051007

Money Laundering: Group commends Nigeria

The Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa has given Nigeria a pat on the back for the progress made so far in its anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing framework.

The Man in charge of the Group in Nigeria, Dr.Abdullahi Shehu gave the commendation on a visit to the Minister of Interior in Abuja.

 Dr. Shehu explained that the aim of the Group’s visit was to evaluate Nigeria’s compliance with acceptable international standard in the fight against money laundering.
Responding, the Interior Minister, Retired Major General Godwin Abbe said all Security Agencies under the Ministry had been sensitized on the need to collaborate with other law enforcement agencies to effectively combat the menace of money laundering, terrorism financing, and human trafficking.

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041007

David Mark frowns at lack of portable water

Senate President David Mark is not happy that many Nigerians still have no access to portable water after forty seven years of Independence.

The Senate President was speaking at the Inauguration of the Senate Committee on water resources in Abuja.
Senator Mark therefore gave an assurance that the Senate would give approval to any budgetary allocation appropriated to the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources for optimal utilization.
He urged the Committee to work closely with the ministry and other agencies of government to pursue the policy objectives of the Present administration.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Bassey Ewa-Henshaw said, the Committee would be transparent, fair and always be guided by the constitution.

National Assembly Correspondent reports that the Senate Committee on Water Resources is one of the standing committee of Senate established in accordance with Senate standing rule, and give jurisdiction for oversight purpose over all matters relating to water.

Sudanese Govt. pledges to rebuild Darfur

In the meantime, the Sudanese government has announced a pledge of three hundred million Dollars to help rebuild and repair Darfur.
Former U.S. President, Jimmy Carter told newsmen in Khartoum, shortly after talks with President Omar Al-Bashir, that the Sudanese government was also willing to have international observers during the elections planned for two thousand and nine.
Mr. Carter is among a group of four elder statesmen in Sudan trying to find solutions to the conflict.

He explained that one hundred million Dollars of the pledge would come from the Sudanese government while the balance of two hundred million Dollars would be a loan from China.

The Commander of the African Union Force in Darfur, General Martin Luther Agwai said he did not expect improvement in the situation on the ground, until the twenty-six thousand joint AU-UN force is deployed on the first of January two thousand and eight.

Private security to support NSCDC to achieve its mandate

Private security outfits in the country have been urged to support the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp NSCDC, to achieve its mandate of ridding the country of vandals.

The Boss of a private security outfits, Mr. Emmanuel Okpara made the call at the on going trade fair at the old parade ground in Abuja.

He gave the NSCDC a pat on the back for effectively checking the activities of vandals in the country despite inadequate materials to work with.

Mr. Okpara also commended the present administration for making security one of its priorities in the seven point’s agenda.

He advised residents’ f the Federal Capital Territory to be more security conscious especially in these ember months.

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270907

UN: Secretary General sends special envoy to Myanmar

United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon has sent his special envoy on political matters, Nigeria’s Ibrahim Gambari to Myanmar to assist in the process of national reconciliation.
The mission was in response to what Ban Ki-moon described as the crumbling situation in Myanmar.

The people of Myanmar protested the current economic hardship and embarked on demonstration early last week against a military group.

The protesters were monks who embarked on prayers and demonstration which brought the country to a halt.

The Burmese Security forces raided two monasteries early today beating up and detaining more than ten marks after a day of violent protest.

FG reviews committee on Tax Waivers

The Federal Government has inaugurated a team of Auditors and review committee on waivers, concessions and incentives.

Inaugurating the Committee, the Minister of Finance, Doctor Shamsudeen Usman clarified that government only suspended granting of new waivers.

He pointed out the objective of granting tax waivers and concessions first place was a deliberate policy by government to attract investors against back drop of high cost of doing business in the country.
Doctor Usman explained that the committee would also look into the reforms in customs as it relates to clearing of gods in the port.
The Minister said the over all target was to ensure that goods that enter the ports are cleared within forty-eight hours.

Notable personalities that graced the occasion include the Accountant General of the Federation, Committee on Finance and Appropriate, Director General of Dept Management Office and NDIC and host others.
Correspondent reports that the committees are made up of seventeen members and seven Auditing Firms.
 

In honour of the former Senate President, Chief Evan Enwerem the National Assembly on Thursday held a valedictory session. The body of late Chief Enwerem laid in state for Members of the National Assembly to pay their last respect to the first President of Senate in the Fourth Republic.

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250907

Taraba State: Governor pledges support for poverty eradication

The Taraba State Governor, Danbaba Suntail, has pledged the sum of Five hundred million naira as counterpart fund in the poverty eradication programmes, of the National Poverty Eradication Programme NAPEP.The governor made this pledge during a courtesy visit to the National Coordinator of NAPEP, Dr. Magnus Kpakol, in his office.

Alhaji Sutai said that, the purpose of his visit was to let the National coordinator know that a new chapter had been opened in the history of Taraba State.He said his administration would work closely with NAPEP, to ensure that the people of Taraba benefits from all the poverty alleviation measures of the agency.

Responding Dr. Magus Kpakol said that the basis of NAPEP was to work with people at the grassroots.Mr. Kpakol noted that NAPEP was looking forward, to provide technical support to states and work with the governors to tackle poverty.The National Coordinator commended the Governor for his passion, vision and decision to partner with NAPEP, to bring his people out of the clinches of poverty.

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210907

Africa: Aid agencies appeal for funds to assist people hit by floods

Some aid agencies are worried about floods in Africa. To this end the agencies have started appealing for funds to assist people hit by floods in several African countries.
Also United Nations Agencies are seeking extra funds for Uganda where the government has declared an emergency.

The United Nation says one point five million people are affected by the flood, which have hit a several countries from the east to the west of the continent.
Northern Ghana was badly affected where the White Volta River burst its banks following day’s torrential rain and large areas of farmland were flooded.

The Floods is reported to be the worst in many countries for decades, with two hundred and fifty killed and more than six hundred thousand displaced.

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190907

Environment and Ecology Committee to review existing laws

The Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology, is to review existing laws on Environment as while as ensure domestication of international regulation.

The Chairman, Senator Grace Bent stated this in an interview with newsmen after the inauguration of the committee in Abuja.

Senator Bent noted that there was need for a holistic environmental policy that would clearly define the role of all tiers of Government in the management of the environment.

She advocated for stiffer penalties on individuals or companies that violate environmental laws.

Senator Bent said the committee would soon embark on a nationwide campaign to states and local governments to sensitise the people on the need to maintain clean environment.

The Chairman Senate Committee on Environment and Ecology said plans was also on the way for the re-introduction of National Environmental Day in the country.

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Agriculture Development: Borno State seeks support from the United State

Governor Ali Modu Sheriff of Borno has solicited the assistance of the United States Government towards enhancing Agriculture Development in the State.

Governor Sheriff made the call when the U.S Charge D’Affairs, Mr. Robert Gribbin visited him in Maiduguri.

He said developing the Agricultural sector was top on his priority list because it was the major occupation of more than seventy percent of the people in the state.

The Governor commended the U.S embassy for assisting the state in the provision of potable water and educational materials.

Earlier the U.S Charge D’Affairs Mr. Robert Gribbin said he was in the state to inaugurate the American corner at the University of Maiduguri as well as donate the books to eight secondary schools.

Bwari: Chairman calls on community leaders brace up to their responsibility

In line with the directive of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory to rid the territory of crime, Bwari Area Council has urged community leaders to be alive to their responsibilities of monitoring the activities of suspicious characters in the area.

The Chairman Mr. Isa Dara made the call at a meeting with opinion leaders in Bwari.

Mr. Dara said steps have been taken to make the area uncomfortable for criminals.

These include provision of vehicles to the police and monthly grants to the Divisional Police Officers as well as recognized vigilante groups to enhance the performance.

Mr. Dara noted that the fight against crime was a collective responsibility.

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170907

Nigeria Aviation authorities to present country’s profile in the Industry
Nigeria’s Aviation authorities will present the country’s profile in the Industry to an emergency Meeting called by International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, toward safer Aviation in Africa.
The Emergency Meeting was called by the ICAO ahead of the thirty Fifth Convention in Montreal, Canada, to find ways of funding the safety plan for Africa.
The Director General, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Harold Demuren, is already in Canada for the meeting.
ICAO is worried about the high rate of accidents in Africa and is working out ways to improve safety in the sector.
The Organisation has developed a comprehensive Regional Implementation plan for Aviation Safety in Africa aimed at safety improvements on the continent.
The Plan was developed following a visit to Africa last year by members of the Air Navigation Commission of ICAO.

