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Wike Reiterates Commitment to Youth Employment , Infrastructure Development in FCT

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Abuja, Nigeria – November 22, 2024: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to creating employment opportunities and transforming Abuja into a hub of infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking during an inspection of ongoing projects across the city and satellite towns, Wike highlighted the administration’s focus on youth empowerment through meaningful engagement.

“Employment isn’t just about government jobs but creating opportunities where youths can work and earn a living,” he remarked. “Look at the number of youths engaged at our project sites; it’s fulfilling to see them contributing meaningfully to society.”

Infrastructure as a Catalyst for Job Creation

The Minister underscored the transformative role of infrastructure projects in job creation and improving residents’ quality of life. According to Wike, youths actively involved in road construction, housing developments, and other projects are being empowered, mitigating the risks of idleness and its societal consequences.

“When these jobs are not there, you can imagine what the number of youths would be doing now,” he stated, emphasizing the tangible benefits of these development initiatives.

Commending Contractors and Addressing Criticism

Wike commended contractors like Julius Berger and CGC for their commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure. He stressed the importance of ensuring equal quality for projects in both the city center and satellite communities, reflecting his administration’s inclusive approach.

On the much-debated judges’ quarters, Wike dismissed criticisms, highlighting the project’s necessity and the support it has received at the highest levels.

“When you have presidential approval and National Assembly backing, criticism becomes irrelevant,” he said. “Our focus is on creating a conducive environment for the judiciary to function optimally. Those who criticize would still complain if nothing was done.”

Residents’ Support and Governance Impact

The Minister expressed appreciation for the support and gratitude shown by FCT residents during his site visits, noting that such gestures inspire his administration to achieve more.

“Governance is about impacting lives positively, and the people’s support makes it worthwhile,” Wike said, recalling a touching moment when a resident offered him water and praised the ongoing improvements.

Strategic Project Management

Wike attributed his administration’s ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously to prudent resource allocation and teamwork. He stressed the importance of completing impactful projects rather than overextending resources.

“We’ve prioritized completing projects within available resources. It’s better to finish one impactful project than start 20 and barely complete any,” he explained.

Wike credited President Tinubu’s unwavering support for enabling the FCT Administration to deliver on its promises, reaffirming his commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda’s goals of youth empowerment and infrastructural development.

Transforming the FCT

With ongoing infrastructure projects reshaping the landscape, Wike’s vision for a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant FCT continues to gain momentum, setting new benchmarks for governance and urban development in Nigeria.

Tinubu’s Administration Prioritizes Universal Health Coverage , Industrial Harmony, Pate

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving population health outcomes and ensuring financial protection for Nigeria’s poorest and most vulnerable citizens. He highlighted these priorities during the opening ceremony of the 65th National Council on Health (NCH) held at the Mohammed Indimi Centre for Distance Learning, University of Maiduguri, Borno State.

Themed “Accelerating Pathways to Universal Health Coverage: Strategies for 2030 Success”, the NCH brought together Commissioners of Health from Nigeria’s 36 states, top Ministry officials, development partners, and civil society organizations.

Prof. Pate emphasized that the Tinubu-led administration is focused on addressing citizens’ needs, responding to their feedback, and fostering collaboration between federal and state governments to improve healthcare outcomes. He also underscored the importance of industrial harmony in the health sector, urging professional groups to prioritize public welfare.

Under the National Health Renewal Investment Initiative, Prof. Pate highlighted key achievements:

Governance and Regulation: The repositioning of regulatory bodies, including the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), to ensure the safety and efficacy of health products and systems.

Primary Health Care Revitalization: Over 8,000 Primary Health Care (PHC) centers have benefited from the N46 billion disbursed through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). The Minister added that nearly 4,000 PHCs are undergoing revitalization in collaboration with states.

Training of Health Workers: More than 43,000 frontline health workers have been trained, with a target to reach 120,000.

Prof. Pate announced significant strides in reducing maternal mortality and improving access to care for women with obstetric fistula complications. Over 1,000 women have received free care under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA).

“By the end of the year, fewer than 100 women will still be awaiting treatment for Vesico Vaginal Fistula, with services covered under the NHIA’s emergency healthcare program,” he said.

