040708
N.Delta: binding commitment from all stakeholders critical
The President says the Niger Delta Summit is critical to obtaining a binding commitment from all stakeholders to stop all acts of violence and criminality which have turned the Niger-Delta into a no-go-area for many of the construction companies and contractors.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Communications, Olusegun Adeniyi quotes President Yar’Adua as saying that when he assumed office last year, most of the contractors who were mobilized to site in the Niger Delta had abandoned their projects, after collecting huge sums of money because of insecurity and the ever-present threats of violence.
The President said the continuous disruption of work by armed gangs, coupled with rampant kidnappings of expatriates, and their family members makes it imperative to provide security cover for the workers.
The situation sometimes involves deployment of troops, which has currently driven up the cost of executing projects in the Niger Delta, by about 300 per cent with no guarantee of completion.
President Yar’Adua said under these circumstances, it had become absolutely necessary to engage all stakeholders in the region in meaningful and purposeful dialogue aimed at removing all obstacles to the implementation of his Administration’s plans for the Niger-Delta.
The Stakeholders Summit is therefore expected to provide the forum for this dialogue and the adoption by all stakeholders of the Present administration plan for addressing the developmental challenges of the region.
FCT: Chairman CAN advocates constructive opposition among politicians
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, FCT Chapter, Reverend Father Willy Ojukwu has advocated for constructive opposition among politicians in the country.
Revered Father Ojukwu, who made this remark when he visited the Director of News Radio Nigeria in Abuja, said it would help the government to be resourceful, committed and improve in its performance.
Reverend Father Ojukwu then urged the federal government to be proactive in taking decisions on the several probe panels.
Representing the Director of News, the Head of Political Unit, Mr. Mohammed Bello noted with delight the long-standing relationship between Reverend Father Ojukwu and Radio Nigeria, especially when he presented the morning devotion for the Corporation.
Mr. Bello congratulated the Reverend Father and promised the Corporation’s support.
Mr. Bello advised other clergymen to emulate the religious tolerance being exhibited by Reverend Father Willy Ojukwu.
NRS launches global HIV/AIDS Alliance Programme
A Three-year action plan for global HIV/AIDS Alliance Programme has been launched by the Nigerian Redcross Society to fight the pandemic.
The Acting Secretary-General of the Nigerian Redcross Society, Mr. Patrick Bawa while launching the programme in Abuja, said it would be executed with six hundred million Naira.
Mr. Bawa said the initiative was a contribution of the Redcross to the global HIV/AIDS project, through the international federation of Redcross and Redcrescent societies.
He noted that the programme was a new comprehensive HIV/AID Programme, which intended to reduce vulnerability to HIV and its impact on Nigeria.
The global Alliance launched in 2006 an operational concept of the Redcross, which has mobilised thirty Redcross Societies across the world.
Late submission of budget proposals detrimental to country - NDDC
The Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, says late submission of budget proposals by the Ministries and Agencies is detrimental to the over-all development of the country.
The Chairman of the Committee, Senator James Manager stated this at the 2008 budget Defence of the NDDC.
Senator Manager stated that the budget proposals were being defended at the third quarter of the year was counter productive for rapid development of a nation.
In his remark, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Mr. Timi Alaibe, applauded the 2008 budget and remarked that it was hoperising towards the actualisation of the recommendations of the Development Master-plan of the Commission.
He said that the NDDC had facilitated a regional Development Master-plan which would transform the area.
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030708
Senate C’ttee to ensure that strike by NUT did not derail education
The Senate Committee on Education has expressed its determination to ensure that the incessant strikes by various academic bodies did not derail the educational development targets of the Federal Government.
In a statement, the Chairman of the Committee Senator Joy Emodi called on the Nigerian Union of teachers, NUT to use dialogue as the only avenue for resolving the crisis.
Senator Emodi, who described NUT as the most responsible Trade Union in the country, said the falling standard of the education system could only be tackled through the spirit of patriotism and maturity.
Senator Emodi said that the Committee would do everything within its powers to ensure harmony in the education sector and bring an end to the current NUT strike.
NGO donates bus to the Abuja chicken Sellers Association
As part of efforts to curb the spread of bird flu in Nigeria, the International Organisation for Migration, IOM, has donated a 18 seater bus to the Abuja chicken Sellers Association.
Presenting the bus on behalf of the IOM, the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Toshitsugu Uesawa told the gathering at the occasion that the concerted effort by the Nigerian government in fighting the spread of Avian Influenza had prompted the intervention of the International Organisation.
He described the collaboration between IOM, Japan and the Nigerian Government as a landmark in addressing the problem of Avian influenza.
Mr Toshitsugu Uesawa said the project had created awareness on Avian influenza in Nigeria and improved the preparedness to fight the scourge.
The FCT Secretary of Chicken Sellers Association, Mallam Mohammed Ali who commended the donors however asked for the provision of facilities such as water, electricity, storage facilities and hygienic environment in markets.
In a goodwill message, the United Nation’s Resident Avian Influenza Co-ordinator, Dr Joy Njoro asked the stakeholders to be steadfast in the fight against the Avian Influenza to guarantee total eradication.
CAN hails National Assembly
The North Central Zone of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has commended the two chambers of the National Assembly for the bravery so far displayed in the investigative panels into the activities of some Agencies and parastals.
During a courtesy call on the senate President, the Chairman, North Central of CAN, Reverend Yakubu Pam said the public hearings were necessary especially, at this time when some National Leaders had not fully realised the objective of their call to National service.
Reverend Pam also urged the Senate President to intensify the crusade against corruption in the country.
Responding, Senate President David Mark called on Christians to seek divine intervention to the various crises in the country.
Senator Mark stated that his vision as Chairman of the National Assembly was to entrench transparency, diligence and performance into the society in the interest of democracy.
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020708
International investors Forum ends in Abuja
The two-day Honorary International Investors Forum has ended in Abuja with a call on the Nigeria Government to intensify efforts at bringing back Nigerian professionals abroad to contribute more effectively to national development.
The co-ordinator of the Forum, Baroness Linda Chalker said the excellent jobs Nigerian professionals were doing abroad needed to be properly utilized for the country’s rapid development.
The meeting also stressed the need for Nigeria to adopt more stringent measures to tackle such issues as diseases.
The Investors Forum however commended Nigeria for taking steps to promote transparency and increase foreign investment through the anti-corruption war
NIMC embarks on infrastructure upgrading with creation of NID
The Nation Identity Management Commission has embarked on infrastructure upgrading with the creation of a National Identity Database.
The Director General of the Commission, Mr. Chris Onyemenam made this known in Abuja at a news briefing on the forthcoming identity management conference.
Mr. Onyemenam said the Commission was also working towards establishing registration centres across the country.
The Director General further stated that the commission would focus on effective identity management.
Correspondent reports that the National Identity Management Commission was created last year to create and maintain a national identity management infrastructure.
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010708
NASS to enact law to arrest exam fraudsters – WAEC
WAEC wants the National Assembly to enact a law that will empower it to arrest and prosecute examination fraudsters.