NYCN: Inauguration of Seven- Member Caretaker Committee to conduct election
A Seven- Member Caretaker Committee has been inaugurated to conduct election into the Executive Committee of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN.
At a Media Briefing in Abuja, the Chairman of the Committee, Emmanuel Dashe explained that the setting up of the Committee became necessary following the dissolution of the immediate past Executive Committee of the Congress in Ilorin, the Kwara State Capital.
He gave an assurance that the Committee would do its best to usher in credible officials that would run the affairs of the body in the next three years.
Mr. Dashe said the Committee would collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Youth Development for the smooth conduct of the election.
Members of the Committee are drawn from the six geo-political zones.

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130907

House of Reps:  Leadership to appear before the Committee next week

The Leadership of the House of Representatives is to appear before the Committee Investigating the allegation of contract award against the Speaker on Monday next week.
Also to appear are the Clerk of the National Assembly and House of Representatives, Directors of Finance, Legal Works and Estate as well as Director planning of the Assembly.

In a statement today in Abuja the Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee, Mr. David Idoko explained that the measure was to enable the committee ascertain the level of their involvement.
National Assembly Correspondent, Mohammed Gbedus Abdullahi reports that officials of the FCDA and the contractors handling the project were also summoned to appear before the panel.

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120907

NBC plans to go digital

The Director General of National Broadcasting Commission NBC, Mr. Bolarinwa says the available broadcast frequencies cannot accommodate the number of companies seeking license.

Mr. Bolarinwa made this known at the inauguration and induction of Abuja chapter of Nigeria institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.

He said the commission was planning to go digital so as to accommodate more licenses.

The Director General called on regulators in the Broadcast industry to brace up to the challenges of the digital trend in the industry.

Mr. Bolarinwa corrected the notion that broadcast license fee in the country was too high adding that licenses were categorized into commercial license.

Odey stresses the need for Security in the Plateau State

The Government Spokesman, Mr. John Odey has harped on the need for State Government to take the issue of Security seriously to attract foreign investment.

Mr. Odey stated this when he played host to the Deputy Governor of Plateau state, Mrs. Pauline Tallen.

He emphasized that security of lives and property would facilitate the implementation of the economic agenda of this administration.

Mr. Odey advised the Government and people of Plateau State to make maximum use of the proposed information Resource Center to be established by the Minister to project the activities of the state.

Congratulating the Minister on his appointment, Mrs. Pauline Tallen promised that Plateau State would support him in the task of national rebirth.

Also speaking, the Minister of state for information and Communication, Alhaji Ibrahim Makande disclosed that Highland FM, the new FM Stations of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, in Jos would soon commence transmission.

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100907

NURTW Boss enjoins commuters to boycott night journeys
The President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, Alhaji Gidado Hamman says 85 percent of road traffic in the nation’s highways occurs at night.
Alhaji Hamman made this known in Abuja while briefing newsmen on the general misconception about “Ember Months” and circumstances that often lead to road accidents in the country.
He said night traveling could only be discouraged when commuters boycott night journey.
The NURTW Boss urged the authorities of the Federal Road Safety Corps to ensure effective implementation of the Road Transport Safety Standardization scheme.  

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070907

Members of the House react on panel set up

Some members of the Lower Legislative Chamber have bared their mind on the panel constituted to investigate the allegation of the contract award against the speaker Mrs. Patricia Etteh.
In an Interview with national assembly correspondent Mohammed Gbedus Abdullahi in Abuja, a member of the House from Edo State Mr. Friday ltullah said he was confident in the ability of the member to carry out the assignment. Mr Friday ltullah showered encomiums on members of the House for the high sense of maturity exhibited in handling the matter.
The man overseeing the house Committee on Rules and business, Mr.ita Enang assured Nigerians that the Committee’s investigative hearing would be made public.

The leader of the integrity group of the house Alhaji Farouk lawan expressed satisfaction with the composition of the committee.
In case you have forgotten, the House of Representatives has been in deep water over award of contract for the renovation of the Residences of its principle Officers

Public Health Department to realise Health MDG.

The Federal Ministry of Health says Public Department is achieving the Health Millennium Development Goal.

Director Public Health, Doctor Ngozi Njepuome stated this at a two-day workshop organised for the newly deployed staff of the Ministry in Abuja.

Doctor Njepuome expressed happiness that Public Health in the country was receiving more attention form the Government and other stakeholders.

She emphasised the f need for stakeholders to come together to achieve the Millennium Development Goals.

Earlier in a message, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mallam Ibrahim Talba noted that the meeting would provide a forum for the orientation of re-deployed officers.

FG to support the development of women economic empowerment

The Federal Government will not relent in its efforts to support the development of women economic empowerment, and will continue to ensure the development of small and medium scale Enterprises as a foundation for meaningful economic growth and development in the country.

This remark was made by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Saudatu Usman Bungudu at a parley with the target of the 7-point Agenda of President Yar’Adua on wealth Creation and Poverty Reduction.

She emphasised the need for partnership among various stakeholders in pursing women issues, considering their numerical strength, potentials and critical place in the development process.
Hajiya Bungudu pointed out that, until poverty was diminished, gender issues streamlined and women adequately empowered, the chances of Nigeria meeting the Millennium Development Goals target of eradicating extreme poverty by two thousand and fifteen may not materialise.

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060907

Private Guards to cooperate with Civil Defence Corps

The Federal Government wants Private Guard Operators in the country to cooperate with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to discourage incursion of quacks in the profession.

The Minister of State for Interior, Alhaji Hassan Haruna made the call to day at the presentation of Private Guard operational licenses to prospective private security service providers in Abuja.

Alhaji Haruna pledged the ministry’s readiness to support the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in ensuring sanity in the operations of the Private Guard Industry.

Earlier, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Doctor Ade Abodurin called on the operators to conform to government policies on the payment of their staff salaries.

Responding on behalf of the Private Guard Operators, Retired Air Vice Marshal   Akin Odesola promised that they would obey the rules guiding the Private Guard companies.

Eleven Private Guard Companies were given operational licenses by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

Yar’Adua calls for cooperation between NDE and National Council in Agriculture

President Umaru Yar’Adua has called on the National Council in Agriculture to collaborate with the NDE towards exploiting the abundant opportunities in the Culture Industry for job creation and youth Empowerment.

President Yar’Adua stated this in a message to the 2007 National Festival for Arts and Culture (NAFEST), in Benue State.

He promised to give attention to activities in the sector to improve its viability. He commended the theme of the festival, tagged Culture, Job Creation and Youth Empowerment.

President Yar’Adua maintained that NAFEST has promoted National and International Unity and Consciousness. He expressed the determination of his administration to tap the abundant potentials in the Culture and Tourism Industry of the National Economy in order to rank among the largest economies of the world by 2020.

Earlier, the Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation who was represented by the Minister of State Doctor Idi Hong said the Federal Government will develop the culture Industry to tackle the problem of youth restiveness.

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050907

Jonathan opposes the separation of joint account
 The nation’s number two helmsman, Vice President Goodluck Jonathan has disagreed with those calling for the separation of the joint Account of states and local government councils.
He said instead, such people should offer valuable suggestions on how best to manage the accounts.
The Vice President who was represented by his senior Assistant on Development Cooperation, Mr Femi Ajjeri, at a four –day National Workshop on the operations, disbursements and management of State and Local Governments joint Account in Abuja, explained that, the joint Account was instituted to ensure even development and check embezzlement.
He said those in charge of Accounts would be required from time to time to give stewardship of the operation of the Account.

FCT: Minister urges companies to observe their corporate responsibilities
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Aliyu Modibbo has urged multi-national companies operating in the territory to observe their corporate responsibilities.
Modibbo made the call during the inauguration of the Abuja plant of the Nigerian Bottling Company.
He urged them to display corporate responsibilities by building schools, roads, clinics, provision of potable water and sundry facilities to their host communities.
On his part, Chief Operation Officer of the Company, Muktar Kent said his Organization was deeply committed to the country and its citizens.

 
Okeke calls on state governments to tackle the plight of pensioners
The Head of Civil Service of The Federation, Ebele Okeke wants state governments to address the plight of pensioners.
Okeke made the assertion when she hosted heads of service from the South-East Zone in Abuja.
In a statement, Okeke decried the situation where retired civil servants ended up as paupers.
She urged those in leadership position to address the problem. The Head of Civil Service was optimistic that with the introduction of reforms the Civil Service would greatly improve.
Responding, the Abia State Head of Service, Uchenna Eznezue described Okeke’s appointment as historic and promised to partner with her to boost the service morale.

