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Adopt Okpara’s Leadership Model And Prosper, Uzodimma Urges Nigerian Leaders

August 23, 2024

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has said that more prosperity and good governance await Nigeria if the leaders adopt the Michael Okpara Leadership model that excelled in selfless service, agriculture and industrialisation.

Governor Uzodimma made the submission on Thursday while speaking at the Michael Okpara Leadership Prize awards in Abuja.

The Governor spoke on the topic: Service Above Self: Lessons from the Leadership Philosophy of Dr Michael Okpara.

He noted that Okpara was able to make the Eastern Region ‘s economy the fastest growing one in Africa because of his leadership model.

“Perhaps, if only our political leaders of today could emulate the leadership virtues of Dr Michael Okpara, our country would be better and more prosperous,” he submitted.

He noted that those virtues were characterised by selfless service, integrity, vision and inclusivity, which brought about rapid growth in the region.

Governor Uzodimma who was also bestowed with the Premier’s Grand Prize, Gold Plaque Category award by the organisers, challenged Nigerians leaders to concentrate more on rendering selfless service rather than pursuing personal aggrandisement.

He also called for a greater commitment to the development of the country by Nigerians themselves, instead of mere passing of bucks.

The Governor expressed optimism that Nigeria would attain its full potential when the citizens display unparallel patriotism as demonstrated by the late Premier of Eastern Region.

“Okpara’s legacies will continue to inspire not just our generation but generations to come.”

Governor Uzodimma commended the organisers for the lecture series, a way of keeping Okpara’s legacies alive.

However, he regretted that Okpara has not been properly honoured by Nigeria.

“In my view, Okpara remains a hero in Nigeria who has not been properly sung,” he said.

In his remarks at the occasion, Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Otu described Okpara as his hero because of the monumental development he achieved in the former Eastern Region.

According to Governor Otu, most of the agricultural policies being implemented by his administration in Cross River State were derived from the legacies of Okpara.

The Chairman on the occasion and former Senate President, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim praised the organisers for keeping the memory of the late Premier alive.

Senator Anyim also eulogised Governor Uzodimma for his thought-provoking lecture and urged Nigerians to imbibe the recommendations therefrom.

The ceremony was attended by the Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, former Governor of Cross River State, Sir Clement Ebri, industrialist, Chief Arthur Eze and prominent political figures and traditional rulers.

Killings In Kaduna Community: Army To Unravel Level Of Personnel Involvement

Suleiman Anyalewechi

August 22, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigeria Army has announced that it will institute a full scale investigation to unravel the true circumstances surrounding the alleged killings of some locals and cattle by Soldiers at a market in Igabi Kaduna state

The Source reports that Locals in Sabon Birnin, Igabi Local Council of Kaduna State, on Sunday August, 18, 2024, accused some Military Personnel of invading a cattle market in their community.

They alleged that in the course of the invasion, no fewer than three persons and about 100 cattle were killed by the invading soldiers.

The development has since sparked a flurry of condemnation from so many quarters.

But reacting on Thursday August 22, Director, Army Public Relations Onyema Nwachukwu ,a Major General, noted that the Army, in line with its mandate of protecting lives and properties of the people, can not be seen to be doing otherwise.

In a statement, the Army Spokesman informed that the Chief of Army Staff has directed an investigation to ascertain the remote and immediate causes of the unfortunate incident.

The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to a disturbing news report with gory pictures /video footages published in some mainstream and social media platforms alleging that troops of 1 Division annihilated 3 persons some cattle during a recent operation at Sabon Birni in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna state.

“While the Nigerian Army wishes to sympathize with Sabon Birni Community and families of the affected persons, we, also, wish to state that the allegation will be thoroughly investigated and any personnel found culpable will be appropriately sanctioned.

“We, therefore, appeal for calm and assure the general public that the outcome of the investigation will also be made public”, General Nwachukwu stated.

NNPC Not Into Partisan Politics – Management

Ayodele Oni

August 22, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

The Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC) Ltd. has maintained that it should not be dragged into partisan politics as it remains focus on adding value to the nation.

In a reaction to claims by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that NNPC has been hijacked by cronies of President Bola Tinubu, it stated that “We are a commercially-focused and profit-driven company managed by professionals who are committed to adding value to the nation.”

