The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) supports ECOWAS decision on Niger

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July 31, 2023

The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), the umbrella body of all registered political parties in Nigeria, unequivocally supports the resolution of the West African leaders under the able Chairmanship of President and Commander-In-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. who on Sunday, July 30th, 2023 at Abuja gave the military junta in Niger one week to cede power or face the use of force to restore the rule of law in Niger.

IPAC also supports the immediate imposition of financial sanctions, travel bans, and other punitive actions against the junta, their families, and supporters, but calls for extra vigilance for the life of President Mohamed Bazoum who has been held hostage by the junta.

IPAC commends President Bola Tinubu for swiftly convening the emergency summit of the 15-nation Economic Community of West African States ECOWAS and demanding the “immediate release and reinstatement” of elected President Mohamed Bazoum, who has been held by the military since Wednesday.

IPAC believes the chiefs of defense staff of ECOWAS should commence deliberations on military options to restore constitutional order in the Republic of Niger. While we commend France, the European Union, the USA, the UN, AU, and other international bodies who have already suspended security cooperation and financial aid to Niger, we believe the long-term solution to the prevalent coups in the West African Sub Region is for the regional body to establish a military command similar to ECOMOG, a formal arrangement for separate armies to work together for sustainable stability of polity in the region.

Breaking: President Tinubu Broadcasts to the Nation

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Mana Balagbogbo

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July 31, 2023

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will make a broadcast to the nation on Monday, July 31, 2023, at 7 pm.

This was contained in a statement signed by Dele Alake, the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications & Strategy.

Television, radio stations, and other electronic media outlets are urged to hook up to the network service of the Nigerian Television Authority and Radio Nigeria for the broadcast.

Coup: ECOWAS Imposes No Flight Zone on Niger

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has imposed a no flight zone on Niger following the coup that toppled the elected government of Mohamed Bazoum.

The decision was reached at an extraordinary session of the ECOWAS authority of heads of state and government at the Nigerian State House, Abuja on Sunday.

ECOWAS chairman, President Bola Tinubu had conveyed the emergency meeting after the coup in Niger Republic.

The body warned Niger junta that it would be held responsible for the safety of President Bazoum and his family, declaring that the holding President Bazoum hostage was illegal.

The West African States also imposed travel bans on military officers involved in attempted coup in Niger republic.

ECOWAS also rejected the potential forced resignation of President Mohammed Bazoum, saying that the body recognised him as the duly elected president of the country.

The body added that it did not recognise foreign or Private military outfits supporting the Niger military Junta.

Global Economic Growth to Drop to 3.0% in 2023-24- IMF

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that global economic growth will fall from 3.5 per cent in 2022 to 3.0 per cent in both 2023 and 2024 in its World Economic Outlook (WEO) Update Report for July 2023.

The report said though the forecast for 2023 was modestly higher than predicted in the April 2023 WEO, it remained weak by historical standards.

“Compared with projections in the April 2023 WEO, growth has been upgraded by 0.2 percentage points for 2023, with no change for 2024.

“The forecast for 2023–24 remains well below the historical (2000–19) annual average of 3.8 per cent.

“It is also below the historical average across broad income groups, in overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as well as per capita GDP terms. ”

The report said advanced economies continued to drive the decline in growth from 2022 to 2023, with weaker manufacturing, as well as idiosyncratic factors, offsetting stronger services activity.

“For advanced economies, the growth slowdown projected for 2023 remained significant, from 2.7 per cent in 2022 to 1.5 per cent in 2023.

“About 93 per cent of advanced economies are projected to have lower growth in 2023, and growth in 2024 among this group of economies is projected to remain at 1.4 per cent.”

While the report said in emerging markets and developing economies, the growth outlook was broadly stable for 2023 and 2024, although with notable shifts across regions.

“For emerging market and developing economies, growth is projected to be broadly stable at 4.0 per cent in 2023 and 4.1 per cent in 2024, with modest revisions of 0.1 percentage point for 2023 and –0.1 percentage point for 2024.”

The report showed growth in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to decline to 3.5 per cent in 2023 before picking up to 4.1 per cent in 2024.

It revealed that economic growth in Nigeria in 2023 and 2024 is projected to gradually decline, in line with April WEO projections, reflecting security issues in the oil sector.

The report showed that economic growth in Nigeria is projected at 3.2 per cent in 2023 and decline to 3.0 in 2024.

The report said Global headline inflation was expected to fall from 8.7 per cent in 2022 to 6.8 per cent in 2023 and 5.2 per cent in 2024.