The Head of the National Office of the Council, Lagos, Dr. Iyi Uwadiae made this suggestion when he appeared before the House of Representatives public hearing on the non-remittance of revenue into the Federation Account by Agencies, Departments and Corporations.
Bauchi in all out war against deadly diseases
The Bauchi State Agency for the control of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, leprosy and malaria is to procure about one hundred million Naira worth of drugs this year to effectively fight the diseases.
The Executive Secretary of the Agency Dr Rilwanu Muhammed, who made this known in Bauchi, said seventeen TB laboratories would be upgraded and provided with enough drugs and other vital equipment.
Dr. Muhammed explained that sixty five million naira out of the amount would be used to procure more anti retroviral drugs and HIV test kits while the remaining would be used for the purchase of TB and leprosy drugs.
Correspondent reports that there are currently one hundred and twelve Centres providing free leprosy drugs to patients throughout the State.
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270608
NGO wants stakeholders to collaborate on improving education
A non-governmental organisation, “Teachers Without Borders” wants every stakeholder to collaborate with it in the efforts to improve the standard of education in the country.
The African Regional Director of the Organisation, Mr Raphael Oko was speaking in Abuja at a ceremony to honour those who have contributed immensely to the development of the nation.
Mr Oko explained that such honour would encourage the beneficiaries to do more for the country while others would be stimulated to do same.
He told the gathering that his organisation was committed to poverty eradication, promotion of Gender Equality, reduction in child mortality and the achievement of the Universal Primary Education.
One of the Awardees and National Commandant, Peace Corps Nigeria, Chief Dickson Akoh described the award as a recognition of his modest effort to improve the society.
Teachers Without Borders was founded in 2000 with the mission to bridge the education gap and facilitate the creation of a world without border.
Correspondent reports that about thirty-five persons both within and outside the country were appointed Ambassadors of the organisation.
ERC: Contributors recommend radical departure from existing voting system
Contributors on the third day of the public hearing by the Electoral Reform Committee, ERC, in Abuja have recommended a radical departure from the existing voting system in the country.
The Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Peters Adeyemi who spoke for the body, wanted accreditation before voting as well as counting of votes on the spot.
Comrade Adeyemi also called for an increase in the membership of the legislature at all levels by thirty percent.
Mr Sam Orji who represented the government and political arm of the Redeem Evangelical Mission, TREM, recommended electronic voting system in future elections.
The Chairman of Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, BON, Alhaji Abubakar Jijiwa, wanted special grants to be given to Radio and Television stations during elections, to enable them mobilize the electorate.
A group known as “Victims of Persecutions”, VOP, recommended a statutory restriction on the number of states and legislative seats adding that one particular political party should be allowed to win.
Its spokesman, Mr Chukwuma-Machukwu Ume explained the rationale for the proposal.
NGO advises Youths to shun inducement by the political elite
The Chairman of Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company, Alhaji Abdulkadir Sanusi has advised Youths to shun inducement by the political elite to use them for thuggery or any form of illegality.
Alhaji Abdulkadir stated this in a message to the launching of the clean Foundation Network Magazine in Abuja.
Alhaji Abdulkadir who was represented by the PRO Mr Ado Habib urged the Youths to be disciplined and see themselves as agents of change in the society.
Also, speaking, Alhaji the Deputy National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, Dr. Bello Mohammed urged the youths to cultivate the culture of hard work, perseverance and patriotism in order to have a better Nigeria.
Mr. Kangama Haruna who is the Project Co-ordinator of Clean Foundation Network said that the organisation is aimed at reaching out to youths, particularly tertiary institution and mobilize them for the course of National Development.
NCWS calls for implementation of Child Health Integration Policy
The National Council for Women societies NCWS, has called for the implementation of maternal Newborn and Child Health Integration Policy to reduce maternal and child mortality.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a workshop in Minna on ways to reduce maternal and child mortality, organized for women leaders at the grass roots.
The communiqué says Nigeria accounts for the second highest prevalence of maternal and Child Mortality in the World, as one million Children die every year.
It adds that one hundred and fourty-five women die every day from avoidable pregnancy and child birth complications, resulting in more than fifty five thousand death every year.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the council identified lack of political will, Low budget allocation, poor State of health infrastructure and lack of accountability as factors responsible for the high rate of maternal mortality.
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260608
Queen of England annuls President Mugabe’s knighthood
Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe’s honorary knighthood has been annulled by the Queen of England.
The annulment followed the spate of violence ahead of a Presidential run-off election slated for this Friday.
The British Foreign Secretary David Miliband recommended to the Queen that President Mugabe be stripped of the honour and the Queen has approved the request.
President Mugabe was made a knight commander of the order of the Bath in 1984.
Mr. Mugabe is the first Foreigner to be stripped of the award since Romanian Leader Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989.
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250608
Delta: Gov. orders removal of primary school teachers salary from LGs
Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State has advocated the removal of payment of primary school teachers’ salary from local governments.
He made the call at an education stakeholders’ meeting in Asaba.
The Governor stressed that the responsibility of payment of teacher’s salary had become a burden, making it difficult for most local governments to embark on meaningful projects.
He said the system if not looked into, may lead to the collapse of the education sector.
Archbishop decries nation’s inability to develop electoral process
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Reverend John Onaiyekan has decried the nation’s inability to develop a workable electoral process forty-seven years after independence.
His views were contained in a presentation he made in Abuja at the electoral reform committee’s public hearing.
Represented by Reverend Raphael Nwankwo, Archbishop Onaiyekan noted that the electoral law was not the major problem but the deprivation of the sovereign power of the people.
The Clergy noted that rigging of election had hindered the country’s democratic processes.
Archbishop Onaiyekan appealed to politicians to respect the nation’s electoral laws.
Pilgrims newly appointed chairman pledges for effective performance
The newly appointed Chairman of the Kano State Pilgrims welfare board, Sheikh Ibrahim Umar Kabo has pledged to mobilise staff of the board for effective performance and hitch free Hajj operations this year.
He stated this while speaking with newsmen at the boards headquarters in Kano.
Sheikh Ibrahim also promised to ensure early preparations and strict policing of the activities of the airlines to be involved in the airlift operation of the over seven thousand pilgrims from the state for the next Hajj.
The new Chairman who praised the late immediate past Chairman of the board for the achievement recorded in the previous years, assured that he would consolidate on that for successful conduct of the operations in the coming years.
Mr Sheikh Ibrahim Kabo’s appointment followed the death of Mr Sheikh Abubakar Ramadan two weeks ago.
Stakeholders advocate special cut-off point for educationally backward states
Stakeholders in the education sector have advocated a special cut-off point for educationally disadvantaged states in addition to the national cut-off points for admission into Nigerian Universities.
Speaking at the tenth Joint Consultative Meeting of the policy committee on admission to degree awarding institutions in Abuja, the Registrar of JAMB, Professor Dibu Ojerinde explained that the proposal would give additional opportunity to states that were heavily undersubscribed during admission exercises.
