Friday, April 4, 2025
Home Blog Page 10

Maintain Law and Order In Osun state Matawalle Charges Security Agencies

By
Victor Obabunmi
-
0

 

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle , has unequivocally expressed his concern on the recent incidents in the local government councils in Osun State.

In the light of this significant development, he has called upon security agencies to take proactive measures to maintain law and order in the state.

Matawalle emphasized that the ruling is not only a reflection of the judiciary’s independence but also aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, equity, and the rule of law across the nation. He highlighted that the recent incident in Osun state in which some lives were lost should not be allowed to continue. As a minister of state for defence, my duty also includes protection of lives and properties of all citizens.

“This affirmation stands as a testament to the administration’s dedication to ensuring that democratic principles are respected and upheld at all levels of governance,” he stated.

In his statement, Matawalle urged all stakeholders, political leaders, community members, and civil society organizations to respect the rule of law and engage in constructive dialogue. He stressed the importance of collaboration in fostering a peaceful and conducive environment in Osun State, which is vital for the progress and development of the region.

Furthermore, he called on the citizens of Osun State to remain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, assuring them that the federal government is committed to ensuring their safety as security has been elevated. He reiterated that maintaining peace is paramount and that the government will support all efforts aimed at achieving stability and harmony within the state.

Matawalle concluded by reaffirming the administration’s resolve to protect the democratic rights of all citizens and to work tirelessly towards a peaceful Nigeria, where justice prevails and the rule of law is upheld.

Stakeholders, NDDC Agree on New Regional Master Plan

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has adopted a new stakeholder-generated Regional Development Master Plan to replace the 15-year plan, which expired in 2020.

 

This decision was one of the resolutions in a communique issued at the end of the NDDC 2025 Board and Management Strategic Retreat in Ikeja, Lagos. The document was signed by the Chairman of the Commission’s Governing Board, Mr Chiedu Ebie and the Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku.

 

The retreat brought together members of the Governing Board and the Management Committee to assess the progress of the Commission thus far, identify challenges and chart a new course for repositioning the Commission for enhanced efficiency and impact in the Niger Delta Region, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

The communique stated that the NDDC Board and Management agreed on proper integration between the Commission and Member States in the region to ensure that projects are conceptualized and aligned with the needs of the region’s people.

 

The retreat resolved: “The Niger Delta Development Advisory Committee comprising the Governors of the nine Niger Delta States should be active and encouraged to carry out their statutory duties to the Commission towards the development of the region.

 

“To maintain and sustain projects undertaken by the Commission, it is essential to engage stakeholders, including the benefiting communities, from inception through the implementation phase to secure their support, ownership and commitment beyond project commissioning.”

 

The communique stated that NDDC “should ensure that its budgets align with the year to which it relates. Accordingly, plans should be made to submit budgets to the National Assembly by September of the preceding year as prescribed by the NDDC Act (as amended).”

 

Participants at the retreat agreed on the need to build on the foundation established at the 2024 Board and Management Retreat, emphasising collaboration, unity and synergy between the Board and Management of the Commission.

 

They advised against the frequent changes of the NDDC Board in contravention of the Act establishing the Commission, stating that it was inimical to the development of the region. They added: “There is need to ensure that the current Board and subsequent Boards of the Commission complete their statutory tenure in office so that their projects and initiatives are implemented fully without interruption.”

According to the communique, “There should be a strong synergy and shared vision between Board and Management to build a high-performing leadership team for the Commission. Each must respect set roles and boundaries; the Board in its oversight function and management in its policy implementation and day to day operations of the Commission.”

The Commission must embrace digital transformation in its governance, apply sustainability considerations to its procedures, and ensure clear performance matrixes.

 

The resolutions stated: “The NDDC should accommodate the interests of the oil-producing companies operating in the region, who contribute to its funding by citing legacy projects in the host communities of those oil-producing companies.

 

According to the communique, “The KPMG Report on the Corporate Governance Structure was presented and adopted. The Retreat recommended adopting international best practices in the Commission’s governance structure, operations, and activities.

“The Board and Management are determined to carry out the development of the Niger Delta Region through effective service delivery in line with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

Participants acknowledged and thanked Mr. President for fully implementing the NDDC Act by paying the 15% equivalent of the total monthly statutory allocations due to member States of the Commission from the Federation Account.

 

Seledi Thompson-Wakama

Director, Corporate Affairs

February 21, 2025.

