All Posts in "Month: September 2024"

Niger Delta:NDDC Trains 200 Women,Youth Farmers

Mohammed Shosanya

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has concluded the training of 200 women and youths in Livestock Farming and Agro-Processing at the Okiemutie Farms in Eku  Amukpe, Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the training and empowerment programme, the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, said that the NDDC Board and Management realised the importance of agriculture as a diverse and relevant sector to address unemployment and poverty.

Ogbuku, who was represented by the NDDC Director, Agric and Fisheries, Dr Winifred Madume, expressed delight that the programme was particularly inclusive of women, who constituted the majority in farming activities in most parts of the Niger Delta region.

He said:”It is important that the graduating trainees use the opportunity of the knowledge and skills acquired during the training to contribute to the development of the livestock sector in the region.

He enjoined the trainees to leverage on cooperative groups to further seek support or partnership with NDDC and agricultural financial institutions for the promotion and development of the livestock sector to improve protein sources to meet local needs and encourage export

He added:”Let me at this point stress the need for the graduating trainees to invest wisely in  their chosen enterprises.

“The Commission as an interventionist agency shall continue to support and encourage agricultural empowerment programmes. I can assure you that NDDC shall change the narrative where agricultural programmes are implemented in a shoddy manner without the desired impact.”

The NDDC boss said that the Commission was in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, to provide apprenticeship programmes for residents of the Niger Delta region. In addition, he said, “several agricultural programmes have been designed for implementation under the Holistic Opportunities Projects of Engagement, Project HOPE.

In his address, the NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Sir Victor Antai, noted that during the participants received extensive theory and practical training in livestock husbandry practices related to Poultry, Piggery, Goatry, among others. In addition, trainees were exposed to processing activities in broilers and cassava.

Antai,who was represented by a Director in Agric and Fisheries, Dr Olumide Epebinu, said that the curriculum for these multi-sectoral areas was designed so as to provide the needed skills required for developing their various enterprises.

He declared: “We are confident that the knowledge and skills gained by these trainees would translate into a boost in livestock production across the value chain in the Niger Delta region.

He urged the graduating trainees to extend the knowledge and skills received to other residents in their localities.

He also advised them to make judicious use of the empowerment support package disbursed to them, observing that it was advisable to start small and grow big.

He expressed appreciation to the management and staff of Okiemute Farms, the training centre; and Hauge Logistics Ltd., the Consultant, for facilitating a seamless training for the trainees.

Earlier in a welcome address, the General operations Manager of Okiemutie Farms, Dr Benjamin Ubido, thanked the NDDC for the training of women and youth in livestock farming, describing it as “a remarkable initiative that provides the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in agriculture. This training is part of NDDC’s commitment to promoting projects and programmes that drive food security and sustainable growth in the Niger Delta region.”

He said that the programme’s focus on livestock farming and agro-processing was strategic, considering the region’s potential for agricultural development, noting: “By equipping women and youth with expertise in these areas, NDDC is fostering economic growth, improving food security, and reducing poverty.”

Ubido said that the training of women and youths aligns with the mandate to promote sustainable development in the Niger Delta region. By empowering beneficiaries with agricultural expertise, NDDC is investing in the region’s future and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth.

The NDDC Director, Agric and Fisheries presented cheques of N500,000 to each of the graduating trainees.

 

Online Editor by — September 27, 2024 in Agriculture 0
Akwa Ibom Governor Loses Wife

Mohammed Shosanya

Akwa Ibom State Government has announced the death of the First Lady,Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

A release signed by the state Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong and made available to newsmen in Uyo Thursday night indicates that she died as a result of an illness

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of the Wife of the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, following an illness. She passed away peacefully at the hospital, on 26th September, 2024, in the presence of her family.

“The family submits to the will of the Almighty and asks for the prayers and support of kind-hearted individuals during this difficult time. Further details will be provided by the family as necessary”. The release stated

The Akwa Ibom first family however asked for privacy to mourn their irreplaceable matriarch, and in the days ahead, to avail the public with further information as needed.

Meanwhile, Governor Umo Eno, has expressed profound gratitude to those who have stood by him and his family during this darkest of times.

He reaffirmed his steadfastness to his duties to the people of Akwa Ibom State, a testament to his unwavering commitment even in a state of unimaginable grief.

