The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Stars of outgoing 9th National Assembly

    Stars of outgoing 9th National Assembly

    By Olufemi Salako

    The 9th National Assembly  will in a few weeks give way to the 10th assembly, which will see the birth of a new legislative dispensation which is expected to consolidate on the input of the Tinubu-led presidency, which is built on the theme: Renewed hope.

    While we await this new political cum legislative dispensation, we must pause to appreciate the contributions of the 9th Assembly towards our national growth and development. The 9th National Assembly in Nigeria made remarkable progress in its legislative functions, providing critical oversight, promoting inclusivity and diversity, and initiating projects aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

    In terms of representation, the 9th Assembly has made significant progress in promoting gender equality and diversity in politics. The number of women in the Assembly has increased, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, has been at the forefront of this push for inclusivity in the political space.

    While we celebrate these highly significant contributions, it’s important to acknowledge the lawmakers in the Red and Green Chamber who have made these possible. Starting with the outgoing Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan, asides from leading the Red Chamber admirably well, Lawan was instrumental in pushing forth for the enactment of various bills into laws which no doubt contributed to the growth and development of Nigeria.

    This can also be said of his counterpart in the Green Chamber, Femi Gbajabiamila, the astute politician and administrator who has shown great brilliance and class in leading the lower house. He played a key role in leading the house in passing important legislation such as the Petroleum Industry Bill, Police Reform Bill, and the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020. Also, his role in the emergence of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as the president-elect will always be remembered and highly commended by the majority.

    Also, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District. He has been an active participant in the legislative activities of the assembly, serving as the Chief Whip of the Senate. He has also sponsored several bills and motions aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians. Some of his notable contributions include sponsoring the bill for the establishment of the National Food Reserve Agency and calling for the establishment of more industries to create jobs and boost the economy.

    Also, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, representing Akoko Northeast/ Northwest Federal Constituency, is another brilliant lawmaker whose contributions to the Green Chamber cannot be undermined. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is the Chairman of the House Committee on NDDC and has been instrumental in investigating the alleged financial mismanagement in the commission. His constituent projects have continued to earn him both international and local accolades.

    Another Lawmaker is Ade Adeogun, from Akoko Southeast/Akoko Southwest constituency, he is a member of several committees including the House Committee on Power, Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), and National Security and Intelligence. He was actively involved in the oversight functions of these committees and has advocated for the provision of adequate infrastructure, security, and social amenities for his constituents.

    Senator Tolu Odebiyi, from Ogun West Senatorial District, is another brilliant senator who made his mark, asides his legislative duties which were excellently done, the Tolu Odebiyi Foundation helped in no small measure members of his community positively well. Also, Senator Muhammed Sani Musa, CON, representing Nigereast brought to the 9th Assembly values which have earned him the respect of his colleagues and admiration of the people.

    He sponsored over 15 impacting bills, notable among them are; Protection from Internet Falsehood and Manipulation Bill, 2019 (SB. 132), Teaching Hospital Development Tax Fund (Est, etc) Bill, 2019 (SB 136), Northcentral Development Commission (Est, etc) Bill, 2019 (SB 173), Rape and Insurgency Victims Stigmatisation (Prohibition) Bill, 2019 (SB 243), Loan Recovery (Regulations) Bill, 2020 (SB 492), Nigeria Wards Development Fund Bill, 2020 (SB. 570), Critical Infrastructure Protection Bill, 2021 (SB. 610), many others.

    Another notable name is Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, a lawmaker representing Ileoluji Okeigbo/Odigbo at the Green Chamber, who was responsible for sponsoring several bills which significantly contributed to the growth and development of his constituents. He was responsible for sponsoring the bill on the creation of a National Youth Service Trust Fund. The bill, sponsored by Mayowa Akinfolarin seeks to compel all organised private entities to contribute one per cent of their net profit to the fund. In addition, 0.2 per cent of total revenue accruing to the federation account will fund the entity.

    Senator Opeymi Bamidele from Ekiti Central Senatorial district is another lawmaker, who has through his legislative contributions carved a niche for himself in the lexicon of success and social transformation, thanks to his valuable contributions to his senatorial district, his people have continued to enjoy the dividends of democracy.

    Also, Senator Abba Moro from Benue South is another lawmaker who has earned public accolades, he sponsored 12, moved 11 motions and submitted five petitions in less than four years, with visible representa­tion on the floor of the Senate. Another worthy member of the Red Chamber is Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, who represented Lagos West Senatorial District, records have it that he has used his tenure at the red chamber to pursue programmes and policies that will enhance the fortunes of the senatorial district. Adeola was reputed to have been instrumental in the enactment of the law that strengthened the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, legislation that catapulted the revenue of the state from N5 billion monthly to over N20 billion.

    Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero is another senator with a compelling track record in the red chamber, the former governor of Kebbi State to the admiration of the majority replicated the successes recorded by him in the 9th assembly among his senatorial district.

    We must also recognise the contributions of Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, representing Sokoto North, the much respected political giant is one of the most outstanding lawmakers who have continued to contribute to the nation’s development through legislative policies as well as their community development projects across their senatorial district. He was one of the few figures whom the red chamber could always look up to for guidance given his wealth of experience.

    Senator Ibrahim Yahaya Oloriegbe is another figure in the 9th assembly whose influence cannot be undermined, his contributions to polity and national development speak loud of his honourable intention for Nigeria, Senator Elijah Abbo was another prominent lawmaker who has been regarded as the youngest senator in the house, to the benefit of the Nigerian people and his constituents, the proactive lawmaker has continued to give his voice to push for policies which has continued to strengthen our democracy, same can also be said of Senator Barau Jibril, from Kano North, the political heavyweight is among the very few senators with a proven track record of serving remarkably and exceptionally in running the Senate businesses and chairing the appropriation committee that drives the success of the APC government.

