All Posts in "Day: October 10, 2024"

Access Holdings Steps Up Sickle Cell Awareness 

  Mohammed Shosanya

Employees of Access Holdings Plc,have donated 159 pints of blood as part of an initiative to commemorate Sickle Cell Awareness Month.

The donation drive,which saw over 200 employees participate, was executed in partnership with the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service and the Boat Foundation/Life Bank.

This contribution will directly support sickle cell champions, who often require urgent blood transfusions due to life-threatening complications from the disease,a statement said.

Amaechi Okobi, Chief Communications Officer at Access Holdings PLC, spoke on the significance of the initiative, stating, “Every pint of blood donated represents hope and survival for someone living with sickle cells. We are incredibly proud of our staff who volunteered and our partners who made this possible. Access Holdings is committed to championing causes that change lives and create lasting impact.”

Besides,Access Bank, the flagship subsidiary of Access Holdings, hosted a webinar, featuring a distinguished panel of speakers, including Prof. Ebele Uche, Professor of Haematology at the Lagos State University College of Medicine; Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service; Dr. Sola Adebekun, Executive Secretary of the Temitayo Awosika Help Foundation, and Ms. Judith Ojonugwa Mathew, a sickle cell champion.

The webinar focused on raising awareness about the challenges faced by individuals living with sickle cell and emphasised the importance of regular blood donations in managing the disorder.

The panellists shared insights on healthcare gaps, the need for increased blood supply, and the impact of public-private partnerships in supporting sickle cell patients. 

The event also included personal stories from sickle cell champions, highlighting their daily struggles and the importance of timely interventions like blood transfusions.

Access Holdings’ involvement in this campaign underscores its dedication to advancing healthcare initiatives that benefit vulnerable communities. 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in Health 0
Why Tinubu Should Be Blamed For Fuel Price Hike-TUC

          Mohammed Shosanya
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria,TUC,has insisted that the presidency is responsible for persistent hikes in the price of fuel in the country.
Its President,Comrade Festus Osifo,accused the presidency of being too much in a haste to exit subsidy without understudying the dynamics in the Nigerian economy.
At a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, suggested that the only panacea to address price violatility in the energy sector was to create a special forex pool, where Dangote refinery can easily access to ensure the availability of the product to Nigerians.
He hinged the prevailing crisis in the sector and the economic hardships in the country on the removal of subsidy on petrol and the devaluation of the naira which has made it one of the weakest currency in the world.
He said though fuel subsidy has been eliminated as declared by President Bola Tinubu  after his swearing-in on May 29, 2023,the high exchange rate brought it back.
According to him,three things which are key requirements for energy security in the country are accessibility, availability and affordability
He said: “So for the very first one, accessibility, as Dangote refinery is today. We want government through the regulator of the industry, NMDPRA to give licenses to all marketers to source for product from Dangote refinery, if he has the volume to give to us in Nigeria today, the 35 million liters minimum per day that we consume so that let all marketers be able to access this product, bring this product to their respective stations that cut across the nook and cranny of Nigeria. That is number one regarding accessibility,
“Then the second one, that touches on availability. First,we need to know what is the production capacity of Dangote refinery today. We understand that the refinery capacity is 650,000 barrels per day. We understand that our full production that could give us maybe something in excess of 50 million liters.
“So even if today, Dangote refinery is producing 35 million liters, do we have the capacity to be able to evacuate 35 million liters per day from that refinery? So that is the question we call on the regulator to provide us with that answer. We must know. Do we have the quantity in the country that will be able to resolve the issues of availability?
“We want government and through the regulator to be able to speed up all the necessary support and approvals to Dangote refinery, to be able to get to that level where we could have excess of 40 million liters per day.
“It is key, because if for example, the production today, from Dangote refinery,  let’s assume is 50 million liters, it is not sufficient. So why efforts are being made to ramp up production from Dangote refinery, what we are demanding is that we should look for every other means as we are ramping up production, the difference, we should source for that difference and bring it in for a while, until Dangote is able to get to that level where the production will be sufficient to go across the nook and crannies of Nigeria. So for us, that is key, because that will sufficiently address the issues that borders on availability.
“Then,the last one is the issue bothering on affordability, what we have demanded before and it is still the same thing that we are demanding today. If government today makes a special intervention in that sector by giving FX  to Dangote refinery at 1200 Naira to a $1 PMS price today is going to crash much more below 700 Naira per liter of PMS.
“So the demand is that government should create a special foreign exchange scheme for that purpose. There is no government in the world that doesn’t intervene in its critical sector. And the critical sector in this case is the energy sector.
“We shouldn’t leave it to the vibration and the gyrations that we are having regarding our naira. So when that special intervention is done, the PMs price will even go below. It is going to go below where it was moved from. It was moved from about 800 Naira, plus about when that intervention is done, it’s going to go about 700 naira.
“That is our demand to government three things. One, affordability. So that we must be able to buy this product. We want the price of the product to go even below where it was before, not just reverse, even where it was before, but it will go below, if we attend clearly to the issues that are bothering on foreign exchange.
“Some of you may ask why foreign again.Government said they are selling crude to Dangote refinery with our local currency now, but crude is an international product, so it’s actually priced in USD, but all you now do is that you have to convert the value from the USD to local currency.
“If government today makes a special intervention in that sector by giving Fx to Dangote Refinery at 1,200 Naira to a dollar, PMS price is going to crash much more below 700 Naira per litre of PMS.
“So the demand is that government should create a special Fx scheme for that purpose. There is no government in the world that doesn’t intervene in its critical sector, and the critical sector in this case is the energy sector.
“Government can intervene in that sector by what we have opined earlier, that will even help Dangote Refinery to even employ more Nigerians and make its operations much more efficient and that will crash the PMS price to where it was as of June last year”.