Online Editor by — September 27, 2024 in News 0
Bribery:Don’t Commit Suicide,Portable Begs Bobrisky

Bribery:Don’t Commit Suicide,Portable Begs Bobrisky
          Mohammed Shosanya
Controversial singer Portable has advised popular crossdresser Idris Okuneye, aka Bobrisky,to shun  suicide contemplation over the N15 million bribery allegations involving him and some Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) officers.
Bobrisky had Thursday revealed that the emotional toll of the bribery scandal had led him to contemplate suicide.
In a video posted on his Instagram page Thursday, Portable urged Bobrisky to seek forgiveness from God and repent from his sins.
He further warned the crossdresser against committing suicide, noting that he would face eternal damnation in hell.
He said: “Hello, Bobrisky. Life is risky, and God doesn’t want the death of sinners. Tell Bobrisky to repent because God doesn’t desire the death of a sinner—Woe unto any sinner who fails to repent.
“Bobrisky, don’t commit suicide by hanging yourself because if you do, you’re going to hell. Ask God for forgiveness because He doesn’t want the death of sinners.”
He urged Bobrisky to find solace in God, emphasising that God desires repentance, not sinners’ death.
He also advised Bobrisky not to be like a sparrow that refuses to turn away from its wrongdoings.
He added:“I just want people to know that God doesn’t want sinners to perish. Please help me tell Bobrisky to seek forgiveness from God. If he repents, all his challenges will become things of the past, and he’ll enjoy his life. The sparrow didn’t repent, and that’s why it remains a sparrow today”.
Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in News 0
Oil Companies Owe FG $6bn,N66bn-Report

