In a generous initiative, over four hundred orphans and widows from Kebbi were awarded free UTME forms and comprehensive education scholarships. The philanthropic effort was spearheaded by Alhaji Manir Musa, a Jega-based philanthropist and the chairman of M TECH Foundation.
Alhaji Manir Musa stated that the selected youth for the scholarship predominantly comprise orphans who exhibit academic brilliance but face financial constraints hindering their pursuit of higher education. The aim of the initiative is to provide support to these talented individuals and help them realize their educational aspirations.
To further empower the recipients, the foundation has established a UTME mock center, ensuring they are well-versed in computer skills essential for computer-based examinations. Successful candidates in these mock exams will be granted all-expenses-paid scholarships for their preferred university or tertiary institution in Nigeria.
Alhaji Manir Musa appealed to affluent individuals in society to assist determined yet financially disadvantaged individuals, particularly those who have lost parents or lack the financial means to fund their education. The initiative seeks to create opportunities for education and empower those with the will to study but face economic challenges.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, has called upon the media to play a crucial role in holding public officials accountable on behalf of the Nigerian people. The minister emphasized that the administration’s inaugural ministerial briefings aim to rebuild public trust in the government and amplify its policies.
In his role as the Minister of Information, Idris expressed his commitment to enhancing the government’s image and the reputation of those working within it. He pledged to deploy a dynamic information system to provide citizens and the global community with credible and timely information.
The minister outlined a four-pillar program aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on restoring trust and confidence in the government through proactive and credible communication of policies. He emphasized the determination to engage stakeholders across government, media, private sector, and the international community.
“We are highlighting and amplifying the policies, programs, and achievements of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Administration, showcasing their positive impact on the lives of the Nigerian people,” stated Idris.
Additionally, the ministry is working on national campaigns for reorienting attitudes, values, and ethics in Nigeria, with the upcoming launch of Nigeria’s new National Values Charter. The charter will outline the rights and responsibilities between the government and citizens, forming the basis for national reorientation campaigns.
Idris also highlighted efforts to modernize and upgrade the Federal Government’s Information and Communications Systems and Personnel for relevance in the 21st century.
Addressing the media, the minister invited them as partners to engage public officers and hold them accountable on behalf of the people, emphasizing the administration’s transparency. “We are creating an enabling environment for all players and stakeholders in the media and information ecosystem through the implementation of favorable policies and incentives.”
The minister stressed the critical importance of the maiden briefing, featuring Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, in line with the administration’s emphasis on the country’s food security.
In a poignant message marking the commencement of Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, urged Nigerians to rally behind those grappling with economic hardships. Emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, repentance, spiritual growth, and compassion, the Archbishop delivered this call during his address to Christians in Abuja.
The statement conveyed the essence of Ash Wednesday, highlighting the symbolic significance of ashes as a reminder of human mortality and humble origins. Archbishop Okoh stressed the need for individuals to ponder their purpose, the impact of their actions, and seek forgiveness during this solemn period.
Addressing the societal dimension, the Archbishop urged Christians to grieve for personal and national sins and to actively contribute to the well-being of others, mirroring the compassionate actions of Christ. He called for solidarity and support for those in need, emphasizing the importance of leaders recognizing and addressing economic challenges.
“As we embark on this Lenten journey, our hearts are drawn to the plight of many who struggle to make ends meet, facing financial uncertainty and limited access to basic needs,” the statement declared. Archbishop Okoh appealed to leaders at all governance levels to acknowledge the urgency of economic challenges, urging concrete actions to provide support for those enduring economic hardships.
Expressing a vision for a more inclusive and compassionate society, the Archbishop urged collective commitment to building a Nigeria where the burdens of the marginalized are alleviated, and their voices heard. The message concluded with a call to embrace understanding, empathy, and service during this Lenten season, working together to foster a nation where compassion and support for fellow citizens are central values.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Steel Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, stressed the pivotal role of the Steel Sector in the oil and gas industry during his address at the 8th Sub-Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (SAIPEC).
