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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230508

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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130508

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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080508

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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060508

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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220408

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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110408

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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090408

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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020408

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.

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270308

Diabetes /hypertension help group selects14 villages for campaign

Fourteen Villages in the Federal Capital Territory have been selected by the diabetes and hypertension help society for their sensitisation campaigns this year.

The National Coordinator of the society Miss Adama Odefa made this known during the markets campaign of the society held at Garki model market Abuja.

She said the campaign was aimed at getting the market men and women to have access to the society’s free blood sugar tests as well as its pressure and counselling services.

Miss Adama stated that already the society have covered four out of the fourteen villages.

She said mandate of the society is to manage and prevent diabetes as well as offer free counselling services to Nigerians.

Speaking earlier the Director of the National Orientation Agency in the FCT, Mr. Richard Tohee represented by the Head of Mobilization of the Agency Mr. Elisha Iyakwari said they were collaborating with the society in raising public awareness about the danger of hypertension.

                                                                                                         
Correspondent reports that one thousand five hundred people have so far benefited from the activities of the society this year.

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260308

University of Agriculture Umudike re-opens on Monday

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike will re-open on Monday, March 31, 2008 for continuation of First Semester of the 2007/2008 Academic session.

A statement by the University’s Registrar, Dr B.N. Adeniji said all old and new students must obtain Bank Drafts for the approved student charges before arriving at the University.

All Students are required to bring along two letters of undertaking, one signed by the Student and the other by the student’s parent or guardian pledging to abide by the University’s Matriculation Oath and be of good behaviour, law-abiding and show respect for constituted authority.

Details of other conditions which all students must meet before arriving at the Campus are as published in the Daily Sun Newspapers of Wednesday, March 26, 2008.

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130308

Governor decries slow pace of development in Northern Nigeria
The slow pace of development in the Northern part of the country should be taken as a challenge by the present state governor in the area.

Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi State made the remark while reacting to a lecture by General Theophilus Danjuma in which he lamented the under-development of the North.

In a statement, the Governor said the legacies left behind by the late Premier of the Northern Region, Sir Ahmadu Bello must be maintained, while the well-being of the masses ought to be given priority.

Alhaji Isa Yuguda urged leaders from the area to reflect on the situation and resolve to redress it urgently.

Ondo Govt agrees to pay consolidated salary structure to ASUU

The Ondo State Government has agreed to pay the consolidated salary structure to ASUU members in Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, this month.

The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Bakkita Bello stated this while receiving the ASUU officials who came to solicit for the lawmaker’s assistance, in Akure.

ASUU members of the university last week embarked on strike to press for the implementation of their salary structure.

The Speaker who pleaded with ASUU to call off the strike, asked for three months negotiation period to enable the government effect payment of the arrears from January 2007.

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110308

Measures to stop gas flaring indefinitely

Measures are being taken to announce a definite date to stop gas flaring in the country.
On the occasion of the 2008 Commonwealth Day celebration in Abuja, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in a message said it was part of efforts to tackle the problems of climatic change and global warming.

Correspondent reports that the celebration has its theme, “the environment-our future”.

Film Producers to promote nation’s heritage in their productions- Sultan

Film Producers have been advised to promote value re-orientation and preservation of the nation’s heritage in their productions.

The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar gave the advice in a message to the opening of the 5th African Film and Television Programmes in Abuja.

Plateau: Tenure of LG Chairmen/Councillors reduces from 3-2 years

Tenure of Local Government chairman and councillors in Plateau state has been reduced from three years to two years.

In a motion by the House of Assembly Majority Leader, Joseph Bukar members said the action would ensure closer governance at the grass root level.

The House subsequently extended the tenure of the outgoing Transition committee Chairmen and   members by one month.
The Transition chairmen are to hold office pending the swearing him of election chairmen, after this Saturday’s local government elections.

Yobe: 100 science teachers undergo training in core subjects

One hundred Science Teachers from Yobe State are undergoing one month training in core subjects at the National Mathematical Centre, Abuja.

  The subjects are mathematics, biology, chemistry and physics.
The State Governor, Alhaji Mamman at the opening of the course in Abuja said the move was part of efforts to improve the teaching and learning of Science subjects.

Governor Ali said the State has been performing poorly in WAEC and NECO examinations in those subjects.

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100308

Kano: Collapsed Industries Bane of Infrastructural Decay
           
The collapse of industries in the country has been blamed on the decay of infrastructures.

The Kano State Commissioner for Commerce and Industries, Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Yakasai told Radio Nigeria that with improved power supply, over eighty percent of the challenges facing the country’s industrial sector would be overcome.

Alhaji Yakasai also attributed the collapse of the sector to corruption and in consistent policies.

According to the Commissioner, the Kano State Government had organised a stakeholder’s summit to address the issue of collapsed industries in the State with a view to proffering a way forward.           

Alhaji Ibrahim Yakasai said the Kano State Government was constructing Roads, Independent Power Projects and improved water supply at the Sharada and Bampai Industrial Estates.

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070308

RATTAWU says Insurance re-capitalisation will bring sanity

The National President of RATTAWU, Comrade Abdulhamid Dembos says the re-capitalisation in the Insurance sector will bring sanity in insurance companies in the country.

Comrade Dembos was speaking, when the union visited the National Insurance Commission, NAICOM headquarters in Abuja.

According to him, the Union leaders were in the commission headquarters to solicit support for next month’s 3rd Quadrennial delegate’s conference tagged “Abuja 2008”.
He commended NAICOM for the peaceful resolution of the problems in NICON.

Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner, Technical in the commission, Mr Mohammed Hussaine assured the union of support and stressed that the commission was working to eliminate fake insurance companies in the country.

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060308

Kaduna: Barracks Rehabilitation C’ttee to address Air Force Base problems

An appeal has gone to the Presidential Committee on Barracks Rehabilitation to urgently address the water shortage faced by the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna.

The Air Officer Commanding, Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Osita Obierika, made the appeal when the Chairman, Presidential Committee on Barrack Rehabilitation, Alhaji Sani Gidado inspected rehabilitated Barrack Projects located in Kaduna.

Air Vice Marshal Obierika expressed concern that the current water shortage facing the Air Force Base needed an urgent attention.
Air Officer Commanding commended the Committee for the level of rehabilitation work already carried out.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Presidential committee on Barrack Rehabilitation, Alhaji Sani Gidado promised to ensure that bore holes were sunk at strategic points within the base.

Alhaji Gidado told the Air Officer Command, that the Committee was in Kaduna to inspect the progress of work in the various military formations across the State.

The Committee visited the Nigeria Air Force Base, Kaduna, the Nigeria Army Recruitment Depot, Zaria and the Command and Staff College, Jaji where most of the rehabilitated work have been completed and handed over to the Committee.

Plateau Govt threatens to sack civil servant who engaged in partisan politics

The Plateau State Government has threatened to sack Civil Servants who engaged in partisan politics from January 1999 to date.

The threat was contained in a circular issued by the Head of Civil Service, Dr Godfrey Mamzhi.

The circular directed Ministries, Parastatals and Agencies to forward names of such workers to the office of the Head of Service for ne3cessary action.

Reacting to the circular, the Action Congress members in the State House of Assembly said government’s position was a violation of democratic tenets.

