution could be traced to the fact that women are occupying key positions of Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, and bursar, which shows that women can hold their own if given the opportunities.

Aare Babalola advocated a constitutional amendment to accommodate 40 per cent of women in elected and appointive positions at all levels in Nigeria, expressing belief that the country would witness better development and a reduction of corruption if the suggestion is implemented.

The ABUAD Founder also commended Dr. Oyebanji, whom he described as an "extraordinary First Lady," noting that her delivery of the keynote speech showed that she is a PhD holder in Education. He also commended Dr. Oyebanji for volunteering to teach students in the university free of charge.

The ABUAD law students presented a giant portrait of the mother of Aare Babalola, who, in return, donated N2 million to the Law Students' Society.

Ajoni LCDA Fights Against Child's Morbidity, Mortality, Distributes Food Supplements to 400 Infants and malnourished Children.

Ajoni LCDA Fights Against Child's Morbidity, Mortality, Distributes Food Supplements to 400 Infants and malnourished Children.

....canvasses exclusive breastfeeding for infants.

Being part of the measures to curb incidences of child's mortality and malnourishment, the Ajoni Local Council Development Area of Ekiti State, has distributed food supplements to 400 infants and children in the local councildevelopment area.

The Chairman of the Council, Hon. (Amb.) Michael Ogungbemi fcpa, who said the programme was being prosecuted since 2022 under Child's Cares policy of his administration, advised nursing mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding as part of the ways to mitigate infant morbidity and mortality rates in the state.

Hon. (Amb.) Michael Ogungbemi fcpa, Executive Chairman Ajoni LCDA.  

Prince Ogungbemi, who disclosed this in a statement he released in Ayedun Ekiti, headquarters of the LCDA, on Wednesday, stated that the policy was in tandem with the Human Capital Development of the Biodun Oyebanji's administration and high premium value it places on wellness of the citizens, especially the infants and children.

The council boss said the distribution of the free food supplement, was midwifed by the office of his wife , Olori Christianah Olayinka Ogungbemi, the Chairperson, while the staff of the community department of the council were saddled with the responsibility of mobilizing the mothers for the programme. This is the second phase with fair and equitable distribution to Ipao, Oke Ako, Irele, Ijowa, Itapaji and Iyemero communities.

Ogungbemi stated that the programme was being undertaken in partnership with the Bountiful Children's Foundation, BCF, USA to Improve the use and provisions of rich macronutrient food supplement for malnourished infants and children within 1,000 days of life into the new programme.

Ogungbemi said under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Children, that every infant and child is entitled to proper nutrition, consistent with their rights to life, survival, and development. 

The Chairman described as unacceptable, the frightening statistics that over 45% of deaths traceable to infants and children were caused by poor nutrition globally, adding that records substantiated the fact that over 820,000 children's lives could be saved each year, if all children between ages 0–23 months were optimally breastfed.

Canvassing strong support for exclusive breastfeeding, Prince Ogungbemi revealed that the concept remained the most effective way to ensure child's health and survival. 

Ogungbemi said: "This new child's health outreach programne has screened over 700 infants and children across Ajoni Local Council Development Area and had provided free supply of rich macronutrient food supplement to over four hundred 400 malnourished infants and children within Ajoni Communities. 

In its first phase, Ayebode, Odo Ayedun, Esun and Oke Ayedun communities benefitted in the intervention drive for uninterrupted six months provisions of rich macronutrient food supplement to malnourished infants and children.

"The Ajoni Child cares programme is a sustainable efforts in reducing Child's morbidity and mortality rate across Ajoni communities and to also aids children brain development, cognitive reasoning and healthiness in different homes or families within the LCDA as said by my wife. 

"Breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months of life, and sustained for up to 2 years or longer with appropriate complementary feeding like the provisions of rich macronutrient food supplement from 6 months to 3 years old infants and children's, is the biologically normal and unparalleled method of nourishing infants, especially vulnerable newborns.

"The food supplements support optimal growth, improves immune function and neurodevelopment, and has been proven to contain antibodies, reducing the disease burden, as endorsed in clinical guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF Nigeria, and leading health organisations, including the frontline impact documented by globally recognized Bountiful Children's Foundation, USA".

