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NUJ National Election: Yahaya, Defeats Two Others To Emerge President

November 28, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

A former Deputy National President, Alhassan Yahaya, has become the first candidate from the North Eastern part of Nigeria to assume the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). He defeated two other contestant to emerge as the new National President .

The Journalist from Gombe State polled 436 votes at the just concluded triennial Congress of the union held in Owerri, the Imo State Capital.

Announcing the results of the election at around 1:00am on Thursday morning, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mike Ikeogwu said, Yahaya polled a total of 436 votes to defeat his rivals Bamidele Atunbi, former National Treasurer of the Union who got 97 votes and Garba Mohammed who scored 39 votes.

The election was conducted at the 8th Triennial Delegates Conference of the Union held in Owerri Imo State, which brought together about Six hundred delegates from the State Councils in the Country.

Also elected unopposed was the Deputy National President, Abimbola Oyetunde, General Manager Radio Nigeria Bronze FM, Edo State and former BOT of the union.

Oyetunde by this feat remains the first female Deputy National President of NUJ.

Other National Officers of the Union elected unopposed are the National Treasurer, Victor Ndukwe, who was the former Abia State Council Chairman, while Ronke Samo was reelected the Vice President of B-Zone (Southwest).

The election conducted amidst tight security, was presided over by the Representative of the NLC President, Joe Ajaero.

Uzodimma To Journalists: Take Steps To Promote Ethical Reporting

The Source

November 28, 2024

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State receives the NUJ Grand Patron Award from the outgoing National Chairman of the body, Comrade Chris Isiguzo and the 18th Triennial Conference held in Owerri.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has advised journalists in Nigeria to take steps to promote ethical reporting as well as the spread of disinformation in the course of discharging their duties.

Also, he has challenged them to use responsible journalism practice to hold those in positions of authority accountable and to promote democracy.

The suggestions were part of the remarks Governor Uzodimma made in his keynote address at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Triennial Conference in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, on Wednesday.

He said that responsible journalism practice is key to development of any society and helps in promoting healthy democratic experience in a country like Nigeria.

He frowned at the dangers which disinformation with its concomitant impact from fake news has caused both the larger society and the media sector, suggesting that it is high time journalists were exposed to different trainings that will equip them with the necessary skills to ethically practice their profession.

Governor Uzodimma brought to the fore how fake news has been used to undermine and malign the integrity of both the country, individuals and even the media, identifying it as a major threat to real journalism practice in our contemporary world.

He congratulated the leadership’s of the NUJ under Comrade Chris Isiguzo for the choice of Imo State for their Conference and urged the journalists to take advantage of their stay in Imo to see for themselves the developmental strides of his administration against what they may have been fed with on the social media as fake news.

He told the NUJ leadership that his government had taken steps to encourage their members in Imo State, reminding them that the idea is to ensure that he helps to bring out the best in them.

Governor Uzodimma’s speech reads:

“It is with profound pleasure that I welcome you all to Owerri for this triennial conference of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.

“Seeing this impressive gathering of journalists here today fills me with a sense of pride. It not only signifies your firm dedication to your profession but also validates the strides we have made in ensuring peace and progress in Imo State. Just a few weeks ago, we had the privilege of hosting the Nigerian Guild of Editors, and now, we are honoured to welcome the NUJ. This clearly shows that Imo State has truly returned to its rightful place as a safe and welcoming destination, the hospitality capital of the East.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation to the National President of the NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, and the Executive Council for choosing Imo State as the venue for this important conference. Comrade President, I know this gathering must feel like a homecoming for you, having launched your esteemed career right here in Imo State. Your leadership has been nothing short of transformative, not just in reforming the Union, but also in elevating the standards of professionalism in journalism.

“I commend you, Comrade Isiguzo, for your outstanding achievements and encourage you to continue supporting the incoming administration to ensure a smooth transition and continued progress.

