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42,000 MT Of Food In Final Stage For Distributions

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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The Nigerian government says it is at the final stages of releasing 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted food commodities to support the vulnerable population across the country.

The government disclosed that through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, a total number of 42,000 metric tonnes of assorted grains are currently being bagged across seven locations of strategic reserve in the nation.

In a statement, Special Adviser to the President on Information And Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, stated that the move is part of the efforts of Tinubu led administration to provide emergency solution to the food shortage crisis facing the country.

Onanuga who stated that “the grains are being bagged for onward delivery to the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, added “the need to bag the grains, caused the delay as the bags were freshly ordered by government.”

The Presidential aide further said that Nigerians would not need to pay for the grain bags, as they are free.

He disclosed that, the 42000 metric tonnes would be complemented by the 60,000 metric tonnes of milled rice to be purchased by the Federal Government from the Mega Rice Millers.

“Already, with the announcement of the impending releases of food commodities from the Strategic Reserve, there is a noticeable reduction in commodity prices across major grains markets in the country,” he said.

Onanuga reiterated the positions of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari revealing that “the Nigerian Government is also ramping up food production by boosting Dry Season Farming under the National Agricultural Growth Scheme Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) Project .

“The First Phase of the Dry Season Farming was launched in November, 2023.

“It focuses on the cultivation of wheat across 15 wheat-producing states, covering 118,657 hectares and involving 107,429 farmers.

“The fields are green now and harvest will commence in a matter of weeks..There are fantastic reports of growth of wheat from Jigawa State, which is now targeting harvest from about 50,000 hectares, 10,000 hectares more than initially allotted under the programme.”

The Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari had said that the Phase 2 of the Dry Season Farming will commence soon, across all 36 states of Nigeria and FCT.

Kyari also made known that this will cover rice, maize, and cassava.

ECOWAS Lift Sanctions On Niger Republic, Others

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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0

The Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS has lifted, with immediate effect, economic sanctions on the Niger Republic.

Reeling out the sanctions lifted, the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, said all political sanctions imposed on Niger are still in place.

Touray stated in the communiqué issued after the Extra Summit of the ECOWAS in Abuja that the closure of land and air borders between ECOWAS countries and Niger is now lifted.

Niger Coup: AU Supports ECOWAS Decisions

According to him, “But there are targeted sanctions as well as political sanctions. That remains in force. I think our sanctions regime should be assessed correctly. The list I have given relates mainly to Niger because all the other countries still have political sanctions on them.”

When asked if other sanctions were lifted, Touray added that individual sanctions as well as political sanctions remain in place in the Niger Republic.

Touray also said that the no-fly zone for all commercial flights to and from ECOWAS countries and Niger is to be lifted.

According to the ECOWAS President, “Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between ECOWAS member states and Niger is to be lifted.

Freezing of all service transactions, including utility services, is to be lifted.

He further disclosed that the freezing of assets of the Republic of Niger in the ECOWAS Central Bank is to be lifted.

“Freezing of assets of Niger State and the state enterprises and parastatals in commercial banks is to be lifted.

Touray added that the suspension of Niger from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development, is to be lifted.

The ECOWAS Commission President also made it known that the travel ban on Niger government officials and their family members is also to be lifted.

According to Touray, these decisions on the lifting of sanctions on Niger are based on humanitarian considerations, especially as the month of Ramadan approaches.

He added that the authority has also resolved to lift the sanctions regarding the recruitment of Malian citizens in statutory and professional positions within ECOWAS.

On Guinea

Omar Touray said that ECOWAS resolved to lift financial and economic sanctions on the Republic of Guinea.

The Head of the ECOWAS Commission added that the Authority of the regional bloc has also instructed the President of the Commission to invite Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali, and Guinea, to attend the technical and consultative meetings of ECOWAS as well as all security-related meetings.

“So the border closures, the commercial sanctions and all that are all lifted and that is what the leaders have decided to do.

“Now for other countries, political sanctions remain and that means they have limited ability to attend the ECOWAS Summit as well as ministerial sessions.”

Pres. Tinubu Appeals For Re-Evaluation Of Sahel Alliance

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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0

Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States and Head of State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has called on Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali to exit their group, the Alliance of Sahel States and not perceive ECOWAS as a rival organisation.

In his opening remarks during the extraordinary summit on the peace, political and security situation in the ECOWAS sub-region held in the Nigerian State House on Saturday, the ECOWAS Chair, President Tinubu, urged the regional bloc to re-examine the current approach to the quest for constitutional order in the four member states of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Guinea.

“We are garthered here to address pressing developments in our subregion and the political situation in Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali”.

