The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

CSOs pass vote of confidence on NUPRC CEO Komolafe

A coalition of Civil Society Organisations(CSOs) has commended chief executive officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr Gbenga Komolafe, for what they described as his transparency, efficiency and developmental strides in the growth of the Noil sector.

The coalition include Rising-Up for a United Nigeria; National Coordinator, Guardians of Democracy and Development Initiative; Rural Empowerment and Development Initiative; Executive Director, Independent Public Service Accountability Watch; Nigeria Youth Advocacy for Good Governance Initiative and Executive Director, Governance and Economic Development Monitoring Initiative

Speaking at a briefing in Abuja, on Monday, leader of the coalition and convener, Rising-Up for a United Nigeria, Amb. Solomon Adodo praised the NUPRC boss for keying into President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by improving the oil regulatory activities and shoring up significant strategic production output since his assumption of office.

According to the groups: “Four days ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marked his one fruitful year in office. He came into office at a time of obvious economic crisis that could have led many leaders to despair.

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“For the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu to have succeeded so far, especially on the economic front, certain key agencies and officers have worked tirelessly, noiselessly and profoundly to deliver creditably on their mandate. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is foremost among those agencies. This principally hinged on the fact that with the coming on board of President Tinubu, the NUPRC received reinvigorated support which led to improvements in operations and the resultant significant increase in crude oil output and earnings for our dear nation at this critical point.

“It is in recognition of the enormous achievements of NUPRC that its outstanding Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Gbenga KOMOLAFE was bestowed with the highly prestigious Sun Public Service Award this year amongst several other recognitions and commendations both locally and internationally.

“Unlike the old order where some agencies in the oil and gas sector were accused of opaqueness, the NUPRC under Engr. Komolafe is known for openness, clarity, ease of doing business and predictability of business outcomes, which is why more upstream oil investors are flooding the country. This tide of positive news for the country does not, however, sit well with those who seek to antagonize the government and ensure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu fails even at the detriment of our collective progress. It is thus imperative that we assess the degree of success recorded in the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission since the advent of this administration whilst preferring pathways for greater support to the Commission,” the group said

Commenting on the excellent achievements of the NUPRC chief executive, the groups noted that Engineer Komolafe has been able to stabilize the oil business environment and attract massive productive partnerships.

“Some of his significant milestones include: “A significant reduction in crude oil theft since the Commission conducted a comprehensive audit of crude oil theft and evaluated the integrity of upstream assets to determine the actual extent of theft in the industry. Further measures were implemented to address crude oil theft by enhancing cargo declaration and upstream measurement processes. Additionally, enhanced regulations were put in place to combat crude oil theft, thus resulting in a major boost to Nigeria’s crude oil production from below one million barrels per day to above 1.6 million barrels per day. Presently, Nigeria’s oil production and output is at an all-time high and the environment, most conducive for business. This has led to a reversal in oil investment decline.

“The Commission undertook a comprehensive industry-wide study aimed at reactivating inactive wells in Nigeria, unlocking 700 thousand barrels of oil per day. The NUPRC also developed a template for Domestic Crude Oil Supply Obligation (DCSO) to ensure sufficient and uninterrupted feedstock to all local refineries to serve Nigeria’s domestic petroleum needs.

“All existing crude handling agreements have undergone a comprehensive review aimed at bolstering transparency and fostering competitiveness in the process of crude evacuation. This initiative is already beginning to yield a reduction in both capital and operational expenditure.

“In the area of growth of reserves, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) issued its first Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) for a geophysical survey project aimed at acquiring approximately 56,000 square kilometres of 3D seismic and gravity data offshore in the Niger Delta. A feat that will place Nigeria in the frontlines in the comity of OPEC nations.

“For optimal efficiency, the NUPRC advanced the mini bid licensing round for seven deep offshore Petroleum Prospecting Licenses (PPLs) to boost national reserves. This effort, resulted in an increase of the country’s crude oil reserves to 37.50 billion barrels of oil and 209.26 trillion cubic feet of gas, reflecting a 1.43% and 0.21% increase, respectively, compared to 2023 figures.

“The Commission with proper foresight also engaged Exploration & Production companies to unlock approximately 57 trillion cubic feet of uncommitted or unmonetised gas reserves Furthermore, the annual Domestic Gas Delivery Obligation (DGDO) has been issued to all leasees to drive growth in gas production. This initiative seeks to balance export portfolios with the expanding demand in the domestic gas market with a resultant lower gas prices. The DGDO algorithm will unlock more upstream gas supply for increased domestic gas utilisation.

“As a significant transparency milestone in oil and gas revenue optimisation, the Commission has effectively transitioned the management of Fiscal Oil Prices (FOP) differentials from NNPCL to NUPRC It began publishing market-reflective Fiscal Oil Prices (FOP) differentials on NUPRC’s website in line with the transparency objectives of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.

“The Commission has conducted a thorough audit of the capability of upstream operators to generate enough revenue or resources to cover their operational costs and obligations. In this context, the Commission has carried out an initial financial viability assessment for upstream petroleum companies to ensure the sector’s long-term financial sustainability and stability. This has significantly boosted investor confidence in the upstream sector.

