Jonathan, Good Example Of What Nigerian Leader Should Be – Tinubu Celebrates GEJ On 66th Birthday

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November 19, 2023

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu has advised leaders aspiring to make a difference to emulate former President Goodluck Jonathan’s wisdom, foresight, and patriotism.

This was contained in the president congratulatory message to Goodluck Jonathan, a former president, on his 66th birthday.

In a statement released on Sunday by Ajuri Ngelale, special adviser on media and publicity, Tinubu celebrated the former president for his unique demonstration of statesmanship and for his distinguishing achievement as a leader.

He said Jonathan gave Nigeria and Africa a pride of place in democratic lore by “upending the vitiating paradigm of those who seek to hold onto power by all means.

“President Tinubu shares the joyous occasion with one of our icons of democracy, whose humility continues to inspire hope for good governance in the country and on the continent.

“The President believes the former President possesses a distinguished profile on leadership, rising up the ladder as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice-President and President, and now championing the cause of peace in Africa by bringing together and counselling leaders on harmonious co-existence for the benefit of the people they serve.

The President commends former President Jonathan for committing himself to the service of humanity and to strengthening democratic institutions, exemplified by his relentless peace missions and advocacy of non-violence in the peaceful transition of power across the African continent.”

He wished the former president and Patience, his wife, sustained good health.

Abdulsalami Abubakar Urges Tinubu To Facilitate New Minimum Wage, Says N30,000 Unacceptable

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Ayodele Oni

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November 19, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

Former Military Head of State, and Chairman National Peace Committee, Abdusalami Abubakar, has described as impractical and unacceptable the current N30,000 minimum wage, given the current state of the country.

Abubakar urged President Bola Tinubu, governors, and other politicians to contemplate raising the minimum wage in light of the ongoing hardships in the nation.

He spoke at a maiden Peace, Unity, and Reconciliation summit organized by the Taraba state Independent Peace Committee, in Jalingo.

Represented by Rev Fr Atta Barkindo, the Head of the Secretariat, National Peace Committee, Abdusalami argued that Nigeria cannot thrive without peace, and the prevailing suffering is too much to bear.

The summit was in collaboration with the Kukah Centre, the United Nations, UNESCO, and other partners.

“The suffering in this country is too much. N30,000 as a monthly salary is unacceptable anywhere. So, we are pleading with the politicians from the president to the state governors to the commissioners, please, live up to the social contract you have signed with the people and let us begin to enjoy the dividends of democracy.”

He expressed disapproval of the off-cycle governorship elections in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states.

”What is really wrong with us Nigerians? We just came from Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo states as the peace committee to witness and support the peaceful, credible, inclusive, and fair electoral process, but it is shocking what we saw.

“We must treat Nigerians equally if we want Nigeria and Taraba State to survive. No religion is superior to the other, no tribe is superior to the other, and no class is superior to the other.

“We are all equal human beings looking for the same stake in Taraba. Let us dialogue and see how we can bring a solution.

”I wish and I hope the politicians were here, we have done everything, and is left for the politicians to deliver.”

Provide Adequate Rehabilitation Programmes For Freed Inmates – Expert

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Ayodele Oni

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November 19, 2023

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By Ayodele Oni

Dr. Nathaniel Oyinloye, Founder, Hospital and Prison Welfare Initiative (HPWI), has advised the federal government to make adequate provision for rehabilitation for freed inmates of Correctional Centres in the country.

Reacting to the release of over 4000 inmates from Correctional Centres by the Federal Ministry of Interior at the weekend after payment of their fines, Oyinloye said former inmates in the country are confronted with many challenges upon their release.

He explained that “I am not making generalizations about the experiences of former inmates in Nigeria or any other country, as each individual’s experience is unique and can be influenced by a variety of factors.

“However, there are several challenges that many former inmates in Nigeria may face upon their release, which can make it difficult for them to reintegrate into society and lead productive lives.

“These challenges can include:Insufficient Rehabilitation Programmes: Without proper post-prison support, many inmates may lack access to rehabilitation programmes, hindering their ability to reintegrate into society and potentially increasing the likelihood of reoffending.

