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Ariwoola Retires as CJN

by Folarin Kehinde August 22, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Justice Olukayode Ariwoola on Thursday, 22nd August, 2024, retired as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

Leading reporters gathered that Ariwoola retired upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70.

Justice Ariwoola was born on 22 August 1954. On 22 November 2011, he was elevated to the bench of the Supreme Court and was appointed substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria on 27 June 2022.

Justice Ariwoola was formally confirmed as the CJN by the Nigerian Senate on 21 September 2022.

Prior to his retirement, the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice Of Nigeria (CJN) to take over from Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

This medium reports Kekere-Ekun was recommended to President Bola Tinubu for appointment as the new CJN at the 106th meeting of the NJC, held on August 14 and 15 and presided over by Ariwoola.

The Council also recommended 27 candidates for appointment as judges of state courts and a candidate for appointment as Kadi of the Sharia Court of the FCT, Abuja, to their various governors and the President.

These developments were confirmed by the spokesman for the NJC, Soji Oye, in a statement last week Thursday.

Should Justice Kekere-Ekun take over as the new CJN as expected after Ariwoola’s retirement, she would become the second female justice in Nigeria to hold the exalted position after Mariam Aloma Mukhtar, who was CJN between July 2012 and November 2014.

The 66-year-old Kekere-Ekun is the most senior justice of the Supreme Court after Ariwoola, and is favoured to clinch the position.

August 22, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

BREAKING: Bandits storm Niger State Mining Site, Kill 12, Kidnap Many

by Folarin Kehinde August 22, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Suspected bandits have stormed a mining site in Unguwar Magero village, Gurmana ward of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, killing some people and kidnapping many.

The attack has resulted in the loss of at least 12 lives although many more are feared dead.

Eyewitnesses report that the bandits descended upon the miners, opening fire indiscriminately.

The attack is the latest in a string of violent incidents in the region, with bandits kidnapping an unspecified number of people in Bassa community, also within Shiroro Local Government Area, just a day earlier.

Niger State Acting Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, has condemned the attacks, describing them as “satanic, insensible, atrocious, and callous.”

He expressed his condolences to the affected families and communities, praying for the souls of the departed and quick healing for those injured.

“He says it is very disheartening and disturbing for fellow humans to carry out such a barbaric and vicious act on their fellow humans.

“The Acting Governor, while commiserating with the affected families, community members and the entire people of Shiroro local government area over the unfortunate incident, prays Allah to repose the souls of the departed, comfort their loved ones and grant quick healing to those injured.

“He restated the Bago-led administration’s unwavering determination and commitment to taming the tide of insecurity in the State even as he encourages the Security Agencies not to be discouraged by the attacks on communities by the men of the underworld, assuring them of every support that would lead them to victory over evil,” a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, said.

August 22, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

“Gloria Akobundu must go” AUDA-NEPAD staff cries out amidst financial mismanagement claims

by Folarin Kehinde August 22, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Staff members of the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) on Wednesday called for the sacking of its National Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer Princess Gloria Akobundu.

The protesting staff who spoke with newsmen accused Akobundu of financial mismanagement, poor welfare and sane working environment condition for them.

The protester displayed placard bearing various inscriptions such as : “Princess Gloria Akobundu must go, enough is enough, “NEPAD is not a private sector “ She sold all utility Vehicles without replacement “ No working materials and the working environment is not conducive, among many others .

The convener of the protest Aliyu Abubakar explained that protest is against maladministration, financial mismanagement and not allowing staff to carry out their official duties and functions.

He explained that this alleged corruption has been happening for the past 8 years since the assumption of office by the CEO.

He alleged that consultants are employed to carry out duties meant for the staff, adding that there are no working material or a conducive working environment for staffs.

He said,” Well, the motive behind this protest is simple. It’s about financial mismanagement and not allowing staff to carry out their official duties and functions, so that is why we are here.

“Let me start by explaining about not allowing staff to carry out their official duties, like I said earlier, we are all staff, as you can see, this is NEPAD Nigeria. That is new partnership for African development, and we know it is a federal government establishment. It’s not a private organization, and in a situation whereby a staff of this establishment will not be allowed to carry out his official duty. I think it’s wrong, because we are being employed and we are being paid salary to come and carry out our official duties

“ But instead of that, it is outsiders and sometimes consultants that will be doing the job. That is why we’re here to tell the whole world, because for the past eight years, under the leadership of Princess Gloria Akobundu, this has been happening, and it’s not as if we are not been drawing her attention.