 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
NNPC Reaffirms Commitment To Economic Growth In Niger Delta

      Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited,has reiterated its dedication to fostering lasting peace and economic growth in the Niger Delta by working closely with the region’s host communities.

Its Group CEO,Mallam Mele Kyari, emphasized this during a dialogue session with Niger Delta communities, organized in collaboration with the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (South-South), Hon. Gift Johnbull, at the Igurubia Square Ultra-Modern Town Hall in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on Thursday.

The session was part of the citizen assembly engagements, held as a precursor to the upcoming Conference of Parties (COP) 29, scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November. Representing Kyari at the event was Mr. Sani Kabo, Head of Business Services at NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS),the company’s spokesman,Femi Soneye said in a statement.

 He noted that this dialogue represents a significant step towards strengthening unity and advancing development in the region through the Third Phase Amnesty Program.

He expressed NNPC Ltd’s commitment to ongoing discussions with traditional leaders,ex-agitators, and youth representatives, aimed at addressing local concerns and rebuilding trust across the nine states in the Niger Delta.

He said the introduction of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), has provided for the allocation of 3% of NNPC Ltd’s operational expenditures (OPEX) for community development. 

He explained that the initiative will ensure that projects align with the priorities of the communities, while also promoting skills acquisition, community empowerment, and sustainable livelihood programs for their long-term benefit.

He added:“Our goal is clear.We are committed to fostering lasting peace, creating economic opportunities, and transforming the Niger Delta into a model of unity and progress. NNPC Ltd stands with the Niger Delta in building a prosperous future founded on mutual respect and collaboration”.

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
DisCos’ Meter Installations Drop In Q2-NERC

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has said that 49,188 meters were installed in the second quarter of 2024.

 

 

 

Disclosing this in its second quarter 2024 report on Thursday,the commission said the installations represent a drop of 60.86 per cent compared to the 125,664 meters installed in the first quarter.

 

 

 

During the period in view,35,985 meters representing 73.16 per cent of the total installations, were installed under the Meter Asset Providers (MAP) framework and that 264 meters representing 0.54 per cent were installed under the National Mass Metering Programme (NMMP) framework,NERC.

 

 

 

It added:“The Vendor Financed framework accounted for 12,843 meter representing 26.11 per cent of the installations, while 96 meter installations were recorded under the DisCo Financed framework representing 0.20 per cent of the installations, ‘’ it said.

 

 

 

According to the commission,it expected the Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos), to utilise a combination of the five meter financing frameworks that have been provided in the 2021 Meter Asset Provider and National Mass Metering Programme.

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in Power 0
Kaduna Electric Upgrades Infrastructure

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

The management of Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company has initiated upgrades to its power infrastructure and network rehabilitation across its franchise states.

 

 

The company’s Deputy Managing Director/COO, Abubakar Sadiq Mohammed, announced this during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure upgrades at one of the company’s substations in Kaduna,a statement said.

 

 

 

He disclosed that Kaduna Electric has created three 11KV commercial feeders in Kaduna and Sokoto states over the past month to strengthen power supply to its customers.

