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Badaru Receives NAWOJ Officials As they Commend Government Efforts On Security

By
Victor Obabunmi
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The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E Mohammad Badaru Abubakar CON, has reassured the National Association of Women Journalist (NAWOJ) of continuous efforts of Government to ensure that Nigeria remain a peaceful sovereign state where business and daily life can strive without fear.

This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Mnipr
Director Information and Public Relations of the Ministry.

The Minister made this statement when he received the Executive Members of the Association who paid him a courtesy call in his office at Ship House , Abuja .The delegation was led by the Chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim.

The Minister commended their reportage on security issues geared towards bringing a lasting peace to the country.

He expressed his gratitude to NAWOJ for their tireless efforts in reporting and covering security issues in Nigeria. He acknowledged the crucial role of women journalists in promoting national security, emphasising that security requires a collective approach from all segments of the society like professional bodies, faith based organisations and patriotic citizens must all put hands on deck to fight insecurity.

Badaru noted that the insurgency in the northeast has drastically decreased, allowing for peaceful celebration of Sallah in the northeast, especially Borno State. He attributed this success to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to providing full security in the region and across Nigeria.

The Minister pledged to partner with NAWOJ, describing the Association as a veritable instrument for sensitising women on how to deradicalise their children and urged them to contribute their quota to national peace and security sustainability .

The NAWOJ chairperson, Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim commended the appointment of Badaru as minister of defence and appreciated the government efforts in fighting insecurity.

According to her, insurgents have been significantly weakened and their atrocities have decreased substantially.

In addition she said , the success of the last Sallah celebration which was observed in Biu and other parts of the northeast, marks a great improvement from previous years. For her, celebrating the last Salah without any security breach in

Borno State is a testament to the effectiveness of government security measures.

Matawalle Calls For Loyalty , Unwavering Support To President Bola Tinubu Administration As He Visit Vice President

By
Victor Obabunmi
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The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, paid a courtesy visit to Vice President, H.E. Kashim Shettima GCON at the Presidential Villa.

They had convivial discussion on the way forward for Nigeria and the need to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his bold decisions , progressive actions and tremendous achievements recorded so far in the North and Nigeria as a whole.

Their discussion also focused on the need for the North to key into the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President for the developmental benefits of the North.

Accordingly, he Minister restated his commitment in supporting and defending the government’s policies and programs, rather than criticizing . He stressed the need for constructive dialogue and suggestions for improvement, and reminded all appointees of their responsibilities to promote the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on addressing security, economic, and social challenges.

He said that as the Minister of State for Defence, he is playing a crucial role in actualizing President Tinubu’s security mandate through various efforts, including:

  • Strategic Policy Development
  • Counter-Terrorism Initiatives
  • Capacity Building
  • Community Engagement
  • Regional Security Cooperation amongst others.

Furthermore, he said that by taking these steps, he is contributing to a safer, more secure Nigeria, adding that it is a call for unity and support among political appointees for the successful implementation of the President’s policies and programs.

Vice President commended the Minister for his unwavering support and loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and urged all other appointees to emulate this spirit of unity and teamwork.

He stated: “As we work together to address the challenges facing our nation, it is heartening to see our appointees standing firmly behind the President, providing valuable contributions and expertise to drive progress and development.” He emphasized the importance of unshakeable commitment to the President’s vision and policies, and encouraged all appointees to promote and implement these policies for the betterment of Nigeria.

FG Announces Plans to Revise Mining License Fees to Boost Sector Revitalization

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

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The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has announced plans to revise the rates of mining licenses and associated fees paid by mining operators across Nigeria.

This move aims to enhance the government’s capacity to revitalize the mining sector effectively.

During a consultative meeting with stakeholders in the mining industry, Minister Dr. Dele Alake emphasized the necessity of this review, highlighting the need for an enabling environment for mining operations and increased government revenue.

He also solicited stakeholder support for the impending fee increase, underscoring its inevitability.

