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The case was brought on behalf of thirty thousand Africans who said they were injured by the hazardous substance.
The United Nations said there was strong evidence that death and injuries reported in Cote D’Ivoire were related to the incident.
The waste was reportedly generated by a multi-national oil company with bases in London, Amsterdam and Geneva.
The company had persistently denied that the waste was dangerous to human health.
# # #
TRAINING ACADEMY: Singapore Investors to collaborate with Nigeria
Investors from Singapore seek to collaborate with Nigeria in setting up a Training Academy for workers in the construction industry.
The President, Contractors Association of Singapore, Mr. Andrew Khan who led a delegation on a fact finding mission to the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, NIPC, in Abuja said that Nigeria was a country in transition that needed expertise to grow.
Mr. Khan explained that both middle management and project managers would be involved in the training.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, represented by the Director, Administration and Supply, Mr. Steve Amase told the delegation that enabling environment would be created for them to invest in the country.
Mr. Amase said there was a need for exchange of ideas and expertise if the country must overcome its challenges.
# # #
BANKING SECTOR: Court grants bail to 8 bank executives
A Federal High Court in Lagos has granted bail to the remaining eight bank executives arraigned before it by the EFCC.
They include Okey Nwosu of Fin Bank and the Chairman of Intercontinental Bank, Raymond Obieri as well as six Directors of the same bank.
Each of them was granted bail in the sum of one hundred million naira and two sureties in like sum.
The Court presided over by Justice Abutu had earlier granted bail to three bank executives.
Justice Abutu announced that the trial of the first three persons granted bail would come up on the 25th of November this year.
This trial of the others will commence on the first of December this year.
# # #
FRCN Board applauds rule of law
The current rule of law in Nigeria has been described as a revolutionary trend where the oppressed could go to the Court to seek redress.
The Chairman Board of Directors of FRCN Chief Oyelayefa Debekeme stated this during a working visit to Paramount FM Abeokuta.
Chief Debekeme said for the first time in the political history of Nigeria, opposition could go to Court and get justice.
The Chairman gave an assurance that all the equipment of Radio Nigeria Stations would be digitalized in accordance with world standards.
The FRCN Training school would be repositioned to a degree awarding institution to meet the modern training and retraining of the staff.
The Chairman said the Board would soon come up with series of staff motivation policies without compromising discipline.
Chief Debekeme stated that every step was being taken to ensure the completion of yet to take off FM Stations nationwide.
# # #
NDE: DG calls on Govt to embark on solar energy training
The Director General of the National Directorate of Employment NDE, Mallam
Abubakar Muhammed has called on government at all levels and other stakeholders to embark on Solar energy training for youths as part of effort to generate employment and to meet the power needs of the country.
Mallam Muhammed made the call in Asaba at the start of the maiden solar energy training scheme for unemployed graduates.
The Director General who was represented by one of the Directors in his Organisation, Mr. James Omotayo said that the scheme was designed to explore the nation’s untapped potential to generate employment for national development.
Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan commended the efforts saying it would not only generate employment, but also boost the nation’s economy.
# # #
TRIBUTE: Ondo State hosts dignitaries as Gani is laid to rest
The ancient town of Ondo in Ondo State will play host to hundreds of dignitaries from all walks of life as the remains of legal luminary and Human Rights Activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi is being laid to rest.
Reports say more than one thousand security operatives have been deployed to compliment the strength of the State Police Command to ensure orderliness.
The body of the patriot was lying-in-state at the State Capital, Akure during which glowing tributes were paid to his memory by many eminent Nigerians.
In one of such tributes, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu extolled the virtues of Gani Fawehinmi which he said included consistency and passion for the welfare of the masses.
A former Secretary to the Federal Government, and one time Presidential Candidate, Chief Olu Falae, described the late Gani as an embodiment of truth and an advocate of the war against corruption.
In his tribute, the leader of the movement for the survival of Ogoni people, Mr. Ledum Mitee praised Gani’s patriotism and consistency.
A representative of the Senate President, Senator Bode Olajumoke described the late Gani as a man of immeasurable courage.
Meanwhile, a World Class Diagnostic Center is to be established by the Ondo State government in honour of the late legal luminary, Chief Gani Fawehinmi.
Governor Olusegun Mimiko announced this at the lying-in-state ceremony.
# # #
POVERTY REDUCTION: Sokoto Govt distributes buses to individuals
One hundred and fifty buses have been distributed to individuals and private organisations on loan basis under the Sokoto State Poverty Reduction Programme.
Governor Aliyu Magatakarda Wamako on the occasion at the Government House, Sokoto explained that the measure was to intensify the fight against poverty, unemployment and boost transportation in the state.
Each of the buses is given out at three million naira as against the market price of four million naira.
# # #
POWER: Satisfy consumers, NERC directs stakeholders
All Organizations involved in electricity generation, transmission and distribution havebeen directed to comply immediately with safety and health regulations in the Industry.
The Head of Legal, Licensing and Enforcement of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, Mrs. Olufunke Dinneh, gave the directive at a Stakeholders Forum in Abuja.
She observed that some of the affected Organizations were yet to fully comply with the safety Codes despite series of warning.
Mrs. Dinneh pledged Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring that consumers were not exposed to exorbitant tariffs. She also explained that the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission would continue to ensure that consumers derive maximum satisfaction from electricity providers.