Delta State: Government sets up Ministry of Science and Technology
In response to the call by the Ministry of Science And Technology, the Delta State Government has established a Ministry of Science and Technology.
Hosting the new Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Doctor Ronald Eyime in his office, the Minister, Mrs. Grace Ekpiwhere pledged to avail the state of its repertoire of expertise in Science that would assist the state in capacity building and Human Resource Development.
Mrs. Ekpiwhere who gave kudos to Delta State for their initiative, promised to help the state realize its scientific dreams.
Mrs. Ekpiwhere said her Ministry has a viable structure which the state would adopt to suit its peculiarities.
Responding, the Delta State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Ronald Eyime said his state needed to develop science in order to productively engage its youths in Nation building.
Newsmen reports that the Minister on assumption in office urged state governments to establish a State Ministry of Science and Technology to contribute to the nation’s economy maximally.

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040907

Niger:  Governor warns civil servants against corruption and poor service delivery.

The Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliyu has warned civil servants in the state against corruption and poor service delivery.

Governor Aliyu handed down the warning at the opening of a seven-day retreat for top civil servants and politicians in Minna, the state capital.

He described the civil service as the bedrock of any successful administration and urges the participants to rise to the challenges of reforming the system from the evils of corruptions.

Aliyu said He would bequeath to the state the best civil service in the country in terms of professionalism and good service delivery.

On his part, Mr. Tunde Fagbemi, Managing Director, Spring Fountain Consortium, organizers of the Retreat, said the workshop was to keep the participants abreast of new trends in the civil service.

Police to tackle accommodation problem

Accommodation problem for members of the Nigeria Police Force will soon become a thing of the past.
The Police Equipment Fund Foundation has donated fifty blocks of flats to the Nigerian Police.

The mouthpiece of the Nigerian Police and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Haz Iwendi announced this on a Police Diary, a Radio Nigeria Live Network Programme.

He said the gesture was in-line with the priority of the Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro, which is "housing for all members of the force".

Mr. Iwendi stated that community whose police station was destroyed through any act of violence would have the responsibility to rebuild the station.

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310807

IN and Around Abuja

Kwali Area Council opts to support Fadama Two Projects
Kwali Area Council Administration in the federal Capital Territory has pledged to support Fadama Two Projects in the area for the benefit of the community.
The Council Chairman, Mr. Samuel Mari- Gwamna stated this in a message to a stakeholders meeting of Fadama Two in Kwali, Abuja.
Mr. Mari-Gwamna, represented by the Vice Chairman, Mallam Saidu Adamu Ashara said residents in the area who were mostly agrarian would benefit from the Programme.
Mr. Mari Gwamna said Council has paid its counterpart funding of two million naira for optimum job satisfaction.
Earlier, the Desk Officer in charge of the project in the area, Mallam Ibrahim Bawalagi commended the Council’s administration for its support to the Fadama Two Project.

Dickson calls on government to create job opportunities for the youths
The National Commandant, Peace Corps of Nigeria, Chief Dickson Akoh has called on Government at all levels to give priority on job creation for the youths to reduce youth restiveness.
Chief Akoh made the call at call at a media briefing in Abuja.
The Peace Corps National Commandant hinted that the Organization has forwarded a proposal to the Federal Government on how it wish to assist Government address youth unemployment situation in the country.
Chief Akoh who condemned the recent mayhem in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Capital however criticized the call for State of Emergency in the State, pointing out that it was not in the best interest of the Nations.
Chief Akoh also advised Government to begin the process of moping up arms used by those involved in the mayhem to solve the insecurity situation in the State.

Police Command partners with Kapital FM to ensure crime control in Abuja
FCT Police Command and your darling dial Kapital FM have resolved to work together in ensuring a crime free Capital City.
During a courtesy visit to the Management of Kapital FM, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Mr. Haruna John said the partnership would be in the area of informing and educating residents on the need to always be security conscious.
Mr. John, who attributed the crime rate in the Territory to the demolition exercise and influx of people on a basis into the Territory, noted that security was the responsibility of all.
The FCT Police Commissioner said the Command had raided some identified black spots around the Territory and would continue to give criminal elements hard times until they were flushed out.
Responding, the General Manager Kapital FM, Alhaji Mohammed Bello noted that despite inadequate working facility and little incentives, the Nigeria Police had performed creditably.
Alhaji Bello advised the Command to organize a forum for Radio Presenters on tit bits about security.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of an award by the FCT Police Command to the General Manager Kapital FM.

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290807

Adenike calls for partnership to prevent HIV/AIDS in Nigeria
Health minister, Professor Adenike Grange has called for strong collaboration and partnership between the public and private sectors in the areas of prevention, treatment, care and support services for HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
Professor Grange made the call at a forum in Lagos. She said the collaboration became necessary as situation analysis conducted in 2005 showed that more than fifty percent of Nigerians living with the virus access to care from private sector providers.
The Minister noted that the Health Sector strategic plan for HIV/AIDS, 2005-2009 had clearly articulated such collaboration and partnership.
Professor Grange explained that child survival indicators rate may be worsened by the HIV/AIDS epidemic if stakeholders do not work together to implement efficient prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission.

Minister advocates for continued research and development of Traditional Medicine
The Minister of State for Health, Mr. Gabriel Aduku has called for continued research and development of Traditional Medicine-Practice in the country.
Mr. Aduku made the call in Abuja while launching the Nigerian Traditional Medicine policy on the occasion of the Fifth African Traditional Medicine Day. The Minister said research was important to provide further insight to the immense potential of African Traditional Medicine and break the myth surrounding it.
Mr. Aduku said that if well-harnessed, Traditional Medicine was capable of generating revenue for the West African sub-region. Mr. Aduku noted that the launching of the Nigerian Traditional Medicine policy would promote the interest of various stakeholders in the practice as well as create conducive environment for Nigerians to benefit from it.

Envoy believes Nigeria will become economic power in 2020
The outgoing Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Dirk-van Ecckhout is optimistic that if the level of economic activities already going in the country is sustained, Nigeria will be among the world leader in 2020.
To this end, Ambassador Ecckhout said a mutual protection agreement had been signed to enable both countries benefit from each other.
Ambassador Ecckhout dropped the hint at a reception organised in his honour by the Nigerian-Belgium Business Forum in Abuja. He said Belgium and Nigeria joint venture in the palm oil industry had also recorded a boost in the last three years.
Ambassador Ecckhout urged the media to guide the nation’s democracy jealously and called on them to be objective in their reportage.
Earlier, the convener of the reception and President, Nigeria-Belgium Business Forum, Doctor Obiora Okonkwo said both for the first time had signed an economy investment and trade protection agreement.
Foreign Affairs Correspondent reports that the reception by top shots of the society, including the Director General of FRCN, Mr. Ben Egbuna.

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270807

Professor Utomi states the need to promote locally made product
A renowned Economist, Professor Pat Utomi says the problem of inflation in the country is not that of Currency denomination but the issue of production.
Professor Pat Utomi stated this on Channel’s Television. He said there was need to introduce programmes that would encourage production to ensure that most of the items consumed in the country were produced locally.
The Professor maintained that even in the Oil Sector, the extent of local content in production was very minimal.
He said it was only through such policies that would encourage production, that the rate of inflation would be contained.

Benue State Government to monitor project contracts
 Benue State Government is to monitor contractors handling government projects in the state.
The Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Mr. Nena Shija stated this in Makurdi when members of the State House of Assembly Committee on Projects Monitoring and Implementation paid him a courtesy call.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Iyorkase Toor, the Commissioner urged the Committee to also monitor the performance of the Contractors.
Mr. Shija said the era when contractors jostled for Government contracts with the hope of abandoning them was over.
Speaking earlier, Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Innocent Anune, said the Assembly had evolved measures to ensure that it’s Committee carried out their oversight functions.
 

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240807

FRSC proffers reason for road hazards
The Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC says lack of political will on the part of those concerned at the various levels of Government is responsible for the persistent road hazards in the country.
The man overseeing the affairs of the Commission, Mr Osita Chidoka gave the hint at the meeting of the African Regional Group of International Road Safety Organisation in Abuja.
Mr Chidoka said about five thousand persons died while seventeen thousands were in injured in more than nine thousand road traffic accidents, last year in the country.
Presenting a paper, the ECOWAS Secretary General, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambers, said statistics had shown that over one million people die every year globally from road accidents and million injured.

