Mohammed Shosanya

Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has approved N80,000 minimum wage for the state’s work force, including local government workers, effective October 2024.

He announced the new minimum wage on Thursday after a meeting with the Enugu State Minimum Wage Implementation Committee headed by the Head of Service, Kenneth Ugwu and labour leaders, including the state’s labour leaders.

He said:“Few weeks ago, I inaugurated a committee with the responsibility to oversee the implementation of the New National Minimum Wage in Enugu State. Today, I’m happy to announce a new minimum wage for workers in Enugu State, reflecting our fidelity to their welfare, in regard of which we have been resolutely committed.

“We have approved the sum of N80,000 as the new minimum wage in Enugu State. This underscores our commitment to bequeathing lasting legacies of improved living conditions.

“Our commitment to improved workers’ welfare runs deep, and is rooted in the firm understanding of the inextricable link between an inspired workforce and the audacious economic targets we had set our sights on.

“We clearly understood that reducing poverty to the barest minimum and achieving an unprecedented economic growth target were contingent on the output of the workforce. Therefore, for us, the best way to acknowledge that labour creates wealth is by ensuring that the workforce, which creates the wealth that oils the wheel of government, is sufficiently motivated.

“We have similarly demonstrated our commitment to workers welfare through the consistent payment of the wage awards, a gesture we had pledged to sustain until a new wage structure took effect.”

Speaking,the Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Fabian Nwigbo, thanked governor Mbah for always prioritising the welfare of workers, describing the new minimum wage as “a great one for Enugu workers.”

 “In the past, when minimum wage is announced, it takes up to one or two years for anything to happen; and when it did, we took anything they gave us as we saw it.  But today, you have even given us something much higher than national minimum wage.

“But I am not totally surprised because when other governors were paying N12,000 wage award, you were paying us N25,000. When others paid for some months and stopped, you continued paying it until the new minium wage as you promised. So, we have enjoyed wage award for 11 months and today you announced the minimum wage which is the first of its kind since my 32 years in service,” said.

Speaking to Government House correspondents, the Chairman of the Enugu State chapter of the Trade Union Congress, TUC, Comrade Ben Asogwa, said, “We are so happy. The governor did not just announce ₦80,000 minium wage, but said that it cascades down to even local government workers. He said that he does not want disparity in salary implementation in Enugu State anymore because we all go to the same market.

“This is the first time in history we are seeing the implementation of minimum wage above the approved amount by the federal government. Actually, when we entered into the negotiation, we were afraid because we know quite well that we are not among the states that share in dividends of oil money. We know quite well that we are at the back when it comes to federal allocation, but His Excellency actually surprised us.

“One thing we have seen is that he understands the impact of motivation on productivity. The governor has set a pace and we know that any other person coming after him will have the challenge to meet up with the target set by His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah.”

On his part, Chairman of the Association of Local Government Workers, ALGON, Enugu State, Hon. Okechukwu Edeh, pledged the commitment of council chairmen to implementing the new minimum wage.

“When you motivate workers, they become more productive. What I am promising on behalf of the Enugu ALGON family is that we are going to cascade the new minimum wage to the local government level. Implementation begins immediately,” he said.

       Mohammed Shosanya

President Bola Tinubu has restricted members of his cabinet and heads of government parastatals to only three vehicles in their convoys.

The directive was conveyed in a statement circulated by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga on Thursday.

The statement noted that Ministers, Ministers of State, and Heads of Agencies of the Federal Government are restricted to a maximum of three vehicles in their official convoys.

He said no additional vehicles will be assigned to them for movement.

According to the presidential spokesman, Onanuga,in January this year, President Tinubu took significant steps to reduce government expenditure, by reducing his entourage on foreign trips from 50 to 20 officials. For local trips, he reduced it to 25

officials.

“He similarly reduced the Vice President’s entourage to five officials on foreign trips and 15 for local trips.

“In the directive issued today, President Tinubu also ordered all ministers, ministers of state, and heads of agencies to have at most five security personnel attached to them.

“The security team will comprise four police officers and one Department of State Services (DSS) officer.No additional security personnel will be assigned, he ordered.

“President Tinubu instructed the National Security Adviser to engage with the Military, Paramilitary and Security Agencies to determine a suitable reduction in their vehicle and security personnel deployment.

“All affected officials are expected to comply with these new measures immediately,underscoring the urgency and seriousness of these changes,” the presidency stated.

      Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal House House of Representatives has implored the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to initiate a phased withdrawal of old naira notes from circulation.

The lawmakers urged the apex bank to prioritize the availability of new naira notes in the N200, N500, and N1,000 denominations, ensuring a smooth transition for the public.

The House passed this resolution following the adoption of a motion of urgent national importance.

The motion, sponsored by Hon. Victor Ogene, member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency of Anambra State,was deliberated during Thursday’s plenary session.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had introduced new N200, N500, and N1,000 banknotes in October 2022, with the circulation of the redesigned currency beginning in December of the same year.

