All Posts in "Month: November 2024"

NERC To DisCos:Stop Billing Customers For Replacement Of Faulty Meters

     Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission,says  electricity distribution companies must replace the obsolete and faulty prepaid meters without any charge or cost

 

 

The agency clarified that a situation where the Discos are asking customers to pay for replacement of obsolete and faulty meters breaches Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry Act.

 

 

In a statement on Monday,NERC implores  customers to report cases of DisCos’ non-compliance to the act for requisite prosecution.

 

 

 

NERC,the statement said,is aware that some Distribution Companies (DisCos) have instructed customers to apply and pay for the replacement of faulty and obsolete meters within their franchise areas.

 

 

It explained that this instruction contravenes the Commission’s Order No. NERC/246/2021 on the Structured Replacement of Faulty and Obsolete end-use Customer Meters in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry.

 

 

It added:”The order clearly states that no customer with a meter should be forcefully migrated to estimated billing.

 

 

“If any customer’s meter is adjudged by any DisCo to be obsolete or faulty, it is the responsibility of the DisCo to replace the meter free of charge, provided that the fault was not caused by the customer.

 

 

“The Commission restates its commitment to protect customers’ interests and rights by ensuring compliance with established regulatory standards and enforcing regulatory penalties for non-compliance by its licensees.

 

 

 

“We urge customers to report cases of non-compliance to the order by any DisCo through the following channels: 07000 CALL NERC (07000 2255 6372); 0201 344 4331; 0908 899 9244. Email: complaints@nerc.gov.ng”.

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in Power 0
Keynote Speaker Arrives For Realnews 12th Anniversary Lecture

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Karim El Aynaoui, Executive President of the Policy Center for the New South,in Rabat, Morocco, who is the keynote speaker at the Realnews 12th Anniversary Lecture, has arrived in Lagos, aboard Air Maroc on Monday.

 

 

 

 

El Aynaoui who was accompanied by Abdelhak Bassou, senior fellow at the Policy Center for the New South, Rabat, Morocco is also the Executive Vice-President of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and Dean of its Humanities, Economics and Social Sciences Cluster.

 

 

 

 

A team of Realnews Magazine and Publication officials led by Maureen Chigbo, Publisher/Editor, was at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport to receive them.

 

 

 

 

The Realnews Lecture,which has held consecutively for 11 years beginning from 2014 will centre on “Africa in world shifting geopolitics, matters arising on democracy, technology, artificial intelligence, natural resources” and will be held at the Sheraton Hotel, Lagos, on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.

 

 

 

His contributions at the Policy Center for the New South, pcns, a Moroccan Think Tank that works to improve social and economic public policies in Africa and the Global South makes him a perfect fit for this year’s theme.

 

 

 

He is an economist. From 2005 to 2012, he worked at the Central Bank of Morocco where he held the position of director of economics, statistics, and international relations.

 

 

 

 

At the Central Bank of Morocco,he was in charge of the research department and equally a member of the governor’s cabinet. Previously, he worked for eight years at the World Bank as an economist for its regional units of the Middle East and North Africa and Africa.

 

 

 

 

 

El Aynaoui has published books and journal articles on macroeconomic issues in developing countries. His recent research has been focused on growth and the labour market in Morocco, as well as on reforming international development economy.

 

 

 

EL Aynaoui holds scientific and advisory positions at various institutions. He is currently a member of the Malabo Montpellier Panel, the scientific committee of the Italian Institute for International Political Studies, the scientific council of the Moroccan Capital Market Authority, the International Board of Leonardo Medor Foundation, the advisory council of the School of Global Affairs and Public Policy of the American University of Cairo, Morocco’s Chapter of the Confrérie des Compagnons de Gutenberg. He serves as advisor to the CEO and Chairman of OCP Group and is a board member of OCP Foundation.

 

 

 

 

He holds a Phd in economics from the University of Bordeaux in France where he taught courses in statistics and economics for three years and he is also a Commendatore of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

 

 

 

Realnews,a general interest magazine,is an online publication that thrives on investigative journalism.

 

 

 

 

A statement said,”We have expertise in reporting the oil and gas sector with its attendant environmental challenges. We aim to unearth exclusive stories about real people and the challenges they face in their day-to-day activities. We do this bearing in mind that government can only act to influence the lives of people positively if they are aware of their true situation. Hence, our objective is to use our investigative skills to ferret out information in the sectors we focus on and produce an unbiased report that will influence the government and decision-makers to take actions that will make society better.