    We cannot forget in a hurry the valuable contributions of the first lady in waiting, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu who served in the 9th assembly representing Lagos Central, while she was a voice for women’s advocacy in the house, she was also instrumental in advancing policies which has in no small measures strengthened our democracy.   

    Another influential and high-ranking lawmaker in the Green Chamber is, Abass Tajudeen, representing Zaria constituency, Kaduna, he has been adjudged as the lawmaker who sponsored the highest bill in the house. He has distinguished himself as the only federal lawmaker from the Northwest who has thus far sponsored unprecedented 74 bills.

    Babajimi Benson from Ikorodu federal constituency, is another lawmaker with an impressive portfolio in the 9th assembly, his perchance for grassroots development has seen him attracts various community development projects for his people. Among the bills he has passed include the bill for an Act to provide special financial support, training and modern security equipment for the revamping of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    Deserving a spot on this list is Aliyu Betara, representing Biu, Bayo, Kwaya Kusara and Shani Federal Constituency, He has been rated as one of the most successful members of the 9th Assembly in terms of parliamentary activities, and this success story resonated with his immediate federal constituency where his effective representation at the Green Chamber of the National Assembly is felt directly.

    Leke Abejide representing Yagba East/West/Mopamuro constituency, Kogi State, is another notable mention, since his assumption into office in 2019, he has sponsored several bills and facilitated empowerment projects which have covered over 3000 constituents, among other infrastructural projects which have earned him public accolades and commendation. Also, Mohammed Umar Bago representing Chanchaga Federal Constituency, the now governor-elect of Niger State was a formidable figure in the house, he was known to be fearless and brilliant in his dealing, and no doubt he moved on to become the choice of his people as the governor in Niger State.

    Timilehin Adelegbe, representing Owo/Ose Federal Constituency, has sponsored bills and moved motions that have in no mean measure substantially improved the greater number of the people in his federal constituency. He has equally promoted the economic well-being and social status of his constituents, while he has also attracted developmental projects to Owo/Ose Federal Constituency.

    Also, Senator Biodun Olujimi is another senator from Ekiti Central constituency who’s made highly remarkable strides in the red chamber, despite being a lady, she showed much courage to thrive among her contemporaries, while she also delivered beautifully well for her people. The same can be said of Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District. He is one of the few who are effective and has mastered what eludes so much of the upper chamber. He has a reputation on both sides of the aisle for being genuine, go-getter, charismatic and generous. Sen. Sani is a parliamentarian and moderate type, who has always provided balance and a reasoned voice in the chamber.

    It is also important to acknowledge the immense contributions of Senator Ajayi Borrofice who represents Ondo North Senatorial District in the National Assembly. A review of Borrofice’s record of political leadership spanning over a decade is, in part, a reminder of how much sacrifice and risk he has taken in his career to rise to his present height.

    Another honourable mention is  Aliyu Magaji Dau from Buji/Birnin Kudu, with an excellent track record in the 9th assembly, his projects across the 248 polling units in his constituency all bears marks of his quality representation, and his contributions on the floor of the house have continued to earn him the praise of the majority. Alhassan Ado Doguwa is another well important lawmaker in the house, the highly influential figure, who served as the majority leader will always be remembered and respected for his exemplary leadership qualities and courage, which helped him stand out in the house, just like others mentioned, his contributions were highly important in bringing out the beauty of our democratic institution as well as the legacies of the 9th Assembly.

    •Salako, a public commentator, wrote from Lagos

  • How to prevent building collapse, by experts

    How to prevent building collapse, by experts

    A pressure Group, Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG), has canvassed what it called ‘evangelism against building collapse’ to stir the conscience of those who dominate the housing sector.

    In a statement, its National President, Sulaimon Yusuf, and the Honorary General Secretary, Adenike Ayanda, recognised the booming real estate and housing market that has become an alternative business for investors following the collapse of the manufacturing sector in Nigeria.

    They lamented that business people, who possess no training in building construction, have flooded the construction sphere with little respect for professionalism and due process.

    The statement read: “When there are no eligibility criteria, requirements or qualifications that restrict admission into a sensitive and critical sector, the consequence will endanger the much-cherished live and property. And in ‘all-comers affair’, where professional advice is hardly adhered to as profiteering is elevated above safety, compromise becomes the order of the day.

    ”This abnormal and unacceptable situation became a concern to those of us in the built environment professional services.Town planners, (Land) surveyors, architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, builders, and estate surveyors and valuers came together to form a coalition named Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) in 2011. Our membership is huge and well-spread across different localities and reticulated into various cell formations.

    “The ubiquitousness of our members was to augment the low capacity of the government staff at monitoring the massive expanse of developed and rapidly-developing built environment. The huge BCPG network enabled information on substandard building construction works and distressed buildings get to the notice of the relevant government staff. The system was result-oriented, effective, and still subsisted in a unity of purpose.’’

    The group stated that the news of incessant building collapse causes an incalculable damage to the reputation of the built environment professional as he is regarded as inferior in the eyes of their foreign counterparts.

     According to them, professionals are paying high reputational price because of the perceived ills of the sector. They, therefore, urged the government to address the menace and restore sanity in the sector.

    “As professionals, we have pledged to continue to expend our personal resources to fight the causes of building collapse. Collectively, we put in 12 years of relentless and consistent service to humanity. Despite series of disappointment and discouragement, we cannot afford to give up. There is no man – made problem that defies solution,” it stated.

    “Ninety per cent of developers do not belong to our professional associations and quite a number of them are very influential.The culture of inducement being promoted by many developers has encouraged compromise in the circles of government officials, the size of developers has become enormous, thereby overwhelming the government,“ they said.

