Nigeria's minister, BETTA Edu emerges ECOWAS' Chairman of Inter-Ministerial Committee on Social Protection

BY JUMOKE OWOOLA

Nigeria's Minister For Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation,  Dr. Betta Edu who is now the chairman of the ECOWAS Inter- Ministerial Committee on social Protection, has harped on the imperativeness of member countries of the Economic Community of West Africa,  ECOWAS to work towards achieving maximum social protection in the sub-region.

Speaking in Banjul, the Capital of the Republic of Gambia, during the closing session of the hybrid inter-ministerial meeting to adopt the ECOWAS regional social protection framework and operational plan, Dr. Edu told the session that the adoption of the social protection framework by member countries and full implementation was key to overcoming humanitarian and poverty challenges in West Africa.

Describing the meeting as crucial and remarkable as it is expected to grow the great initiatives and long-term efforts of the ECOWAS Commission with the support of partners in birthing the social protection instruments in the sub-sub-region, Minister who chaired the event virtually argued that; 

"Social Protection is a fundamental human right and should not be regarded as a privilege. It is a social and economic necessity that has proven to be a stabilizer in times of crises and shock, and it is meant to be provided throughout  life circle"

Dr. Edu pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the yawning gaps in the social protection of the world, particularly in the West African sub-region, which has one of the lowest social protections in the continent.

Records, she disclosed, have shown that the coverage of Social Protection in the ECOWAS region is the lowest in the continent with an average of about 17%  of the population receiving at least one form of social protection benefits and spending is equally low as studies show that as little as 1% of the GDP of member States is spent on social protection benefits apart from health considered a far cry in comparison to international standards which should not be acceptable in West Africa.

Citing Nigeria as an example,  the Minister, however,  acknowledged that member states were making giant strides towards addressing issues of social protection at the national level by developing policies and structures/programs to change the narratives. Nigeria is presently implementing one of the highest social protection interventions that covers 15 million households and, by extension, 61 million individuals through conditional cash transfers. This is the first of this magnitude and coverage in Africa by President Bola Tinubu, who is also the Chairman of ECOWAS, showing leadership in social protection within the region.

"Furthermore Nigeria has a National Policy on Social Protection developed and other ancillary policies that will facilitate its operationalization, like the Cash and Voucher Assistance policy in Humanitarian context have equally been developed to guide actors in providing cash transfer assistance to the persons of concern in humanitarian setting.

"Also in terms of structures, we have Several Agencies and parastatals dedicated to providing various social protection assistance to different categories of the population of Nigeria to lift millions out of poverty through different Social Investment and intervention programs under the watch of the ministry of humanitarian Affairs and poverty alleviation.

"All interventions including humanitarian interventions are now redesigned through the lenses of the Humanitarian- Development-Peace nexus to ensure sustainable response. 

"Most importantly, a  Humanitarian and Poverty Alleviation Trust Fund has equally been approved by the Federal Executive Council to ensure the mobilization of resources for social protection interventions," she said.

Dr. Edu who told the audience that  the time for action is now, stressed that the  Social Protection Framework for West Africa was intended to provide a broad set of guidelines and principles to ECOWAS and the Member States in the design and delivery of social protection interventions.

She was of the view that the effort was driven by the principle that the provision of comprehensive and adequate social protection would contribute to the improvement in the quality of life of the citizenry.

"In the light of the region’s exposure to a wide range of covariate shocks and common cross-border socio-economic challenges, the Framework aims at fostering higher levels of regional collaboration to broaden existing social protection systems and programs through a more coherent and effective approach to poverty reduction (SDG 1) and food and nutrition insecurity eradication (SDG 2) END HUNGER", Dr. Edu emphasized.

The Framework, according to the Nigerian Minister,  contributes to the achievement of several social protection-related SDG targets, especially SDG target 1.3, which seeks to implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all.

Also, speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the ECOWAS Regional Session,  the Vice President of the Gambia, Muhammad Jallow, commended the commitment of the member states on social protection in the region.

"The framework seeks to address endemic issues such as financing, coverage, climate risk, and informality in our economies amongst others.

"One of the fundamental challenges in our region is that project-based social protection is ad hoc and unpredictable. As a region, we must move to mainstream social protection into our annual budgets. 

"The Gambia hosted an international Social Protection conference earlier this month on the theme “Accelerating Financing for social protection to increase coverage and reach. "

"I am particularly pleased to note that the experts have dedicated a similar objective “ Improve fiscal space for comprehensive and inclusive social protection, " he added.

The Closing Ceremony was attended by ministers in charge of social protection in eleven countries and the Nigeria Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, who is the Chairman.

Woman arrested with decomposing new-born baby in polythene bag

By Dansu Peter 

A woman who threw a decaying infant baby into a plaza was arrested in the Sango Ota area of Ogun State on Sunday. 

According to media reports, the decomposing baby was allegedly thrown into the plaza by a 21-year-old lady identified as Esther Ojuko, whom some have alleged to be mentally imbalanced.

"Ojuko may have been mentally unstable at the time of the incident, according to the state police command," a reputational media source says.

According to reports, concerns started when some residents began a search for an item generating an offensive smell while it stinks in their vicinity. At a point, they discovered that the smell was coming from a sack behind a nearby compound, which a local later found out. As they unraveled the sack, their shock deepened upon discovering the tightly wrapped, decomposing body of the newborn.

A media report has it that a resident going by the name of Ogunmuyiwa allegedly went to the Sango-Ota Police Division to report the incident after making the discovery.

According to Punch Newspaper, Omolola Odutola, the public relations officer for the state police, verified the incident on Monday. She reportedly said that the mother had been found and was being held by the police on the murderous suspicion of the infant. 

Odutola added that a comprehensive inquiry has been started to determine the exact facts underlying the mother’s behavior.

Reports further indicate that the dead infant has been taken to the Ifo General Hospital mortuary for an autopsy.

Photo Credit: Punch 

UPDATED FULL LIST OF 147 APPROVED OR ACCREDITED PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA BY NUC

By Dansu Peter 

According to data obtained from the National Universities Commission' website, Nigeria has a total number of 147 accredited private universities. Any university not listed below, is by implication not accredited 

Apart from the government (State and Federal) owned universities, the following are the approved and accredited private university in Nigeria. 