He said the policy would bridge the educational imbalance in the country.
Professor Dibu Ojerinde spoke on other measures to put in plans by JAMB to improve its services.
Professor Ojerinde said the ratio of forty-five percent merit, thirty-five percent catchment area and twenty percent educationally backward states should be strictly adhered to during admission.
Delivering a key note address, the Minister of Education, Dr Igwe Aja Nwachukwu expressed dismay over the habit of conducting pre-JAMB examination by some Universities before the release of JAMB results.
Dr Nwachukwu commended stakeholders for the completion of the review of 2009 to 2010 brochure.
He was optimistic that the exercise would harmonize the accredited programmes of all degree awarding institutions.
In the recently released UME results, states like Taraba, Sokoto, Jigawa, Zamfara and Yobe recorded very low percentages as against very high percentages recorded by Imo, Delta, Edo, Akwa Ibom and Abia States.
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240608
Jigawa State Gov. enjoins political office holders to live up to expectations
Governor Sule Lamido of Jigawa State has enjoined political office holders to live up to the expectations of the electorate.
Governor Lamido was speaking when he received former Head of State and Convener Nigeria Prays, Retired General Yakubu Gowon at government house, Dutse.
The Governor noted that until elected representatives see public office as a trust, much of the problems in the society would persist.
He said the state government was in support of the pray for peace progress and stability of the country.
In a remark, General Yakubu Gowon appealed to Christians in the state to be supportive of Governor Lamido’s efforts to improve the state’s general wellbeing.
The former Head of State also advised members of the state Executive Council and the legislature to offer useful suggestions to the Governor on how to move the state to greater heights.
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180608
NCC solicits for collaboration with the NCS
The Director General of the Nigeria Copyright Commission, NCC, Mr. Adebambo Adewopo has solicited for more collaboration with the Nigeria Custom Service to ensure that the nation was not made a dumping ground for inferior goods.
Mr. Adewopo was speaking when he visited the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Custom Service, Mr. Hamman Ahmed in Abuja.
He said the measure would also give credibility to the Commission and enhance its performance.
The Director General who noted that piracy remained a major challenge to the harnessing and protection of intellectual property, urged the Comptroller General to effect the transfer of some pirated items from South Africa, which were seized in Lagos, and ensure the prosecution of the culprits.
In a remark, the Comptroller General of Nigeria Custom Service, Mr. Hamman Ahmed promised to support the Commission in all its activities.
Mr. Ahmed stressed the need for the Commission to provide data and samples of items that could be pirated for easy detection.
He said intellectual property and copyright courses would soon be introduced at the training college of the Nigeria Custom Service for effective service delivery.
Unknown persons vandalise NITEL cables
NITEL cables providing telecommunications services to high security areas in Abuja have been vandalised by yet to be identified persons.
The areas affected by the vandalism are the State House, Defence Services Headquarters and the State Security Services.
Others are the Federal Secretariat and the National Assembly Complex.
A statement from NITEL said the development had resulted in complete breakdown of telecommunication services in these places.
It however said efforts were being made to restore services to the affected areas.
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170608
Nigeria has the potential to become a developed economy – Dr Mailafia
Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr Obadiah Mailafia says Nigeria is right to nurse the ambition of becoming one of the world’s most developed economies.
Dr Obadiah who was commenting on the state of affairs in the country however said there were many conditions, which Nigeria must meet to achieve it.
One of such conditions he said was for Nigeria to adequately address the power and energy problem the country has been grappling with-over the years.
According to Dr Mailafia, once Nigeria gets that done it will be on the path of achieving that ambition.
Dr Mailafia also spoke on the state of the nation’s education system.
Dr Mailafia stressed that the nations roads, sea-ports, Inlands Water Ways, Airports and Railways need to be properly developed.
Chief of Army Staff warms against molestation of civilians
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Luka Yusuf, has warned the army not to molest civilians.
Lieutenant General Yusuf, gave the warning in Gusau during an inspection visit to one Base Ammunition Depot Gusau, Zamfara.
General Yusuf stressed that the Military were duty bound to provide security to the people from both Internal and external aggression.
The Chief of Army Staff said a machinery had already been set up to check the trend among men of the Nigerian Army.
Ekiti State Govt procures about ten thousand metric tonnes of fertilizer
The Ekiti State government has procured about ten thousand metric tonnes of fertilizer for this year’s farming season.
Commissioner for Agriculture, Professor Akin Omotola told News Agency of Nigeria in Ado-Ekiti that the procurement cost the state government seven hundred and twenty six million naira.
The procurement of the commodity in large quantity according to the Commissioner was part of efforts to boost food production in the state.
The fertilizer is to be sold to farmers at subsidized rates.
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070608
Benue Govt signs contract of N4b for water rehabilitation
The Benue State Government in Makurdi signed a contract of over four billion Naira for the rehabilitation and construction of new Otobi-Otukpo and Katsina-Ala water works.
Signing the contract on behalf of the State Government, Water Resources and Environment Commissioner, Mr. John Ngbede explained that when completed the new water works would be capable of distributing fifteen thousand cubic liters of water to the people on a daily basis.
Its completion he also said would put to an end the problem of perennial water scarcity in the areas and charged the contractor to execute the job according to specifications.
The Managing Director of the contracting company, Mr. Li Xuhui in his response, assured of completing the contract on time-and within the eighteen-month contractual period for its completion.
ICPC advocates integrity training of public servants
The Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, has advocated integrity training of all public servants across the country to be conducted by the commission.
The Chairman of the ICPC, Justice Emmanuel Ayoola who made the call at the graduation of officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, who undertook a three-week course at the Commission’s Training Academy in Abuja, said such a measure would hasten the fight against corruption in the country.
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060608
Mark advocates abrogation of indigeneship & settlers dichotomy
Senate President, David Mark wants the abrogation of indigeneship and settlers dichotomy in all states of the federation.
Receiving the Director-General of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Mr. Joseph Golwa in his office, Senator Mark stressed that a system which guarantees equal opportunities for all citizens should be encouraged.
The Senate President argued that Nigerians must be accepted anywhere in the country with the right to move from one place to another without molestation.
The Director-General of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Mr. Joseph Golwa called for the support of the Federal Government and the National Assembly towards finding lasting resolution to the indigeneship crisis which he explained, has claimed many lives and properties in the country.
Adamawa Govt spends N16m to raise tree seedlings
The Adamawa State Government has spent sixteen million naira to raise two million assorted tree seedlings to fight environmental degradation.
Governor Murtala Nyako announced this in Yola on the occasion of the World Environment Day.
The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Bala Ngillam called on the people to imbibe the habit of planting trees instead of destroying them.
In her speech, the Commissioner for Environment, Mrs. Hanatu Kadala lamented that the Northern part of the state was now prone to pollution as a result of exploitation of the forest, adding that some measures had been taken to stop it.
The occasion featured drama presentation and award of prices to NGO’s and schools which had excelled in environment matters.