    They appealed to developers to consider the risk involved in building construction more than the gains by abiding by the building regulations and engaging the appropriate professionals in the pre-construction, construction and post-construction stages of building.

    It advised developers embarking on multi-storey building construction to desist from direct labour methods and engage the services of reputable construction companies. 

    According to them, it is a clever way of mortgaging risks and saving costs at the expense of human lives, which could result in huge financial losses, chorusing the ‘penny wise pound foolish’ step.

    Furthermore, they urged the government to lessen the burden on developers by reducing the high development fees and taxation, adding that expensive preliminary costs incurred in building plan approvals, among others, tempt developers to cut corners.

    “Investment in the housing sector is a pertinent developmental contribution that provides appreciable returns. However, investment in buildings that will not stand the test of time, endangering the life of occupants is an investment in futility. Every developer should endeavour to deliver a building with the heart and intention of occupying it himself.’’

    They advised that any developer that is in doubt of the stability or quality of building(s) constructed by him or her should have the courage to contact a professional for remedy as keeping quiet might spell disaster for many.

    “It is pertinent to seize this opportunity to remind those handling building projects for their relations and friends in the diaspora to bear in mind that God has a way of rewarding sincere people that do not engage in the diversion of project fund to the detriment of building production quality. Morality and ethics can help raise the bar for our entire building industry. Those who invest rightly are considered wise developers. May the developers in this clime become wise and lessen the fears of incessant building collapse,” they added.

  • Waterfront homes a sign of affluence, good taste

    Waterfront homes a sign of affluence, good taste

    Water or beach front houses hold a lot of attraction for many people, especially the rich. What could be better than being greeted by the sea every morning. In Nigeria, waterfronts inhabit debris and garbage, reducing the glamour of homes there. OKWY IROEGBU-CHIKEZIE writes that the market for waterfront homes is huge, canvassing the need for the government to encourage developers by ensuring that waterfronts are maintained regularly and devoid of filth. Experts say the health benefits are unrivalled and will spike developments in waterfronts.

    In some Nigerian cities like Lagos, Warri and Port Harcourt, we have some priced waterfront real estates. Initially, it was wrongly believed that only the whites lived in such areas. 

      Before the movement of the capital from Lagos to Abuja, almost all the embassies were located in and around Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island facing the Bar Beach or the old Ikoyi facing the Atlantic Ocean. But lately, deep-pocketed homeowners are spending enormous sums to have a share of the waterfronts.

    Some Nigerians, who spoke to The Nation and didn’t want their names on print, said the government did not seem to understand the  need to clean up the waterfronts and make living on sea or beach shores exciting.

    Initially, waterfront homes were sought after by the wealthy and commanded high value in terms of investment and rental income. Now, many individuals have access to them as allocation of the waterfront is done indiscrimately by officials Most waterfront land are gazetted. Some waterfronts on Banana Island and in Osborne Foreshore Estate II in Lagos have disappeared due to such out-of-plan allocations.

    There is no gainsaying that our beaches or waterfronts leave much to be desired,  what with its nauseating look as a result of filth and debris washed from the sea. Thankfully, some non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have taken it upon themselves to clean the beaches and waterfronts to give landlords a fresh breath of life.

    Outside the shores of Nigeria, while the sights and serenity are reasons to purchase a luxurious waterfront property, there are some reasons you might consider investing, too.

    It’s hard to be stressed out when so much natural beauty surrounds you. It has also been scientifically proven that going outside improves memory. There are some surprising health benefits to waterfront living, including relief from hypertension and improved immune system.

    Waterfront properties tend to be larger and more spaced out than homes in a subdivision. That means you’ll have more privacy, with nature serving as a boundary between homes and creating a sense of exclusivity.

    One of the most significant advantages of living in a luxury waterfront community is the lack of urban congestion and noise pollution. Since there is less traffic and more space between houses, you’re less likely to hear car horns and music blaring at late hours of the night. In fact, most noises will probably come from the water and natural wildlife

    Waterfront properties are in demand. Investment in them is worthwhile. Even if you later decide to relocate, the odds are that your home will sell quickly and for a top price.

    If you like birds or nature-watching, or photography, your backyard will become a lush playground teeming with diverse flora and fauna. You’ll probably get to see fish, waterfowl, and other critters that are a rare sight for those who don’t live near the water.

    For former National Secretary, Nigeria Institution of Estate  Surveyors & Valuers (NIESV), Offiong Samuel Ukpong, clients insisting on or asking for waterfront homes are not common, but maybe in future because of the filthiness of some of them, especially those in Lagos.

    He regretted that the government and her agencies with the mandate to keep our sea shores neat and alluring are not awake to their responsibilities as heaps of refuse that dot our major roads or markets find their way into the ocean. This, therefore, means that since beach fronts are usually unsightly, most wealthy and men of affluence prefer living far from them.

    On the health benefits of beach front homes, Ukpong, a lawyer, said it has a lot as people see such abode as having healthy properties as they good for insightful thinking, quietude, and more importantly one is surrounded by nature.

    He said it cost more than the buildings near the seafronts, citing Bourdillon and other areas in Lekki and old Ikoyi.

    Immediate past Chairman of the Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors & Valuers, Lagos State branch, Dotun Bamigbola, said waterfront houses are attractive and command about the highest value in their neighbourhood.

    He also stated that many wellness and health facilities have their offices on waterfront properties because of the healthy environment and the serenity such areas offer. 

    He said: “I may not be able to speak authoritatively about health benefits of waterfront and beach front houses but as an estate surveyor. l am aware that it commands higher value because of its accompaniment.Waterfront properties cost more than other comparative properties in most cases.’’