1. Babcock University, Ogun State

2. Madonna University, Anambra State

3. Igbinedion University, Edo State

4. Bowen University, Osun State

5. Benson Idahosa University, Edo state

6. Covenant University, Ogun state

7. Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos State

8. American University of Nigeria, Adamawa State

9. Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State

10. Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin, Kwara State

11. AI-Qalam University, Katsina, Katsina State

12. Bells University of Technology, Otta, Ogun State

13. Bingham University, New-Karu, Nasarawa State

14. Caritas University, Enugu, Enugu State

15. Crawford University, Igbesa, Ogun State

16. Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State

17. Lead City University, Ibadan, Oyo State

18. Kwararafa University, Wukari, Taraba State

19. Redeemer’s University, Mowe, Ogun State

20. Renaissance University, Enugu, Enugu State

21. University of Mkar, Mkar, Benue State

22. Novena University, Ogume, Delta State

23. Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State

24. Veritas University, Abuja, FCT

25. Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State

26. African University of Science & Technology, Abuja

27. Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State

28. Fountain University, Oshogbo, Osun State

29. Obong University, Obong Ntak, Akwa Ibom State

30. Tansian University, Umunya, Anambra State

31. Wesley University of Science & Technology, Ondo State

32. Western Delta University, Oghara, Delta State

33. Salem University, Lokoja, Kogi State

34. Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti – Ekiti State

35. Godfrey Okoye University, Ugwuomu-Nike, Enugu State

36. Nigerian-Turkish Nile University, FCT Abuja

37. Oduduwa University, Ipetumodu, Osun State

38. Paul University, Awka, Anambra State

39. Rhema University, Obama-Asa, Rivers State

40 Wellspring University, Evbuobanosa, Edo State

41. Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State

42. Baze University, FCT Abuja

43. Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State

44. Glorious Vision University (formerly Samuel Adegboyega University), Ogwa, Edo State

45. McPherson University, Seriki Sotayo, Ajebo, Ogun State

46. Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State

47. Southwestern University, Oku Owa, Ogun State

48. Evangel University, Ebonyi State

49. Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State

50. Augustine University, Ilara, Lagos State

51. Chrisland University, Owode, Ogun State

52. Christopher University, Mowe, Ogun State

53. Hallmark University, Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State

54. Kings University Ode-Omu, Osun State

55. Michael & Cecilia Ibru University, Owhode, Delta State

56. Mountain Top University, Makogi/Oba, Ogun State

57. Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwalbom State

58. Summit University, Offa, Kwara State

59. Edwin Clark University, Kiagbodo, Delta State

60. Hezekiah University, Umudi, Imo State

61. Anchor University, Ayobo, Lagos State

62. Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State

63. Clifford University, Abia State

64. Coal City University, Enugu state

65. Ojaja University, Ilorin, Kwara state

66. Dominican University, Ibadan, Oyo State

67. Kola Daisi University., Ibadan, Oyo State

68. Legacy University, Okija, Anambra State

69. Spiritan University, Neochi, Abia State

70. Precious Cornerstone, Ibadan, Oyo State

71. PAMO University of Medical Sciences, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State

72. Atiba University, Oyo, Oyo State

73. Eko University of Medical Sciences, Ijanikin, Lagos

74. Skyline University, Nigeria, Kano, Kano State

75. Greenfield University, Kasarami-Kaduna, Kaduna State

76. Dominion University, Ibadan, Oyo State

77. Trinity University, Laloko, Ogun State

78. Westland University, Iwo, Osun State

79. Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Akwa-Ibom State

80. Thomas Adewumi University, Oko-Irese, Kwara State

81. Maranatha University, Lekki, Lagos State

82. Ave-Maria University, Piyanko, Nasarawa State

83. AL-Istigama University, Sumaila, Kano State

84. Mudiame University, Irrua, Edo State

85. Havilla University, Nde-Ikom, Cross River State

86. Claretian University of Nigeria, Nekede, Imo State

87. Karl-Kumm University, Vom, Plateau State

88. Nok University, Kachia, Kaduna State

89. James Hope University, Lekki, Lagos state

90. Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria, Kano, Kano State

91. Capital City University, Kano, Kano State

92. Ahman Pategi University, Patigi, Kwara State

93. University of Offa, Offa, Kwara State

94. Mewar University, Masaka, Nasarawa State

95. Edusoko University, Bida, Niger State

96. Philomath University, Kuje, Abuja

103. Sports University, Idumuje, Ugboko, Delta State

104. Baba-Ahmed University, Kano, Kano State

105. Saisa University Of Medical Sciences and Technology, Sokoto, Sokoto State

106. Nigerian British University, Asa, Abia State

107. Peter University, Achina-Onneh, Anambra State

108. Newgate University, Minna, Niger State

109. European University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT

110. Northwest University, Sokoto, Sokoto State

111. Rayhaan University, Kebbi State

112. Muhammad Kamalud-Deen University, Ilorin, Kwara State

113. Sam Maris University, Supare, Ondo State

114. Aletheia University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State

115. Lux Mundi University, Umuahia, Abia State

116. Maduka University, Ekwegbe, Enugu State

117. Peaceland University, Enugu, Enugu State

118. Amadeus University, Amizi, Abia State

119. Vision University, Ikogbo, Ogun State

120. Azman University, Kano, Kano State

121. Huda University, Gusau, Zamfara State

122. Franco British International University, Kaduna, Kaduna State

123. Canadian University of Nigeria, Abuja, FCT

124. Miva Open University, Abuja, FCT

125. Gerar University of Medical Sciences, Imope-ljebu, Ogun State

126. British Canadian University, Obudu, Cross River State

127. Hensard University, Toru-Orua, Bayelsa State

128. Phoenix University, Agwada, Nasarawa State

129. Wigwe University, Isiokpo, Rivers State

130. Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi Ekiti, Ekiti State

131. University on the Niger, Umunya, Anambra State

132. Elrazi University of Medical Sciences, Kano Kano State

133. Venite University, Iloro-Ekiti, Ekiti State

134. Shanahan University, Onitsha, Anambra State

135. The Duke Medical University, Calabar, Cross River State

136. Mercy Medical University, Iwara, Iwo, Osun State

137. Cosmopolitan University, Abuja, FCT

138. Iconic Open University, Sokoto, Sokoto State

139. West Midland Open University, Ibadan, Oyo State

140. Amaj University, Abuja, FCT

141. Prime University, Abuja, FCT

142. El-Amin University, Niger State

143. College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Kaduna, Kaduna State

144. Jewel University, Gombe, Gombe State

145. Nigerian University of Technology and Management, Apapa, Lagos State

146. Al-Muhibbah Open University, Abuja, FCT

147. Al-Bayan University, Kogi state

Maida urges Nokia to invest in Nigeria's ICT R&D

By Dansu Peter 

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has requested Nokia Networks to increase its investments in Research and Development (R&D) to support the growth of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Nigeria.

Maida spoke when a delegation from Nokia Networks of Finland led by the Deputy Minister, Under-Secretary of State for International Trade from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, Jarno Syrjala, visited the Commission recently to explore further opportunities for mutually-beneficial relationships.

He told the delegation that the Nigerian government is keenly interested in harnessing Nokia’s capabilities through technology transfer to support Nigerian youths in technical skills. 

The Nigerian government is targeting training of three million youths in ICT skills to advance the country’s digital economy.  “We are keen on getting the youths employed, as our Ministry is targeting three million youths for skills acquisition,” the EVC said.

Maida informed the Nokia contingent that the Commission places primacy in R&D as the bedrock of any knowledge economy, and for advancement of innovation.

He, therefore, urged Nokia and other Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), to explore R&D opportunities to deepen local content development in Nigeria.

While congratulating Maida on his appointment by President Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s chief telecom regulator, Syrjala said the purpose of the visit was to explore areas of collaboration to support Nigeria’s digital economy agenda.

Syrjala recalled Nokia's continued partnership with communications service providers in Nigeria, as well as cable and other operators to deliver critical network systems with high performance, reliability, and security. 

He noted that Nokia already has an R&D centre in Nigeria, and would target greater investment in this regard

The Role Of Alumni Relations In Advancement And linkages: A Note To Those Demarketing Benue State University In The Name Of Alumni Association

By Elijah Terdoo Ikpanor (Ph.D)

Director of Centre for Advancement and Linkages

Benue State University, Makurdi

The reputation of an educational institution lies on the shoulders of its students – Past and present. The reputation grows when it keeps producing successful graduates continuously i.e. intelligent, innovative and effective in their fields. Recently, Alumni members have helped institutions’ sustenance through their donations and voluntary help. Alumni members are helpful in providing valuable financial, intellectual and human resource base for their alma mater. 

In the post covid-19 era where resources for research and infrastructure development of Universities were affected directly, it is generally agreed by stakeholders that if a big chunk of money that Universities require comes from alumni, it will help in the area of competitive quality education. Therefore, so many Universities have re-engineered and positioned their Alumni Associations for effective service delivery in funding research and critical infrastructure. The Advancement and Linkages or Advancement and Global Affairs offices have focused their attention to identify, mobilize and provide enabling environment for past students’ support to their alma mater.