Speaking further on the significance of the programme, Ogungbemi stated that for the global community to achieve SDG target 3.2, which borders on ending all preventable deaths of newborns and children under 5 years of age by 2030, that the council had focused efforts on scaling up the Ajoni health Advocacy outreach for malnourished infants and children.

He added that the Ajoni Child's heath Advocacy Programme, is to promote and support newborns and children requiring intensive medical care, addressing barriers, as well as educating on the importance, expression techniques, and utilising breastfeeding aids and at-breast supplemental systems.

"The Ajoni LCDA and BCF free screening and provision of free and rich macronutrient food supplement programme also include research and evaluation component to monitor effectiveness and data, guiding future evidence-based interventions and development of a sustained supportive environment.

"By leveraging on a multidisciplinary approach and prioritising parental involvement, this programme contributes to improve health outcomes of infants by reducing the child's morbidity and mortality rate in the Local Council Development Area and Ekiti State at large", he stated.

EKSG Names Eight-Member Committee On Food Security.

EKSG Names Eight-Member Committee On Food Security.

Ekiti State Government has named an eight- member committee on Food Security with a mandate to provide support for farmers and enhance local food production, contributing to the primary goal of reducing food prices and addressing hunger in the country.

The committee, headed by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, comprises the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode; Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo; Special Adviser/Director General Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr. Moyo Ekundayo; Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi; Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani and the Special Adviser on Governance, Mr. Odunayo Ayeni.

The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun who made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti on the outcome of the meeting of the State Executive Council held on Tuesday, explained that the committee was to come up with strategy to mitigate food crisis. 

Reiterating the commitment of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration to the general wellbeing of residents, Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun stressed that food security goes beyond adequate food supply, adding that the administration considers it to include availability, accessibility and utilization of food as well as the vital role of trade in the equation.

He assured that the State Government would continue to make farming attractive in the State and move farmers from the, hitherto, subsistent farming to improved mechanized/commercial farming.

Olatunbosun highlighted some of the administrations interventions in agriculture in the State to include land clearing for cluster farming in about 30 points within the state aimed at promoting and increasing productivity in maize, rice, and cassava production, distribution of maize to livestock farmers, distribution of SF2 Solar Irrigation Pumps to farmers, facilitation of low interest loans under Ministry of Trade, Industry, investment and cooperatives to benefit cooperative farmers, introduction of the State Tractorization Subsidy Scheme, and renovation of moribund Agricultural Farm buildings to accommodate the Livestock Development Centre (LDC) and Ekiti Youth in Urban Farming project (EYiUF).   

Other Government’s interventions are: payment of N20M counterpart fund for Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support (L-PRES), establishment of 2 hectares model polyclonal cashew farm/scion garden, sales of 12,000 hybrid cocoa seedlings at 50% subsidy to farmers, sales of 5,000 polyclonal cashew seedlings at 50% subsidy to farmers, 50% subsidy on tractorization to farmers, enumeration of non-exhaustive crops on 250 hectares of land, Overhauling of the poultry pens at Livestock Development Centre (LDC) and construction of drainage system at the poultry site at Erifun as well as renovation of the existing borehole for steady supply of water at the poultry site amongst others.

Nigeria Opens Land, Air Borders With Republic Of Niger, Lifts Other Sanctions.

Nigeria Opens Land, Air Borders With Republic Of Niger, Lifts Other Sanctions.

President Bola Tinubu has directed the opening of Nigeria's land and air borders with the Republic of Niger and the lifting of other sanctions against the country with immediate effect.

This directive is in compliance with the decisions of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at its extraordinary summit on February 24, 2024, in Abuja.

ECOWAS leaders had agreed to lift economic sanctions against the Republic of Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.

The President has directed that the following sanctions imposed on the Republic of Niger be lifted immediately:

(1) Closure of land and air borders between Nigeria and Niger Republic, as well as ECOWAS no-fly zone on all commercial flights to and from Niger Republic.

(2) Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between Nigeria and Niger, as well as freeze of all service transactions, including utility services and electricity to Niger Republic.

(3) Freeze of assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks and freeze of assets of the Republic of Niger, state enterprises, and parastatals in commercial banks.

(4) Suspension of Niger from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly EBID and BOAD.

(5) Travel bans on government officials and their family members.

President Tinubu has also approved the lifting of financial and economic sanctions against the Republic of Guinea.