“Now, the theme of this conference, Media and Democracy: The Journalist’s Role in Holding Leaders Accountable, couldn’t be more relevant. As UNESCO has rightly pointed out, journalism is the bedrock of democratic governance. A free and independent press is necessary for a healthy democracy. It provides a space for open debate, a reliable source of information, and a useful mechanism for holding those in power accountable.

“As we all know, the media plays a multifaceted role in shaping public opinion, encouraging civic engagement, and promoting transparency in government. Nevertheless, Free Press Unlimited has identified four key functions of the media in society, and I think they are worth reiterating:

1) Providing reliable information: In today’s world, where information overload and misinformation are rampant, journalists must be symbols of truth. You must diligently verify facts and provide accurate and unbiased reporting. It is this commitment to truth that builds public trust.

2) Acting as a watchdog: Journalists must be the eyes and ears of the people. They must scrutinise the actions of those in power, fearlessly expose corruption, and hold leaders accountable for their decisions. This watchdog role is important for preventing abuses of power and ensuring that the government truly serves the people.

3) Facilitating democratic discourse: The media must provide a neutral and inclusive platform for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard. It is through encouraging healthy debate and championing informed decision-making that you empower citizens to actively participate in the democratic process.

4) Reflecting society’s diversity: Journalists have a responsibility to reflect the rich diversity of our society, and to ensure that all voices, regardless of their background, are represented and given a platform. This commitment to inclusivity is the way to build a just and equitable society.

“Furthermore, research has consistently shown that a strong local press is particularly effective in holding leaders accountable to their constituents. This means that your work, especially at the grassroots level – what we sometimes call journalism for development or emancipatory journalism – will ensure that those in power remain responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people they represent.

“But let us be honest, journalism today faces some serious challenges, particularly with the rise of social media and the spread of disinformation. While social media has empowered citizens and enabled communication in unprecedented ways, it has also become a breeding ground for disinformation and “fake news.”

“We have all seen how quickly false information can spread, sometimes with devastating consequences. I will give some examples. Do you remember that CNN report in 2011 about weapons being smuggled into Nigeria? It resurfaced during the 2019 elections as if it were current news.

“Again, in the lead-up to our 2019 general elections, the Centre for Democracy and Development published a report warning that fake news was rampant, spreading through social media, traditional media, and even word-of-mouth. The report showed that false information ranged from subtle distortions, like an official claiming 800 companies shut down under Buhari (a story which predated his term), to outlandish claims of Buhari being replaced by a Sudanese clone. This “clone” rumour, originating from a YouTube video, gained such traction that Buhari himself had to publicly deny it.

“You may also recall fake quotes attributed to prominent people just to influence the election. Professor Wole Soyinka was alleged to have said “Buhari has finished fighting corruption, he should step down for Atiku to fight poverty and hunger”. But Prof Soyinka never said so. Former INEC Chairman Professor Attahiru Jega was also alleged to have said “If the current INEC Chairman can emulate me and conduct free and fair elections, nothing will stop Atiku from winning 2019 elections.” But of course, Professor Jega never said so.

“Interestingly, fake news is not deployed only to mislead voters. It can also be used to cause social upheaval. For example, during the 2014 Ebola outbreak, there was a viral message claiming salt-water baths prevented infection. Unfortunately, this led to deaths from excessive salt consumption.

“And who could forget the #EndSARS protests? No doubt, the #EndSARS protests were a powerful demonstration of citizen engagement. However, they were also plagued by misinformation. For instance, in December 2020, two months after the #EndSARS protests, Dubawa published a study analyzing 48 million tweets posted between October 5th and 14th, 2020. This analysis, which included work from four reputable fact-checking organizations (Africa Check, AFP Hub, Dubawa, and People’s Check), revealed that the majority of fact-checked claims about the protests were false. That is deeply disturbing.

“As you may know, I have experienced the harm of fake news firsthand. In 2021, opposition politicians in Imo State cloned the August 27th cover of Thisday Newspaper. They replaced the original headline, “Buhari Elated as NNPC Breaks Jinx, Declares N287bn Profit, First in 44 Years,” with a fabricated one: “Shocking, Uzodimma declares Free Marriage Between Fulani Settlers and Imo Ladies.” As if that was not enough, the same fake publication was recirculated in September this year aiming to damage my reputation and incite ethnic tensions.