Unfortunately, Benue State University Alumni Association has passed through turbulent times over the years. This has denied Benue State University the opportunities therein her past students, affecting the increasing quest for the role of the Alumni Associations in the development of the University in the 21st century University governing system. As a result, the global metrics in rating Benue State University is also affected by the activities of the Alumni Association. 

Comparatively, Benue State University Alumni Association today is more promising to be robust in policy and actions if managed efficiently. One conspicuous fact is that, the University is growing and progressing extraordinarily in terms of Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies. This means that the population has also astronomically grown at the moment. This population increase therefore, translates to the increase of the membership of the Alumni Association. With large membership, the activities of the Alumni Association should have also been visible in terms of home-coming/reunion, scholarship/support to students, career mentorship/opportunities for Alumni members, fundraising and contributions to the University’s infrastructure and policy drive. 

Unfortunately, at no time the resourcefulness of the Association is harnessed. There has been proliferation of national officials, all scavenging for the financial subscriptions of fresh graduates. Instead of seeking for support from graduates of the University to contribute immensely to the development of the university, they rather scramble for the little resources that fresh graduates raise for the Association’s intervention to the development of the University. In other Universities, funds raised by fresh students are used for a particular project and credited to such a graduating class. In University of Jos, fresh graduates raise funds from every graduating student and put it in what they refer to as a “legacy project”. In Benue State University, the Alumni Association struggle over the funds raised by fresh graduates for their personal benefits. Regrettably, the desperation of members of the factions have not only mortified graduates that are highly placed in the society but have also brought the University to disrepute. While Degree is awarded in character and learning, some graduates have disappointedly shown lack of character in their quest to gain access to fresh graduates’ funds in the guise of involvement in the Alumni Association. Sadly, Benue State University has so many court cases that are instituted by these factions. They have also at different times, blackmailed and assassinated the character of Vice Chancellors and sometimes, other members of University management. It is regrettable that some past Vice Chancellors are still appearing before the court over issues of Alumni which are largely, driven by the personal interests of some past members of the Exco. 

The office of advancement and linkages where I superintend is greatly affected by the crisis in the Alumni Association. Recent outings by some factions are not aimed at building our university’s reputation and brand, securing donations and funding but are targeted at tarnishing the image of the University and this must be resisted by well-meaning graduates of Benue State University. Press releases and media campaigns by these groups are continuously carried out against the Vice Chancellor and University in the past one week. This is not healthy for the recent efforts of the advancement and linkages office in bringing graduates of Benue State University together for the development of the University’s infrastructure and scholarships to students. The advancement and linkages’ efforts are targeted at reaching out to responsible former students who have not adequately participated in the activities of the Alumni to come together and develop the University just like past students of other Universities. Some of these past students though highly connected and blessed with resources to impact on the University are apathetic to the activities of the Alumni Association. This is largely because of the embarrassing outings of the factions in the Alumni. This has affected class reunions, Alumni week, homecoming, in-person social events, alumni chapter meet-ups, and networking opportunities where funds could have been raised for the development of the University. It is interesting to note that none of those who have claimed to have loved the Association and are on rescue mission has brought innovations on how to source for funds for the development of the University. 

Benue State University will be celebrating thirty years anniversary of existence along 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th combined convocation ceremonies. During this time, some Benue State University graduates that have distinguished themselves in their chosen career will be celebrated too. This is what Benue State University wants from its graduates. Those that are good ambassadors will be celebrated while those that have deviated from the character upon which their degrees were awarded can be called to order. Some members of a particular faction has even threatened to stop the convocation from holding. This the height of it and security agencies should be made to watch out for the members of the faction. Universities have zero tolerance for falsehood. Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho withdrew the certificate a graduate for spreading falsehood. Kwara State University, Abia State University and Enugu State University of Science and Technology have all taken such steps in the past. Therefore, it is important for graduates of Benue State University to be of good character to account of themselves as graduates of Benue State University and not the spread of falsehood against the Vice Chancellor and Benue State University. Those who wish to lead the Association should think outside the box for the development of the University. They can consider so many approaches including the following;  

Scholarship/support to students

The recruitment of members into the activities of Alumni begins at the level of studentship. Those students who benefit from the activities of their former students can become more committed to the Alumni after graduation. There are various ways through which the Alumni associations impact on their students and it could be through Department and Faculty Scholarship programmes, support in getting them to settle down as new students, interventions in their utility needs on campus and several others. 

Career mentorship/opportunities for Alumni members

An alumni association brings former students together to maintain a connection with their university and fellow graduates. Fresh graduates get connected with professionals from their former schools. Without Alumni network, reunion and home-coming activities, these opportunities are lost. Our Alumni is still lagging behind on this situation. 

Fundraising and contributions to the University’s infrastructure and policy drive

University alumni can make strong contributions to the welfare of their alma mater but one of the most important ways they contribute is through financial donations. Last year, the University of Lagos Alumni Association attracted a massive building to their alma mater. We have seen Ahmadu Bello University Alumni, University of Ibadan Alumni Association raise huge amount of money for their Universities through their members. This is what we also expect from those that want to lead the Association in Benue State University.  

Alumni Network and Annual Week: Home-coming/reunion Activities

Benue State University Alumni Association can introduce a homecoming event that will bring all the former students back to the campus. Both alumni, students, and friends will participate in the many festivities that will take place on campus in every December. The aim will be to connect former students back to the university where they can have some fun, be a part of something bigger than themselves, and stay connected to their University family. 

Alumni Scholarship/support to students

Cultivate the policy of enlisting students who are prospective Alumni members into the benefits of the Association even as students. Members of the Alumni who are doing well in their chosen carriers can be encouraged to institute scholarships and tuition support in the Departments and faculties. Alumni can institute career guide and mentorship sessions for the students where members of the Alumni will feature from time to time to engage the students. These interventions will knit the alumni members together with the students and the benefit therein will continue to sustain the bond and in turn will contribute to the development of the University generally. 

My dear Benue State University graduates, Benue State University needs all of you for critical infrastructure development and scholarships to students. We will reach out to you soon for your cooperation in setting up an enviable robust Association. As a link person between the University and Alumni, I assure you that we will achieve success with Unity. Benue State Alumni Association must rise above local sentiments. We must flourish as a vehicle that will drive development in Benue State University, Makurdi.

FHA At 50: Shelter Afrique Promises To Inject $40 Billion Into Nigeria Housing

By Abubakar Yusuf

The Managing Director, Chief Executive Officer Shelter Afrique now Shelter Afrique Development Bank, Mr Thierna- Habib Hann has assured Nigerians of systematic injection of $40B into the construction of houses across the country in the coming years.

Shelter Afrique, a Development Finance Institution ( DFI) , had invested heavily in housing development across the globe.

Mr Hann who made this revelation on Friday during the presentation of a paper via zoom with a theme, "Building A Strong Financial Model for Sustainable Mass Housing Delivery in Nigeria" commended Senator Gbenga Ashafa led Federal Housing Authority FHA on his giant strides in the agency, inspite not listed on the nation's annual budget. 

He said the organization was encouraged to partner with FHA going forward, having carried out a robust policy on housing development and model partnership policy in recent years.

He restated the commitment of Shelter Afrique Development Bank to begin a systematic injection of $20B next year in 2024 , so as to provide mass housing both in Lagos and Abuja and spread to other cities of Nigeria.

"We are particularly elated by the Rent to Own, Echo Friendly, Mortgages and Public Private Partnership PPP arrangements of the Federal Housing Authority FHA, which is line with the best practices, hence our intention to key in" Hann maintained. 

