Mr. Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, resumed the Ministry headquarters office on Monday and declared that the current reforms’ discomforts would soon pass.
He claimed that Nigerians will not blow this chance to get the best performance possible from the current crop of the government’s team.
Edun was greeted with songs of unity by the ministry’s delighted staff as he arrived at 1.58 pm.
He entered a meeting behind closed doors right away with the two permanent Secretaries and a small group of ministry senior officials.
Also, in another elaborate session which had Directors of the Ministry in attendance, the former Lagos state Commissioner of Finance underscored Nigerians’ high expectations of the current administration, an expectation he said must not be toyed with.
” I have been to this ministry before now on many occasions on special assignments . The former Minister of Finance Budget and National planning Mrs Zainab Ahmed did a good work. We will consolidate on she did and we will take it to a greater height.
” We need to deliver, we need to perform. Nigerians expectations are high. Mr. President has set the ball rolling.
“He has taken some macro , fiscal and monetary measures that will leave Nigeria for the better. It’s our duty to help him to ensure the pains are minimized. We know we have a job to do to making sure the reforms don’t leave anybody behind”, he said.
He solicited cooperation of ministry’s Directors and other personel in achieving desired result.
” We can do it, let’s work together to ensure we achieve our dream”, said the Minister.
In his introductory remark earlier, Permanent Secretary ( Special Duties) Mr. Udo Okokon Ekanem recalled some of the good antecedents of the Minister as Commissioner of Finance in Lagos state and expressed optimism he will leave such imprint at the federal level.
” Congratulations on your appointment and redeployment to the ministry of finance. Here, we have committed and dedicated staff that are willing and ready to work. We have heard a lot about you, your good work in Lagos. Staff here are receptive. We are ready to work with you”.
Permanent Secretary ( Finance) Mallam Aliyu Ahmed said the Minister was in a familiar terrain having manned similar portfolios in Lagos and outside of Nigeria where he had tremendous work exposures.
The former governor of Osun State and the minister of the newly established ministry of marine and blue economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, resumed to work at the ministry in Abuja on Monday after being sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a quick ceremony dubbed a “meet and greet meeting,” the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, welcomed the new Minister to the ministry along with his wife, Mrs. Kafayat Oyetola, and other guests. The Perm Sec also handed the new Minister the ministry’s briefs for the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry.
Addressing the ministry officials, the former governor of Osun State, said the ministry must play a very significant role in the sector which he said experts have estimated to be worth more than $1.5 trillion per year globally.
According to him: “I strongly believe in the power of collaboration, and dedication to service. The collaborative effort of a group to achieving a common goal can only be efficient and effective through team work. This is why I crave your indulgence that we must work as a team to deliver on our mandate. Let us work together to find innovative solutions to the challenges we face, ensuring that our oceans and marine are safe, reliable, and sustainable.
“Our oceans cover more than two-thirds of our planet’s surface, holding the key to sustainable economic growth, environmental preservation, and technological innovation. As we look ahead, my vision is rooted in the responsible management and utilisation of our marine resources to benefit not only our economy but also the health of our planet.
“Experts say the Blue Economy is estimated to be worth more than 1.5 trillion Dollars per year globally. Therefore, given our size as a country and considering the size of our blue economy, we should be a significant player in this sector, so as to contribute immensely to the revenue generation of our country and also provide jobs for the unemployed.
“We must come up with practicable ways of ensuring that our inland rivers, lakes, and waterways are well utilised, both in terms of cargo shipment and passenger transportation. And this can be done by embarking on a holistic dredging campaign for most of our strategically important inland waterways so as to make them navigable for the passage of goods and people.
“We equally have a duty to promote better inter-agency cooperation and coordination between the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority.
“As someone with a strong private sector background, we shall promote greater private sector inclusion while fostering greater efficiency through specialisation and the effective delineation of core duties between the units.
“We must seize this opportunity to create positive change, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come. I appreciate your dedication, and I look forward to working alongside each of you in the pursuit of a better Nigeria.
