In a landmark move, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has launched a pioneering gender strategy for the Nigerian Mining and Steel sectors. This innovative initiative aims to promote diversity, empower women, and enhance the overall sustainability of the mining sector.
At a dual launch event, which also introduced the Women In Mining In Nigeria (WIMIN) strategy, Hon. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, emphasized the administration’s commitment to gender equity and female participation. He stressed that promoting gender equality is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic decision that will drive innovation and contribute to the nation’s sustainable development.
Dr. Alake acknowledged the indispensable contributions of women to the success and sustainability of the mining sector, highlighting their talents, expertise, and perspectives as crucial for industry growth. He reflected on past biases and inequalities, affirming the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and empowering women through its roadmap initiative.
The Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification (MinDiver) engaged a consultancy firm, N & G Consulting Firm Ltd, to develop the gender strategy. The Minister issued a clarion call to action, stating objectives firmly rooted in equality, diversity, and empowerment. He emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing women’s participation in leadership and governance roles within the mining sector and communities.
The National President of WIMIN, represented by the National Secretary, Mrs. Emily Ofodile, described the launch as a beacon of hope and a platform for collective action and solidarity towards meaningful change. Dr. Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, urged industry players to remain steadfast in implementing the gender strategy effectively, ensuring an equitable and inclusive mining sector.
Engineer Sellim Salam, Project Coordinator of MinDiver, underscored the importance of engaging a consultancy firm to conduct a gender study and develop a strategy to uplift women’s benefits and mainstream their participation in the sector. The unveiling ceremony featured a revealing presentation by N & G Consulting Firm Ltd, along with goodwill messages from various organizations, highlighting the collective commitment to advancing gender equality and empowerment in the Nigerian mining and steel sectors.
This groundbreaking gender strategy marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more inclusive and sustainable mining sector in Nigeria.
In a bold move to address the lingering darkness in Abuja’s streets, Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), issued a stern warning to streetlights contractors on Tuesday. Contractors who have failed to meet their contractual obligations were put on notice, as Obuah vowed that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will not renew any contractual relationships with defaulting companies.
Speaking during a press briefing, Obuah expressed dismay over the widespread darkness in almost all districts of Abuja due to non-functional streetlights. He condemned the negligence of some companies tasked with maintaining and securing streetlights, accusing them of abandoning their contractual obligations.
Obuah’s warning came after an inspection of various districts revealed alarming situations where streetlights were not functioning, and infrastructure had been vandalized. He directly addressed the contractors, expressing dissatisfaction with their performance. “I’m not impressed with the way you’ve handled maintenance and security. The city is dark, despite payment for your services. This is unacceptable.”
Obuah emphasized that contractors are responsible for providing security to safeguard facilities and replacing dead bulbs promptly. He warned that continued negligence would result in blacklisting, preventing them from future opportunities. “I’m not interested in pulling anybody down; I’m more interested in getting the job done. Those willing to partner with us will receive our full support, but those who neglect their duties will face consequences.”
The AMMC Coordinator’s stern warning highlights the FCT administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability and efficiency in service delivery, particularly in critical areas like street lighting and infrastructure maintenance. With this move, the FCTA demonstrates its dedication to illuminating Abuja’s streets and ensuring the safety and security of its residents.
Barr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to a fruitful partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) during a meeting in Abuja on Tuesday. Wike welcomed Mr. Yuzurio Susumu, JICA’s Chief Representative in Nigeria, and expressed confidence in the continued growth of their relationship, built on mutual trust and a shared commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.
Drawing from his experience as former Minister of State for Education, Wike commended JICA for its significant contributions to enhancing education quality and access across Nigeria. He highlighted JICA’s impactful initiatives, such as the Abuja urban master plan approved in 2019, and praised the organization’s solid relationship with Nigeria, spanning various sectors nationwide.
Wike assured JICA of the FCT’s unwavering commitment to sustaining their partnership, emphasizing the importance of completing ongoing projects, especially water-related initiatives, within scheduled timeframes. He pledged the FCT administration’s dedication to fulfilling its obligations and aligning with JICA’s support.
Expressing confidence in JICA’s capacity to deliver on its promises, Wike welcomed further collaboration to achieve more for the people of the FCT. He proposed expanding JICA’s teacher training programs beyond the FCT, focusing on science and mathematics education, demonstrating the administration’s eagerness to continue partnering with JICA in critical areas for educational advancement.