The Minister addressed concerns about recent license revocations, affirming adherence to due process and extant laws, while providing a 30-day restitution window for affected operators.

Engr. Obadiah Nkom, Director-General of the Mining Cadastral Office and chair of the fees review committee, outlined the committee’s recommendations aimed at fostering affordability and enhancing the competitiveness of the mining sector’s fiscal regime.

The President of the Miners Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dele Ayanleke, commended the Minister’s efforts to elevate the mining sector globally.

Expressing support for ongoing reforms and the proposed fee review, Ayanleke urged consideration of miners’ challenges to ensure affordability.

The consultative meeting witnessed participation from various stakeholders, including representatives from Women In Mining (WIN), Gemstone Miners Association (GMA), and top ministry officials, signifying a collaborative effort towards revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector.

Defence Ministry to Partner Uni-Abuja on Research , Development Of Defence Hardwares Through DICON- Badaru

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

… For any meaningful development, there must be research

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, has charged the University of Abuja to partner with the Ministry of Defence through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) in the local production of defence equipment.

The Minister stated this when the Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah paid him a courtesy visit in Ship House, Abuja.

The Minister noted that the University being a center for research, can partner favourably with DICON in the production of Military weapons; drones, guns and other hardwares we need in the country.

The Minister opined that UNI- Abuja is a research driven University that offers various Engineering Courses and that it will be beneficial if it partners with DICON in local production of defence equipment.

He said: “For any useful development, there must be research.”Badaru appreciated the V.C for the visit and said that the Ministry will do everything necessary to see that the collaborative efforts of both institutions will boost Nigeria’s desire to produce defence equipment locally.

He explained to his guest that the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is a Military industry that is charged with the production of all military equipment and hardwares in Nigeria.

Earlier, in his response the Vice-Chancellor of University of Abuja, Professor Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah said that the purpose of their visit was to interact with the Minister on possible levels of collaboration in terms of ideas sharing and research.

He said that the University is well positioned in terms of research capabilities to support good ideas that will enhance the security of the nation.

FCT’s ACReSAL Project Boosts Agricultural Productivity in Kwali Area Council

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, supported by the World Bank, is making significant strides in enhancing agricultural productivity in Kwali Area Council, Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

During an engagement session with community members from Wako-Pukafa Catchment Area, Mr. Lawan Geidam, Mandate Secretary of the Agricultural and Rural Development Secretariat, FCT Administration, revealed the procurement of tractors and construction of solar-powered boreholes.

These initiatives, part of the project’s livelihood support, aim to bolster agricultural activities in the region. Geidam, also the Chairman of the project’s Technical Committee in FCT, highlighted the installation of solar-powered boreholes in eight communities within Kwali area council, providing sustainable water sources for irrigation and domestic use.

Contracts have also been awarded for the procurement of critical farm inputs, including improved seedlings, fertilizers, and pesticides, to enhance farmers’ efficiency and increase crop yields.

Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, Geidam emphasized the project’s goal of fortifying community resilience through capacity building and investments in natural resources management and good agricultural practices.

He underscored the importance of community engagement in achieving the project’s objectives, particularly as the new planting season commences.

Dr. Joy Agene, representing the World Bank-supported ACReSAL project, urged community members to take ownership of the initiative, emphasizing its community-driven nature.

Mrs. Caroline Opara, the Project Coordinator in FCT, highlighted the purpose of the community engagement session: to sensitize residents about the project and its various interventions, emphasizing its community-driven approach.

In response, Mr. Danladi Chiya, chairman of the council, expressed gratitude to the project implementation team and the FCTA for their support in improving the livelihoods of rural dwellers.

He pledged the council’s continued support for the success of the project, underscoring its significance in enhancing agricultural productivity and community well-being.

Federal Government to Host Strategic Retreat to Address Mining Industry Challenges

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Government has announced plans to organize a strategic retreat aimed at addressing the lingering issues in the mining industry, particularly the coordination between federal and state governments.

This initiative was revealed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Oladele Alake, following discussions with AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State.