NUJ urges Senate to investigate the sale of the Daily Times
The Chairman of the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr. Wahab Alabi-Oba has urged the Senate to investigate the processes leading to the sale of the Daily Times.
Speaking during a visit to Senate President, David Mark, Mr Wahab Oba said the preferred bidder of the Daily Times did not possess the where withal to run the organisation.
He also called for Senate intervention in the operations of the Guardian Newspapers.
In his response, Senate President, David Mark pledged to refer the complaints to the appropriate committees.
NIFST enjoins Govt to start local production of fertilizers
The Nigeria Institute of Food Science and Technology has called on government to start the production of fertilizer on large scale in the country rather than importing it.
The president of the Institute, Mrs. Sola Adesokan said this during the institute’s day celebration in Abuja. The measure, according to her is to encourage increased food production.
She said the theme for this year’s celebration was empowering women in food processing for the prevention of National Food Crisis.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Bells University of Technology, Abeokuta, Professor Adebayo Adeyemi urged the institute to come up with a proposal that would assist government in ensuring that women were adequately empowered.
The Nigeria Institute of Food Science and Technology is the Professional Body representing food scientists and technologists in the country.
Minister calls for collaboration between NAS and DPR of Korea
Science and Technology Minister, Mrs Grace Ekpiwhre has called for strong collaboration between Nigeria Academy of Science and that of Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea.
Mrs Ekpiwhre made the call when the Ambassador of Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea to Nigeria, Ambassador Richarn Ho called on her in her office.
Mrs Ekpiwhre told the Ambassador that Nigeria is presently placing high priority on the Technologies of the Millennium which she itemized as Information Technology, Nano-technology, Space technology and Biotechnology, because their applications are very suitable to the nation’s developmental aspirations.
Mrs Ekpiwhre said the focus on these is informed by their usefulness in poverty alleviation and employment generation.
Ambassador Richan Ho said Science and Technology has developed tremendously the world over and stressed the need for developing countries to prioritize its technological needs.
He assured the Minister of his country’s readiness to collaborate with Nigeria in the area of nano-technology, information technology and basic sciences.
Senate C’ttee Chairman denounces refusal to honour C’ttee’s invitation
The Chairman Senate Committee on Commerce, Senator John Danlami Ikeya has warned against the refusal by some members of the Executive Council to honour invitations to meetings with the committee.
Reacting to the absence of the Finance Minister at a meeting of the committee with stakeholders on the concessioning of the Tafawa Balewa Square and the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, Senator Ikeya said such attitudes would no longer be tolerated.
Senator Ikeya announced that a public hearing would be organized to reconcile the conflicting views of stakeholders on the exercise.
A representative of the Amalgamated Union, Mr David Deka complained that the concessioning of the International Trade Fair Complex had exposed his members to untold harassment by the preferred bidder.
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050608
Foreign Affairs Minister advices on effective service delivery
Senior officers of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have been urged to give prominence to the welfare and dignity of Nigerians within and outside the country.
This is in conformity with the new citizenship diplomacy and service delivery SERVICOM policies of the present administration.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Ojo Maduekwe gave the advice in Abuja in a message on SERVICOM for senior officers of the ministry.
Chief Maduekwe described officers of the Ministry as the mirror that reflects the Nigerian nation to the international community and should therefore be at the vanguard of speedy and quality service delivery.
In his remarks, the Director and Head of SERVICOM in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Y.D Gukas said the seminar would expose senior officers to the philosophy and concept of SERVICOM since most of them were on postings when the programme was launched in 2004.
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030608
About N7b is needed to offset outstanding allowance for SIWES- DG ITF
About seven billion naira is needed to offset the outstanding allowance for the Student Industrial Working Experience Scheme.
This was made known by the Director General of Industrial Training Fund, ITF, Professor Longmas Wapmuk at a stakeholders meeting in Abuja.
Professor Wapmuk said out of the amount, four billion naira would be used to pay the backlog of allowances from 2003 to 2007.
He however said only about eight hundred million was appropriated for the organisation this year and three hundred million released to the fund.
Professor Wapmuk stressed that funding SIWES was a major problem to ITF.
Correspondent reports that Student Industrial Working Experience Scheme was initiated in 1974 to expose students to work methods and techniques in handling equipment and machinery.
IFJ expresses appreciation to the NUJ for successful conference last year
The International Federation of Journalists, IFJ, has expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Union of Journalists for the successful hosting of the First African Journalists Conference in November last year.
A statement by the IFJ, Africa Office described as immense contribution and show of leadership in raising funds and hosting the more than twenty-two union and association Presidents across the continent.
The statement further extended deep appreciation to the government for its unflinching support in making the conference a success through valuable contributions by Senior Government representatives at the opening ceremonies.
IFJ also called on President Umaru Musa Yar’adua to support the Freedom of Information Bill and Push for its passage, stressing that it would enhance the ideals of transparency, accountability and participation.
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020608
Abia: Pro-Chancellor and others call on FG to construct more rural roads
More people in Abia State are calling on the State Government to construct more rural roads to ease movement of farm produce in the state.
The Pro-Chancellor Abia State University, Uturu, Professor Joshua Ogbonnaya called for major infrastructure to be extended to the rural areas.
Another speaker who is a member of the State House of Assembly, Dr. Blessing Azuru, advocated the renovation of schools especially in the rural areas.
The Methodist Bishop of Church of Nigeria 1962 Foundation Constitution Umuahia, Bishop James Anyanwu advised the governor to ignore sycophants and focus on the provision of infrastructure.
While the Secretary Joint Association of People with Disability in Abia State called for the revival of scholarship for the physically challenged.
The respondents were however unanimous in their views that the Governor, Dr. Theodore Orji has performed creditably in the past one year in office.
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280508
Imoke assures meaningful policies for children
Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State says his administration will embark on meaningful policies and projects that will strengthen the physical and mental wellbeing of children.
Governor Imoke gave the assurance when members of the State Children Parliament were on advocacy visit to his office in Calabar.
He explained that government had already put in place children programmes comparable to their counterparts in the civilised world and that the Child Rights Act would soon be domesticated in the state.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Children’s Parliament, Miss Loveth Nja commended the Governor for hosting them and requested for greater funding, scholarship awards for members, secretariat and official vehicle to enhance their activities.
In a remark, the wife of the Governor, Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke lauded the initiative of the parliament at bringing the problems of children to the attention of government and encouraged them to evolve programme that would sensitize other children on issues concerning them.
The occasion featured a mock session of parliament with the theme, “a state fit for a child” by members of the children parliament.
RATTAWU: Senate to facilitate payment of arrears
The Senate has promised to intervene and facilitate the payment of the two years arrears of monetisation allowances to members of RATTAWU.
Receiving a delegation of RATTAWU in his office, Senate President David Mark condemned the situation whereby members of the Union were being owed twenty-four months arrears of monetised fringe benefits.
The new President of RATTAWU, Yemisi Bamgbose urged the Senate President to use his office to ensure the settlement of the arrears and support the review of the salary structure of staff in the electronic media.