Mr. Yuzurio Susumu, Chief Representative of JICA in Nigeria, reiterated the agency’s commitment to capacity building for FCT staff and promising young individuals. He emphasized JICA’s longstanding collaboration with the government in sustainable economic development and its integral role in the development of the Abuja urban master plan.
This meeting marked a significant milestone in the FCT-JICA partnership, reaffirming their shared commitment to driving progress and improving the lives of Nigerians.
The iconic Landmark Beach in Victoria Island, Lagos, is undergoing significant changes as demolition work has started to pave the way for the ambitious Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The project was initiated following an order from the Minister of Works, David Umahi, who also mandated the closure of the beach from Sunday.
Here are six essential details about the demolition and the highway project:
Project Objective: The demolition is part of the preparatory work for a 700-kilometer coastal highway that will link Lagos to nine other coastal states, facilitating improved connectivity and economic growth.
Project Scale: Touted as the largest single infrastructure project in Nigeria, the highway will be constructed in phases over several years.
Project Timeline and Budget: The construction is projected to last eight years, costing approximately N15 trillion, with each kilometer estimated at N4 billion.
Scope of Demolition: The federal government assures that only structures infringing upon the right-of-way are being removed, primarily targeting makeshift structures and not the primary facilities of Landmark Beach Resort.
Compensation Plan: Minister Umahi has promised compensation for those affected by the demolition, though further details are yet to be disclosed.
Community Response: The community’s reaction is mixed. While some see the potential economic and infrastructural benefits, others mourn the loss of a popular recreational venue.
This development highlights a significant transformation in Victoria Island, balancing infrastructure development with community and recreational concerns.
The Honorable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, has called for concerted efforts by all stakeholders in addressing the challenges faced by the border communities’ dwellers.
The Minister made the call when the Executive Secretary of Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA), Dr. George D.A. Kelly paid him a courtesy visit in Ship House.
Badaru emphasized the urgent need to address challenges such as provision of healthcare facilities and access to clean water in border towns across the nation.
He acknowledged the gravity of these challenges and therefore called for innovative and concrete solutions to improve the welfare of the border communities’ inhabitants
Accordingly, he opined that the Agency should come up with a Strategic Master plan with members drawn from International organisations, non-Governmental organizations, National Assembly, State Assembly, State Governors, Local Government Chairmen, businessmen and other critical members of the society to drive the entire process of mobilising resources to fund some projects instead of depending on budgetory allocation from Federal Government alone.
Badaru commended Dr. Kelly for drawing up a strategic plan for tackling border communities’ issues, pledging to support any viable initiative in addressing the issues.
He said: “I am not only from a Border State, I am also from a Border community and as a former Governor of Jigawa State, I understand these border issues and I will join hands with you to address these issues.”
Earlier in his address, Dr. Kelly outlined the BCDA’s strategic action plan for 2024 to 2027, which includes short-term and long-term solutions to enhance access to essential services, security, communication, welfare, and agriculture in border communities.
He emphasized the agency’s commitment to implementing sustainable and impactful interventions that will address the root causes of border community challenges.
In the latest results released by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for the 2024 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), 77% of the 1,842,464 candidates scored below the 200 mark. This startling statistic has raised concerns about the academic preparedness of students seeking admission to tertiary institutions in Nigeria.
During a press briefing, JAMB’s Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, detailed the performance distribution, noting that only 8,401 candidates managed to score 300 and above. Additionally, 77,070 candidates scored between 250 and 299, while 439,974 candidates scored between 200 and 249.
The board has yet to set the minimum admission benchmark for the 2024/2025 academic session, which traditionally ranges from 180 to 200. This will be decided at a policy meeting scheduled for a later date.
Prof. Oloyede also introduced changes to the admissions acceptance process aimed at safeguarding candidate information and maintaining the integrity of the admissions process. Candidates can now accept or reject admission offers either by sending a command via SMS to 55019/66019 from their registered phone line or through biometric verification at an accredited CBT center or any JAMB office.
“These newly introduced methods are designed to protect the candidates’ details and uphold the sanctity of the admission process,” Prof. Oloyede emphasized. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to create a dedicated student SIM card with restricted services to further secure students’ communications.
The recent results and procedural updates highlight JAMB’s continuous efforts to enhance educational standards and the admissions process in Nigeria’s higher education system.
Residents of Zamani Estate in Karu Local Government Area are living in fear as armed robbery attacks continue to plague their community.
In a desperate appeal to security agencies, residents are pleading for immediate intervention to combat the escalating crisis.