The Managing Director stated that the organization will commence it's housing by keying into the Rent to Own arrangements by 2024, particularly in areas like Lagos and Abuja.

He maintained that Housing development is capital intensive, appealing to Nigerian government to intervene in the coming years as promised, so as to coincide with the global supports from the Shelter Afrique Development Bank.

Hann congratulated the management of Federal Housing Authority FHA for achieving the golden feat, while urging Nigerians to display confidence in the ability of the agency to resolving housing deficit in the country.

The Managing Director assured the Authority that it will take the country to the target of providing 1M houses to it's citizens annually.

NASC Conference And Consolidation Of Democracy In Nigeria

By Abubakar Yusuf

Twice in three consecutive years of the leadership of the National Assembly Service Commission NASC under the Chairman of the commission, Engr Ahmed Kadi Amshi FNSE and his commissioners, alot has been achieved towards democratic advancement across it's strata in the current dispensation.

The previous conference which came up in Kaduna state in 2021 , was a point of convergence for the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and States Assembly Service Commissions SASCs to chart away forward towards creating more enabling environment for the commission to thrive both at National and State Assembly Service Commissions level.

The success story of both the 8th and recently 9th Assembly conference held in Abuja between the 17th-20th October, 2023 was an indicator that both Federal and State governments under the umbrella of the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and State Assembly Service Commissions' operations is streamlined to ensure the wholistic independence and not only administrative autonomy, but financial controls by the States Assembly Service Commissions. 

This year's conference with it's theme "Excellence in Parliamentary Service: A Panacea for Good Legislation and Democratic Governance" took place at Maryam Babangida Women Development Centre MBWDC was declared open by the Senate President, Obong Godswill Akpabio.

With impressive attendance from States Assembly Service Commissions members and 21 states of the federation was also graced by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Honorable Tajudeen Abbas, including Chairmen of public service matters in the lower and upper chamber. 

The event witnessed alot of brainstorming, technical sessions and paper presentation by speakers and heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government in Nigeria, with a key note address delivered from Professor Ayo Omotayo with six other papers on various topics as sub-themes delivered by recognised facilitators at the conference.

The positive coloration of this year's conference was the presentation by top democratic and leadership agencies like the Public Complaints Commission PCC, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies NIPSS, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies NILDS, and National Assembly Library Trust Fund NALTF led by their leadership to add more colour to the program.

Under the leadership of Amshi and his commissioners alot has been achieved to regularise the activities of the National and States Assembly Service Commission in line with the best practices.

In his giant strides, efforts was redoubled to ensure the pursuance of unified laws establishing it in line with the operations of the National Assembly Service Commission and State Assembly Service Commissions SASCs,  through interface with Speakers of States House Assembly.

Training and re-training of commissions staff both at the National and States Assembly Service Commissions should also be prioritized, with political will and standard laws established and also suggested that appointment of top notchers of State Assembly Service Commissions should at the purview of the State Assembly Service.

The conference insisted on financial autonomy as a follow up to the administrative autonomy granted to the state legislatures as practiced at the National level as guaranteed by the 1999 constitution in line with the laws, so that funds to the commission are released uninterruptedly.

The conference also called for synergy, lobbying and good working relationship to achieve these feats through the harnessing of Executive and Legislative to enhance release and approval of funds.

With improved relationship, funds both local and international bodies particularly democratic countries through grants and aids to ensure good governance.

It also resolved that State Assembly Service Commissions should explore both Policy, Legal Advocacy Centre geared towards building necessary and knowledgeable expertise to enhance excellence in Parliamentary Service.

The commission advocated uniformity in guidelines on appointments, promotions, discipline and code of ethics for the staffs and also the domestication of NASC scheme of service, conditions of service and all others applicable to NASC and SASCs.

A regular interface between the National and States Assembly Service Commissions, Chairmen, and Secretaries of State Assembly Service Commission every three months, as well as a council on Establishment for Legislative arm of government to enhance stability in the National and State Assembly Service Commissions.

The 2023 conference no doubt was an improvement and collective bargaining template existing between the National Assembly Service Commission NASC and State Assembly Service Commissions.

Yusuf , Writes from Abuja on [email protected].

National Assembly Leadership Retreat; An X-ray Of NILDS Strides

By Abubakar Yusuf

For the leadership of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies NILDS, the primary mandate of positioning robust legislative arm to contend with the present realities cannot be overlooked, as the new development coincided with the zeal , ability and experience of the top echelon under the leadership of Professor Abubakar Olarenwaju Sulaiman, as a former National Planning Minister in the previous administration.

The proactive tendencies been enjoyed under the foresighted leadership particularly at the Legislative arm spread to the Executive arm or government had placed the agency at the front burner of all programs, geared towards not only sustaining the over two decades practices of Nigeria democracy since 1999, but also to to sustain the momentum.

Therefore, the singular idea muted in the maiden meeting of principal officers of the National Assembly came at the right time and the right decisions in the prevailing circumstances.

Dealing with an arm charged with not only legal , but regulatory framework of the activities of the Executive and Judicial arm or government in the area of execution of government policies and interpretation of the Laws, the decisions of Sulaiman led NILDS was timely and germane.

It also came at a time when the National Assembly leadership and members was highly mixed particularly across party lines, beyond the conventional two party system of APC and PDP.

The historic and first ever conference of September 21st and 22nd , 2023 held in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom state,  muted had gone down memory lane by displaying the administrative wisdom and political temerity of the leadership of NILDS under the current helmsman.

Arithematically, no doubt that the current National Assembly of 109 Senators consists of 59 APC, 39 PDP, 8 LP 2 NNPP and APGA 1 while the green chamber of the House of Representatives 178 APC, 113 PDP, 35 LP, 19 NNPP, 5 APGA, 2YPP, and 2 ADC.

For synergy between the three arms and setting agenda for the other arms of government, the need for more patriotic debates and deliberations devoid of any party affiliations became sacrosanct.

The 10th National Assembly lawmakers both at the red and green chamber are also expected to carry out oversight functions of MDA's, to solve myriads of problems not created by them , which included standing committees.

With the National Assembly members and leadership on the driver's seat, and new political party members in the saddle, careful management and disposition for good administration and elections in future became needful.

For a well thought out National Assembly, the leadership must be alive to it's responsibility with a well funded, well staffed, to carry out research with required expertise in that area.

With adequate oversight not compromised with the Executive arm interms of sponsorship and it's activities away from the myopic believes of the government departments.

The conference regarded as timely with the resumption of the current 10th Assembly with 73 members of Senate as first timers and over 200 members of the House in that category, hence justifying the desire for the event in Akwa Ibom state.

With the present status of both chamber, the orientation program was expected to guard against partisanship of committees assignments, caucus arrangements, and co-chaired to display high level of patriotism and integrity.

The leadership must also be seen to be diverse, balance, effective representation, dialogue so as to make good laws for the country.

The need for such a laudable fora aside creating synergy among federal lawmakers and reorientation, it will bring about cohesion, concession and cross party line collaborations with national interest at the front burner, against winner takes all. 

With Ranking advantage as part of the corrolary for leadership effectiveness at the National Assembly, given the new entrants of an unexpected figure of 73 Senators and over 200 members, the need for such fora convened by NILDS was timely. 

The vital roles of Ranking advantage of both Lower and Upper arm of the Legislators is manifested in the constitution of committees and special committees, which consisted of 8 special committees and 63 standing committees for Senate while the House of Representatives had 7 special committees,and 74 standing committees expanded to over 100 for ease of assignments. 