President Tinubu expresses confidence that collective efforts and determination will address the challenges before the bloc and chart a new course in the military-ruled countries of West Africa.

The Nigerian leader, who also declared the summit open, called for people-centred, courageous decisions, saying that democracy remains the path to addressing the basic needs and aspirations of the people.

According to him, “Times like we currently face in our sub-region demand that we take difficult but courageous decisions that put the plight of our people at the centre of our deliberations. Democracy is nothing more than the political framework and the path to addressing the basic needs and aspirations of the people. This is why we must re-examine our current approach to the quest for constitutional order in four of our member states.

“I therefore urge them to reconsider the decision of the three of them to exit their homes and not to perceive our organisation as the enemy.

“I am confident that through our collective efforts and determination, we will navigate the challenges before us and chart a course towards a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous West Africa,” the ECOWAS Chair added.

President Tinubu underscored that the current challenges of military coups facing the West African region are daunting, hence presenting an opportunity for ECOWAS to re-affirm its commitment to the ideas of the founding fathers and the principles forming the basis of collective peace, security and regional integration.

Niger Coup: AU Supports ECOWAS Decisions

“Let me underscore that these challenges, though daunting, present an opportunity for ECOWAS to reaffirm its commitment to the vision of our founding fathers and the principles underpinning our commitment to peace, security, and regional integration.

President Tinubu encouraged the regional bloc to be united in their resolution to promote economic integration, democracy and human rights to foster sustainable development across member states.

Present at the extraordinary summit were the Presidents of Senegal, Macky Sall, President of Cote D’Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray, Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State; and the President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo, President Nana Akufo Addo of Ghana; Vice President of the Gambia, Muhammad Jallow; and President Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea Bissau.

The summit is expected to present a memorandum on the current situation in the Republics of Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali and Niger.

The ECOWAS Chair disclosed that this would inform the decision of the regional bloc. He stated that the decision of ECOWAS must then be guided by its commitment to safeguarding the constitutional order, upholding democratic principles and promoting the social and economic well-being of the citizens of the military-led countries.

Recall that the military junta-led Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger announced a plan to establish a confederation that will deepen their ties following their exit from the ECOWAS regional bloc on January 28, 2024.

NASS Workers: Senate Rejects Bill To Extend Service Years

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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0

The Senate has rejected the controversial bill seeking to extend the service year for employees of National Assembly by additional five years.

The bill, which had been passed at the House of Representatives, was declined for concurrence by the Senate on Thursday at plenary.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that there were missed reactions amongst lawmakers in the Senate after the Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele (APC-Ekiti), introduced the bill for concurrence.

While Sen. Sumaila Kawu (NNPP Kano) spoke in support of the bill, others, including Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA-Abia) and Ali Ndume (APC Borno), expressed reservations over the bill, saying that it would cause disaffection in the Nigerian civil service.

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Abaribe said he was against the passage of the bill because there was no difference between a staff of National Assembly who has special knowledge as Director of Finance and a Director of Finance in Federal Ministry of Finance.

Abaribe said: “I have also looked at the retirement age for university lecturers and judicial officials, which we passed about the same time.

Ndume, on his part, reiterated the contentious nature of the bill and urged the lawmakers to be careful in processing it.

The lawmaker urged his colleagues to repudiate the bill for further consultation.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, after his ruling, declared that the bill was repudiated because it was controversial.

Nigeria Police To Lift Ban On Tinted Glass Permit

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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The Nigeria Police Force has announced a review and proposed the lifting of the ban on tinted glass, implementing stringent measures to prevent abuse and ensure strict adherence to guidelines.

According to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the force plans to train ICT analysts and enforcement officers across the nation for effective compliance.

Titled: “Internal Security: Police Reviews Issuance Of Tinted Glass Permit; Trains Ict Analysts, Enforcement Officers Nationwide For Compliance,” Adejobi said that the proposed tinted glass permit will incorporate distinctive features aimed at enhancing enforcement efficiency and security.

The statement partly read: “In a bid to enhance national security and curb criminal activities facilitated by the misuse of tinted glass, the Nigeria Police Force has concluded its review of the issuance of tinted glass permits, previously banned in June 2022.

“The ban was initiated due to widespread concerns regarding the role of tinted glass in aiding heinous crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, the illegal transportation of firearms, human trafficking etc.

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“With the proposed lifting of the ban, stringent measures are being implemented to prevent abuse and ensure strict compliance with guidelines governing the issuance and use of tinted glass permits.”