“These are my thoughts as I join you today. I believe that when we are able to do all these and more, we would have contributed our own quota towards realising Mr. President’s renewed Hope Agenda in the Marine and Blue Economy sector. I thank you all for welcoming me and listening to my address. I will now sit back and listen to your ideas and contributions” he said.
Earlier in her address, the Permanent Secretary said the Ministry had done a bit on Marine and Blue Economy, stressing that already a committee already exists on ground.
Ajani emphasized there is a lot of resources in the waters, expressing hope that the new Minister would led his team to make the ministry more impactful for the benefits of the country.
Barr. Nyesome Wike, the recently appointed Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has dispelled rumors that he will soon defect to the party in power, the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike, the lone member of an opposition party in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet, stated he was there to bring the advantages of democracy to the FCT and return it back to its previous splendor.
The minister presented a 10-point agenda at his first press conference, outlining, among other deliverables, security, city sanitation, preservation of the Abuja Master Plan, infrastructure development, restoration of green spaces, removal of shanties, plugging revenue leaks, and ground rent payments.
The minister made this known while fielding questions from newsmen on the party flags he is likely to fly as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, saying, FCT residents should be more worried about burning issues needing urgent intervention and not the party flag he will be flying.
Why should anyone be bothered about what party flag I will be flying? Ok bring PDP flag, I will fly it, bring Labour Party flag, I will fly it. The FCT has in this state and you think the people are bothered about the party flag I fly? I will fly the Nigerian flag and ensure the FCT returns to the dreams of the founding fathers.
“We will bring FCT back to where it ought to be. So many people have complained that this is not the FCT of the founding fathers. We must tackle issue of security. FCT should be where people come fot holidays.”
He, however, warned that the Administration under his leadership will not take excuses from security agencies as they will provided with the required tools to work as issue of security is germane.
The minister also disclosed that he will sanitise the city and end the raise of slums and shanties across the city.
According to him: “Abuja has turned to a slum city. Sanitation is bad with refuse everywhere. We cannot allow that. We will look at issues of waste disposals.”
“If you know you have built where it’s not suppose to build, it will go down. Our green areas and parks must come back
“Land racketeering days are over. Those who refuse to develop turning to land speculators will loos their lands.”
“All these are our short term deliverables so as to bring back people’s confidence in Government.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated 45 members of his cabinet, warning them that they owe Nigerians accountability, trust, and openness in the performance of their duties.
Tinubu identified himself as the President at this moment in time as the driver of the renewed hope agenda, and hence Nigerians will be queuing behind and expecting to collect the rewards of democracy at the Presidential Villa Abuja on Monday.
He praised the ministerial appointees, saying he personally chose them to assist him in running his administration’s operations, but that they will be constantly monitored to ensure they fulfill their responsibilities.
According to him: ” In line with the constitutional obligations the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has screened and confirmed 45 ministers who will superintend over the ministries of federal government in this administration of renewed hope.
“The men and women who have been sworn-in have been carefully selected by me for their track record of excellence and achievement in public and private sector.
“They reflected in diversity of Nigeria and bring to their new role an assortment of experience and expertise to help guide the nation’s affairs and also continue to rebuild the nation and re-engineer all our finances and defects, building blocks of Nigeria today and the future.
“Fellow Nigerians, the challenges we face today are very daunting yes, there are yet amidst this evident challenge, we have the opportunity to implement long overdue reforms that will improve the operation of government, transform our nation’s economy and ensure peace, safety and prosperity for our people.
“These are the objectives that underpin the renewed hope agenda. And these are the objectives that inspired the selection of a lot of these distinguished ladies and gentlemen ministers.
“As Ministers of the federal republic you are, not minister of a region or Minister of a particular state.
“Since my inauguration on May 29, I have taken steps to begin implementing the agenda from which I campaigned and for which I received the mandate of Nigerian people. With the inauguration of ministers today, we are about to accelerate our governing efforts to move forward, highlighting our best aspiration for Nigerians. It is all about a great team. And I believe we have them here.
“It is the highest honour to be chosen to serve as the minister in the Federal Executive Council of our beloved Republic. With such high honour comes tremendous responsibility. In this moment of abundant promise and fail in equal measure.