NILDS proactiveness at convening the conference in September at Akwa Ibom state was to ensure the committee of the whole house at the red and green chamber functions properly, adequately and effectively.

With the adequate orientation and reorientation of the Legislative arm of government at the early part of the 10th Assembly, it is capable of galvanizing and preparing the leadership of the Assembly to deliver not only on its statutory mandate of lawmaking, but interpretation and applications in all spheres.

The unique leadership disposition at NILDS under Professor Abubakar Sulaiman Olarenwaju will not only promote democracy, but enhance dividends of democracy extended to all the nooks and crannies of the country.

Yusuf , A Public Affairs Analyst, Writes from Abuja on [email protected].

Golden Jubilee; FHA Honors General Manager, Public Private Partnership PPP Hajara Kadiri At Award Night

By Abubakar Yusuf

It was a honor for whom it was due, particularly for the General Manager in charge of Public Private Partnership PPP, Barr. Hajara Kadiri of the Federal Housing Authority, FHA at the award night.

Hajara, a lawyer by profession with certification in PPP , having served at one time or the other as General Manager, Marketing and Corporate Services before her new feat.

The gala, award and dinner night was set aside to reward dedication, hard work, and excellent performances of officers, both serving ,retired and particularly the likes of Barr. Hajara Kadiri under her stewardship partnerships had taken a new toll, growth and dimension in FHA.

The night was witnessed by top serving,  former management and board of the agency including staffs who had distinguished themselves in their choosen career and also honored.

The event which took place at the elaborate and wholly filled opening ceremony of the Golden Jubilee, was held at the same venue, the international conference centre ICC, Abuja earlier in the day.

For the legal luminary turned builder,  Hajara Kadiri, the head of Public Private Partnerships PPP in FHA, the story of the current strides in the agency will not be complete, without the mentioning of her giant strides towards a robust PPP arrangements muted by the new FHA.

Under her supervision and leadership of the Managing Director, Chief Executive officer CEO, Federal Housing Authority FHA, Senator Gbenga Ashafa alot had been achieved through PPP arrangements, that revolved the heart of the nation's city, Abuja, Lagos and other cities in the country, including the 36 states of the country. 

The success story of many PPP arrangements consumated by the Authority that was adored everywhere across the country, and had transformed the zeal of affordable housing for all, by the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

For Barr. Hajara Kadiri, it was a dream come true and fulfilment of life expectations, for holding her head high in the comity of achievers of public service recognition.

CAC Partners SMEDAN To Catalyse SME Growth, 10,000 Jobs In Focus

By Abubakar Yusuf

 

The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is making arrangements to partner with the small and medium

Enterprises Development

Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to create 10,000 jobs, amongst others.

 

This was revealed during a meeting between the Registrar-General of the CAC, Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, and the Director General, SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii.

 

The SMEDAN boss revealed that a 5-billion-naira loan at single-digit interest has been secured from a famous Nigerian bank to drive the project.

 

He therefore requested support and collaboration with the CAC to actualize the project, which is scheduled to launch in January 2024.

 

The CAC Registrar-General, while responding, assured the Commission’s readiness to fully partner with SMEDAN.

 

He described the initiative as laudable and in tandem with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

CAC News reports that the SMEDAN DG was accompanied on the visit by Dr. Aishatu Kabir of KPMG, who is expected to facilitate the actualization of the project, which will also focus on increasing manufacturing output and export income, thereby catalysing SME growth.

Wike abusing public trust to service Rivers allies, cronies - FCT Citizens, CSOs tell Tinubu

By Dansu Peter 

Some indigenes of the Federal Capital Territory and civil society groups have accused Nyesom Wike of personalizing the affairs of the nation's capital. 

Under the auspices of the FCT Citizens and Civil Society Group, they further claimed that Wike is abusing public trust to service his allies and cronies in Rivers State. 

He was also accused to massive land allocation to members of the Rivers House of Assembly. 

The group made this known at a press conference on Sunday in Abuja by its convener, Daniel Okwa. 

"We are raising these concerns because we have received credible information from various sources that Mr Wike has been using his position to enrich himself at the expense of the citizens of this country," the statement said.

"These questionable conducts on the part of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory are in the areas of shady allocation of land to cronies and highest bidders, usurpation of the role of civil servants, intimidation and extortion of property owners and developers, failure to address the genuine issues in the FCT, and lack of accountability in the administration of the FCT.

"On the issue of intimidation and extortion of property owners and developers, Wike has been hiding behind what is otherwise a legitimate demand for ground rent and Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) fee to carry out his shady dealings. He has used the threat of demolition of property and revocation of allocation to force people to pay these monies. 

"While these payments are expected and legal, Wike’s demand for them is more tailored towards raising funds, which is problematic because there is no mechanism in place to adequately protect such funds from embezzlement. This is even as there are concerns that his proxies might have been on the take, allegedly receiving funds on his behalf from property owners who are compelled to negotiate additional grace periods because of the unrealistic deadline given to meet the demand notice.

"We also have allegations that suggest that Mr. Wike has been awarding contracts to his friends and family members and using public funds to finance his lifestyle. This is unacceptable behaviour for any public official, let alone a Minister of the Federal Government. 

"Furthermore, we have reason to believe that Mr. Wike has been intimidating and harassing political opponents, stifling free speech and press freedom in the process. This is a clear violation of the fundamental human rights enshrined in our constitution. 

"As concerned citizens, we cannot sit back and watch as our hard-earned resources, paid to the FCT in various forms of taxes and levies, are being mismanaged and wasted by corrupt officials like Wike. We call on the relevant anti-graft agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations. We also urge all residents of the FCT to join us in this fight against corruption. 

"Contrary to the law and spirit of administering the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Wike has engaged in another disturbing trend, he has been engaging in discriminatory practices in the allocation of land and employment opportunities. 

"Wike has focused on his G-5 as the beneficiaries of land allocations since he came into office with other exceptions being people from his ethnic stock in the Niger Delta. His recent allocation of land to some members of the Rivers State House of Assembly is clear evidence of this, which implies he is using FCT land as a political tool to service his followers in Rivers State instead of servicing the interest of the masses. 

"This is a clear violation of the principles of fairness, equity, and justice that should guide the allocation of national resources. We believe that this kind of discriminatory behaviour is unacceptable in a country that is striving to build a cohesive and inclusive society. It creates divisions and undermines national unity. It also sends the wrong message to the international community about our commitment to democracy and the rule of law. 

"As concerned citizens, we call on the relevant authorities to investigate these allegations and to take appropriate action to address this issue. We also call on all Nigerians to reject any form of discrimination and to work towards building a society that is based on the principles of justice, fairness, and equality. We believe that every Nigerian, regardless of their ethnic background or region of origin, has the right to equal access to land and employment opportunities. 

"We will not remain silent while the rights of our fellow citizens are being trampled upon by those in positions of power. We urge all Nigerians to stand together in the fight against discrimination and to work towards building a better and more inclusive Nigeria."

Golden Jubilee; Senator Ashafa Tasks FHA Staff On Service Delivery

By Abubakar Yusuf

The Managing Director, Chief Executive officer CEO, Federal Housing Authority FHA, Senator Gbenga Ashafa has asked the staff of the agency to deploy their huge wealth of experiences into the expansion of the scope of performance in line with the new directives from the government.

He dropped this charge during the closing ceremony of the two day celebration of the 50 years of the existence of the Agency .

The Managing Director who referred to the contributions of the father of the nation and former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, under whose leadership the agency  was established, and his charge on the need not to only provide shelter, but to boost community settlements and socioeconomic development of all spheres of the country.