“Not too long ago, I was accused on social media of trying to export the gas deposits of Imo State to Europe and America. I know it sounds ridiculous, but it just goes to show the extent to which social media can be used to spread misinformation and defame people.

“Unfortunately, the menace of fake news and disinformation does not spare even the traditional media. Sometimes, these false claims are picked up and presented as anecdotes by anchors and commentators all in the name of analysis.

“I believe these examples highlight the urgent need for media literacy, fact-checking initiatives, and responsible use of social media platforms.

“And then there is the rise of citizen journalism. Yes, citizen journalism can enrich perspectives, but it also raises concerns about professional standards and ethics. We need to ensure that everyone engaged in journalistic activities, whether professional or citizen journalists, adheres to the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and accountability. We must not forget that what identifies a journalist is the ability to check facts.

“The NUJ has an important role to play in dealing with these challenges and upholding the integrity of the journalism profession. I urge you to take proactive steps to promote ethical reporting, combat the spread of disinformation, and ensure that all journalists are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the digital age.

“This might involve strengthening the Nigerian Press Council, investing in training and development programs for journalists, and working closely with social media platforms to address the challenges of the digital terrain.

“Here in Imo State, my administration is fully committed to supporting a free, independent, and thriving press. We have taken concrete steps to demonstrate this commitment. We established the Governor Hope Uzodimma Media Excellence Awards to recognize and celebrate outstanding journalistic work. We have also provided logistical support to various press unions, including the NUJ, NAWOJ, and the Correspondents Chapel, by providing corporate vehicles to facilitate their operations. We believe that a strong and independent media is not only a cornerstone of democracy but also a catalyst for development.

“Therefore, as you deliberate on the theme of this conference, I urge you to think beyond just financial accountability. While it is necessary to hold leaders accountable for the responsible use of public funds, I encourage you to consider the broader responsibilities of leadership. This includes fulfilling campaign promises, upholding human rights and the rule of law, and addressing pressing social issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and inequality.

“In Imo State, we are proud of the progress we have made in delivering tangible benefits to our people. We have embarked on an ambitious infrastructure development program, constructing over 100 roads, a world-class flyover from Maria Assumpta Cathedral, and the magnificent Imo International Conference Centre. These roads, which cut across the state, have improved connectivity and boosted economic activity. We have also made major investments in agriculture, education, and social welfare programs to improve the lives of our citizens. Our hard work has caught the attention of the wider world. As you may have heard, our state was one of only four states in the country to win the coveted Sates Action Business Enabling Reforms (SABER), a programme of the World Bank which earned us a cash award of four million US dollars.

“Although, I am not sure that this positive story has received as much coverage or virality as it should. I am of the view that one effective way to hold leaders to account is to make good news popular after all, the reward for hard work is more work.

“In this light, I invite you to tour our state and see for yourselves the transformative impact of these projects. You will see that Imo State is firmly on the path to progress and prosperity, guided by the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability.

“In closing, I wish you all a successful conference and fruitful deliberations. May your discussions lead to concrete actions that strengthen the media’s role in promoting democracy, upholding accountability, and engendering a more informed and engaged citizenry in Nigeria.

“I wish you all a safe journey back to your respective stations.”

Earlier in his valedictory speech, Isiguzo poured encomia on Governor Uzodimma for being a pillar of support to the NUJ as a body and his tenure in particular, a development they collectively honoured the Governor with the NUJ life patron award

Isiguzo urged the in coming leadership to work hard to surpass his own modest achievements.

While Senator Osita Izunaso (Imo West) though represented, was the Chairman of the event, Prof. Okey Ikechukwu delivered the Triennial lecture – Media and Democracy: The Journalist’s Role in Holding Leaders Accountable.

APGA Chair Crisis: Supreme Court Sacks Njoku, Imposes N60m Fine, Affirms Ezeokenwa

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 27, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The long drawn battle for the soul of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, has been finally settled.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, ruled to recognize the Governor Charles Soludo-backed Sly Ezeokenwa-led National Working Committee, NWC, as the authentic Leader of the party.