A recent robbery incident involving a 9-man gang has left residents traumatized and vulnerable.
Despite attempts to seek assistance, there was no immediate response from security agencies, leaving victims to endure a two-hour ordeal of terror.
The suspects, armed with guns, robbed occupants at gunpoint, leaving one victim with a stab wound to the hand.
Chairman of the Zamani Estate Residents Association, Mr. Sani Philips, recounted the harrowing experience and urged security agencies to take decisive action.
“We are tired of living in fear. We need help now,” Philips emphasized. Three suspects were apprehended, and stolen items were recovered, but Philips stressed that the remaining suspects still at large pose an ongoing threat.
The community has implemented proactive measures to enhance security, including reinforcing street gates and engaging security vigilantes.
“We are committed to working with law enforcement agencies to safeguard lives and property,” Philips affirmed.
As residents of Zamani Estate strive to reclaim their sense of security, they remain resolute in their determination to confront the scourge of armed robbery and protect their community.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God, FCT Province 7, came together on Sunday to celebrate the remarkable contributions of their immediate past Provincial Pastor, Pastor Titus Adedoyin, and other esteemed leaders who served with dedication and passion.
The congregation gathered to express their heartfelt appreciation for the selfless service and commitment of these leaders to the church’s mission.
During the service, Pastor Gabriel Adewuyi delivered a powerful sermon, “Your Score Card with God,” emphasizing the importance of faithful service and obedience in God’s kingdom.
He encouraged the congregation to reflect on their dedication to kingdom work and their relationship with God, highlighting the exemplary leadership of Pastor Adedoyin as a shining example.
Members of the church’s natural groups took turns to testify to Pastor Adedoyin’s impact and integrity, praising his instrumental role in establishing a robust welfare system for pastors and his unwavering commitment to the work of God.
The incumbent Provincial Pastor, Pastor Amos Okemuyiwa, led the congregation in presenting various gifts to Pastor Adedoyin and his wife, Pastor Mrs. Deborah Adedoyin, as well as other outgoing leaders, in a gesture of gratitude and recognition.
Expressing his gratitude, Pastor Adedoyin thanked God for the privilege of serving alongside the parishioners in FCT Province 7, cherishing the memories and relationships built during his tenure.
He encouraged the congregation to prioritize spiritual growth and emphasized the importance of attending Sunday school.
The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of dedicated servant leadership within the church community and a testament to the enduring bonds forged through faith and fellowship.
Other honorees included Pastor Seun Sekoni, the outgone Provincial Administration officer, and Deacon Oluwadamilare Abudu, the outgone Provincial Accountant.
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has vehemently condemned the widely reported despicable act of terrorism that recently struck Maradun town, the headquarters of Maradun L. G. A of Zamfara State, and the hometown of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. According to media reports, in the early hours of Friday, terrorists, commonly known as bandits, launched a brutal assault on the town, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and the abduction of approximately 30 residents, including women, children, and adults. The attackers, reportedly armed with sophisticated weapons, unleashed terror upon the community, shooting indiscriminately and pillaging homes. Expressing deep concern over the escalating insecurity in the region, HURIWA, in a media statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko the National Coordinator, urged the security forces to conduct a thorough investigation into the attack to ascertain if there are any political motivations behind it. Stating that the timing of the assault, coinciding with a barrage of media attacks directed at Minister Matawalle for his unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, raises suspicions of possible political dimensions to the violence, HURIWA emphasized it is imperative that the relevant authorities delve into this matter to uncover any potential links to political interests and ensure that justice is served. “In the aftermath of Matawalle’s comments advocating steadfast support for President Tinubu’s administration, voices of dissent arose, challenging the minister’s stance and calling for retraction and apology. Matawalle had emphasized the imperative of collective solidarity and unwavering loyalty to the government’s initiatives aimed at advancing the nation’s interests.” Furthermore, HURIWA called upon the federal government to redouble its efforts in bringing an end to the vicious cycle of violence plaguing the North West region, highlighting that the persistent attacks by insurgents and bandits have inflicted untold suffering upon innocent civilians and pose a grave threat to the security and stability of the nation. The prominent civil rights advocacy group reminded that it is incumbent upon the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens by implementing robust measures to combat terrorism and restore peace to the affected areas. In light of recent developments, HURIWA reiterated the importance of absolute loyalty and unity among all appointed officials, especially those from the Northern region, towards President Tinubu’s administration. The association further stressed that Minister Matawalle’s advocacy for 100% loyalty to the government’s initiatives is rooted in the imperative of collective solidarity and unwavering support for the nation’s interests, just as it stated that this stance is not only justified but also essential for the continuity of developmental efforts initiated by the current administration.