# # #
COMMUNICATIONS: FG to ensure GSM operators improve services
The Federal Government says steps are being taken to ensure that GSM operator improve their services.
The Minister of Information and Communications, Professor Dora Akunyili stated this in her office during a meeting with the Secretary General of the International Telecommunication Union, I.T.U, Dr. Hamadoun Toure.
The Secretary of the I.T.U was accompanied to the meeting by the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission, Mr. Ernest Ndukwe.
# # #
REFORM: Minster explains increase in inland charges within FCT
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Alhaji Adamu Aliero, says the increase in land charges within the FCT was approved by the Federal Executive Council as part of measures to generate more revenue for the provision of infrastructure.
Addressing National Assembly newsmen, after a meeting with the Senate Committee on the FCT, Alhaji Adamu expressed his readiness to implement all approved policies in the development of the nation’s capital.
The FCT Minister also explained what the Capital Territory Administration was doing to check the perennial traffic jam along Abuja/Keffi Expressway.
The Senate has urged the management of the Federal Capital Territory Administration to revert to the old rates on land premium.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on the FCT, Senator Abubakar Sondangi, told the FCT Minister that the increase in land rates did not comply with the nation’s Land Use Act as the National Assembly was not consulted as stipulated by law.
# # #
APGA: Court restrains INEC
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has restrained the Independent National Electoral
Commission, INEC, from giving effect to the decisions taken at the convention of the All Progressives Grand Alliance convened by Chief Chekwas Okorie.
At the convention held on the second of this month, Governor Peter Obi of Anambra State, Chief Victor Umeh and Alhaji Sani Shinkafi were said to have been sacked from APGA.
The court, presided over by Justice Gabriel Kolawole ordered INEC not to act on the resolutions reached at the convention until the suit seeking to establish the authentic leader of APGA was determined by the court.
The ruling followed a motion brought by Chief Victor Umeh informing the court that its order of first September, 2009, suspending the Chief Okorie led convention was disobeyed.
However, counsel to Chief Okorie, Mr. Godwin Uche told the court that they were not served with the order restraining them from holding the convention.
Chief Umeh expressed satisfaction with the ruling. Hearing in the substantive suit was adjourned to the 29th of this month.
# # #
COMMUNICATION: FRCN & Eriksson to explore possible areas of mutual benefits
Radio Nigeria and Electronic giant, the Eriksson Group began talks in Abuja to explore
possible areas of mutual benefits.
The chairman of the FRCN Board of Directors, Chief Bolayefa Debekeme, said the collaboration would be of great benefit to Radio Nigeria especially in the area of clean signals.
Chief Debekeme said despite the numerous challenges being faced by the Corporation, it had embarked on the upgrade of its equipment nationwide.
The Managing Director of the Eriksson Group, Mr. Leif Edwall, proposed a follow-up meeting between the two parties to discuss further on specific areas of co-operation.
The Nigeria Ambassador to Spain, Mr. Bola Igali, who was also part of the talks, expressed the hope that the visit would further enhance broadcasting in the country.
The Director-General of FRCN, Mallam Yusuf Nuhu presented to the guests some vital documents about the Corporation.
# # #
OSOPADEC: Chairman suggests establishment of Agency
The Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission,
OSOPADEC, Prince Debo Ajimuda, has suggested the establishment of an Agency that will ensure that oil companies comply with environmental laws.
Prince Ajimuda made the suggestion during an inspection visit to some oil producing communities in Ondo State.
He said the enforcement of the law would minimize cases of oil spillage which had remained a major cause of environmental hazards to the people in the Niger Delta region.
The OSOPADEC Chairman urged the Federal Government to sanction any oil company that failed to address oil spillage in the region.
Prince Ajimuda urged the militants in Ondo State to embrace the amnesty offer by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua to enhance the development of the State.
# # #
ANAMBRA: Governorship election holds February 2010
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has fixed the Anambra State
Governorship election for Saturday sixth February, 2010.
A statement by Abdullahi Kaugama, the Secretary of INEC, indicates that all registered political parties are entitled to participate and sponsor candidates for the election.
According to the statement, the tenure of Governor Peter Obi expires on the seventeenth of March 2010.
The Commission said it would strictly apply the provisions of all relevant laws governing the election to ensure a credible exercise.
The statement urged the public, particularly the registered political parties to abide by section 221 of the 1999 Constitution which prohibits associations other than political parties from canvassing for votes for any candidate or contributing to the funds of any political party or election expenses of any candidate.
# # #
UATH: Dr Alabi calls for the development of Intensive Care Units
The Chief Medical Director of the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Dr. Peter Alabi has
called for Public-Private Partnership in the development of the Intensive Care Units in all the Teaching Hospitals nationwide.
This is to reduce the high rate of premature deaths in the country.
Dr. Alabi said at the opening of a four week training for Nurses in the Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital that lack of Modern equipment was contributing to the Low Performance of Health Care Workers.
The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Millennium Development goals, Hajia Sa’adatu Sani, suggested the upgrading of equipment in Intensive Care Units in all Government Hospitals to address the High rate of infant and maternal mortality.
