The Abuja Enterprise Agency (AEA) and FCT College of Education, Zuba, have formalized a partnership agreement to enhance entrepreneurship development and address youth unemployment in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Mr. Chudi Ugwuada-Ezirigwe, the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of AEA, emphasized the importance of sustaining this collaboration to broaden entrepreneurship knowledge among staff, students, and FCT residents. He highlighted the pivotal role entrepreneurship plays in mitigating societal challenges such as internet fraud and kidnapping, prevalent among youths.
Mr. Ezirigwe expressed AEA’s satisfaction in witnessing the success stories of businesses thriving in a challenging business environment. He commended the foresight of the College’s leadership in aligning its vision with modern realities and encouraged them to remain steadfast in the entrepreneurship journey.
The Provost of FCT College of Education, Zuba, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Grace Tyoden, underscored the significance of the collaboration in adding value to the lives of students and staff, positioning them for economic independence. The Director affirmed the College’s commitment to sustaining this mutually beneficial partnership and expressed satisfaction with the present leadership of Abuja Enterprise Agency.
In alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, the Coordinating Minister of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ali Pate, officially launched the Grant Cycle 7 (GC7) for the period 2024-2026. The allocated resources of USD 933 million aim to mitigate the impact of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria in Nigeria.
During the launch, Dr. Pate emphasized President Tinubu’s directive for collaborative efforts between the Federal Government, state governments, and development partners to enhance health outcomes for Nigerians. The Global Fund grant was handed over to recipients, including the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, National AIDS and STDs Control Programme, National Tuberculosis, Leprosy & Buruli Ulcer Control Programme, Institute for Human Virology Nigeria, National Malaria Elimination Programme, Catholic Relief Services, and others.
To achieve the 95-95-95 targets by 2025 for HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, the Federal Government is dedicated to improving health through governance, transparency, primary healthcare, maternal and child health, infrastructure, and health security. Dr. Pate urged the Global Fund and principal recipients to support local manufacturers and foster trust among key players.
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, expressed how the funds would strengthen the health system for pandemic preparedness, aligning with President Tinubu’s agenda to provide quality health services without financial hardship. He highlighted the proposed 2024 budget’s unprecedented increase in the allocation to health and social sectors, demonstrating political will.
Hon. Amobi Ogah, Chairman of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, assured rigorous oversight to ensure accountability for every allocated fund. Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom highlighted the increased grants in Cycle 7 to address critical service coverage gaps among pregnant women, children, key populations, and adolescents, aiming to harness Nigeria’s human capital for improved access to quality health services.
…….As Former 2023 Chairman of Oborevwori’s 88-Man Transition Committee, Prays For God’s Wisdom For Oborevwori To Govern Delta State Towards Sustainable Development
……….UNIBEN’s Professor Emeritus, Professor of Biochemistry Hails Judiciary On Excellent Judgement, Thanked Deltans On Support For Governor Oborevwori
By Victor Bieni, Asaba
Former Vice Chancellor, University of Benin, Prof. Emmanuel Nwanze, has congratulated the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori on his well deserved victory as Supreme Court on Friday, January 19, 2024 upheld the Judgement of the appeal court, ruled in favour of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the winner of March 2023 Guber election in Delta State and affirmed him as Delta State Governor.
The Former 2023 Chairman of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s 88-Man Transition Committee in a press statement which was made known to some group of Journalists today being on Thursday, January 25, 2024 in Asaba Delta State capital, has commended the Supreme court Judges on excellent Judgement that affirmed the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Chief Sheriff Oborevwori as the winner of March 2023 Guber election in Delta State.
You could recall that E. A. C. Nwanze holds B.Sc, M.Sc, Ph.D, DIS. OON.[Officer of the Order of the Niger]. He is Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry and former VC of Uniben and currently the Pro-chancellor of University of Delta, Agbor. Prof has Congratulated the Governor on his legal victory on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Staff & entire students of the University of Delta, Agbor, Delta State. He has held sway as a member of Delta State Universities Planning Committee that gave birth to the three new Universities in Delta State during former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa’s regime.
The Statement by the world acclaimed, erudite, seasoned and Emeritus Professor of Biochemistry reads in parts: “On Friday, 19th Day of January, 2024, in line with the Judgement of Appeal Court, the Supreme Court has affirmed Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori as the Executive Governor of Delta State by a five-man panel of Supreme Court Judges. Your Excellency Sir, What a great news to hear of your recent Supreme Court Victory which affirmed you as the duly elected Governor of Delta State, I use this medium to congratulate you on your well deserved Supreme Court Victory”.