“All of you who have been sworn in I’ve been called to distinguish yourselves. It is me who knows you. I delegate this authority but the greatest number of Nigerians are highly expecting delivery and accountability and transparency.
“I expect that you will serve with integrity, dignity and deliver. I will hold you to that standard we all promised Nigerians.
“Your assignment begins immediately. As your country honours you today, by this call to service you must each work to make yourself worthy in the eyes of God and all our nation’s people.
“Your highest obligation is to retire public faith in government so that our people can once again believe that the right hands in government can show. I believe in you that the government can be a positive force for transformation and a vehicle for collective progress of this country.
“I congratulate you and welcome you to the administration of renewed hope.
“I wish you success in this new assignment. We are on this boat even if it is a vehicle and I am the driver the entire Nigerians are behind sitting and watching as you and I navigate this vehicle”.
Speaking further, the President said, “We must hold each other responsible. We have to do the job to meet the expectations of all Nigerians.
“As I said earlier on, you are not a minister of a particular state, colonies, region or ethnic nationality, you are a Minister of Federal Republic of Nigeria. God be with you and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Thank you very much”.
Social activist and Public Affairs commentator, Kazeem Tanimu, has reacted to accusations of corruption against Gov.Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State by Jackson Ude, US-based investigative journalist and former A Director of Strategy and Communications, under President Goodluck Jonathan.
In a recent series of tweets on his official twitter page; @jacksonpbn, Ude, who publishes Pointblank News, alleged that the governor was looting the state treasuring under his watch.
The tweet reads: “BALA MOHAMMED AND THE LOOTING OF BAUCHI STATE Pt1
“Governor BALa Mohammed of Bauchi state is using his colleague Governor to loot his state resources. On 04 March 2019, the “BAUCHI STATE UNIVERSITY GADAU- TETFUND INTERVENTION ACCOUNT” account with account number “0122832042” experienced a debit of N89,437,144.73, in favour of SUPERIOR CONTRACTORS LIMITED.
“The company is owned by the Governor of Gombe State, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, and his sons Misbahuddin Inuwa Yahaya and Raddiyya Inuwa Yahaya.
Ude continues “IN FOUR TRANSACTIONS, GOV BALA MOHAMMED LOOTED N632.5MILLION FROM BAUCHI TREASURY.
“Findings have revealed that On 26th November 2020, the Bauchi State Consolidated Revenue Fund Account (CRF-TSA) 0124662 witnessed an outflow of N126,5m in favour of Adda Nigeria Limited.
“The following day (April 27, 2020), the Bauchi State Government Federation Account Allocation Committee Account 0125043 paid the sum of N126.5m in favour of the same company.Adda Nigeria Limited also had payment of N126.5m paid into it from the Bauchi State’s FAAC account on May 20, 2020.
“Again, on May 30 and July 27, 2020, the sum of N126.5m each was paid to Adda Nigeria Limited by the Bauchi State Government FAAC Account 01146385 and the Bauchi State Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF-TSA) respectively.
“A quick search by our correspondent revealed that the quartet of Bala Mohammed, Abdullahi Bawa, Salihu Bawa Z.A and Salihu Bawa H.A are Directors of Adda Nigeria Limited.”
The tweet has continued to generate reactions among Nigerians, especially among Civil Society Groups and political watchers. With many saying the Governor need to convincingly debunk the allegations by Ude.
However, Tanimu, a youth mobilizer and advocate of good governance across Africa, told newsmen that although Ude’s claim should not be flayed at the surface as he has known him to be a “ a sound investigative Journalist.”
Tanimu however said that although he testify of the governor’s financial impropriety , he only know him to be “ politically on stable.”
Tanimu said: “Loyalty means nothing to Gov Bala of Bauchi State, he is among those working against the tribunal case because of his selfish intentions to run for president with Nyesom Wike deputizing him in 2027.
“The likes of Rt. Hon Dogara knows Bala Mohammed so well; he is aware of his deviousness. Governor Bala has two-faced lifestyle, that lacks common values and morals.
“You can’t trade or buy loyalty, you can only earn it. It’s a priceless piece that can hardly be afforded. Gov Bala is a mole ravaging the PDP. Personally i regret ever working with him and his frontier, Eric Anyamene.
“We have paid our dues in helping him count his political steps too. In 2019 we organised a grand fundraising dinner for him which he failed to appreciate; and we are still on standby watching him make a fool of himself.”
The Federal Capital Territory Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) has reaffirmed that the ongoing harmonisation drive in the FCT is a marathon not a sprint, as such, all concerns raised by stakeholders will be considered and addressed accordingly.
The Executive Chairman of FCT-IRS, Mr. Haruna Abdullahi gave the clarification during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on revenue harmonisation with Kuje Area Council in Abuja, saying, the project takes shape, stakeholders are encouraged to ask questions and the Service is committed to providing answers, addressing concerns and fostering greater understanding.
According to him, the signed MoU between FCT-IRS and Kuje Area Council will provide stakeholders with a clear framework outlining their respective roles and shared responsibilities in this harmonisation initiative.
He said It would also serve as both a template and a beacon of hope, demonstrating the possibilities when organizations collaborate. Mr. Abdullahi emphasized that all concerns raised were valid, and the FCT-IRS would actively engage with major stakeholders to provide clarity based on legal provisions.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Mr. Abdullahi expressed his confidence in overcoming them with determination, integrity, and a commitment to openness.
He assured the residents of the city that each and every contributed kobo would be properly accounted for and used judiciously and reiterated the commitment of the Service in leveraging technology, strategic partnerships, and adopting international best practices tol ensuring that the FCT-IRS maintains a high standard in its processes.
“This is not just about Kuje, it is a template and beckon of hope on what can be achieved when organisations come together. And I will also have to say here that all concerns are valid and that is why we are here. We’ll continue to engage major stakeholders and continue to clarify issues that are a bit concerning and clarify according to the law and every stakeholder has a reason to ask questions.
“This is new. I always say harmonisation is a marathon, so there will be challenges along the way but with determination and integrity that we have shown around the process there is honesty. So any body that has concerns, the channels for clarifying these concerns are always opened and the service, does not know it all so we are also open to guidance and clarification as well.
“As we embark on this harmonisation journey I want to assure all residents of the city that every contributed kobo will be accounted for and used judiciously.
“We’re leveraging technology, partnerships and international best practices and good practices to ensure that our processes remain top notch” he stated.
The FCT-IRS commended the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Mr Adesola Olusade for his dedication and support throughout this journey adding that his unwavering commitment has been a source of hope and inspiration
Abdullahi also lauded the Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council, Mr. Abdullahi Sabo, for his determination and steadfastness in supporting the Harmonisation process.
In his remarks, Mr. Sabo, affirmed Kuje Area Council’s confidence in the capacity of the FCT-IRS to handle revenue collection on their behalf.
He emphasised that the area council had tasked the FCT-IRS with improving and standardizing their existing data , therefore all levy and revenue collections in Kuje area council would transit to an automated, cashless system.
The area council chairman expressed his commitment to the success of this project and indicated that other area councils would soon join in signing the MoU with the FCT-IRS to enhance and strengthen the overall harmonisation drive.
Mr. Adesola Olusade, the FCTA Permanent Secretary, who witnessed the signing of the MoU, emphasised that this journey towards harmonisation and ease of doing business began years ago, in 2012.
He acknowledged the challenges faced due to a lack of mutual trust and insufficient teamwork for implementation stating that with the recent developments, he was satisfied and fulfilled.
According to him, this harmonisation initiative will address issues related to multiple taxation and foster a more business-friendly environment in the city.
‘Today, I am fulfilled. The journey towards harmonisation and ease of doing business started as way back as 2012. Efforts to conclude it had been very challenging because of lack of mutual trust and inadequate team work for the implementation.
“In 2012, we didn’t have FCT-IRS and the Service came to be as a creation of the law in 2015 and had to grable with tilting problems before it became eventually operational in 2018.
“Therefore, harmonizing revenue collection is not amounting to concession, the task before FCT-IRS is to collect the revenue on behalf of other revenue agencies and area councils and remit it to them in accountable and transparent manner” he explained.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, televangelist and president of Loveworld Incorporated,Pastor Chris Oyakhilome and Matthew Hassan Kukah, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, have been named among the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.”
They were unveiled by the project’s organizers at a ‘Unveiling News Conference’ of the’100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’ on Friday in Abuja.
Other Nigerians on the list are Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Cardinal John Onayekan, Pastor Jerry Ezeh, creator of Streams of Joy International, former Nigerian Vice President, Prof YemiOsibanjo, Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, and Akinwumi Adeshina.President of the African Development Bank.
Celebrities who made the list include Nollywood actresses Rita Dominic and Mercy Aigbe, Davido, Rema, Ay Makun, Isreal Adesanya, Cubana Chief Priest,Linda Ikeji,Hilda Bassey, Nigerian Chief and Guinesss World Record Holder , Nigerian International Football star, Victor Osimeh and Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation International Magazine.
Amb. Kinsley Amafibe, Project Director Africa for the ‘100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa’, congratulated recipients of the honour across the continent for making the highly coveted ‘peace list’.
According to him, the peace icons are Africans drawn from different backgrounds, who have used their talents, positions and resources to build and promote peace across the continent.
He said those who made the list were carefully selected for their consistent commitment to humanitarian initiatives , positive influence on communities and youth empowerment, among other criteria.
“It is with immense excitement that we announce the revelation of the esteemed list titled “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa.”
“This initiative stands as a testament to our commitment to acknowledging and applauding the remarkable individuals and collectives that have played key roles in nurturing peace, harmony, and positive change the African continent.
“This initiative celebrates the dedication of those who have labored continuously to reduce conflicts, advance social bond, and establish connections amidst diverse communities.
“By sharing their narratives, our intention is to amplify the ripples of their endeavors, produce a collective resolve to foster a more calm and prosperous Africa.
“Within this illustrious roster of 100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa, we encounter a rich shade of leaders, economist, financial expert, sports personalities, religious leaders, industrialist, entertainment entrepreneurs and traditional rulers.
“They have transcended boundaries and overcome challenges to leave inerasable legacies, with each narrative as a tribute to perseverance and determination, enclosed in the cherished values of Africa- unity, harmony, and progress.
“The profiles and accomplishments of these icons are showcased on our official website, www.100mostnotable.org, a digital monument honoring their contributions across Africa and beyond,” he said.
Other recipients of the recognition across the continent include Patrick Lumumba, Human Right Activist, Rwanda President, Paul Kagame, Kenyan President William Ruto Cyril Ramaphosa, South African President and Joyce Hilda- Band ,First Female President in Malawi.
Ex- Cameroonian football star Samuel Eto’oFils, veteran Ghanaian actor John Dumelo, American-born Senegalese singer, Akon , the first lady of Mamibia, Monica Geingos are also listed among the peace icons.
According to the Project Director, the “100 Most Notable Peace Icons in Africa” initiative stands as a celebration of hope, unity, and advancement for the continent.
He therefore urged Africans to unite in constructing a future where peace and prosperity flourish through education, empowerment, and sustainable development.
“The unveiling of this plaque transcends mere symbolism but serves as a call to action, an exhortation to perpetuate the values embody by African Icons.
“This plaque would serve as a perpetual reminder to both present and future generations that peace entails more than the absence of conflict; it encompasses the proactive cultivation of understanding, cooperation, and shared prosperity.
The legacy of these African Icons shall persist as a wellspring of inspiration for individuals, nations, and the entirety of the African continent,
He added that “Beyond commemorating these Peace Icons, we proudly announce our commitment to elevating education across the continent. In the pursuit of sustaining peace and development, we are endowing scholarships to 20,000 students hailing from various corners of Africa.
“This scholarship program is designed to empower and nurture the forthcoming generation of African leaders, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to propel the growth and stability of their respective nations”, he said.
The Managing Director/CEO of Abuja Film Village (AFV), Dr Francisca Ibezim, has called on stakeholders in the education sector and the creative industry to support the maiden edition of the Youth Educational Film Festival (YEFF) scheduled to hold in the Federal Capital Territory(FCT) .
Dr Ibezim, who made the call at Stakeholders Meeting’ held at the AFV on Tuesday in Abuja, said the YEFF is a film fiesta to showcase educational films in driving value re-orientation and empowerment of young Nigerians.
According to her,the YEFF,slated to hold in September 2023, is part of flagship events conceived by the management of the AFV to drive its Films in Education Campaign .
She said the festival is been organised by the AFV in collaboration the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and an NGO “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative”.
She explained that the pre-event stakeholders meeting was to seek the inputs, ideas and suggestions of relevant stakeholders towards ensuring maximum participation of youths and to ensure that relevant agencies of the Federal Government and that of the FCT promote and support the festival youth film fiesta.
The stakeholders meeting had in attendance representatives of relevant MDAs, including the Federal Ministry of Education, National Film and Video Censors Board, Nigerian Film Corporation and the National Library.
Others include the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, FCT Universal Basic Education Board and the FCT Secondary Education Board, among others.
The leaders and representatives of the of the AGN, “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative” and notable industry actors and filmmakers were also at the event.
Dr Ibezim said in her address: “The Youth Educational Film Festival is not merely an event, it is the celebration of the extraordinary story that emerged when the vibrant imagination of our youth collide with the power of cinematic story telling.
“The festival is intended to provide innovative platform for young filmmakers to showcase their talents , share their perspectives and inspire change through the act of film.
“I also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed stakeholders , the Actors Guild of Nigeria and the “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative”, your support and engagement are vital tools in nurturing the talents of this young filmmakers.
“By our collaboration in this festival, you are endorsing their efforts and also contributing to the future of the industry and the society,”she said.
She stressed that the YEFF was geared towards providing a platform for young filmmakers and passionate Nigerian youths to showcase their talents, foster creativity, promote education and stimulate critical thinking among them.
She added that “we had earlier had an audition tagged “Born Talent Audition”, where budding talents where discovered, who will be showcased at the educational film festival.”
“Some issues the films will address include illegal migration, drug abuse, domestic violence, child and sexual abuse and to educate young Nigerians on the need to be a good citizen towards building a better nation for all.”
She therefore called on government at all levels to support the initiative and ensure that their youths participate in it.
Dr Ibezim further explained the Abuja film village was a Public Private Partnership initiative of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) with the vision of making the FCT and Nigeria at large the centres for film and entertainment excellence.
The stakeholders drawn from both the public and private sectors commended the Abuja Film Village and its partners for conceiving the YEFF as a platform for moral re-orientation for young Nigerians.
They therefore expressed their willingness to be a part of the youth film fiesta, but urged the organisers to hold the event when students are back to school from holidays in September to ensure full participation of students.
Emeka Rollas (MON), the national president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), has urged participants in the creative business and the educational field to support the inaugural Youth Educational Film Festival (YEFF), which is set to take place in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The YEFF is a film festival to showcase educational films in promoting value re-orientation and empowerment of young Nigerians, according to the AGN helmsman who made the announcement during Stakeholders Meeting held at the Abuja Film Village on Tuesday in Abuja.
He claimed the purpose of the conference was to get the advice, thoughts, and recommendations of important parties in order to ensure that youth engagement would be maximized and that relevant agencies of the Federal Government and that of the FCT promote and rally support for the festival towards making it an annual youth event.
He said the educational film fiesta is scheduled to hold in September 2023, is organised by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in collaboration with the Abuja Film Village (AFV) and the group “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative”.
He therefore called on government at all levels to support the initiative and ensure that their youths participate in it.
“The objective of the Youth Educational Film Festival is to provide a channel for educators and filmmakers in Nigeria to share ideas and methods towards promoting educational contents.
“ Therefore, the essence of having the youth educational film festival is to provide a platform for young filmmakers to showcase their talents, foster creativity, promote education and stimulate critical thinking among youth.
“We strongly believe that Nollywood is a viable tool for transformation and will help reduce some vices which has been introduce into our society.
“We intend to showcase films that will educate and inform our teeming youths through screenings, workshops, discussions and cultural activities.
“Our target group for the festival are children, adolescents, youths, as well as teachers in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions and their families,” he said.
The stakeholders meeting had in attendance representatives of relevant MDAs, including the Federal Ministry of Education, National Film and Video Censors Board, Nigerian Film Corporation and the National Library.
Others include the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, FCT Universal Basic Education Board and the FCT Secondary Education Board, among others.
The stakeholders drawn from both the public and private sectors lauded the Actors Guild and its partners for conceiving the YEFF as a platform for moral re-orientation for young Nigerians.
They therefore expressed their willingness to be a part of the youth film fiesta, but urged the organisers to hold the event when students are back to school from holidays in September to ensure full participation of students.
In his goodwill remark, Alhaji Adedayo Thomas, Executive Director/CEO of the National Film and Video Censors Board(NFVCB), regulators of the nation’s film industry, described the YEFF as “unprecedented”.
“We will do everything within our reach to support this vision and I must commend the President of the AGN and his team,” he said.
In her speech, Mrs Noni Okocha, Chief Executive Officer of “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative” explained that films that would be produced from the project would focus on addressing disturbing national issues.
According to her, some issues the films will address include illegal migration, drug abuse, domestic violence, child and sexual abuse, among others.
Okocha explained that the group had earlier had an audition tagged “Born Talent Audition”, where budding talents where discovered, who will be showcased at the educational film festival.
Also, Dr Francisca Ibezim, Managing Director/CEO of Abuja Film Village, said the YEFF was part of initiatives lined up to drive the Films in Education Campaign of the organisation, and therefore lauded the stakeholders for identifying with the YEFF project,
“The Youth Educational Film Festival is not merely an event, it is the celebration of the extraordinary story that emerged when the vibrant imagination of our youth collide with the power of cinematic story telling.
“The festival is intended to provide innovative platform for young filmmakers to showcase their talents , share their perspectives and inspire change through the act of film.
“ I also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed stakeholders , the Actors Guild of Nigeria and the “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative”, your support and engagement are vital tools in nurturing the talents of this young filmmakers.
“By our collaboration in this festival, you are endorsing their efforts and also contributing to the future of the industry and the society,”she said.
Other stakeholders present at the event include Nollywood actors and filmmakers.
The Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has urged youths in the Niger Delta region to “rise above the entitlement mentality”, to set the stage for success.
Interim Administrator of the PAP, Major General Ndiomu (rtd), gave the charge while speaking on Saturday in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, at the 3rd Niger Delta MSME Summit.
“If you rise above entitlement mentality, the sky will be too small to be your starting point. Everybody stands a chance,” he said, adding that the youths must begin to think out of the box and come up with innovative ideas.
Ndiomu said the war between Russia and Ukraine has exposed the harsh realities surrounding grains globally.
“There is scarcity of grains, starch globally now, and we have cassava plantations all over the region,” he said.
He noted that very soon, brewery companies in Nigeria will start looking for starch. “This global shift affects everybody”.
The interim Administrator who was represented by Musa Wilfred, PAP’s Head of Reintegration, thus advised the youths to heighten awareness, and take advantage of the current situation.
He reiterated that the “mandate” of PAP remains “to manage the destiny of thousands of youths and we have decided to begin to reason outside the box”.
“We must understand the times and take advantage properly. We must map out opportunities. We must be in a place where we are able to adequately predict the future. We must innovate, we must remind our delegates that there is virtue in adversity, resilience. Good things don’t come cheap.
“There is a notion about the region out there, and we must all agree jointly to alter that narrative. “As young business owners, you must understand that beyond innovation, collaboration, networking, access to funds, loans and grants, lobbying, you have a role to play. You must embrace discipline, mentoring. You must understand that good things don’t come easy. You must understand that for every height you want to attain, there is a price to pay. Young leaders must be ready and willing to pay the price,” Ndiomu said.
While advising the youths to keep a calm head, he reminded them that skill without character is useless. “You must be worthy in skill and character”.