# # #
HUMAN RIGHT: Minster calls for implementation of policies on women & youths
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Salamatu Sulaiman, has called
for the implementation of existing policies on women, youths and physically challenged persons.
The Minister said available records indicated that the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development was not receiving enough budgetary allocations.
Mrs. Sulaiman made the request during an advocacy visit to the Minister of finance, Mr. Mansur Muktar.
The Minister of Finance said that it was important to allocate adequate resources to women and youths since they constitute more than seventy percent of the county’s population.
Dr. Muktar noted that issues concerning women and youths should not be the sole responsibility of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development but should be spread across all sectors.
# # #
Goje commends FG for completion of the Kano-Maiduguri road
Governor Danjuma Goje of Gombe State says the completion of the dualisation of
the Kano-Maiduguri road will ensure improved socio economic activities and reduce accidents in the North East zone.
Addressing a cross-session of people in the State Capital the Governor commended the Federal Government for embarking on the project and for awarding contract for the rehabilitation of the Gombe –Numan –Yola road, describing it as a former death trap.
Governor Goje appealed to the Federal Government to award another contract for the rehabilitation of the Gombe – Biu road because of its deplorable condition.
He noted that the Gombe Bye pass and the Nafada Gombe Abba roads had been included in this year’s Federal Government budget but was yet to be awarded.
The Governor expressed the hope that the two roads would not suffer the fate of the Gombe Bye pass which he said had appeared five consecutive times in the Federal Government budget but was yet to be awarded.
The call, he said, had become necessary because of the importance of the roads to the people.
# # #
REBRANDING: Ogbulafor calls on religious leaders to educate their followers
The National Chairman of PDP, Prince Vincent Ogbulafor has called on religious
leaders to educate their followers on the rebranding project of the Federal Government.
Prince Ogbulafor made the call during the inauguration of Knights of St. John International of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Wuse, Abuja.
He said spiritual leaders were in the best position to inculcate the tenets of the rebranding in their followers for the envisaged change in the country.
The Reverend Father Ralph Madu urged Christians to respect every human being irrespective of their tribe and tongue.
Reverend Father Madu stressed that the gap between the poor and the rich in the society was too wide for the nation to realize the goal of becoming one of the twentieth economies in the world.
# # #
Yar’Adua directs MDGs Office to set up C’ttee on effective implementation
President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua has directed the Millennium Development Goals
Office to set up a committee to work out strategies that will ensure effective implementation of eight MDGS
The committee to be chaired by Governor Bukola Saraki has the Ministers of Finance and National Planning, a member of the National Assembly and a representative of the World Bank as members.
At a meeting with key stakeholders on the Millennium Development Goals held in Abuja, President Yar’Adua gave the committee four weeks to complete the Assignment.
The end of the meeting, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on MDGs, Hajiya Amina Ibrahim said three hundred and twenty-one billion has been disbursed from two thousand and six to two thousand and eight with health, water, and agriculture receiving a substantial share of the money.
Hajiya Amina said the conditional grants to states for two thousand and eight are almost concluded, while the grant for two thousand and nine will go out in October.
In the meantime there are plans to focus on one hundred and eleven local governments to build on health and Education.
# # #
GOMBE: Nigeria & Japan sign agreement for Vocational Training Centre
Nigeria and Japan in Abuja signed an agreement for the construction of Vocational
Training and Literacy Centre for Girls in Lafiyawo Community in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State. It will cost over eighty million dollars.
The Minister of State Education, Hajiya Aishatu Jibril Dukku, said the grant would go a long way to enhance the psychological wellbeing of Women and Children for the attainment of self actualization.
The Charge d’Affaire Japanese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr. Shigeru Hamana who signed on behalf of the Japanese Government re-affirmed his Country’s commitment towards helping the developing nations.
# # #
Union solicits support of stakeholders in Agric sector
The Agriculture and Allied Employees Union has solicited the support of
stakeholders in the Agricultural sector towards policies and programmes of government at repositioning the sector for an improved productivity.
The National Vice President of the Union, North Central Zone, Comrade Simon Anchaver, made the call at the first delegate’s conference of the Abuja Chapter of the union.
# # #
MONEY: CBN defends N420b bail out for the five banks
The Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN says the four hundred and twenty billion Naira
recently injected into five banks was from government’s consolidated revenue fund.
The Governor of the Apex Bank, Mallam Sanusi Lamido at an interactive session with the House of Representatives Committee on Banking and currency explained that CBN took the action to save the institution and protect both depositors as well as creditors.
# # #
ENERGY: Minister underlines the need for increase in power generation
The Minister of Power, Dr. Rilwanu Babalola says the nation requires twenty-five
thousand megawatts of electricity to attain the status of one of the leading nations of the world by the year twenty-twenty.
He gave this indication in Abuja at a workshop to roll-out the programmes of the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria and inauguration of the institute.
Dr. Babalola noted that the nation required well-trained manpower in the power sector to achieve the objective.
He said the Yar’Adua administration took the initiative to establish the institute to realise that objective in the power sector.
Dr. Babalola emphasised that the Federal Government would henceforth ensure that cadres of personnel in the power sector were adequately trained to promote efficiency among the workforce.
The Chief Executive of the National Power Training Institute, Mr. Reuben Okeke explained that the body would ensure standardization and promote safety in the power sector.