“Underlying (core) inflation is projected to decline more gradually, and forecasts for inflation in 2024 have been revised upward. ”

It said inflation could remain high and even rise if further shocks occur, including those from an intensification of the war in Ukraine and extreme weather-related events, triggering more restrictive monetary policy.

The report said financial sector turbulence could resume as markets adjust to further policy tightening by central banks.

“China’s recovery could slow, in part as a result of unresolved real estate problems, with negative cross-border spillovers.

“Sovereign debt distress could spread to a wider group of economies.”

It, however, said on the upside, inflation could fall faster than expected, reducing the need for tight monetary policy, and domestic demand could again prove more resilient.

The report said in most economies, the policy priorities remained to achieve sustained disinflation while ensuring financial stability.

“Therefore, central banks should remain focused on restoring price stability and strengthening financial supervision and risk monitoring.

“Should market strains materialise, countries should provide liquidity promptly while mitigating the possibility of moral hazard.

“They should also build fiscal buffers, with the composition of fiscal adjustment ensuring targeted support for the most vulnerable.

The report said improvements to the supply side of the economy would facilitate fiscal consolidation and a smoother decline of inflation toward target levels.

Max Air Resumes Domestic Flight Operations

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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Max Air resumes domestic flight operations today, two weeks after the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) suspended the airline’s operations due to safety concerns.

In a statement issued on Saturday night, Max Air assured its passengers that the safety concerns raised had been resolved.

The statement reads: “Max Air Limited is pleased to announce the resumption of domestic flight operations from Sunday, July 30, 2023, following a temporary suspension due to safety concerns.

BREAKING: Panic As Max Air Crash-landed in Abuja

“We want to express our gratitude to our valued customers for their understanding and patience during this period.

“Safety is at the core of MaxAir Limited’s values, and we take our commitment to passenger safety with the utmost seriousness. After conducting a thorough internal investigation, it was brought to our attention that our operations were impacted by adulterated fuel.

“As a result, we promptly initiated an in-house audit and, in the interest of passenger safety, voluntarily suspended our operations for two days before the intervention of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

“We would like to reassure all our passengers that we have been working diligently to address the safety concerns raised during this suspension period.”

“Our dedicated team has been working around the clock to resolve these issues. We understand the importance of your travel plans and the trust you place in MaxAir Limited.

“We apologise for any disruption caused and assure you that our customer support team is available to assist with any inquiries and provide you with the necessary support to make your travel experience seamless.”

My policies on Subsidy Removal, Others, Yielding Positive Results – Tinubu

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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President Bola Tinubu said the Federal Government is receiving support and commendations from the global communities over the removal of fuel subsidy and the foreign exchange regime policies. He noted that the policies are yielding positive results.

Tinubu stated this at a Gala/Award Night on Saturday, organised by the office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HOCSF), to recognise and honour outstanding civil servants to mark the 2023 Civil Service Week.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, President Tinubu appreciated civil servants for their numerous contributions to the economic development of the country.

The president, who accepted the fact that the policies had in one way or the other affected the masses, said the government was working on measures to cushion the effects.

“We shall without delay cushion the pains being experienced by our people as a result of these measures through a number of well targeted interventions aimed at giving adequate relief and succour to a great number of our long- suffering citizens, ” he said.

He, however, pledged to give more supports to the civil service sector, being the custodian of public trust to consolidate on the gains of the ongoing reforms in the sector.

Earlier, in her opening remarks, the HOCSF, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, said every human being had an inherent desire to be appreciated or acknowledged for their efforts, and so hard-working civil servants deserve reward for their services to the nation.

According to Yemi-Esan, when an individual feels valued and recognised for hard work, he or she is more likely to be committed and enthusiastic next time around.

She used the occasion to present prizes namely, a brand new 2022 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV, a 2 Bedroom semi-detached bungalow; and a plot of land to the top three outstanding civil servants.

The gesture, which is in collaboration with the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, also favoured 29 other outstanding civil servants who went home with other awards while few got N500,000 each.

“The Star Prize of a Brand New 2022 JAC JS4 Luxury Model SUV won by Juwon Olayiwola of the Federal Ministry of Education; a 2-Bedroom Semi-Detached Bungalow was won by Nwachukwu of Service Welfare Office, office of the HOCSF and the 3rd prize, a Plot of Land, was allocated to Chukweke Stella Oluchi, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).”

While urging heads of MDAs to reward outstanding workers, the HOS said recognition/rewards could serve to inspire employees to go the extra mile to innovate and achieve excellence in the course of discharging their jobs.

“In this ever-evolving corporate world, fostering a positive and motivating work environment has become crucial for the success of any institution.”

Also, the Chairman, Federal Civil Service Commission, Dr Tukur Ingawa, represented by Dr Simon Etim, a Commissioner in the Commission, said rewarding a worker is critical innovative factor for motivation in executing the needed jobs in any organisation.