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040308

Academy pledges support to technological development of the country

The Nigerian Academy of Sciences has pledged meaningful contribution to the technological development of the country.

The President of the academy, Mr. David Okali made the pledge in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

He said the academy would collaborate with the ministry of Science and Technology on the way forward for the technological advancement of the country.

Mr. Okali observed that Nigeria's slow progress technologically was due to the poor application of science in development.

The president said the academy was working on a blue-print that would guide the government in efforts towards technology acquisition and application.

Minister to support proper management of labour migration

The Minister of Labour and Productivity Dr. Hassan Lawal says his Ministry’s will support the proper Management of Labour Migration related issues in the Country.

Dr. Hassan made the pledged when the international organisation for Migration led by the Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Mr. Tommaso Decataldo paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja.     

 He stressed the need for countries within the West-African sub-region and Europe to relax their migration laws to enable people to travel through their countries, provided such trips were backed with relevant travelling documents.

Dr. Lawal promised to collaborate with the organisation in relevant areas of its operation’s that concerned Labour Migration to ensure that it succeeded in its assignment in the country.

Responding, the Chief of Mission, International Organisation for Migration, Mr Tommaso Decataldo said the aim and objectives of the project were to develop and establish regional programmes on Labour Migration.

Mr. Decataldo said the project was at its first phase as approved by the European Commission and Co-financed by the Italian Government for Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Libya and Italy.

Correspondent reports that the International organisation for Migration Project is to give Financial and Technical assistance to developing countries in the field of Migration and Assylum.

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030308

Land clash claims 12 people in Kenya

At least twelve people have been killed in land clashed in Western Kenya.
Reports say ten houses were razed to the ground and some people burnt to death, while others were shot dead.
It is not certain if the overnight clashes are linked to election violence which killed about one thousand five hundred people this year.
The land dispute between the rival Sabaot and Soi Kalenjiri communities has lasted for more than a year.
Land disputes are one of the issues to be tackled as talks between the government and opposition were to resume in the capital, Nairobi.

NBC calls on Nigeria’s neighbours to embrace dialogue in resolving disputes

The National Boundary Commission has called on Nigeria’s neighbours to embrace dialogue in resolving their disputes with Nigeria.

The Director General of the Commission, Alhaji Sadiq Marafa Diggi in interview with Radio Nigeria in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State commended Niger Republic for her brotherly approach to the boundary dispute between her and Nigeria.
           
Alhaji Diggi said negotiations for the resolution of the dispute which started in 1994 had so far been very cordial.
He also commended the Kebbi State Government for the rapid development being experienced in the State.
           
Alhaji Diggi urged State Governors to extend the dividends of democracy to their subjects.

PDP: Alh.  Adamu assures credible leaders emerge at party’s convention

The Secretary Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu says all measures have been put in place to ensure that credible leaders emerge at the party’s convention.

He stated this in Keffi, Nasarawa State while speaking with newsmen on the political situation in the country.

Alhaji Adamu acknowledged that the party had made some mistakes in the past but promised to address them.
           
On the cancellation of some elections in PDP controlled states by some election tribunals, Alhaji Adamu expressed the belief that the party will in back the people’s mandate.
           
Alhaji Adamu reiterated the party’s commitment to always abide by the judgement of the election tribunals and enjoined other political parties to follow suit.

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020208

Umez-Eronini expresses concern over unemployed graduates in Imo /Abia States

The Commissioner representing Imo and Abia States in the Federal Civil Service Commission, Chief Ijeoma Umez-Eronini wants the two states to give priority to the acquisition of practical skills for self employment, to tackle the high rate of graduate unemployment.

Chief Umez-Eronini made the call when she paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Abia state Chief Theodore Orji in Umuahia.

She said employment into the Federal Civil Service was distributed equitably among all the states but said the problem with Abia and Imo states was the high turnout of qualified graduates.

Responding Chief Orji urged the Commissioner to assist the two States by giving information promptly on the available vacancies in the Federal Civil Service.
Chief Orji, the readiness of the administration to support the commissioner in her assignment.

President NSE wants coal to be included in National Energy Masterplan

The President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE, Alhaji Kashimi Ali wants coal to be included in the National Energy Masterplan.

Alhaji Ali made the call in Abuja when the FRSC Central Business District Commander paid him a courtesy visit.

The NSE President, said coal had played a key role not only in the provision of electricity but also as an essential fuel for steel and cement production and other industrial activities.

Alhaji Ali, who also the Director FCT Water Board assured the FRSC, of the readiness of NSE to assist in the maintenance of the nations roads.
Responding, the FRSC Unit Commander, Mr Sunny Oghene-Karo commended the effort of the NSE to sanitise the engineering profession.

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310108

Onaiyekan calls for Govt support in education of Nigerian children

The Arch Bishop of Abuja, Most Reverend John Onaiyekan has appealed to governments at all levels to support efforts of the Church in educating Nigerian children.

Bishop Onaiyekan was speaking at a funding raising dinner for the building of secondary schools in Abuja to mark the Episcopal silver Jubilee.

The Cleric stressed that for Nigeria to attain required national Development; more efforts must be put in transforming the education sector.
           
Also speaking, the deputy Governor of Plateau State, Mrs Pauline Tallen, described education as the key to national development and urged Nigerians to support the project.

Among those who attended the dinner were the Governor of the Central Bank, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, representatives of Governors of Nassarawa and Kaduna States as well as the Director General of NAFDAC, Professor Dora Akunyili.

An NGO raises alarm over threat of autism

A  Non-governmental Organisation, OLG Health Foundation and Autism Centre has drawn National attention to the threat of autism and other related childhood disabilities in the Country.

To this end, the Organisation is to launch what it called a Defeat Autism in Nigeria project in collaboration with other Autism Advocacy Groups.     

The Chief Executive Officer of the body, Dr. Doris Izuwah, told Ngwuoke in Abuja that the project would raise public awareness on Autism and highlight the benefits of its early intervention.

Dr Izuwah described autism as a disability that affects a child in the areas of communication, language, social interaction, imitative play and behavioural problems.

She advised parents whose children present the symptoms to seek early medical intervention instead of attributing them to spiritual problems.

FCT: Minister of state bans street trading

Street trading around major markets in the Federal Capital Territory has been banned.

The FCT Minister of State, Mr James Akpanudoedehe announced this at the commencement of construction work on an administrative block worth four hundred million naira at Utako Market.

According to Mr Akpanudoedehe additional shops will be provided to accommodate traders in various markets.

 In an address on the occasion, the Chairman, Abuja Municipal Area Council, AMAC, Mr Bitrus Jisalo said the project was part of efforts to sanitize markets in the area.
The administrative block will on completion have four hundred locked-up shops and other facilities.

PLATEAU: Civil servants suspend one month strike

Civil Servants in Plateau State have suspended their one month old strike.
After an all-night meeting between the state government and the NLC leadership, the two parties agreed that all labour leaders whose were sacked as a result of the strike would be recalled.

In addition, the fifteen per cent salary increase which was the bone of contention would be implemented within four weeks.

Ethiopian Prime Minister calls for commitment to NEPAD

Funding of NEPAD Secretariat and programmes was topmost on the discussions by heads of state and govt of NEPAD implementation committee yesterday in Addis Ababa. 