Senatorial Candidate Azuka Okwuosa Vows to Revolutionize Waste Disposal in Anambra

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

By: Uju Nwanekezie-Egemole

“Reduce, reuse, recycle” is not just a slogan, it’s a way of life and one of the propelling forces behind Chinyelugo heeding the call of his people to join the Senatorial bye-election race.
The horrific visions of the number of waste littering carelessly on the streets translating to the number of wealth lying in ruins and the number of lives at risk of health hazards pushed him to getting ready impactful bills for waste management and disposable.
Expectedly, these well thought out bills will regulate the disposal and management of wastes such as organic waste, hazardous waste, solid waste, liquid waste, and recyclable waste. Each of them uniquely impacts the environment, with improper disposal leading to issues like pollution, health risks, and resource depletion.

Predictably, the intended bills will not only scale down the generation of waste especially hazardous waste, treat waste in a way that ensures recovery, dispose of waste that cannot be recovered in an environmentally sound way, prevent pollution, minimize the consequences for human health and the environment; it will ultimately create massive employment and unimaginable wealth for the highly industrious people of Anambra South and Anambra State.

With the notion that waste is a resource in the wrong place, let’s support Chinyelugo for effective and beneficial bills for its management and disposal!

Let’s support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for quality Representation in the Senate.

*AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*

Rising Antibiotic Resistance Threatens Public Health and Economy in Nigeria, Experts Warn

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

The increasing resistance of bacteria to third-generation cephalosporins and other critical antibiotics is complicating treatment options in Nigeria, raising concerns among health experts. Dr. Sati Ngulukun, Director of Bacteriology, Parasitology, and Urology at the National Veterinary Research Institute, Plateau State, has warned that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a severe threat to public health, particularly among vulnerable populations such as neonates and intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

 

Speaking during his presentation titled “Private Sector Engagement in Antimicrobial Resistance: Challenges and Opportunities” at a five-day training and capacity-building program for journalists and SBOS on AMR Advocacy and Media Reporting, Dr. Ngulukun highlighted that recent studies show a significant rise in multidrug-resistant infections in Nigeria. The event was organized by Fleming Fund Country Grant Antimicrobial Resistance Phase II in collaboration with Management Science for Health (MSH) and supported by UKaid.

 

A 2025 study by Okechukwu et al. reported that 50% of Escherichia coli and 86% of Staphylococcus aureus isolates from neonatal infections exhibited resistance to multiple antibiotics. Similarly, research by Olayinka et al. (2022) highlighted the increasing failure of third-generation cephalosporins, a key class of antibiotics used to treat severe bacterial infections.

 

Economic Impact and Policy Recommendations

 

Dr. Ngulukun stressed that the economic impact of AMR is equally alarming, with global losses estimated at $100 trillion if no action is taken. In Nigeria, AMR could reduce GDP by 5-7% and diminish livestock production by 11% by 2050. “The private sector, which provides over 60% of healthcare services in Nigeria, is a critical player in this fight and must be fully integrated into national AMR control strategies,” he emphasized.

 

Nigeria’s National Action Plan for AMR (2017–2022), developed by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), aims to:

 

Improve AMR awareness and education.

 

Strengthen surveillance and reporting systems.

 

Promote rational antimicrobial use in human and animal health.

 

Encourage private-sector engagement in AMR control.

 

 

Despite these efforts, Dr. Ngulukun stressed the need for stronger policies and stricter enforcement to curb the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.

 

Factors Fueling AMR in Nigeria

 

Dr. Ngulukun identified several factors contributing to AMR in Nigeria:

 

Widespread antibiotic misuse: Self-medication and over-the-counter sales of antibiotics without prescriptions contribute significantly to resistance.

 

Healthcare facilities as AMR hotspots: Multidrug-resistant infections are prevalent in hospitals, particularly among ICU patients and neonates.

 

Agricultural antibiotic use: Excessive antibiotic use in livestock and poultry farming promotes resistance within the food chain.

 

Environmental contamination: Poor waste management and contaminated water sources facilitate the spread of resistant bacteria.

 

 

Call for Multi-Sectoral Approach

 

With Nigeria ranking among the worst-hit countries by AMR, experts are calling for immediate and sustained action. Dr. Ngulukun emphasized the need for:

 

Strengthened surveillance and reporting systems.

 

Public education campaigns on responsible antibiotic use.

 

Stricter regulations on antibiotic sales and prescriptions.

 

Increased research into AMR trends and mitigation strategies.

 

Greater collaboration between the government, private healthcare providers, and agricultural stakeholders.

