Tinubu Bows To ‘Fulani’ Herders, Creates Livestock Ministry

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July 9, 2024

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a bold step in solving the perennial farmers and herders clashes following the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development.

The president created the new ministry on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope livestock Reform Implementation Committee established to address the issue of farmers-herders crisis.

Constant clashes between farmers and cattle herders have lingered for too long with many Nigerians demanding solutions from the government.

While some Nigerians welcome the development, others insist that the president has finally succumbed to pressure from mostly Fulani herdsmen for a ministry to be created for them to take care of their business.

President had Tinubu in September, 2023, approved the establishment of the Presidential Committee dedicated to the reform of the livestock industry and the provision of long-term solutions to recurring clashes between herders and farmers in the country.

This followed the submission of a report from the National Conference on Livestock Reforms and Mitigation of Associated Conflicts in Nigeria.

Also, the president of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, Usman Ngelzarma had last month appealed to Tinubu to create the livestock ministry.

Ngelzarma said,‘‘The entire livestock value chain issues can be addressed holistically rather than what is going on now at the National Assembly, working to create a bill for Animal Husbandry or Ranching. Ranching is just an aspect of livestock instead of going for ranching why can’t the president create a pool-blown ministry for livestock so that all the value chain related to livestock issues can be addressed holistically by that ministry?

Analysts insist that Tinubu has taken one of the critical steps to addressing the problem by creating the new ministry.

Ekiti: Oyebanji Launches N1 billion Loan For Businesswomen, Says Facility not National Cake

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Ayodele Oni

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July 9, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has told female business owners that the Ekiti State Government (EKSG)/Access Bank N1 billion Loan Initiative should not be perceived as a share of the “National Cake”.

The governor explained that the soft loan initiative was targeted at stimulating the economy and fully involve women in the evolving development process.

The governor spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Tuesday at the official launching of the EKSG/ Access Bank Women Initiative, a bipartite partnership, where N1 billion soft loan will be given to female traders and business owners.

Addressing the female business owners from the 16 Local Government areas of the state in Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji, stated that the soft loan offers succour to dismantle the barriers being encountered to raise capitals for the growth of businesses.

The governor, who noted that adequate security was being provided to protect investments in Ekiti and urged the beneficiaries to plough the facility into their businesses to bring a better industrial and entrepreneurial facelift to the state.

He added that the ingenious measure was to propel the beneficiaries’ businesses and for them to break even under the current harsh business environment.

“This programme was to bridge the gap being experienced in our women having access to loans in Ekiti. I want to appeal to the beneficiaries to make good use of this loan.

“It is a revolving loan and not part of what you can consider as a share of national cake. You have to pay back, so that others who are still yearning for it can also have access.

“The State Government decided to enter into this agreement with Access Bank, so that we can improve on the development of MSMEs in Ekiti.

“My administration has set up what we called Office of the Ease of Doing Business and also providing functional industrial park, where investors will pay highly subsidized amount to acquire lands to establish their industries.

“We are also helping local contractors to get technical partners, machinery and equipment.

“Let me inform you that this is also part of the plans put in place by the government to realize a change in Ekiti State economy from a public sector to a private sector driven economy”, the governor added.

In her contributions, the First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, disclosed that the soft loan offers veritable opportunity to provide robust funding for entrepreneurs, saying every sector of the economy like education, health, industry and others required people taking loans for advancement.

Mrs Oyebanji said the success of women in business will have ripple effects that transcend their immediate families in the society and the country at large, lamenting how female owners of MSMEs are being confronted with encumbrances in accessing funds to propel their businesses.

“This is not a national cake, this is your working capital. Taking this loan and pay back will provide opportunity for other women, so don’t default.

“Don’t forget that you have guarantors and if you default, they are going to be the ones to be held liable.”

Bill For Gifted Centres Scales Second Reading At House Of Representatives

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Ayodele Oni

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July 9, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

A Bill for an act to establish the Gifted and Talented Centres in the six Geo-Political Zones in Nigeria; and for Related Matters has scaled second reading at the House of Representatives.

According to the sponsors, the bill aims to establish legally-backed Gifted and Talented centres in each of the six geo-political zones in Nigeria, to nurture exceptionally talented students and provide the necessary support and resources for their development.

Sponsors of the bill are Akintunde Rotimi,Jr., Benjamin Okezie Kalu Julius Ihonvbere, Sada Soli, Mark Bako Useni and Tanko Adamu.

They observed that the Federal Ministry of Education currently runs a Gifted and Talented Centre in Suleja, but it lacks the legal backing needed for adequate funding and support.

Stressing urgent necessity for the Bill, they explained that the current educational system often fails to meet the uniqueness of gifted children, leaving them unchallenged and uninspired.