Statistics show that only 3.9 million dollars was contributed by Africa as against an average of 6-million dollars required annually for effective running of the secretariat. 
South Africa made the highest donation of one mullion dollars to the fund. 

Failure of many African countries to contribute a minimum of 100,000 dollars yearly to NEPAD has adversely affected the running of the organisation.
 The chairperson of the NEPAD implementation committee and prime Minster of Ethiopia Melez Zenawi appealed to member nations to make available their contributions to make the organisation effective.

Israel pledges support to Nigeria on Agriculture / water dev

Israel had pledged more support to Nigeria in the area of Agriculture and Water resources development.

The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Moshe Ram said in Abuja when he visited the Director-General of Nigeria Meteorological Agency, Dr Anthony Anuforom that it was important for his country to use its technical knowledge in assisting Nigeria.
                  
Earlier, the Director-General of Nigeria Meteorological Agency, Dr Anuforom said the Agency had benefited immensely from Israel especially in the area of training.
Dr Anuforom however called for assistance in the area of Hydrometeorology.
           
That was the Director-General, Nigeria Meteorological Agency, Dr Anthony Anuforom when he received the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Moshe Ram.

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300108

KWARA: Autonomy of LG will discourage FG’s interference - Mohammed Sanusi
Full autonomy of Local Government System will discourage unnecessary political interference from State and Federal Government.

So says the Boss of Ilorin West Local Government area of Kwara State, Mohammed Sanusi.
He made the call while presenting a paper at a two day workshop organized by the Campaign for democracy at Ilorin West Local Government Secretariat.

The Chairman said the measure would make it more efficient and productive.
He expressed the hope that the workshop would assist local government staff in budget preparation and implementation.

Earlier the president, campaign for Democracy, Joe Odumakin said the workshop was organized to sensitize council leaders on the need to always consider the interest of the people in their activities.

Luka expresses peaceful resolution of the N/Delta crisis  

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Luka Yusuf has expressed confidence that, the Niger Delta crisis would soon be resolved peacefully.

Lt. General Yusuf gave the assurance, when he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers state, at Government house Port Harcourt. General Yusuf, who described the Niger Delta crisis as an ordinary conflict, said the entire problem would soon be over.

He assured the Governor of the Nigerian Army s commitments to continue to support his efforts of ensuring a lasting peace in the state.

Responding, Governor ROTIMI Amaechi, thank the Nigerian ARMY in restoring peace to the state.
 The Governor expressed confidence that, with the present level by the joint task force, JTF, before June, lasting, peace would be restored in the state.
Correspondent in Port Harcourt, report that , the Chief of Army staff who is on tour of Army formations, under 82 Division Enugu, later addressed a detachment of troops at the BORI CAMP Port Harcourt.

FCT: Police commences investigation into Gwamna’s assassination   

The FCT Police Command has commenced investigations into the assassination of the Kwali Area Council Chairman in the FCT, Mr Samuel Gwamna.

Mr Samuel Gwamna was killed by unknown gunmen on Tuesday on his way home from the office.

The FCT Commissioner of Police, Mr Haruna John told newsmen in Abuja that the Special Anti-Robbery Squad had been deployed to the area.

Mr John said the Police would ensure that the culprits were arrested.

At the time of this report, the driver and the orderly to the Late Chairman who were also shot by the assassins are in critical condition and are receiving medical attention.

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260108

Nigerian Journalists to focus on issues of good governance in the country

Nigerian Journalists have been advised to focus more on issues that will promote good governance in the country.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr Andy Ezeani, denied that the INEC boss admitted that the Commission was found wanting in the conduct of the 2007 election in Enugu State.

The statement emphasised that the INEC Chairman did not directly or by proxy speak with any journalist on the 2007 polls in Enugu State.

According to the statement INEC, should not be held responsible for internal political party disputes which threatened to hamper the polls in some states.

Lagelu-Akinyele Federal Constituency seat election comes up today

In Oyo State, all is now set for today’s bye-election for the Lagelu-Akinyele Federal Constituency seat.
The INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Chief Stephen Manya told newsmen in Ibadan that adhoc staff were not recruited for the exercise.

He explained that about six hundred INEC staff from Lagos, Osun and Ogun states had been deployed for the conduct of the bye-election.

Chief Manya noted that security agents had been mobilised to monitor the exercise to prevent any threat to peace and order.

The Akinyele-Lagelu Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the assassination of Chief Olusegun Oladimeji of PDP in September 2007.

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250108

BPE fulfils operating law in the payment of proceeds from privatization exercise

The Bureau of Public Enterprises, BPE, is confident to say that it has always fulfilled the requirements of its operating law in the payment of proceeds from privatization exercise.

In a Statement, the BPE said it had paid the total of one hundred and fourteen billion, five hundred and fifty million, three hundred and forty eight thousand naira as proceeds into designated Accounts between 2000 and 2007.

The designated Accounts were the privatization proceeds Account with the Central Bank of Nigeria or any other Account as directed by the Accountant-General of the Federation and the Ministry of Finance.

It adds that where the money was moved to and how it was channelled was at the instance of the Federal Government.

FCT: Immunisation begins in Bwari on Saturday

As the Immunization against Childhood Killer Diseases begins on Saturday, Chairman, Bwari Area Council, Isa Dara Bwari has called on those involved in the exercise not to fail the nation.
                    
Speaking at the flag –off of the exercise in Dakwa village, the Chairman said the Council had provided logistics and other materials needed for a successful exercise.

He urged parents to protect their children from untimely death by making them available for the immunization exercise.

 In a remark, the Head of Department, Health Services, Dr .Veronica Yamma said the Council had been divided into six zones for effective coverage.

Dr Yamma stated that apart from Children, pregnant women would also be immunized against tetanus.

NCC to establish Emergency Communication Centres in 36 states

Emergency Communication Centres are to be established in the thirty- six States of the Federation.

The Executive Commissioner of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Mr. Steven Bello stated this in Lagos at a Stakeholders forum with Telecommunication Operators on Emergency Communication System.

Correspondent reports that the meeting provided a platform for the NCC and Service providers to discuss the technical implications and requirements for the project.
           

Minister charges Nigerians to suggest best options for running Unity Colleges

Nigerians are to be given the opportunity to suggest the best options for running Unity Colleges.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Igwe Aja-Nwachukwu at a meeting with Principals of the Unity Colleges in Abuja explained that the decision to collate the views of Nigerians on the matter necessitated Governments decision to suspend the private public partnership Management of the Colleges.

Dr. Aja-Nwachukwu also said that Government would restore the Junior Secondary component of the Federal Government Colleges.

The separation of the Junior Secondary School began component from main Secondary schools with the last Administration.

Correspondent reports that the removal of the Junior Secondary School made it impossible for students to gain admission into the Unity colleges

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240108

FCT: Police commissioner bans kabukabu from operating  

Unregistered Commercial Vehicles known as Kabukabu have been banned from operating with the Federal Capital Territory with immediate effect.

The FCT Police Commissioner, Mr. Haruna John, told newsmen in Abuja after an Emergency Security Council meeting that his was to stem the increasing wave of armed robbery, car snatching and missing persons.