     Mohammed Shosanya
The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) has announced  that outstanding collectible revenues due to the Federal Government in the oil and gas industry as of June this year have risen to over $6.071 billion and N66.4 billion, respectively.
Chris Ochonu, Assistant Director, Communications and Stakeholders Management, said this in a statement.
He noted that these figures were among crucial information and data contained in NEITI’s 2022 and 2023 Independent Oil and Gas Industry Report, released today in Abuja.
According to the report,a breakdown shows that the outstanding liabilities were $6.049 billion and N65.9 billion in unpaid royalties and gas flare penalties, due to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission as collectible revenues by August 31, 2024.
The report also provides a detailed analysis of the information and data regarding who owes what in outstanding revenues due to the government.
“A further breakdown shows outstanding petroleum profit taxes, company income taxes, withholding taxes, and VAT due to the Federal Inland Revenue Service, amounting to $21.926 million and N492.8 million as of June 2024.On fuel importation, the latest NEITI report disclosed that a total of 23.54 billion litres of PMS (premium motor spirit) were imported into the country in 2022, while 20.28 billion litres were imported in 2023.
“This represents a reduction of 3.25 billion litres, or a 14% decline, following the removal of the subsidy. A detailed 10-year trend analysis (2014–2023) in the NEITI report shows that the highest annual PMS importation into the country, 23.54 billion litres, was recorded in 2022, while the lowest, 16.88 billion litres, was recorded in 2017.
The NEITI report also disclosed that a total of N15.87 trillion was claimed as under-recovery/price differentials between 2006 and 2023, with the highest amount, N4.714 trillion, recorded in 2022.On crude production, fiscalized crude production in 2022 stood at 490.945 million barrels, compared to 556.130 million barrels produced in 2021, representing an 11% decline.
“However, in 2023, NEITI’s independent report revealed total fiscalised production of 537.571 million barrels, a 46.626 million-barrel or 9.5% increase from total production recorded in 2022. A 10-year trend (2014–2023) of fiscalised crude oil production in Nigeria shows the highest production volume of 798.542 million barrels was recorded in 2014, while the lowest, 490.945 million barrels, was recorded in 2022.
“The NEITI report also provided detailed information and data on crude lifting. In 2022, total crude lifting was 482.074 million barrels compared to 551.006 million barrels lifted in 2021. In 2023, total crude lifting stood at 534.159 million barrels, representing an 11% increase of 58.08 million barrels.
On oil theft and crude losses, a total of 7.68 million barrels of crude were either stolen or lost in 2023, representing a significant drop of 79% (29.02 million barrels) compared to 36.69 million barrels either stolen or lost in 2022.
“On overall revenue generation in the oil and gas industry, the report showed that material companies accounted for US$15.549 billion (96%) and non-material companies for US$695.604 million (4%) in revenues generated in 2022. In 2023, material companies accounted for US$21.415 billion (95%), and non-material companies accounted for US$1.238 billion (5%).
“The revenues came from 17 identified revenue streams, including proceeds from taxes, oil and gas sales, dividends from NLNG, royalty payments, signature bonuses, gas flare penalties, and concessions.NEITI’s independent industry report carefully reviewed and reported on all aspects of the regulatory framework for the oil and gas industry, including the legal framework, fiscal regime, roles of government entities and reforms, laws (PIA 2021), and regulations relating to addressing corruption risks in the oil and gas sector.
“The report also conducted an overview of the statutory procedures for the awards and transfers of licenses. It disclosed comprehensive information on property rights to oil and gas licenses and leases, including beneficial ownership information and public accessibility of contracts and licenses.
“Other areas covered included disclosures on the participation of state-owned enterprises in the oil and gas sector, exploration, production levels, and the valuation of extractive output. A total of seventy-eight (78) companies in the oil and gas industry and nine (9) relevant government agencies that collect, keep custody, or manage oil and gas revenues were covered by the NEITI process” it noted.
At the public presentation of the report on Thursday in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, reaffirmed “the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the principles of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) being implemented in the country’s oil and gas sector by NEITI. We consider the EITI not only as a global standard for promoting transparency in the management of revenues from natural resources but also as a tool to strengthen public trust, accountability, and economic growth,” the SGF stated.
Sen. Akume, who also chairs the NEITI board, acknowledged that information and data provided by NEITI’s independent reports have consistently proven invaluable to the government.
These reports have guided policy decisions, reforms, and measures that foster accountability, particularly in the oil and gas sector. In a sector where opacity could easily lead to leakages, inefficiencies, and corruption, NEITI has become an indispensable partner in ensuring that Nigerians are fully aware of how their commonwealth is managed.
He assured that the government’s commitment to this process extends beyond simple endorsement.
The Federal Government considers NEITI’s role as a beacon of transparency and accountability in the extractive industries, and the credibility of its reports serves as a foundation for formulating national policies, fighting corruption, revenue growth, and ensuring equitable distribution of revenues.
The data contained in the report will inform critical government decisions moving forward, especially as we continue to prioritize resource management, revenue mobilization, and public accountability.
The SGF further emphasized, “As the Chairman of the NEITI Board, I stand before you today to underscore the Federal Government’s respect for NEITI’s independence. While my role as Chairperson is a testament to the importance the government places on NEITI, it also signifies the commitment to ensure that NEITI operates independently, without interference, as mandated by the EITI standard. It is our duty to safeguard this independence with great care and diligence, ensuring that NEITI can operate free from undue influence,” Sen. Akume added.
The Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, explained that the preparation of the report followed a meticulous and transparent process in line with global Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) standards.
“A rigorous, multi-stakeholder approach was adopted, involving extensive collaboration with government agencies, extractive companies, civil society, and indigenous consultants. We ensured that all data was collected, validated, and reconciled in an open and transparent manner,” the NEITI Executive Secretary stated.
He added that the report provides valuable insights that will help guide policy, encourage robust public debate, and ultimately improve governance in the management of our natural resources. The report, as always, remains a vital tool for identifying leakages, improving revenue collection, and promoting resource management reforms.
The Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede said that  any agency or extractive playing with full compliance and cooperation with NEITI Independent Audit process is making a huge mistake as the EFCC and NEITI in close partnership in the challenging war against especially in the oil, gas and mining industry.
The EFCC chairman stated that where the work of NEITI stops, is where the work of EFCC begins. The Chairman announced that from NEITI’s past reports, EFCC recently recovered and remitted to the Federal Government coffers over N1 billion.
He gave an assurance that the current reports released by NEITI will be taken over by the EFCC for thorough and further investigations of its findings and recommendations.
Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
Bobrisky:FG Suspends Top Prison Officials 

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal Government has suspended indefinitely officers in charge of the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres, Kirikiri, Lagos State, on account of a viral audio leak indicating that a  crossdresser, Idris Okuneye popularly known as Bobrisky, who was convicted of a money laundering crime and sentenced to six months in jail,got an  apartment outside the custodial centre.