 

 

 

“Realnews is populated by seasoned journalists who believe strongly in the tenets and ethics of the profession. The online publication believes that journalism as the fourth estate of the realm can contribute its quota towards building a fair and just society where fundamental human rights are respected and citizens have the freedom to pursue their interests anywhere in the world without hindrance. Its editors have a combined experience of several decades in active journalism practice and are highly dedicated to serving humanity. Hence its motto: “for god and humanity.”

 

 

 

Realnews anniversary lecture series was established to commemorate the best minds in our society and to tap from them to enrich the discourse in our national development.

 

 

 

 

The 11th anniversary lecture in 2023 on the threats of illicit funds flow to the African economy was delivered by Dr. Edwin w. Harris jr., Director-General, ECOWAS Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).

 

 

 

The 10th anniversary lecture in 2022 on “Drug Abuse among Youths in Africa: Implication for Nigerian Economy and 2023 Elections” was delivered by Brig- General Buba Marwa, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA; 9th Anniversary Lecture of Realnews in 2021 was delivered by Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board on “Nigeria in the Unfolding Integration of the African Market: the oil and gas perspective”; 2020 Eighth Anniversary Lecture of Realnews was delivered by Boss Mustapha, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Taskforce on Covid-19 on Managing Covid-19 Pandemic in Africa: the Nigeria Experience; Former President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana gave the 2019 Lecture on Beyond Politics: an Economic Narrative for West Africa while Prof. Mahmood Yakubu spoke on Political transitions and Africa’s Economic Development: Preparations for Nigeria’s 2019 General Elections at the 2018 Lecture. The 2017 Fifth Anniversary Lecture on African Leadership in a Turbulent era was delivered by Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, former Minister of Education and former World Bank Vice President.

 

 

 

The 2016 Fourth Anniversary Lecture on Security and National Development in Plural Democratic Society was delivered by Dr. Mohamed ibn Chambas, former United Nations Secretary General’s Special Representative to West Africa and the Sahel; the 2015 Realnews Third Anniversary Lecture was delivered by Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on November 19, 2015, under the theme: It’s the Nigerian Economy Stupid?

 

 

 

The Second Realnews Anniversary Lecture On Nigerian Democracy: Getting It Right In 2014 was delivered by Professor Maurice Iwu, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

 

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in Media 0
NDDC Seeks Active Participation Of Women In Niger Delta Development

   Mohammed Shosanya

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has implored women to participate actively in the development of the Niger Delta region.

At a programme commemorating the 2024 International Women’s Day in Akure, Ondo State, the NDDC Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, emphasised women’s pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and urged men and women to collaborate for a prosperous society.

The programme anchored on the theme: “The Role of Women in Sustainable Development,” brought together over 200 women from across Ondo State to highlight the importance of women’s active participation in the development of the Niger Delta region.

A statement signed by Seledi Thompson-Wakama,Director,Corporate Affairs,NDDC quoted Hon. Abegunde,as  urging the participants to take full advantage of the opportunity to learn, noting that sustainable development required an inclusive approach in which all members of society would contribute to achieving common goals.

He stated: “Sustainable development is an all-inclusive process, and everyone, including women, has a significant role. When everyone fulfils their obligation to promote development, there is a greater sense of ownership, which emboldens them to defend and preserve it.

“Today, while we are focusing on the role of our women in the development of the Niger Delta region, we must all bear it in mind that every member of the society has a complementary role to play to achieve this objective. Both men and women must work together to ensure a more prosperous society for our children’s future”.

He enjoined the women to learn, unlearn,and relearn,particularly given the wealth of experience and expertise of the resource persons piloting the programme.

One of the speakers at the programme, Mrs.Justina Akeredolu,noted that women were often at the centre of grassroots community development, adding that their involvement in local initiatives in education, health, or economic projects “has a powerful impact on community resilience.”

Another speaker, Omowumi Oni,who spoke on women’s physical and mental health, urged women to take their mental health seriously. According to her, women’s physical and mental health contribute significantly to a broader societal and economic goal, stating that healthier women lead to a healthier society.

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in Niger Delta 0
Power Minister Considers Sustainable Energy Solutions For Tourism Industry

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu,is considering collaborating with the new tourism and procurement chiefs to grow the industries through sustainable energy solutions in the country.

 

 

 

He said this in a congratulatory statement to Dr. Bisoye Fagade and Adebowale Adedokun on their appointment as Directors-General (DGs) of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism and  Bureau of Public Procurement,respectively.