Mr. Bamgbose commended the Senate for giving the country positive image within and outside the country through its operations.
New Ambassadorial list out soon - Ojo Maduekwe
A new list is being compiled to fill the vacant positions of Heads of Nigerian Missions abroad including that of South Africa.
The minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Ojo Maduekwe announced this on Tuesday at a news briefing in Abuja.
He confirmed that not less than seven new Ambassadors would be posted to head the missions after they had been ratified by the Senate.
Chief Maduekwe explained that no country had formally indicated interest in the proposed two seats for Africa in the Security Council because it would be suicidal to do so when the proposal had not been ratified by the United Nations.
Chief Maduekwe said Nigeria’s new citizenship diplomacy had begun to yield fruit with an apology from the South African Government over the unfortunate attacks on Nigerians and other Africans in that country.
He reiterated the Federal government’s resolve to seek compensation from South Africa over the injury inflicted and the loss suffered by Nigerians during the attacks.
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260508
Commissioner warns officials against sharp practices on sale of grains
The Kano State Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Musa Suleiman Shanono has warned officials charged with selling of grains against any sharp practices.
Alhaji Musa gave the warning while monitoring the sale of the commodities in some parts of the state capital.
The Commissioner disclosed that the State government had procured about twenty-seven thousand bags of maize, sorghum and millet for sale to the public at a subsidized rate of one thousand five hundred naira per bag.
He also advised local government Chairmen in the state to complement efforts of state government in bringing succour to their people.
Alhaji Musa explained the sale outlets have been increased from thirty to fifty in the state capital.
Bayelsa: PDP chairman says Party victory shows strong presence
The Chairman of the PDP in the State, Chief Rufus Abadi Osiri says the party’s victory is an indication of PDP’s strong presence in the state.
He promised that the PDP would carry everybody along in the administration of the state.
However, the State Secretary of the Action Congress, Mr Juventus Dikinas said the party did not accept the outcome of the election.
According to him, the outcome fell far short of the party’s expectation.
The leader of the observer team during the election, Mr Niyi Omoyele said his team was satisfied with the conduct of the election.
Correspondent reports that the Governor elect, Timipre Sylva had a high level consultation with PDP chieftains immediately after the announcement of the result.
AFRITEX enjoins Nigerians to explore benefits of ICT
Nigerians have been enjoined to explore the benefits of Information Communication Technology ICT, to boost the growth of the economy.
The Co-ordinator, Africa Information Technology exhibition and Strategic Conference, AFRITEX, Mr. Sola Oworu stated this in Abuja while briefing newsmen on the forthcoming conference aimed at showcasing African technology in Science and Technology.
According to Mr. Oworu, effective use of ICT would bridge the gap between Nigeria and other advanced countries.
He noted that the conference would bring to the fore the potential of African Technology.
The three day event which would draw participants from all African countries as well as Asia, Middle East, Europe and the USA has its theme as “Harnessing the opportunities in Africa ICT environment.
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240508
NYCN Wants FG to Grant to Repentant Militant Youth of Niger-Delta States
The National Youth Council of Nigeria wants the Federal Government to grant amnesty to repentant militant youth of the Niger-Delta States.
In a communiqué at the end of the first Nigerian Youth summit in Abuja, the Vice President of the Council, Comrade Marvin Yobana called on government to release all outstanding funds accruable to the Niger-Delta Development Commission to boost speedy implementation of the region’s development plan.
He said youth restiveness should not be used as an excuse to install the development of the Niger Delta region.
Comrade Yobana said youths must always be involved in the developmental process of the country.
Bauchi: Head Civil Service Appeals to ensure that Civil Servants are properly trained
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Ebele Okeke has appealed to the Bauchi State government to ensure that Federal and State Civil Servants are properly trained.
She made the appeal when she paid a courtesy call on Governor Isa Yuguda.
Ms Okeke also enjoined the government to appoint more women in the Bauchi State cabinet.
Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Garba Mohammed assured the Head of Service that adequate arrangement were being made to sponsor civil servants for training.
Abia: SCDC Apprehends 10 Persons Involved in Illegal Possession
The Abia State Command of the Security and Civil Defence Corps has apprehended ten persons involved in illegal possession of two hundred and fifty gallons of fifty litres petroleum products each.
Parading the suspects before newsmen at Isiala Ngwa North Operational headquarters of the Command, the Commandant, Alhaji Dauda Mungadi said his men were able to accomplish the feat following the inauguration of an intelligence department last two weeks known as the Crack Squad.
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Sokoto: INEC replaces electoral officers in LG areas
All electoral officers in the twenty-three local government areas of Sokoto State have been replaced by INEC to ensure transparency in the conduct of re-run governorship election in the state.
The Chairman of the INEC, Professor Maurice Iwu stated this at a stakeholder’s forum in Sokoto.
The INEC Chairman explained that twenty three Directors from the Headquarters had been posted to Sokoto to assist in monitoring the election across the State.
Similarly all sensitive materials have been brought to Sokoto in the presence of all political parties.
The Chairman therefore urged the political parties to nominate their agents so as to be part of the electoral management process.
NHRC wants FG to explore channels to protect Nigerians in S.Africa
The National Human Right Commission wants the Federal Government to explore all diplomatic channels to protect the live and properties of Nigerians in South Africa.
Executive Secretary of the Commission, Mrs. Kehinde Ajoni who state this while addressing newsmen in Abuja, pointed out that the attack on Nigerians in South Africa was a violation of rights to movement and residence as contained in the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.
Mrs. Ajoni explained that the Nigerian Missions abroad should rise up to the challenge of protecting the interest of Nigerians in those countries.
Mrs. Ajoni described the attack on blacks abroad as a global issue which must be addressed by governments all over the world.
Correspondent reports that the National Human Rights Commission is also making moves to send signals to the South Africa Human rights institution to intervene on its citizens’ phobia for foreigners.
Police: Mark advocates for adequate equipment
Senate President David Mark has made a case for adequate equipment for the police.
Senator Mark who spoke when the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Mr. Parry Osayande visited him advised the police to look into the guideline for recruitment to remove questionable characters.
The senate President stated that the bills on police Act aimed at uplifting the image and welfare of the officers.
The Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Parry Osayande announced that new guideline had been fashioned out on the promotion of members of the force.
NGO launches policy on gender education
A Nation Policy on Gender in Basic Education has been launched in Abuja.
The policy aims at eliminating gender disparities especially at the primary and secondary educational levels.
It will also ensure full and equal access to quality education for all children irrespective of their gender.
At the launch in Abuja, the Minister of state for Education Hajiya Aishatu Dukku, urged all stakeholders to ensure its successful implementation.
Hajiya Aishatu said the policy which was initiated in 2006 was approved by the 53rd session of the National Council on Education in response to the challenges of achieving gender equality in Education.
The Minister added that the policy was developed in the context of the girls education project of the Ministry in collaboration with UNICEF and the department of International Development, DFID.