During a meeting with Governor Dikko Umar Rada of Katsina State, Alake emphasized the crucial role of Katsina in the mining sector due to its rich mineral resources.

He reiterated that while solid minerals fall under the exclusive list, states must work closely with the federal government on mining policies and actions.

Governor Rada commended the minister’s efforts to reform the sector and expressed Katsina’s willingness to collaborate with the federal government to harness its mineral potential for regional and national benefit.

He also raised concerns about security challenges in the state, linking them to poverty, injustice, and illegal mining activities.

In response, Minister Alake assured the governor of the federal government’s support in tackling illegal mining with the newly established Mining Marshals.

He also highlighted the importance of the revised Community Development Agreement guidelines, which require consent letters from host communities before granting mining licenses.

Furthermore, Dr. Alake emphasized the strategic role states can play through the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO), where governors can nominate the chairman and a significant number of members to oversee mining operations effectively.

He encouraged Katsina to follow the example of other states that have successfully applied for mining licenses to operate as limited liability companies, promising swift processing of such applications.

This planned retreat and the ongoing dialogues demonstrate a comprehensive approach to resolving the complexities of managing Nigeria’s mining resources collaboratively between the federal and state governments.

FCTA Disburses N6.3 Billion to Area Councils , Stakeholders, Marks 40% Increase

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has released a total of N6,316,621,045.37 billion to the six area councils and other stakeholders as statutory allocation for March 2024.

This allocation represents a significant 40% increase compared to the previous month’s allocation of N3,938,092,102.92 billion in February 2024.

Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the FCT Minister of State, who chaired the 188th Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), expressed satisfaction with the substantial increase.

She urged area council authorities to utilize the allocation for meaningful projects that benefit residents, emphasizing that the allocation goes beyond merely paying staff salaries.

A breakdown of the allocation reveals that:

  • N3,814,043,951.50 billion was earmarked for distribution to the six area councils
  • N2,502,577,093.87 billion was allocated to other critical stakeholders

Among the area councils, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) received N796,985,326.39 million, followed by Gwagwalada with N606,666,131.20 million and Kuje with N635,903,823.41 million.

Allocations to other stakeholders include:

  • N2,115,855,089.92 billion for Primary School Teachers
  • N226,478,989.57 million for 15% Pension Funds
  • N52,394,108.75 million for One percent Training Fund
  • N107,849,405.63 million for 10% Employer Pension Contribution

The JAAC meeting was attended by key officials, including Dr. Abdullahi Isa Kauramata, Senior Special Assistant on Administration and Strategy to the FCT Minister of State, Hon. Bitrus Garki, Mandate Secretary of Area Council Services Secretariat, and Dr. Olusa Olusegun, Permanent Secretary of Area Council Services Secretariat.

Representatives from various area councils were also present, highlighting the collaborative effort to ensure transparent and equitable allocation of resources for the development of the FCT.

Wike Forges Partnership with Hungary to Boost Security , Agriculture

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In a bid to strengthen security and agricultural development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike has initiated a strategic partnership with Hungary.

This exciting collaboration was unveiled during a meeting with the Consul-General of the Embassy of Hungary in Nigeria, Endre Peter Deri, at the Minister’s office in Abuja.

Wike emphasized the administration’s commitment to tackling security challenges and expressed keen interest in acquiring cutting-edge drones to enhance security measures.

He stressed the importance of identifying the most suitable drones for the FCT and ensuring their efficiency and reliability. “We’re determined to address security concerns, and with the help of Hungary, we can leverage drone technology to achieve this goal,” Wike stated.

Beyond security, the Minister highlighted the significance of agriculture and expressed eagerness to collaborate with Hungary in this area.

He offered land for agricultural projects, underscoring the potential for a mutually beneficial partnership. “We’re ready to work together to drive agricultural growth and ensure food security in the FCT,” Wike said.

The Consul-General of the Embassy of Hungary in Nigeria, Endre Peter Deri, praised Wike for his impressive achievements and conveyed Hungary’s willingness to support the FCTA in addressing security concerns through drone technology.