To achieve the vision, Mr. Okeke said a structure had been developed for a comprehensive nationwide training and skills upgrade to improve the skills of utility managers and workers.
He explained that the programme would provide, managerial and technical training to over seven thousand utility personnel over the next five years.
# # #
PARTY: Court stops APGA Convention
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has issued a Motion Exparte restraining Chief
Chekwas Okorie from holding a National Convention in the name of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA.
The Motion Exparte issued by Justice Gabriel Kolawole also restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC from participating in the convention organised by Chief Okorie in the name of APGA pending the determination of the motion on notice before the court.
Justice Kolawole said the respondents were at liberty within seven days to apply to the court to have the motion varied or discharged as the case may be.
The case has been adjourned till the ninth of this month for determination of the motion on notice.
# # #
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY: Minister commends WIPO for assistance
The National Office for Technology Acquisition, NOTAP says twenty three Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Offices have been established in some tertiary institutions in the country.
Science and Technology Minister Dr. Alhasan Bako Zaku told the visiting President of the World Intellectual Property Organisation that the measure was to support innovation, and enhance the creation of intellectual property.
Dr. Bako Zaku commended the World Intellectual Property Organisation, for assisting NOTAP in equipping the offices.
The World Intellectual Property Organisation President, Dr. Francis Gurry said the organisation would embark on a programme to reduce the knowledge gap in the world.
Dr. Gurry also visited the headquarters of the Nigerian Copyright Commission where the Director-General, Dr. Adebambo Adewopo highlighted the benefits of his visit to Nigeria.
He is billed to deliver a lecture on “Intellectual Property and Development” at the Anniversary of the Nigerian Copyright Commission.
# # #
PIRACY: NBC calls for reversal of “No Music Day”
Meanwhile the National Broadcasting Commission has called for the reversal of the
“No Music Day” as declared by the Nigeria Music Industry Coalition, in protest of piracy.
The Commission notes that the declaration will affect the operations of broadcast stations since music is very important in their programmes.
The statement pledges the support of the Commission for the music industry and called on broadcast stations to intensify the fight against piracy by discouraging the use of pirated materials.
# # #
FCT: MP calls for review of land policy
A member of the House of Representatives from Kebbi State, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar
Faruk has called for the review of the Federal Capital Territory land policy recently announced by the FCT administration.
Alhaji Abdullahi described the policy as illegal and contrary to the Federal Government’s Seven Point Agenda on Land Reforms.
Alhaji Abdullahi Faruk stressed the need for the FCT administration to follow due process in the administration of land reforms in Abuja with a view to ensuring that all Nigerians had equal access to land in the nation’s capital.
# # #
BANKING SECTOR: EFCC files charges against sacked CEOs
The Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC, will in Lagos formally file
charges against the Chief Executives of the five Commercial Banks sacked by the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The spokesperson of the Commission, Mr. Femi Babafemi told newsmen that the accused persons might also be arraigned at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos.
According to him, charges will also be filed against eleven other officials of the Commercial Banks on various financial crimes ranging from money laundering to graft related activities.
One of the former Bank Chiefs, Dr Erastus Akingbola, has been declared wanted by the EFCC.
The Managing Directors of Afribank, Finbank, Oceanic Bank, Intercontinental Bank and Union Bank were recently sacked by the Central Bank of Nigeria following the auditing of their accounts.
# # #
INEC: Oshiomhole urges Security Agencies to protect the electoral system
Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has urged the nation’s Security Agencies to redouble their efforts towards assisting the present administration to achieve a better electoral system.
Governor Oshiomhole made the call in Abuja while receiving his Certificate of return from INEC as the duly elected Governor of Edo State.
He said the manner in which the police supervised the conduct of the recent by-election in the “Akoko-Edo Constituency-One” of the State indicated that adequate security remains a major factor in the conduct of free and fair elections in the country.
Comrade Oshiomhole also stressed the need for attitudinal change among stakeholders in the electoral process, in the interest of the nation’s democracy.
The Chairman of INEC, Professor Maurice Iwu said the Commission had put in place mechanisms that would help to achieve credible elections in 2011.
Professor Iwu commended the people of Akoko Edo for exhibiting good conducts during the said by-election in the area.
# # #
Egbuna commiserates with FRCN over fire incident
A former Director General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Mr. Ben
Egbuna has commiserated with the management and staff of the Corporation over the recent fire incident that razed its Abuja National Station in Gwagwalada.
In a letter to the Director General of the Corporation, Mallam Yusuf Nuhu, Mr. Egbuna described the incident as a setback to the Corporation’s rehabilitation plans for the Station.
The former DG, said he received the news of the inferno with great shock, but thanked God for saving the lives of the staff during the incident.
# # #
ICPC: Justice Ayoola calls for transparency & integrity
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other
Maurice Iwu has called on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, to assist the commission in restructuring the nation’s electoral process.
Professor Iwu made the call in Abuja, when the Director General of the Institute led some participants in Course thirty one on a courtesy visit to the Commission.
The INEC Chairman said NIPSS could help by introducing courses that would improve good governance in the country.
He stressed the need for INEC to be given full autonomy.
Prof Iwu said urgent steps must to be taken to address the issue of internal democracy within the political parties which he described as the major challenge to the electoral process.