“Establishing specialized academies can help nurture and develop the intellectual potential of these children, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s intellectual second landscapes intellectual and economic landscape.

“Ensuring gifted children have their sources and environment to reach their full potential is crucial for national development.

“These academies will cultivate future leaders, inventors, and innovators, moving Nigeria towards greater heights.

“The purpose of these academies is to provide fair chances to all gifted children, regardless of their background.”

The Lawmakers explained further that the selection criteria for the centres will include provisions for merit-based to promote inclusivity, international standards and success stories.

“Many countries have recognized the importance of fostering gifted individuals through specialized institutions.

“The Centre for Talented Youth at Johns Hopkins University has nurtured numerous successful indviduals.The High-Performance Learning Programme at the Singapore American School has enabled gifted students to excel.

Other benefits as listed in the bill are provision of an environment conducive to the overall growth of gifted children and, contributing to the broader development and progress of Nigeria.

The bill contains a total of 15 sections that outline the establishment, objectives, administration, funding, and other relevant key provisions.

Abia Workers Begin Indefinite Strike, July15, As ABSU Again Protests Over Unpaid Salary Arrears

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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July 9, 2024

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Alex Otti - Abia State Governor — Alex Otti, Abia State Governor

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigeria Labour Congress NLC, and its ally the Trade Union Congress TUC, Abia State Chapters, have served a notice of industrial action effective from July 15 2024.

However, the strike could be averted if the Abia state Government meets the demands of the workers within the next seven days.

At the heart of the workers demands are the immediate implementation of the 2019 N30,000 minimum wage agreement, and the recent N35,000 wage award which was approved by the Federal Government in 2023.

In a letter issued at the end of their General meeting on Monday July 8, jointly signed by Okoro Ogbonnaya and Enogwe Ihechi NLC and TUC Chairman respectively, the union. said the decision to embark on the strike action followed the expiry of an earlier 21 day notice.

The Union Leaders, also, in the letter, which was addressed to the Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti, expressed disappointment over the failure of the Government to attend to the legitimate demands of the workers.

They stated that the State Government has refused to engage the workers on how to possibly resolve the issues.

The organized labour warned that if the Government fails to attend to the workers on before the end of the seven days ultimatum ,they would be left with no other option than to proceed on an indefinite industrial action.

The NLC and TUC leaders informed that workers across ministries, and MDAs have been adequately mobilised ,for the strike action.

In a related development, for the second time in less than two weeks, the state owned University in Uturu ,was on Tuesday July 9 again locked down.

This followed a protest march by the university staffers over unpaid 11 months salary arrears ,and their April and May salaries this year.

The Academic Staff Union of University ASSU- ABSU had about penultimate week led its members and other members of the university community to protest against same issues.

The State Government has promised to commence the settlement of all inherited salary arrears from the end of this month.

The State Commissioner for Finance Mike Akpara, had in the wake of the first Protest march ,informed that the payments which will be made in tranches, will be concluded on or before the end of 2024.

Gov. Aiyedatiwa Assures Ondo Retirees Of Prompt Payment Of Gratuities

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Ayodele Oni

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July 9, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, gave hope to retirees from public service as he told them that his administration is reviewing the template for the payment of gratuity to ensure speedy payment of backlog owed.

This, he said, is in continuation of the efforts of his administration towards promoting the welfare of retirees in the State.

The Governor stated this on Tuesday, during the flag-off ceremony of the second batch of bulk payments of outstanding gratuities to local government retirees, in Akure.

Aiyedatiwa recalled previous payments made under his administration, noting the substantial relief provided for many retirees, adding that such regular payments will continue.

The Governor stated that “Today is another landmark in our avowed commitment to the welfare of our people, including workers in service and at retirement in the Sunshine State.

“In November 2023, the First Batch of this innovative bulk payment of outstanding gratuity of our former Local Government Staff and primary school teachers was carried out.

“In January 2024, another flag-off of payment of N1.2 billion was also performed for the year 2014 pensioners of the State Civil Service.”

The Governor revealed that the current batch focuses predominantly on local government retirees from the year 2012 and aims to settle remaining arrears from previous years, reiterating his administration’s dedication to the consistent and fair payment of pensions and gratuities.

The Governor also addressed concerns about the fairness of the payment process, assuring that the system in place prioritizes equity, fairness, and transparency.

He urged those who were not included in this batch to remain hopeful as the administration continues its efforts to maximize the happiness and welfare of the greatest number of people.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, in his welcome address, thanked the Governor for his prompt action, acknowledging that retirees have been facing hardship for many years.

Takuro disclosed that the governor had tasked him with saving funds specifically to pay pensioners and highlighted the gratitude of retirees for his compassion and dedication to their welfare.