“We have been drawing her attention. We have written to her. We have been advising but all in vain. That is why we decided to take the bull by the horn, to come together, so that at least if maybe she think we are not the people that appoint her, but she has the principal, she was appointed by a president, and we are using this opportunity to send this message to His Excellency, President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to come to our aid, so that he can know what is going on in this organization for the past eight years.

“No, this protest is two days for now, today and tomorrow is just for two days. But if after these two days, we didn’t get any positive result, then we are going to proceed with the next line of action, which is we are going to the National Assembly and we are going to the office of the secretary to the government of the Federation, because this office is under SGF, because the SGF is the national focal point of NEPAD Nigeria, then we are going to head of Service, National Assembly so that they will hear what are going through.

“We want the federal government to call her to order that she should allow NEPAD staff to function.Let us do what we are employed to do.

“All the programs and all the money that the federal government is bringing to this organization, for us to carry programs and project, let them carry out those programs and project, there is international donation that always come from NEPAD Continental. For the past eight years, nobody know what they have been doing with that, because, from our findings, it has been going to a private account.

“So we want the federal government to use this we are using this opportunity. We are calling on, Mr. President, irrelevant authorities to please come to our aid .

Meanwhile, Princess Gloria Akobundu could not be reached as at press time.

August 22, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Celebration As Ibom Air Acquires Second Airbus

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 21, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

On August 20, 2024, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, presided over a historic event at the Victor Attah International Airport, marking the arrival and dedication of Ibom Air’s second Airbus A220-300.

The occasion was celebrated with a grand reception ceremony, highlighting another significant achievement for Ibom Air, the state-owned airline.

Governor Eno expressed his deep gratitude to his predecessors, particularly Obong Victor Attah and Udom Emmanuel, for their visionary leadership in establishing the Victor Attah International Airport and Ibom Air.

He acknowledged their contributions to the state’s aviation sector, noting that the acquisition of a second Airbus A220-300 is a remarkable achievement worthy of celebration.

Governor Eno paid tribute to his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, for his unwavering commitment to the vision that led to the establishment of Ibom Air, and for overcoming the challenges and criticisms that accompanied the project’s inception.

He extended his gratitude to Ibom Air for putting Akwa Ibom on the international aviation map and for its dedication to excellence, earning it the reputation as Nigeria’s most preferred airline.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

“I Will Remain in PDP Till the End” – Wike

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 21, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, has reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating unequivocally that he has no plans to leave the party.

During a press briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike declared his readiness to confront the challenges within the PDP, referring to his adversaries as “vampires” and emphasizing his determination to stay and fight for what he believes in.

Wike dismissed speculation about joining the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he conducts his actions openly and would not secretly switch parties. He emphasized his loyalty to the PDP and his willingness to face any challenges that come his way.

“I don’t back down from any fight. I will stay in the PDP and face whatever comes. Who do I have to run from? The vampires?” Wike stated, underscoring his resolve to remain in the party.

Wike also highlighted his past actions as evidence of his integrity, recalling how he openly refused to support the PDP’s presidential candidate. He emphasized that if he wanted to join the APC, he would do so openly.

Wike criticized those who question his loyalty, suggesting that they lack the integrity he values. “People should be known for something. Integrity is crucial. Those who are talking are just scared of my presence,” he concluded, asserting his commitment to staying in the PDP.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

FG unveils power sector communications team

by Folarin Kehinde August 21, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

The Federal Government has inaugurated the Power Sector Communications Team in a bid to enhance transparency and communication within the power sector.

The inauguration ceremony, held at the Power House in Abuja, was presided over by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, who emphasised the importance of effective communication in addressing the sector’s challenges.

This was disclosed in a statement by the Chairman, PSCT Bolaji Tunji, on Wednesday.

In his speech, Chief Adelabu described the PSCT as a “strategic initiative designed to bridge the gap between the power sector and the public.”