 

 

 

 

He added:“As Minister of Power, I look forward to collaborating with you to explore opportunities for sustainable energy solutions that will enhance the tourism experience, support the growth of the tourism industry as well as the work of the procurement bureau”.

 

 

 

 

He described the appointment of the duo as a testament of their  exceptional leadership, expertise and dedication to the country.

 

 

 

He expressed joy that the two appointees are  indigenes of Oyo State who were  found worthy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

 

 

“Those who are yet to be given appointments should therefore not lose hope as the President does not forget to reciprocate good deeds, even though competence and character are overriding factors for the benefit of the nation”, the Minister said.

 

 

 

On the new appointees,he noted,”your vision, wisdom, and commitment will undoubtedly propel the sector to new heights, fostering growth, innovation and excellence in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry”.

 

 

 

Adelabu further described the appointments as well-deserved recognition of  tireless efforts of the duo in their service to the country in their different areas of expertise.

 

 

 

“I have no doubt that the two appointees will inspire and motivate stakeholders to work together towards a common goal of making Nigeria a country we all desire”.

 

 

 

He urged the new DGs to continue to push new boundaries in the industry.

 

 

 

“As you assume this critical role,I urge you to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence. Your ability to think strategically and creatively will be invaluable in addressing the challenges facing the industry and unlocking its full potential”.

 

 

 

“I am confident that under your leadership, the National Hospitality and tourism sector and the Bureau of Public Procurement will experience unprecedented growth and development.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in Power 0
Reps Urge Increased Support For Local Refineries

         Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) Ikenga Ugochinyere,has emphasized the need for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and other relevant agencies to continue supporting local refineries in the country.

 

 

 

This will allow the refineries to thrive so that there will be an adequate supply of petroleum products as well as opening the market for socio economic prosperity of our country Nigeria,he said.

 

 

 

The Committee chairman and member representing Ideato Federal Constituency,who expressed this in a statement,commended the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari over the reorganization of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL),end of subsidy payment, increasing crude oil production and urged for more support to local refineries to consolidate and lay the foundation for sustainable energy security.

 

 

 

 

He also lauded the Kyari-led NNPCL management efforts which culminated into the end of subsidy, crude production rise and called for continuous support to local refineries to thrive.

 

 

 

 

He commended Mele Kyari on the ongoing reorganisation of the oil giant, adding that it has witnessed new reforms such as the appointment of Dapo Segun as CFO and others.

 

 

 

 

Ugochinyere said the reorganisation was in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

 

 

 

Welcoming the development, the member representing the Ideato North/South federal constituency of Imo State,he urged NNPCL and other relevant agencies to continue with their role of supporting local refineries to transform the petroleum sector.

 

 

 

 

 

He said:”The Committee is impressed with the recent steps taken by the NNPCL under the leadership of Mele Kyari in the last few days which signal a ray of hope for Nigerians as their petroleum sector is on the path for a positive renaissance.

 

 

 

“We therefore commend the Kyari-led NNPCL management for these steps. Earlier this week, the company ended decades of massive importation of petroleum products into the country despite large deposits of crude oil.

 

 

 

“This step is expected to save the country as much as $10 billion in hard currency in-country annually, as the NNPCL said it now buys from the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery located in Lagos.

 

 

 

“Interestingly, Kyari declared that all the oil producers in the country must supply crude to the four NNPC refineries when they come back on-stream. He also profiled NNPC as a proud part owners to the Dangote Refinery, explaining that the company saw an opportunity in the $20 billion refinery as a clear market for at least 300,000 barrels per day of its production, which will enable it to avert being caught in the emerging shrinking market for crude oil.

 

 

 

“On the heels of that, NNPCL has announced a major shake up in its top management team with Mr. Adedapo Segun appointed as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Mr. Udobong Ntia named Executive Vice President (EVP),Upstream.

 

 

 

“These appointments, as the company acknowledged, showed its commitment to building a unified and competent leadership team to drive operational excellence and support the institution’s strategic objectives.

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in News 0
Mainstream Energy Wins Merit Award,Attributes Feat To Collective Responsibility

      Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Mainstream Energy Solutions Limited (MESL),operator of Kainji, Jebba, and Zungeru hydropower plants,has won the prestigious Afrisafe Merit Award for its outstanding commitment to safety excellence in the energy sector.

 

 

It was presented at the 2024 Africa Safety Congress in Livingston, Zambia.