The statement further noted that training of the ICT analysts and enforcement officers nationwide had been scheduled for February 29, 2024, as a prequel to the reopening of tinted glass permit issuance.

It further read, “The training will equip ICT Analysts and Enforcement Officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to regulate the registration process, guide registrants on the use of the portal where required, attend to complaints from members of the public, and enforce compliance effectively.

“It will focus on the intricacies of the new guidelines, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a delicate balance between public safety and individual freedoms while safeguarding national security.

“The proposed tinted glass permit will incorporate distinctive features aimed at enhancing enforcement efficiency and security. These include a QR code linked to a central database for real-time verification, unique serial numbers correlated with vehicle and owner details, as well as a digital hologram ensuring authenticity and integrity, among other measures.

“It is crucial to highlight that the guidelines for the issuance of tinted permits and the use of tinted glass will strictly adhere to the provisions of the MOTOR VEHICLES (PROHIBITION OF TINTED GLASS) ACT 1991 and other relevant extant laws. This strategic approach underscores the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to prioritize public safety while upholding individual rights and national security interests.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to providing updates to the general public on the implementation of the reviewed process of tinted glass permit issuance, ensuring transparency and accountability in its efforts to maintain internal security.”

NAMA Enhances Partnership With NAF On Airspace Safety, Security

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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0

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has re-affirmed its commitment towards the collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), saying that this is geared towards enhancing airspace safety and security across Nigeria.

A statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NAMA, Abdullahi Musa said the Managing Director of the agency, Engr. Ahmed Farouk restated this commitment during a courtesy call to the NAF headquarters in Abuja.

The statement hinted that Farouk engaged in discussions with the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar.

Farouk further recognised the critical role the air force plays in safeguarding the country’s airspace.

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He lauded the NAF for the existing cooperation between the two organsiations and expressed the willingness to explore new avenues for mutual benefit.

Farouk insisted that strengthening collaboration between the two entities was pivotal in enhancing airspace management, safety and security nationwide.

In his remarks, Abubakar highlighted the importance of maintaining a steadfast commitment to the partnership.

He emphasised that its impact on the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s aviation sector could not be underestimated.

He also appealed for NAMA’s cooperation in achieving the final accreditation of the Air Traffic School Training Centre (ATSTC) in Kaduna.

This accreditation, he emphasised would contribute significantly to bolstering manpower and capacity within both the Nigerian Airforce and civil aviation in the country.

The statement added: “The partnership between NAMA and the Nigerian Air Force represents a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Nigeria’s airspace.

“By fostering collaboration and pursuing innovative initiatives, both organisations aim to elevate the standards of airspace management and enhance the overall aviation landscape in Nigeria.”

Edo Election: Asue Ighodalo Wins PDP Primary

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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0

Asue Ighodalo has been declared winner of the PDP primary for the September Governorship election as he polled 577 votes to defeat six other aspirants.

Delegates from the National and state headquarters of INEC led by Abubakar Hadiza and state INEC REC, Dr Anugbom Onuoha monitored the exercise held at the lawn tennis court of the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium

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The result  of the primary was declared on behalf of the national working committee of the PDP by the Chief returning officer for the primary who is also the governor of  Zamfara State Dauda Lawal flanked by the co chairman and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevbori and secretary of the panel Sen. James Manager .

Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu who won in another factional primary conducted within the vicinity of his office was said to have scored one vote while six votes were voided.

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki who witnessed the primary alongside his wife Betsy scored the process high.

585 Accredited delegates from the eighteen local government areas participated in the primary.

Police Arrest Officers Who Extorted N30m From Civilian

By
Rhoda Onuzulike
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0

The Nigeria Police has arrested the officers attached to the Special Tactical Squad in Abuja and their accomplices responsible for the extortion of a member of the public of the sum of N30,300,000.

In a statement, Friday by the Force Spokesman, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the arrest of the officers followed the recent notice brought to the attention of the Force via the X (Twitter) Platform.

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“Following the recent act of extortion by some officers of the Nigeria Police attached to the Special Tactical Squad in Abuja who extorted a member of the public of the sum of Thirty Million, Three Hundred Thousand Naira (N30,300,000), which was brought to the notice of the Force via the X Platform, the Nigeria Police wishes to reveal and announce that significant progress has been made in apprehending the officers and their accomplices responsible for this unprofessional conduct as the squad who initially escaped upon commencement of investigations have been arrested and are currently in custody,” the statement reads.

According to the Force PPRO, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun as part of his commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force ordered the commencement of disciplinary proceedings to ensure that justice is served swiftly and decisively.