Eminent Nigerians call for unity from Yorubas
Eminent Nigerian leaders have called for the promotion of unity among the Yoruba which is a veritable legacy left by the late Yoruba leader, Pa Abraham Adesanya.
They made the call at a joint valedictory legislative sitting held in Ibadan in honour of the frontline politician.
In a tribute delivered by the Osun State Speaker of the House of Assembly, Mr. Adejare Bello, the Speaker House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, said the only way to honour the late leader was to ensure the sustenance of his legacies.
Similarly, the Oyo State Governor, Chief Adebayo Alao Akala, described Pa Adesanya as a man who stood for the best values in democratic ideals.
Tributes were also paid by former Senate President, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, former Oyo State Governor, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, Ogun State Governor, Gbenga Daniel among others.
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Kwara State Govt buys off cassava to encourage farmers in production
The Kwara State Government has made available the sum of two hundred and fifty million Naira to buy off cassava to encourage farmers to continue massive production of the commodity.
Speaking on a Radio Programme in Ilorin, Governor Bukola Saraki said the purchase of the cassava was to ensure that farmers did not suffer loss due to poor returns.
The Governor accused some flour mills of failing to implement the policy of ten percent usage of cassava flour in the production of bread.
He therefore appealed to the Federal Government to ensure the enforcement of the policy on the use of cassava flour in bread making.
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Gov Ebonyi promises to construct road leading to Radio Nigeria Unity FM
Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State has promised to construct the Amike – Aba road leading to Radio Nigeria Unity FM, Abakaliki.
He made the promise when the Zonal Director, Radio Nigeria Enugu Zonal Station, Mr. Ralph Effiong and the Management of Unity FM, Abakaliki paid him a courtesy call.
The Governor directed the State Ministry of Works and Transport to ascertain the cost of the project, which he noted would provide access road to the people of the area.
Chief Elechi who commended the performance of Unity FM said effort was being made to reposition the State Radio Station.
The Zonal Director, Mr. Ralph Effiong, commended the State Government for extending pipe borne water to Amike–Aba community, which would also serve Unity FM, Abakaliki.
Contributing, the General Manager, Unity FM Abakaliki, Mr. Barikumo Adou assured the Governor that the station would maintain professionalism while mobilizing the people of the state to support his administration.
Taraba: PDP guber candidate goes to Yola court to claim his mandate
The Taraba State PDP Governorship candidate in the last election, Mr. Danladi Baido who was barred from contesting has gone to the Yola High Court to claim his mandate.
The case was filed at the Yola High Court by a senior advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Niyi Akintola in compliance with the appeal Tribunal, Jos that the process should start from the Lower Court.
Mr. Baido won the PDP ticket for Taraba State, went through all screening processes and was barred at the last minute.
In the same vein, the campaign organization of Mr. Baido has described as illegal and unconstitutional his purported suspension from the Party by the PDP leadership.
The spokesman of the Organization, Mallam Razaq Umar, said in Yola that the action was an attempt to blackmail the candidate because of his move to reclaim his mandate.
Ebonyi: 38 new cases of Guinea worm discovered in Ezza North LGA
Thirty-eight new cases of Guinea Worm have been discovered in Ezza West Development Centre of Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The co-ordinator of the Development Centre, Dr Nora Alo made this known at the end of the first phase of a free mobile Health Clinic she introduced in the area.
She enumerated other major health problems discovered during the exercise to include twenty cases of Vesico Vaginal Fistula, VVF, fifty-eight persons with various eye disorders and two cases of breast cancer.
Dr Alo assured that the free mobile Clinic would be carried out quarterly to reduce people’s patronage of medical quacks as there were no functional government hospitals in the Area.
Correspondent quotes the coordinator as saying that over one-point-five million Naira was provided for the exercise, during which other minor health cases were handled.
Kwara: Chairman Power & Steel reveals missing power stations
The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Power and Steel, Mr. Ndudi Elumelu has revealed that three out of the four Power Stations allotted to Kwara State by the Federal Government were missing.
Mr. Elumelu made this known when the Committee paid a courtesy call on Governor Bukola Saraki at Government House, Ilorin.
He lamented that only one of the four sub-transmission Stations allotted to the State was under construction.
Mr. Elumelu frowned at the attitude of the contractors who were yet to commence work after they had been mobilised.
In a remark, Governor Bukola Saraki blamed the epileptic power supply in the Country on the attitude of some greedy Nigerians.
The Governor, who said he personally facilitated the impressive level of work at Ganmo sub-transmission Station, assured the Federal Government of continued support from the State Government to revive the Power Sector.
Former FCT Minister wants NASS to give issue of establishing Land Allocation C’ttee
Former Minister of the Federal capital Territory, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai wants the National Assembly to give the issue of establishing a Land Allocation Committee a priority in the proposed Constitution Review.
He stated this when he made his second appearance before the Senate Committee on FCT Public Hearing on the allocation, revocation and concession of properties in the Territory.
Participants on public procurement to establish National Council for procurement
Participants in a retreat on public procurement have proposed the establishment of a National Council for procurement to facilitate the implementation of the 2008 Budget.
In a communiqué, the participants said such a council when established, would ensure strict compliance to the Fiscal Responsibility and Public Procurement Acts.
The event was organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Procurement, the Bureau of Public Procurement and the World Bank.
The Communiqué, which was read by the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Procurement, Mr. Bernard Udoh stated that strict adherence to the proposals would enable public procurement practice to meet up with International Standards.
Mr. Udoh also suggested a systematic training of Procurement and Accounting Officers by the Bureau of Public Procurement, also known as Due Process.
The theme of the three-day retreat was “Establishing a Culture of Due Process in Procurement: an Imperative for Responsible Leadership, Good Governance and National Prosperity”.
Correspondent reports that the retreat attracted the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Dimeji Banknote, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Chibuike Amechi, representatives of the International Law Institute United States of America among other stakeholders.
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Minister calls on Nigerians to tolerate one another in the interest of peace
The Minister of State, Air Transportation, Mr. Felix Hassan Hyat has called on Nigerians to always tolerate one another in the interest of peace and harmony.
The Minister made the call at Kwoi, Jabba Local Government Area of Kaduna State during a reception organised by the Paramount Ruler of Ham, Dr. Danladi Gyet Maude in honour of some illustration sons and daughters of Ham.
According to Mr. Hyat, honours should be accorded to people based on their contributions to humanity and not on the basis of material wealth.
The Air transport Minister, also re-assured Nigerians of the readiness of his ministry to re-position the aviation sector by making the nation’s airspace safe for flight.
Mr. Hyat expressed dismay over recent reports in the media that misquoted him as blaming the Ministry’s Parastatals for the missing Beechcraft plane 1900D aircraft.
Earlier in his speech, the traditional head of Ham in Jabba Local Government Area Dr. Danladi Gyet Maude told political office holders to always have the interest of the electorate in mind. According to Dr. Maude; leadership was about service to humanity.