He said operators of such Vehicles had one week to either register their Vehicles in the relevant category as Taxis or stop operations completely.

The Police Commissioner explained that a task force comprising the Police, the FRSC and Road Traffic Officers had been constituted to enforce the ban with effect from next Tuesday.

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230108

Health Ministry to spend over 11m to tackle diseases

About fifty thousand children are said to have been affected by measles and cerebral meningitis in the country.
The Director Special Duties in the Ministry of Health, Mr Abiodun Nasidi stated this when the management of the Ministry appeared before the House Committee on Health.
Mr Nasidi said the Ministry would spend over eleven million dollars to tackle the diseases.
The Chairman, House committee on Health, Mr Aaba Ojomo said the meeting was necessitated by reports from some members on the outbreak of German measles in Kano and Jigawa States.
Mr Ojomo gave an assurance that the National Assembly would work closely with the Ministry to address the matter.

KWARA: Police arrests three armed robbery suspects
The Kwara State Police Command has arrested three persons suspected to be members of an armed robbery gang that specialises in robbing petrol stations and eateries in Ilorin metropolis.
Correspondent reports that the three persons were among seventeen suspects arrested for various offences in Ilorin and its environs since the beginning of the year.
Parading the suspects at the Police Headquarters, Ilorin, the Commissioner of Police Mr Abu Abubakar stated that two members of the gang were arrested following a tip given to the Police at Adewole Estate, Ilorin.

Mr Abubakar said one of the suspects confessed to being a member of a gang that robbed a petrol station at Adewole Estate of the sum of two hundred and twenty three thousand Naira on 2nd of this month.

FCT: Cassava farmers request Govt to create market for product

Some Cassava farmers in the Country want government at all levels to create opportunities for farmers to market their produce.

According to them, the measure will facilitate massive production and processing of cassava thereby increasing foreign exchange earnings.

The farmers made the call at the disbursement of Federal Government and International Fund for the Agricultural Development Counterpart Fund to eligible beneficiaries participating in “Root and Tuber Expansion Programme” in the FCT.

Kano: Video Censorship Board destroys Pornographic/Indecent films

In Kano State pornographic and indecent films with thousands of Naira confiscated by the State Film and Video Censorship Board have been destroyed.

Speaking on the occasion, Governor Ibrahim Shekarau said the board was set up to ensure sanity and protect moral values of the people of the state.

He explained that the measure was necessary in view of the recent development in the film industry in the state which contravenes the norms, culture and religion of the people.
Governor Shekarau said no responsible government would fold its arms and watch some few individuals mortgaged the culture and religious values of the people in the state.

Taraba: FG to establish sugar plants in all states

The Federal Government ha concluded arrangement to establish a Brown Sugar Plants all States of the Federal.
This would further create employment opportunities in the country.
Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Alhassan Bako-Zaku, Stated this when he received the Governnor of Taraba State, Mr Danbaba Suntai.
                                                                                                                             
The Minister said the Federal Government had concluded plans to set up Technology incubation centre in Taraba State to encourage small scale industries in the State.

Earlier, the Governor, Mr Danbaba Suntai had expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for planning to establish the centre, which according to him would encourage entreneurship in the State.

FCT: 150 buses soon to be introduced- Modibbo

One hundred and fifty additional large capacity Buses will soon be introduced in Federal Capital Territory.

The FCT Minister, Dr Modibbo Umar, told newsmen in Abuja that the Buses were procured through a Public Private Sector Initiative.

Dr Umar who was represented by FCT Transportation Secretary, Mr Christopher Chigbo, explained that the Buses would assist in reducing the plight of commuters in the Territory.

He explained that when operational, members of the Public would be allowed to park their Vehicles and join the Buses to decongest traffic in the City Centre.

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220108

Beijing:  Tough times for celebrities, who violate one child rule

Reports say Beijing will impose higher fines on celebrities, who violate the One Child rule.
A senior Family Planning Official, Deng Zingshou said celebrities and wealthy people would be heavily fined for giving birth to more than one child.

He told a Beijing Municipal meeting that the Beijing Municipal Commission on Family Planning was still deliberating on the fine to be imposed on offenders.

In recent years, celebrities such as Film and Sports Stars have faced media criticism over the size of their families.

Lack of collaborative effort denies good health care - Chief Aduku

Lack of collaborative efforts between the Federal, State and Local governments to fast track health care delivery in the country has denied majority of Nigerians access to good health care.

Minister of State for Health, Chief Gabriel Aduku made the observation during his unscheduled visit to the model Health Center at Uchi in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State.

 Chief Aduku called on Local Government Administrations across the country to ensure the optimum use of the model health Centres, built in their respective localities to ensure that people in the rural areas enjoy maximum and adequate primary health care services.

The minister who expressed concern about the prevalence of deadly diseases ravaging the rural areas said the government was doing everything possible to eradicate the diseases.

FCT: Bwari Youths to collaborate with council

Gbagyi Youths in Bwari Area Council of the FCT are to collaborate with the council for the success of the monthly sanitation exercise.

To this end, the Youths under the umbrella of Gbagyi Youth Movement Association of Bwari are to begin a house to house Sensitization of residents of the area on the important of a clean environment.

The Head of the Association, Musa Dikko told Kapital FM that the youths have a role to play in the protection of the environment.

Mr. Musa Dikko appealed for the support of the Area Council and other stakeholders for the success of the programme.

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180108

NUGA to partner with Radio Nigeria

Radio Nigeria is the official Radio Broadcaster of the two thousand and eight Nigeria Universities Games, NUGA.

The game would be hosted by the University of Nigeria Nsukka. Coordinator of the NUGA Games Professor Benthos Okolo dropped this hint when he visited the FRCN, Boss Ben Egbuna in Abuja.

Professor Okolo explained that the partnership would offer immense economic benefit to the corporation and also help to sell the positive aspect of sports to Nigerians.

The director General of the FRCN, represented by the Director Marketing Mr Bola Agboola, said the corporation had all it would take to give the Games necessary publicity.

He advised the NUGA two thousand and eight organisers to come up with a work plan to enable the collaboration.

Correspondent reports that the funding of the games has been put at eight billion naira and about hundred participants from seventy nine Nigerian Universities will be gathering in Nsukka on November 2008 for the Games which has its theme as “Building the total man”.

ECOWAS adopts framework for prevention of conflicts

The ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council have adopted a framework for the prevention of conflicts in the sub-region.

The council made of Ministers’ of Foreign Affairs of the 15 member states of ECOWAS also approved the creation of emergency response team.

At the end of its one-day meeting in Ouagaduoguo, the council said the frame work would provide a common tool for a proactive prevention of causes of conflicts.
It stated that the creation of the agency was informed by the existence of refugees and displaced persons, and natural disasters which affected the region.

Traditional rulers necessary for success of Immunization Programme

The participation of traditional rulers in the National Immunization Programme is necessary boost to the success of the programme.

The Manager, National Programme on Immunization in the FCT, Doctor Obanewa Olayinka said this in a chat with Kapital FM ahead of the National Immunisation plus Days.

Obanewa stated that community leaders also owed it a duty to sensitise their people on Government Policies and Programmes, to avoid misconception about the exercise.