“I Commend the excellent Judgement as done by the Nigerian Judiciary, Supreme Court Judges. I thank all Deltans, entire PDP family for their immense support to you and your administration as hinged on M.O.R.E Agenda Policy. In fact, you have shown capacity and strength, wisdom and knowledge as you have continuously, strategically and tactfully work towards the implementation of the Committee’s full reports as recommended by the 88-Man Translation Committee which I chaired as the Chairman.”
“Your Excellency Sir, you have also shown deep knowledge and understanding in the implementation of your M.O.R.E agenda policy. I mean the lists of things to be done by your administration in continuity of the good legacies my brother and friend, the immediate past Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. You have already started with the spirit of excellence in the implementation of Meaningful Development in Delta State, Opportunities For All Deltans, Realistic Reforms in all economic sectors, Enhanced Peace & Security in the entire State which is the full meanings and acronyms of your M.O.R.E agenda policy to all Deltans”.
“Once again, I must commend the Supreme Court Judges for upholding Justice in the legal sector. And most importantly, I must commend your courage and tenacity. Also, I thank the Immediate past Governor Ifeanyi Okowa for standing by your side at all times, all Deltans, entire PDP family, all critical stakeholders for their support, firm believe, confidence in your administration M.O.R.E, I wish you a successful tenure in office as Executive Governof of Delta State”.
“I pray to God to guide you will more of his wisdom, knowledge and understanding promote good governance. I also pray the good Lord to grant you the grace that brings more unmerited, undeserved favour to you and your entire family; give you a heart of forgiveness, mercy, grace, tender heart, peace of mind to promote good governance, take Delta State to enviable height. We pray the good Lord guide your paths and help you to make right decisions that will give every Deltan the needed democratic dividends all through your regime as Governor of Delta State”.
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has inaugurated the Project Implementation Committee for the provision and installation of security surveillance system for the Abuja-Kaduna Highways (Highways and Railways).
The Minister said that the provision of the security solutions along the Abuja-Kaduna highways would checkmate the frequent security challenges along the route. This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike mnipr Director (information ,Press & PR) for Ministry of Defence.
The minister disclosed this during the inauguration of the Eight-man Committee on project implementation for the provision and installation of a security surveillance system for the Abuja- Kaduna highways and railways at Ship House, Abuja.
The eight-man committee which has its members drawn from the Ministry, the Services and other security Agencies is headed by the Director Joint Services Department of Ministry of Defence.
Badaru said that the security challenges along the route Abuja-Kaduna highways necessitated inauguration of the committee by the ministry and the need to checkmate it.
The Minister expressed confidence in the Committee’s ability to deliver tangible results, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to addressing security concerns on major transportation routes around the country.
While inaugurating the members of the committee, he pointed out the terms of reference which included, ensuring the successful installation of the security surveillance system of both highways and railways along Abuja-Kaduna highways within eighteen months, ensuring the equipment for the installation of the security surveillance system meets the technical specification as well as suggest any other measure necessary for the successful implementation of the system.
Furthermore, the Minister said that the inauguration of the Committee signified a remarkable milestone in ensuring safety along the Abuja-Kaduna Highway and Railways.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has directed the Chairmen of the six Area Councils in the territory to enhance the local vigilance teams by meeting their needs adequately.
Addressing stakeholders and residents at a security town hall meeting in Kwali Area Council, Wike assured swift deployment of additional security vehicles, and he urged the councils to provide more motorcycles to support the vigilance teams.
Wike emphasized the government’s commitment to improving security, stating, “I can assure you that in a matter of days you will be hearing positive stories. We are ready to support our security agencies, whatever they need to ensure that our people can sleep with their two eyes closed.”
He acknowledged the importance of information from residents and highlighted the role of vigilance teams in gathering timely information to aid security agencies.
Addressing concerns about bad roads contributing to kidnapping incidents, the Minister urged the council chairman to recommend additional roads for reconstruction.
He promised that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration would not abandon the people of FCT and emphasized collaboration with traditional rulers and the community to identify infrastructure needs.
Wike assured the community that the government would address their concerns, stating, “We won’t abandon any project. If we don’t have the money, we won’t embark on any project.” The collaborative efforts between the FCT Administration, local councils, and residents aim to enhance security and infrastructure development in the region.