He said the former Nigeria leader avered that the establishment of the agency was to further foster unity, peace, and development of the country. 

He also tasked staff to leverage on the admonition of the Senate President, Obong Godswill Akpabio, who commended the Authority with a charge to sustain the tempo in line with the present realities.

Ashafa who also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's appointment of a seasoned professional as the Minister of Housing and Urban Development lauded the creation of the new Ministry whose leadership few months at the mantle of leadership under Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa has set out a road map to reposition the agency.

"We are going to harness the wealth of experience of the senior staff and the newly recruited ones who are distinct professionals in diverse field to realise the matching orders of the minister to deliver about 1 Million houses per annum."

He said the contributions of both local and international stakeholders will galvanize all human and material resources towards repositioning the Authority.

Also , the contributions of the former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola in his key note address where he commended management on digitization which is nearing completion , expansion of mortgages among many others, including Rent to Own arrangements,so as to compete favourably with the private sector.

He said the management was proactive in the provision of welfare packages to staff, creating an enabling environment through training and retraining with a view to deploying the best of their intellectuals. 

Senator Gbenga Ashafa appreciated both the local and international stakeholders on the success of the program.

FHA At 50; Former MD, Arc Gemade Calls For More Collaborations From Stakeholders

By Abubakar Yusuf

The Former Managing Director, Federal Housing Authority FHA, Arc Terver Gemade has called for more collaborations between the stakeholders in the housing sector to give more supports to the management of the authority so as to deliver on its mandate.

He made this observation during his contributions to the panelists discussion on Friday during the celebration of 50 years anniversary at international conference centre ICC, Abuja.

Gemade who commended the good intentions of the current administration as outlined by the current Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa was a coincidence of the  leadership of the Authority under Senator Gbenga Ashafa.

He urged the private sector to open up to more partnerships that will not only galvanize the provision of affordable housing, but robust shelter for ordinary Nigerians.

Gemade appeal to the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under it's Renewed Hope Agenda to detach bureaucratic bottlenecks towards making real it's promise go provide immediate funds as succour to FHA that will translate into realising 1M houses per annum.

The former Managing Director also appeal to the international agencies to do more in the area of funding, stating that provision of funds had been militating against housing development and had contributed to housing deficit in the country .

Senate Minority Leader: David Mark Praises Abba Morro

..... Describes him as a worthy successor 

Press Release

Former President of the Senate , Senator David Mark has praised the new minority leader of  the Senate Senator Abba Morro (PDP Benue South).

Abba Morro   who succeeded Senator Mark in the Senate emerged   Minority leader at the resumed plenary session yesterday following the exit of his predecessor senator Simon Mwadkwon from Plateau state.

In the congratulatory message  , Senator Mark  noted "  This remarkable achievement is a testament to your exceptional leadership skills, unwavering dedication, and the trust and confidence your colleagues have in you.

"Your elevation to such a crucial position is a testament to the respect and admiration you have earned throughout your distinguished career. 

"Your commitment to public service, tireless advocacy for your constituents, and your ability to bridge divides make you an exemplary choice for the role of Minority Leader".

The former Senate President added "as the Minority Leader, you will undoubtedly face numerous challenges and responsibilities . However, I  have no doubt that your wealth of experience, sharp intellect, and unwavering principles will guide you in navigating these complexities with grace and resilience. 

"Your ability to foster collaboration, encourage bipartisan dialogue, and find common ground will be instrumental in shaping thoughtful and impactful policies for the betterment of our nation".

He stressed  : "Your election also serves as an inspiration to aspiring leaders who look up to you as a role model. Your dedication to public service and your unwavering commitment to the values that define our great nation will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of leaders".

Senator Mark described Abba Morro as a worthy successor  saying " I have every confidence that you will excel in your new role as the Minority Leader and continue to make a significant difference in the lives of our  people".

Paul Mumeh

Special Adviser to Senator David Mark.

Kunav Nation Distances Self From The Presentation Of Saasaa To Akume As President, Kunav Youth, Says He Is Not Recognized

November 25, 2023

My attention has been drawn to a post made early this week about the presentation of Saasaa Ajav to my father and leader, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in North-Central and Benue State, Sen. Dr. George Akume at his Abuja residence as the President of Kunav Youth by the member representing Vandeikya/Konshisha Federal Constituency of Benue State, Hon. Sesoo Gboko Ikpagher.

I want to make it explicitly clear that despite the fact that Sesoo Gboko represents Jechira which is made up of Vandeikya and Konshisha, matters concerning the Kunav nation should be handled with respect for Vandeikya Traditional Council and other stakeholders, thus, he was supposed to contact Ter Kunav, His Royal Highness Josephus Nyiyongo Achiaku who is also the Chairman, Vandeikya Traditional Council before embarking on such visit of impersonation which has exposed his ineptitude in handling matters of serious concerns.

The action of Sesoo Gboko is a gross disregard for Kunav nation, Ter Kunav, all the elders and stakeholders in the affairs of the Kunav nation. 

I'm the President General Mbadede Development Association (MDA) WorldWide , member Concerned Kunav Elders' Forum which Ter Kunav and Tor Jechira are members and above all I am the Treasurer of Mzough U   Tiv worldWide. I am also the Trustee Secretary Kunav Youth Organization while Ter Kunav is the Trustee President.

Saasaa Ajav, the self-acclaimed President of Kunav Youth hails from Mbausu, Mbadede of Kunav nation. I believe that if I have a son who is the President of Kunav Youth, I should know. Saasaa is not a member of Kunav Youth but a charter man in Kunav land and any other place in Nigeria.  He is a grand father of over 50 years and not a youth in any form.

If Saasaa claims to be the President of Kunav Youth, He should provide evidence of recognition from Vandeikya Traditional Council or Kunav Traditional Council or Kunav United Development Association (KUDA).

Apart from Tor Jechira and Ter Kunav by virtue of my position as Treasurer Mzough U Tiv, I am the only person who is well informed  on current events in Kunav nation and has all the information regarding all the associations and other related organizations in Kunav nation.

The public is warned strongly that anybody dealing with Saasaa as President Kunav Youth is taking a big risk as the entire Kunav nation doesn't recognize Saasaa as such.

Those who need clarification on this issue should contact Ter Kunav, His Royal Highness, Josephus Nyiyongo Achiaku or my humble self.

Signed:

Barr. Stephen Akpehe,

President General, Mbadede Development Association (MDA) Worldwide; member, Concerned Kunav Elders' Forum; Treasurer, Mzough U Tiv Worldwide; Trustee Secretary, Kunav Youth Organization.

INEC: An Umpire In The Eye Of The Storm, By Richard Odusanya.

By Richard Odusanya 

The most recent example of the elections, conducted by the National Electoral Commission (NEC), in Liberia has become a litmus test and further demised the examples of other countries in Africa, particularly, the Nigerian counterpart Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

By contrast, its counterpart 'NEC' in Liberia, showcased independent and unbiased attributes. While INEC since the beginning of the 4th republic, particularly in 2003 and 2007, was a horrible misrepresentation of an unbiased umpire. The organization should have been seen to be manifestly organized, through its actions, utterances, and behavior, in free, fair, and credible elections.

A classic example of a particular character in the Nigeria's electoral heist is Maurice Mmaduakolam Iwu, a Nigerian professor of pharmacognosy who was appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in June 2005, and was removed from office in April 2010. Iwu under the supervision of the executive branch of government then conducted the highly flawed 2007 general elections which was the foundation of where we are today.