  • Pay rise coming for health workers, lecturers, others

    Pay rise coming for health workers, lecturers, others

    • Funding captured in this year’s budget, says Fed Govt •President-elect promises living wage

    Other categories of federal workers, including health workers and lecturers, will soon enjoy a pay rise like their counterparts – core civil servants, who are on Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure (CONPSS).

    Minister of Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige, said yesterday during the May Day rally in Abuja that funds for the planned increase in wages have been captured in this year’s budget.

    Core civil servants are already enjoying 40 per cent peculiar allowances approved for them by Federal Government with effect from January.

    President-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu promised a better deal for all workers under his administration, pledging that they will enjoy a living wage for a decent life.

    Ngige said: “Since the introduction of CONPSS on January 1, 2007, it has not been reviewed by any of the past administrations but for the consequential minimum wage adjustment of 2019 for all wage structures under this government in 2019.

    “However, in line with the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerian workers, the Federal Government recently worked out the introduction of a 40 per cent peculiar allowance into the remuneration and emoluments of core federal civil servants and other public servants on the CONPSS to help cushion the effects of inflation and other costs of doing their work as they are not on any special allowances.

    “This demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare and conditions of service even without any industrial action but a fallout of social dialogue.”

    Ngige appealed to Labour to ensure industrial peace and harmony remained your watchwords.

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) asked for an extension of the retirement age for civil servants from 60 to 65 years and or 40 years of service.

    They also urged the Federal Government to expand and strengthen the existing social security framework.

    Labour insisted that workers and the masses deserve an equitable share of the nation’s resources.

    President Muhammadu Buhari said aside from approving the new minimum wage, his administration took steps to protect workers from the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    He urged the incoming Tinubu Administration to do better.

    President Buhari was represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Boss Mustapha.

    The International Labour Organisation (ILO) called on governments to prioritise social justice.

    Across the states, outgoing governors highlighted their efforts to improve the lot of workers. Also, their soon-to-be successors pledged better days ahead.

    In Abuja, the May Day rally was held at the Eagle Square.

    The theme of this year’s International Workers Day is ‘Workers Rights and Socio-Economic Justice’.

    Labour lists demands 

    In a joint address, Presidents of the NLC, Joe Ajaero and TUC, Festus Osifo urged the Federal Government to strengthen the social security net to protect workers.

    They noted that if the government was serious about increasing productivity and making progress, it must ensure that the rights and privileges of workers are not only protected but are granted unfettered access to socioeconomic justice.

    The labour leaders said: “It is important that we understand that no society can make progress by excluding its major stakeholders – the workers and masses – from having an equitable share of the nation’s resources.

    “If we are serious about increasing productivity and making progress as a nation, then, we must seek ways of ensuring that the rights and privileges of workers are not only protected but that they are granted unfettered access to socioeconomic justice.

    “To this end, we suggest deliberate actions by the government to expand and strengthen the nation’s existing Social Security framework.

    “The Social Investment Programme (SIP) ought to be given legal backing by speeding up the legislative processes towards codifying it in our laws. This will deepen engagement in those areas and provide stronger backing to our quest for socioeconomic justice to all Nigerians.”

    Labour also urged the Federal Government to begin the process of ratifying Convention 102 of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on social protection.

    This, it said, is central to the actualisation of social justice and inclusiveness. It provides appropriate guarantees for workers’ rights to survival during and after work life and also guarantees access to a decent life for many Nigerians.

    “It is important that Nigerian leaders understand that without guaranteeing the rights of workers, without allowing workers to win, Nigerians and Nigeria will not win.

    “We are Nigerians; when we win, our nation wins and makes sustainable progress. It is the duty of the government to provide the right environment for this to happen.

    “Our nation must lead with job-led growth. When jobs grow, income increases and the economy revved higher, but we need to protect those that work in these jobs.

    “To protect them, we must ensure that the right legal environment is created and frameworks for compliance with laws are established.”

     NLC seeks review of retirement age

    NLC called for a review of civil servants’ retirement age to 65.

    Ajaero said the extension of years of service should go around, as it had been done in other sectors of the public service.

    “Only a few other establishments, including the core civil service, are now left out.

    “We are, therefore, demanding that the age of retirement and length of service in the entire public service, including the civil service, be reviewed upward to 65 years of age and 40 years of service,” he said.

    Civil servants retire at 60 or after serving for 35 years.

    Ajaero said the union had, over the years, demanded salary review but had yet to receive Federal Government’s attention.

    President-elect promises living wage

    Tinubu assured workers of a better deal under his administration.

    He also promised to be a dependable ally of the nation’s workforce.

    In a solidarity message he personally signed, he said: “I shall have the honour and privilege to lead from May 29. Workers will have more than a minimum wage. You will have a living wage to have a decent life and provide for your family.

    “In me, you will find a dependable ally and co-labourer in the fight for social and economic justice for all Nigerians, including all the working people.

    “Your fight will be my fight because I will always fight for you. My plans for better welfare and working conditions are spelt out in my Renewed Hope Agenda for A Better Nigeria. It is a covenant born of conviction and one I am prepared to keep.”

    Tinubu stressed that the days ahead will demand better understanding and cooperation from all sides.

    “Leadership will require that we take tough and hard decisions so that our people and all Nigerian workers can live more abundantly,” he said.

    The President-elect solicited workers’ support, urging them to join hands with his administration in waging a must-win war against poverty, ignorance, disease, disunity, ethnic and religious hate and all negative forces that contend against the stability and prosperity of the country.

    Acknowledging the invaluable roles workers have played in nation-building, Tinubu said: “I join the rest of the world and all compatriots to celebrate Nigerian workers on this year’s International Workers’ Day.

    “Today is a special day in most parts of the world, a day to salute and honour the working people whose hard work and sweat continue to oil the wheel of human progress and advancement.”

    Buhari: we saved small businesses during COVID 19

    President Buhari highlighted his administration’s pro-Labour policies, including bailing out small businesses affected by the pandemic.