“Increased Risk of Recidivism: Without proper support, released prisoners may struggle to reintegrate into society, increasing the risk of relapse into criminal behavior.

“The Nigerian criminal justice system has been criticized for its high rate of recidivism, which can make it difficult for former inmates to break the cycle of incarceration and reintegrate into society.”

He also listed unemployment challenges such as insufficient support for employment opportunities which may lead to high unemployment rates among released inmates, making them more susceptible to resorting to illegal activities for survival.

“Strain on Community Resources: Releasing a large number of individuals without adequate support infrastructure could strain community resources, including social services, employment agencies, and housing assistance.

“Potential for Social Unrest: If released inmates face challenges in adapting to civilian life, there is a risk of social unrest, as frustrated individuals may engage in criminal activities out of desperation.

“Public Safety Concerns: Inadequate support increases the likelihood of released individuals committing new offenses, posing a threat to public safety and community well-being.”

Gov Adeleke Denies Removing Osun Chief Judge

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Ayodele Oni

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November 19, 2023

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Ademola Adeleke sworn in as Governor of Osun State

By Ayodele Oni

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has denied reports that he removed the Chief Judge and appointed an Acting Chief Judge for the state.

The Governor explained that what he did was that he only forwarded the resolution of the House of Assembly and recommendation for an Acting appointment to the Chief Justice of the Federation for decision and action.

This was contained in a statement on Sunday, signed on behalf of the Governor by the Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi.

The statement reads : “With all sense of responsibility, it is important to set the records straight that Governor Adeleke has only duly notified the Chief Justice as the Chairman of the National Judicial Council (NJC) in writing about the resolutions of the House of Assembly following series of petitions made against the sitting Chief Judge of Osun State.

“In the communication, Mr Governor intimated the CJN of the recommendation of the House that the Chief Judge should step aside and included his own submission for an acting appointment to fill the vacuum, while the NJC reviews and decides on the petition.

“To that end, the Governor in the same letter recommended to the CJN, the appointment of the most senior judicial officer, Hon.Justice Olayinka David Afolabi for thorough consideration and further processing by the same NJC through the CJN.

“We urge the public to note that while the House of Assembly recommended the appointment of a replacement to the Governor in its resolution, the Governor however toed the line of law by writing the CJN on the entire development and submitting all materials for NJC as mandated national agency.

“We therefore wish to state categorically that Governor Adeleke has not appointed any judicial official as Acting Chief Judge and nobody has been sworn as Acting Chief Judge of Osun state.

“Governor Adeleke is a man of due process and rule of law with a deep level of respect for the bar and the bench, the NJC and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We assure the public that Mr Governor is fully aware of the limit of his powers, as well as the responsibilities of the various agencies of government and will therefore not act in any way to violate the constitution and rule of law.”

The removal of the Chief Judge and the appointment of another in an Acting capacity has met with strong criticisms and rejection. For starters, the Nigeria Bar Association, NBA, has given notice that it would not recognize the Acting Chief Judge.

Akeredolu Mourns Former Ondo Military Governor Opaleye Says Selfless Service Will Be Remembered

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Ayodele Oni

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November 19, 2023

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Major General Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has described the death of a former military governor of the State, Major General Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye (rtd), as a huge loss to the state and the country.

A statement on Sunday by Richard Olatunde, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor stated that late Opaleye will be remembered for his contributions to the development of the country and his selfless service in the Nigeria Army.

“We received the news of the death of one of our foremost leaders, a former military governor of our dear state, Major General Opaleye (Rtd) with great sadness.

“This great man was Governor of the old Ondo State comprising the present Ondo and Ekiti States from August 1986 to December 1987 during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.

“His death signaled a depletion in the array of resourceful and prominent figures that have nurtured our sunshine state to its present glory. We are saddened by his departure.

“Major General Opaleye (Rtd) was a signpost of patriotism. His dedication and commitment to the service of the country were admirable.

“He served as Corps Commander of the Nigerian Army Engineers and Commander of the OAU Neutral Military Organization Group (NMOG) in Rwanda, among others, culminating in his elevation to the rank of Major General.