The Central Bank’s decision to withdraw the old currency notes faced significant resistance from millions of Nigerians, who endured severe hardships trying to obtain the scarce new notes at the time.

Sequel to a series of legal battles,the Supreme Court set a final deadline of December 31, 2024, after which the old notes will cease to be legal tender in the country.

Leading the debate,the Labour Party lawmaker highlighted the immense hardship Nigerians endured due to the decision to redesign the naira, pointing out that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s failure to adequately circulate the new notes nearly plunged the country into a crisis.

Referring to the Supreme Court’s ruling, the lawmaker emphasized that the N200, N500, and N1,000 notes would cease to be legal tender and a medium of exchange in Nigeria starting January 1, 2025. “With just two months remaining until the deadline, the CBN has yet to demonstrate any readiness to properly sensitise Nigerians on the implications of this transition,” Ogene warned.

He cautioned that Nigerians could face a chaotic situation similar to the one experienced in February 2023, when the old N200, N500, and N1,000 notes were withdrawn from circulation as legal tender. With the deadline set for January 1, 2025, these denominations will no longer be accepted for goods and services.

He further argued that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should have begun a robust public awareness campaign at least three months prior to the deadline. This campaign, he suggested, should include jingles, television and radio announcements, social media posts, flyers, and newspaper publications to inform and prepare the public adequately.

“He also raised concerns that, instead of a gradual phase-out, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) continues to release the old N200, N500, and N1,000 notes alongside the newly redesigned currencies for daily business transactions across the country.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House referred the matter to its Committee on Banking Regulations for further legislative review and action.

       Mohammed Shosanya

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC Limited) reports that it lost contact with the Helicopter, with Registration Number: 5NBQG, which took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO –NUIMS ANTAN on the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22am.

In a statement signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, the Company disclosed that there were 8 persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members) in the helicopter which it engaged, adding that the appropriate authorities have been contacted, including the Ministry of Aviation, who have since issued a press statement.

The company also assured that search and rescue missions are currently ongoing.

It said so far,three bodies have been recovered, and that regular updates shall be provided as the events unfold.

“We lost contact with the Helicopter –Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO –NUIMS ANTAN.

“Search and rescue missions are currently ongoing. So far, three (3) bodies have been recovered.

“We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold. Our prayers are with the passengers, crew and their respective families at this very difficult time. We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation” the statement added.

         Mohammed Shosanya

The Federal House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to direct the Federal Ministry of Power, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), all electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos), and other relevant agencies to urgently place public tertiary institutions on the Service-Based Tariff (SBT) of Band “C” or lower to ensure affordable electricity rates

It also mandated the Committees on Power, Tertiary Education, and Services to engage with relevant stakeholders and ensure compliance with this resolution.

The committees are to report back to the House within four (4) weeks for further legislative action.

The resolutions of the House were sequel to the adoption of a motion brought by Hon. Abubakar Hassan Fulata, member representing Birniwa/Guri/Kiri Federal constituency of Gigawa State under the platform of the All Progressive Congress.

The lawmaker noted that tertiary education is an invaluable tool for socio-economic development, contributing significantly to national progress.

He also noted that public institutions in Nigeria offer education at minimal charges, and most students struggle to afford even these fees. Consequently, attempts by these institutions to increase fees have consistently met with strong resistance from the student population.

Hon. Fulata said: ” The House is concerned that due to inadequate funding by the Federal Government, public institutions are unable to function optimally. The recent hike in electricity tariffs and the subsequent power cuts for defaulting institutions have plunged many into total darkness, threatening the integrity of vital equipment and compromising the safety of students and staff.

“Further concerned that the inability to use essential learning tools has provoked student unrest, leading to the closure of affected institutions and a disruption in academic activities.

“The House is worried that the continued suspension of academic operations could exacerbate frustration among students, potentially leading to grave socio-economic consequences and instability.

“The House is aware that Section 14 (2)(b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary responsibility of the government. Moreover, Section 18 (1) of the Constitution mandates the Federal Government to ensure equal and adequate educational opportunities at all levels.

He said the House is disturbed that if immediate steps are not taken to restore power and make electricity affordable for public institutions, these institutions may be forced to raise fees to meet rising electricity costs. This could result in further violent resistance from students, with potentially dire consequences for national peace and stability.

Following the adoption of the motion, the House urged immediate restoration of power to public tertiary institutions that have been cut off, enabling the continuation of academic activities and safeguarding the security and welfare of students and staff.

      Mohammed Shosanya

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND),says his agency has so far received over 350,000 applications and disbursed more than N10 billion to Nigerian students.

 He added that NELFUND has committed to disbursing N90 billion in tuition fees and stipends to further support beneficiaries.

He spoke on Wednesday during a maiden meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing.