This is even as it held that Edozie Njoku had no legal grounds to lay claims to the party’s National Chairmanship position based on the rulings of the Federal High Court Abuja, and the Court of Appeal.

Post 2021 Owerri Convention, Chief Edozie Njoku and Ezeokenwa have been locked in a protracted battle for the APGA National Chairmanship position.

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, had, on March 24, 2023, declared Edozie Njoku as the rightful National Chairman of the party.

The judgment of the trial court which declared Njoku as the APGA National Chairman was also on June 28, 2024, affirmed by the Court of Appeal.

Dissatisfied, Ezeokenwa, backed by the National leader of the party, Governor Soludo decided to approach the Supreme Court

In a unanimous ruling, a five- member panel of the Supreme Court, led by Justice Stephen Adah affirmed Ezeokenwa as the authentic National Chairman of the party after nullifying the earlier efforts of the two lower courts.

The panel of Justices faulted Njoku’s claim to the position based on the march 24, 2023 Court judgment, which was endorsed by the Appeal court.

Justice Adah, in the lead verdict, held that the March 24, 2023, rulaffirmed by the Court of Appeal, and upon which Chief Edozie staked his claims for the National Chairmanship was only declaratory, but not enforceable.

He further held that the said judgment only granted declaratory reliefs to Edozie, but were not executory, and insisted that there were no orders to be enforced.

The panel was of the view that the issues of party leaderships, and/ or who becomes the Chairman of a political party is an internal affair of the political party concerned.

The Supreme Court justices held that internal matters of political parties are issues that are not within the purview of the court to determine.

Consequently, it ruled that it was legally wrong for Njoku to have gone ahead to seek an enforcement of a court ruling that were devoid of executory reliefs

Justice Adah, therefore, berated the lower courts ( trial and Appeal) for declaring Njoku as the Chairman of APGA.

To this end, the Supreme Court declared as null and void the June 28, 2024, Appeal Court verdict that affirmed the earlier ruling of a Federal High Court, Abuja, recognizing Njoku as the National Chairman APGA .

While upholding the appeal filed by Ezeokenwa, the Court also awarded the sum N60 million as costs against Njoku and other respondents in the three adjudicated matters.

Alleged N110bn Fraud: Yahaya Bello In Custody Till December 10

Adesina Soyooye

November 27, 2024

By Adesina Soyooye

Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello has been condemned to the custody of the Economic Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, till December 10, 2024.

That was the ruling of the Honourable Justice Maryann Anenih who fixed the date to decide on the request for Bello by his Lawyer.

When Bello arraigned by the EFCC on Wednesday, after he surrendered to the Commission on Tuesday, he and along with his two co-defendants, pleaded not guilty to the 16 counts of fraud preferred against them by the EFCC.

When the charges were read out to Bello, first defendant, he vehemently denied them one after the other.

As soon as Bello was through with his plea, his lead Counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN filed a bail application.

But Lawyer to the EFCC, Kemi Pinheiro, objected to that and insisted that the bail application for the accused expired in October.

But it was an objection

Daudu rejected and told the Court that the only relevant bail application before it was the one he filed on Bello’s behalf on November 22 which he explained waa supported by an affidavit and a written address.

He pointed out the significance of “Exhibit A,” the public summons, and insisted that his client’s appearance in court confirmed his respect for the law.

The EFCC Lawyer told the Court that the Commission was ready to go on with the trial of Bello and co and called the Commission’s immediately first witness. But Daudu asked for more time. He explained that he had received the charges against Bello at 11 pm on November 26, and so needed more time to prepare.

While arguing for bail, Daudu pointed out that Bello, as a defendant, was entitled to his freedom until found guilty.

He also argued that the EFCC’s objection to the bail was a product of issues from another court and, therefore, should not affect the case before the FCT High Court.

But the EFCC disagreed with Daudu’s argument, and posited that its objection was a product of three grounds: the competence of the application, the factual content, and adherence to judicial principles.