 

The Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, CDCFIB, Ja’afaru Ahmed,disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

 

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo had on Wednesday set up an investigation into the allegations.

 

 

In the statement,Ahmed said the suspension of the officers is to allow for further investigation on the various allegations, assuring that the outcome would be made public when concluded.

 

 

He added:“Following the viral video trending on social media on alleged infractions by Officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service relating to Mr. Idris Okuneye, widely known as Bobrisky, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board has suspended forthwith the following Senior Officers of the Service.

“Michael Anugwa, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), In-Charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kiri-kiri, Lagos State; and Sikiru Adekunle, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), In-Charge of Maximum-Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kiri-kiri, Lagos State.

 

“Also, the Board has suspended ASC II Ogbule Samuel Obinna, serving at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Afikpo, Ebonyi State, for allegedly accompanying a convicted inmate out of the Custodial Centre to a location outside the facility.

“In another related development, the Board has equally suspended another Senior Officer of the Service, Iloafonsi Kevin Ikechukwu, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC), In-Charge of Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kuje- Abuja, for allegedly receiving monies on behalf of an inmate”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in News 0
Independent Marketers Should Be Allowed To Lift Fuel From Dangote Refinery-Reps

      Mohammed Shosanya
The Federal House of Representatives on Thursday urged the Federal Government to instruct the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and the Dangote Refinery to permit independent marketers to begin lifting fuel from the newly established refinery.
This is to enhance fuel distribution and ensuring a more competitive market,the lawmakers said.
The resolution of the House follows the adopted of a motion of urgent public importance, sponsored by Hon. Oboku Oforji, who represents the Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State.
Leading the debate, Oforji mentioned  that despite the commencement of operations at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery few weeks ago,with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, only major marketers have been granted access by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to lift products from the refinery.
He said:”The House has expressed concern that the NNPC Limited (NNPCL) and major marketers, acting as exclusive off-takers, risk creating a monopoly, one that breeds greed. This is the same NNPCL that has been unable to effectively manage our crude oil resources and refineries for decades.
“If this monopoly is not addressed promptly, Nigerians will continue to suffer from the recurring scarcity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), with far-reaching consequences for the economy.”
“It is no surprise that the late MKO Abiola, of blessed memory, once lamented the lack of transparency and accountability within the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), as seen in a viral video some years ago.
The House of Representatives has expressed concern over the NNPCL’s policy of allowing only its own officials and major marketers to lift Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from refineries, while independent marketers are excluded from this process.
According to the lawmaker, representatives of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) have voiced fears that if this situation persists, they may be left with no choice but to import fuel independently to sustain their operations.”
The lawmaker commended Dangote Group, the parent company, for the successful commencement of its petroleum refining operations.
He also He emphasized that this milestone marks a significant step towards Nigeria’s journey to achieving energy self-sufficiency.
“The House acknowledges that with this achievement, Nigeria is on the path to energy independence, resulting in substantial cost savings and reduced reliance on foreign exchange. This will not only meet the growing demand for fuel but also attract foreign investments. The export of refined products will generate foreign exchange, conserve reserves, and add significant value to the economy, ultimately contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” the lawmaker noted.
“The House further note that given the high demand by millions of Nigerians for PMS, and the ordeal they go through to get it, NNPCL should allow independent marketers to lift the product from the Dangote refinery,” he added.
If the prevailing monopoly is not nipped in the bud, Oforji noted that the suffering of Nigerians occasioned by the scarcity of PMS will continue with disastrous consequences for the and we all know the implication economy,” he noted.
The House urged the management of Dangote Refinery to build, acquire or partner with stakeholders to get Tank Farms or depots across the geo-political zones in the country, to enhance petroleum availability to the people.
Meanwhile, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has inaugurated a special panel, chaired by the House Leader, Julius Ihonvbere, to work alongside a joint Senate committee in addressing the ongoing crisis in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
The committee is tasked with investigating the challenges affecting the sector and providing actionable recommendations for resolving the issues.
Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in News 0
CNL Raises Alarm Over Fake Job Alert

Mohammed Shosanya

Chevron Nigeria Limited (“CNL”), operator of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (“NNPCL”) and CNL Joint Venture,says it has received reports of false recruitment information in several media and online channels purportedly by CNL and Chevron Corporation, advertising job positions in CNL and offering job slots for sale.