He noted that the power sector, which is often misunderstood and fraught with challenges, requires a platform for clear and consistent communication to build trust and confidence.

“The PSCT is more than just a team; it is a commitment to excellence in communication,” the Minister stated.

“We envision a Nigeria where electricity is not just a luxury but a fundamental right. To achieve this, we must work together, and effective communication is key,” he added.

The PSCT, as outlined by Adelabu, will focus on translating complex technical issues into plain language, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and creating a positive narrative around the power sector.

“I am confident that under the leadership of its dedicated members, the PSCT will excel,” he said, adding, “Together, we will transform the power sector from a source of frustration to a catalyst for national growth.”

The Chairman of the PSCT, Bolaji Tunji, expressed his enthusiasm about the team’s reactivation, noting that while the idea of the PSCT is not new, its revival marks a renewed commitment to addressing communication challenges in the sector.

“It gladdens my heart that the Power Sector Communications Team is being inaugurated today. Our vision is to transform the perception of the power sector by providing consistent, truthful, and insightful information that highlights the ongoing progress and challenges within the sector,” he said.

Tunji highlighted several strategic initiatives that the PSCT will undertake, including a nationwide campaign focused on educating the public on critical power sector issues such as energy theft and vandalisation.

“Our goal is to empower citizens with the knowledge to understand their roles in safeguarding our power infrastructure and to inspire collective action against these harmful practices,” he explained.

The Chairman also stressed the importance of stakeholder engagement, noting that regular dialogues, workshops, and forums will be organised to foster better understanding and cooperation among all players in the power sector value chain.

“This engagement is crucial in ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned in their efforts to provide reliable and affordable electricity to the Nigerian people,” Tunji stated.

In his remarks, Tunji underscored the need for adequate funding and inclusion of the communication team in all relevant activities within the Ministry and its agencies.

“Communication is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a must-have for a public utility organisation like ours. I want to appeal to us to commit to communication that is clear, concise, compassionate, and customer-centric,” he added.

The inauguration of the PSCT is seen as a critical step towards improving transparency and building public trust in Nigeria’s power sector.

As the Minister concluded, “By working together, we can create a brighter, more electrified future for Nigeria.”

The coordinator of the Power Sector Communications Team Magdalene Abang, stated that PSCT is committed to fostering a positive narrative around the power sector and building public trust in the government’s efforts to achieve sustainable energy access.

Abang while appreciating the minister stated that the guidance of the minister has been instrumental to enhancing communication within the sector and promote public understanding of power sector issues.

“We are particularly grateful to the Minister of Power for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for the PSCT. Your guidance and encouragement have been instrumental in our efforts to enhance communication within the sector and promote public understanding of power sector issues.

“We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the agency heads present today. Your leadership and dedication to the PSCT’s objectives are truly commendable. Your valuable insights and contributions have significantly enhanced our discussions and helped us develop effective strategies for improving sector communication.” She added.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

INEC Task Edo Stakeholders on Peaceful Gubernatorial Elections

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 21, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged voters and political Stakeholders in Edo State to ensure a peaceful and coordinated elections in the forthcoming Edo State Governorship elections.

INEC’s Supervising National Commissioner for Edo, Delta and Cross River States, Prof. Rhoda Gumus, stated this at the commission’s office in Benin at the presentation of voter registers to the chairmen and representatives of the 16 participating political parties.

Gumus said, “Election should not be a do-or-die affair. If you do not win today, you may win tomorrow. Problems always erupt on election day. Politicians and their supporters in Edo State should eschew violence.

“INEC is ready for the governorship election in Edo State. We want the stakeholders to cooperate with the electoral commission to make the activities before, during and after the election to be seamless. I am giving an assurance that with the support of the security agencies, the election will be peaceful, free and fair.”

The supervising national commissioner also urged Edo residents and other Nigerians to be proud of their motherland, and never to allow tribe or tongue to divide them.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner of INEC in Edo, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, earlier reiterated that 2,501,081 voters were registered in the state for the 2023 general elections, while 173,048 persons were registered during the Continuous Voter Registration from May 27 to June 9, 2024, with 119,206 registrants, including the persons who transferred their PVCs, being valid, thereby bringing the total to 2,501,081 eligible voters.