 

 

As resistance to life-saving antibiotics continues to rise, Dr. Ngulukun concluded that a multi-sectoral approach involving healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management is essential to curb the spread of AMR and safeguard public health in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

D’Consiglories Will Implement Niger Delta Music & Arts Project As Our CSR – CEO

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Ambassador Fubara Blessing, the Managing Director and CEO of D’Consiglories LLC, has announced his commitment to organizing and hosting the Niger Delta Music and Arts Project (MAP) as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). This initiative was initially intended to be one of the eight specimens of PROJECT HOPE by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). However, due to delays attributed to possible internal bottlenecks or other undisclosed reasons within the Commission, stakeholders from across the region have raised concerns about the project’s stagnation.

In response, Ambassador Fubara, who serves as the lead consultant for PROJECT HOPE, has assured the public that MAP will proceed as planned, fully funded by D’Consiglories LLC. Addressing the press in Port Harcourt today February 18th 2025, he stated that he has secured partnerships with leading entertainment industry giants to ensure the success of the project.

“We have a duty to uphold integrity and transparency in our engagements with the people of the Niger Delta. The Niger Delta is rich in talent and potential. The delays in implementing MAP should not deter us from empowering our people. As stakeholders in this region, we have a responsibility to take proactive steps in supporting our youth and providing sustainable opportunities for growth,” said Ambassador Fubara.

The MAP auditions are scheduled to commence on February 28, 2025, across the nine Niger Delta states. This groundbreaking initiative aims to discover and promote talent in music and the arts, providing a platform for young creatives to showcase their skills and gain exposure to national and international audiences.

Beyond MAP, Ambassador Fubara has also pledged to tackle unemployment in the Niger Delta region by leveraging the database system developed for PROJECT HOPE. Through this system, D’Consiglories LLC will facilitate the employment of 18 qualified yet unemployed Niger Deltans every month, offering them opportunities across various industries.
“We are neither halting nor superseding our principal the NDDC; rather, we are fulfilling our commitment and reinforcing our corporate integrity to our stakeholders, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations”. This initiative commences pending when the Commission would decide to kick-start the programs as promised and unveiled on September 30, 2024.” He also added.

The MAP initiative is expected to be a major milestone in the creative and entertainment industry, further positioning the Niger Delta as a hub for artistic excellence. More details on the audition process and event schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.

Silent Pandemic: Nigeria Faces Alarming Rise in Antimicrobial Resistance, Experts Warn

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

 

***If Unchecked, Could Led To 10 Million Deaths Annually By 2050

 

 

*** AMR Responsible For 263,400 Deaths Annually in Nigeria

 

 

*** With 64,500 Of These Fatalities Directly Caused By Resistant Infections

 

 

 

Nigeria is on the brink of a public health catastrophe as Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) continues to escalate, placing the nation among the worst-hit globally.

 

Dr. Mary Alex-Wele, Consultant Clinical Microbiologist, Senior Lecturer, and Certified Infection Preventionist, has raised concerns over the country’s AMR-related mortality rate, ranking 19th out of 204 nations surveyed at a 5 Day Training and Capacity Building for journalists and SBOS on AMR Advocacy And Media Reporting organized by Fleming Fund Country Grant Antimicrobial Resistance Phase 11 in collaboration with Management Science for Health (MSH) with support from UKaid on Monday in Lagos state.

 

Globally, 4.95 million deaths are linked to AMR each year, with 1.27 million directly attributed to drug-resistant infections. “If this trend continues unchecked, we could see up to 10 million deaths annually by 2050,” Dr. Alex-Wele cautioned.

 

In Nigeria, AMR is responsible for 263,400 deaths annually, with 64,500 of these fatalities directly caused by resistant infections. Beyond the staggering human toll, AMR is expected to trigger economic losses amounting to $100 trillion globally, with a projected 3.8% GDP decline and severe disruptions in livestock production.

 

Dr. Alex-Wele emphasized the urgent need for stronger policies, increased research funding, and widespread public awareness campaigns. “Without immediate and sustained intervention, we are heading toward a post-antibiotic era where common infections become untreatable, reversing decades of medical progress,” she warned.

 

 

She highlighted the necessity of a coordinated response, advocating for the “One Health” approach a framework integrating human health, food production, environmental sustainability, and animal health.

 

“AMR is not a future threat; it is a present danger. Governments, industries, and communities must work together to safeguard our future,” stated Dr. Chavan Laxmikant, Technical Officer at WHO Nigeria.

 

The Interagency Coordination Group on AMR outlined key recommendations, including accelerating national response strategies, fostering innovation, enhancing collaboration, and strengthening global accountability. These measures are expected to mitigate the crisis and protect public health.