Minister calls for simplified tax structure
Doctor Shamsudeen called on the Federal Inland Revenue Service to make the tax structure less complicated to enable people comply with the payment.
The Minister also use the opportunity to announce the present administration’s Economic Management Team, EMT, which comprises the Finance Minister as Chairman, Minister of National Planning, as Vice Chairman, Minister of State, Finance,, Minister of State, Petroleum, and Honorary Strategic Adviser to the President on Energy.
Other members of the team include Economic Adviser to the President, Deputy Governor, Economic Policy, CBN, Special Assistant to the President, Petroleum and Chairman Federal Inland Revenue Service.
The Present also approved the inclusion of the private sector like the Nigeria Economic Summit Group and the Nigeria Economic Society.
Minister vows to partner with States in industrial development
 The Federal Ministry of Commerce and Industry says it will join hands with State Governments, in the area of industrial development.
The man in-charge of the Ministry, Chief Charles Ugwu said when he received the Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi in Abuja, that the collaboration would promote Industry Initiatives in the country.
Chief Ugwu noted that for Nigeria to realize the vision 2020 Initiative, there was the need for diversification of productive ventures.
Earlier, Governor Peter Obi appealed for the support of the Ministry in creating a free trade zone in Anambra State, to be financed by the State Government.

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230807

Australian Govt. to strengthen ties with Nigeria in Steel Development
The minister of Mines and Steel Development, Chief Sarafa Tunji lsola says, the present administration is doing everything possible to make the country a mining destination for international investors.
Chief Tunji Isola stated this, when the Australian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jeffery Hart, paid him a visit. He said the federal government was working on a mining policy that would usher development in the country.
The Minister called on the Australian Government to partner with the local investors, especially in area of technical know-how.
Chief Isola said Australian, being a mining country, with extensive minerals and mining exploration, could be of immense relevance to the country, in the effort to open up the sector.
Earlier, the Australian High Commissioner, Jeffery Hart told Chief Isola that he was in the ministry to strengthen ties between his country and Nigeria, particularly in area of solid minerals exploration.

KUJE: village heads to maintain law and order                                                         
District and village heads in Kuje Area Council in the FCT have been urged to maintain law and order in their respective domain, for development and mutual co-existence.
The Council Chairman, Mr. Danladi Etsu Zhin, made the call while addressing traditional rulers in the area.
He said government would hesitate to depose or stop the salary of anyone of them, found encouraging violence in his domain.
Mr. Danladi Zhin commended the traditional rulers for their contribution to the socio-political development of Kuje Area Council.
He said his administration would purse a people orientated Programme as promised during electioneering campaign.

COREN expresses commitment to restore sanity in engineering practice
The Council for the Regulation of Engineering Practice Nigeria, COREN says it is committed to the restoration of sanity in practice of engineering in the country.
To this end, it has established the Engineering Regulation and Monitoring to check how companies in the construction industry conform to the standard of engineering practice.
The President of COREN, Alhaji Habu Gumel stated this while briefing journalists on preparations for the Sixteenth Engineering Assembly.
Alhaji Gumel speaks further on the mandate of COREN as it relates to the practice of the profession.
Alhaji Habu Gumel said COREN’s Tribunal would soon be inaugurated to deal with issues of quackery in the profession.

Para-millitary agencies to tackle security situations in the country
Following the upsurge of crime and criminality in some parts of the country, the need for government to beef up its security outfits has come to fore.  To address the situation, the Police and Prison Service, as well as other para-millitary agencies are to be repositioned to effectively tackle security situations in the country.
The man in charge of Ministry of Interior, Major General Godwin Abbe Retired, made this known when he received the Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido in Abuja.
The Interior Minister said to effectively implement the reforms, the Ministry would put heads together with all tiers of government to achieve the desired result.
Retired General Abbe stressed the need for state and local governments to give assistance to the police and other para-millitary formations in the area to enhance performance.
Earlier, the Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji sule Lamido appealed to the Interior Minister to as a matter of urgency, address inadequacies in prisons across the country.

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210807

RATTAWU wants support from FRCN

The Radio Television and Theater Arts Worker Union, RATTAWU, wants the support of Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, in the area of publicity to its forthcoming national delegate’s conference scheduled for October this year in Oyo Akwa-Ibom state.
The Vice President of the Union; Comrade Sunday Jethro made the appeal today when he lead executive member of the union to brief the Director General of FRCN; Mr Ben Egbuna on the event.
Comrade Jethro said the conference would feature election of new official to run the union for the next four years.

NASARAWA STATE: Gov. solicits support towards the dev. Of the state

The Nasarawa State Government says it will give priority to Human and Rural Development.
The Governor, Alhaji Aliyu Doma stated this at a reception in honour of some elected indigenes of Nasarawa West Senatorial District of the State.
Alhaji Doma therefore urges the people of the State to engage in activities that would ensure sustainable development of the State.
He also promised to take everybody along in the administration of the State, to harness their potentials.
Spokesman for the elected indigenes of Nasarawa West Senatorial District, Senator Abubakar Sodangi, gave an assurance of their support, towards speedy development of that State.

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200807 

IN and around Abuja
FCTA: Security is our priority
The federal Capital Territory Administration says security is the priority of the present administration.
To this end all security outfits operating in the territory are to be registered for effective monitoring.
The Landlord of the FCT, Alhaji Aliyu Modibbo made this known during a jaw-jaw with newsmen in Abuja.
He explained that the registration was also necessary to evolve a working relationship between government agencies, private outfits and residents in tackling the issue of security.
Alhaji Modibbo described security as a task that required the cooperation of all resident and called for support.

ABAJI enjoys free Medical Service
Residents of Abaji Area Council of the FCT are shouting Hurray as they enjoy a week long free Medical Service courtesy, the Area Council Administration.
At the commencement of the exercise, the Chairman, Alhaji Musa Yahaya Mohammed said plans were under way to recruit health personnel who will manage healthcare centres in the area to meet the health needs of the people.
Alhaji Yahaya appealed to the Administration to expedite action in providing medical facilities and drugs in hospitals for rural communities.
On the Television Booster Station in the Area, the Chairman appealed to the Authorities of FCDA to assist in its maintenance the Area Council cannot afford to shoulder such responsibility alone.
NERC to reduce arbitrary bills
The body controlling Electricity Consumption, the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission says it has perfected plans to reduce arbitrary billing of consumers.
To this end, it says it will soon release twelve million pre-paid metres in the next twelve months.
The man in charge of the Commission, Doctor Ransome Owan said in Abuja that these pre-paid metres would instill discipline in bills payment among consumers.
He also drew the ears of those consumers attempting to by pass metres to desist or face the wrath of the law.

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170807

NIPOST aims to upgrade its facilities nationwide

The Nigeria Service, NIPOST, says the current drive to upgrade its facilities nationwide was aimed at keeping peace with emerging global realities.
Chairman, NIPOST Governing Board, Alhaji Muritala Ashorobi stated this when the board met with the NIPOST Service Management in Abuja.
Alhaji Ashorobi said NIPOST was prepared to borrow ideas from the management of postal services in other parts of the world, where efficiency and productivity were publicly acknowledged.
He urged the Management to look inward on how best to benefit from the current wave of liberalisation of the economy where the private sector is a key player.

NAFDAC Boss appeals to Pakistani Govt to fight against counterfeit drugs

The Director General of the National agency for food, Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Professor Dora Akunyili has called on Pakistani Government not just to import drugs to Nigeria but to establish drug manufacturing companies to held fight the issue of counterfeit drugs.
Professor Akunyili made the appeal when the Pakistani High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mr. Khalid Durrani paid her a courtesy call at the Agency’s Headquarters in Abuja.
She said Nigeria had already established an economic relation with Pakistani and over one hundred different importers from that country had been registered by the agency.
Responding, Mr. Khalid Durrani noted that Pakistan was ready to partner with Nigeria.
He said free drugs worth five hundred thousand dollars had been donated to Nigeria to strengthen the tie between the two countries.
Mr Durrani said he was in NAFDAC to learn more about the activities of the agency.

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160807

Executive Director Radio Nigeria ANS advises parents

The Executive Director, Radio Nigeria Abuja National Station, Mallam Ibrahim Abdullahi says, the greatest legacy parents could bequeath to their children, is good education.
He stated this while receiving the Management of Madrasat Nurul Islam, Gwagwalada, Abuja.
Mallam Abudullahi who said that, he attaches great importance to issues of education noted no society can progress without impacting knowledge on its youths.
Mallam Abdullahi praised efforts of the Management, Staff and pupils of the School, which he said had accounted for the successes recorded so far.
Earlier, the Leader of delegation, Mallam Musa Abdullahi said, they were in Station to intimate the Management and Staff of Radio Nigeria Abuja National Station of the School’s first graduation ceremony to be held later this month.
Mallam Musa solicited moral and financial assistance for the Station to ensure the success of the ceremony.

