All Posts in "Day: November 8, 2024"

NNPCL,Partners Inaugurate Mammography Centre To Fight Cancer

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), along with its partners – TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited, SAPETRO, CNOOC, and PRIME 130 – has inaugurated a cutting-edge mammography centre at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Lafia, Nasarawa State in furtherance of its war against cancer.

 

 

 

The centre is part of a strategic push by NNPC Ltd to improve access to early cancer detection and treatment to tackle the high mortality rate in Nigeria,Olufemi Soneye,the image-make of NNPC Ltd, said in a statement on Friday.

 

 

 

The centre,which is the second – one Mammography Centre had earlier been commissioned at Garkida General Hospital, Gombi Local Government Area, Adamawa – along with the series of free cancer screening programmes by the NNPC Foundation.

 

 

 

 

At the commissioning of the facility, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti, who was represented by the Head Business Services, Mr. Sani Kabo, said the mammography centre was a symbol of NNPC Ltd.’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of healthcare in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

Wunti,the statement said,emphasized that the facility was in total alignment with the NNPC Ltd.’s GCEO, Mr Mele Kyari’s vision of improved medical system in Nigeria, adding: “It is our hope that under the stewardship of the state government, this facility will become a beacon of comfort and a critical resource for timely diagnosis and treatment of cancer.”

 

 

 

 

The Managing Director/Chief Executive and Country Chair of TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited (TUPNI), Mr. Matthieu Bouyer, who was represented by the Acting General Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility, Mrs. Tonye Osifo, said TotalEnergies was committed to addressing healthcare challenges through strategic partnerships.

 

 

 

“This mammography centre is among 84 infrastructural projects TotalEnergies has delivered since 2016. It signifies our active role in the global fight against cancer and reflects our alignment with the #WorkingWithCancer initiative, which supports recovery and retention for individuals affected by cancer,” Bouyer stated.

 

 

 

 

 

The mammography centre is equipped with advanced features like Senographe Pristina 3D mammography system, digital breast tomosynthesis, stereotactic biopsy capabilities, and can undertake over 120 examinations daily, significantly boosting the diagnostic capacity in Nasarawa State and the North Central region.

 

 

 

 

The facility also has treatment rooms, a dedicated office for radiologists, and a 20- person capacity waiting area that provides a comfortable and efficient environment for both patients and staff.

 

 

 

 

 

The statement quoted that the NNPC Limited and its partners will continue to deliver community-focused projects that enhance the quality of life across Nigeria.

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Health 0
Stop Using Camp Boys At Checkpoints,Customs Boss Warns

       Mohammed Shosanya

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale, has cautioned customs officers nationwide to avoid engaging camp boys at checkpoints.

The CG, represented by Assistant Controller General Zone B, Sambo Kaliyal Dangaladima gave the warning during a visit to the Kebbi State Area Command in Birnin Kebbi.

He emphasized the risks involved in the practice.

The visit aimed to provide a morale boost and prepare officers for the upcoming Customs conference in Abuja.

He urged officers to maintain professional conduct, respect citizens’ rights, and prioritise their safety.

He warned that using camp boys for errands could compromise security, as these individuals may act as informants for criminals and smugglers.

Dangaladima further assured that the Customs Service, under CG Adewale’s leadership, is committed to enhancing the welfare of its officers and men.

He said that camp boys are illegal and  not recognised by customs across the country,adding that their activities  are inimical to security at borders and check points

He said: ” Customs officers are hereby warned to desist forthwith from using them as errand boys as they grow to look like Customs officers to unsuspecting members of the public”.

The ACG commissions an e-library and a football pitch in Kebbi Command.

The Kebbi Command Comptroller of Customs, mister Earnest Ihejirike told the visitor that the football pitch is meant to keep officers and men of the command fit .

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Maritime 0
33m Nigerians Will Face Hunger,Malnutrition Next Year-Report

          Mohammed Shosanya

The Food and Agriculture Organisation(FAO), UNICEF and World Food Programme(WFP) said the economic hardship, climate change and violence in the Northeast region are projected to push 33.1million Nigerians into food insecurity next year.

A statement issued by Chi Lael, Head of Communications and Media, United Nations World Food Programme (WFP),Nigeria Country Office, said a new assessment has found that a staggering 33 million people will face acute food insecurity in Nigeria in 2025, with the number of people facing emergency levels of need projected to almost double.