In a statement by Olufemi Soneye

Chief Corporate Communications Officer, it added that “Investment decisions by NNPC Ltd. Management are strictly determined on the basis of commercial viability and national interest.

“As a businessman, the former Vice President should know that effectiveness in business leadership is best measured by balance sheets and bottom lines rather than pedestrian considerations.

“The management of NNPC Ltd., under the leadership of Mr. Mele Kyari, has done very well in growing the company’s fortunes as shown in the 2023 Audited Financial Statement (AFS), where it reported N3.3 trillion as profit after tax.

“NNPC Ltd. as a commercial entity is devoid of political interest and shall continue to conduct its business full of commitment to national interest and value creation for the benefit of all stakeholders.

“NNPC Ltd. shall resist any attempt to draw its Board and Management into partisan politics.”

Nigerian Woman Gives Birth Aboard Qatar Airline Flight To Brazil

Akinwale Kasali

August 22, 2024

Nigerian Woman Gives Birth Aboard Qatar Airline Flight To Brazil

By Akinwale Kasali

Oyindamola Akinyera has become a household name following her surprise delivery of a Baby Girl while aboard a flight from Lagos State, Nigeria, to Brazil.

She delivered the baby while aboard a Qatar Airways flight with her husband, David.

In a statement released on her official social media handle yesterday, Akinyera narrated that she began to experience pregnancy complications hours aboard the flight after being cleared by medical experts to embark on the journey to the South American country.

She said: “A few hours later, we get to Doha, explore the grounds; everything is great, and we’re having the best time.. until we get on the connecting flight to Brazil.

“Few hours into the flight, I started having what I thought were regular pregnancy backaches. I had been flying for hours, so it made sense. I thought it was something sleep could fix since we had hours till landing. The air hostesses gave me the princess treatment, laid my bed and I was ready to finally snooze.

“The waves of discomfort continued in my lower back, and to be safe, I had one of the air hostesses take my vitals. We were good. No signs of labour!”

She added that as they were crossing the Atlantic, she felt heavily constipated and needed to use the restroom, so she asked her husband to come with her.

“Next thing, I take one big push and I pee instead—or so I thought. My water had broken. I didn’t even realize I was in labour. I just kept saying, ‘I need to sleep’ and would casually nod off (mid-labour?)

“The pains kept waking me up, and the Qatar airlines air hostesses (my personal midwives) sprung into action,” she wrote.

Adeyera noted that, with the help of a fellow passenger who happened to be a doctor, the air hostesses quickly assessed the situation and realised that she was indeed in labour.

“They set up a whole birthing station for me at the plane entrance. Everything was happening so fast, and all I was thinking is that I would have to hold on till we landed to have this baby!

“They asked if there was any doctor on board, and a doctor called Carolina walked up to us and is like ‘I deliver babies.’ What in the movie scene?

“Dr Carolina checks me, tells me I’m fully dilated, and the baby is ready to come. At this point, we’re in the Brazilian airspace and about 40 minutes from landing,” Akinyera explained.

As the contractions intensified, she said her husband kept praying intensely, holding her hand, and coaching her through the process.

“The contractions kick in, and I’m pushing in my makeshift birthing station with my husband on one side, praying intensely. Midway, I got tired and told them I couldn’t do it anymore, and my God-sent Qatar airlines crew (aka midwives) prayed over me and encouraged me to keep going.

“Twenty minutes before landing, God blessed us with the most precious baby girl,” she wrote.

Adeyera added that they landed in Brazil safely and headed straight to the hospital, “where the beautiful baby girl and I are doing great.”

“David and I’s hearts are filled with immense joy. I have seen God move countless times in my life, but this one beats all others. I had a supernatural birth, and it’s all thanks to God Almighty,” the new mum concluded.

Edo Deputy Governorship: Omobayo Shuns Court Of Appeal Judgement, Says He’s Still Number Two

Ayodele Oni

August 22, 2024

Omobayo Marvellous Godwins - New Edo Deputy Governor

By Ayodele Oni

Despite the ruling of the Court of Appeal which affirmed Philip Shuaibu as the deputy governor of Edo state, Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, appointed by Governor Godwin Obaseki as his replacement has insisted that he remains the legitimate number two official of the state.