 

 

 

According to him,the company has made multi-million-naira investments aimed at improving power quality, particularly for commercial and industrial customers,reducing both technical and commercial losses, and boosting the company’s revenue.

 

 

 

He stated: “The company has recently installed a 2.5MVA power transformer and established three 11KV feeders dedicated to commercial and industrial customers in Kaduna and Sokoto. This initiative is designed to enhance the power supply quality and reduce ATC&C losses.”

 

 

He further emphasized that Kaduna Electric remains committed to delivering improved services to customers through strategic investments and process automation to boost the company’s commercial performance.

 

 

 

He also assured that additional investments will be made in the future to ensure better electricity services for customers.

 

 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in Power 0
Nigeria Needs Stakeholders’ Collaboration To Grow Economy-NESG

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group(NESG) is seeking stakeholders’ collaboration for Nigeria’s economic transformation,saying effective stakeholders’ collaboration fosters better decision-making by leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise for national development.

 

 

 

Ms. Ayanyinka Ayanlowo,Acting Head, Strategic Communication & Advocacy, NESG,said this in a statement on Thursday.

 

 

 

She explained stakeholders’ collaboration helps to promote synergy between various tiers and levels of governments and other stakeholders, leading to greater economic development and inclusivity.

 

 

She said: “As the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #30) approaches, the emphasis on promoting stakeholder collaboration, a sub-theme of NES #30, resonates as a cornerstone for driving Nigeria’s and Africa’s economic stability and development.

 

 

 

“This pivotal Summit, themed “Collaborative Action for Growth, Competitiveness, and Stability,” underscores the necessity of synergising efforts among governments, businesses, civil society, and international partners to achieve comprehensive and sustainable economic progress.

 

 

 

 

“By fostering a collaborative environment, NES #30 aims to ensure that economic policies and strategies are aligned to support long-term stability and development, ultimately leading to a resilient and thriving economy for Nigeria and the broader African continent.

 

 

 

“Stakeholder collaboration is crucial for crafting unified approaches to policy-making and infrastructure development.Within Nigeria, such collaboration can boost industrial growth and job creation. At a regional level, it can enhance trade and harness Africa’s vast resources and markets to achieve economic diversification.

 

 

 

“Engagement with global economies facilitates technology transfer, foreign investment, and the adoption of best practices.By working together, stakeholders can address common challenges, leverage shared opportunities, and create a resilient, competitive, and inclusive economy that benefits all Africans”.

 

 

The group noted that the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit represents a critical juncture for Nigeria and Africa,adding that “By focusing on promoting stakeholder collaboration, NES #30 will chart a course for a more unified, competitive, and prosperous future.”

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in News 0
Middle East Crisis Responsible For Petrol Price Hike-FG

 

 

 

 

The Federal Government says the current crisis in the Middle East is responsible for the latest hike in the pump price of petrol in Nigeria.

 

 

Minister of Information and National Orientation,Mohammed, Idris,told DailyTrust that the government should not be held responsible for the latest hike in petrol price.

 

 

 

According to him,the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited made the decision in response to prevailing circumstances in the energy industry.

 

 

 

He emphasised that the company did not act on any instruction from the federal government, as the government can no longer fix prices of petroleum products,  in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

 

 

 

He explained that with the subsidy regime ending since May 2023, the NNPCL had only been paying differential to keep the price within the range it had been,but the company said it could no longer absorb the losses.

 

 

He added:“The differential you’re seeing is a result of different factors. One of them is the crisis in the Middle East. There’s volatility in the market. Therefore, the prices of petroleum products are going up, consistent with what is happening with other operators in the industry globally. Secondly, NNPC cannot continue to absorb these losses for Nigeria because as a limited liability company, it would be operating at a loss”.

 

 

He implored Nigerians to continue to show understanding with the NNPCL and the government, assuring that in the long run the prices would ultimately come down.