The Director General of NIPSS, Professor Ahmed Danfulani called on relevant authorities to give INEC the autonomy it deserve to perform its electoral functions to ensuring a lasting of democracy.
Professor Danfulani enjoined the media to always put the interest of the country first in carrying out its statutory responsibilities.
The delegation was later conducted round the premises of the Commission’s Electoral Institute.
# # #
ICPC: Justice Ayoola calls for transparency & integrity
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other
related Offences Commission, ICPC, Retired justice Emmanuel Ayoola has called for the building of a culture of transparency and integrity in both the public and the private sectors.
This according to him would help the country attain greatness.
Justice Ayoola stated this during a three day National Conference of Anti-Corruption Committees in Nigerian Legislature and Heads of Anti-Corruption Units in Government Establishments, holding in Asaba, the Delta State Capital.
He asked political leaders at all levels to serve as role models to the citizenry.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Drugs, Narcotics and Anti-Corruption, Senator Sola Akinyede, said the National Assembly was working on a bill to ensure a corrupt-free society.
Declaring the conference open, the Delta State Governor, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, represented by his Deputy, Professor Amos Utuama, urged the participants to take the message to the grassroots.
The representatives of the Anti-Graft Commission from all States of the federation are attending the conference.
# # #
HEALTH: Bauchi Govt procures anti malaria drugs
The Bauchi State Government has procured about thirty thousand doses of anti
malaria drugs for free treatment and prevention of malaria among pregnant women in the State.
The Chairman of the State Agency for the control of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Malaria, Dr Rilwanu Muhammad announced this at the end of an indoor residual spray against mosquito and other vectors in Misau town.
The drugs which had arrived the State were of Artemissinin Based Combination Therapy approved by the World Health Organization for the treatment of malaria during pregnancy.
# # #
RIVERS STATE: PTDF to train youths in vocational skills
A National Centre for Skills Development and Training for youths in the Oil and Gas
sector is being planned for Port-Harcourt, the Rivers State Capital.
The Centre which is being designed to develop skills for Nigerian Youths, who may not have access to formal education, is an initiative of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund, PTDF.
The Executive Secretary of the Fund, Mr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma announced this in Abuja during a presentation of the building plan to the Minister of the Niger-Delta Ministry, Chief Ufot Ekaette.
According to him, the youths would be trained in different vocations that would be beneficial to the development of the Nation’s Oil and Gas Sector.
Mr. Rabe Darma said the training centre would be affiliated to International Institutions and would train about two thousand youths each year.
Chief Ufot Ekaette described the programme as laudable and capable of addressing the lingering problem of youth restiveness and unemployment in the Niger Delta-Region.
# # #
PROCUREMENT: Stakeholders call on FG to establish NCPP
Stakeholders at a workshop on procurement Act have urged the Federal Government to speed up the establishment of a National Council of Public
Procurement for effective coordination of projects.
The workshop was meant to address peculiar problems and challenges involved in project execution.
Addressing the participants, the Minister of Power, Dr. Lanre Babalola said no budget could succeed without effective planning and implementation.
Also speaking the Director General of Bureau for Public Procurement, Mr. Emeka Eze said the sectoral interaction was to educate staff of Federal Government Agencies on the challenges on procurement process to ensure transparency.
Mr. Eze explained that the Bureau of Public Procurement would continue to carry out its statutory responsibility of ensuring that money appropriated for projects were spent according to laid down guidelines.
# # #
BANKING SECTOR: FG to continue with CBN Reforms
The Federal Government has expressed its determination to continue with the CBN Reform in the Banking Sector despite all detractions from affected persons
The Special Adviser to the President on Media and publicity Mr. Olusegun Adeniyi told newsmen that the measure was not to promote what he described as so-called Northern Agenda being insinuated in some quarters and that government would not be moved by such allegation.
He explained that the President was convinced that the action by the CBN would avert what could turn out to be a national catastrophe in the financial sector.
The Special Adviser said CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi had received the unwavering support of President Yar’Adua to continue with the reforms.
Mr. Adeniyi advised Nigerians to focus on the real issues, which is the interest of depositors irrespective of which part of the country they come from.
# # #
CONTRACTS: DG BPP laments disregard for Due Process
The Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP, Mr. Emeka Ezeh,
says the disregard for Due Process in the award of contracts is responsible for budget deficit over the last two decades.
Mr. Ezeh stated this in Abuja at a training workshop for Business Editors.
The training is part of efforts to improve understanding of public procurement among relevant key-players in the nation’s economy.
# # #
FRAUDULENT ABUSE: EFCC declares sacked CEOs wanted
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions has declared the sacked Chief
Executive Officer of Oceanic Bank Mrs. Cecilia Ibru and her Intercontinental Bank counterpart, Mr. Erastus Akingbola wanted.
The Agency said that the two were wanted in connection with alleged fraudulent abuse of credit process, insider trading, capital market manipulation and money laundering running into millions of Naira.
According to the statement, apart from failing to honour the Commission’s invitation, intensive search for the two Executives in the last one week has not been successful.
It warned that anyone who harbours the two former bank executives would be treated as an accomplice.
# # #
Institute to establish early conflict response centres
The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution is to establish Early Warning Conflict
Response Centres in the six Geo-Political Zones of the country.