He vowed on Thursday to continue to carry out his duties as mandated by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The appellate court had ruled in an appeal filed by the state House of Assembly to challenge the lower court judgement which nullified the impeachment of Shuaibu that the action was illegal.

Omobayo made this statement during a solidarity visit from the leadership and members of the three recognized transport unions in Edo State.

He emphasized that ongoing legal challenges related to his office have not deterred him from his responsibilities and expressed his dedication to supporting Governor Godwin Obaseki in achieving economic growth and transformation for Edo State.

He also extended his gratitude to the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the Edo State Drivers Welfare Scheme for their steadfast support and loyalty since he took office.

Earlier, Monday Orhue, Chairman of RTEAN, and Chief Odion Olaye, Chairman of NURTW, explained that the unions organized the visit to demonstrate their full backing for Governor Obaseki and reaffirm Omobayo’s status as the legitimate Deputy Governor of Edo State.

Chief Olaye expressed confidence that the Obaseki administration would conclude successfully and strongly.

“We Will Not Tolerate Removal Of Democratically Elected Government” – FG

Ayodele Oni

August 22, 2024

Lateef Fagbemi - AGF — Prince Lateef Fagbemi, AGF

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Government has sounded a note of warning to Nigerians not to embark on subversive activities capable of truncating the present administration.

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, (SAN), warned that the Federal Government would not tolerate removal of the democratically elected government under whatever guise.

Fagbemi affirmed that government will promote and uphold the fundamental rights of all citizens, but insisted that any infraction or breach of same rights by any person or organization under any guise except as stipulated by the constitution would be condoned.

The AGF pointed out that the present administration has a clear mandate of the people, and can only be changed at the end its tenure as prescribed by the constitution.

Fagbemi, spoke on Thursday, at the valedictory court session in honour of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired on August 22, having attained the mandatory retirement age of 70 years.

According to Fagbemi, any other mode or attempt to change a democratically elected government except as provided by the constitution, is nothing but a clear case of treason and subversion of democratic governance.

The AGF pointed out that the laws of the land have made copious provisions on how to deal with treasonable acts, stressing that the full wrath of the law will catch up with such treasonable felony.

He reassured that the Federal Government is irrevocably committed to massively changing the course of narratives within the country’s justice sector.

The Justice Minister said with the massive turn around being put in place by the present administration, the justice sector will be given a place of pride it deserves.

Specifically, the AGF assured that the federal government will eradicate all forms of obstacles militating against the modernization, effectiveness and efficiency of the justice sector.

He added that with the recent 300 percent salary increment for judicial officers, the efforts of government will enhance and promote the Judiciary as the last hope of the common man.

Fagbemi thanked the Supreme Court for rescuing Local Governments in Nigeria from the claws of governors.

The AGF called on Attorneys General of States in the country to advise their various governors to obey the judgment of the Supreme Court on the financial autonomy for Local Government Areas in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Ariwoola, as he retired as Chief Justice of Nigeria after a successful public service career.

Justice Ariwoola had served as Justice of the Court of Appeal in Kaduna, Enugu, and Lagos divisions before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2011.

He was sworn in as Chief Justice of Nigeria in 2022 and had also served the nation in diverse capacities as a judicial officer.

President Tinubu commended the eminent jurist for his services to the nation, noting his impactful leadership of the judiciary and his efforts in enriching Nigerian jurisprudence, as well as in strengthening the fibre of the law.

The President thanked Justice Ariwoola and wishes him the very best for the future.

Presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngalele announced that President Tinubu will swear in Justice Ariwoola’s successor at the State House Council Chambers on Friday.

Justice Ariwoola Says Too Much Burden On Supreme Court, Bows Out As CJN

Ayodele Oni

August 22, 2024

By Ayodele Oni

Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, on Thursday, retired as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 for judicial Officers.

He left with an advice that measures should be put in place to reduce the burden on the Supreme Court.

According to him, there are too many cases before the apex court which ought to have terminated at the appellate court.

Justice Ariwoola spoke at a valedictory session in his honour at the Supreme Court in Abuja.