 

 

 

The Merit Award recognizes organizations demonstrating exceptional dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of employees, customers, and the environment.

 

 

 

Accepting the award,the Managing Director/CEO Engr. Lamu Audu,who was also honoured as the 2024 Afrisafe CEO of the Year; Energy Services,said:“We’re thrilled to receive this award, underscoring our unrelenting commitment to safety.

 

 

 

 

“Our tireless efforts to maintain the highest safety standards have paid off, making us industry leaders,” Dr. Iwunze emphasized. “Congratulations to my colleagues for their outstanding safety culture and to Afrisafe for recognizing excellence.”

 

 

 

Dr. Prisca Ngozi Iwunze, Mainstream’s Head of Quality, Health,Safety, and Environment,represented him at the event.

 

 

 

The company’s boss attributed the awards to collective responsibility and commitment, stating, “These recognitions wouldn’t have been possible without our Board of Directors, Executive management, staff, and stakeholders.”

 

 

 

Some of MESL’s safety initiatives include the Monthly ‘Walk the Talk’, a well-articulated Quarterly Health Talk,Spot the hazard, 5S Methodology, and the popular Annual Safety Week celebrations.

 

 

 

The company’s efforts are reinforced by its certifications to internationally recognized standards which are: – ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System), ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety Management System).

 

 

 

According to Afrisafe,“MESL’s certifications showcase their commitment to excellence in quality, environmental management, and occupational health and safety, serving as a shining example for the industry.”

 

 

 

Dr. Iwunze noted that the award will significantly impact the electricity industry, demonstrating Mainstream’s exceptional safety record, with over 7.5 million man-hours without Lost Time Injury (LTI).

 

 

 

 

Iwunze added that the achievement will challenge other operators to prioritize safety, reducing accidents, saving lives, assets, and equipment, and ultimately providing more energy to the national grid while minimizing outages and environmental harm.

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 18, 2024 in Next Level 0
Army Destroys 46 Illegal Refining Sites,Heightens War Against Saboteurs

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Operatives of the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, in conjunction with sister security agencies, have destroyed 46 illegal refining sites, arresting five suspected oil thieves in the Niger Delta region.

 

 

 

 

This was contained in a statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Danjuma Jonah Danjuma on Sunday.

 

 

 

 

 

He highlighted that the army between November 11 and 17, 2024, recovered several ammunition, deactivating 46 illegal refining sites, and confiscation of over 95,000 litres of stolen products.

 

 

 

 

According to him,the troops in Rivers State, encountered armed vandals along the Oando pipeline in Ebocha, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area, and after a firefight, the criminals fled, abandoning an AK-47 rifle and a magazine loaded with 17 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

 

 

 

 

He said large wooden boats conveying over 28,320 litres of stolen crude were intercepted around Obiafu-Ndoni, leading to the arrest of seven suspected oil thieves.

 

 

 

 

He added that several successful operations also were conducted around Buguma in Asari Toru Local Government Area, where over 9,500 litres of stolen products were recovered, while 10,500 litres of stolen Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) were confiscated around Tuma and Krakrama in Degema Local Government Area in Rivers State.

 

 

 

 

In Bayelsa State, Danjuma disclosed that troops deactivated two illegal refining sites, recovered over 6,000 litres of stolen products, and seized two boats at Tunu and Clough Creeks in the Ekeremor Local Government Area.

 

 

 

 

The statement reads in part, “Similar operations were conducted in Nembe and Ogbia Local Government Areas, resulting in the destruction of several illegal refining sites and the recovery of over 3,000 litres of stolen products.

 

 

 

“In Delta State, troops intercepted a Sienna bus loaded with 28 cellophane bags of stolen AGO/Condensates at Oyede community in Isoko South Local Government Area, while in Akwa Ibom State, several vehicles were intercepted along Ikot Akan community in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, resulting in the recovery of over 2,160 litres of stolen AGO and the arrest of five suspects.”

 

 

 

He said the arrested suspects and products confiscated during the operations have been handed over to the relevant agency for prosecution.

 

 

 

The General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, commended the troops, reassuring that the Division will continue to conduct operations to safeguard critical national infrastructures in the region, clearing the area of economic saboteurs and ensuring an increase in oil output.

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in News 0
Ondo Poll:Aiyedatiwa Waves Olive Branch,Dedicates Victory To Akeredolu 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo state,has waved an olive branch as he invited all other contestants in the  Saturday’s governorship election to join him in moving the state forward.