In adjourning the court fixed the matter of bail application on December 10 for a ruling.

The defendant was, therefore ordered to remain in EFCC custody.

The other accused – Umar Shoaib Oricha and Abdulsalami Hudu – had been enjoying the administrative bail granted them by the EFCC.

Why Osun Airport Must Be Relocated – Aviation Expert, Rules Out Political Consideration

Ayodele Oni

November 27, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

An Aviation expert has shed light on the controversy surrounding the relocation of the proposed airport in Osun state from Ido- Osun, to Ede, country home of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The relocation has generated controversy as the people of Ido – Osun, protested and accused the governor of being behind the decision.

The Technical Committee on Aviation has however clarified that the decision was based solely on technical considerations and has no political undertone.

Residents of Ido-Osun’s protest followed an announcement by the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, detailing plans for Adeleke’s second-anniversary celebrations.

Protesters, reportedly gathered at the palace, carried placards with inscriptions such as “Is Adeleke Governor of Ede or Osun State?”

Addressing journalists, Otunba Lai Oriowo, a renowned aviation expert and head of the technical team, explained the rationale behind the relocation. He emphasised that the decision was devoid of political considerations and based entirely on technical evaluations.

“We are technical people and will not delve into political issues. Our focus is on the technical conditions of the Ido-Osun airport site, aviation regulations, and standards set by the International Civil Aviation Authorities.”

Oriowo, who participated in the project’s early planning under former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, outlined the historical context of the project.

He stated: “I recall that several administrations took various steps on this project. The last government even ceded the Ido-Osun site to the Air Force, and there’s documentation to that effect.

“When the new administration came into office, it set up a technical committee to review all issues and make an informed decision. The committee comprises aviation professionals.

According to Oriowo, the committee’s findings regarding the Ido-Osun site include:

“The total area of the site is approximately 3,871,806.34 square metres (387.18 hectares) and the existing 1.67 km runway does not meet the required standard for a full-fledged airport.

“The minimum runway length for a standard airport is 4.8 km, while the required length for a Class 4E aircraft is 5.1 km, including safety areas.

“There is insufficient land at the 04-approach threshold near Adeleke Secondary School and the 22-approach threshold near Oshogbo-Ede bypass to accommodate safety requirements.”

Oriowo noted that these limitations rendered the Ido-Osun site unsuitable for a full-fledged airport, though it would still serve as a training school for the Air Force based on an MOU between the state and the Air Force.

“The technical team, in collaboration with aviation agencies in Abuja, assessed alternative sites in May 2024. After a thorough evaluation, the team recommended Akoda, Ede, as the most suitable location for the airport.

“The state government was advised to proceed with soil testing, an environmental impact assessment, and wind-rose analysis for the Akoda site. It was also directed to prepare a topographical map and a draft design for the proposed airport.”

Oriowo revealed that the perimeter survey of the Akoda site showed a total size of 1,922.111 hectares, with a proposed 5.6 km runway, meeting international standards.

He further disclosed that the state government had paid ₦5.091 million to the Nigerian Meteorological Agency for wind-rose and daily wind analysis, and ₦30 million as fees for the airport design.

“The state government remains committed to ensuring the smooth approval and eventual take-off of this critical infrastructure project.”

It Is Work Free Day, As Akwa Ibom Gov’s Wife Goes Home Friday

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 27, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

As the remains of Mrs Patience Umo Eno, the Wife of the Akwa Ibom State Governor are set to be interred, the state Government has declared Friday, November 29, a work free day .

The Governor’s wife who died on September 26, 2024 will be buried this weekend in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government of the State .

The Peoples Democratic Party PDP, the political platform of her husband, Governor Umo Eno, had last week suspended its National Executive Council meeting which coincided with the burial date to show respect and solidarity

The PDP Governors Forum at its Jos meeting informed that the NEC will hold February 2025.

A statement from the Secretary to the state Government, SSG, Prince Enobong Uwah,

explained that the work-free day is to allow residents of Akwa Ibom pay their last respect to the late First Lady of the State.