These fraudulent job offers have reportedly been circulated through emails, text messages and phone calls by individuals purporting to be staff or representatives of CNL and Chevron Corporation,the company said in a statement signed by its General Manager,Policy,Government & Public Affairs,O.S Oduselu.

The company dissociated itself from such individuals and false job adverts and offers published in any web site, email, poster, handbill or any other medium. CNL did not make or authorize such false publications.

The company notified the public that it does not require applicants to make any payment for processing any job application.

The job offers requesting candidates to pay money, at any point during the recruitment process, are fraudulent and are not from CNL,the statement said.

It added:”CNL does not solicit job applications or initiate recruitment processes through emails, posters, handbills, text messages, social media, or phone calls.

“Job seekers are advised to always check the company’s website at: http:/www.careers.chevron.com, and the national newspapers for job advertisements from CNL.

“CNL will not respond to enquiries about fraudulent advertisements and job offers”.

Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in Labour/Human Resources 0
All On,USADF Expand Energy Access In Nigeria

Mohammed Shosanya

All On Partnerships for Energy Access (All On)  and the United States African Development Foundation (USADF) are pleased to announce the renewal of their partnership to expand off-grid energy access in Nigeria, with a focus on underserved communities. Building on the success of their collaboration from 2017 to 2022,

The new initiative will see both organizations commit a combined $10 million over the next three years to support innovative, African-owned businesses providing sustainable energy solutions,a statement said on Thursday.

 

To commemorate the renewal, a signing ceremony was held in New York, attended by All On CEO, Caroline Eboumbou and USADF President and CEO, Travis Adkins, alongside representatives from both organizations.

According to the statement,the ceremony marked a significant step forward in their joint mission to drive increased energy access and socio-economic development in Nigeria.

Through the All On-USADF Nigeria Energy Challenge, the partnership will continue investing in off-grid energy companies to increase access to clean energy for low-income communities, while contributing to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. The program will drive the localization of the energy value chain.

The initial cycle of the Challenge delivered US$3.6 million in blended finance to 36 companies. Since then, the companies have gone on to establish over 100,000 connections, improving more than 500,000 lives through access to clean energy.

USADF President and CEO, Travis Adkins, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating: “Our collaboration with All On has shown the transformative impact of off-grid energy solutions in improving lives and livelihoods in rural and underserved regions of Nigeria. We are excited to continue this partnership’s important work, advancing clean energy technologies while addressing essential needs like health, education, gender inclusion, and economic empowerment.”

The new funding will target both existing grantees and new businesses, focusing on addressing key challenges identified from previous cohorts. USADF will provide up to $250,000 in grant funding per selected project, while All On will contribute up to $750,000 per recipient through a range of investment mechanisms to support businesses in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Caroline Eboumbou, CEO of All On, highlighted the program’s impact, saying “We are thrilled to renew our partnership with USADF, which has already made a significant impact on energy access in Nigeria. By combining our resources and expertise, we aim to empower more local businesses and communities with sustainable energy solutions. This collaboration is not just about providing power; it’s about creating opportunities for economic growth and lasting development across sectors throughout Nigeria.”

 

The partnership will focus on empowering women in energy, enhancing agricultural productivity, and promoting digital innovation, while also addressing energy needs in healthcare and education. By supporting the development of inverters, battery systems, and other local manufacturing components, the collaboration aims to create a more sustainable and locally driven energy ecosystem in Nigeria.

Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in Power 0
UNGA 2024:Sahara Group Advocates Rapid Progress For SDGs In Africa

 

Mohammed Shosanya

Sahara Group,has said that more investments, global partnerships and strategic policies are required to fast-track Africa’s attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to benefit the continent that accounts for about 18.2 per cent of the world’s population.

 

Speaking at the UN Global Compact CEO Roundtable in New York, Kola Adesina, Executive Director, Sahara Group, said “Galvanising Africa to Move Forward Faster on the SDGs”, should be a global pursuit given the huge need in critical areas, especially, energy security with approximately 600 million Africans lacking access to electricity.