Police promises to stop hostage taking in Niger-Delta

The issue of hostage taking will soon be a thing of the past, in the Niger-Delta Region.
This is because a police joint task force has been set in motion to curb the menace in those areas.
Force spokesman Haz Iwendi, dropped the hint today in Abuja, on police diary a Radio Nigeria Audience Participation Programme.
He said the task force would patrol the state and its environs.
Mr. Iwendi said, police operatives in Kogi State have also recorded tremendous success in smashing car-snatching gangs in the state.
  He said the task force in the state had arrested five of the car snatchers recently.
The Commissioner explained that during an interrogation, the suspects confessed that they carry out their operation along Lokoja Abuja road, at illegal police check points.
While in Delta State, seventeen student cultist, were arrested by the state command.

Five million naira fraud uncovered

The Anti- Corruption Committee set up by the Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, has uncovered a five million naira contract fraud.
Council Chairman, Alhaji Yahaya Mohammed set up the Committee, to probe contracts awarded by his predecessor, Alhaji Mohammed Loko.
Alhaji Mohammed told newsmen that the former administration awarded a contract for purchase of thirty five generators at an inflated cost.
He said the Committee discovered that, only fifteen generators were supplied, despite the fact that full payment was made.
The Chairman stated that the Committee was not set up to witch-hunt anybody, but to minimize mismanagement and institute transparency.

150807

NBA commends AG for observing Due Process

The Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, has commended the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Mike Aondoaka, SAN, in his efforts to follow the Due Process in the administration of Criminal Justice in the country. The President of the NBA, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba, in a letter also commended the streaming of activities of all enforcement agencies in the Criminal Justice sector with a view to ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions.
The Association expressed happiness at the vigorous application of the forty-eight hours rule for arraignment as guaranteed under the constitution.
The NBA suggested the convening of a stakeholder’s dialogue on the administration of criminal justice in the country.

News in and round Abuja
KUJE
Farmers in Kuje Area Council of the FCT have been urged to judiciously use farming inputs provided by the council for increased food production in this year’s farming season. The Council Chairman Mr. Danlandi Zhin made the call while flagging off the sale of fertilizer in Kuje.
Mr. Zhin said the Council decided to subsidize the sale of each bag by four hundred naira
He said new tractors and other modern farming implements would be purchased by the Council to aid farmers in mechanised farming system for bumper harvest.
Mr. Zhin also urged the farmers not to divert the fertilizer and warned that anybody caught would face the wrath.

Bwari Area Council

All Quack Doctors operating in Bwari Area Council are to be arrested and prosecuted.
The Helmesman of the Coucil, Isa Dara Bwari dropped the hint at a meeting with Health Officials in Bwari.
He noted with concern the activities of unqualified medical personnel which he said had resulted in the death of innocent people.

Mr. Isa Dara stated that a committee would be constituted to examine all the private hospitals in Bwari Arae Council with a view to closing down the unregistered clinics.
In a remark, the Head of Health Department, Dr Veronica Yamma thanked the council for approving the renovations of some Health centers and providing them with drugs.

Drug Peddler in NDLEA Net

A total of  one hundred wraps Cocaine weighing one point one zero none kilograms have been excreted by a drug courier, Mohammed Babatunde arrested by the NDLEA, while attempting to traffic the substance out of the country.

Mr. Ofoyeju Mitchell, the Agency’s Public Affairs Officer told News Agency of Nigeria that the suspect made four separate excretions of one hundred wraps weighing one point one zero nine kilograms so far.

Mr. Mitchell said the suspect was still under observation, while investigation continued.
Mohammed Babatunde was arrested on Sunday night as he was about to board a virgin Nigeria flight to London at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport.
Report says the suspect started excreting the substance on Monday with the first set of about sixty wraps.

The suspect confession had led to the manhunt of Lagos Socialite, Alhaja Toyin Igbria who the suspect had alleged as the brain behind the illict act.

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300707       
NMA expresses appreciation for the new appointment
The Nigeria Medical Association NMA has expressed appreciation to President Umar Musa Yar’Adua for appointing a Member of the Association as the Minister of Health.
A statement from the office of the Secretary General of the Association describes the appointment of Professor Adenike Grange as the Minister of Health as very positive practical and innovative step to improve the healthcare delivery system in the country.
The statement also commends the President for his painstaking efforts to put round pecks in round holes and his respect for the rule of law.
It expresses the commitment and support of NMA, to the President in the task of building a viable, sustainable and accessible to health care delivery system in the country.

FCT Minister visits some parts of the Territory

The Federal Capital Minister, Dr. Modibo Umar says his administration will give priority to security and environmental cleanliness in the territory.
The Minister was speaking in Abuja after going round some parts of the territory to assess the problems on the ground and ascertain the level of compliance with environmental standards.
Places visited by the Minister include Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, Garki districts and Area 1 Shopping Centre as well as AYA interchange under construction.Dr. Modibo was accompanied on the visit by the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Alhaji Mohammed Alhassan, his Chief staff, Adamu Ismaila, and the Managing Director, Abuja metropolitan Management Agency, Miss Jumai Kwanashie.

An institute for Africa culture to be established in Osun State:

An institute for Africa culture and international understanding is to be established in Osogbo, Osun State.
The institute which is to be funded by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation will integrate collections and materials of relevance for cultural heritage in the African region and Diaspora. The Osun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola announced in Osogbo at the inauguration of the State new Ministry of Culture and Tourism that the new Ministry would enable the State to harness the Tourism potential of the State.
The Governor called for private partnership in the quest to tap tourism resources as government would provide necessary incentives for would-be investors.

Monseignour Gabriel Osu admires Yar’Adua’s leadership

The Director of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Lagos, Monseignour Gabriel Osu, has commended President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua for his leadership style since assumption of office.
In an interview with Radio Nigeria in Lagos, Monseignour Osu described the manner President Yar’Adua handle the Labour and ASUU crisis, as a quality of exceptional receptiveness and patriotism.
Monseignour Osu  urged the President to urgently improve on the nation’s security as well as modify the National Housing Policy to enable all Nigerians have safe and decent accommodation.

Restriction of commercial motorcycles in Kwara State
In Kwara State, operation of commercial motorcycles will soon be restricted to between the hours of six o’clock in the morning and nine o’clock in the evening.
The restriction followed the passing of the Bill regulating the operational time for commercial motor cyclists in the state.
Offenders of the law will be liable to a fine not exceeding five thousand naira or six months in jail.

Zamfara State: DPR closes eleven filling stations
The Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, Kaduna Office, has closed eleven filling stations in Zamfara State for selling the products above the approved pump prices.
The Chief Technical Officer of DPR, Alhaji Mohammed Makera said in Gusau that some of the filling stations were also closed for non-display of prices on bill board, operating with sub-standard dispensing pumps and poor safety measures.
He said the Department would not relent in its efforts until filling stations sell at the approved pump prices.
Alhaji Makera warned marketers to desist from selling petrol in Jerry cans or other continues as the practice contravenes the laws.

The Ilorin Ultra Modern market is to be completed before the end of this year.
The State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative and Industries, Dr. Felicia Ojeleye told newsmen in Ilorin that the project was part of measures to enhance business activities in the area.
She expressed the commitment of the Government towards improving the well-being of the masses.
The Commissioner appealed to the public to protect the project from vandal.
The market has over six hundred shops, a police post, a clinic, and parking spaces for vehicles among others.
The project is estimated to cost about nine hundred million naira.

Lagos State Govt conclude plans to upgrade road networks
The Lagos State Government has concluded plans to upgrade two road networks in Ikorodu Local Government Area and the four point five kilometre Ago Palace road in Okota, Oshodi -Isolo Local Government Area of the State.
This is to further improve the free flow of traffic as well as open the access roads to and from the State.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Mr. Ganiyu Johnson told newsmen in Lagos, that the upgrade of roads was to ensure rapid soico-economic development of the State.
         