The theme for the service week is: ‘Digitalisation of work processes in the public service: A gateway to efficient resources utilisation and national development’.

Lagos to Close Down Night clubs Over Drugs, Firearms

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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The Lagos State Safety Commission says it is beginning a joint operations with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) that will lead to the shutting down of night clubs caught in the act of allowing the use of drugs and firearms.

The director-general of the commission, Lanre Mojola announced this on Sunday during a meeting with night clubs owners/operators, with officials of the NDLEA also present.

The state government, according to Mojola, has zero tolerance for the use of drugs and firearms at night clubs, and would not hesitate to activate the relevant laws against violators in any part of Lagos.

He decried the rampant use of hard drugs and firearms in night clubs in the state vowed to henceforth close down such clubs.

The DG also frowned at the presence of the underaged at night clubs in the state, warning that such was against the law.

“The purpose of this meeting is to address certain concerns that have come to our attention. We have concerns about the usage of drugs and the use of firearms and other safety issues that have become a major cause for concern”

“Another issue is the use of firearms in clubs. Last year, we had an incident with a superstar, on the use of firearms. We are also aware of a shooting incident that happened at a club recently. All these give us serious concerns. We need to tell ourselves the truth. There should be scanners that people must go through, that can detect firearms. What are your bouncers doing?

According to him, “Lots of night clubs frontages have been turned to drug sales outlets, you need to address that; night clubs need to have lots of signages on designated areas for smoking. The issue of underaged in night clubs should also be addressed.

He warned the night club owners to respect the laws as the government would not hesitate to wield the big stick on those flagrantly violating the laws of the state regarding operation of night clubs.

The DG also called on night club owners to take responsibility and form an association to better tackle the issues of drug and firearms in their clubs, adding that no security detail should be allowed to carry firearms.

Also speaking, Maijama’a Abdullahi, superintendent of narcotic, Lagos State command, NDLEA, lamented that drugs were being used in most night clubs from his findings after undergoing a secret tour of some clubs in Lagos.

He said that in many night clubs, there were no signages to warn people against doing drugs, decrying that drugs were being used excessively.

“The drug dealers stick around the clubs, they stick outside the clubs and sell drugs. Some of those selling drugs are friends with the bouncers. We need the help of club owners, it is getting out of hand.

Following the meeting, officials of the safety commission and NDLEA will begin joint regular visits to night clubs in the state with a view shutting down erring ones.

Adamawa Police Confirms Arrests Of 25 Persons

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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The Adamawa State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of twenty five persons involved in the activities of stealing food and other items in the government warehouse

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Suleiman Ngoruje said the police and other security personnel is doing everything possible to retrieved the items stolen.

Gov. Fintiri Declares 24 Hour Curfew In Adamawa

He assured the good people of Adamawa State that the security agencies will obey the order by the State government and will not hesitate to arrest whoever violent the directives

On the party of the National Emergency Management Agency NEMA expressed worry over the activities of the hoodlums, however appealing to the authorities to provide adequate security to their warehouse

He appealed to the youths to be calm as the items are meant to distribute to the poor Nigerians in order to cushion the hardships they are facing

ECOWAS Gives Niger Military 7-Days to Restore Pres. Bazoum

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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The Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the military in Niger Republic to restore ousted President Muhammed Bazoum to office.

This was disclosed during an extraordinary session of the Authority chaired by its Chairman, President Bola Tinubu in Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja following its deliberations on developments in Niger where President Mohamed Bazoum has been held by members of his presidential guards for days.

President Tinubu who is the chairman of the regional bloc called on leaders to be strong, forceful, and resolute about the survival of Bazoum as well as the freedom and restoration of the constitutionally elected body in Niger Republic.

Recall that the Commander of the country’s Presidential Guards, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, had on Friday, declared himself the Head of a Transitional Government.

Details later.

Kebbi Governor Task Judiciary to Di-congest Prisons

By

Rhoda Onuzulike

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July 30, 2023

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The Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris has tasked the Acting Chief Judge of the State, Justice Umar Abubakar to dicongest prisons across the State.

The governor made the remarks Shortly after Swearing-in the Acting Grand, Khadi Sadik Umar at the Council Chamber Government House, Birninkebbi.

The Swearing-in followed the retirement of former Grand Khadi to the State Tukur Argungu, who clocked 60 years by birth.

The Governor said this appeal became necessary in view of some of complaints about prisons congestion being experienced in prisons across the State.

Nasir insist that he operate an open door policy and was ready with any advice suggestions and constructive criticism that would bring positive development to the State.