Additionally, at least 30 PHCs and secondary facilities now offer free emergency obstetric services, including cesarean sections, as part of efforts to enhance affordability and access.

Appealing to healthcare professionals, Prof. Pate urged them to keep public welfare at the forefront, assuring them that the administration is actively resolving labor-related issues.

Declaring the meeting open, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State reaffirmed the state’s dedication to the Abuja Declaration’s health funding benchmark of 15% of the annual budget. In a major announcement, the Governor approved a pay rise for state-employed medical doctors, ensuring parity with their federal counterparts.

“This forum allows us to collaborate, brainstorm, and deliver on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate to save lives, reduce pain, and ensure health for all Nigerians,” said Zulum.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, commended Governor Zulum for hosting the NCH and for his hospitality toward delegates. She also lauded his commitment to improving the welfare of the health workforce in Borno State.

The 65th NCH concluded with a renewed call to accelerate progress toward achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, aligning with the Federal Government’s vision of a healthier and more equitable Nigeria.

Alake Urges Mining CEOs to Spearhead Development Bank for Sector Growth

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has called on Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of mining companies to take the lead in establishing a mining development bank to secure long-term financing essential for the sustainable growth of Nigeria’s mining sector.

Speaking at a CEO Roundtable during the 2024 Nigeria Mining Week, Dr. Alake urged industry leaders to champion the initiative, emphasizing the importance of a private-sector-driven model to ensure independence from government interference and guarantee effectiveness.

“The establishment of a mining development bank is not just a necessity but a catalyst for unlocking the sector’s potential,” Dr. Alake stated. He emphasized that a private-sector-led approach would ensure longevity, operational efficiency, and a robust credit system tailored to the sector’s needs.

The Minister, in a statement signed by Mr. Segun Tomori, his Special Assistant on Media, assured mining executives that the federal government is actively addressing bottlenecks in the sector to create a more investor-friendly environment. “We are dismantling barriers to ease operations and attract viable investments,” he said, reiterating the government’s resolve to make mining a significant contributor to Nigeria’s economy.

Dr. Alake addressed concerns about interference from state governments, reiterating that mining remains under the federal government’s exclusive legislative jurisdiction. “We have engaged extensively with state governments to align interests constructively,” he noted.

He revealed that states can now apply for mining licenses as Limited Liability Companies to participate legally in local resource mining. “This initiative ensures inclusivity while maintaining constitutional boundaries. Several states have already embraced this approach, and we have approved licenses for those that completed the process,” he added.

Looking ahead, the Minister disclosed plans for a mining infrastructure corridor to enhance investment opportunities, noting that inter-ministerial collaborations are already underway to kickstart the project.

He also addressed ongoing reforms in the sector, including a review of the rates regime, assuring mining executives that their concerns are being carefully considered.

Dr. Alake appealed for sustained cooperation from mining CEOs, highlighting that their collaboration is vital to the success of the ongoing reforms. “These reforms will lay the groundwork for a resilient and sustainable mining sector,” he emphasized.

The roundtable served as a platform for government and industry leaders to chart a shared vision for Nigeria’s mining sector, with a strong emphasis on private-sector innovation, infrastructural development, and policy coherence.

Badaru Visits 82 Division And Other Military Formations In Enugu And Imo State

By
Victor Obabunmi
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The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni is currently in Enugu on operational tour of 82 Division of Nigerian Army and other military platforms in Enugu.

He was received on arrival by the General officer Commanding 82 Division of the Nigerian Army / Commander JTF SE of operation Udoka Major-General H.T Dada and other senior military officers.
The Minister is expected to meet with South East stakeholders on the way forward.

Details later…….

With Commitment , Resilience We Will Defeat Banditry , Terrorism- Badaru

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

….it is time to end it ..

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON has called on the Nigerian Airforce to intensify the use of their various platforms to bring an end to banditry and terrorism . According to the Minister, you are key to this this fight and we must put our acts together on your active component to end this war.

The Minister reiterated this as contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike
Director information and Public relations

Badaru said this during his operational visit to the Air Component Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA at Katsina state on Monday 18th November 2024. The Honourable Minister appreciated the heroic Air warriors who has continued to shine as beacons of hope, courage and resilience which is an inspiration to Nigerian people.