Election Petition in Uyo in Akwa Ibom State
The Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Uyo in Akwa Ibom State, has struck out the Petition filed by Emmanuel Obot, challenging the election of Elder Bassey Etim as the member representing Uyo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The Tribunal Chairman, Justice Nasir Ajana, before dismissing the petition by Counsel to the Petitioner, Mr. Uwemedimo Nwoko, said the petitioner was not qualified in the first instance, since he was not a candidate in the April twenty-eight National Assembly election.
Justice Ajana said the petition lacked merit based on its locus standing with rules governing the Tribunal, just as the Petitioner Emmanuel Obot, lacked a party platform to continue with the case.
His political Party the PDP has since expelled him from the Party.
The Tribunal therefore upheld the election of Elder Bassey Etim as the winner of the election into the Uyo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Dariye's bailed facing a forty-one count charge
 An Abuja High Court in Gudu District has granted bail to the former Governor of Plateau State, Chief Joshua Dariye facing a forty-one count charge for diverting public funds.
The Judge, Justice Adebukola Banjoko who granted the bail in the sum of one hundred million naira ordered that the accused should provide three sureties of whom must be a serving Senator.
The three Sureties must have landed properties in Asokoro, Central Business District or Maitama in Abuja.
The Trial Judge who was informed that the travelling documents of Chief Dariye were already deposited in a Federal High Court directed that a certificate for depositing them should be obtained and submitted to the court.
The bail is coming two weeks after Chief Dariye was granted a similar relief by a Federal High Court in Abuja where he is standing trial for money laundering.
In another development, Journalists were today barred by Security operatives from covering the trial of the leader of Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, Mr. Ralph Uwazuruike.
The Security Operatives, who said they were acting on the directive of their boss, also restrained the supporters of the MASSOB leader from entering the court premises.
However, Radio Nigeria gathered that the Trial Judge, Justice Binta Nyako fixed 18th of September to rule on the bail application filed by Mr. Uwazurike’s Lawyer, Mr. Festus Keyamo.
The date was fixed after the Counsel to the parties in the matter, concluded arguments on the bail application.

Kaduna State: Governor declares a state of emergency
Governor Mohammed Namadi Sambo of Kaduna State has declared a State of emergency in the areas of education, agriculture and power supply.
Inaugurating the new state Executive Council in Kaduna today, Governor Namadi Sambo explained that the emergency declaration was necessary to make the State a model of modern Nigeria.
Already a Bureau for Due Process and Price Intelligence unit has been created to guarantee transparency, accountability and good governance.
The Governor also called on public office holders to shun corruption, embezzlement and nepotism in all ramifications.
He charged the Commissioners to always carry along their subordinates in the implementation of government policies and programmes.
At the ceremony, twenty-six Commissioners took their oath of office with portfolios.

KOGI State: Governor assures the state a good service delivery
Governor Ibrahim Idris of Kogi State has given an assurance that his administration would fully equip and staff its primary health centres in different rural areas of the state for effective service delivery.
He gave the assurance at a reception organised in his honour by the people of his Icheke country home in Omala Local Government Area of the state.
Governor Idris said the administration was waiting for the completions of the rural health buildings before the equipment are moved in.
He urged the people of the state to remain supportive of the administration by being peaceful and law abiding to enjoy more democratic dividends.

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EKITI: GOVT. APPROVES NEW MINIMUM WAGE

The Ekiti State Government has approved nine thousand and three hundred Naira as the new minimum wage for its workers.

To this end the State Council of the Nigerian Labour Congress has suspended its six day old strike.

The workers had embarked on the Industrial Action following the non payment of the fifteen percent internal increase by the State Government.

The State Governor, Mr. Segun Oni, alongside representatives of the State joint negotiating Council as well as officials of the NLC and TUC from Abuja reached the agreement after six hour negotiation.

Governor Oni told newsmen after the agreement that he was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting.
Reports however suggest that most civil servants fail to turn up for duty in most of Government establishment.

LIBYA DISTRIBUTES FUNDS TO CHILDREN WITH HIV

Libya has begun distributing funds to the families of children with HIV under a deal that could free foreign medics condemned to death for infecting them.
Five Bulgarian nurses and a Palestinian doctor who were convicted of deliberately starting a HIV epidemic at a children’s hospital had denied the allegations.

Libya’s Supreme Court last week upheld the death sentences, placing their fate with the High Judicial Council.
       
The families of the infected children recently accepted a compensation deal with one million dollar per child.

NACA ADVOCATES COLLABORATION WITH NHRC

Director General, National Action Committee on Aids NACA, Dr. Babtunde Oshotimehin, has called for collaboration between his agency and the National Human Rights Commission to ensure the passage of the anti-discrimination bill.

The Anti-discrimination bill is to tackle issues relating to how people living with HIV/AIDS and any disability in the work place and society at large.

Professor Oshotimenhin made the call today when he paid a visit to the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Mrs. Kehinde Ajoni in Abuja.

He said if the initial right base approach was maintained, the world would have been better for it.
       

FCT NDLEA on Drug-related Arrests / Convictions

The NDLEA, FCT Command says it arrested sixty three suspected drug peddlers and obtained sixteen convictions this year.    

The Commandant, Mrs. Victoria Igbase told news-hunters in Gwagwalada that cannabis weighing over two kilograms other substances were also seized.

According to the drug buster “the court sentences ranged from three months to two years, depending on the quantity of the substances arrested from the convicts.”

She appealed for more funding and provision of operational vehicles to enable the command effectively deal with the rising cases of drug abuse in the FCT.
Sixty three suspected drug peddlers are presently in the net of the FCT National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to say what they know about some substances and cannabis weighing over two kilograms.
         
FCT NDLEA Boss, Mrs. Victoria Igbase told journalists in Gwagwalada that punishments ranging from three months to two years imprisonment would be slammed on suspects.
Satellite Towns Development Agency Urges Fast-tracking of Dev.

The Chairman, Abaji Area Council, FCT, Alhaji Yahaya Musa Mohammed is not happy with the slow pace of development in the Satellite towns of the Territory.

He therefore wants the Satellite Towns Development Agency to wake up to its responsibility of fast-tracking the development of rural communities.

The Chairman was speaking at the inauguration of new Special Advisers, Special Assistants and Council Secretary.

Alhaji Yahaya Musa praised the decision of the FCT Administration to site a University of Science and Technology in Abaji, pledging the support of the Council for the success of the project.

He urged the political appointees to be prepared to work hard for the success of the administration.

CHIMAROKE NNAMANI REPORTS FOR SWEARING IN

Speculations on the whereabout of the former number one citizen of Enugu State and now Senator Elect, Chimaroke Nnamani has been layed to rest.
This is because Chimaroke Nnamani who was absent during the handing over to his successor and inauguration of the New Senators has now resurfaced.

Senator Chimaroke Nnamani was at the National Assembly on Tuesday to register with the Clerk as a Senator Elect.

In an interview with news-hunters, Senator Chimaroke Nnamani said he would continue to be a team player in the Nation’s Democratic Process.
                            
National Assembly correspondent Noah Alabi Ogohi reports that Senator Chimaroke Nnamani was the only Senator Elect that was absent at the inauguration of the New Senate on the fifth of this month.

FCDA Awards Mega Contracts

The Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA, has signed contract agreement with a multi-national construction company for the completion of major roads network within the Federal Capital City.

The forty-nine billion naira contract also includes the relocation of the Abuja City Gate and the construction of thirty-four bridges and one hundred and eight units of retaining walls.

Speaking on the occasion, the Director, Engineering Services, FCDA, Mr. Sylvester Ugonabo said it was one of the largest packages awarded by past administration for the growth of the FCT.

The Executive Secretary, FCDA, Alhaji Mohammed Alhassan urged the contractor to deliver the project on schedule.
That’s not all. Major road network under construction will also be completed.
To achieve this, the Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA has signed a forty nine billion naira contract agreement with a multi national construction company.

SPRING BANK: BOARD DISSOLVES, FACE POSSIBLE SANCTIONS
The Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation has dissolved the Board of Spring Bank and reconstituted another Board to be chaired by Mr. Vincent Omoika, former Director Banking Operation.
A statement from the Central Bank of Nigeria and read by the CBN Governor, Professor Charles Soludo said the decision followed the discovery that the former Board was incapable of repositioning the bank in line with the banking sector reform agenda.
                                     
Professor Soludo assured all depositors of Spring Bank that their money is safe and they should go about their normal banking business with Spring Bank.
The CBN Boss said the Apex Bank and the NDIC are compiling offences of the various Directors and Management of Legacy Groups and will ensure that appropriate sanctions are applied and report same to the EFCC and the police for further criminal investigations and prosecution.

The dissolution of the Board of Spring Bank is in line with the announcement by the CBN last year that the Apex Bank would undertake post consolidation re-verification of capital.

FCT FADAMA PROJECT TO BOOST FOOD PRODUCTION

FCT Fadama II scheme has completed over ninety percent of its projects amounting to over six point five Million Dollars out of the seven million budgeted for the programme.