The Director General, Dr Joseph Golwa stated this in Abuja at a seminar on Conflict Resolution.
He said research had shown that conflicts in Nigeria were becoming more complex, noting in particular communal and ethno-religious crisis.
Dr Golwa appealed to all stakeholders to complement efforts at establishing early warning centres.
# # #
FRCN commiserates with the family of late Obong Akpan Isemin
The Management and Staff of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN)
have commiserated with the family of late Obong Akpan Isemin, the Government and the people of Akwa Ibom State on the death of the first Civilian Governor of the State, (Obong) Akpan Isemin.
The Director-General of the Corporation Mallam Yusuf Nuhu said the Corporation was deeply saddened by the death of Obong Akpan Isemin, a man whose life and times touched the lives of many in the country.
Mallam Yusuf Nuhu urged the family and the State to be comforted by the knowledge that late Obong Isemin contributed immensely to Commerce and Industry, Education and Politics in the state and the nation in general.
He prayed God to grant the family, government and the people of Akwa-Ibom State the fortitude to bear the loss.
# # #
TOURISM: DG NTDC commends NUJ for successes achieved
Nigerian Journalists have been commended for the successes achieved in the Nation’s Tourism Sector in recent times.
The Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Otunba Segun Runsewe gave the commendation in Abuja when the National leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists paid him a courtesy visit.
He said the NTDC planned to establish a network of local and foreign media to exchange information about the nation’s Tourism potential.
Otunba Runsewe directed hotels and other hospitality outfits which were yet to register their operations to do so without delay.
The National President of the NUJ, Mallam Mohammed Garba acknowledged the innovations in the Tourism Sector in the last three years and promised to support the agency in revitalizing the sector.
The NUJ President, who was accompanied by the Vice President in charge of Zone H, Mr. Gbenga Onayiga said one of the cardinal focus of the body was to enhance professional capacity of its members.
# # #
RE-BRANDING: Minister to flag-off Campaign in Ondo State
The Minister of Information and Communications, Professor Dora Akunyili will flag-off
the National Re-branding Campaign in Akure, the Ondo State Capital on Friday.
She will be accompanied by the Minister of Labour, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode and members of the National Assembly from Ondo State.
According to a statement from the Ministry, Professor Akunyili and her team will pay courtesy call on Governor Olusegun Mimiko before proceeding to Akure Town for the Re-branding and Town Hall Meeting.
The Akure interface will be followed by another Town Hall Meeting at Uso Grammar School Hall in Owo Local Government Area.
The meeting will serve as a platform for the Ministers and the lawmakers representing Ondo State to give account of their stewardship to the people.
The re-branding project has already been launched in Bauchi and Imo States.
# # #
Youth Parliament calls for an end to FG & ASSU face-off
A motion calling on the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of
Universities to reach a compromise has been adopted by the Nigerian Youth Parliament.
Moving the motion at the Parliament’s second sitting in Abuja, the House Committee Chairman on Education, Miss Rebecca Madami described the Federal Government – ASUU face-off as an unfortunate development.
She however said that if urgent steps were not taken to end the industrial action, the nation’s education system might be in jeopardy.
The debate on the motion which lasted about thirty minutes was presided over by the Speaker of the Youth Parliament, Comrade Luke Onofiok.
Other motions adopted by the parliament include those on the power sector reforms and improved security situation in the country.
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CORRUPTION: VP stresses the need for effective social security system
Vice President Goodluck Jonathan has stressed the need for effective Social
Security system as part of efforts to fight corruption in the Public Service.
He stated this in his office while receiving a delegation of the Board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, led by the Minister of Labour, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode.
The Vice President said if the retirements benefits of Nigerians were guaranteed, the level of corruption in the Public Sector would have been reduced.
He therefore pledged government’s determination to take steps to ensure the formation of a National Social Security Policy.
The Minister of Labour, Prince Adetokunbo Kayode, told the Vice President that the report of the National Working Committee on Social Security would soon be submitted to the Federal Government.
The Chairman of the Board, Mrs. Ngozi Ofejeme, said the fund required about one point nine billion Naira to implement its non-pension social schemes.
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SECURITY: Okiro calls for provision of forensic aid
Provision of modern facilities and improved pay package are essential conditions for
required by the Police to meet the challenges of increasing crime rate in the Country.
The immediate past Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mike Okiro stated this while answering questions on Eagle Square, a Radio Nigeria Public Affairs Programme.
Mr. Okiro also identified unemployment and poor family upbringing as the factors responsible for breeding criminals in the society.
He explained that during his tenure, suspected criminals linked with kidnapping and armed robbery in the South East were killed in shoot-out with the Police.
Mr. Okiro called for the provision of forensic aid for the Police to enhance speedy investigation.
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BANKS: Oronsaye allays fear of depositors
The Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Steve Oronsaye says the recent
action taken by the Government to change the management of some banks and inject the sum of four hundred billion Naira is to pre-empt any distress situation that occurred in the past.
A statement from the office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Steve Oronsaye assured depositors that no bank was distressed in Nigeria.
Mr. Oronsaye, who was named by the Federal Government to serve on the Board of Central Bank of Nigeria in his personal capacity, also urged civil servants and other employees whose salaries are being paid through these banks not to panic.