Kingibe imbibe States & LGs in Niger Delta to make judicious use of funds
The Secretary to the Federal Government of Nigeria Alhaji Baba Gana Kingibe wants States and Local Governments in the Niger Delta to make judicious use of funds accruing to them from the federation account so as to achieve a commensurate level of development in the region.
Alhaji Kingibe stated this at the opening of a four-day development conference organised by the NDDC in partnership with the Nigeria Bar Association in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
He said more meaningful development of the region could be realised if the states and Local Governments take advantage of the derivation funds available to them and change the fortunes of their people.
Alhaji Kingibe assured that when the development master plan for the region was fully implemented, it would put to rest the agitations in the area.
Correspondent reports that the conference would feature paper presentation by eminent Nigerians on the best ways to address the Niger Delta Question.
FRSC to conduct promotion exams twice yearly
Henceforth, promotion examinations for officers and men of the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC will be conducted twice yearly in the months of April and October.
The Corps Marshal of the Commission Mr. Osita Chidoka announced this in Abuja while decorating ten out of the two hundred and forty successful candidates from the recently conducted promotion examinations for various ranks in the officer’s cadre.
According to the Corps Marshal, the introduction of examinations was not aimed at stagnating officers and marshals, but rather to spur the potential in every staff.
Mr. Chidoka also said that preparations had been concluded for promotion examination for junior officers of the commission later in the month at the FRSC Academy in Jos, Plateau State.
One of the newly decorated officers, Corps Commander Kabir Ademola Lawal assured the Corps Marshal that he would offer the best of his service for the sustainable growth of the commission.
Another beneficiary of the decoration exercise and the Zonal Head of operations at the Kaduna Zonal Command, Mr. Jonas Agwu expressed his feelings about the format of promotion exercise in FRSC.
The Officers’ promotion examination which is the first of its kind since the establishment of the FRSC is in line with its quest to improve the mental alertness of its staff.
Nigeria Police to establish resource centres
The Nigeria Police is to establish resource centres in all the Commands across the country to train its officers and men on Information Technology.
Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mike Okiro, who announced this in Abuja during the inauguration of computer training workshop for Force Headquarters Personnel, stated that the effort was geared towards improving the quality of service delivery in the Nigeria Police.
Mr. Okiro explained that two thousand Police officers would be trained within the next two months.
The Inspector General of Police had earlier paraded seven armed robbery suspects who specialise in snatching cars from members of the public in the eastern part of the country.
Mr. Okiro promoted one sergeant Buinda Kasala of the Taraba State Command, whose hand was chopped off by robbers to the rank of inspector.
Cross River State Govt spends about N590m on road maintenance
The Cross River State Government says about five hundred and ninety million naira has been spent on road construction and repairs of federal roads within the state.
The state commissioner for information Doctor Sylvia Atsu explained that before the repairs on some federal roads, travelling within and from the state to other parts of the country had been a nightmare.
Doctor Atsu said some of the roads affected include Calabar-ltu, Calabar-lkom, lkom-Ogoja, Ogoja-Obudu and Okuni Nsofang-Okoroba roads.
In a related development the commissioner re-affirmed the readiness of the state government to continue to support the state Bebi Airstrip with the necessary logistics to enable it to up-grade and maintain facilities.
Bauchi State Govt requires about N1b to address acute water shortage
The Bauchi State Government says it requires about one billion Naira to address the acute water shortage in Bauchi metropolis and its environs.
This forms part of the recommendations of the high powered Committee set up by the government last January to look into the problem of water supply in the State Capital.
Submitting the report to the State Government, the Chairman of the Committee Dr. Sake Toro said based on World Health Organisations reports; Bauchi State required about forty million gallons of water per day.
He however, expressed regret that the present supply of six million gallons of water per day fell far short of public demand and suggested a short term intervention to increase supply to about thirteen million gallons per day.
Responding, Governor Isa Yuguda pledged to retain and convert the Committee into an ad-hoc team that would supervise the implementation of the recommendations.
Correspondent, reports that due to acute water shortage, vendors have increased their price by fifty percent particularly in the surrounding communities where water pipes are yet to be laid.
NPC to research into problems facing the Energy, transport & Agric sector
A National Research that would proffer solutions to the Energy, transport, textile and Agricultural challenges facing the country is being organised by the National Productivity Centre.
The Director General of the Centre Dr. Paul Bilya made this known while answering questions on Eagle square, Radio Nigeria public accountability programme.
Dr. Bilya said the research which would be in collaboration with other relevant institutions was aimed at finding practical remedies to problems that have hindered Nigeria from attaining its developmental goals.
Dr. Bilya stressed the need for Nigerians to contribute to the success of the vision of the present administration as the road map for the country to achieve greatness.
Akwa Ibom State Govt inaugurates 10 man C’ttee for Taxi Scheme
A ten man Committee for the launching of Ibom City Taxi Scheme has been inaugurated by the Akwa Ibom State Government.
Inaugurating the Committee at Government House, Uyo, the state Governor Chief Godswill Akpabio said that the scheme was to alleviate poverty among the people of the state.
Chief Akpabios said that in few years’ time, the City of Uyo would be flooded with taxis stressing that the beneficiaries of the scheme would pay back at a subsidized rate without interest.
He said that the launching of the Taxi Scheme would form part of activities to mark the first anniversary of his administrating to enable the people to move around in comfort.
Responding, the Chairman of the Committee and Commissioner for Economic Development Dr. Chris Ekong pledged the commitment of his members to ensure the success of the scheme.
The Committee which has Mr. Akpan Itang as its Secretary has two weeks to submit its report to the state government.
Correspondent reports that the Committee's terms of reference were among other things, to advise the state government on how to zone urban cities particularly Uyo into taxi and bus drops to ensure uniform fares and smooth operation.
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Senate Public Hearing on property allocation/demolition to end this week
The Senate’s Public Hearing on the allocation, revocation and demolition of properties in the Federal Capital Territory is expected to end this week.
In this report National Assembly Correspondent Stanley Nwosu, who is covering the Public Hearing says the climax of the probe will be the appearance of the former FCT Minister, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai to defend series of allegations against him.
Over 300 trade partners benefit from MTN children scholarship
MTN Nigeria has awarded Scholarship to the children of over three hundred trade partners who have contributed significantly towards optimum business performance of the company in 2007.
Presenting the awards at the 2008 edition of the MTN Drummer Awards in Lagos, the MTN Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Ahmad Farouk, said his Organisation would continue to fulfil its social responsibility to customers.
Correspondent, reports that several MTN subscribers received cars and other valuable gifts for their patronage.
Nigeria Govt inaugurates C’ttee on vision 2020
The National Council and the National Steering Committee on Nigeria Vision 2020 are to be inaugurated in Abuja.
The 27-member Council has the President as chairman while the Vice President is Vice Chairman.
Other members are the Senate President, the Speaker, House of Representatives, some State Governors and key figure in the public and private sector.
Seventy-one members make up the National Steering Committee with the Minister of National Planning Commission, Senator Sanusi Daggash as chairman.