He said Health Facilitators ha been trained and deployed to the six Area Councils of Abuja, to organise orientation for immunization officials.

According to Dr. Obanewa, every child with the first year of life must be immunised against killer diseases, at least five times.

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170108

Better days for CIPS retirees

Better days await all retired staff of the Customs, Immigration and Prisons Service.
This is because the Federal Government has inaugurated issues of the effected Parastatals.

 Inaugurating the Committee in Gwagwalada, Abuja, the Director, Customs, Immigration and Prisons Pension Office, Hassan Saleh said the Task Force was specially set-up to review all the activities of his office.

He said the Committee would make a concerted effort to clear all outstanding matters as it relates to payment of Pension Benefits to retired officers men in the Customer, Immigration and Pension services.

Alhaji Saleh expressed dismay over series of complains about long delay in processing and payment of gratuity and Death Benefits of deceased

Pipeline vandals to face hard times

Hard time awaits pipeline vandals in Abaji Area Council as the Council has taken serious measures to discourage the criminal act.
The Council Boss, Alhaji Musa Yahaya gave the warning at a stakeholders meeting in Abaji.

The Chairman described pipeline vandals as enemies of development which should be fought.
Alhaji Musa Yahaya urged Security Agencies to be alive to their responsibilities of protecting Government property from vandalism.

In a message, the Ona of Abaji Adamu Baba Yunusa, called on Government to provide adequate working materials to be Police and Civil Defence Corps to enable them function effectively.

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160108

HIV: Nigeria records high rate of mother to child transmission

The joy of a pregnant woman is the birth of a healthy baby. But in Nigeria, it is a projection that about eighty thousand infants and children will be HIV positive by the end of the year.

This makes Nigeria one of the countries with the highest incidence of mother to child transmission of the virus.

Health workers however say with the programme on prevention of mother to child transmission or PMTCT, pregnant women who are HIV are now being assisted to have HIV negative children.

Lafia: Property worth millions lost to fire

Property worth millions of Naira has been destroyed in a fire out break at the Lafia main market in Nasarawa State, in the wee hour’s of today.

Kapital FM gathers that the owners of the shops affected by the inferno were helpless while watching their goods go up in flames.
The states fire fighting outfit worked desperately to bring the fire under control.
Security men were also at hand, to ensure protection of properties from hoodlums.

The state’s Chief fire fighter Mallam Dogara Dalhatu and one other officer are presently receiving treatment at the Specialist Hospital Lafia, following injuries they sustained while battling the inferno.
Correspondent reports that the cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
 

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150108

Over 8,200 Pilgrims return home from Saudi Arabia

About eight thousand, two hundred out of thirteen thousand, nine hundred pilgrims who travelled through Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport have been airlifted back to the country from Saudi Arabia.

The Zonal Co-ordinator of the National Hajj Commission in charge of Kano, Jigawa and Bauchi States, Alhaji Baffa Chinade, stated this in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Kano from Jeddah.

According to him, Kabo Air has so far completed the airlift of all the pilgrims from Bauchi State, and three thousand Kano State pilgrims allocated to it.

He further explained that the remaining five thousand, four hundred pilgrims from Kano and Jigawa States would be airlifted back to the country in the next few days.

Kenya Govt. rejects Int’l efforts to peace

The Kenyan government has again turned down international efforts to broker a solution to the crisis triggered by disputed elections.

Government, Minister John Michuki said in Nairobi that there was no need for former Un Chief, Kofi Annan to visit Kenya to lead fresh mediation efforts.

An initiative led by Ghanaian President John Kufor failed. More than six hundred people have been killed and two hundred and fifty thousand displaced in violence that followed elections on 27th December 2007.

Schools around Kenya belatedly reopened on Monday after holidays were extended.
Tension remains high as the Opposition Orange Democratic Movement, ODM, prepares to begin three days of anti-government demonstrations on Wednesday.

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140108

Kwara: Defaulting Farmers to pay back loans with farm produce

Farmers in Kwara state who cannot repay agricultural loans provided by government may now pay back with their farm produce.

Prince Suleiman Fagbemi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture told News Agency of Nigeria in Ilorin that the initiative was to boost food production.

He said the initiative was also to encourage farmers with alternative means of repaying their loans to enable them boost their agriculture production.

Fagbemi said government had assured farmers that whenever there was glut in the production of certain strategic farm produce, it would buy off the excess loans.  

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110108

Civil Societies /Non-Govt.Org collaborate to fight corruption

Some Civil Societies and Non-Governmental Organisations have underlined the need for collaboration with the government in the fight against corruption.

They made the call in Abuja at a conference on the performance of government in the fight against corruption so far.

The Chairman of the occasion, Mr Victor Oluwafemi from an NGO, Transparency and Anti- Corruption Campaign in Africa, TRACA, stressed the need to broaden the war against corruption to broaden the war against corruption to State and Local Government levels.

Mr. Oluwafemi also urged the Federal the Federal Government not to merge the EFCC and the ICPC.

Speaking on the occasion, the coordinator of Transparency in Nigeria, a Civil Society Organisation, Mr. Ezenwa Nwagwu emphasised the need for Nigerians to be actively involved in the fight.

Also, the Executive Director of Centre for Advocacy against Corruption Practices, CASORP, Mr. Simeon Charles said the setting up of EFCC and ICPC had instilled fears in Nigerians not to involve themselves in corrupt practices.
Mr. Charles further stated that to address corruption, leaders must give account of their stewardship.
The leader of Civil Society legislative Advocacy Centre, Mr Fatima Umar, called on religious leaders to join in the fight to minimise corruption in the country.

Health Minister urges: Extend Health Insurance scheme to other parts

The Minister of Health, Professor Adenike Grange has implored the Kwara State Government to extend the Dutch Government Sponsored Community Health Insurance scheme at Shonga, in E’du Local Government Area to other parts of the State.

Professor Grange made the call during a courtesy on Governor Bukola Saraki.
According to her, such an Insurance Health Scheme was one of the best ways those at the grass root could get easy and cheap access to quality health care.

She called on the State Governments to provide at least four more General Hospitals in their areas this year.
The Governor assured that his administration would do its best in expanding the community Health Insurance Scheme to other Local Government Areas of the State.

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090108

Kogi: Kogi: Low turn out at voters’ registration

In Kogi State, there has been a general apathy towards the continuous voters registration by citizens who have attained eighteen years of age as well as adults could NOT register in the previous exercise.

Radio Nigeria Correspondent, who monitored the exercise in Lokoja and Kotonkarfe Local Government areas of the State, said the exercise progressed.
Our correspondent also observed that there was low turn out of people at most ward headquarters in the state for the collection of the permanent voters card in exchange for the temporary one.

When contacted, the Head of Public affairs of INEC in the state, Mallam Ahmed Bagudu, expressed optimism that more people would go for the exercise as it progressed.
Mallam Ahmed reiterated the call on people to participate in the exercise.

Jigawa:  Fire Service spends over 9m for rescue operations

The Jigawa State Fire Service spent over nine hundred million for various rescue operations in the state.

The Acting Director, Mallam Nasiru Yusuf, told Radio Nigeria in Dutse that properties worth fifty-eight million Naira were also spent within the same by men of the fire service in the state.