More relatively, in a twist of events, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, alleged a few days ago, that its suspended Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in Adamawa State, Barr. Hudu Yunusa Ari, and his surety were on the run, having evaded arrest. As unfortunate as the Adamawa debacle may seem, this is not the first time we have witnessed the sordid scenario of electoral officials going rogue. It may interest one to know that such an irresponsible actions persist in the system.

Sadly, that nobody has ever been punished for it perhaps explains why the problem has festered in a nation where citizens have come to accept that there are no consequences for bad behavior. Therefore, In my considered opinion, the Adamawa debacle with the propensity to consume the entire system can be classified as 21st century madness. It does not matter whether we agree with the verdict or not - one thing I will say straight away is that while we forward march in equanimity, there is the need to begin the process of rebuilding trust between the Nigeria's electoral system and the voters. 

Unfortunately, there is a symbiotic relationship between the recklessness of the institutions as exemplified by INEC; Judiciary, Legislative, and Executive. For the purposes of clarity, Nigeria is a structural failure. Essentially, it signposts, indeed confirms, that character is not a happenstance thing, it is built up and leaders emerge from being followers once. Nigeria's problems can be summed up in one phrase: not just corruption but intellectual poverty. Unless we fix our moral compass we are going nowhere.

Admittedly, a nation progresses or regresses on the quality and values of its leadership. It is thus, imperative that we begin to evaluate the soundness of our judgement, integrity of our system and sincerity of purpose. As a matter of fact, everyone under any democracy knows that this doesn’t worth even the  paper it’s written on without the change of mindset. Therefore, the need for 'Mind Restructuring' becomes inevitable. 

Flowing from the  above, much as, I agreed, that judicial intervention is critical in criminal, political and civil matters. However, it's unfair and big injustice  that voters should be disenfranchised by the cancellation of their votes due to no fault of their own but INEC negligence. One of the examples that readily comes to mind is that of Rt. Hon Rotimi Amaechi, which is a travesty of law and continued reverberating today. 

Below are some of the issues that are agitating the minds of our citizens and stakeholders which should be properly addressed:

1. An efficient and effective litigation system ought to be in place such that can ensure to exhaust all possible legal contentions arising from elections matters,  before the Swearing-in of elected public office holders

2. Pre-primary elections matters sorted and not come up in post election litigation.

3. In areas where list of voters who actually voted are not stamped by INEC, rather than cancel, call for new elections in those places.

4. Most importantly is the need for  independence of INEC, Executive, Legislature and Judiciary in election process. This will eventually help create peoples trust in the electoral process and restore confidence in the minds of our citizens.

5. The power to remove any elected person or determine the winner of any election should be withdrawn from the judiciary. The judiciary should only be vested with the power to call for a new election in disputed areas.

 6. In any area where violence or manipulation is established, elections should be cancelled outrightly by INEC. Unless in situations where the effect of such cancellation substantially affect the overall results, a re-run election may be conducted by INEC before the declaration of final results.

Put differently, in challenging times like the present situation we are in, the best recipe for Hope' is to ensure that our institutions particularly INEC stand firmly as envisaged in the constitution. The wisdom that strong governments rest on strong institutions reflects in modern democracy through the separation of powers, a system which allows for checks and balances. It is only in a retrogressive society, that you will find strong individuals rather than strong institutions.

It is noteworthy however to take into critical cognizance the human angles to these issues, being very much aware of the perculiarity of our social systems in Nigeria.

It is a fact that majority of Nigeria citizens have over time become exceedingly unruly and Indisciplined which altogether engenders such disorderly political culture in the citizenry, a penchant to always try to circumvent the laws and systems. This certainly will continually make mockery of legislative efforts at achieving perfect electoral laws.

There is the challenge of politicians who may  have justifiable motivation for desperation to win their election into political offices considering the enormous costs of prosecuting electoral matters in Nigeria.

INEC and the NASS therefore have a great duty of fashion suitable system that could create such fields as would make political participation a cheaply as possible, draw in more credible people who may otherwise have be scared away by their inability to mobilize a financial war chest and therefore generally make politics and political offices not so attractive.

In conclusion, permit me to share with us the profound words of former President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, while addressing the Ghanaian Parliament during a courtesy visit to Ghana in 2009.

Obama remarked as follows: "No country is going to create wealth if its leaders exploit the economy to enrich themselves, or police can be bought off by drug traffickers. No business wants to invest in a place where the government skims 20 per cent off the top, or the head of the Port Authority is corrupt. No person wants to live in a society where the rule of law gives way to the rule of brutality and bribery. That is not democracy, that is tyranny, and now is the time for it to end. Africa doesn't need strong men; it needs strong institutions."

Richard Odusanya

[email protected]

CIFCFIN Registrar Tasks Governments On Proactive Policies Against Fraud

By Abubakar Yusuf

The Ag Registrar, CEO and Chairman, Abuja Chapter of Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria CIFCFIN, Dr Isa Salifu has asked government at all levels to develop a template to curb fraudulent activities so as to guarantee accountability in all areas.

The Registrar bare his mind on Thursday during the maiden celebration of the 2023 international fraud week at a press conference organised by the institute in Abuja. 

He said the only panacea to corrupt activities prevalent both in the private and public sectors is to partner with the institute for forensic inculcation in all it's process and activities.

Dr Salifu expressed fear on the portfolio of fraud running into 1.4 trillion in the current year 2023, and the fear of it's escalation to 3 Trillion in the next two years in 2023, stating that the resources could be protected and channeled to the provision of social services to Nigerians.

The Ag Registrar maintained that the institute is readily available for government at Federal and State level as well as the private sector to drive the economy and instill sanity in all processes.

Dr Salifu solicited for partnerships with the media aimed at propagating the digital fiscal process, to detach Nigeria  from the perennial sharp practices.

The Indecorous And Frenzied Indulgence By Sahara Reporters In Cheap Propaganda Is Shameful, Unbefitting, Unprofessional And Anti Democracy

In all democratic settings it is well known that newspapers,both print and online play vital roles in determining the brightness of good governance and civil responsibility for both the government and the governed. This is why successive governments have overtime encouraged and provided sufficient privileges for newspapers to thrive in our democracy,which I may not wish to describe it as nascent in Nigeria. 

However,there is a huge visible slide from the rational democratic responsibilities of some emerging newspaper outlets which have compromised their standard bearings,only to lead in the ill-fated path of causing disaffection,spreading of misleading reports,and unwholesome involvements in criminally induced sponsorship and publications of injurious falsehoods. 

A stark example of the above unfortunate case is that of the activities of SAHARA REPORTERS on the social media. I have noticed that in the last couple of years,the person or people behind the shameless and disgraceful outings of SAHARA REPORTERS have sold their pride to indecency and lies,while encouraging the attitude of blackmails,mischief and public deceit. 

Yesterday,I read an obviously PDP sponsored and hysterically mischievous report emanating from SAHARA REPORTERS that the Executive Governor of Benue State,His Excellency,Rev. Fr.Dr. Hyacinth Alia approved the sum of N2 billion for the procurement of vehicles for appointees of the government and for his office.While I consider the above report by SAHARA REPORTERS as not only petty but idiotic and nonsensical as far as the immeasurably significant functions and responsibilities of government appointees and the Governor are summarily concerned vis- a - vis the need to procure mobility for them. 

While I put it to SAHARA REPORTERS that their publication against the Governor of Benue State is mischievously motivated and sponsored by the usual forces of negative opposition, I wish to equally draw their attention to the following,which certainly they are not well informed about: 

1. Let SAHARA REPORTERS know that since the inception of the administration of His Excellency,Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia in Benue State,the Governor has brought in and sustained the integrity of a responsible leader whose divine inspirations from his calling as a Catholic Priest have better situated him to ensuring the prompt payment of salaries of Benue workers,including the arrears there accumulated and left behind by the former PDP government. This credible trend has been sustained not from federal government allocation but from the Governor’s prudent management and harnessing of internally generated revenue and audit systems. 