Ahmadu underscored that steel is indispensable for resource extraction, fueling the economy, and fabricating components essential for oil and gas exploration, production, and transportation.
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic move in establishing the Ministry of Steel Development, Ahmadu asserted its alignment with Nigeria’s industrialization and economic diversification objectives.
Highlighting steel’s significance in driving sustainable economic growth, Ahmadu emphasized its crucial role in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda’s objectives.
The Minister emphasized the need for collaboration between the Ministry of Steel Development and the oil and gas industry, stating that steel fabrication is vital for constructing reliable structures in harsh environments.
Encouraging partnerships, joint ventures, and knowledge sharing, Ahmadu envisioned a mutually beneficial ecosystem fostering growth for both sectors.
He acknowledged the National Metallurgical Training Institute (NMTI) for industry-specific training and lauded the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN) for its commitment to advancing the petroleum industry.
Anticipating opportunities for collaboration and innovation at SAIPEC 2024, Ahmadu expressed confidence in the event’s potential to connect stakeholders.
At a dinner marking 75 years of Dorman Long Engineering, Ahmadu praised the company’s success and transformative collaborations across industries.
Chairman of Dorman Long Engineering, Dr. Timi Austen-Peters, affirmed the company’s commitment to partnering with the Ministry of Steel Development for the infrastructural development of Nigeria, recognizing the vital role of steel in various aspects of human existence.
In a decisive move, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) executed the demolition of illegal structures in Gwarinpa, resulting in the displacement of over fifteen thousand occupants. According to Muktar Galadima, the FCT Director of Development Control, the demolished structures were impeding Road N16, a crucial artery connecting the Federal Secretariat, Maitama, Katampe, Jahi, and Gwarinpa.
Galadima emphasized the necessity of the demolition, stating that it paved the way for the impending road construction project. The Engineering Department of FCTA, having already awarded the construction project, is poised to commence work promptly.
“These structures were unlawfully erected within the road corridor, compelling their removal to facilitate the essential road construction,” Galadima clarified.
Addressing the relocation of displaced occupants, Galadima mentioned that the FCTA was ensuring alternative arrangements for their housing needs. He noted that the illegal occupation of the area ranged between 10,000 to 15,000 people, underscoring the urgency to proceed with the road construction post-clearance.
Dr. Peter Olumuji, the Secretary of FCT Command and Control Center, shed light on the security aspect of the demolition. The demolished shanties, he revealed, had gained notoriety for harboring criminal activities, including illicit drug dealing, rape cases, and armed robbery incidents.
Olumuji expressed optimism that the removal of these structures would significantly improve security in Gwarinpa and its vicinity, offering a safer environment for residents.
Wike Offers N20 Million Bounty on Three Notorious Kidnappers, Urges Police Action
***Pledges Support to Enhance Police Operations
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Barr. Nyesom Wike, has announced a N20 million bounty on the heads of the thee remaining notorious criminals still at large, urging the FCT Police Commissioner to apprehend them, either dead or alive.
He made this declaration during his first visit to the FCT Police Command, where recently arrested criminals were publicly paraded on Wednesday in Abuja.
Expressing his commitment to addressing criminal activities in the territory, Wike emphasized, “I will give them N20 million, go and fish them out from wherever they are, use that money on their head. I want to see them dead or alive.”
The minister commended the FCT Police Command and promised additional support, including more vehicles and communication gadgets, to enhance intelligence gathering and arrests.
“We will do everything humanly possible to provide all that you require to fight crime and criminality in FCT. We believe in the next few weeks you will get more vehicles, more communication gadgets that will enable you and your men to face these criminals,” stated Wike.
Assuring residents of the FCT, he highlighted the government’s of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu preparedness to combat crime, saying, “Every day is for the thief, the onr day is for the owner of the house.”
Wike urged residents to view the police as allies and encouraged them to provide crucial information for effective law enforcement.