Furthermore, “the Minister opined that their efforts are yielding positive results as farmers are gradually returning to their farms, schools are reopening, businesses are picking up and Nigerians can now sleep peacefully. “

According to the Minister, the President and commander in chief of the Armed forces Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has expressed confidence on their unwavering loyalty, perseverance and professionalism. He recognizes the personal sacrifices you make every day to keep our country together.
It is pertinent to know that the President has provided the Nigerian Airforce with state of the art Aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles to enhance their attack capabilities. With the induction of these new platforms including the T129 Attack Helicopter , ” I am confident we will make Mr President and Nigerians proud.”
Consequent to this, ‘it is no coincidence that I am here today to flag off this critical phase of the Operations’. “I therefore urge you to synergize with the ground forces and other stakeholders to ensure maximum effect from these combat enablers” Badaru said.

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON mni continued his operational visit by also going to sokoto to inspect the combat readiness of the platforms and also toured the new site where the permanent base of the newly established Airforce component of military operations against banditry and terrorism and facilities will be built at sokoto Airport.

In his remarks, the chief of the Air staff , Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, appreciated the Minister’s servant leadership style which is an inspiration to all. For him , the T129 Attack Helicopters will transform our operational capabilities to those who think they can destabilize our nation.

Senate Approves $2.209 Billion Loan Request by President Tinubu for 2024 Budget Deficit

By
Roland Edet
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0

The Nigerian Senate on Thursday approved a $2.209 billion (equivalent to N1.767 trillion) loan request by President Bola Tinubu to help address the N9.7 trillion deficit in the N28.7 trillion 2024 budget.

The approval, which came within 48 hours of receiving the President’s letter, highlights the urgency of financing critical development projects outlined in the 2024 Appropriation Act.

Fast-Tracked Deliberation

On Tuesday, President Tinubu formally requested approval from the National Assembly for the loan, emphasizing its importance in funding ongoing projects and economic programs. Following this, the Senate tasked its Committee on Local and Foreign Debts to review the proposal and provide recommendations within 24 hours.

Committee Report

Presenting the report, Senator Aliyu Wammako (APC, Sokoto North), Chairman of the Committee on Local and Foreign Debts, described the loan as critical for Nigeria’s growth and stability.

According to the report:

The loan will help finance ongoing projects and key programs in the 2024 Appropriation Act.

It aligns with Nigeria’s Debt Management Strategy by reducing borrowing costs, extending public debt maturity, and increasing external reserves.

The loan is to be raised through various instruments, including Eurobonds, Sukuk issuance in the International Capital Market (ICM), and syndicated loans, depending on market conditions.

Senate Recommendations

The Committee recommended that the Senate approve:

  1. The implementation of the new external borrowing of N1.767 trillion (equivalent to $2.209 billion) at the official exchange rate of USD1/N800.
  2. The issuance of Eurobonds amounting to $1.7 billion or more, capped at $2.209 billion, as part of the new borrowing strategy.
  3. The utilization of any exchange rate excess from adjustments (USD1/N1,640) for capital projects in 2024, ensuring funds are directed toward infrastructure and development for long-term growth.

Senate Approval and Commendation

Following the presentation, the Senate swiftly approved the loan request without opposition. The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, who presided over the session, commended the Wammako-led Committee for its thorough analysis and timely delivery of the report.

Implications of the Loan

The loan will play a significant role in:

Reducing domestic market borrowing pressure.

Enhancing Nigeria’s external reserves.

Providing much-needed funding for capital projects and infrastructure development.

This approval underscores the Senate’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges while fostering growth through strategic investments.

Reps Committee Warns Five Federal Polytechnics Over Absence at Budget Performance Meeting

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The Federal House of Representatives Committee on Polytechnics and Other Higher Technical Education has issued a stern warning to five Federal Polytechnics for failing to honor its invitation to present their budget performance reports.

The Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Fuad Kayode Laguda, expressed disappointment at the absence of representatives from Federal Polytechnic Nekede (Imo State), Federal Polytechnic Ohodo (Enugu State), Federal Polytechnic Oko (Anambra State), Federal Polytechnic Akanu Ibiam (Ebonyi State), and Federal Polytechnic Isouchi (Abia State) during a meeting scheduled for November 20, 2024.