2. Let SAHARA REPORTERS know that since inception of the administration of His Excellency,Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia in Benue State,the Governor solicited for the understanding of government appointees,including members of the legislature to allow him address some of the immediate promises he made to the people of Benue,before any other matter concerning the welfare and working condition of such appointees could be addressed,including the provision of vehicles for mobility and functional activities. This was understood and consented to by the appointees and the elected officials,regardless of the urgent significance of mobility as a critical factor for the effectiveness and efficiency of government functionaries. It instructive to state that Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia’s approval for vehicles to be purchased (if at all it is so) is definitely not unconnected to the emerging urgent need to ensure that government functionaries are at this point provided with facilities that would support their roles in government and to the Governor for purposes of good governance without hindrances and hurdles. 

3. Coming to the specific hysterically petty,misleading and mischievous alarm by SAHARA REPORTERS over the approval of N2 billion by Governor Hyacinth Alia for vehicles to be purchased for government officials,I wish to put it that SAHARA REPORTERS are not competent and they lack knowledge about the number of appointees or elected officials in the government of Benue State,as well as the rising cost of vehicles,which in this case,the amount of 2 billion Naira ( if at all it is so) is for the necessity of the workings of the government. Hence,the diatribe against Governor Hyacinth Alia by SAHARA REPORTERS is only but a confirmation of the fact that they are a bunch of cash-and -carry outfit for useless,idiotic and misleading propaganda in Nigerian  democracy. 

4. I wish to encourage SAHARA REPORTERS to say what they know and they should dissuade from busy-body media practice. For the records,of which SAHARA REPORTERS should know is that,in the past five months of the administration of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia in Benue State,the Governor has successfully embarked on very aggressive and deliberate development policies,programmes and projects,including rural and urban rehabilitation/renewal of over 23 ongoing roads across the state, rehabilitation of internally displaced persons(IDPs),civil service reforms,steady payment of salaries and pensions,intensive strategic collaborations and fight against insecurity,agricultural and food security initiatives and incentives,Executive-Legislative harmony,etc. SAHARA REPORTERS should also tell the world of these feats which are legendary to the credit of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, the Governor! 

Dr. Mkor Aondona writes as the Special Adviser to the Executive Governor of Benue State on Research,Documentation and Strategy 

20th November,2023

Four Decades After, Family Holds Memorial Prayers For Late Hajia Salimetu Laraba Sule Akagwu, November 25

By Abubakar Yusuf

The family of the late Matriarch, Community and Woman Leader, Hajia Salimetu Laraba Sule Akagwu who died 40 years ago will hold a memorial prayers for the late woman leader.

A letter of invitation issued by the family members indicated that the occasion will hold on November , 25 at the family house , Omedo area, Anyigba, Dekina local government area of Kogi state.

The family statement further stated that the special prayers will hold at 10 .00am prompt of the same day.

The late community, woman leader and highly influential opinion moulder in Anyigba was blessed by many children , grand children and great great grand children who were left to celebrate with prayers for a life well spent while alive.

Hajia Salimetu Laraba Sule Akagwu,a mother , grand mother and great grand mother was highly revered for her numerous community service and contributions to the social and economic development of Anyigba town, during her life time.

Guests expected at the occasion are advised to honor the memorial prayers as the family prays for Almighty Allah to continue to reward her with Aljanatul firdaus.

FHA @ 50 : President Tinubu Declare Event Open, As Management Rolls Out Program Of Events from 23, 24

By Abubakar Yusuf

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to declare the two day golden jubilee celebration of Federal Housing Authority FHA open at the International Conference Center ICC.

The Federal Housing Authority FHA, under the leadership of Senator Gbenga Bareehu Ashafa will be celebrating it's golden jubilee spanned for two days in the nation's city.

The program scheduled to hold at the International Conference Center ICC will kick start from Thursday 23rd to Friday 24th of November, 2023 .

According to the program of event released on Tuesday in a statement by the Head of Public Relations, Kenneth Chigelu said the Key Note Address will be presented by the former Lagos state Governor, and immediate past Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola , SAN ,CON with a title : "The Future of Housing In Nigeria, & 50 Years of FHA , A Call to Action for Political Leaders and Policy Makers for Decent and Affordable Housing ".

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, is expected to be the special guest of honor at the occasion, along with the Chairman , Senate Committee on Housing and Habitat, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Aminu Balele, his House of Representatives counterpart will grace the occasion.

Other special guests included Senator Solomon Olamikekan, Adeola , Chairman Senate Committee on Appropriations, a House of Representatives Member, Hon (Arc) Salman Idris and (Arc) Lucy Uzodinma, Head of Department/Director, Public Building.

A gala, dinner and award night is expected to come up on the first day on Thursday, where past and present leaders of the agency, members of staffs and management will be honored at the occasion

For the second day running of the event on Friday , The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Mallam Mamuda Mamman, Senator Osita Izunaso, Chairman , House Committee on Capital Market and Dr Mathew Nwogu his counterpart in the House of Representatives will be the special guests for the event.

Perspectives from the Managing Director, Chief Executive officer CEO Federal Housing Authority FHA, Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Rt Honorable Abike Dabiri, MD NIDCOM, Mr Hamman Madu, MD/CEO FMBN, Mr Kehinde Ogundimu, MD/CEO NMRC, Mr Abdul Muktar, MD/CEO, FHFL, Mr Chibuike D. Nwaegerue, Director, (OFID), CBN and Mr Hayatudeen Awwal MD. FHAMB will be presented at the event.

Other key presentation for the occasion included four other lead papers, moderators and panelists, speakers and experts of high repute in the Housing industry will make presentation for the two days occasion.

The lead papers included, "Revolutionizing the Housing Sector, Practical Experiences from other Climes" to be presented by Mr Nehemiah Mcchendu, Kyandu, Former MD, Tanzanian Housing Corporation to be moderated by Mr Femi Adewole, Former MD, Family Homes Fund and Shelter Afrique.

The panelists and speakers will dwell on the Rwandan Experience, The Kenyan Experience and AUHF Experience.

Another lead paper with the topic , Building A Strong Financial Model for Sustainable Housing Model In Nigeria " by Mr Thierna-Habib Hann, Managing Director/ CEO , Shelter Afrique to be moderated by Mr Emmanuel Akinwumi, former Head of Private Sector, African Development Bank AFDB.

The panelists and speakers topic will be on "Assessing Multi -Lateral Funding for Affordable Housing"  , "Public Sector Funding for Housing Development Agencies: Which Way Forward" and  "Sustainable Funding Strategy for Affordable Housing; An Aggregate of Off-Shore &On-Shore Funding Models".

Professor Charles Inyangete, Pioneer MD/CEO, NMRC will moderate and present a paper titled ,  "Affordable Housing Delivery and Mortgage Sector Development; The Collaborative Roles of Government Agencies", while Gen. Tunde Reis (Rtd), Chairman, First World Communities Ltd will dwell on "FHA@50 and Nigerian Housing Sector: Which Way Forward" to be moderated by Rev. (Surv) Chime Ugochukwu, Group MD, Copen Group , with panelists and speakers  , "The Role of FHA in Housing the No, Low and Medium Income Earners", Access to Primary and Secondary Mortgage Facilities: A Critical Issue, Integrating Customs and Tradition in Contemporary Housing Designs in a Muti- Cultural Nigeria for Affordable Housing " and Issues In Regulating the Housing Sector".