Meanwhile, the FCT Commissioner of Police, Bennett Igweh, reported successful arrests of eight members of a one-chance group and the most wanted gang of kidnappers, based on credible intelligence.
Additionally, the head of a criminal syndicate, operating with their wives, was apprehended after collecting N2 million each on behalf of their husbands.
This group was responsible for kidnappings and killings in Kabusa, Defense estate, and surrounding areas, Igweh hinted.
***Legislation Aims to Formalize Sector , Bridge Federal-State Coordination Gaps
Abuja, Nigeria – The House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals is advocating a 5% allocation of revenue from all mined minerals to host communities (Hostcom) as part of a legislative initiative to address challenges in the sector. Hon. Jonathan Gaza, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, unveiled this proposal during a Public Policy Dialogue held in Abuja on Monday.
The proposed legislation, titled the “Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (Amendment) Bill,” seeks to amend the principal Nigeria Minerals and Mining Act of 2007. Sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Gbefwi and Rep. Benjamin Kalu, the bill aims to formalize collaboration between state and federal governments to maximize sector benefits.
In his address, Chairman Gaza emphasized the importance of the bill in addressing key factors contributing to the stalemate in the Solid Minerals sector, including security challenges. He highlighted the establishment of the Mines Inspection and Environmental Agency, providing improved oversight of mining activities, with offices in every state for enhanced reporting and oversight.
The bill further proposes the creation of a Solid Minerals Development Company, with 75% ownership allocated to the private sector and 25% to the federation of Nigeria. Gaza highlighted the need to strengthen the bill and called for support in its solidification.
The Chairman stressed the significance of bridging coordination gaps between federal and state governments, empowering the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) for effective joint oversight.
Gaza stated, “The bill further empowers the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) to enable effective and joint oversight of the sector. It is clear that MIREMCO is poorly funded and lacks the resources it needs to support its activities. The Bill hopes to use MIREMCO as the facilitating tools for the government to work with State governments to secure their needs to ensure formalization of the sector.”
Highlighting the focus on community development and environmental protection, the bill proposes allocating 5% of the revenue from all mined minerals to host communities. Gaza emphasized the need for environmental remediation funding to ensure the proper restoration of sites after mining activities.
The Public Policy Dialogue served as a platform for stakeholders to actively participate in the legislative process and provide input for the bill’s adoption and implementation. Deputy Speaker Rep. Kalu, co-sponsor of the bill, underscored the potential of Nigeria’s mining sector for economic growth, job creation, and foreign exchange earnings. Despite challenges such as insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of skilled labor, the Deputy Speaker expressed confidence in the sector’s ability to contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors have raised alarm over the prevailing hardship in Nigeria, expressing fears that the nation is on a trajectory reminiscent of Venezuela’s struggles. The PDP Governors’ Forum, in a meeting lasting over three hours, attributed the hardship to the country’s economic and security challenges.
The dire situation in Venezuela, characterized by political corruption, food and medicine shortages, business closures, unemployment, and economic mismanagement, serves as a cautionary comparison for the PDP governors.
Chairman of the Forum and Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, emphasized their collaborative efforts with the federal government to address rising living costs. Governor Mohammed acknowledged that economic and monetary policies primarily rest with the federal government but highlighted the governors’ commitment to mitigating the effects of such policies on the people.
Expressing concern over the free fall of the naira and the escalating cost of living, Governor Mohammed stated, “We are almost on the road to Venezuela. We are giving concrete opposition but not insulting anybody. Ultimately the decision squarely rests with Nigerians and other organs in the country to make sure that we do things that will bring succor to all of us.”
The PDP governors reiterated their call for state police, with safeguards in place to prevent abuse or overreach by any tier of government. Additionally, they addressed the crisis in Edo PDP, asserting the party’s commitment to democracy and constructive criticism of the federal government’s policies.
The governors expressed unity and support for Edo State, affirming their backing of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by Acting National Chairman Iliya Damagum. They called for the convening of a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to address recent developments within the party.