Legislative Oversight Dismissed as “Disregarded”

Addressing reporters after the aborted meeting, Rep. Laguda remarked, “This Committee views the absence of these institutions’ representatives as a sign of disregard for legislative oversight, and it will not be tolerated.”

He emphasized the critical role of legislative oversight in ensuring transparency, accountability, and the efficient functioning of federal institutions. He also reiterated that noncompliance with invitations undermines the accountability framework that guides public administration.

South-East Polytechnics Under Scrutiny

The Chairman expressed specific disappointment over the non-attendance by South-East institutions, noting that such behavior was unprecedented in the Committee’s interactions with other geopolitical zones.

“This is the first time we are witnessing such regrettable action from any polytechnic in Nigeria,” Laguda said. “Institutions from the North-West, North-Central, North-East, South-West, and South-South have complied with our engagements. It is surprising and disheartening that schools from the South-East have bluntly refused to honor this invitation.”

Missed Opportunities for Accountability

Rep. Laguda disclosed that the meeting, scheduled for 12:00 PM, was delayed for over 90 minutes due to the poor turnout. Only one institution’s representative arrived, and without the requisite documents.

“The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic in Abia State strolled in singlehandedly without any document whatsoever, claiming to attend the meeting. This level of unpreparedness is unacceptable,” he said.

Legal Backing for Legislative Oversight

The Committee reminded the defaulting institutions of the National Assembly’s constitutional authority under Sections 89 and 129 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). These sections empower the legislature to summon individuals, demand the submission of documents, and enforce attendance through warrants if necessary.

Additionally, the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act grants Committees the authority to summon any

Tinubu Calls for Stronger African Military Cooperation at Africa Military Games

By
Nnenna Nwankwo
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0

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for greater collaboration among African militaries to address the continent’s shared security challenges. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming threats to Africa’s stability.

“No single nation can address its security challenges in isolation,” Tinubu said. “Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together as one united Africa. Today’s event is not just about extraordinary athletes; it is a powerful reminder of the cooperation that binds our military institutions across this continent.”

Reviving a Legacy of Military Cooperation

The Africa Military Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” revives an initiative launched over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya. The event aims to strengthen ties across African nations by fostering camaraderie, discipline, and resilience among military personnel.

Tinubu praised the leadership of Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Brigadier General Maikano Abdullahi, for their efforts in bringing the games back to life. He noted that the event symbolizes Africa’s collective potential.

“This historic platform not only promotes fitness and discipline but also reaffirms what we can achieve when we come together—not just as neighbors but as guardians of our shared continent,” Tinubu said.

Celebrating African Unity and Talent

General Christopher Musa described the Games as a testament to the unity and diversity of Africa’s armed forces. “These Games remind us of the power of cooperation and friendship,” Musa said, urging the 1,625 athletes and officials from 20 African nations to compete with fairness and sportsmanship.

Brigadier General Abdullahi highlighted the Games as a realization of OSMA’s founding vision. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for hosting the event, which he said showcases the rich cultural and athletic heritage of African militaries. “This is more than a competition; it is a platform to reignite the bonds that unite us as brothers and sisters in arms,” Abdullahi remarked.

A Grand Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony featured a vibrant display of African unity through calisthenics, the hoisting of OSMA and AMGA flags, torch lighting, and oath-taking by athletes. Nigerian music icons, including Timi Dakolo, Yemi Alade, Olamide, and D’banj, electrified the audience with performances, while a dazzling fireworks display concluded the evening.

The Games Ahead

Scheduled from November 18 to 30, the Africa Military Games will feature 20 sports events, with participants from across the continent. The competition underscores the critical role of military collaboration in promoting regional stability and safeguarding the future of a united and prosperous Africa. Athletes are encouraged to embody the spirit of unity, resilience, and fairness throughout the games.

This edition of the Africa Military Games not only celebrates athletic excellence but also strengthens the bonds of military cooperation, serving as a powerful reminder of what Africa can achieve through unity.

State Police: NEC Issues One-Week Deadline to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, FCT

By
Saladin Babagana
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0

The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued a one-week ultimatum to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi States, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to submit their reports on the establishment of state police. The failure of these states and the FCT to comply may delay the implementation of the long-anticipated policy aimed at addressing insecurity across Nigeria.

Background

The NEC, as part of its efforts to combat the escalating insecurity in the country, had resolved to gather comprehensive reports from all 36 states and the FCT on the framework for establishing state police. The decision aligns with the recommendation made by state governors and supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who, on February 15, 2024, endorsed state police as a viable solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.

States were tasked with submitting their individual recommendations and proposals to guide NEC’s deliberations and inform the next steps in actualizing state police.

NEC’s Warning

In its latest meeting, NEC reiterated that any state or territory that fails to meet the submission deadline would have to abide by decisions made without its input. This serves as a final reminder to Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, and the FCT to comply before the one-week deadline elapses.

Implications

The creation of state police is seen as a critical step in decentralizing Nigeria’s security architecture, granting states the autonomy to manage localized security issues. However, the delay caused by non-compliance from some states and the FCT could hinder progress, delaying deliberations and subsequent implementation of the policy.

NEC emphasized the importance of collective input to ensure that the framework for state police is inclusive, effective, and tailored to the specific needs of each state and region.

Conclusion

As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Kwara, Adamawa, Kebbi, and the FCT to comply and ensure that the critical process of establishing state police remains on track. The move toward decentralizing law enforcement is considered a significant reform in Nigeria’s efforts to address its multifaceted security challenges.

House of Representatives Rejects Single Six-Year Term for President, Governors, Local Government Chairmen

By
Olajumoke Sanusi
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0

The House of Representatives has rejected a proposed constitutional amendment seeking to establish a single six-year term for the President, State Governors, and Local Government Chairmen. The bill, which underwent its second reading on Thursday, November 21, 2024, failed to gain the necessary support as lawmakers voted overwhelmingly against it.

Highlights of the Proposed Bill

The bill aimed to amend key sections of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), including Sections 76, 116, 132, and 136, with the following major provisions:

  1. Single Six-Year Term:
    The bill proposed a single six-year term for the President, State Governors, and Local Government Chairmen to promote inclusive governance and reduce the costs associated with the current four-year election cycle.
  2. Rotation of Presidency:
    The amendment to Section 132 sought to rotate the office of the President between Nigeria’s North and South every six years. It further proposed intra-regional rotation among the three geopolitical zones within each region.
  3. Simultaneous Elections:
    Sections 76 and 116 were to be amended to mandate simultaneous elections for the President, Governors, National Assembly, State Houses of Assembly, and Local Government Councils on the same day, as determined by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in consultation with the National Assembly.
  4. Mid-Term Accountability:
    A new section, 188, required Governors to present a mid-term stewardship report to the State House of Assembly after three years. Legislators would then assess the report and, if dissatisfied, could initiate impeachment proceedings.
  5. Provisions for Succession:
    Amendments to Section 136 provided that if a President-elect or Governor-elect dies or is unable to be sworn in, their running mate would assume office and appoint a deputy, subject to legislative approval.

House Members’ Reactions

During the debate, proponents of the bill highlighted its potential to ensure stability, reduce the high costs of frequent elections, and address Nigeria’s governance challenges through rotational leadership. They argued that a single six-year term could eliminate distractions caused by re-election campaigns and focus leaders on governance.

However, the majority of lawmakers strongly opposed the bill, citing concerns about:

Democratic Principles: Many argued that the proposed single term would deprive citizens of the opportunity to hold leaders accountable through re-election.

Regional Tensions: The mandatory rotation of the presidency between North and South, and further among geopolitical zones, was seen as potentially divisive and overly prescriptive.

Implementation Challenges: The requirement for simultaneous elections and mid-term performance evaluations was criticized as cumbersome and unrealistic.

The Speaker of the House, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, presided over the plenary session and, after putting the bill to a voice vote, declared that the “nays” had it.

Conclusion

The rejection of the bill underscores the challenges of achieving constitutional amendments in Nigeria, particularly on issues that directly impact political structures and power dynamics. As the debate over electoral and governance reforms continues, it remains to be seen whether similar proposals will be revisited or modified to gain broader acceptance in the future.

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