 

Recent health data positions AMR among the leading causes of death in Nigeria, surpassing fatalities from respiratory infections, enteric infections, maternal and neonatal disorders, and neglected tropical diseases. While diseases like tuberculosis and malaria remain major concerns, AMR’s silent rise has alarmed healthcare professionals.

 

AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve resistance to antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs, rendering standard treatments ineffective. This results in prolonged illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and increased mortality rates. The WHO has repeatedly warned that without urgent intervention, AMR could become the world’s leading cause of death.

 

The unchecked rise of AMR poses several threats: Increased morbidity and mortality; Longer hospital stays: Overburdening an already strained healthcare system; Costlier treatments: The need for more expensive antibiotics and procedures; Higher risk of resistant hospital-acquired infections; Complications in surgeries and routine medical treatments; and Financial losses in agriculture due to drug-resistant livestock diseases

 

In response to this crisis, Nigeria has developed two National Action Plans (NAPs) in the past eight years, aligned with the Global Action Plan on AMR. The latest, NAP 2.0, launched on October 18, 2024, will guide the country’s AMR mitigation efforts until 2028.

 

This plan, rooted in a multisectoral situation analysis, aims to: Strengthen surveillance and data collection; Promote responsible antibiotic use; Enhance infection prevention and control measures; Invest in research and development for alternative treatments; and Improve public education on AMR risks

 

As AMR continues to claim lives, immediate and sustained efforts are crucial to preventing a full-scale health crisis. The battle against AMR is not just for healthcare professionals but for every Nigerian, as inaction could have catastrophic

consequences for future generations.

 

Matawalle Highlights President Tinubu’s Reforms In The North Cautions Lawal

By
Victor Obabunmi
-
0

 

The Honorable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, has categorically refuted the recent comments by Dr. Babachir Lawal regarding the 2027 Presidential ambitions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

Matawalle emphasized that President Tinubu has made commendable strides in governance and that Lawal and his associates will be surprised by the resounding support the President will receive from the North.

 

In his statement, Minister Matawalle noted, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions to all regions of Nigeria, including the North. The people of the North will rally behind Mr. President to build upon the achievements and reforms he has initiated.”

 

The Minister highlighted several key areas where President Tinubu has made impactful reforms that warrant support from the Northern electorate particularly

Security and Defence:

In 2024, Nigerian security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 weapons. This robust action has significantly improved security across the North. The successful rescue of approximately 8,000 kidnap victims underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens. Also, the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in December 2024, in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.

 

Dr. Matawalle emphasized ‘The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu. Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine our national security.

 

Looking at the administration from the economic point of view, the Minister said Economic Initiatives like

the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development aims to tap into the agricultural potential of the North, promoting economic growth and empowering millions, particularly women and youths in the North. “This initiative is expected to transform rural communities and contribute to food Security. The recent decline in grain prices across the country is a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies“ he explained.

 

Furthermore, President Tinubu’s administration has prioritized infrastructure projects that are vital for economic growth in the North, including road construction and improvement of transportation networks.

 

Also of importance is the Local Government Autonomy:

The local government autonomy signed into law by President Tinubu empowers local administrations to function effectively, ensuring accountability and better governance at the grassroots level.

 

Matawalle urged critics like Lawal to evaluate President Tinubu’s scorecard objectively rather than dismissing his efforts. “It is essential for us in the North to assess the tangible benefits of the President’s reforms. The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made,” he stated.

 

He concluded by affirming that the legacy of President Tinubu’s reforms is one of hope and progress for all Nigerians—young and old, male and female, in every corner of the country. “We must unite in our support for Mr. President as he continues to work towards a prosperous and secure Nigeria,” he emphasized.

 

Dr. Matawalle also reaffirmed the Northern region’s commitment to the Tinubu administration. ” Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria “.

Maintaining A Laudable Senatorial Legacy In Anambra South Requires Objectivity: Sir Azuka Okwuosa Is The Best Qualified

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

By:Uju Nwanekezie-Egemole

The sum of the personal values, accomplishments, and actions of Distinguished Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah which resonate in the minds of the people especially the good people of Anambra South will be wiped out within the shortest time if our judgement of who becomes the next Anambra South Senator is made on the altar of superficial sentiments.

Ebubechukwuuzo Nnewi’s laudable legacies of loving the people around him with his time, resources and attention; being the uncommon voice of ndị Anambra South in the Senate will phase out if we allow superficialities to becloud our sense of judgement.