In a vote of confidence for the NWC, the governors committed to revitalizing and repositioning the PDP as an effective opposition to the ruling party in Nigeria. The meeting included governors from various states, with a collective pledge to navigate challenges and work towards a brighter future for the party and the nation.
Abuja, Nigeria – In a formal address during the inauguration of the 10th House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD, the Speaker of Nigeria’s Federal House of Representatives, expressed deep concerns regarding the widespread disregard and non-compliance with safety standards by various public and private institutions across the country.
Represented by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Abbas underscored the fundamental right of citizens to a secure and hazard-free workplace, as globally acknowledged in declarations of human rights. However, he acknowledged the challenge of translating this right into reality, emphasizing the persistent difficulties in identifying, eliminating, and controlling hazards.
The Speaker lamented the recurring devastating effects of unsafe practices, citing instances such as fatal motor accidents, explosions, boat mishaps, accidental discharge, and market fires. These tragic events have resulted in the loss of innocent lives and properties.
Despite governmental efforts and initiatives by institutions, NGOs, and safety advocates, the Speaker noted that the nation continues to grapple with safety lapses due to the disregard for existing standards and regulations. Abbas urged both private and public institutions to assume responsibility for controlling the inherent risks in their operations.
The Speaker commended the newly inaugurated Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations, chaired by Hon (Dr.) Sulaiman Abubakar Gumi, FNSE, for their pragmatic strategic plan. Abbas expressed confidence that the committee’s legislative and oversight functions would address the challenges faced by Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and the Private Sector.
In his words, the Speaker stated, “I am confident that their legislative and oversight functions would resolve the challenges faced by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and the Private Sector.” He further emphasized the importance of a systematic and holistic approach to safety, encouraging institutions to engage competent individuals in managing safety aspects.
Highlighting the commitment of the House of Representatives to safety, Abbas disclosed ongoing efforts to upgrade safety and security architecture within their complex, including a forthcoming fire risk assessment and drill.
The Speaker concluded the address by formally launching the Strategic Document of the House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations, reaffirming the Leadership of the House’s support for the committee’s goals.
…Says it signifies a milestone in Nigeria’s Defence capabilities
Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has praised the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) for its recent acquisition of T-129 ATAK helicopters and King Air 360i aircraft.
At the induction ceremony in Markudi, Benue State, the Minister stated that these acquisitions mark a significant milestone in Nigeria’s defense capabilities.
He emphasized the platforms’ role in countering emerging security threats and safeguarding national sovereignty.
The ceremony, attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces for enhanced operational readiness.
The Minister stated this during the induction ceremony of the T-129 ATAK helicopters and King Air 360i aircraft at NAF Base in Markudi, Benue State.
This was made available to newsmen in a release signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director ( Information and Public Relations).
The ceremony which was presided over by Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR who was ably represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
While commending the newly acquired platforms, Badaru stated that: “The acquisition and induction of these cutting-edge platforms signify a significant milestone in Nigeria’s defense capabilities.”
He added that the platforms would boost the nation’s ability to effectively counter emerging security threats and safeguard our nation’s sovereignty against threat’s.
The ceremony showcased Nigeria’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and enhancing operational readiness.
Speaking on the strategic importance of the platforms, he said that they would enhance the nation’s airpower in maintaining national security.
“The induction of these state-of-the-art aircraft demonstrates our unwavering resolve to equip our military with the tools necessary to confront evolving security challenges,” he stated.
The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to providing the Nigerian Armed Forces with the resources needed to uphold peace and stability across the nation.
“We remain steadfast in our support for the Nigeria Air Force, other Services and security Agencies, we will empower them to fulfill their mandate of protecting our citizens and defending our territorial integrity,” he said.
Th Minister also expressed confidence in the Nigeria Air Force’s ability to leverage on the new capabilities effectively. “I do not doubt that the professionalism and dedication of our air personnel, coupled with these advanced aircraft, will further enhance our national defense posture and contribute to the security and well-being of all Nigerians,” he said.