To serve as Secretary is Professor Sylvester Monye who is also the Secretary National Planning Commission.
A Government statement in Abuja advised all the members and invited guests to be seated by ten o’clock in the morning in the Council Chambers, State House, Abuja for the inauguration.
WIN commences advocacy for gender equality
Women in Nigeria started the advocacy for gender equality after the Beijing Conference for Action about thirteen years ago.
This was after the government committed itself to increasing the participation of women at various levels of decision making process to thirty percent; otherwise known as the Affirmative Action.
In this special report, Correspondent highlights the significance of Affirmative Action as a measure for ensuring gender parity and development in Nigeria.
Gombe: Over 100 students hospitalized after a meal
Over one hundred students of the Government Girls Secondary School Doma in Gombe State have been hospitalized after a meal of beans.
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Dr. Garba Saidu, told Radio Nigeria in Gombe that the students were rushed to the State Specialist Hospital Gombe following excessive vomiting, stomach pain and diahiarra after the meal.
He explained that so far over one hundred of the students have been treated and discharged while those in critical condition were still on admission.
The Permanent Secretary explained that State Government had directed all Boarding Schools to stop cooking the beans until further notice.
He said officials of the Ministry of Health had already taken samples of the beans for further investigation by NAFDAC.
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Nigeria’s Ambassador to UK promises to strive for Nigeria’s good image
Nigeria’s new Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Dr. Dalhatu Tafida has promised to work hard to create a better image of Nigeria.
Dr Tafida made the promise in Abuja at a farewell party organised in his honour by the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Aviation, Captain Mustapha Iyal.
Dr. Tafida also promised to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to facilitate the return of ill-gotten wealth stocked in banks in the United Kingdom.
In his remarks, the immediate past Senate President Ken Nnamani described dr. Tafida as man who used his intelligence and maturity to stabilise the senate from 1999 to 2007.
Also speaking, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari said Dr Tafida was a reliable leader who fostered harmony between the senate and the House of Representatives.
Many dignitaries including the wife of Dr. Tafida, past members of the National Assembly and Vice Presidential candidate of the Action Congress in the last election, Senator Ben Obi attended the party.
Osun: University students appeal to FG for adequate financial support
The students o the Faculty of Law Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, Osun state have appealed to the Federal Government to provide adequate financial and logistic support to enable them to realise most of their target.
The President of the Liberation Chambers of the law faculty, Mr. Obamuroh Tolu made the appeal when he visited the Minister of Education, D. Igwe Aja-Nwachukwu in Abuja.
Responding, the Minister assured them of government’s willingness to boost education in the country.
Dr. Nwachukwu told the students that their request would eb looked into.
The organisation was established in 1991 and named after the popular liberation movement in South Africa, Liberation Chambers”.
Adamawa: INEC fixes last Saturday of April for re-run Guber election
The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed the last Saturday of this month for the re-run governorship election in Adamawa State.
A statement signed by the National Electoral Commissioner in-charge of Information and Publicity, Mr. Philip Umeadi Junior, enjoined all the political parties presenting candidates for the election to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law during their campaigns.
INEC had earlier fixed this Saturday for the re-run election in Adamawa State, but later postponed it because of an interim injunction by a Katsina High Court.
Health Minister wants state and LGs to be more responsive
Health Minister, Alhaji Hassan Lawan, wants State and Local Governments to be more responsive to their constitutional responsibilities.
The Minister told the inaugural meeting of the multi-sectoral partnership for maternal new born and child Health in Abuja that if the funds being collected by the State and Local Governments monthly were properly utilized Nigerians would have been better off. Alhaji Lawan expressed concern that State and Local Government rush to the Federal Government at the least outbreak of diseases for assistance.
He wondered where the budgetary allocations to health annually at the Local and State level is spent.
That was the Minister of Health, Dr. Lawan at the inaugural meting of the multi-sectoral partnership for maternal new born and child health in Abuja.
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Anambra: Traders demand passage of State Appropriation Bill
Traders at Onitsha Relief Market staged a peaceful demonstration in Awka, demanding the passage of this year’s Anambra State Appropriation Bill.
The traders numbering about five hundred besieged the House of Assembly with placards some of which read, release the budget to enable the governor to continue with his programmes.
Although no principal officer addressed the traders, the gate leading to the Assembly was locked amidst tight security.
The speaker of the House Chief Anayo Nnebe in a statement said the House was determined to approve a realistic budget for the state.
He noted that the House would always remain peaceful, law abiding and committed to its constitutional role of making quality laws for the benefit of the people of the State.
Adamawa: DG NOA happy over preparations for re-run Guber poll
The Director General of the National Orientation Agency, Alhaji Idi Farouk has expressed satisfaction with preparations being made in Adamawa State for this Saturday’s re-run governorship election.
At a news conference in Yola, Alhaji Idi warned politicians to avoid acts that could affect the peaceful conduct of the election.
He also appealed to the electorate to conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the exercise.
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Adegbite calls on Nigerians to fight corruption
The Secretary General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Dr Abdullateef Adegbite has stressed the need for Nigeria to take a stand on the fight against corruption if the country must realise her dream of becoming one of the world’s biggest economies by 2020.
Dr Adegbite made the remark in Abeokuta during an interactive session with newsmen.
He emphasised that unless concrete steps were to address the social menace, every gainful step towards that dream would be wasted.
The Islamic Leader said Nigeria rather was in dire need of leaders whose vision would advance the country rather than the quest for selfish gains.
Correspondent reports that the Islamic Cleric described the Yar’Adua administration’s posture on the rule of law as a sincere one.
Kebbi Govt. warns councils against loans without approval
The Kebbi State Government has warned local government councils against securing bank loans without its approval.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Alhaji Salihu Aliero gave the warning in Birnin-Kebbi at a meeting with newly elected local government chairmen.
Alhaji Salihu said Governor Sa’id Dakingari was not happy that previous local government councils left behind unpaid bank loans of over three hundred million Naira.
He Said the State Government had approved the setting up of a committee to verify the loans of over three hundred million Naira.
He said the State Government had approved the setting up of a committee to verify the loans with the aim of setting them.
The Governor also approved one billion Naira to be disbursed to the local governments for the execution of special projects on health and education.
Meanwhile, about two three billion Naira was shared among the local governments in the state as statutory allocation for last month.
BORNO: Bakers call off strike
Bakers of bread in Borno State have called off their strike with an increase of twenty Naira on each size of loaf.
The Publicity Secretary of the bakers’ union, Malam Lawan Gashua, told newsmen in Maiduguri that the increase was to meet up the cost of production.
He however expressed fears that production might not be sustained for long despite the increase in prices, because of the continuous increase in the prices of production input.
The Secretary denied that the bakers had reduced the quality of the loaves, but admitted that they had cut productionby sixty percent to maintain continuous supply until the situation was normalised.
Malam Lawan Gashua explained that cost of production had been on the increase and appealed to the Federal Government to appreciate their predicament and control the general prices of foodstuffs.