Lael quoted that food insecurity and malnutrition analysis, Cadre Harmonisé, led by the Government of Nigeria and supported by partners, alerts on the deterioration of food security in Nigeria with 33.1 million people expected to face high levels of acute food insecurity during the coming lean season (June-August).

“This represents an alarming rise of 7 million people from the same period last year, driven by economic hardship, coupled with record high inflation, the effects of climate change and persistent violence in the northeastern states of the country.

“Between October and December 2024, 25.1 million people are likely experiencing acute food insecurity even at the peak of the harvest season.

“Of this, 3.8 million live in the northeastern states. This number is projected to rise to 5 million.Nationally, the number of people experiencing Emergency levels (Phase 4) of food insecurity is projected to increase from 1 million people in the peak of the 2024 lean season to 1.8 million people at the same period in 2025, representing a worrying 80 percent rise.

“Approximately 5.4 million children and nearly 800,000 pregnant and breastfeeding women are at risk of acute malnutrition or wasting from six of the most affected states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe in the northeast, and Sokoto, Katsina and Zamfara in the northwest.

“Of these, an alarming 1.8 million children could face Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) and require critical nutrition treatment.”

The statement noted that Nigeria grapples with economic hardship, coupled with record high inflation (which reached 40.9 percent for food, and 34.2 percent for all items in June 2024).

This is a record increase in food prices amid record high transportation costs.

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the price of beans in October 2024 was 282 percent above the same period in 2023. 

The statement explained that the price of local rice rises by 153 percent compared to October last year.

“These economic shocks resulted in the continuous devaluation of the local currency (Naira) against the United States Dollar (USD), external economic factors, and last year’s policy changes on discontinuation of the fuel subsidy.

“Other major factors driving food insecurity in the country include the effects of climate change, particularly floods, which directly impact the rising costs of both food and essential non-food commodities and services.

“From 1 to 15 October 2024 alone, FAO recorded that the floods affected over 9.2 million people and submerged 4.5 million hectares of land, including approximately 1.6 million hectares of farmland. Analyses indicate that due to the extent and persistence of the floods, the potential annual production losses for maize, sorghum and rice combined in the flooded areas, could be about 1.1 million tonnes.

“This could feed 13 million people for a year. In financial terms, the potential cereal crop losses amount to almost USD 1 billion in economic losses.”

Lael pointed out that persistent violence in the northeastern states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) hinders food availability and access, adding that “armed banditry and kidnappings in the northwest and farmer-herder conflict in the northcentral states, including Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, Benue, Plateau and Niger, exacerbate the prevailing economic struggles.”

The statement explained that trend analyses for the northeastern states indicate consistently high or rising food insecurity levels since 2018, noting that the number of people requiring urgent assistance has risen by at least 4 million annually during the lean season since June 2020.

“Furthermore, the northwest and parts of the north-central regions now exhibit critical levels of severe food insecurity and malnutrition, marking them as major hunger hotspots that demand attention from decision makers” Lael said.

 FAO Representative ad interim in Nigeria and to ECOWAS, Dominique Koffy Kouacou, expressed FAO’s continued commitment to supporting Nigeria.

“Working closely with our partners, FAO is dedicated to implementing durable solutions that tackle the underlying causes of food insecurity and malnutrition.

“By enhancing agri-food systems, we strive to meet urgent needs while promoting long-term, sustainable progress for communities,” Koffy said.

 Highlighting the long-standing issue, David Stevenson, WFP’s Country Representative, said, “The hunger crisis in Nigeria is fueled by the ongoing conflict in the northeast and needs to be urgently addressed.

“Restoring peace in the northeast is critical for us to build pathways to production and achieve the northeast’s potential as the food basket of the country”.

 UNICEF’s Country Representative, Ms. Cristian Munduate, emphasised the urgent need for action.

She said, “Children are at the centre of the food insecurity crisis and face irreversible consequences – both physical and cognitive, and potentially even death.

“It is our moral imperative to ensure that the right of every child to adequate food and nutrition is upheld.”

The United Nations,urged the Nigerian government, donors, and stakeholders to commit resources and implement measures to avert a potential food and nutrition disaster, emphasising the need for immediate multi-sectoral support across the nation.

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in News 0
Cadbury Nigeria Harvests Awards,Promises Improved Workforce

 

       Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Cadbury Nigeria Plc,a subsidiary of Mondelēz International,has been named the overall winner of the HR Best Practices Awards 2024 at the prestigious Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) HR Oscar Awards, which held in Abuja,recently.