Ekiti Court Clamps Life Imprisonment On Ex NSDC Officer For Rape

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Ayodele Oni

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July 9, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

Nemesis has caught up with a law enforcement officer in Ekiti State as he bagged life imprisonment for rape.

A High Court in Ado Ekiti sentenced one Olukayode Dayo, a former officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, (NSCDC) to life imprisonment for offence of rape.

The 39 year old convict was arraigned before Justice Lekan Olatawura on 13th May, 2022 on one count charge bordering on rape.

The charge reads that Olukayode Dayo on 25th of December, 2021 at Ado Ekiti within the jurisdiction of this Honourable court did rape a 13 years old girl.

According to the charge, the offence is contrary to section 31(2) of the Child’s Rights Law, Cap. C7, Laws of Ekiti State, 2012.

In his statement to the police, the victim said, “I was living with my grandmother, I was sent home to go and bring banana and kolanut, on my way home, one man called Olukay (the defendant) crossed me with his motorcycle.

“He dropped the banana and kolanut on my head, he carried me to a fenced uncompleted building, I was shouting but he did not listen to me.

“He removed my pant and started having sex with me, a passerby who heard my voice entered the compound, he took to his heels on citing the man, the man chased him but he was unable to catch him, he came back and take me to my grandmother, he explained what happened to her.”

To proof his case, the prosecutor Julius Ajibare called six witnesses and tendered the defendant’s statement, photographs of the victim and medical report as exhibits.

The defendant spoke in his own defence through his counsel Oluwaseun Oyebanji, he denied committing the offence, but pleaded to the court to temper justice with mercy, and called no witness.

Delivering judgment, Justice Lekan Olatawura said, “in this event, the victim consistently, unequivocally and unshaking stated that the defendant who was well known to her was the person who raped her.

“In all, I find the case proved beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant raped the 13 year old girl on 25th December, 2021 and consequent thereupon, I find him guilty as charged.

Consequent upon the foregoing, the defendant is sentenced to life imprisonment.”

Samoa Agreement: Reps Mandates Committee To Probe Agreement, Urges FG To Halt Implementation

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Ayodele Oni

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July 9, 2024

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By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives has mandated its relevant committees to probe controversial provisions of agreement in Samoa agreement with European Union, (EU).

This is just as the House moved a motion urging the Federal Government to suspend the implementation of the contentious accord until all the clauses are addressed and spelt out.

The Samoa Agreement signed by the Federal Government with the European Union, have been receiving heavy backlash with many frowning at what they perceive as giving recognition to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender, LGBT, rights.

A member of the House, Aliyu Madaki, while moving the motion on Tuesday, drew attention to the clause which highlights “gender equality”, describing it as a Trojan horse which could violate the morals of the country.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, alongside his counterpart in the Ministry of Information, Mohammed Idris, had at a press conference on Saturday, said Nigeria won’t enter into an agreement that was antithetical to the Constitution, as well as the religious and cultural sensibilities of the heterogeneous people of the country.

Bagudu had explained that Nigeria signed the agreement to boost food security and inclusive economic development, amongst other objectives.

Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives Warns Foreign Investors To Respect Nigeria Labour Laws

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Akinwale Kasali

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July 9, 2024

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By Akinwale Kasali

Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives has warned Foreign Investors to respect the Nation’s Labour Laws or face the wrath of the Law.

Kalu said this when a delegation from Quingdao Municipal Council, China, led by the Chairman of the Standing Committee of Qingdao Municipal People’s Congress, Wang Luming paid him a courtesy call.

He added that foreign companies and investors should adhere and subscribe strictly to the Nigerian labour laws in line with international best practices while carrying out their businesses in the country.

The Lawmaker described Qingdao as China’s powerhouse in ship building and construction, and recalled Nigeria’s diplomatic ties with China. He noted that both countries have collaborated well on issues of mutual benefits.

Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Qingdao Municipal People’s Congress, Wang Luming said they came to synergise with the Nigerian Government in areas of technology, vocational education and talent training in a bid to address unemployment in the country.

In a statement, by Kalu’s Chief Press Secretary, Levinus Nwabughiogu, quoted Kalu as saying, “It’s important to comply with the labour laws. As we have more companies coming to Nigeria, we are strict with compliance with our laws.

“We have observed that some of the companies that are working in Nigeria are not complying with our labour laws, this is with regards to taking care of those working for them.”

The Deputy Speaker however, pledged the readiness of the House to dialogue with its Chinese counterpart for the mutual benefit of both countries.

“The House of Representatives is eager to engage in meaningful discussions with the Qingdao Municipal People’s Congress as part of the core engagements toward actualizing the House’s eight-point legislative agenda most especially through business and investment-friendly legislative frameworks and oversight.

“By working together, we can unlock a future of mutual benefit.