Mallam Nasiru noted that a total of one thousand, two hundred and ninety lives were also saved from different rescue operations in parts of the sate.

He however said that more than nine hundred lives were lost through out the state due to fire outbreaks, road accidents and other related problems.

Kenya: President Mwai Kibaki appoints new Ministers

Kenya’s President, Mwai Kibaki has appointed new Ministers, just before Ghana’s leader arrived as part of mediation efforts following disputed elections.

Mr. Kibaki named Kalonzo Musyoka, who came third in last month’s election, as Vice President but no-one from the main opposition party was appointed.
A BBC correspondent says the move could derail the efforts of Ghana’s President John Kufor, who heads the African Union.

Violence broke out in opposition strongholds following the announcement.
Some 600 people have died in a wave of clashes across the country, after the opposition said the election had been rigged.

Meanwhile, opposition leader Raila Odinga, who claims that fraud robbed him of victory, says he will not attend talks with Mr. Kibaki on Friday, unless they are led by Mr. Kufuor.
He says Mr Kibaki should step down and new polls be conducted.

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040108

ABYF for positive change in Army barracks

The Nigerian Army is to establish an Army Barrack Youth Foundation this Month to positively re-direct the vision of children in the barracks.

The Director, Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Solomon Giwa-Amu, made this known in Abuja while on visit to the Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Mr Ben Egbuna.

He solicited for the support of the Corporation in the area of publicity and reiterated the Army’s support for democracy and the rule of law.

Responding, the representative of the Director General, who is also the Secretary to the Corporation, Alhaji Mustapha Kurama, said the FRCN was ready to support the Army.

Alhaji Kurama however called on the Army to take advantage of FRCN’s wide reach to publicize its activities and enlighten the officers and men on the demands of democracy.

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030108

Bwari: Isa urges traditional heads to sustain heritage

Traditional Rulers in Bwari Area Council have been urged to sustain the rich Cultural and Traditional heritage of their people.

Chief Executive of Bwari Area Council, Isa Dara made the call on the occasion of Bwaya Traditional Day in Bwari.

Isa Dara explained that Traditional Rulers in the country were known for promoting peaceful co-existence and good governance. He urged the Gbagyi community in Bwari to be tolerant and accommodating of other tribes in the area.

The Chairman also advised residents and staff of the council against petition writing for rapid development of the Area.
           
Earlier, the Etsu of Bwari, Dimas Isuwa Zamayi said, Bwaya Day was to remind the people of Bwari chiefdom of the significance of their rich culture and tradition.

Dobi assures Kuje, others of development

The Residents of Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali in the FCT have cause to be hopeful this New Year.

This is because their representative in the Lower Chamber of the National Assembly, Isa Dobi, says the areas will witness a facelift in the New Year.

He wants the people to pray for the country and its leaders. Isa Dobi pledged his determination to work for the welfare of the people.

Etsu asks politicians to focus on the society
           
Beneficiaries of programmes aimed at changing the lives of the less privileged in Kuje Area Council have turned Oliver twist.

This is because, they want political office holders to focus their attention on the condition of the down trodden on the society.

Although very grateful to the Kuje Area Council, they noted that the society would be a better place if the affluent pay attention to the welfare of the less privileged especially to make them self reliant.

In a remark at the occasion, the Chairman of the Council, Danladi Etsu Zhin stressed the need for people with disability in the area to look beyond their problem and explore the potential in them.

Food items, clothing materials and cash, were some of the largesse distributed to widows, people with disability, orphans and the aged at the occasion.

Mpape cries out for amenities

Residents of Mpape in Bwari Area Council of the FCT have sent an SOS to the council’s administration for urgent provision of portable water to the area.

The residents expressed dismay that despite being close to the city, the area could not boast of a single borehole constructed by the government.      
           
On his part, the Deputy District Head of Mpape Umaru Wakili appealed to the council and the FCT administration to come to their aid to avoid possible outbreak of any epidemic due to lack of portable water.

According to him, a gallon of water is sold at between 35 to 40 naira, which a lot of the residents can not afford.

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020108

Modibbo assures all of equal opportunities

The Federal Capital Territory Administration says it will give equal opportunity to all Nigerians and Foreigners resident in the territory irrespective of gender, religion or political affiliations.

FCT Minister, Dr Aliyu Modibbo, stated this in Abuja in his New Year message to the residents of the territory. He said the administration would work with the private sector to bring the much needed development in Abuja.

Dr Modibbo also appealed to residents to pray for continued unity of the country and its leadership.

PH: 20 houses burnt as tanker loses control

Property worth millions of Naira were destroyed when a tanker loaded with petrol lost control at Rumueme Mile four and burst into flames.

About twenty houses were burnt down but no life was lost in the accident.

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281207

Accident claims 23 lives at Nassarawa Eggon

Twenty-three people have been confirmed dead in an accident involving an eighteen seater bus and a tipper at Nassarawa Eggon, Lafia-Keffi Road on Thursday.
The eighteen seater bus which was coming from Makurdi axis collided with the tipper while trying to over take a trailer.

An eye witness account said there were thirteen males and five females as well as five children in the bus. News men reports that the corpses have been deposited at the General Hospital Makurdi.

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191807

Zuma wins leadership of the country’s ruling ANC

Jacob Zuma has defeated South Africa’s President Thabo Mbeki to win the leadership of the country’s ruling ANC.
Mr. Zuma won the votes of more than sixty percent of the delegates at the first ANC leadership conference in fifty eight years to emerge victorious.

By this Jacob Zuma will now become the front runner to take over as President when Mr Mbeki steps down in 2009.
Although Mr. Zuma is likely to become the next National President he could still face corruption charges in connection with a multi-million Dollar arms deal.

Friendship between President Mbeki and Jacob Zuma ended publicly in 2005 when Mr Zuma was sacked as Deputy President over corruption allegations.
Former President Nelson Mandela says he is saddened by the nature of the differences currently in the organisation.

Growing unpopularity with Mr. Mbeki’s style of leadership made Mr Zuma favourite of the people who believe that Zuma would reduce poverty in South Africa.

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181207

ANC Set to elect new Leader

The ruling African National Congress, ANC, of South Africa is electing its new Leader.
The contest is between President Thabo Mbeki and his former Deputy, Jacob Zuma.

They are the only nominees for the position when the party congress commenced on Monday.

Reports say if elected, Jacob Zuma may likely emerge the new President of South Africa during the Country’s Presidential election in Nineteen ninety-nine.

Mbeki is constitutionally bared from seeking a third term. 

Bassey seeks for collective fight against corruption.

The National Coordinator of Anti-Corruption Youth Movement of Nigeria, Uwem Bassey, said all hands must be on deck if we must get rid of corruption.

Mr Bassey told Kapital FM that corruption had been a serious hindrance confronting the progress of the nation.

According to him, the organization was putting in place a sensitization programme on corruption for the para-military as part of its efforts to ensure effective check.

“Stakeholders must come together to wash the society of corruption and build a better tomorrow for the generation yet unborn,” Mr Bassey stressed.