“Further to the final home-going programme of our departed First Lady, Her Excellency, Pastor (Mrs) Patience Umo Eno ,the Akwa Ibom.State Government in consultation with the bereaved family has declared Friday 29th November, 2024 ,Work-Free Day in honour of our dear mother .

“This is to enable Akwaibomites and other residents to pay their last respect to our mother at her obsequies in Ikot Ekpene Udo,Nsit Ubium Local Government Area on that day .

“May the gentle soul of our departed First Lady find repose in the bosom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ”, the statement reads.

Osun: Gov Adeleke To Unveil Reformed Five Point Agenda, Showered With Praises

Ayodele Oni

November 27, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

It was a day of commendations for Osun state Governor, Ademola Adeleke as activities marking his midterm stewardship continued on Wednesday.

Various segments of the society among which were the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and League of photo journalists presented awards to the Governor.

Venue of the ceremony in Osogbo, the state capital was filled to capacity with people wearing various types of uniforms specifically earmarked for the event.

A major policy statement made by the governor was the announcement of ease of obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) by prospective land owners in the state.

According to the governor, applicants for the C of O are now to get it within 45 days of request. Describing it as a major step to modernize land administration in the state, Adeleke stated that obtaining the document in the past had been tedious. He gave out some immediately to some people.

An official of the Ministry in charge of the document assured that the Governor, with the new application, will be able to sign the C of O from any part of the world.

According to the official, the present administration inherited 13,000 C of Os awaiting approval of the governor. Some applicants whose certificates have been signed were presented with their documents.

Governor Adeleke thanked the people of the state for their patience and cooperation with the administration, saying he was humbled promising to do more for the people.

He assured that a revised five point agenda of his administration, in which several projects will be unfolded will be flagged off in December.

The governor promised to remain committed to transparency and good government.

Four Children Of Same Parents Abducted In Kaduna

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 27, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The whereabouts of four children of the same parents have become the subject of intense speculations in the Keke area of Kaduna Millennium City.

The children aged 2, 9,12 and 15, reportedly went missing on Tuesday night,November 26.Bandits are strongly linked to their sudden disappearance.

The Source reports that the Kaduna Millennium City Estate, of late, has become a harvest ground for bandits and other criminal elements abducting residents for ransom.

The list of the kidnappings is legion, including the ones involving two Kaduna based journalists with the Nation and Blue Print Newspapers along side their family members earlier on in the year.

Yunusa Sarkin Samarin Keke, the distraught father of the missing children, said the incident occurred at about 9.00 pm, Tuesday when he was away on a visit to his hospitalized newly born twins.

He explained that the twins after developing some ailments were taken to the hospital with their mother taking care of them .

According to him, he only came back from the hospital to discover that her three biological daughters ,and a two year old orphan who is staying with them were nowhere to be found.

He noted that he saw shoes and other personal effects of the children litter close by the gate

“I was not at home ,when the incident occurred because I was visiting my wife who is taking care of our sick newly born twins at the hospital.

“I left the children at home, including the two year old boy, and the sisters that night only to return home and discover that they were missing .

“I am suspecting that it was kidnappers that took them away. But I have not been contacted by anybody”, Samarin Keke volunteered.

He informed that it was only his residence that was invaded by the suspected abductors on the night.

As at the time of reporting, neither the Police nor the Kaduna state authorities has reacted to the development.

Nigeria Records Zero Piracy In 3yrs-Oyetola

Tosin Olatokunbo

November 27, 2024

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, CON has declared that a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy is essential for the development of the Nigerian maritime sector. He stated this while declaring open a stakeholders validation session aimed at developing the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy in Nigeria.

Oyetola emphasized that the National Policy will create a sustainable pathway for economic growth in fisheries, aquaculture, renewable energy, tourism, and seabed mining, while also ensuring environmental sustainability. He further noted the need for a robust National Policy to address challenges in the sector, including environmental degradation and illegal activities such as Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.