    He said: “Social protection mechanisms both institutionalised and on ad hoc basis were fashioned out, strengthened and implemented at both the national and sub-national levels to cushion the adverse effects of the pandemic, and additionally, bail-out funds were used to aid some small scale businesses to survive.”

    He urged the incoming administration to continue to respect workers’ rights, create job opportunities and promote dialogue for consensus building and sound national industrial relations.

    He said: “The government affirms the need for the enthronement of decent work which sums up the aspiration that all people have for their working lives; for work that is productive, delivers a fair income with security and social protection, safeguards basic rights, offers equality of opportunity and treatment, prospects for personal development and the chance for recognition and to have your voice heard.

    “These elements of decent work concur with our commitment to reduce poverty and forge a path to achieving equitable, inclusive and sustainable development, and ultimately peace and security in communities.

    “Workers’ rights coupled with socio-economic justice make a happy workplace. We, therefore, agree that a fair economic structure targeted at creating opportunities for all to succeed irrespective of sex, race/ethnicity, age, disability, creed, religion, etc. is sine qua non for progress and development.

    “I encourage the incoming administration to continue to respect workers’ rights imbued with socio-economic development and driven by the four pillars of the decent work agent to promote jobs and enterprises, guaranteeing rights at work, extending social protection, and promoting social dialogue for consensus building and maintaining a Sound National Industrial Relations System.”

    Workers deserve to be happy, says Obi

    Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi, who made an appearance at the rally, said the government must build a country where workers are happy, protected and their welfare guaranteed.

    He said: “We want a country where workers will stay and they are happy, where their welfare will be protected and they are productive.”

    SSANU decries withheld salaries

    President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Mohammed Ibrahim, urged the Federal Government to pay four months’ salaries of its members withheld during the last strike.

    Ibrahim, who is NLC’s National Internal Auditor, said: “Despite the hostile environment in which we operate, we remain undeterred in our quest to contribute to the building of a great country.

    “Our members have continued to report for duty in the most security-challenging parts of Nigeria. It’s a pity that the Federal Government has remained adamant in the payment of withheld four months’ salaries during the nationwide strike in 2022.

    “Comrades, you are all aware that SSANU complied with all industrial legal protocols before embarking on strike when the government reneged on its part of the bargain. We have made every effort for the government to see the reason why we should be paid our rightful due all to no avail.

    “We are once again calling on the government to urgently pay the withheld salaries without further delay. The insensitivity of the government to the plight of workers is provocative and unbearable.”

    He said SSANU would declare a strike if the government fails to implement the 40 per cent pay rise for members.

    He also said the Federal Government was yet to pay the N50 billion Earned Allowances promised to the union last year.

    ILO: time to proritise social justice 

    The ILO called on governments to prioritise social justice.

    Its Director-General, Mr Gilbert Houngbo, said in a statement: “The promises of renewal made during the pandemic, of ‘building back better’, have so far not been delivered for the great majority of workers worldwide.

    “Globally, real wages have fallen, poverty is rising, and inequality seems more entrenched than ever.

    “Enterprises have been hard-hit. Many could not cope with the cumulative effects of recent unexpected events. Small and micro-enterprises were particularly affected, and many have ceased operations…

    “How do we get there? First and foremost, our policies and actions must be human-centred.”

    According to Houngbo, this means focusing on equality, poverty alleviation and core social protection.

  • 1,350 more Nigerians leave Khartoum

    1,350 more Nigerians leave Khartoum

    • 27 buses head for Port Sudan

    Another batch of 1,350 Nigerians on Sunday left the war-torn Sudanese capital, Khartoum, for Port Sudan from where they will be airlifted back home.

    Port Sudan is a Sudanese city 825 kilometres from Khartoum, where planes can still land and take off despite the ongoing battle between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by two generals in a power struggle.

    The Port Sudan alternative was decided upon by the Federal Government because of the difficulties faced by the first batch of 637 Nigerians at the Sudanese border with Egypt.

    The first batch of evacuees is billed to fly back home from the Egyptian capital, Cairo.

    Chairperson of Nigerian in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, yesterday confirmed the departure of the second batch of Nigerians from Khartoum.

    After clearance, those at the border with Egypt will be airlifted to Nigeria from the Abu Simbel Airport by a Nigerian Air Force C-130 plane.

    The Egyptian authorities have finally agreed to open the border for Nigerians.

    Nigerian Ambassador in Egypt, Nuru Rimi, confirmed that approval had been granted.

    He said: “Approval to be granted for the evacuation of Nigerians through Egypt, with stringent conditions and guidelines. 

    “These include details and schedule of the aircraft; and strong pledge that once our citizens depart the border, they will be conveyed directly to the designated airport.

    “Others are a comprehensive list of the evacuees, with passport numbers; valid travel documents, presence of government officials at the points of embarkation and standby buses that will immediately convey them to the airport.”

    Mrs Dabiri-Erewa told The Nation that there were long delays because the drivers of the 27 buses refused to move.

    She said they demanded full payment, but the Federal Government has resolved the issues.

    Some of the buses departed Khartoum but stopped halfway due to non-payment. 

    After the outstanding fees were settled, the buses could not proceed given the time and need to ensure safety.

    One of the buses caught fire.

    One of its tires was said to have exploded, causing a fire, but all the passengers escaped unhurt.

    It was learnt that 40 out of the 50 passengers were later distributed to the other buses, while the remaining passengers spent the night where the incident happened alongside the driver.

    UN food agency raises alarm 

    Cindy McCain, the head of the World Food Programme (WFP), said the UN food agency would lift a suspension of its aid mission in Sudan as the crisis in the country worsens amid ongoing violence.