“These disciplinary measures underscore the zero-tolerance stance of the Nigeria Police Force towards any form of misconduct or corruption among its ranks.

“The IGP also emphasized the imperativeness that those found to have violated the trust placed in them by the public face the full consequences of their actions, as such behavior not only tarnishes the reputation of the Force but also undermines the collective efforts to maintain law and order in our country.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains resolute in its quest to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability. As guardians of public safety and the rule of law, we are deeply committed to ensuring that all officers adhere strictly to ethical conduct and demonstrate staunch integrity in the discharge of their duties.

“The NPF recognizes that transparency and accountability are paramount in maintaining public trust and will continue to take decisive action against any misconduct within our ranks.”

Paris 2024: Nigeria’s Falcons, Cameroon’s Lionesses In Fierce Battle In Douala

By
Emenike Agu
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0

Giants of African women football, Nigeria and Cameroon will be taking no prisoners when they clash in Douala on Friday for a place in the final round of the African qualifying series for this year’s Women’s Olympic Football Tournament.

The Super Falcons, rated top in Africa and still walking with springs in their steps after reaching the Round of 16 at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Down Under, exiting the finals without losing a match in regulation time, will remember at kick-off that the Indomitable Lionesses stopped their march to the London 2012 Olympics.

On their part, the Lionesses have grouses of their own, having been bumped by Nigeria in several major events including being denied the Women Africa Cup of Nations title in front of their own fans in 2016, and being shoved out at the quarter-finals of the last Women AFCON tournament in Morocco.

Coach Randy Waldrum has recalled fabulous defender Ashley Plumptre, now based in Saudi Arabia, and Halimatu Ayinde, Toni Payne and Christy Ucheibe will get to play together in the middle again after a stirring outing at the World Cup in Australia. There’s also the talented youngster Deborah Abiodun.

Nigeria’s goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie is one of the most respected safe hands globally, and in forwards Asisat Oshoala, Rasheedat Ajibade, Uchenna Kanu, Gift Monday and Esther Okoronkwo, the Super Falcons boast one of the most stellar attacking ensemble in women’s football.

Captain Ajibade scored two of the five goals that eliminated Ethiopia in the second round of the qualifiers, with Oshoala also scoring, and Okoronkwo and Kanu were on fire as Cape Verde were put to the sword in the final round of qualifiers for this year’s Women AFCON championship.

Veteran defender Osinachi Ohale is peerless on her day, and younger stallions Tosin Demehin and Rofiat Imuran have grown to become true fighters whenever the occasion called for such.

Cameroon, who edged Uganda 3-2 on aggregate in the second round, will be missing star player Ajara Njoya Nchout. Yet, it will be dangerous to underestimate what the Lionesses can come up with right in their own den.

Both teams will join the same flight to Nigeria’s administrative capital, Abuja for Monday’s return leg at the MKO Abiola National Stadium.

South Africa’s Banyana Banyana will take on Tanzania the same weekend, with the winner over two legs to clash with the winner of Nigeria/Cameroon for one of the African tickets to Paris in July.

Tunisia clash with Morocco in an all-North African affair while Ghana host Zambia in Kumasi. Winners will face off for the second African ticket to Paris.

2023 AFCON Best Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams Reflects On Failed Penalty-Save Plans Vs Nigeria

By
Emenike Agu
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0

South African goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has shed light on his challenges in saving penalties during his team’s AFCON 2023 semifinal encounter against Nigeria.

Despite emerging as the hero in South Africa’s shootout victory against Cape Verde in the quarterfinals, the 32-year-old shot-stopper faced difficulties in thwarting Nigeria’s spot kicks.

Williams, who had previously demonstrated his penalty-saving prowess, found himself unable to replicate his success against the Super Eagles.

Reflecting on his performance, Williams disclosed his strategy of attempting to unsettle Nigeria’s penalty takers but acknowledged that his plan did not yield the desired results.

“Obviously, it is either you are going one of three sides, it’s either down the middle or left or right. Now they don’t want us to talk to the players anymore,” Williams explained. “I tried to push the limits, by going up to them to tell them where they are going so that at least I have cut out one side.”

Despite his efforts to gain a psychological advantage, Williams noted that Nigeria’s penalty takers adapted to his tactics, posing a new challenge for him to overcome. “They started studying me as well; you know, four out of five penalties went down the middle, so now I need to come up with better ideas,” he remarked.

Ultimately, South Africa secured a third-place finish in the tournament by defeating DR Congo on penalties in the third-place match with the goalkeeper the hero with two penalty saves.

Ronwen Williams was named goalkeeper of the tournament, beating Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali to the award.

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