According to him, “Applications are pouring in at an impressive rate of over 1,000 per day, with special provisions being made for students living with disabilities. We are also committed to tackling the barriers to girl-child education, as denying girls the opportunity for further education is tantamount to denying the nation the chance to harness their remarkable leadership potential.”

He emphasized that the Fund is an institution established to provide relief to ordinary citizens, particularly during these challenging economic times, in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

This initiative is not merely a short-term palliative but a comprehensive solution aimed at fostering stability and growth in Nigeria’s diverse landscape.

“This administration, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has introduced several commendable policies, among which the student loan initiative stands out. It is making an impact across all regions of the country, East, West, North, and South.”

“This policy is not discriminatory; it is inclusive, ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of location or background, has access to the education they deserve.

“It is akin to monumental policies such as the free education program of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) by Gen Yakubu Gowon, and the creation of federal universities.

“These policies have shaped Nigeria’s development, and the student loan initiative is equally progressive, representing an investment in our nation’s future.

“We have also been proactive in reaching out to segments of the nation that feel left behind- particularly the South East. I am pleased to report that my team and I have made significant progress in engaging these communities, with multiple rounds of sensitization in the region, resulting in a surge in applications,” he said .

He further said the Fund is committed to working closely and harmoniously with the committee.

Sawyerr said it is only through cooperation and peaceful collaboration can they achieve the best possible outcomes for Nigeria and its students.

“In this regard, NELFUND will also be working closely with the National Assembly in the area of sensitization, recognizing that you are closest to the people and best positioned to reach your constituents.

“A comprehensive work plan will be developed to guide our efforts, ensuring that we engage effectively at all levels to make certain that no student is left behind.

“One of the steps we have taken to strengthen our partnership is the upcoming retreat for the joint committee in the first week of November. This retreat will provide us with the opportunity to interface and sensitize lawmakers on our activities and objectives.

“It will also allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the workings of the National Assembly and the peculiar needs of various constituencies across the country. This collaboration is crucial in shaping a student loan system that truly serves the interests of all Nigerians.

“As we continue to work together, let us remember that our collective goal is the good of Nigeria and its youth. By ensuring that education remains accessible and equitable, we are not only securing the future of millions of young Nigerians, but we are also building a stronger, more prosperous nation,” he said.

Chairman of the Committee, Hon Gboyega Isiaka, said NELFUND is a very critical agency created not only to provide loans, but it’s about creating a future where every Nigerian youth has the opportunity to realise their potentials and contribute to the nation’s growth.

He said the Committee was concerned about the ability of the management to manage the enterprise, which has so much potential.

“Therefore, as we progress into proper oversighting of this institution, we are going to be concerned with so many things. We want, for example, to be able to tell ourselves where will NELFUND be within the next three to five years? How is it going to get there? And what are the issues that we need to address in order for them to get there?” he said.

He said the Committee was committed to ensuring accountability and transparency of the Fund.

“As a committee, we are committed to fulfilling our responsibilities in alignment with the directives from the Speaker and the House leadership. Our goal is to collaborate closely with the executive branch, as well as the management and board of this company, to ensure that the objectives for its establishment are realized.

“We also expect to operate within the confines of the law, ensuring that we address the aspirations and expectations of the Nigerian people, particularly the youth,” he stated.

        Mohammed Shosanya

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun,has approved the teaching of sex education and anti-corruption education to new recruits in the Nigeria Police Force.

This was contained in a statement sent to newsmen by the Force Spokesperson, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

According to the statement,the IGP approved the implementation of a Revised Training Curriculum for all police recruits, a significant step towards enhancing the professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force.

“This new training curricular, when fully implemented would prepare the recruits for the challenges to be faced in the course of policing a complex society like Nigeria, and how to best execute their duties in line with international best practices.

“The revised curriculum introduces a comprehensive array of training topics, which includes.The Police Act 2020, to familiarize trainees with the latest legal framework guiding police operations.

“The Nigeria Police Force Social Media Policy, to help trainees understand social media conduct and the role of social media in policing and communication, Computer Studies, Gender Mainstreaming and Education.

“Sex education, anti-corruption laws,training on harassment and gender-based crimes,discrimination against persons with disabilities Prohibition Act, Election Security (Electoral Act 2022),core principles of Public Relations and Public Speaking, Cartography,Map Reading, Human Relations, Report Writing, Cybercrime Act 2015, Combat Crafts, Artificial Intelligence, Attitudinal and Behavioral Changes and Public Conduct”

The implementation of this revised curriculum, the statement showed is in line with the IGP’s dedication to intellectual and capacity building within the Nigeria Police Force.

“By addressing critical areas of training, the IGP aims to improve the optimal performance level, professionalism, and community-oriented approach of new recruits, preparing them to effectively discharge their duties within the ambit of the Law.

“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to continuous improvement and sensitization of its officers, ensuring that they are not only well-trained but also equipped with the prerequisite knowledge and skills required to effectively meet the high demands of Policing in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, to achieve a crime free society we deserve.”