 

 

 

The awards celebrate excellence in human resource practice and the delivery of the people’s agenda.

 

 

 

 

Cadbury Nigeria also received the 2024 HR Optimisation Award in two other categories namely Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives, which recognises innovation in the Company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offerings and initiatives in the past year; and Adoption of Technology/Digital HR Initiatives that also recognises technological innovation and HR service delivery through technology.

 

 

 

 

The evaluation for this award is based on the company’s HR strategies and processes in 13 HR practice areas that include Strategic HR;Talent Acquisition;Talent Development;Performance Management;Diversity,Equity,and Inclusion (DEI); Compensation,Rewards and Benefits; and Employee Engagement and Internal Communication, to mention a few, a statement said.

 

 

 

 

Cadbury Nigeria had earlier bagged four awards at the 9th edition of the HR People Magazine Awards,which was held in Lagos,recently.

 

 

 

 

The awards seek to promote excellence in the HR profession and recognise the top people, initiatives, and strategies put in place by various organisations.

 

 

 

Cadbury Nigeria won in the following categories: Employer of Choice (under 1000 employees),Outstanding Employee Engagement (under 1000 employees), Outstanding Talent Management Strategy, and Best Training, Learning and Development (under 1000 employees).

 

 

 

Oyeyimika Adeboye, Managing Director, Cadbury Nigeria, and Wole Odubayo, Human Resources Director of the Company, also received Commendation as “HR Champion 2024,” and “HR Leader 2024,” respectively.

 

 

 

Speaking on the awards,Adeboye said: “We believe in continuously raising the bar as we strive to equip our workforce to become more relevant in the modern technologically driven world.”

 

 

 

 

Odubayo added: “We take pride in our end-to-end HR strategies and processes, and we leverage technology to deliver value to our employees.”

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Next Level 0
Global Oil Demand To Hit 120.1mbpd By 2050-OPEC

     Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

Global oil demand is projected to reach 120.1 million barrels per day (BPD) by 2050, while energy demand will rise 24% during the same period, says the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais.

 

 

 

In a keynote address at the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2024 conference, Al Ghais said that African producers will play a central role in meeting rising demand.

 

 

 

“Demand will be fueled by a world economy that is expected to be more than double in size to more than $360 trillion by 2050. Driving this economic growth is the rapidly expanding world population, expected to reach 9.7 billion from the current 8 billion. Urbanization globally will continue to intensify. Over 600 million people are expected to move to new cities around the world, including Africa,” he said.

 

 

He drew insight into OPEC’s recently-launched World Oil Outlook (WOO).

 

 

 

 

Launched in September 2024, the 18th edition of the WOO featured a review and assessment of the medium- and long-term prospects for the global oil and energy sectors.

 

 

The publication offers a comprehensive analysis of global supply and demand dynamics while taking into account the interplay between energy security, energy affordability and the need to reduce emissions.

 

 

For Africa, which faces an energy crisis with over 600 million people lacking access to electricity and over 900 million people lacking access to clean cooking solutions, increasing oil and gas production is a fundamental requirement. As such, Al Ghais emphasizes the need to increase investment in oil and gas.

 

 

“Oil and gas will remain the predominant fuels in the energy mix. To ensure security of supply to fuel this demand, our industries need to invest and boost investment levels significantly in the years to come,” he explained.

 

 

 

Al Ghais disclosed that “For Africa, the future looks bright. It has an estimated 125 billion barrels of proven reserves of oil. It is vital that African countries develop these resources with access to the necessary funding and technology.

 

 

 

He added:”This is vital for the economic and social development of the continent and its people.”

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
Military To Terrorists:Surrender Or Die

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ),has told terrorists commanders and combatants to surrender or be killed by troops of the armed forces of Nigeria in war.

 

 

 

The military authority also said troops have killed 481 terrorists in the month of October.

 

 

 

This was disclosed  by the Director, Defence Media Operations (DMO), Major General Edward Buba during the biweekly media briefing on troops operational successes across the nation.

 

 

 

 

He said:”Troops have done a tremendous job of significantly dismantling the terror groups across the country, in various theatres of operations.Our strategy remains to undermine the ability of these terror groups and their cohorts.

 

 

 

 

“Troops conducted simultaneous strikes on several terrorist enclaves and hideouts across the country.The Airforce carried out bombardments and air interdiction on these terrorist hideouts and enclaves with precision, thereby diminishing the fighting capabilities of these terrorists.