“His time as governor of the Old Ondo State was marked with development and distinction. He left an indelible mark on the state through his commitment to public service and dedication to national development.

“His legacy of selfless leadership and meritorious service will be remembered with gratitude.”

Governor Akeredolu commiserated with the family of the deceased, while praying to God to give them the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, grandchildren, and the entire family he left behind. May God grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss and grant the deceased eternal rest.”

NDA Celebrates Lt Col. Imam, First Nigerian Army Academic Professor

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Adesina Soyooye

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November 19, 2023

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By Adesina Soyooye

A Lt. Col in the Nigeria Army has made history by setting an academic record.

Katsina State born Lt. Col. Abubakar-Surajo Imam has been promoted in the academic sector as the first Professor in the Army.

The cheering news of Imam’s promotion to a Professor of Mechatronics Engineering was announced when the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, confirmed his promotion to the enviable rank.

By the promotion, Imam is the first professor from among the serving personnel of the Nigeria Army.

Imam’s promotion was announced by the Registrar of the NDA, Brig.-Gen. AM Tukur in a statement on Friday. Tukur said that Imam’s promotion was ratified by the NDA Council in September during a meeting. It, however, took effect from Oct. 1, 2022.

Tukur noted that Imam’s promotion is a reflection of “the confidence and recognition of his contributions to the Department of Mechatronics Engineering of the Academy.

According to Tukur, Professor Imam has provided “exemplary services and upheld the standard of excellence expected in his field.

“This recognition not only honours Professor Imam but also highlights the commitment of the Nigerian Defence Academy to acknowledging and rewarding outstanding contributions within its academic community.”

Felicitating with the new Professor, Tukur said in the statement: “On behalf of the Commandant and staff of the Academy, I sincerely congratulate you on your well-deserved promotion.

“It is expected that you will continue to work hard to justify the confidence.”

Professor Imam is from Kankia in Katsina State. He started his journey to the peak of academics from Bayero University, Kano, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Imam, also, holds a Master Degree in Mechatronics from Newcastle University, United Kingdom which he capped with a PhD in Mechatronics and Robotics from the same University.

The young Imam joined the Nigerian Army as a member of Short Service Combatant Course 32, and was posted to the Nigerian Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

Later, he converted to Regular Commission, which enabled him to serve in numerous Units. Such Units included 1 Base Workshop, Technical Group EME, HQ Nigerian Army Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps, and DICON.

Imam is an Examiner and Member Central Selection Committee for Master and PhD candidates under the sponsorship of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund.

He is also a Researcher with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), the Defence Research and Development Bureau, Abuja, Command Engineering Depot, Buffalo Engineering Technology, and National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure.

Prfessor Imam is also a Researcher with the Air Force Institute of Technology, Kaduna, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Wudil, Kano State.

He is reputed to have attended more than 40 International Workshops as well as numerous seminars. He has, also, presented papers at several conferences in the United Kingdom, Spain, Egypt and the United States of America.

Presently, Imam doubles as Head, Department of Mechatronics Engineering and Director Centre for Innovation and Creativity at the NDA.

Lt. Col. Imam, through his Research and Development efforts at the NDA, has contributed, very much, to enhancing the visibility of the NDA among Nigerian Universities.

It is thanks to him that the Department of Mechatronic Engineering was founded at the NDA, as well as the establishment of the Centre for Innovation and Creativity.

The Centre is a platform for the realisation of “Nigeria’s Military Industrial Complex through promotion of innovation and creativity in cutting-edge technologies related to novel military and civil hardware and software solutions, thereby reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign technical solutions.”

A prolific writer, Professor Imam, according to reports, has, to his name, published books on Mechatronics; PIC Microcontrollers; Embedded Systems Design; Sensors and Actuators for Embedded Systems; Coding, Robotics and Drone Tachnology for Kids; and Field Manual for Drone Technology, among others.

Professor Imam was born on 22nd June, 1976.

Lt Col. Imam Sets Record, Becomes First Nigeria Army Professor