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171207

Iron-Ore gets boost, as company receives equipment

There is now hope for the commencement of the production of iron-ore super concentrate, at the National Ore Mining Company, Itakpe, Kogi State.
Do you know why? It is because the government at the centre has just taken delivery of over forty billion naira worth equipment for the full blast operation.
Receiving the items, Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Alhaji Ahmed Mohammed Gusau, said the equipment were ordered and paid for in the past seven years.
He said the items were delivered in seventy-two trucks containing machinery, spare parts and consumables.
According to the Minster, after installation of the equipment, there is hope that the company would be producing two point-five million metric tones of Iron-ore concentrate per annum.

Faruk tasks movie makers to reposition Nigeria

Nigeria movie makers have an additional task of repositioning the nation’s image through, the promotion of our values and national symbols.
The Chief Executive, National Orientation Agency, Idi Faruk stated this at a workshop for movie writers in Kaduna.
Idi Faruk said as the most effective tool for promoting the nation’s culture, the movie producer must celebrate their achievements of Nigeria and Nigerians in all fields of human endeavour.
“Avoid ritualistic and voodoo contents which portray Nigerians life style in bad lights,” Idi Faruk advised.
The workshop attracted the crème of movie                                writers in Nigeria and was used as a platform to appeal for the removal of all bottlenecks in their attempts to use the national symbol and monuments in the production of movies.

AMAC budgets 2billion for 2008

Next year budget in Abuja Municipal Area Council, AMAC will focus more on rural electrification and road rehabilitation.
To this end, the Council is to spend over two billion naira for the year.
Presenting the budget to the Council’s lawmakers, the man in charge of the Area Council, Mr. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo Assured the people of AMAC to expect better things come two thousand and eight.
Mr. Jisalo said through the Council had achieved much in education and health, attention would now be shifted to other areas.
On his part, the Speaker of the Legislative Arm, Mr. Yohanna Panayi said accelerated passage would be given to the budget.

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151207

ONDO: Electoral Commission despatches all materials for LG election

In Ondo State all sensitive and non-sensitive materials for Local Government election have been despatched by the Electoral Commission.

The Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Jones Ogunmusere told a news conference in Akure that seven political parties would participate in the election.

He urged all aggrieved political parties to seek redress through legitimate means.
On security arrangements, the State Police PRO, Mr. Adeniran Aremu said policemen had been deployed to various poling booths.

Correspondent reports that movement within the State would be restricted between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. to ensure smooth conduct of the exercise.

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121207

New salaries for FCT Health Workers

Good news for health workers in the Federal Capital Terrority.
The FCT Health and human services secretariat says the health workers in the Terrority will now receive uniform salary with their counterparts in the federal service. The secretary, Danlami Arabsrukuyei dropped the hint at a workshop on excellence in customer service delivery for health care providers in General Hospitals within the FCT.
Dr. Arabsrukuyei explained that that payment of the new salary would take effect as soon as the 2008 budget was approved.
“Henceforth, patients will no longer be allowed to purchase drugs and other medical supplies outside the hospital premises” Arabsrukeyis stressed.

Cross River collects $55.44 ADF assisted loan

Cross River State government will now have enough money to maintain its rural transportation, courtesy ADF Assisted loan, of 55.44million US dollars.
At the signing ceremony in Abuja, the finance minister, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman said, the loan became necessary in order to find a lasting solution to the Poor State of the rural road networks.

NPC gets new DG
Dr. Donald Wokoma is now the Director General of the National Population Commission. The appointment takes effect from September, 2007. This is contained in a statement by the Federation, Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe.
Until this appointment Dr. Wokoma, was the acting Director General, following the retirement of the former DG, Mr Osamwoyin Osagie.

SPLM joins coalition govt.

Sudan’s former southern rebels say Shey will rejoin a National coalition government in an apparent end to the political crisis.
The Sudan people’s Liberation Movement SPLM withdrew from the government in October, risking a 2005 peace deal.
But the SPLM agreed to end its boycott after its leader Salva Kiir met Sudan’s president Omar Hassan Al-Bashir.
They agreed funding for a census and a timetable to pullout troop either side of Sudan’s North South border.
Reports say many people would slide back into civil conflict, if the two side did not resolve their differences.

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111207

Gwagwalada: NUT denies can collation of loan scheme

The Gwagwalada Area Council Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, says there is no iota of truth in speculations that the proposed loan scheme for its members has been can cancelled.

A Statement by the Chairman of the Union, Mallam Yakubu Mohammed says the rumour is the handiwork of those trying to distract the Union Executive.

He said the delay being experienced in the disbursement of the loan was as a result of administration processes which had been sorted out.

Mallam Yakubu Mohammed stresses that the disbursement will soon commence, and commended the support of members of the Union of the Area Council.

 NYSC: Olasunkanmi promises master plan on sports

The National Youth Service Crop, NYSC, is to restrengthen its sporting activities with a view to attaining higher performance and effective management.

Ministers of Youth Development, Chief Akinlabi Olasunkanmi Stated this at the opening ceremony of the 2007 NYSC Sports festival in Abuja.

Chief Olasunkanmi said for the NYSC to achieve its sporting targets, there must be a framework for detailed sports master plan involving multiple sporting activities.

Earlier, the Executive Director of the NYSC, Brigadier General Yusuf Bomoi described the NYSC Scheme as a melting pot for the nation’s labour needs while instilling discipline in the Youth.

He therefore charged participating corps members to present a healthy and friendly atmosphere through out the period of the completion.

Kaduna: seventy four vocational and skills centers to be established
Meanwhile seventy four Vocational and skills equisitum Centers are to be established in the Country.

The Executive secretary, National Board for Technical Education, Doctor Nuhu Yakubu Made this known in Kaduna at a technical and Vocational Entrepreneurship skills acquisition workshop for woman groups in the North West zone.

Doctor Yakubu said that the Centers are to offer Vocational, technical and professional training at the post basic and post secondary levels  to equip Youths and adults with skills and knowledge to meet the demands for technical manpower in Nigeria.

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061107

Group urges policy makers to identify with the people

In order to make Government Programmes acceptable to the people, a group known as the Coalition for change has an advice for policy makers. Involve the people in budget planning and execution.

Coordinator of the group, Hajiya Amina Ibrahim brought this message to Radio Nigeria on Tuesday when she led a delegation to the Corporations Chief Executive, Ben Egbuna at the Radio House, Abuja.According to her, unless the people are carried along, the Millennium Development Goals may be far from achieving its objective.

Hajiya Amina Ibrahim, who is also the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Millennium Development Goals, particularly wants Radio Nigeria to take the message to the people.

The FRCN Chief Executive, Ben Egbuna, agreed with the Organization and did not hesitate to pledge his assistance in propagation the message.Please be aware that the coalition for change has its memberships drawn from the business, academic, civil society and other advocacy group.

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051107

Govt. offices connect to information super highway soon.
Communication in Government offices and departments in the country in the country is to be made easy.
This is because plans are on the way to link the offices to the information super Highway for enhanced operation.
The government is therefore collaborating with relevant organisations to ensure the realization of the plan.

The man in charge of the information and Communications Ministry Mr. John Odey told a Microsoft delegation which paid him a courtesy visit that the greatest challenge facing Nigeria was that of weak public institutions.