    McCain on Monday said that the agency would “immediately” lift a suspension of its programmes that it put in place following the death of three employees “as the crisis in #Sudan pushes millions into hunger.”

    “WFP is rapidly resuming our programs to provide the life-saving assistance that many so desperately need right now,” McCain tweeted.

    The UN agency has been warning that the ongoing fighting in Sudan could plunge the entire region of East Africa into a humanitarian crisis.

    Sudan’s de facto president Abdel Fattah al-Burhan has been fighting his deputy Mohammed Hamdan Daglo with the help of the military since April 15. Daglo is the leader of the influential paramilitary group RSF

    The two generals took over the leadership of the country of about 46 million through two military coups in 2019 and 2021.

    Clashes continued over the weekend despite the calling of a 72-hour ceasefire on Thursday, with both sides accusing the other of violating the agreement.

    Hundreds of people have been killed since the fighting began, including three employees of WFP.

    Sudan’s warring generals have agreed to send representatives for negotiations, potentially in Saudi Arabia, a top UN official in the country, Volker Perthes, was quoted as saying.

    This is as the two sides clashed in the capital despite another three-day extension of a fragile cease-fire.

    If the talks come together, they would initially focus on establishing a “stable and reliable” cease-fire monitored by national and international observers, Perthes said.

    Amidst very imperfect and partial ceasefires, Port Sudan is overwhelmed by people fleeing Khartoum and other places.

    Many people are now sleeping rough on the streets as they wait for a way out. 

    Local hotels are swamped by people with passports from the world over, along with emergency consular services hastily established by embassies that have evacuated most of their staff from the capital.

    Many fear there is no way out. Port Sudan is packed with people who have less lucky passports, including Yemenis, Syrians and Sudanese.

    Some 3,000 Yemenis, mainly students, have been stuck for weeks in the port city.

  • Kano emirates have come to stay, Ganduje replies Kwankwaso

    Kano emirates have come to stay, Ganduje replies Kwankwaso

    By Fanel Ihyongo, Taraba

    Outgoing Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje and his successor-in-waiting Abba Yusuf may be set for a clash over the new emirates created by the state government.

    The governor insisted yesterday that the four new emirates created by his administration have come to stay.

    He spoke during the Workers’ Day anniversary at Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano.

    His position came few days after the leader of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), Rabiu Kwankwaso, vowed that the incoming administration would review the balkanisation of the Kano emirate.

    Ganduje, whose government split the Kano emirates into five and dethroned the then Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi, described the four new emirates as symbols of unity, progress and the well-being of the people.

    He argued that the emirates were created to honour the people of the regions and recover the reputation of the traditional institutions.

    “Any of you that visits the headquarters of these new emirates will believe me that we have brought development to these places. We created them to honor the people of these regions,” Ganduje said.

    He further assured the people of Kano that the emirates were permanent and had come to stay, adding that anyone who attempts to destroy them will not be brought to Kano State by God Almighty.

    “Even if we are not in government, we are praying and we will keep praying for God to protect these emirates from all evils. I thank you all,” he said.

  • Heirs General Insurance gets new ceo

    Heirs General Insurance gets new ceo

    Heirs Insurance companies- Heirs General Insurance Limited (formerly Heirs Insurance Limited), and Heirs Life Assurance (HLA) – have announced appointments to their senior leadership positions.

    The company also changed Heirs Insurance Limited to Heirs General Insurance (HGI) in major restructuring  move.

    The companies founded in 2021, have quickly established themselves as leading players in the Nigerian market, offering customer friendly, innovative products and services that simplify insurance and democratise access.

    Both companies typify Heirs Holdings’ trademark strategy of shaking up a sector, delivering value to customers and championing financial inclusion.

    Heirs General Insurance announced the appointment of Wole Fayemi to the role of MD/CEO effective today.

    Fayemi has over two decades of experience in the Nigerian insurance industry. Prior to joining HGI, he served as Executive Director, Technical, Old Mutual General Insurance, where he led the operations team to achieve top-line growth, re-organised the structural re-alignment of processes for higher efficiency, and drove the strategic direction of the operations team.

    Commenting on the new appointment, Fayemi said: “It is a privilege to take on this position.  I have always been fascinated by the business track record of the Heirs Holdings Group and the significant impact Heirs General Insurance is making in the industry.  I look forward to taking on this mantle of leadership and steering the company towards its next milestones”.

    The Chairman of Heirs Holdings – parent company of Heirs General Insurance and Heirs Life Tony O. Elumelu, said: “Wole’s experience and vision for the insurance industry align with HGI’s mission. I have great confidence that he is the right leader for Heirs General Insurance, for the next phase of its business growth. His deep knowledge in the insurance industry and excellent business development skills will play an important role in the future of the company – driving business expansion and establishing the company as a 21st century insurer.”

    The board of directors of Heirs Life Assurance also announced the promotion of Tosin Bayo-Yusuf to the position of Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer (ED/COO). Tosin’s appointment follows the retirement of Wasiu Amao, the former Executive Director, Technical. 

    Tosin Bayo-Yusuf has a cumulative 17 years of work experience in the Nigerian Insurance industry. She joined Heirs Life in 2021 and has held several leadership positions as the Head, Individual Life Operations, and most recently, as the Head of Bancassurance, where she championed the bancassurance partnership with United Bank for Africa.  She will support Heirs Life MD/CEO, Niyi Onifade, in driving the operations of the company.

  • Ngige counters Obaseki over no-cash-to-pay salary claim

    Ngige counters Obaseki over no-cash-to-pay salary claim

    Labour Minister, Chris Ngige, has disagreed with Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, over the latter’s warning that states and the Federal Governments may not be able to pay salaries beyond next month.

    Obaseki, who spoke yesterday during the Workers’ Day at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, said the two tiers of government will no longer be able to pay salaries without the removal of petrol subsidy.