The Kwali Area Council Chairman, Danladi Chiya, outlined challenges, including security issues and the need for a police division in Gwako and a military base in another part of the council. He sought the Minister’s intervention for road repairs, increased military presence, additional police stations, and support for vigilance teams.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is set to implement a recertification process for all taxis, including ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, as part of comprehensive measures to curb the rising incidents of taxi robberies, commonly known as ‘one chance.’
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, announced this initiative during a media interface in Abuja.
Acknowledging the persistent challenge of criminals posing as taxi operators to carry out abductions, robberies, and sometimes violence, Wike emphasized the need for proactive measures.
He outlined the plan to disallow vehicles without FCT colors, signifying registration and approval by the FCTA, from operating commercially. This measure aims to enhance passenger safety and reduce the risk of boarding unregistered vehicles.
The Minister clarified that the recertification process would extend to ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt. He highlighted the importance of certifying and profiling drivers to enhance security and ensure adherence to regulations in the city. Wike stated, “It tells you who the drivers are. We need to certify them. We need to profile them using the security agencies.”
Expressing surprise at the absence of a single loading terminal in the world-class capital city of Abuja, Wike revealed plans to establish at least three terminals in the current fiscal year. These terminals will provide a centralized and regulated space for taxis and buses, allowing for better control and monitoring of vehicles and drivers.
Wike emphasized that the introduction of terminals and the recertification process would contribute to reducing crime significantly, although complete elimination may not be possible. He stated, “I am not saying that with the provision of all these that you won’t have one or two crimes. No, it is not possible to eliminate crimes completely, but you can reduce it drastically.”
The FCTA’s proactive approach seeks to enhance public safety, restore confidence in taxi services, and create a more secure transportation environment in Abuja.
President Bola Tinubu has given approval for the emergency procurement of digital tracking tools to strengthen security efforts in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), according to the Minister of FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike. The disclosure was made during a media interface on Monday, where Minister Wike highlighted the significance of the newly approved measures in combating kidnappings.
While refraining from divulging intricate details, Wike emphasized the cooperation received from recently arrested informants, stating that their actionable intelligence has contributed to successful operations leading to the apprehension of kidnappers, as demonstrated by recent Police parades.
Acknowledging past challenges due to inadequate equipment, Wike expressed optimism that the emergency procurement would mark a turning point. He stressed the importance of providing security agencies with essential tools and equipment, including vehicles and advanced tracking devices.
Wike remarked, “Security is not just about these equipment. You also have to motivate the personnel.” He highlighted the significance of both equipment and personnel motivation in ensuring an effective response to security threats.
The Minister assured the public that security efforts are underway and that the emergency procurement approval by President Tinubu will address deficiencies in equipment. He emphasized the need for prompt responses, stating, “If you have these equipment, you don’t need to seek approval of your headquarters to begin to track the criminals.”
In addition to the procurement measures, Wike announced the intention to establish a Joint Task Force with a full command and control structure in the FCT to enhance responses to security emergencies. While acknowledging associated costs and time, he stressed the importance of covering the identified gaps in the security framework.
Addressing concerns about informants, Wike stated, “The efforts of our security agencies have yielded the arrests of informants who have told us what they were planning.” He reassured the public that comprehensive measures are being taken to ensure the protection of lives and property, urging citizens not to panic.
The emergency procurement approval is a significant step towards bolstering security measures and ensuring the safety of residents in the Federal Capital Territory. The government is committed to addressing existing challenges and reinforcing the security apparatus in the region.
Abuja, January 31, 2024 – The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued an alert regarding the resurgence of Lassa Fever, confirming two cases in Abuja. Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Secretary of the Health and Environmental Services Secretariat, announced the information on Monday, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures.
The alert was prompted by information from a clinician at Bwari General Hospital, leading to immediate investigations by the FCTA’s Public Health Department. The confirmed cases involve two children, aged 14 months and 13 years, who had contact with their mother, previously diagnosed with Lassa Fever in Bauchi.
According to Dr. Fasawe, the father brought the children back to Abuja after the mother’s demise, and subsequent testing revealed that the 14-month-old tested positive for Lassa Fever, while the 13-year-old tested negative. Another positive case was reported at the Abuja University Teaching Hospital, where the patient is currently receiving care.