 

 

 

He assured that the government would continue to invest the savings from removal of subsidies to improve other critical sectors like healthcare, education, infrastructure,and security.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in News 0
40m Nigerians Suffering From Mental Disorder-Group

      Mohammed Shosanya
The National Association of Seadogs, otherwise known as Pyrates Confraternity, Sahara Deck chapter, Abuja Municipal, has said that 40 million Nigerians are affected by mental disorders,insisting it is crucial to prioritize workplace mental wellbeing of citizens.
The group stated this in a statement on Thursday to mark World Mental Health Day.
Everestus Chinedum Esq,Capoon,Sahara Deck Pyrates Confraternity (Abuja City Chapter),signed the statement and made it available to journalists.
According to the statement,this year’s theme is: “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”, highlighting the urgent need for workplace mental well-being initiatives.
The group advocated for measures such as safe reporting channels, mental health awareness, and resources to combat workplace bullying and chronic stress.
The group stated that a radio program on Kiss FM will facilitate discussions on these issues, aiming to foster a healthier work environment for all Nigerians.
The statement reads in part: “The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) Sahara Deck (Abuja Municipal) joins the global community in observing the World Mental Health Day, as designated by the World Health Organization (WHO).
“This year’s theme, “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” resonates deeply with Nigeria’s current realities.Mental health concerns have surged due to rising suicides and related issues.
“With most people spending more time at work than at home, it’s crucial to prioritize workplace mental wellbeing.
“A healthy work environment boosts productivity and individual mental health.Nigeria is grappling with a mental health crisis, with ⁠40 million Nigerians suffering from mental disorders (Source: WHO, 2020),20% of Nigerians experiencing depression (Source: Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice, 2020),⁠ 15% of Nigerians reporting suicidal thoughts (Source: International Journal of Mental Health   Systems, 2019), ⁠11,000 reported cases of suicide between 2019-2022 (Source: National Bureau of Statistics, 2022).
“In Abuja specifically,  ⁠34.6% of residents experience depression (Source: Nigerian Journal of Clinical Practice, 2020),  ⁠22.1% suffer from anxiety disorders (Source: International Journal of Mental Health Systems, 2019), ⁠15.1% report workplace bullying (Source: Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health, 2022).
 “A healthy workplace can contribute significantly to the mental wellbeing of individuals and raise productivity levels significantly. It is to this end that the National Association of Seadogs seeks to put the conversation about mental health in the front burner.
“In Nigeria, many face extreme work-related stress and bullying, yet victims fear reporting due to stigma and retaliation. The National Association of Seadogs aims to bring this critical conversation to the forefront, advocating for safe reporting channels and protections.
“The Common causes of mental health breakdown in Nigerian workplaces include: ⁠Chronic stress and overwork; ⁠Workplace bullying and harassment; ⁠Poor work-life balance; Lack of support from employers;  ⁠Inadequate mental health resources.
“To address these concerns, we urge governments at all levels to: Implement stringent sanctions against workplace harassment and bullying; Establish safe reporting channels for mental health issues;⁠ ⁠Promote mental health awareness;⁠ ⁠Provide accessible mental health resources.
“As an organization that places humanistic ideals at the core of what we do, the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) Abuja City Chapter is sponsoring a Radio Program on Kiss FM 99.9 Abuja to discuss mental health.
“We have also invited to the Ministry of Labour and Employment to encourage workers to tune in to the program.A mental health expert will be live on air to discuss issues around mental health in the workplace.
“The National Association of Seadogs is a humanitarian organization committed to promoting humanistic ideals and advocating for social justice”.

 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in News 0
How To Stabilize Nigeria’s Economy-NESG

        Mohammed Shosanya
Tackling hunger in Nigeria is a crucial step toward achieving broader economic development and stability in the country,the Nigerian Economic Summit Group(NESG),has said.
A statement on Wednesday issued by Ms. Ayanyinka Ayanlowo, Acting Head, Strategic Communication & Advocacy, NESG, said that despite the fact that Nigeria has vast agricultural potential, food insecurity remains a significant concern, exacerbated by factors such as conflicts, climate change, and poverty.
According to her,the forthcoming 30th Nigerian Economic Summit would explore targeted interventions, including enhancing agricultural productivity, improving food distribution systems, and supporting smallholder farmers.
She said:”Tackling hunger, one of the most pressing global challenges, will take center stage at the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #30) during Plenary V: “Tackling Hunger,” scheduled from October 14th to 16th, 2024, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
“As hunger continues to impact millions across Africa, the session will focus on sustainable solutions to combat food insecurity and malnutrition, particularly in Nigeria and the broader African continent.
“According to the 2023 Global Hunger Index, Africa is home to 8 of the 9 countries with alarming levels of hunger, a situation that continues to threaten economic stability and development.
“With under-five child mortality attributed to hunger estimated at 3.2 million children, Africa accounts for nearly half of the world’s child deaths in this age group.
“Addressing this crisis is not just a moral imperative but a critical economic and social challenge.”
The group affirmed that some countries across the world have introduced right policies, enabling laws and good interventions to drastically reduce hunger in their countries.
“Countries like Brazil have demonstrated that with the right policies, hunger can be dramatically reduced.
“Brazil’s “Fome Zero” (Zero Hunger) initiative has been widely praised for its success in combining social programmes, agricultural subsidies, and food security measures to significantly reduce hunger and poverty.
“Similarly,India’s National Food Security Act has enabled millions of citizens to access affordable food through a well-organised public distribution system, offering valuable insights for Nigeria’s food security strategy,” the NESG said.
In line with the theme of this year’s Summit, “Collaborative Action for Growth, Competitiveness, and Stability,” the NESG  underscored the importance of collective efforts in tackling hunger.
“Plenary V will bring together government officials, agricultural experts, development partners, and private sector stakeholders to discuss how Nigeria can leverage partnerships and innovative approaches to create a hunger-free future.
“By improving food production, reducing post-harvest losses, and addressing climate change’s impact on agriculture, Nigeria can take decisive steps to reduce hunger and malnutrition.
“Policies aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector, boosting rural infrastructure, and providing access to financial resources for small-scale farmers will also be key discussion points during the session,” the statement added.
Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in News 0
NDDC’s Chamber Of Commerce Initiative In Order-Akwa Ibom Governor