    The other option, according to him, would be for the Federal Government to print money.

    The Federal Government has set a June 30 day to end the subsidy payment regime on petrol for which it voted N3 trillion in the 2023 Appropriation Act.

    Obaseki urged workers to champion the cause for the removal of fuel subsidy.

    But Ngige dismissed the governor’s warning as an ‘alarm’.

    He also assured the workers that the Federal Government has the capacity to meet the proposed pay rise.

    The minister, who spoke on national television, said the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration had made adequate provision for the workers.

    Besides, he said the incoming government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has what it takes to follow through on the agreement.

    He said: “Obaseki’s statement is not correct because payment of salaries and the increases we are talking about have been budgeted for.

    “The doctors have completed their negotiation under the auspices of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) and they have come to us and we have transmitted it to the authority concerned. We have done the same thing for the nurses and others in the health sector.

    “We have done the same thing for lecturers who went on strike for eight months last year and other workers in the university system and the polytechnic. Already, N350 billion has been captured in the appropriation budget of 2023.”

    On whether the government has enough money to pay salaries from June this year, the minister said: “I am neither the Central Bank governor nor am I the Minister of Finance. These two manage Nigeria’s economy.

    “I don’t know where Governor Obaseki has his information from. I would advise him as a governor to face his state and not talk about the Federal Government.

    “Let him face his state and ensure that the weight of the salary increase is not borne by the workers alone. I don’t know what he is talking about and I don’t live in Edo state.

    “For me as Labour manager of the country, President Muhammadu Buhari has made adequate provision for payment of salaries.

    “And I am sure that the incoming government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu will tow the same line. He is a finance man, who managed Lagos finances very well.

    “When he was the governor of Lagos State, he even had extra for his workers in the judiciary.  So, I have no fear that the incoming government will deliver.”

    On why the government has not been able to crash the unemployment rate from 32 per cent, Ngige said: “The point here is that job creation is a cross-cutting thing. It is not only for the public sector to do.

    “Many people have a wrong notion that it is for the government to create jobs. That is not right. The private sector is huge in job creation.

    “If the economy is suffering several challenges, you will not have enough money in the system to ginger the system and create jobs.

    “It is a fact that foreign investment into the country has gone down.”

    Ngige, who noted that Nigerian workers were right in asking for more, however, said it was wrong for analysts to be equating minimum wage with dollars, adding that most of the consumables workers purchase were not gotten in dollarised markets.

    “The inflation challenge is all over the world and that has affected the cost of living in all areas of life. The cost of production world over is rising and Nigeria is not excluded from the global challenge.

    “Notwithstanding, that is not to say that Nigerian workers are right to ask for more.

    “The Nigerian government is also right under the consideration of the basic capacity to pay. That is the norm under the Labour Law.

    “That is why we do what is called collective bargaining, social dialogue during which you break the issues down and eventually arrive at an agreement known as Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) that binds everybody.

    “But, if in the course of the journey, it is found that the agreement is not implementable, everybody reconvenes again to renegotiate the CBA.

    “So, the Nigerian workers are right to ask for wage increases.  They are right to be asking for more wages that will improve their standard of living.

    “However, I don’t like the idea of looking at the naira vis a vis the dollar every time without situating the issue.  That is not right.

    “Some things are purchasable with naira and not purchasable with dollars.  If you talk about food items, water and some other things, these items are not sold in dollarised markets in Nigeria.”

    Speaking during the May Day anniversary christened: “Workers’ Rights and Socio-Economic Justice,” Obaseki promised that his administration would always ensure that the workers were fairly treated so that their take-home pay could take them home.

    He said: “It will be a miracle for the state and federal governments to pay salaries beyond June this year, without resorting to massively printing money or removing fuel subsidy. Either of these decisions will bring more hardship and pain to Nigerians, particularly the workers.

    “We must all make sure that the burden and pain of these measures, which must be taken, are not carried by workers alone. Workers must now rise and ensure that they champion any discussion on subsidy removal.

    “You must shift from the tradition of reacting when these policies have been made, but insist that you take charge and ensure full transparency and disclosure. If we are all undertaking a reform, then the benefits and pains that will come out of the reforms must be mutually shared by all Nigerians, not just the downtrodden.”

    Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers in the state, the governor said: “I am proud to say that Edo workers are currently the best paid in Nigeria. When we announced the increment of the minimum wage to N40,000 at this venue last year, I expected that the Federal Government and other state governments would follow suit immediately, but I am surprised that it has taken them one year already.

    “My promise to Edo workers here today (yesterday) is that the day the Federal Government is able to pay its new minimum wage and hand over a cheque to any federal worker, that day, we will match the Federal Government and do the same for Edo State’s workers.

    “As your governor, I will ensure that workers are fairly treated. So that your take-home pay can really take you home. Our government has kept faith with prompt and regular payment of staff salaries and retirees’ benefits in the state in the last six years.”

  • Govt officials suspended over alleged salary padding

    Govt officials suspended over alleged salary padding

    Some civil servants across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have been suspended for their alleged roles in salary “padding”, The Nation has learnt.

    Those affected are from the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) and an undisclosed institute.

    It was learnt that the suspended workers connived with some officials in the OAGF to pad their salaries by manipulating the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS).

    An assistant director (AD) deployed in the IPPIS unit of the RMAFC is undergoing probe over salary padding.

    The assistant director, who is desk officer in charge of staff’ salary was alleged to have connived with the OAGF personnel to pad the salaries of unspecified number of lower cadre workers.

    A source familiar with the incident said: “The AD in connivance with some staff members are deep in the salary padding racket. The alarm blew recently when a Level 7 officer, whose salary should be in the range of N60, 000 was paid over N400, 000 – the  salary package for a director.