He pointed out that access to justice has contributed largely to the delay in the hearing of cases as litigants and lawyers are forced to wait for several years to have their cases decided.

Justice Ariwoola explained that the right to a fair hearing can only be guaranteed when lawyers and litigants do not have to wait for so long to have their cases heard.

He also stressed the need for the bench to have more judicial officers to adjudicate on all matters timeously.

Vice President Kashim Shettima was among dignitaries who attended the public presentation of a book titled, ‘Judging With Justice’, written in Ariwoola’s honour.

The event was held at the International Conference Centre Abuja, a few hours after the official retirement of Justice Ariwoola.

Guests at the occasion include the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike; and Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who was recommended to President Bola Tinubu by the National Judicial Council to take over from Justice Ariwoola, as well as Justices of the Supreme and Appeal Courts.

Reps Renewable Energy Comte Hosts Nat’l Policy Workshop, Appoints Consultant

James Orji

August 22, 2024

The House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy, has disclosed plans to host a national policy workshop in November.

The Workshop with the theme, ‘Renew Nigeria: Unlocking Nigeria’s Energy Future’, will be co-hosted by the office of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abass Tajudeen and other key stakeholders.

This is contained in a statement issued by the Chairman of the Committee, Afam Victor Ogene, in Abuja, on Thursday, August 22, 2024, which also announced the appointment of Mr. Promise Amahah, CEO of Green Clean Innovation Hub, as the Principal Consultant to the Committee for a three-year tenure.

Ogene said the primary objective of the National Renewable Energy Policy Workshop, RENEW NIGERIA, is to convene key stakeholders from within and outside Nigeria, government, private sector, academia, and civil society to collaboratively develop and refine policies that will accelerate the adoption and expansion of renewable energy in Nigeria.

The workshop, according to him, “Seeks to facilitate a multi-stakeholder dialogue on Nigeria’s renewable energy future;
Identify and address policy gaps hindering the growth of renewable energy; Develop a comprehensive policy framework to drive renewable energy adoption; Foster collaboration and partnerships to support renewable energy development; and Enhance capacity and knowledge sharing among stakeholders, among others.

“By bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, RENEW NIGERIA aims to create a unified vision and roadmap for Nigeria’s transition to a sustainable and renewable energy-powered future,” Ogene said.

On the appointment of a consultant to enhance the work of the Committee, the chairman said,”Mr. Amahah brings a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of renewable energy, having led numerous successful initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable energy solutions and climate-smart technologies. His leadership at Green Clean Innovation Hub has been instrumental in advancing innovative projects that align with Nigeria’s commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

“As Principal Consultant, Mr. Amahah will provide strategic guidance and technical support to the Committee, ensuring the effective implementation of renewable energy policies and programmes. His role will be pivotal in driving forward the Committee’s agenda to enhance energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and foster economic growth through sustainable energy practices.”

Amahah’s appointment underscores the Committee’s commitment to leveraging top-tier expertise to address the pressing energy challenges facing Nigeria. His tenure will focus on key areas such as expanding renewable energy infrastructure, promoting public-private partnerships, and enhancing capacity-building initiatives within the sector.

Amahah expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve in this capacity as he said he’s looking forward to collaborating with the Committee and other stakeholders to drive impactful change and advance Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape.”

The National Assembly House of Representatives Committee on Renewable Energy remains dedicated to fostering a sustainable energy future for Nigeria, and the appointment of Mr. Promise Amahah marks a significant step towards achieving this vision

Killing Of 30 Alleged Autopilots Turned-Kidnappers: “We Have Nothing To Do With Ekpa’s Group” – IPOB

Suleiman Anyalewechi

August 22, 2024

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Leadership of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra IPOB has taken strong exception to the tendencies to associate the alleged criminal activities of Autopilots Militia, led by Simon Ekpa, with the genuine agitations of the group.

It has, therefore, cautioned the Enugu State Government and Security Agencies to resist the temptation of confusing the criminal activities of the group with the philosophies of the Mazi Nnamdi Kanu-led freedom and justice seeking-IPOB.

Only on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, the Enugu state Government and security agencies announced the neutralization of no fewer than 30 kidnap lords ,whom they claimed were members of the IPOB led by the Finland based Ekpa .