He also presented a proposal for collaboration in agriculture, highlighting the University of Agriculture’s readiness to partner with the FCT in promoting sustainable production practices through public-private partnerships (PPP).

This meeting marks a significant milestone in fostering international cooperation to enhance security and agricultural development in the FCT.

The partnership with Hungary is poised to bring about innovative solutions and expertise, further solidifying the FCT’s position as a hub for growth and progress.

FCTA Cracks Down on Okada Operators in Restricted Areas, Vows to Adopt New Strategies

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Directorate of Road Traffic Service (DRTS) of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a crackdown on commercial motorcycles operating in restricted areas, with a promise to adopt stringent measures to combat the menace.

Deborah Osho, Deputy Director and head of Operations at DRTS (popularly known as VIO), announced this during a clampdown operation on okada operators at various locations in Idu, including the Federal Medical Centre, EFCC, and NASENI areas.

While Osho did not reveal the exact measures to be taken against the okada operators, she emphasized that discussions and planning are underway to address the challenge.

She expressed concern over reports from residents regarding the activities of commercial motorcycle operators and stressed the need to tackle the issue.

Osho affirmed that it is the mandate of DRTS to rid the FCT of commercial bikes, particularly when they violate traffic laws. She highlighted the areas of focus for the operation, including Idu, NASENI, and EFCC, where residents have complained about the menace of okada riders.

Dr. Peter Olumuji, Secretary of Command and Control FCTA, clarified that the motorcycles distributed to security agencies by the FCT Minister are not the same as those impounded by DRTS.

He debunked misconceptions suggesting that seized motorcycles were being repurposed for security purposes, emphasizing that the bikes inaugurated by the FCT Administration were specifically purchased for security operations and not for commercial use.

Olumuji emphasized the importance of the security motorcycles in enabling security agencies, vigilantes, and hunters to access difficult terrains in border communities. He noted that these motorcycles have facilitated arrests in challenging environments where conventional vehicles struggle to navigate.

FG Groundbreaking Gender Strategy for Nigerian Mining , Steel Sectors

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In a landmark move, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has launched a pioneering gender strategy for the Nigerian Mining and Steel sectors. This innovative initiative aims to promote diversity, empower women, and enhance the overall sustainability of the mining sector.

At a dual launch event, which also introduced the Women In Mining In Nigeria (WIMIN) strategy, Hon. Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, emphasized the administration’s commitment to gender equity and female participation. He stressed that promoting gender equality is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic decision that will drive innovation and contribute to the nation’s sustainable development.

Dr. Alake acknowledged the indispensable contributions of women to the success and sustainability of the mining sector, highlighting their talents, expertise, and perspectives as crucial for industry growth. He reflected on past biases and inequalities, affirming the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering diversity and empowering women through its roadmap initiative.

The Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification (MinDiver) engaged a consultancy firm, N & G Consulting Firm Ltd, to develop the gender strategy. The Minister issued a clarion call to action, stating objectives firmly rooted in equality, diversity, and empowerment. He emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing women’s participation in leadership and governance roles within the mining sector and communities.

The National President of WIMIN, represented by the National Secretary, Mrs. Emily Ofodile, described the launch as a beacon of hope and a platform for collective action and solidarity towards meaningful change. Dr. Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministries of Solid Minerals Development and Steel Development, urged industry players to remain steadfast in implementing the gender strategy effectively, ensuring an equitable and inclusive mining sector.

Engineer Sellim Salam, Project Coordinator of MinDiver, underscored the importance of engaging a consultancy firm to conduct a gender study and develop a strategy to uplift women’s benefits and mainstream their participation in the sector. The unveiling ceremony featured a revealing presentation by N & G Consulting Firm Ltd, along with goodwill messages from various organizations, highlighting the collective commitment to advancing gender equality and empowerment in the Nigerian mining and steel sectors.

This groundbreaking gender strategy marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more inclusive and sustainable mining sector in Nigeria.

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