 

 

 

 

“Truly, the terrorist knows that they cannot match our military strength. The options open to them are to surrender or be killed in the battlefield.”

 

 

 

 

He revealed  that”some terrorist leaders, commanders and combatants have indicated to surrender. We are opening a surrendering  corridor for that purpose.”

 

 

 

 

He also stated that, “In October 2024, troops neutralized 481 terrorists. Other details are that, troops arrested 741 persons including terrorists.Troops also rescued 492 kidnapped hostages.”

 

 

 

 

He said:”Troops recovered 480 weapons and 9,026 assorted ammunitions. Whilst they denied the oil theft of an estimated sum of close to  N4bn (N3,896,400.960.00) only.

 

 

 

 

“Breakdown for the month of October includes and is not limited to the following: 263 AK47 rifles, 81 locally fabricated guns, 91 dane guns, 76 pump action guns, 5,683 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 1,944 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 642 cartridges, 160 assorted arms and 1,526 assorted ammunitions. Others are 3,226,645 litres of stolen crude oil, 763,860 litres of illegally refined AGO and 12,690 litres of PMS amongst other item.

 

 

 

“On the whole, even as the armed forces mourn the tragic passing away of the COAS, Lt Gen TA Lagbaja. We will not allow his passing to derail our focus to destroy the terrorists. We are rather inspired by his actions on the battlefield as a war commander as well as his strong desire to defeat the terrorist in order to end the war.”

 

 

 

 

He emphasized  that the military will continue to work decisively to kill the terrorists,stop the insecurity in the nation and ensure the safety of citizens.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in News 0
Access Bank UK Unveils Hong Kong Branch

 

     Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Access Bank UK Limited has announced the official opening of its Hong Kong branch .

 

 

 

The expansion represents a key milestone in the bank’s global growth strategy and underscores our commitment to serving clients in the Asia-Pacific region, a statement said on Friday.

 

 

 

 

According to the statement,the launch of the Hong Kong branch establishes The Access Bank UK Limited as the first West African bank to enter the territory, a groundbreaking move to facilitate and accelerate trade flows between Asia and Africa. .

 

 

 

 

The bank said,through its presence in Hong Kong, The Access Bank UK Limited will capitalise on the expanding economic partnership between Asia and Africa, supporting the increasing flow of trade between these regions.

 

 

 

 

The statement quoted that opening the branch in Hong Kong is a pivotal step in our international expansion. As the first West African bank to establish a presence here, it signifies a major achievement.

 

 

 

 

Speaking at the ceremony,Ambassador Oludare E. Folowosele, Consul General of the Consulate General of The Federal Republic of Nigeria, said, “I am delighted to celebrate today the opening of a Restricted Licence Bank in Hong Kong in the name of The Access Bank UK Limited. This is a huge milestone in the development of trade flows between Asia and Africa as the first West African banking group to attain this status. This also aligns perfectly well onto the Belt and Road initiatives between China and Africa where we see growing potentials for business flows between the two countries.”

 

 

 

Jamie Simmonds, Founding Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of The Access Bank UK Limited, expressed his commitment for this strategic initiative.

 

 

 

 

He said:”In recent years, Asia has emerged as Africa’s largest trading region driven by programs like the Belt and Road Initiative. In 2023, China-Africa trade reached an all-time high of USD 282.1 billion, reflecting a 1.5% year-on-year growth. As Asia-Africa economic relations enter a new phase, the timing of our Hong Kong branch launch is ideal to meet the financing and banking needs of our clients in these expanding markets.”

 

 

 

Ernest Law, Managing Director & Chief Executive of The Access Bank UK Limited – Hong Kong Branch, commented, “We are delighted to establish the Hong Kong branch as a key element of The Access Bank UK Limited’s ongoing growth and international expansion strategy. This new branch will enable us to engage more closely with our clients in Hong Kong and strengthen our capacity to provide tailored financial solutions across the region.”

 

 

 

The Access Bank UK Limited – Hong Kong Branch, headed by Ernest Law, will focus on international trade finance and commercial banking. The Hong Kong branch is expected to initially employ circa 25 people however this will grow with controlled expansion over time.

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Banking&Finance 0
Transportation:Backbone Of The Tourism Industry

 

Wale Ojo-Lanre Esq., 

 

 

Tourism is a powerful driver of economic growth,social development, and cultural exchange worldwide.It showcases the essence of destinations, inviting global travelers to experience unique landscapes, historical landmarks, cuisines, and traditions.