 

Adesina said global collaboration, investments, and focus on SDGs in Africa would facilitate a seamless and phased shift in energy consumption patterns through a transition to renewable energy sources to enhance productivity and economic stability.

“By working together and investing in renewable energy, we can create a sustainable and prosperous future for Africa. This transition not only addresses energy security but also drives economic growth, creates jobs, and combats climate change,” said Adesina.

 

CEOs at The UN Global Compact event discussed gender equality, climate action, living wages, water resilience, and finance and investment, with all conversations unanimously endorsing the need to raise awareness, mobilize investment and innovation, facilitate collaboration, drive action, and promote accountability among stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society, and individuals.

 

Adesina said transforming Africa’s energy sector would play a key role in driving the continent’s march towards sustainable development.

 

He noted that renewable energy adoption in Africa can be significantly advanced through a collaborative, phased approach, enabling policies that support responsible optimisation of existing energy sources, enabling policies that encourage investment from within the continent and institutional investors.

 

“To achieve successful energy transition in Africa, we need enabling policies that support innovation, investments, and collaboration in renewable technologies. As global leaders, we can create these frameworks that promote sustainable practices, ensuring that bringing energy to life responsibly remains a reality,” said Adesina.

 

The UN Global Compact event also addressed critical issues surrounding unemployment, with particular reference to how outdated educational curricula contribute to the challenge. Adesina said the continent needs a holistic review of its education system to ensure alignment with modern trends and skills.

“The kind of education we are promoting must be relevant to today’s economy. We cannot expect to create significant job opportunities when so many are left without the skills they need,” he stated.

 

According to him, Sahara Group would hold meetings with world and business leaders, as well as global investors, on the side of the United Nations General Assembly, to share Sahara’s value proposition on moving the needle northwards on Africa’s energy security.

“As a foremost energy conglomerate on the continent, Sahara Group is invested in getting involved and collaborating with other stakeholders in furthering efforts geared towards energising Africa. How we can achieve this, and other critical aspects of the SDGs in Africa is the focal point for Sahara Group at this UNGA 2024,” he added.

Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in News 0
Makinde Rewards Composer Of Oyo State Anthem,Reabsorbs 1,800 Workers

 

Mohammed Shosanya

Oyo State Government has reviewed the promotion of 1,629 state workers,including nurses who were affected by administrative error during the 2017-2020 promotion exercise.

In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, after the Executive Council Meeting,the government also approved the prayers of the State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni,for the reinstatement of 47 civil servants who were wrongfully dismissed from the service during the last administration.

Also, 124 workers who were dismissed in 2012 have also been pardoned.

The Commissioner said that 823 workers who were dismissed by the previous administration on the ground of fake certificates submission have their dismissal upheld while 180 who were employed at the twilight of the exit of the last administration in 2019 have their termination approved by the council.

In another development, the Commissioner for Information said that finally ₦25million (Twenty-five million naira) has been approved by the Council as compensation for the Composers of the State Anthem “Asiwaju Ni Wa.”

Approving the compensation, the President of Council and Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, acknowledged the initiative and foresightedness of the wife of the former Governor, Chief (Mrs) Florence Ajimobi.

Besides, the Composers will be given a parcel of land each, have streets named after them, while the Ministry of Information and Orientation will produce a documentary on the history behind the state anthem.

Prince Oyelade also said that the Council approved the presentation by the Commissioner for Public Works, Prof. Daud Sangodoyin, for road markings, kerbs painting and patching on designated roads in Ibadan metropolis through Direct-Labour Intervention adding that the kerbs will be painted in Oyo State colours.

The Executive Council Meeting also approved the following Bills for onward transmission to the State House of Assembly as presented by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Abiodun Aikomo.

They include:

1. The Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology Bill, 2024;

2. The Oyo State Flood Management Agency Bill, 2024, and

3. The Oyo State Drug and Health Commodity Management Agency Bill 2024.

According to the Commissioner, these new Bills are expected to have a positive impact on the State’s Healthcare System, Infrastructure, and overall development.

Online Editor by — September 26, 2024 in News 0