The Secretary assured the public that there have been no fatalities recorded thus far. She emphasized the importance of taking precautions, such as avoiding the exposure of food to rats, and urged residents to promptly report any unusual symptoms to the nearest health centers.
Dr. Fasawe provided details of the investigation, stating, “Samples were collected and sent to the National Reference Lab for confirmation.” She also highlighted the timeline of events, explaining that the father traveled to Bauchi on January 9, 2024, to bring back the children, who had accompanied their mother. The family returned to the FCT on January 12, 2024, and the Public Health Department monitored the children for symptoms, with test results indicating a positive case for the 14-month-old and a negative result for the 13-year-old.
The FCTA encourages the public to remain vigilant, adopt preventive measures, and seek medical attention promptly if symptoms suggestive of Lassa Fever arise. Regular reporting of such symptoms to health authorities contributes to effective surveillance and response efforts in controlling the spread of the disease.
Rotary International has pledged a significant commitment of US$ 14,037,787 to support Nigeria in its relentless efforts to eradicate polioviruses, particularly the Circulating Variant Poliovirus (cVPV2).
The World Health Organization (WHO) welcomes this substantial funding that will span one year, focusing on providing technical assistance to enhance polio surveillance and combat the persistent challenge of cVPV2 in the country.
Despite Nigeria achieving the esteemed certification of being wild polio-free in August 2020, the emergence of cVPV2 poses an ongoing threat. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, emphasizes the broader impact of supporting surveillance, stating, “You strengthen the ability of this country to anticipate, investigate, and respond to other infectious diseases that could threaten our national and global security.”
Rotary International has been a steadfast partner in Nigeria’s pursuit of eradicating polio, ensuring comprehensive immunization for all eligible children. The recent grant allocations, approved by Rotary Foundation Trustees, demonstrate the organization’s commitment to the cause. Three grants, totaling US$ 14,037,787, will specifically aid polio eradication activities and surveillance in Nigeria.
The WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, acknowledges Rotary International as a core partner and founding leader for the Global Polio Eradication Programme (GPEI) globally. Rotary’s long-standing commitment, including more than US$ 500 million in grants for Nigeria over the past decade, reflects its dedication to the highest programmatic priority of eradicating polio.
Dr. Mulombo outlines that despite sustained efforts, poliovirus surveillance data reveals the continued circulation of the virus in some states of the North-West zone. The funds from Rotary International will be strategically deployed by WHO, in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and State Governments, to intensify efforts in high-risk areas.
The initiative by Rotary International in 1985 led to the creation of the GPEI, and the organization’s ongoing contributions, exceeding US$ 1.5 billion globally, highlight its unwavering commitment to the cause. WHO, as an implementing partner, will utilize these resources to eradicate polio, reinforce surveillance activities, and strengthen health systems to effectively respond to emerging health threats.
This collaborative effort reaffirms the determination to maintain Nigeria’s “Zero Wild Polio” status and eliminate the persistent threat of cVPV2 by the end of the year, as recommended by the 40th Executive Review Committee.
In a devastating turn of events, six Guinean football enthusiasts lost their lives while celebrating Guinea’s first victory at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. The incident occurred during exuberant street celebrations in Conakry, the capital of Guinea, following their 1-0 win over The Gambia on Friday night.
The Guinean Football Federation, Feguifoot, confirmed the tragic occurrence to the BBC on Monday. Fans took to the streets in jubilation, driving cars and riding motorcycles to revel in their team’s success.
Feguifoot’s media manager, Amadou Makadji, expressed concern over the incident, urging caution in celebrations. He emphasized the passion for football in Guinea but stressed the importance of ensuring that festivities do not turn fatal. Makadji stated, “We do not want deaths to mourn, so we call on everyone to celebrate but to take care of themselves so that nothing happens to them.”
Guinea secured the victory with a goal by Aguibou Camara, placing them second in Group C with four points. The tragic events, however, cast a shadow over the celebratory atmosphere, prompting appeals for measured celebrations from both Feguifoot and former Guinean football star Pascal Feindouno.
Pascal Feindouno, who played a significant role in Guinea’s past successes at AFCON, pleaded with fans to exercise restraint. “Stay calm – thank you,” urged Feindouno, emphasizing the need to support the country without risking harm.
As Guinea continues its AFCON journey, sitting second in their group, the nation grapples with the somber aftermath of celebrations turned tragic. The AFCON tournament, commenced on January 13, 2024, is scheduled to conclude with the final in Abidjan on February 11.