The REC said campaigns would stop on September 19, while the governorship election would hold on September 21.

The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council in Edo, Greg Igbinomwanhia, who is also the state’s Chairman of People’s Redemption Party, commended INEC for carrying out activities of the election without hitch.

Igbinomwanhia added that the September 21 governorship poll in Edo must not just be free and fair, but peaceful.

He urged the leaders and members of the political parties to shun violence so that Governor Godwin Obaseki’s successor would be elected without rancour.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Again, Naira Depreciates To N1600 Against Dollar

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 21, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

The Naira fell to N1, 600 per dollar in the parallel market from N1,590 per dollar last weekend.

The Naira strengthened to N1,579.22 per dollar in the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), marking an appreciation in value.

Data from FMDQ showed that the indicative exchange rate for NAFEM fell to N1,579.22 per dollar from N1,579.89 per dollar last week Friday, indicating 67 kobo appreciation for the naira.

The volume of dollars traded in the market increased by 41.4 per cent to $162.99 million from $115.23 million traded last weekend.

Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NAFEM rate widened to N20.78 per dollar from N10.11 per dollar last week Friday.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

BREAKING: Wike declares Abuja Park and Pay Policy Illegal

by Folarin Kehinde August 21, 2024

written by Folarin Kehinde

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared the Park and Pay scheme in the nation’s capital as illegal.

Wike made the declaration during a live media parley with select journalists in Abuja, on Wednesay.

The interactive session was put together to mark his one year in office.

The minister said, “A call from a senior advocate, brought to light a scheme that has been siphoning government funds under the guise of a legal operation.

“The scheme, which appears to have been operating under the radar, highlights a critical flaw in the system that allows private consultants to pocket the lion’s share of revenues meant for the government.

“These are things we need to fight within the system. Sometimes, if you don’t bring it to our attention, we may not know. We can’t be everywhere.

“The incident unfolded when a Senior Advocate of Nigeria reached out to me with a troubling report. He said, ‘Sir, some people came to our office and they are trying to seize our cars. They claim to be from the Transport Secretariat. I asked him to give the person the phone, and I asked the person, ‘Who are you?’ He said, he is ffrom ‘Park and Pay from the Transport Secretariat.”

Wike, who was unaware of such activities, immediately sought clarification.

“I wasn’t aware of this, so I called the person in charge of it. I asked, ‘Who collects the money?’ Unknown to us, there are agreements between the secretariat and some people who claim to be consultants. So, the consultant takes 80%, and the FCT administration takes 20%,” Wike explained.

The minister declared their activities illegal, assuring that immediate action would be taken to dismantle the operation.

“I’m trying to say that it’s illegal, and nothing like that exists. And if my colleague hadn’t called me, I wouldn’t have known,” he concluded.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

Headlines

Tony Elumelu Launches New Bank

by Nelson Ugwuagbo August 21, 2024

written by Nelson Ugwuagbo

Nigerian Billionaire and Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), Tony Elumelu has launched Ucee Microfinance Bank, a subsidiary of United Capital Plc, a leading investment and financial services group.

Tony Elumelu performed the unveiling ceremony in Lagos, accompanied by a delegation of top executives, including Stephen Nwadiukpo, Chairman of Ucee MFB, Peter Ashade, Group CEO of United Capital Plc, and Esther Adeola-Balogun, Managing Director/CEO of Ucee MFB.

According to Elumelu, the new bank is committed to improving lives, creating prosperity, and helping society live comfortably. Elumelu expressed hope that the new bank would surpass the collective expectations of the group, consumers and the Nigerian public.

He expressed confidence in the bank’s leadership’s ability to take it beyond Nigeria’s shores.

Ashade said that Ucee MFB strives to drive financial inclusion and increase access to capital financial services in line with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) objectives.

Adeola-Balogun explained that the new microfinance bank was digitally focused on bridging the gap between digital and traditional microfinance banking operations.

She said that beyond profit-making, the Ucee MFB was ready to impact the lives of Nigerians.

According to her, the bank’s medium of reaching the Nigerian public is via its mobile app, a one-stop shop for all its products and services.

August 21, 2024 0 comments

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