Mr. John Odey said government was prepared to work out operational guidelines with Microsoft to ensure the success of the project.
Eariler, the Vice President of the Organization, Mr Michael Rawding had expressed its commitment to launch governance to another Level through the Information Super Highway.

Professor Iwu Calls for Judicial Over -Haul
Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, is interested in seeing that the entire judicial system is over hauled.
The man at the helm of INEC Affairs, Professor Maurice Iwu told lawmakers at all levels not to levels not to leave any stone unturned in carrying out the idea of the Commission.

Professor Iwu gave the indication when speakers of the South East and South-South geo-political zones paid him solidarity visit.
The chief electoral officer said the contributions of the lawmakers would help in sustaining the rule of law and instill democratic ideas in the people.

Professor Iwu said it was unfortunate that some people could trivialize the outcome of the April elections.
The INEC Boss, however, maintained that the commission would continue to do their best in spite of all odds.

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021107

Pipeline vandals: NSCDC arrests 40
Forty suspected pipeline vandals have been arrested in Abiji, Ogun State by men of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
Items recovered from the suspects included thirty tankers with fifteen of them fully loaded with petroleum products.
A statement in Abuja by the headquarters of the Civil Defence Corps said 5,000,000 Naira cash was also recovered from the vandals.

Police arrest criminals
Thirteen members of three criminal gangs that have been terriorising the Northern parts of the country are now in police net.
One of the gangs confessed to have murdered the son of the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State.
The Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr Mike Okiro who paraded the suspects expressed appreciation to members of the public who supplied information that led to the arrest of the robbers.

Imo State Election: Tribunal begins hearing
The Imo State Election Tribunal has commenced hearing of the petition brought by Senator Ifeanyi Ararume against the election of the state governor Chief Ikedi Ohakim.
The Tribunal headed by Mr Justice Ibrahim Mairiga received documentary evidence as presented by Senator Ararume which covered eleven local Governments in which he claimed he had won in the April 28th governorship poll.
The tribunal adjourned till November 12th for accelerated hearing and to take documentary evidence from governor Ohakim’s lawyers as well as from the Independent National Electoral Commission.

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011107

NIPRD to partner with Florida University to fight cancer in Africa
The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development is to partner with Florida University, to fight prostrate cancer in Africa.
NIPRD Director, Dr. Uford Inyang told a delegation from the American Institution that the production of effective cancer fighting drugs would be enhanced if traditional methods of treating the disease can be proven scientifically.
The leader of the Florida University delegation, Professor Folakemi Odedina, said further collaboration was required to better understand cancer and its particularly deadly effect on Black African men.
This visit also coincided with a seminar during which Papers on cancer cell immortality, and active cancer projects at Florida University were presented.

APRM creates awareness on benefits in democratic governance
The Major Challenge in the implementation of African Peer Review Mechanism, APRM is out to make Nigerians aware of the goodies in democratic governance.
APRM is designed to ensure good governance in Africa under the banner of democracy.
At a Tete-a-tete with Electronic Media Executive on the NEPA/APRM in Abuja, the Co-odinator, Ambassador Tunji Olagunju said, Nigerians must see the NEPAD Agenda as theirs, and not just the Government.
Ambassador Olagunju particularly wants the media to create awareness on the importance of APRM, especially at the grassroots.
Newsmen report that APRM is a self-monitoring mechanism that is voluntarily acceded to by member states of the African Union to foster sustainable good governance.

Banks to procure bullion vans before February next year
Banks in the country now have up to February next year within which to procure Armored Bullion Vans.
The Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro had given them a deadline of October this year, to make the Bullion Vans available or lose the services of his men.
Mike Okiro gave the change of date at a meeting with his top officers in Abuja.
The number one Police Officer said the change of date became necessary due to plea from some banks that have not yet procured their vans.

African Journalists meet in Abuja to chart a new course

African Journalists are to converge in Abuja to chart a new course for their profession.
As will be expected, their Nigerian colleagues under their umbrella Union ,NUJ, has concluded arrangement to make their stay in Nigerian a worth-while experience.
Chairman Organizing Committee for the Conference, Gbenga Onayiga was at Kapital FM, where he solicited its support in the area of publicity.
Gbenga Onayiga who is also a Vice President of NUJ, said pen pushers from about fifty African Countries would be in Nigeria for the unique meeting.
He was accompanied by other members of the Organizing Committee.
The General Manager Kapital FM, Mohammed Bello was represented by the Head of News, Adamu Umar.

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291007

NDE set to provide practical insight into self employment
                                          

If the promise of the National Directorate of Employment is anything to go by, unemployment will soon be a thing of the past. This is because the Directorate is set to provide practical insight into self employment.

To achieve this, over three thousand youth corps members posted to FCT will converge today for sensitization programme on the possibility of entrepreneurship, skills acquisition and self reliance.

This according to a statement from the NDE will bring to end the search for white collars job s after the service year.

The occasion which will hold at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Kubwa, FCT will feature exhibition of products by successful entrepreneurs.

Abuja Tourism Development Board embarks on training of personnel

Tourism can boost the economy of any nation and without it, no country can develop meaningfully. It is against this backdrop that the Abuja Tourism Development Board is bent on embarking on the training of personnel to make Abuja a tourist friendly city.

The training will address lack of knowledge by tourism officers which has created a gap between the public and practitioners.

At a parley with newsmen in Abuja, the helmsman of the Board, Abdullahi Idris said the training would entail participation in international exhibition, tourism, travel and hospitality fairs by the officers.

The training will include drivers, tour operators, food vendors and travel agents whose activities are crucial to the success of the tourism industry.

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Uchendu seeks for total change in Nigerian Prisons

Under feeding, poor quality of foods, high handedness and official’s indifference to inmate’s welfare are some of the reasons for jail breaks.

This was made Known to news hunters in a statement by the national Co-ordinator of Prisoner and Right project (PARP} Mr.Kassidy Uchendu in Enugu.

Mr. Uchendu asked the Judiciary to join hands with Prison authorities to ensure total changed in Nigerian Prisons.
Our Prisons are grossly overcrowded inmates sleep on bare floor in turns in Juxtaposition, while others keep vigil throughout the night, squatting for lack of space, Mr.Uchendu alleged.

CHAD: Rebel Groups seal peace agreement with Govt.

Four Chadian Rebel Groups have sealed a peace agreement with the Government.

Libyan strongman Muammar Gadafi hosted the talks alongside the President of Chad and Sudan.

The Insurgent Group have waged an on – off rebellion against Chadian President Idris Derby for years.

The fighting was linked to the conflict in the neighbouring Sudanese Region of Darfur.

An estimated two hundred and forty thousand refugees from Sudan are in Easter Chard.

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241007

NYSC Legal Aid Community development Group emphasises citizens’ rights

Many citizens in the country do not seem to know their basic human rights. Mostly affected in this group include the uneducated, the very poor and the less privileged members of the society.

This class of people in the society suffer all manner of inhuman or degrading treatment, deprivation and out-right abuse of their in-alienable rights.

To address the situation, the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC Legal Aid Community development Group takes the bull by the horn.

NICEGA games comes to an end in Obudu

Four events were concluded on Tuesday, October 23, at the fifteenth NICEGA Games at the Federal College of Education Obudu.

In Langa Federal