In his words “A robust National Policy will ensure that we address these issues through a comprehensive framework that aligns with international best practices while safeguarding our marine resources for future generations”.

“It is worth noting that Nigeria has achieved notable progress in maritime governance, including the ratification and domestication of international protocols and conventions. These measures have strengthened our safety and security framework, resulting in a remarkable three-year period with zero incidents of piracy in our waters. Nonetheless, the recurring boat mishaps underscore the pressing need for immediate action.

This policy seeks to implement comprehensive strategies to ensure the safety of all waterways. However, challenges such as the recent spate of boat mishaps demand urgent attention. Consequently, this policy aims to establish comprehensive measures that will enhance safety across our waterways.

As we develop this policy, the Ministry remains committed to repositioning Nigeria as a dominant player in the marine and blue economy, both regionally and globally. We are also pursuing Nigeria’s candidacy for election to Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), which underscores our determination to strengthen our voice in global maritime governance”.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olufemi Oloruntola, noted that the validation workshop is a key step in shaping the National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy—a framework designed to address Nigeria’s specific needs and aspirations while embracing sustainable development principles. “It provides an opportunity for stakeholders to review, refine, and enrich the draft policy through a participatory and inclusive approach,” he said.

Uzodinma To Sign MOU with UAE On Livestocks Finished Products At Achara Ugbo Farms

The Source

November 27, 2024

Hope Uzodimma - Imo State Governor — Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.:

Governor Hope Uzodimma has commended the pace of ongoing work on health, road, bridge and other critical infrastructure projects at different locations in Imo State, stressing that they are in sync with his administration’s plan to reset Imo State for prosperity.

The ongoing projects include the late Engineer Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre, the Assumpta Cathedral roundabout bridge, the Banana Junction to Eziachi road in Orlu, the new Government House Annex in Orlu and the Seplat Energy and Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited joint venture health facility at the Imo State University Teaching Hospital Orlu.

Speaking to newsmen at the Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Orlu Tuesday, where he led a team of stakeholders and government officials to inspect the ongoing work on a key health facility, Governor Uzodimma thanked the federal government for finding Imo State worthy to host the project which is meant to serve the health needs of people from the South East.

He described the facility as world-class where all manner of diseases would be treated, in addition to serving as a support facility to the Teaching Hospital where it is located.

Governor Uzodimma who thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Seplat Energy and NNPCL for the kind approval for the facility, and its funding, noted that it would go a long way, when completed, to bridge the infrastructure gap in Imo State in particular and the South East in general.

He further explained that the health project will also help in the recovering of the destruction meted to the town by criminal elements through their nefarious activities in Orlu.

On his assessment of work so far done on all the projects he inspected, Governor Uzodimma expressed satisfaction that the contractors have achieved between 70 percent and 80 percent completion of the work, an indication that their commissioning is by the corner.

Governor Uzodimma, hinted, for instance, that baring any unforeseen circumstances, the Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road will be ready for commissioning by February 2025 by the President.

He reiterated his administration’s preparedness to connect the whole Imo State with accessible roads that will, not just link them together easily, but make it possible for the rural dwellers who are predominantly farmers, to have value for their produce when they get to the markets of their choice for transactions.

Governor Uzodimma explained that the One Town State concept that has necessitated the construction of a Government House Annex in Orlu and another one to be built in Okigwe, with the attendant excellent road connectivity, will also make it possible for workers to access their work place easily whether they choose to operate from Orlu, Okigwe or Owerri.

He described the experience from the inspection as worth the while and a “strategic way of letting Imo people know that we are not idle, but working tirelessly to meet our set target.”

The Governor said that nothing will dissuade him from taking steps to implement policies and programmes, either in the area of roads, health, power, education, youth empowerment, among others, which will enhance the livelihood of Imo people.

He therefore hinted that he is about signing a Memorandum of Understanding with livestock experts from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) who will help to bring to the fore, the potentials and value chain in the livestock production at Achara Ugbo Farms in Emekeuku, near Owerri.

Governor Uzodimma promised to make this year’s Christmas festival more memorable and better for Imo people than that of the previous year.

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