 

 

 

 

 

Yet,one of the most essential pillars of this industry is often overlooked: transportation. Without a robust, accessible, and efficient transportation infrastructure, the tourism industry cannot thrive. Transportation is indeed the backbone of tourism, a critical link between the destinations and the travelers who wish to explore them.

 

 

 

The connection between transportation and tourism is like a siamese issue or the essence of the soul and the body .

 

 

 

 

The soul needs the body to survive while the body needs the soul to thrive.

 

 

 

Transportation enables the movement of people from their homes to tourism destinations and facilitates exploration within those locations. It transforms the idea of travel into reality, making it possible for tourists to reach urban and rural areas alike, thereby unlocking opportunities for economies on both ends of the spectrum.

 

 

 

 

From flights and railways to buses, cars, and even bicycle paths, the network of transportation allows tourism destinations to reach a global audience, bridging distances and cultures.

 

 

 

In countries where transportation is efficient, affordable, and reliable, tourism flourishes. An excellent example of this connection is the success of high-speed rail in Europe, the ICE – Train of 250 kmph which has significantly boosted intra-regional tourism in Europe.

 

 

 

 

 

Similarly,air travel networks allow island nations, often reliant on tourism, to maintain strong connections with the rest of the world.Tourists are drawn not only to the allure of a place but to the convenience and comfort of reaching it.

 

 

 

Efficient Transportation contributes to rapid tourism growth,improving transportation infrastructure is vital to unleashing the tourism potential of rural and underdeveloped areas.

 

 

 

Many cultural sites, natural reserves, and heritage locations remain under-visited due to poor road networks and limited access options. By investing in better roads, more efficient public transportation, and air connections, we not only increase local accessibility but also appeal to international tourists eager to explore less-traveled destinations.

 

 

 

 

The transformative power of transportation in Ekiti State is particularly relevant, as the state boasts rich historical landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant festivals. Initiatives like the , Ekiti State Festival of Arts ,EKIFEST ,Ekiti Cultural Tourism Carnival, ECTC,Udiroko Festival , Okorobo Festival highlight the potential of tourism to bring in diverse visitors. 

 

 

 

 

However, to accommodate and attract larger numbers,Governor of the State H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has state prioritized transportation development.

 

 

 

The Ekiti State Cargo Airport would soon be in operation, roads leading to tourism sites are being rehabilitated ,well-maintained to  enabling the seamless movement of tourists between attractions such as Ikogosi Warm Springs, Ero Dam, and our scenic rolling hills.

 

 

The economic impact of Transportation on Tourism can never be over flogged.

 

 

The tourism economy is complex, as it involves various stakeholders from hoteliers to local artisans, restaurants, and retail businesses. Transportation integrates these stakeholders, linking them together in a system that enhances the visitor experience. 

 

 

 

Accessible transportation increases tourist spending, extends visitor stay periods, and fosters the discovery of lesser-known attractions. When tourists can navigate easily and explore more regions, local economies benefit from their extended presence, as spending on accommodation, dining, and shopping increases.

 

 

 

 

Moreover,transportation infrastructure development creates jobs, not only within the tourism sector but also in construction, maintenance, and management roles. Investment in transportation is, therefore, a means to stimulate local economies, as it leads to job creation and the circulation of wealth in communities that may otherwise remain isolated.

 

 

 

 

In modern tourism development, it’s crucial to align transportation with sustainability goals. The ecological impact of tourism is a concern that must be addressed through greener transportation solutions,thank God , Nigeria is talking and walking on eco- friendly transportation system,gas propelled vehicles,electric buses and cars , eco-friendly rail systems, and policies that encourage carpooling and non-motorized travel where feasible.

 

 

These solutions can help reduce carbon emissions, protect natural resources, and preserve the environment that tourists come to enjoy.

 

 

 

In Ekiti State, the State Governor ,H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is promoting environmentally friendly transportation options. The state has acquired CNG vehicles and a CNG conversion center has been opened in Ekiti State .

 

 

 

Also,some of the government’s buses being used as palliative items are being converted to CNG.This is adding  value to the tourism experience of visitors who are increasingly seek destinations committed to sustainable practices. The state is  leveraging in  eco-tourism by integrating this green transport options to create a sustainable tourism model, aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship.

 

 

 

For Nigeria to fully harness its tourism potential, transportation must remain a top priority. Collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local governments, as well as private sector partnerships, can catalyze the development of modern transportation systems, making Nigeria more accessible, attractive, and competitive on the global tourism map.