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Nigeria to coordinate 3 African countries in yam seed project
Nigeria is to coordinate three other African countries in yam seed multiplication project.
The project which is to be funded by the Conference of Africa and French Leaders. Agricultural Research Institute has Ghana, Benin Republic and Togo participating in the exercise.
The Executive Director of the National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike, Dr Kenneth Nwosu said IITA Root and Tuber Expansion programme, Yam Growers Association, as well as Yam Researchers would be included in the programme.
Dr Nwosu said an international conference on yam seed multiplication holding in Umudike, Abia State would provide a platform to fashion out the implementation of the programme.
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BANKING SECTOR: FG assures Nigerians of the safety of their deposits
The Federal Government has assured all Nigerians that their deposits in banks are
safe and government will continue to support the CBN to ensure that no bank is allowed to fail or become distressed.
President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua who gave the assurance also gave his endorsement of the measures announced by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, at the weekend to sanitize Nigeria’s banking sector.
Briefing newsmen in Abuja, the Special Adviser to the President, on Media & Publicity Mr. Olusegun Adeniyi announced fresh measures by government to further strengthen the Apex bank for the effective and efficient performance of its supervisory and regulatory functions.
In another development, President Yar’Adua has forwarded nomination into the CBN Board to the Senate for conformation. They are Dr. Adedoyin Salami, Mr. John Oshilaja, Prof. Chibuike Ugochukwu Uche, Dr. Shehu Yahaya and Mr. Abdul-Ganiyu Garba.
President Yar’Adua also directed all law enforcement agencies to give necessary support to efforts by the new management teams of the five banks which have received bail-out funds from the CBN to recover the huge loans, which placed the banks at risk of distress.
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Head of Service says no total stop to overseas training
The Federal Government says it has not totally stopped overseas training for public officers. It has only taken measures to eliminate its abuse.
The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Steve Oronsaye, said this when he addressed the Executive and Members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, led by its President, Engineer Kashim Ali, who were in his office in Abuja.
Mr. Oronsaye, said Government would no longer tolerate a situation where officers were scheduled to attend training programmes abroad solely for the purpose of securing extacode allowance.
On the issue of Government putting a stop to the sponsorship of public officers to attend conferences of their professional bodies, the Head of Service explained that the intention was to ensure that greater emphasis was placed on structured training for the benefit of all and not for those who were privileged to belong to certain professional bodies.
Engineer Kashim Ali, said that the Society wants Government to consider its proposal for an enhanced entry point salary for Engineers at Grade Level 10 step 4 and registered Engineers at Grade Level 12 step 5.
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NATIONAL HONOURS: Yar’Adua approves reconstitution of Standing C’ttee
President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s has approved the reconstitution of the Standing Committee on National Honours.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity Olusegun Adeniyi said the decision was part of President Yar’Adua’s determination to restore integrity and credibility to the process leading to the conferment of Nigeria’s national honours and recognition.
The Committee has Justice S. M. A. Belgore, former Chief Justice of Nigeria as Chairman.
Members include Alhaji Aminu Saleh, Professor Attahiru Jega, and Dr. Christopher Kolade.
Others are Mrs. Grace Archibong, Professor Mariam Ikejiani-Clark and Alhaji Muhammed Hayatudeen. The appointment is for a period of four years.
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Plateau PDP constitutes new Caretaker C’ttee
A new Caretaker Committee to run the affairs of the PDP in Plateau State has been constituted.
This followed the dissolution of the Executive Committee headed by Professor Dakum Shown and the faction led by Chief Emmanuel Magni.
The National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Professor Rufai Ahmed Alkali would inaugurate the Caretaker Committee.
The statement also directed all PDP members in Plateau State to cooperate with the Caretaker Committee to end the protracted crisis in the State.
The seven-member caretaker Committee has Chief Abu King Shuluwa as Chairman while Alhaji Adamu Zakari as the Secretary.
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BROADCASTING: BON holds 50th General Assembly soon
The 50th General Assembly of Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria, BON, will hold
at Confluence Beach Hotel, Lokoja, Kogi State from Sunday, August 16 to Tuesday, August 18, 2009.
The Assembly with the theme: “Celebrating Broadcasting” will be declared open by the Governor of Kogi State; Alhaji Ibrahim Idris on Monday the 17th of this month at the Conference Hall of Confluence Beach Hotel, Lokoja.
The Minister of Information and Communications, Professor Dora Akunyili will be the Special Guest of Honour.
A statement by the Executive Secretary of BON, Mr. Osita Nweke, says the Assembly will deliberate on critical issues affecting broadcasting in the Country as well as honour past Chairmen of the Organization.
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Hillary Clinton begins two-day official visit to Nigeria
The United States Secretary of State, Mrs. Hillary Clinton will begin a two-day official visit to Nigeria.
While in Nigeria, Mrs. Clinton is scheduled to hold discussions with President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and a breakfast meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Ojo Maduekwe.
The US Secretary of State is also expected to address a Town Hall meeting with representatives from various Strata of the society including Civil Liberty Organizations.
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Court orders the destruction of fake & adulterated goods
Relevant agencies continues the fight against piracy, copyright violation, faking and adulteration of goods, products and services across the nation meanwhile a large quantity of imported fake shoe polish, worth twenty three million naira, have been set ablaze in Awka, Anambra State.