HURIWA emphasized President Tinubu’s commitment to the North, appointing Northerners to key positions, including Security, Defence, Agriculture, Education, Health, and Foreign Affairs, to address the region’s challenges. “It is noteworthy to mention the deliberate efforts made by President Tinubu in appointing individuals from the Northern region to key cabinet positions, demonstrating his commitment to addressing the challenges facing the region and fostering national unity. “As highlighted by the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, these strategic appointments aim to mobilize the restive youths in the North towards ending the persistent violence and working for the peace, development, and progress of the entire nation”, HURIWA underscored. Addressing the spurious calls for the removal of Minister Matawalle over alleged involvement in corrupt practices, HURIWA dismissed such demands as baseless and politically motivated stating that there is no valid pronouncement from any court of law indicting the minister for any wrongdoing. Referencing Section 6 of the Constitution, HURIWA reminded that only the judiciary has the authority to make legal pronouncements on such matters. Hence, the association opined that any insinuations of corruption against Matawalle remain mere conjectures until proven otherwise. “The recent petition by the APC Akida Forum calling for the removal of Dr. Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, is not only misplaced but also lacks merit. This call comes at a time when Matawalle has been vocal in his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and has faced criticism for advocating for loyalty to the administration. The timing of the petition suggests political motivations rather than genuine concerns about performance.” “Matawalle’s political influence in Northern Nigeria cannot be overstated, as he holds significant sway and commands electoral support, particularly in the North West. His contributions to the political landscape have been instrumental, and any attempt to discredit or remove him from office appears to be driven by ulterior motives aimed at undermining President Tinubu’s political profile.” “Furthermore, Matawalle’s tenure as Minister of State for Defence has been marked by notable achievements and contributions to the nation’s security sector. He has spearheaded strategic initiatives aimed at modernizing the Defence sector, enhancing training programs, and strengthening international partnerships for peacekeeping efforts. His adept navigation of complex geopolitical challenges has earned him recognition both domestically and internationally.”
“Moreover, Matawalle’s leadership style is characterized by humility, integrity, and a genuine commitment to public service. Unlike many politicians who prioritize self-interest and grandstanding, Matawalle’s approach emphasizes action over rhetoric, focusing on tangible results rather than empty promises. His dedication to the welfare of Nigerians and his steadfast commitment to national security make him a valuable asset to the administration. “Therefore, we as leading Civil rights advocacy group reject the call for Matawalle’s removal and urge the APC Akida Forum to base their criticisms on performance rather than political agenda. Matawalle’s achievements and leadership qualities exemplify the essence of true public service, and his contributions to the nation’s progress deserve recognition and support”’ HURIWA Highlighted. In conclusion, HURIWA called upon Nigerians to refrain from spreading misinformation and unsubstantiated allegations against government officials. The organization enthused that Instead, citizens should focus on constructive engagement and demand accountability through legitimate channels, as it is only through unity, vigilance, and adherence to the principles of justice and integrity that Nigeria can overcome its challenges and realize its full potential as a prosperous and inclusive nation.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, embarked on a routine inspection tour this weekend, announcing the near completion of several key infrastructure projects set to revolutionize Abuja’s transport network.
These projects, a fulfillment of the government’s promise to residents, are poised for inauguration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in celebration of his first year in office.
Wike’s tour showcased significant developments, including the Southern Parkway, Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), and the Vice President’s official residence, all nearing completion at an impressive 98% rate.
“We’ve kept our promise to the residents of Abuja,” Wike declared, highlighting the projects’ potential to enhance urban mobility and infrastructure under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Additional projects close to completion include the B6 and B12 Circle Road, Arterial Road N20, Wuye Interchange, and Guzape Lot II District Infrastructure, all expected to be operational by May.
“The President has given us tremendous support, and we are committed to ensuring these projects are completed on time to ease traffic congestion and enhance connectivity within the city,” Wike emphasized.
Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), echoed Wike’s statements, stressing the expected benefits in reducing traffic congestion and improving transportation efficiency in Abuja.
Contractors reassured their dedication to meeting the May deadline, aligning with the government’s objectives and providing necessary infrastructure improvements to support the city’s growth and development.