 

 

 

In Ekiti State, the State Governor  ,H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is committed to exploring innovative solutions to improve accessibility, enhance the visitor experience, and make tourism a cornerstone of our economy.

 

 

 

As the tourism industry continues to evolve, transportation must adapt to meet new challenges and trends, ensuring that visitors enjoy seamless, comfortable, and sustainable travel experiences.

 

 

 

At the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development,we recognize transportation as a foundational element of our tourism strategy and remain dedicated to creating pathways that will bring travelers from around the world closer to the beauty and heritage of Ekiti.

 

 

 

Transportation is not just a means to an end in the tourism industry; it is the very foundation that upholds it. Through continued investment and innovation in transportation infrastructure, we can unlock new possibilities for tourism, fostering economic resilience and cultural pride in Nigeria’s vibrant landscapes.

 

…..this article is written by Wale Ojo-Lanre Esq Director General Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development in honour of Mr Kayode Olagunju, Assistant Chief  Corps Marshall ,(rtd) of the Federal Road Safety Corps ,FRSC ,who visited Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism and Chief Abiodun Ogunsanwo,President , Institute of Tourism Professionals in Nigeria, ITPN  and promoter Tourism Transportation Summit.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Opinion 0
Oyebanji Approves N1bn Pension Arrears For Ekiti Retirees

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has released the sum of one billion naira as gratuity to state pensioners.

 

 

 

 

He also approved payment of two months pension arrears to local government pensioners,according to Yinka Oyebode,Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor,

 

 

 

Oyebode,in a statement said this is coming barely a month after the Governor distributed a total N3.5 billion in gratuity cheques to retirees in the state, in a bold effort aimed at offseting the backlog of outstanding gratuities.

 

 

 

 

He also quoted that Governor Oyebanji, has approved payment of two months outstanding subvention to Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and one month outstanding subvention each to Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti; Bamidele Olomilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti; and College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero- Ekiti.

 

 

 

One month outstanding subvention has also been approved for the Judiciary in the state.

 

 

The payments are in fulfilment of the Governor’s promise to priortise welfare and wellbeing of workers and retirees and ensure that all outstanding entitlements of workers and pensioners owed by previous administrations are paid to them in line with the continuity and shared prosperity agenda of the administration.

 

 

 

The Governor implored workers in the state to remain focused on excellent service delivery, assuring them of his administration’s commitment to their welfare as well as payment of all their entitlements.

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Labour/Human Resources 0
Flood:NNPC,SPDC Donate US$1m To Borno Victims 

       Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC JV) – Operator of the NNPC Limited, SPDC, TotalEnergies and Nigerian Agip Oil Company Joint Venture– has donated  US$1 million to support efforts to provide relief to over half a million people displaced in flood impacted communities of Borno State.

 

 

 

 

The donation will go into the procurement and distribution of relief materials and medical supplies for displaced residents who are now in urgent need of critical aid,” the  Managing Director, SPDC, and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor.

 

 

He added that a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), local to the region with understanding of working with displaced people, will manage the distribution of the materials in collaboration with the Borno State Emergency Management Agency.

 

 

 

 

According to him,the SPDC JV intervention was in response to the alert issued in September by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), following the significant rise in water levels caused by the overflowing of the Alau Dam, and the calls for support by Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum.

 

 

 

 

“We consider providing this support to be of necessity to demonstrate our commitment to our society and the duty of care to our people. It expresses our deep concern for the victims of the devastating floods in Borno State,” Okunbor said.

 

 

 

 

He noted that the SPDC Joint Venture’s gesture is a continuation of similar assistance given over the years to the region that is recovering from recent conflicts.

 

 

 

Chief Upstream Operating Officer of the NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Bala Wunti, in a statement, added, “The urgency in providing this relief is important given the region’s existing vulnerabilities, with people recently barely recovering from conflict-induced displacement. The flooding has severely disrupted socio-economic activities, with women and children being disproportionately affected and we are glad that the joint venture is able to provide succour at this time.”

 

 

 

Wunti said, “As a responsible corporate organization, NNPC is glad to support the SPDC Joint Venture in this essential activity. Our thoughts are with those affected and with the government agencies working tirelessly to provide relief. We pledge to support ongoing efforts through immediate humanitarian aid and long-term partnerships for sustainable recovery.”

Online Editor by — November 8, 2024 in Environment 0