The destruction followed an order of a Federal High Court in Awka, that the fake imported polish by a company in Onitsha be moved from the premises of the court where they were kept in safe custody for destruction.
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U.S. Secretary of State to visit Nigeria
The Federal Government says preparations are on-going for the visit of the U.S. Secretary of State, Mrs Hilary Clinton to Nigeria soon.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Chief Ojo Madueke gave this assurance while speaking with newsmen in Abuja.
Mrs Clinton is already in Angola on her seven nation tour of Africa.
He also gave an assurance that moves have already commenced for direct air link between Nigeria and Brazil to facilitate trade and commerce between the two countries.
Chief Madueke said the two countries were deeply committed to assisting each other in the areas of energy, agriculture and the Judiciary.
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NPF: Governors' Forum pledge support for Onovo
The new Inspector General of Police, Mr Ogbona Onovo has been tasked to chart a fresh course that will transform the Police Force into an effective, reliable and respected crime-proactive agency.
In a congratulatory message, the Director-General of the Nigerian Governor’s Forum, Mr Asishana Okauru assured the new IG of the support of the 36 State Governors and the readiness of the Governors to go into partnership with Mr Onovo on all measures aimed at making Nigeria Crime free.
Mr Okauru said the Governors have confidence in Mr Onovo’s ability to restore credibility to the police, check bribery and corruption, as well as boost the morale of officers and men.
The Governors’ message described Mr Onovo as a thorough-bred professional who has performed creditably in many national assignments and urged him to take his new appointment as another national challenge.
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ROCLAIMATION: Amnesty for N/Delta Militants takes effect today
The Amnesty granted militants in the Niger-Delta Region by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua in June this year takes effect from today.
Announcing the gesture, on the 25th of June this year, President Yar’Adua explained that the move had become necessary to ensure an enduring peace and prosperity of the Nation.
President Yar’Adua in that pronouncement also enumerated other gains of the move describing the proclamation as a bold step taken in the overall interest of the Nation.
Defence Minister, Major General Godwin Abe spelt out the conditions and extent of the Amnesty.
And for the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Paul Dike steps had been taken to ensure that the Amnesty was fully respected.
In the meantime, the Joint Task force in the Niger Delta has re-affirmed that no militant leader will be arrested during the amnesty period.
The Special Adviser to the President on Parastatals, Statutory Bodies and Inter-governmental Affairs, Chief Braeyi Ekiye has also appealed to militants in the Niger Delta to embrace the Federal Government Amnesty.
Chief Ekiye in an interview with newsmen described the amnesty as a process to resolve the problem of the region. He commended the Governors of the South-South Geo–political zone for supporting the amnesty programme.
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ELECTRICITY: Shortage of Gas poses challenges nationwide
Shortage of gas has continued to pose challenges to effective power supply nationwide.
In the last few months many parts of the country have been facing constant power outages which have been affecting social and economic activities.
Investigation showed that half of the over two thousand megawatts of electricity being generated currently is from hydro-power stations in Shiroro, Kainji and Jebba.
When contacted, the General Manager, Public Affairs of the PHCN, Mrs Efuru Igbo confirmed the situation but explained that the situation was not as bad as was being reported by the media. She however blamed the situation on pipeline vandalism in parts of the country.
On whether, the situation would not affect government’s projection to achieve 6,000 megawatts by the end of this year, Mrs Igbo said measures were being taken to realize the vision. She appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience as the situation would soon improve.
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COLLABORATION: V.P calls for efforts to develop the 3rd tier of Govt.
Vice President Goodluck Jonathan has called for closer collaboration between Local Government Chairmen and American Black Mayors in efforts to develop the third tier of government in Nigeria.
He made the call today in his office while receiving members of the conference of American Black Mayors. The Vice President said such co-operation could be in form of capacity building and job creation for the people at the grassroot.
Vice President Jonathan thanked the American Black Mayors for projecting the image of Africa in the United States. The Spokesperson for the delegation, Venessa Williams, had earlier told the Vice President that the Conference of American Black Mayors was made up of seventy members.
Mrs Williams said they were impressed with the development efforts of the government and the friendly disposition of the Nigerian people, a situation, she said, contradicted reports in some of the Western media.
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IMMUNISATION: Jigawa Govt releases N28m
The Jigawa State Government says it has released twenty-eight million naira for the successful conduct of the sixth round of the National Immunisation days in the area.
The Commissioner for Local Government, Alhaji Nasiru Roni directed all Local Government Chairmen to monitor the exercise to ensure its success.
The five first class Emirs in the state launched the Immunisation campaign with a call on parents to bring out their children for the exercise.
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NESREA warns against indiscriminate discharge of untreated waste water
The National Environmental Standards Regulatory and Enforcement Agency, NESREA, has warned against indiscriminate discharge of untreated waste water by industries.
The Director General of NESREA, Mrs. Ngeri Benebo, who gave the warning in Abuja, said the Agency had discovered that some tanneries in Kano State discharged their waste water without treatment.
The Director General observed that some companies were yet to install efficient treatment plants as required by law, while others failed to use their existing plants effectively.
According to the Director General, NESREA had in 2008 given tanneries one year to acquire the necessary facilities for the treatment of waste water.
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