Anambra South Senatorial District will retrogress far beyond expectations if we fail in doing what is just in the forthcoming Senatorial bye-election.

Sir Azuka Okwuosa who has proven his mettle beyond every reasonable doubts precedently, distinctly stands out amongst the contenders.

Let’s support a leader worthy of our trust to deliver.

Let’s support Chinyelugo for quality Representation in the Senate.

*AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*

Matawalle Calls For Assertiveness On Global Stage Following Visa Denial By Canada

By
Victor Obabunmi
-
0

 

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle , has issued a resolute call for Nigeria to assert its position on the global stage in the light of recent diplomatic incident involving the denial of visas to the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, and other members of the Nigerian delegation. This unfortunate event occurred while they were en route to a significant function honoring Nigerian veterans in Canada.

 

Matawalle expressed profound disappointment regarding the treatment of the Nigerian delegation, emphasizing that such actions jeopardize the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Canada. “This incident is not merely a bureaucratic oversight; it is a serious affront to our national dignity and integrity. We cannot allow our country to be treated with such disregard and levity on the international stage,” he stated.

 

He called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the reasons behind this visa denial, asserting that Nigeria must respond decisively to uphold its reputation as a key player in global affairs. “We must not remain passive in the face of such disrespect. It is imperative that the Nigerian government takes a firm diplomatic stance. If no satisfactory explanation is provided, we must be prepared to respond appropriately and assertively,” Minister Matawalle declared.

 

The denial of visa raises significant concerns regarding Canada’s treatment of Nigerian military officials and the overall state of diplomatic relations between the two nations. While the specific reasons for the visa refusals remain unclear, this incident underscores the persistent bureaucratic and political challenges that Nigerian officials encounter in international engagements.

 

He concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining its dignity and respect in the international arena, urging all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure that such incidents do not recur.

Ortom, Anyanwu Shun PDP Disciplinary Panel, Former Governor Threatens Legal Action

By
Roland Edet
-
0

 

 

The former governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom, and the embattled National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, on Wednesday, shunned the Tom Ikimi-led disciplinary committee of the party.

 

While the committee waited for over three hours for their appearance, it later rescheduled the hearing to March 4, 2025, citing the need for fair hearing.

 

Disciplinary Committee: We Sent Invitations Through Courier

 

Chairman of the disciplinary committee, Chief Tom Ikimi, told journalists that invitations were sent to both Ortom and Anyanwu through DHL courier service, with evidence of receipt. However, Ortom denied receiving the invitation.

 

> “We sent the invitations through DHL, and we have evidence that they received them. But in Ortom’s case, they said it was not received. So, we are giving them another opportunity by resending the invitation.”

 

 

 

For Anyanwu, the committee stated that he cited health challenges and presented a doctor’s report confirming a medical appointment on the scheduled day.

 

Ortom Demands Apology, Threatens Legal Action

 

In a swift response, Ortom issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the committee, demanding a public apology for allegedly defaming him.

 

Through his lawyer, C. T. Mue, Ortom accused the committee of violating the PDP Constitution by making public statements on allegations without first notifying him.

 

> “The premature publication of allegations against our client, without being duly informed, as provided by Section 57(4) of the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended), has led to public ridicule and reputational harm.”

 

 

 

Citing Section 57(7) of the PDP Constitution, Ortom argued that only the National Executive Committee (NEC) has the authority to discipline a former governor or NEC member, rendering the disciplinary committee’s actions procedurally defective and unconstitutional.

 

Ortom’s demands include:

 

1. Immediate withdrawal of the committee’s press statement issued on February 5, 2025.

 

 

2. A written apology within 48 hours of receiving the letter.

 

 

3. Cessation of public commentary on the matter until formal notification of any allegations.

 

 

 

Failure to comply, the letter warned, would lead to legal action, including a defamation lawsuit and a petition under the Cybercrimes Act 2015.

 

Committee Justifies Disciplinary Actions

 

Defending its mandate, Ikimi clarified that the committee only acts on petitions received and does not initiate disciplinary cases independently.

 

> “This committee does not write petitions; we only attend to petitions sent to us. If there’s no petition against someone, we do nothing about it. We are not here to act on newspaper reports.”

 

 

 

On the issue of Anyanwu’s status as National Secretary, Ikimi maintained that the petition was sent to him in that capacity, and the committee would proceed accordingly unless officially informed otherwise.

 

With the hearing rescheduled for March 4, the PDP’s internal crisis appears far from over, as key figures in the party continue to

challenge the legitimacy of the disciplinary process.

 

1...91011...338Page 10 of 338

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved