The nationwide onslaught of the federal government against illegal mining has gathered momentum with the arrest of several suspects allegedly involved in the illegal mining of gold in Yagba East LGA, Kogi State.
This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday by Mr Segun Tomori, the Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
The operation, carried out by the mining marshals in Iyeh Odogbe, Isanlu community of Yagba East LGA, involved dislodging illegal miners whose activities have prevented lawfully authorized miners with licenses covering four cadastral units from accessing the site for 16 years. Reports indicate that the nefarious activities have gone unhindered for over 20 years.
The well-coordinated operation, led by Commander, Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, resulted in the arrest of seven (7) suspects heading different groups of illegal miners in the area.
Following the successful operation, site workers were given 5 days to completely vacate the site as operations to effectively secure the area and ensure it is fully recovered for lawful mining activities will continue in earnest.
It will be recalled that a similar operation was carried out recently by the mining marshals in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, leading to the arrest of eight (8) Chinese nationals and a Nigerian, suspected to be involved in illegal mining.
The trial of the suspects commenced last week at the Federal High Court, Abuja division, and they were remanded in Kuje prisons until the adjourned date.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, under the leadership of Dr. Dele Alake is committed to fighting the menace of illegal mining headlong and bringing culprits to book
***Healthcare Chief Urges Government Action , Innovation Amidst Growing Health Crisis
Dr. Christopher Otabor, Chief Medical Director of Alliance Hospital, has sounded a grave warning about the impact of Nigeria’s economic crisis on the nation’s healthcare system, stating that it is resulting in an alarming increase in deaths.
“The economy is taking a direct hit on our health system, and people are dying in their numbers. We can’t hide from that, and we cannot afford to keep quiet, fold our hands, and do nothing. We must respond,” Dr. Otabor declared during his keynote address at a lecture organised by the Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
Dr. Otabor called for innovation among healthcare professionals to mitigate the crisis. “We must think of new ways of doing things and improve the health situation to make the best out of the already bad situation,” he emphasized. He urged the government at all levels to take responsibility and act decisively, noting, “We cannot continue to behave like drunken sailors in a sinking ship. There is a crisis in the land, and things cannot continue as usual.”
Highlighting the severe impact of the economic downturn, Dr. Otabor explained, “Whenever there is an economic crisis, it takes a terrible toll on healthcare. We are facing inflation rates we haven’t seen in recent years, compounded by a high misery index. When you have inflation coupled with unemployment, that’s misery.
Additionally, there’s stagflation due to the lack of economic growth, inflation, and unemployment. These three factors are hitting the system hard, affecting the health of the population.”
Dr. Otabor detailed the cascading effects of the crisis, including disruptions in the healthcare supply chain, reduced demand for healthcare services, malnutrition, late presentation at hospitals, and increased incidence and complications of both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
“People are not able to access healthcare, and even the supply chain is affected. Many companies are folding up and leaving the country, making the cost of healthcare supplies even more out of reach for ordinary people.
People are committing suicide over a thousand naira anti-malarial medicine because they can’t afford it. Most now patronize quacks because they can’t afford to come to the hospital,” he lamented.
Dr. Otabor called for innovative solutions to reach as many people as possible. “We must come up with new ways to enable us to provide care to the masses despite the economic challenges,” he urged. He also highlighted the broader impacts of the economic crisis on population health, including increased domestic violence, mental health problems, suicide rates, and overall mortality.
“We must take responsibility at both government and hospital levels to ensure we make the best out of the little resources available and address this crisis head-on,” Dr. Otabor concluded.
The Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Prof. Saad Aliyu Ahmed, who hosted the event, revealed that the hospital management is seeking collaborative partnerships to drive research programs, including signing an MoU with Base University. Represented by the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Muftau Bioku, Prof. Ahmed expressed unwavering support for the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), emphasizing, “Our doors are open to all.”
In her welcome speech, MDCAN Chairman Dr. Eziechila Bassie highlighted the relevance of this year’s theme, “Crisis Response: Strengthening Health Systems During Economic Uncertainty,” considering the current economic challenges in the country. “We are experiencing unprecedented economic hardship,” Dr. Bassie stated. “The inflation rate is soaring, severely impacting the masses and affecting every aspect of our lives, including health.
Although the Nigerian government has made efforts to reach common Nigerians through the National Health Insurance Act, the percentage of Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable, who have benefited remains alarmingly low. One wonders what our health indices will look like in a couple of years if the economic situation is not adequately addressed.”
…Our doors are open for possible collaboration- Badaru.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, has urged the Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State (FUD) to partner with the Ministry Defence on Conflict resolution and research on Military equipment production and repair through Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.
Receiving the Vice Chancellor of FUD, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed and Management Staff of the University in Ship House, Abuja, the Minister said the Ministry is open for possible collaboration with the Federal University Dutse and other indigenous companies in areas of conflict resolution and production of defence equipment.He emphasized the importance of collaboration in conflict resolution studies and research for defence hardware production.
“With our DICON Bill, we are encouraging our indigenous companies to be involved in the production of weapons, ammunition and spare parts for our military hardware,” he said.
The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is a Nigerian company responsible for the production of military equipment and hardware for the Nigerian Armed Forces. Its main objective is to achieve self-sufficiency in military equipment production, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.
The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor for his leadership and innovations, urging for sustained collaboration for national benefit.
On his part, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Dutse, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed congratulated the Minister on his achievements, acknowledging his contributions to the University’s development during and after his tenure as Jigawa State Governor, including the establishment of the University’s Teaching Hospital and flagship structures. “Your contributions to the development of our University as the Executive Governor of Jigawa state is enormous and unprecedented and also your continued contributions to date” he said.
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of Health Services and Environment (FCTA), delivered a keynote speech at the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) One Day Conference on July 18, 2024, highlighting the critical state of Nigeria’s primary healthcare system amidst the economic downturn.
She emphasized the urgent need to tackle corruption to ensure effective delivery of primary healthcare services.
Dr. Fasawe noted that Nigeria’s primary healthcare system falls short of its goal due to pervasive corruption and inefficiencies, resulting in alarming health indices such as high maternal and under-5 mortality rates.
Despite significant funding, corruption continues to plague the system, obstructing access to key social services.
She called for a comprehensive approach to combat corruption, emphasizing strong governance, transparency, and accountability.
Dr. Fasawe lauded recent initiatives but stressed the need for more robust measures, including a cashless payment system and an Electronic Health Information System.
During the panel discussion, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, Permanent Secretary, Health Services and Environment (FCTA), highlighted the pressing issues undermining primary healthcare in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He emphasized the urgent need for accountability and collaboration, citing significant gaps in coordination between the World Development Committees and Primary HealthCare Centers.
Dr. Adam recounted a recent visit to the Jahi 1 Primary Healthcare Center, where he found visible gaps in coordination and a disheartening incident where plans to construct a drug store and toilet were thwarted by the World Development Committee.
He also noted the absence of the clinic head during their inspection and contrasted this with a visit to the Gidan Mangoro comprehensive health center, which had excellent conditions and staff presence.
However, Dr. Adam pointed out critical issues with the disbursement of funds at the national level, inadequate infrastructure, and financial accountability.
He criticized the practice of withdrawing entire sums of allocated money in bulk for disbursement, which opens the door to misuse, and advocated for a more transparent system where vendors are paid directly from the account to prevent misuse.
Both Dr. Fasawe and Dr. Adam’s remarks underscore the critical need for improved accountability, transparency, and collaboration in Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.
Their calls to action resonate as powerful reminders that effective healthcare delivery hinges on the integrity and efficiency of every stakeholder involved.
Following the provision of Section 25 (1) of Kaduna State Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Law 2024, that has empowered Local Government Council Election in the state, youths under the umbrella of United Youths For Good Government And Grassroot Progressive (UYAGP) have endorsed Comrade Yunusa Ahmadu Yusuf as their preferred nominee for the Chairmanship of Kagarko Local Government Council under the All Progressive Congress, APC.
The declaration was made by President of the association, Comrade Tanko Ayuba, who stated that Comr. Yusuf, popularly known as ‘Buhu Barkonun Abuja’ doubles as Sarkin Tausayi of Dnata has served diligently in various capacities, precisely as a youth leader in Abuja and holds other sensitive offices credited to his prowess in leadership.
According to the group, the Nigerian freedom fighter, is the right and incomparable man for the number one job of Kagarko LGC.
In solidarity for their a pacesetter whom they also refer to as ‘Abuja Youths Advocate (Mai fada yayi) the group flew banners branded, Comrade Yusuf, #KagarkonaBuhunBarkonu we know#.
“His indelible blueprint and advocacy for both women and children from both his homeland and the nation at large has indeed, left us with no doubt but to throw our hearts behind this illustrious son of Kagarko Land.
“We are therefore, endorsing him on a mandatory ground to Chair the affairs of our people from the grassroots, his homeland, and we call on our Able Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani to adopt him as a son and support the wish of the people for more Grassroot and elevation of our people” he said.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) Health Service and Environment Secretariat has categorically denied viral news reports claiming that 10 children have died from measles in Damagaza community.
In a statement signed by Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, on Wednesday, the FCTA clarified that a multi-sectoral team conducted an investigation in Damagaza community and found no evidence to substantiate the rumors.
The team, comprising the Executive Secretary of the Primary Health Care Board, the Director of Public Health, the State Epidemiologist, and other officials, engaged with key community leaders, including the Mai Anguwa, the Women Leader, and community volunteers.
However, the community head and other informants stated that they were unaware of any recent child deaths due to measles.
Dr. Fasawe emphasized that measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that requires a professional diagnosis following laboratory investigation, which was not conducted before the report was published.
Additionally, the reported deaths were not known to the village head or other key informants, including health workers at the Damagaza Primary Health Care facility. The names, parents, ages, sex, and addresses of the deceased children could not be confirmed.
The FCT Administration strongly stated that the rumors of 10 deaths due to a measles outbreak in Damagaza are false and urged residents to disregard the misinformation and continue their activities peacefully.
The statement reassured citizens that the FCT’s surveillance system is active and sensitive enough to prevent, detect, or control outbreaks.
Dr. Fasawe called on news agencies to thoroughly investigate and verify information with the appropriate authorities before publication.
Furthermore, NGOs and community-based organizations were warned against setting up parallel surveillance structures and raising false alarms that cause panic for organizational gain.
The government will not tolerate unsubstantiated reports and will sanction those responsible for spreading misinformation.
DEFENCE MINISTER LAUDS HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS AS CRITICAL TO NATIONAL SECURITY
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has commended the efforts of the Senior Special Adviser ( SSA) to the President on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Delu Bulus Yakubu, saying that her efforts are crucial in addressing national security.
The Minister said this when he received the SSA at Ship House, Abuja, As contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr Fcpe Director ( Information and Public Relations) of Ministry of Defence.
The Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Office of the SSA on Humanitarian Affairs to address national security and poverty alleviation. He acknowledged that national security encompasses not only military strength but also addressing poverty and lack of opportunities.
The visit underscored the importance of collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Office of the SSA on Humanitarian Affairs in addressing national security and poverty alleviation.
The Minister praised the SSA’s dedication to humanitarian affairs and poverty alleviation, assuring her of the Ministry’s willingness to collaborate on joint initiatives. “Your commitment to humanitarian affairs is admirable, and we are eager to work together to implement comprehensive strategies that will benefit our nation,” he said.
On her part, the Senior Special Adviser congratulated the Minister on his achievements, commending his leadership in enhancing the nation’s security architecture. She reiterated the need for continued collaboration, saying g that national security requires collective efforts. “National security is a social service that requires collective efforts for it to succeed,” she said.
She further said that her Office is working on a joint interactive National Seminar aimed at bringing together relevant authorities, non-governmental organizations, and security experts to share ideas on improving national security through humanitarian services.
THE HONOURBLE MINISTER OF DEFENCE, H.E. MOHAMMED BADARU ABUBAKAR CON, mni PAID COURTESY VISIT TO DEFENCE MINISTER OF SPAIN, MARGARITA ROBLES AT HER OFFICE PASEO DE LA CASTELLANA IN MADRID.
THE MINISTER WAS ACCOMPANIED BY THE CHIEF OF AIR STAFF OF NIGERIA, AIR MARSHAL HASSAN ABUBAKAR.
THE TWO MINISTERS DISCUSSED ISSUES ON BILATERAL RELATIONS BETWEEN THE TWO COUNTRIES.
In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to enhance air safety and security in Nigeria, a high-powered Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Defence, H.E Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, is currently in Spain for crucial discussions on airspace advancements.
This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr, Director (Information and Public Relations) Ministry of Defence.
The three-day visit to Indra in Spain aims to strengthen Nigeria’s air surveillance and security capabilities through cutting-edge dual-use technology. The mission, titled “Air Surveillance for the Sovereignty, Security, and Safety of the Nigerian Airspace through Dual Use Technology (Civil and Military),” seeks to enhance Nigeria’s air surveillance capabilities, ensuring the safety of its airspace and borders.
Indra, a world-leading technology and consulting company, is the technological partner for the core business operations of its customers worldwide. The delegation received a warm welcome from Indra’s CEO, Jose Vicente de los Mozos, and senior executives, including Javier Ruano, VP of ATM, Luis Permuy, VP of International Sales, Emeric Osmont, Director of West Africa, Sergio Sanchez, Director for Institutional Relationships, and General (Rtd) Francisco Almerich, Former Chief of Air Defence Command Centre, Spanish Airforce.
During the visit, the delegation toured Indra’s Headquarters, Simulator Factory, and Academy, inspecting the latest security and safety equipment, including the Indra Defence facility. The itinerary featured a welcome and introductory speech by the CEO of Indra, followed by detailed presentations on the latest Air Traffic Control System (ACC APP TWR) Demo, Dual Project Scope Definition, Voice Communications System Demo, and a demonstration of Radar and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS).
The Nigerian delegation comprised high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Abdulfatai Buhari, Chairman, Senate Committee On Aviation, Abdullahi Idris Garba, Chairman, House Committee On Aviation, and Air Marshall Hassan Bala Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff.
This strategic visit demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to advancing its air surveillance and security capabilities, aligning with global best practices. The collaboration with Indra is expected to yield significant benefits, including enhanced air safety, improved border security, and strengthened defence capabilities.
The Honourble Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle has applauded the Supreme court judgement on Local Government Autonomy, describing it as a significant milestone in promoting grassroot development, good governance, and democratic decentralization in Nigeria.
The Minister expressed his support for the Supreme Court’s decision to grant autonomy to local governments in the country. He applauded the seven-justice panel of the apex court in the judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, that ruled that the 774 local government councils in the country should independently manage their own funds.
According to Matawalle, the verdict will enable Local Governments to make decisions and take actions without needing approval from State Governments adding that local governments can now manage their finances, collect revenues, and allocate resources without state government interference. “This will boost their independence and direct accountability to the electorates. They can now focus on delivering services and development projects that will lead to better governance and accountability,” he said.
Furthermore, the Minister said that henceforth, grassroot development would be enhanced by this decision. Local governments can now prioritize projects and programs that benefit their communities thereby promoting grassroots development.” Equally the local Government should be able to solve some security challenges in their locality” .
“It will also reduce political interference and urbanization,State governments can no longer influence local government decisions and this will promote local autonomy,” he emphasized.
The Minister commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for providing the enabling environment for the historic judgement that will empower local government leaders to take charge of their territories, making them more responsible and accountable.
“This will also Improve service delivery. The local governments can now focus on delivering essential services like healthcare, education, Sanitation and infrastructural development to the people without interference from State Government,” the Minister said.