 

 

 

 

He was declared winner by Prof. Olayemi Akinwunmi, Vice Chancellor, Federal University, Lokoja, Kogi State, having polled 366781 votes, while Agboola Ajayi of Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) polled 117,845 votes.

 

 

 

 

In his acceptance speech,he promised to run an all inclusive government, calling on poliyicoans across political paries to put their differences aside and work with him.

 

 

 

 

He dedicated his victory at the poll to his late boss, the immediate past governor of the state, the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

 

 

 

 

 

He said:”My fellow citizens of Ondo State,I stand before you this day, on the threshold of history, to accept the results of the 2024 gubernatorial elections held in our Sunshine State.

 

 

“I must say that  I feel greatly humbled and honoured by this renewed mandate you have given me to continue in office as your Governor. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and I pledge to work tirelessly to justify the trust you have reposed in me.

 

 

 

“Let me commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a free, fair, and credible election. The security agencies across board are also deserving of our gratitude for being very professional in their assignment and maintaining peace throughout the exercise.

 

 

 

“As your Governor, I promise to continue to run an inclusive and participatory government, where every citizen has a voice and an opportunity to contribute to our collective progress.

 

 

 

“We will continue to prioritize the welfare of our people, foster economic growth, and ensure that our state remains a beacon of hope and prosperity for generations to come.

 

 

“Now that the elections are over, it is time to rededicate ourselves to the service of our dear state.

 

 

 

“I therefore want to extend a hand of fellowship to the opposition parties and to invite you to collaborate with us in the onerous task of building a better Ondo State for the overall good of our people.

 

 

 

“Let us put aside our differences and work together to create a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our communities.

 

 

“Finally, I dedicate this victory,  first to the Almighty God and second, to the memories of our departed leader and former Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON.”

 

 

He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, leadership of APC, the national chairman of the party, Alhaji Abdulahi Umar Ganduje, the National Campaign Council of Ondo Governorship Election led by the Governor, Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others for their unwavering support.

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Politics 0
Ekiti State Holds Public Engagement On Tourism Policy Tuesday

        Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Ekiti State will hold a public engagement session focused on its tourism policy this Tuesday in a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing tourism and strengthening community involvement,

 

 

 

 

 

This event underscores Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development within the tourism sector.

 

 

 

Hosted by the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, the session seeks to unite stakeholders, community members, and industry experts in discussions surrounding the tourism policy framework.

 

 

 

The session will take place on Tuesday at the Lady Jibowu Centre, Governor’s House, Ado Ekiti, from 10 AM to 5 PM. All interested parties, including tourism operators, community members, business owners, and media representatives, are warmly invited to participate.

 

 

 

 

The event will feature presentations, interactive breakout discussions, and a questions & answers session, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the future of Ekiti’s tourism landscape.

 

 

 

 

Participants will have the opportunity to provide feedback and contribute to a shared vision for tourism’s pivotal role in Ekiti’s economic growth.

 

 

 

 

The tourism sector in Ekiti State is poised for significant expansion, with the potential to generate jobs, stimulate local businesses, and preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage. With its natural attractions, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural events, Ekiti is well-positioned to attract both domestic and international visitors.

 

 

 

 

However, as the industry continues to grow, a comprehensive tourism policy is essential for effective resource management, cultural heritage protection, and the establishment of guidelines for sustainable tourism development.

 

 

 

 

Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq., Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism, emphasized the import of a robust tourism policy.

 

 

 

 

He stated that such a policy serves as a strategic roadmap, directing the sustainable growth of the industry. It defines key objectives, establishes benchmarks, and aligns resources to support tourism’s expansion while safeguarding local heritage.

 

 

 

He added:”For Ekiti State, this tourism policy will focus on:Promoting Sustainable Development:The policy will advocate for eco-friendly practices that protect Ekiti’s natural attractions, cultural sites, and biodiversity for future generations.

 

 

 

“Boosting economic growth and job creation:By establishing clear objectives and standards, the policy will attract investments in tourism infrastructure, leading to job creation, increased revenue for local businesses, and improved tourism-related services.

 

 

 

 

“Enhancing local and international tourism appeal:By identifying key development areas and setting high standards, the policy aims to elevate Ekiti’s status as a sought-after tourism destination, encouraging longer visits from tourists.

 

 

 

 

“Safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting unity:The tourism policy will prioritize cultural preservation, ensuring that Ekiti’s heritage is responsibly celebrated and shared, fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents”.