The main incharge of the project in the FCT, Mr. Nike Uwazie said in an Interview with Radio Nigeria that the success recorded by the Fadama II Project had lead to its merger with the Agricultural Development Programme ADP.

Mr. Uwazie noted that the merger would not only consolidate the achievement of the Fadama II project but boost food production in the FCT.

FOLASHADE CANVASSES SUPPORT FOR SPEAKER

In another development.
A Women Rights Activist, Mrs. Grace Folashade Jackson wants the speaker, House of Representatives Mrs. Patricia Etteh to discharge her duties effectively especially in the empowerment of women.
She made the call in a statement in Abuja.
Mrs. Folashade who expressed optimism that the new speaker would live up to expectations, urged members of the House to support her to achieve the set objectives.

She noted that in the past women were not given the opportunity to serve, despite their huge potentials in national building.

FEMALE PRESIDENT SOUGHT FOR 2011
Some Nigerian Women under the auspices of Women for Yar’Adua and Jonathan said more women in President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s cabinet is not a bad idea.
Like Oliver Twist, they are asking for more.

The President of the group Mrs. Debora Philips made the call in a chat with the Senate press corps.

She said the call became necessary in view of the transparency and dedication exhibited by women who held various positions in the last administration.

The emergence of one of their own, Mrs. Patricia Etteh as the speaker, House of Representatives according to her should serve as impetus for more women in politics.
She appealed to the media to be objective and balanced in their reportage.
                            
Mrs. Philip is optimistic that Nigeria will produce a female President in 2011 if the present political tempo is maintained.

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PLATEAU STATE PUBLIC SERVANTS CALL OFF STRIKE

Public Servants in Plateau State have suspended the six weeks old strike.
An agreement to that effect was singed in Jos between the Government and representatives of the labour unions.
Part of the agreement was the immediate payment of the backlog of April and May, 2007 salaries.
Also included is the monthly instalment payment of the salary arrears of Local Government employees and outstanding leave transport grant of Primary School teachers by a committee set up for that purpose.
Some of the Local Government workers are being owed upwards of ten months salary arrears and over two year of leave transport allowance.

NAPEP: RECEIVES GRANT
Federal Government has earmarked over five billion Naira as grant for the educational training of children from poorest families in the country towards.
In addition, some monthly stipend will be given to the parents for the upkeep of the children.
The Secretary of the National Poverty Eradication Programme, NAPEP, Alhaji Abdul Ganiyu Obatoyinbo announced this today in Abuja at a stakeholders meeting on a new scheme of the programme, called conditional cash transfer.
The ceremony reports that the grant was taken from the debt relief gains fund for 2007.

TRADITIONAL RULER: ADVISES LEADERS
The traditional ruler of Obibi-Ochasi in Orlu, Imo State, Eze Jude Mbamara has advised the new legislative and executive arms of government to work harmoniously for effective governance.
Eze Mbamara in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Abuja asked governments at all level to make equity and openness their watchwords for sustainable democracy.
He urged the authorities to effectively engage traditional rulers in relating with the people and to ensure that only credible individuals ascend traditional leadership.
Eze Mbamara, advised on the Imo State Government to be careful about sycophants in the interest of the people.
           

BUSH: WEAPONS DEVELOPMENT NOT TARGETED AT RUSSIA
President George Bush of the United States has assured that its planned missile shield is not targeted at Russia but against States like North Korea and Iran.
He therefore said the issue should not cause a row between both nations.
President Bush who is slated to meet with the Russian President later today said the Russia could send some of its Generals to the U.S to clear issues about the planned missile shield.
President Putin has however rejected the U.S claims about the proposed shield and threatened to also set up similar projects in Europe.

BENUE GOVT. TO PROVIDE BORE HOLES

The Lower Benue River Basin Development Authority plans to drill ninety bore boles this year as against seventy last year.
It is also to harness other resources of River Benue to enable States in its catchments area to compete favourably in the production of tomatoes and other agricultural products.
The Managing Director of the Authority, Mr. Musa Usman told a news conference in Makurdi that the decisions were in line with Federal Government’s directive.
Mr. Usman said the organisation has equally been mandated to take measures for the use of the dams for the generation of electricity.
The Federal Government is liaising with the Benue State Government to revive the abandoned greater Makurdi Water Supply to check the acute water shortage in the area.

AFRICAN LEADERS AT THE SUMMIT
Some selected African Leaders will tomorrow hold talks with leaders of the eight most industrialised nations, the G-8 at their on-going 33rd Summit in Heiligendamm, Germany.
They are leaders of Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Ghana, South Africa and Ethiopia.
The Nigerian President Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’adua is expected to hold preparatory meetings and consultations with other leaders in the German Capital.

GOMBE.ID CARD

Gombe State Government says it will not hesitate to report any official of the directorate of National Civic Registration, found wanting in the distribution of the National ID Card.
Governor Danjuma Goje who was represented by his Deputy Dr. John Lazarus gave the warning in Gombe when he received some of the ID Cards on behalf of the Governor.
Governor Goje said the successful production of the cards had convinced sceptics that the scheme was for real and appealed to the people of Gombe to make sure that they collected their ID cards.
In a speech, the Director of DNCR, Alhaji Wahab Jimoh warned that any official who demanded for gratification before issuing the ID card or before registering any Nigerian would be prosecuted.
Alhaji Jimoh noted that Gombe was the only state in the federation that provided office accommodation for DNCR in ten out of the eleven local government councils in the state.
So far, the DNCR has distribution the National ID cards in twenty seven states of the federation and Abuja.

NIGERIAN WOMEN: ETTEH GOOD CHOICE
Some Nigerian Women have applauded the election of Mrs Patricia Olubunmi Etteh as the first female Speaker of the House of Representatives.
In an interview with correspondent, Adenike Adegoke most women see Mrs Etteh’s election as a celebration of Nigerian womanhood.

One of the respondents, Lady Comfort Ani, President of the Young Women’s Christian Association described Mrs Etteh as a focused and hardworking woman.
Also speaking, the President of the National Council of Women Societies, Lagos State Chapter, Princess Sidikat Disu urged her to encourage the passage of the Child’s Right Bill in states where they have not been passed.
           
That was Princess Sidikat Disu commending the election of Mrs Olubunmi Etteh as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

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ADICHIE WINS ORANGE BROADBAND PRIZE
This is good news for Nigerians in the artistic community.
A Nigerian Novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has emerged winner of this year’s Orange Broadband Prize for fiction.

Chimamanda beat five other contenders, including Kiran Desai to win the thirty thousand pounds prize money.

Her Novel, Half a Yellow Sun, set during the Biafran War of the 1960s is her second work, and it examines ethnic allegiance and moral responsibility.
The 30 year old Chimamanda Ngozi is from Abia State.
The New Writer’s Award. Worth ten thousand pounds was presented to Keran Connelly for her Novel, The Lizard Cage.

SENATE: NNAMANI CONGRATULATES MARK

The former Boss of the Senate, Ken Nnamani has felicitated with the Newly Elected Senate President, David Mark.

In a message, Senator Nnamani said he was delighted that the Senate President emerged through democratic election and not by selection.

wishing the new Senate Leadership the best as it braces up for the challenges ahead, Senator Nnamani urged the Senate President to serve the Nigerian Senate well and promote its influence in Africa and the World.

N/ASSEMBLY: LOWER HOUSE SETS UP COMMITTEES

The Leadership of the Lower Chamber of the National Assembly has set up three special committees to enable it settle down to work.
The Committees are on selection, rules review and welfare.
Chairman of the Rules Review Committee, Chief Ita Enang who stated this while addressing National Assembly correspondent said the Committee has up to the 19th of this month to submit its report.

Chief Ita Enang explained that the adjournment of the House till the nineteenth of this month was to allow the special Committees to complete their assignments and submit their reports on time.

POLICE SETS ANTI- CORRUPTION TEAM.

The Police Authorities say it has set up twelve anti-corruption teams in the country.

There will be two each in the six geo-political zones.

The Force Image-Maker, Commissioner of Police, Haz Iwendi let the cat out of the bag during Police Diary, the Radio Nigeria Public enlightenment Programme.

Mr. Iwendi said road blocks hitherto mounted by the Police Nationwide had been dismantled.

He said the anti-corruption teams would be given dedicated telephone lines that would be made available to the public to call in case of emergencies.

He said necessary logistics had been provided to the anti-corruption teams to enable them discharge their responsibilities creditably.