    “What happened was that another colleague on same salary scale saw the pay slip of a female colleague with a  net pay of over N400, 000. Surprised, he tried to get details of the excess payment but was rebuffed.

    Following the cold attitude from his colleague, the aggrieved staff raised the alarm and a committee was set up to investigate the matter”.

    The salary padding racket The Nation learnt has been on for a while among a small clique of civil servants in different MDAs with the IPPIS office in the OAGF as the epicenter of the activity.

    Reacting to the development, the OAGF in a statement said it is “in receipt of enquiries over alleged “salary padding” on the IPPIS involving some unspecified MDA.

    The OAGF noted that “there is no evidence of salary padding” before the OAGF at this time; however, the office is aware of reported breach of the IPPIS third party payment protocol at an Institute outside Abuja.

    “The incident has since been reported to, and is being investigated by relevant anti-corruption, security and regulatory agencies.

    “In the meantime, a staff suspected to be connected with the breach has been suspended to allow for thorough investigation.”

    The OAGF added that all necessary steps are being taken to strengthen the controls around the IPPIS payment platform and an independent forensic audit of the entire payroll system is underway to ascertain if the reported breach is isolated or widespread”.

    Confirming the development, the RMAFC Chairman, Mohammed Bello Shehu, said the commission has identified some culprits and placed them on suspension pending the investigation of the incidence.

    He said some workers at the commission were found to have manipulated the IPPIS system to pad their salaries above what they were supposed to earn.

    “If the indicted officials are found culpable of the salary padding allegations, they will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for prosecution,” Bello Shehu said in a chat.

    The RMAFC boss, who declined to disclose the number or the identities of those involved, emphasised that the commission will not condone such blatant disregard of the civil service rules.

    “We will investigate to know how long this has been going on, how much has been illegally acquired and attempts made to recover the excess from those involved”, he said.

  • Nigeria’s Foreign reserves lose $1.82b

    Nigeria’s Foreign reserves lose $1.82b

    Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves have dropped by $1.82 billion over the past four months.

    The long-running downtrend has stoked fears that the economy may in be for tougher time in the months ahead.

    Official data and reports reviewed yesterday by The Nation Economic Intelligence indicated that the forex reserves had suffered consecutive declines since the beginning of this year.

    The forex reserves dropped by $47.83 million last week to close the four-month period at $35.36 billion as against $37.08 billion recorded at the close of 2022. The April 2023 closing position represented the lowest point in recent months.

    Analysts were unenthusiastic about the outlook for the nation’s forex reserves, with most experts expecting the reserves to continue deteriorating, a scenario that could worsen the country’s currency risks and delay recovery.

    A member of Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC), Mr. Bismarck Rewane, described the outlook for the nation’s forex reserves as negative.

    “The external reserve is expected to continue its downward trend in the coming weeks as major sources of forex inflows deteriorate.

    “This would be compounded by an adverse ruling in the ongoing P & ID trial. The $11bn arbitral award accounts for about 30 per cent of gross external reserves,” Rewane stated.

    Rewane, Managing Director of Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), said the implication of the declining reserves was likely worsening of the country’s external imbalance and limitation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)’s supply of foreign exchange to support the naira at the forex market.

    He noted that CBN’s inability to meet up the pressure of its managed exchange rate would lead to further depreciation of the naira.

    The naira is currently trading at N740.00/$ at the parallel market – N277 gap ahead of N463.00 per dollar at the official Investors and Exporters (I & E) Window of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

    Other analysts agreed that Nigeria’s shaky forex reserves position and currency crisis were directly due to the CBN’s currency management stance.

    The apex bank’s fixed-rate, controlled exchange policy has seen the emergence of parallel markets with some N277 basis points between the official rate and the market-driven, unofficial parallel market.

    They have called for major forex and macroeconomic reforms to stem decline and encourage direct and indirect forex inflows into the country.

    Analysts at Cordros Capital reiterated their position that the forex crisis “will remain over the short-to-medium term” as there is no positive signal that denotes an improvement in forex supply relative to the pre-COVID-19 levels.

    They said: “Moreover, considering the tepid accretion to the reserves given low crude oil production and elevated premium motor spirit (PMS) under-recovery costs, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) who have historically supported supply levels in the Investors & Exporters Window will be needed to sustain forex liquidity levels in the medium to long-term.”

    Analysts at Cordros Capital had attributed the persistent slowdown in capital importation to foreign investors’ lacklustre interest in the country “given an unclear foreign exchange framework, an uninspiring macro narrative, elevated global interest rates, and heightened global uncertainties”.

    “While we believe a new government will be a breather for the country in the short term as sentiments are likely to improve, we think foreign capital inflows will remain low compared to pre-COVID levels over the medium term in the absence of significant reforms in the forex, fiscal and monetary policy frameworks,” the Cordros Capital analysts stated.

    Their colleagues at Afrinvest (West Africa) said the prospects for Nigeria’s oil earnings is less enthusiastic, noting that irrespective of the global oil dynamics, the market may run on a negative sentiment in the weeks ahead.

    “Nonetheless, we expect the market to be driven by bearish sentiment in May,” Afrinvest stated in a review on the outlook for crude oil and Nigeria’s forex market.

    They spoke of the likelihood of naira rates across different forex segments to trade within a tight band this month.

    Afrinvest said the capital importation was “primarily due to the investors’ aversion to subsisting forex policies”.

    “Specifically, the prominence of capital controls to manage the ongoing forex crisis complicates fund repatriation from Nigeria and, by the same token, discourages new investments by offshore players,” Afrinvest stated.

    According to them, the existence of a multiplicity of forex windows muddles clarity around forex administration, subsidises the government sector at the expense of the large private economy, and contributes to the widening premium of parallel market rates to the official market.