      Mohammed Shosanya
 Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno,has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC for initiating the establishment of the Niger Delta Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Trade, Mines and Agriculture, NDCCITMA.
The Governor,who was represented at the event by the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Trade and Investments, Dr John James Etim,gave the commendation while declaring open the NDCCITMA sensitisation workshop in Uyo,the state capital.
According to him,the Chamber of Commerce initiative aligned with the state government’s policy of promoting investments and entrepreneurship as critical drivers of economic development.
Governor Eno emphasized the importof collaborations in promoting investments to secure the future of Niger Delta people in the years beyond the oil-driven economy,noting that thinking beyond the oil era was a pathway to sustainable development in the Niger Delta region.
A statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama,Director, Corporate Affairs on Wednesday,quoted Eno as noting that the Niger Delta region was blessed with abundant natural resources, including rich arable land for agriculture.
He said: “We have rich agricultural produce, such as palm oil for which we can be self-sufficient, as well as being a net-exporter.”
Speaking,the NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku,restated the commitment of the Commission to the development of the people of the region through economic empowerment programmes.
Ogbuku,who was represented by the Akwa Ibom State representative on the NDDC Board, Pastor Abasiandikan Nkono, said that the collaboration with the NDCCITMA would help to train youths and aspiring entrepreneurs, as well as support small and medium-scale enterprises.
He advised NDCCITMA to design industry-friendly skill development programmes and urged the National Association of Small and Medium Scale Enterprise, formal and informal business communities and individuals seeking for financial support to register with NDCCITMA for future interventions.
He stated that the Commission would henceforth give priority to entrepreneurs and contractors that were duly registered with the NDCCITMA.
He added: “The vision behind the establishment of NDCCITMA is in line with Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at enabling an assured future for the people. I want to encourage all Chambers of Commerce within the region to work closely with NDCCITMA.”
The NDDC Executive Director, Projects, Sir. Victor Antai, observed that the sensitisation workshop was organised to raise awareness about the establishment of NDCCITMA and to explain the vast opportunities it presented across various economic sectors.
Antai,who was represented by the NDDC Director of Commercial and Industrial Development, Dr Godwin Nosiri, said that the Chamber of Commerce initiative would support small scale businesses that were struggling, as well as boost nano and micro-level businesses that were almost non-existent, noting that collaboration with NDCCITMA would help to aggregate smaller business groups and develop sustainable models for growth.
He enjoined the business groups, startups and those with business ideas in the conceptual stage to leverage on the opportunity provided to advance their interest by seeking valuable business counsel from the new Chamber of Commerce.
The Secretary of the NDCCITMA board, Dr Solomon Edebiri, said that “the successful establishment of the Niger Delta Chamber of Commerce is one of the numerous success stories of the NDDC under the leadership of Chief Samuel Ogbuku.
“The process further attests to his commitment, strength and tenacity, when it comes to the delivery of projects that will enhance the region economically and ginger the people in multiple disciplines.”
He hailed the NDDC management for deciding to use the Chambers of Commerce as a tool for development that would encompass the involvement of the very informal sector, small, medium and the large-scale businesses or companies.

 

Online Editor by — October 10, 2024 in SME/Manufacturing 0