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IN AND AROUND ABUJA

KUJE        
In Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Supervisory Councillors have been asked to come up with proposals on people’s oriented programmes for the betterment of the Area.
The Man in charge of the Area, Mr. Danladi Etsu Zhin gave the directive while swearing-in the Councillors in Kuje.
Mr. Zhin also called on the councillors to have listening ears for their people so as to enable them articulate their proposals very well.
He restated his determination to initiate projects that would ensure quality transformation at the grassroots level.

GWAGWALADA
“I am prepared to accommodate constructive criticisms that will better the lots of the people” these are the words of the man in charge of Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory, Alhaji Zakari Angulu Dobi.

At a roundtable discussion with some community leaders who visited him in his office to pay homage, Angulu Dobi appealed for patience to enable his administration provide them with dividends of democracy.

He also urged residents of the Area to give him the maximum support he needed for his administration to succeed.

AMAC
Better times are here for residents of Abuja Municipal Area Council as the Council’s Boss; Mr. Zephaniah Citrus Jisalo has sworn-in the Chief Scribe, five Supervisory Councillors and five Advisers.
Mr. Bitrus Jisalo told the appointees to be prepared to work with him to enable him fulfil his electioneering campaign promises to the people.
On their part, the appointees pledged to abide by their Oath of Office. Our man, Mathew Ayoola reports that political associates, friends and family members of the appointees attended the occasion.

KOGI : GOVERNOR TASKS THE ASSEMBLY
In Kogi the Chief Executive of that state Ibrahim Idris calls on the State Law-makers to make laws that will impact positively on the lives of the people.
The Governor made the call while proclaiming the first sitting of the House in Lokoja.
He appealed for a harmonious working relationship between the House and the Executive to facilitate decision-making on issues of paramount importance to the people.
Governor Idris said a number of programmes have been lined up for further development of the state and consolidation on the present achievements.

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IGBO GROUP SUPPORTS YAR'DUA
A socio-cultural group known as the Igbo Progressive Community has given kudos to President Yar’Adua on his assumption of office, but wants him to form an all-inclusive government in the interest of democracy.

At a media parley in Abuja, the Coordinator, Chief Emma Ukaegbu requested the new administration to initiate policies that will liberate the masses from economic hardship.

Only such people-friendly programmes could ensure social justice, Chief Ukaegbu said.

NLC THREATENS STRIKE ACTION
The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC says it will ask workers to stop work in the next two weeks, unless the Federal Government reversed some actions taken towards the end of the last administration.
In a statement at the end of an Emergency Central Working Committee meeting in Abuja, the NLC appealed to the present administration to reverse the measures to prevent a painful disruption of the economic life of the nation.
Labour Congress is particularly not happy with VAT and the non-implementation of the fifteen percent salary increase for public sector employees.
Others are the non-payment of two years monetization arrears to some workers, non-payment of severance package to disengaged workers and the hurried sale of Port Harcourt and Kaduna Refineries.
The statement signed by the NLC President, Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar described its demand as genuine.

IPAS: REVEALS HIGH MORTALITY RATE IN NIGERIA

Do you know that women die in Nigeria from pregnancy related causes than in more populous countries like Inida?
Well an International Non-Government Organization working in the area of women’s health, IPAS, believes this is true and wants efforts to be intensified to check the situation in the country.        

The Country Boss of the Organization, Doctor Ejike Orji who is just back from India attributed the low rate of maternal mortality in that country to certain measures put in place by the government.

Doctor Orji said certain circumstances can make pregnancy unacceptable to a woman but however noted with regret that many women had either been killed or maimed in the process of trying to terminate such unwanted pregnancies.

The IPAS Country Director also appealed to the government to critically look into ways of making pregnancy safer in the country.

Doctor Orji said adequate information and services should be provided if the maternal mortality rate in the country must be reduced.
Our man, Godwin Odemejie reports that about fifteen thousand women in Nigeria die annually from unsafe abortion.

U.S GOVERNMENTSUPPORTS PROJECTS IN THE NORTH.

The U.S Government has allocated more than one and a half million Dollars for the execution of Water Supply, Agricultural and Educational Development Projects in Northern Nigeria.

U.S Stewart to Nigeria, Mr. John Campbell said at the inauguration of Garko and Darki Seed Storage facilities in Kano State that the U.S Office of Defence Cooperation in Partnership with USAID would construct boreholes, seed storage facilities and rehabilitate schools in the region.
The Ambassador announced that the aim was to ensure self-sufficiency in communities in the Northern region.

Earlier, Mr. Campbell had distributed textbooks to the Government Girls’ College, Dala, Kano to launch the distribution of books to sixty schools in the North.
He said more than eleven thousand volumes of books would be presented under the arrangement.
Mr. Campbell explained that the American Government has committed to supporting Nigeria’s goal of providing quality education to every child in the country.

TAYLOR GOES ON TRIAL

Former Liberian President, Charles Taylor is to go on trial today at the International Court of Justice at the Hague to answer to charges of war crimes.

Taylor is accused of murder and the use of fund from diamonds to fuel the conflict in neighboring Sierra Leone during his eight-year reign.

The former rebel leader was arrested in Nigeria last year after he had tried to escape from temporary exile in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.

BBC AWARDEE ADVISES ASUU TO CALL OFF STRIKE
A student of University of Jos and the winner of several international competitions, including the BBC’s postmark, Mr. Charles Achile Akoh have advised the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to call off its strike.
He made the call when he visited Kapital FM.
The innocent Nigerian students were now confused and disillusioned because of the continuous degradation of the academic sector as a result of the intermittent strike by the ASUU.
He appealed to ASUU to show compassion on the would-be leaders of tomorrow.

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EHINDERO BIDS FAREWELL TO FORCE
The nation’s number one crime fighter, Sunday Ehindero is to bid the Police Force a final goodbye today.

Already, officers and men of the Force are due to pull him out at a colourful parade at the Eagle Square.

Also the Police helmsman in the FCT, Lawrence Alobi bowed out yesterday after thirty-five years in service.

At a farewell speech in Abuja, the top cop said his years as the FCT Police boss was most challenging and fulfilling.

Mr. Alobi said about six hundred and fifty-two armed robbery suspects are in the police net, while over eight hundred ammunitions and two hundred and ten vehicles were recovered by the Command in the last two years.  
 
In a remark, the man in-charge of Abuja Municipal Area Council, Mr. Zephaniah Jisalo described Mr. Alobi as one of the best police officers in the country and asked him to be the Security Adviser to the Council.
Mr. Lawrence Alobi served as the number one crime fighter in the FCT from July fifteen, two thousand and five.

HOME ECONOMICS EDUCATION

When Home Economics is mentioned, it is food that comes to mind.
However, the Home Economics Teachers’ Association of Nigeria says it is not only food but other aspects like home, clothing and the environment that are the subjects of the discipline.
The President of the Association, Mrs. F. Kayode told the gathering to mark the two thousand and seven World Home Economics Day, that efforts should be intensified to encourage the teaching and learning of Home Economics in schools.
She also called for a training of Home Economics teachers to prepare them for challenges of modern Home Economics.
The occasion featured exhibition, hand-woven clothes, tie and dye and food items.
The theme of this year’s World Home Economics Celebration is “Home Economics Education, a Tool for Youth Empowerment.”

KINGIBE TAKES OVER AS SGF

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Alhaji Baba Gana Kingibe has called for cooperation and understanding from all Nigerians to help President Umar Yar’Adua succeed.

Alhaji Kingibe made the appeal in Abuja at the formal take-over ceremony from Chief Ufot Ekaette who served as Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, for eight years.
He urged civil servants to be loyal, dedicated and be more inspiring.
The former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Ekaette congratulated Alhaji Kingibe on his appointment and described the office of the SGF as the policy nerve centre of the Federal Government.
The major responsibility of the office is to ensure effective coordination and monitoring of the implementation of Government policies and programmes for the overall development of the country.

JAMB: EXAMINATION MALPRACTICES

Joint Admission and Matriculation Boards JAMB says over three hundred candidates committed examination malpractices and another twenty one thousand cases are being investigated for various examination irregularities.

The man Piloting Affairs of the Board Professor Dibu Oferinde made this known in Abuja while announcing the results of the two thousand and seven University Matriculation Examination.

Professor Ojerinde said the Board would introduce sophisticated technologies to check examination malpractices. 
The JAMB Registrar however frowned at the down ward trend of applications for Education and Agricultural Courses of the University Matriculation Examinations.

Professor Ojerinde stressed the importance of education and Agricultural Courses in the Socio-economic and Political development of the country.