 

 

 

 

Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq, further highlighted the necessity of public engagement in tourism policy development.

 

 

 

 

 

He stated that public involvement is crucial for effective policymaking,adding that the decision to host this public forum reflects Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to transparency, inclusion, and shared responsibility.

 

 

 

 

By engaging the community in discussions, the Bureau of Tourism Development,he said,aims to create a policy that is comprehensive and reflective of the community’s needs and aspirations.

 

 

 

 

 

According to him,the public engagement session is designed to gather diverse perspectives, allowing policymakers to understand the views and requirements of various stakeholders, including community leaders, local business owners, cultural custodians, and tourism operators.

 

 

 

 

Enhancing policy effectiveness is key—when community members feel their opinions are valued, there is a heightened likelihood of public support for the policy’s implementation, which is critical for its long-term success.

 

 

 

 

The event promotes transparency and accountability, creating an open platform where residents can voice concerns, ask questions, and better understand the policy’s goals and expected outcomes. Additionally, involving the public in policy development fosters a sense of ownership among residents, who will ultimately become ambassadors of Ekiti’s tourism vision.

 

 

 

 

 

The Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development is dedicated to positioning Ekiti as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria through policy development, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement. By collaborating with various stakeholders, the Bureau aims to foster an inclusive and sustainable tourism industry that enhances both economic vitality and the quality of life for all residents.

 

 

 

 

 

This engagement marks a pivotal chapter in Ekiti’s tourism journey, bringing together residents and leaders to ensure a bright, inclusive, and sustainable future for the state’s tourism sector.

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Travel & Tourism 0
Over 300 Youths Benefit As NLNG Commences Nigerian Content HCD Trainings

      Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Limited,has kicked off its Nigerian Content Human Capacity Development (NC-HCD) Basic Training Programme for the NLNG Train 7 Project, a major Nigerian Content programme aimed at reskilling young graduates and developing human capital.

 

 

 

A total of 331 young graduates from diverse academic disciplines who emerged successful out of 848 previously shortlisted from the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content (NOGIC) Joint Qualification System (JQS) portal of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), are undergoing the 12-month programme,a statement said on Sunday.

 

 

 

According to the statement,areas of training include ICT, Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Non-destructive Testing (NDT), Lifting and Working at Heights, Quality Management Systems, Marine and Offshore Services, and Facility Management and Maintenance.

 

 

Speaking at the event, the NLNG Train 7 Corporate Liaison Manager, Engr Joshua Anemeje, who represented the Train 7 project, said the execution of the project has progressed remarkably well and attributed the successful commencement of the NC-HCD Training Programme to the support of the NCDMB.

 

 

 

“We are excited to see the number of young men and women this programme will impact. NLNG takes pride in empowering our people, providing an environment that builds skills and capabilities. As you know, the Train 7 Project is nearly 75% complete, employing over 10,000 skilled individuals on-site. This training offers participants a chance to make the most of their learning and apply it in future endeavours,” he said.

 

 

 

 

 

Engr Anemeje disclosed that there are over 10,000 workers actively engaged in the construction of the Train 7 Project at the NLNG Plant Site at Finima, Bonny Island, Rivers State. He charged the trainees to stay focused and work towards utilising the skills they acquire for future endeavours.

 

 

 

 

In the keynote address,the NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr Felix Ogbe, FNSE, represented by the Director of Capacity Building and Corporate Services, Dr Ama Ikuru, expressed joy that the training programme had finally taken off in fulfilment of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act requirement on human capital development.

 

 

 

He said the programme, designed to build a pool of skilled and globally competitive workers to support the development and growth of the Nigerian oil and gas industry and its related sectors, represents a crucial investment in our country’s future and remains a commitment to the empowerment of the next generation of skilled professionals.

 

 

 

Addressing the trainees, Dr. Ikuru stated that the opportunity created by the NC-HCD programme will enable them to build a strong foundation in both knowledge and practical skills. He remarked that there was a clear pathway to employment for high-performing trainees.

 

 

 

He further remarked that young graduates seeking to benefit from similar training for oil and gas industry-related jobs can register on the NCDMB’s NOGIC JQS Portal, which is the statutorily established database for companies operating and providing services in the sector.

 

 

The training is provided by the Oil and Gas Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN).

 

 

The Train 7 Project is expected to increase the production capacity of the NLNG Terminal by 35 per cent, from the current 22 million metric tonnes per annum (mtpa) to 30 mtpa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — November 17, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0