The Source reports that Governor Peter Mba Media Team, in a statement, informed that a crack special security team set up by the State Government has, in the last two weeks, taken the battles to kidnappers den, most of whom they insisted were the foot soldiers of the Ekpa-led IPOB.

Rising from a security council meeting early last month ,security agencies in Enugu State had, apart from declaring the State a no-go-area for sit-at-home enforcers and other criminal elements, also, vowed to deal ruthlessly with persons and/or groups bent on disrupting the peace of Enugu State.

But in a statement issued on Thursday, August 22, IPOB Spokesperson Emma Powerful, denied the existence of Autopilot militia within the structure of IPOB.

He maintained that the group ,as led by Ekpa, has no iota of connection with the genuine agitations of the Kanu led-IPOB and the Eastern Security Network ESN.

“The global family and movement of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra IPOB, led by the great and indomitable leader, Mazi Nnamdi Okwuchukwu Kanu, wish to debunk the fabricated and fallacious news peddled by the Enugu state Governor’s media office, which claims that the Nigeria Police neutralized 27 kidnappings gangs of ESN members loyal to the Finland based buffoon at various locations in Enugu State.

“This claim is not only false, but also a cheap propaganda against IPOB and ESN .According to reports from media outlets ,the Enugu state Governor’s media office claimed that Nigeria police neutralized 27 criminals and kidnappers within two weeks at various locations in the state .

“The Nigeria police and Enugu State Government alleged that some of the criminals were pro-Biafra agitators loyal to the Finland based double agent .

“Why then do they associate these criminals with the noble IPOB family? In their usual malicious intent ,the Nigeria Government bodies have claimed that these so-called neutralize neutralized criminals were ESN operatives loyal to Autopilot IPOB .

“For a long time ,IPOB has maintained that there is no such entity as Autopilot in IPOB . More over ,the criminal gang leader in Finland has no relationship with ESN from its formation to date and or with IPOB .

“Kidnappers have nothing in common with IPOB ,ESN or Biafra struggle ” part of the statement reads .

World Bank, Ondo Govt Set To Extend Health Facilities To 203 Electoral Wards

Ayodele Oni

August 22, 2024

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and AiAjana Afa-Okeagbe Akoko

By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State is going into a partnership with the World Bank to provide facilities in 203 electoral wards in the State to support primary healthcare delivery to the people at the grassroots.

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, disclosed this on Thursday during the presentation of Instrument of Appointment and Staff of Office to the new Ajana Afa-Okeagbe Akoko, Oba Mofolorunso Arasanyin, in Akoko North West Local Government Area.

The Governor explained that the World Bank-sponsored project, which has the counterpart funding from the state government, will take healthcare delivery closer to rural dwellers and reduce pressure on secondary and tertiary health facilities.

According to him, the new facilities in the 203 wards will complement the primary health centres across the 18 local government areas of the State.

Aiyedatiwa added that the funds needed for the project have been deployed and contractors being assembled for the implementation stage.

This, he said, is in addition to other efforts to improve the health sector including the ongoing recruitment of health workers.

The Governor also reeled out some of the efforts of his administration including ongoing recruitment of teachers, support for farmers, enhancing security, improving infrastructure and promoting the welfare of workers.

Congratulating the people of the community on the peaceful selection of their new monarch, the Governor noted the historical importance of the Ajana stool, which became vacant following the passing of Oba Oladunjoye Fajana in February 2023.

“I commend the kingmakers for their sincere and invaluable roles in the emergence of the new monarch. This demonstrates their commitment to the welfare and development of Afa, Oke-Agbe.

“While we strive to promote and enhance the position of our traditional rulers, it is expected that the government’s efforts will be reciprocated through actions that support and complement our initiatives.”

Urging the new Ajana to use his position to foster unity, peace, and development within his domain, Governor Aiyedatiwa underscored the significance of traditional institutions in mobilizing communities for positive development.

In his response, the newly installed Oba Mofolorunso Arasanyin, expressed gratitude to the governor and the State Executive Council for their support for his appointment as a “Grade A” Oba.

He described the appointment as a significant achievement and pledged to work collaboratively with the community to harness its cultural, social, and economic potentials.

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