“We believe that this meeting will help enhance our understanding of shared interests, strengthen partnerships in economic sectors, facilitate opportunities for Qingdao enterprises in Nigeria, and promote mutual understanding and friendship, laying a strong foundation for deepening bilateral relations.

“We can join forces to build the infrastructure Nigeria needs to thrive. From top-notch home appliances to reliable tyres and delectable processed foods, Qingdao’s manufacturing muscle presents a wealth of opportunities. Imagine factories humming in Nigeria, producing these goods or even becoming export hubs to the rest of Africa,” he added.

NNPP Says Suspension, Expulsion Of Gov. Yusuf, Kwankwaso, Laughable, Done By Renegades

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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July 9, 2024

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, has described as laughable and untenable the purported expulsion of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and suspension of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf from the Party.

The National Executive Committee, NEC, of the party had, on Sunday July 7, reaffirmed the earlier suspension slammed on the Kano State Governor ,as well as the expulsion of Kwankwaso and some members of his Political movement- Kwankwassiya

In a statement jointly issued by Umar Jibril and Omolara Johnson, the NNPP NEC said the six months suspension order slammed on Governor Yusuf remains in force. It, also, reaffirmed the expulsion of its Presidential Candidate in the 2023 General elections, Rabiu Kwankwaso.

But while briefing the Media, the Kano Chairman of the Party, Hashimu Suleiman Dungurawa, said the purported expulsion and suspension will not stand as it was carried out by a renegade group already expelled from the party .

He noted that those behind the development are outside forces ,belonging to a long discredited faction, insisting that Kwankwaso remains not just a member of the NNPP, but also its national leader.

Further speaking, Dungurawa, expressed surprise how Governor Yusuf who is the only NNPP Governor in the country will be suspended, and Kwankwaso the pillar of the party expelled by a sponsored group.

He, therefore, declared the action of the group as null and void, and of no consequence to the party whatsoever.

He maintained that the teaming members and followers of the NNPP across the country will neither be distracted nor worried by the antics of the sponsored group,who are only out to distabilize the party.

The Kano NNPP Chairman noted that no amount of blackmail,and political subterfuge will distract members from strengthening and repositioning the party . in order to provide good governance for Nigerians.

The Source reports that ,the Kano NNPP chairman had on Sunday July 7 ,informed that its presidential candidate in 2023 elections Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso , will be fielded back in 2027 .

He insisted that the two time Governor of Kano state ,remains the only viable option open for the party to mount a serious challenge for the Presidential seat of the country.

Enugu Set To Pay Teachers Four Years Leave Allowances, As Resident Doctors At Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Awka Serve Strike Notice

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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July 9, 2024

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Enugu State Government has approved the sum of over N1.9 billion for the payments of Teachers’ leave allowances.

The leave allowances are for a four-year period.

This is just as Resident Doctors at the Chukuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital COOTH, Amaku, near Awka the Anambra state capital are gearing up for an industrial action over non payments of their allowances and poor medical infrastructural facilities at the tertiary Hospital.

A statement on Monday July 8, 2024 by Governor Peter Mba’s Media office said the step is in keeping with an earlier promise by the State Chief Executive to off-set the teachers entitlements .

“The payments are also in line with the administration’s commitment towards improving the general wellbeing of teachers in Enugu state with the intent to enhancing their productivity”, the statement further noted.

Similarly ,the statement said that it is “Governor Mba’s conviction that for the children to access quality education,the welfare of the teachers has to be prioritized.”

The recent gesture comes on the heels of the extension of the payments of the N30,00 minimum wage in the state to serving teachers.

NARD- COOUTH hinted on Monday, that its members may be forced to withdraw their services any moment if there is no improvement in their working conditions.

President of the umbrella body of the doctors, Dr Onyebuchi Ichoko, at a media interaction, said the mandatory 21-day notice required before the commencement of strike action has been exhausted.

He informed that the decision to proceed on indefinite industrial action was reached at the body’s general meeting following the expiry of the 21 day notice.

Part of the demands of the Doctors include, hazard allowance, medical residency training fund, and the implementation of a 25 percent increase in basic salary effective July 2023 .

“After the expiration of the 21 working day notice given to the State Government, to implement the basic demands of the resident doctors or face a strike action, we held an OGM where our members unanimously voted for a strike action.

“But the Executive pleaded for time so that we could reach out to the Governor for an urgent intervention.” Dr Ichoku stated

The NARD president noted ,that before now,they had made several futile attempts to the draw the attention of the authorities to the plights of the doctors..

He blamed the current problem of brain drain within the sector on the poor working conditions of Doctors in the country,with the ones available being subjected to undue pressure.

The NARD -COOTH lamented that all their demands have since been implemented at the Federal level .