“Engr. Komolafe has also seen to the re- engineering of the Nigeria National Data Repository (NDR), monetization of oil blocks and the alignment of regulations with global energy transition initiatives and carbon footprint reduction goals. Nigeria’s commitment to the elimination of gas flaring is a testament to Engr. Komolafe’s goal-getting doggedness. Under the Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialization Program (NGCP), it has forty-nine flare sites for commercialization, demonstrating commitment to environmental sustainability and resource optimization. The Nigerian Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme (NGFCP), the initiative has accounted for the monetisation of approximately 50% of gas currently being flared towards achieving the Net Zero target. A 60% reduction in fugitive methane emissions from oil and gas was achieved for the first time based on robust data provided by the Commission. The NUPRC engaged with the International Finance Corporation regarding opportunities surrounding Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS). To advance energy transition, decarbonisation, and carbon monetisation, the Commission established an Energy Transition and Carbon Monetisation unit, formulated a regulatory framework, and commenced enabling carbon credit earnings through a defined framework for key climate action initiatives and related activities.

“As a proactive inclusive development approach to ensure seamless operations, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission has also expedited the execution of the Host Community Development Regulation and incorporated the Host Communities Development Trust Fund (HCDTF) to curb community restiveness and foster a conducive business environment. This enabled the incorporation of 111 Host Communities Development Trusts (HCDTs) at the Corporate Affairs Commission. The Commission developed “HostComply,” an intelligent, digital, automated platform for reporting and monitoring HCDT activities to ensure effective implementation and transparent administration of the HostCom provisions of the PIA. The Littoral States were assigned to deepwater operators, with qualified communities within these states communicating with their respective settlers. This has resulted in the elimination of needless agitations, communal clashes and militancy.

“Furthermore, as part of NUPRC’s effort to develop Frontier Basins, the Commission opened a Frontier Exploration Fund Account with the Central Bank of Nigeria, into which 30% of NNPC Limited Profit Oil and Profit Gas is paid. Additionally, the drilling of three wells was facilitated in the Frontier basins. The beneficiaries thus have more funds to develop and diversify their local economy.

“In all aspects of showcasing transparency, efficiency in regulatory activities and shoring up strategic production output, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission has blazed the trail with several valued achievements. This can be attributed to the reinvigorated zeal to march on with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda. So as the government celebrates one year of success in the petroleum industry, it is imperative that public officers like Engr. Gbenga Komolafe be singled out and celebrated for giving life to Mr. President’s vision and adding value to governance.

The groups further warned detractors to desist from maligning the image of the NUPRC chief, stressing that that “those who profit in dysfunctional systems are bound be very dissatisfied and plot against the obvious progress being made.”

“The Commission must not be distracted and its leadership under Engr. Komolafe must not rest on his oars in ensuring that the Nigerian Upstream oil industry is a global reference point,” the group concluded.

June 4, 2024
Obasanjo, a timeless statesman, says Olowu of Kuta

The Olowu of Kuta, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adekunle Oyelude Makama has described former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as a timeless statesman whose presence will be felt many years after his generation.

Oba Makama, who congratulated Chief Obasanjo for enjoying a healthily long life, asserted that God purposely blessed Nigeria with Obasanjo, who spent his life as military head of state and civilian president to unite the country.

Shortly after he had successfully hosted Obasanjo and his entourage in his magnificent Olowu Palace in Kuta on Monday, June 3, Oba Makama revealed that he was always excited reading and listening to Obasanjo’s informed comments on public issues.

“Whether we like it or we don’t like it, he has never been intimidated not to pass his messages and take a walk off the podium. And if you study his views with broad mind, you are bound to pick invaluable points therein because he doesn’t speak for the sake of it. He does with intellectual depth, passion, and, above all, patriotism.

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“That is why he will remain relevant till tomorrow. His engagement of very sensitive global issues with courage and power of articulation, has won for him both recognition and respect at international fora where you have former and serving presidents listening to him with rapt attention,” he noted.

The Olowu Kuta urged Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to accord personalities like Obasanjo and other heads of government respect because, he emphasised, ruling Nigeria, a country peopled by about 200 ethnic groups, is not a child’s play or a task for the lilly livered persons.

The traditional ruler also expressed his gratitude to the Owu-born former president for the visit and pray for continued God’s grace and longevity for him, concluding that Obasanjo is the “most valuable asset of Owu and cherished by all.”

Obasanjo also praised Olowu Kuta for bequeathing what he called a world-class palace to the ancient Owu Kuta and commended him for showcasing and promoting core Yoruba culture in his domain and beyond.

Obasanjo, who holds the traditional title of the Balogun Owu, charged Kuta elite to rally round the monarch in all ways and ensure the beautiful palace standard is maintained.

In Obasanjo’s delegation were the Olowu of Owu Abeokuta, Oba (Prof) Saka Matemilola Oluyalo-Otileta (VII), the Royal Union of Owu People (RUOP)

led by its President Alhaji Fatai Akinbade, Honourable Fatoki and a host of others.

The Kuta Ambassadors led by Dr Lekan Ayantunji, Honourable Yinusa Akintola Amobi, Honourable Mukaila Oladejo, and other Kuta sons and daughters also welcomed the former president.

Friends of Olowu Kuta in attendance included Professor Siyan Oyeweso and Professor Oguntola Alamu, amongst others.

June 3, 2024
Embrace dialogue, CAN tells NLC, TUC

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to allow dialogue in the interest of the nation.

CAN said the legitimate demands of the labour unions for a fair and adequate minimum wage are understandable and justified.

A statement on Monday by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh reads: “The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has viewed with great concern the ongoing strike action by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) over the minimum wage impasse and wishes to advise as follows.

“Nigerian workers deserve a living wage that meets their basic needs and ensures their well-being. At the same time, I am acutely aware of the devastating impact that this strike is having on our economy and the most vulnerable members of our society. The disruption of essential services and the economic strain on families are causing widespread distress and hardship.

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“I strongly urge both the government and labour unions to return to the negotiating table with a renewed commitment to finding a mutually acceptable solution. It is crucial that we prioritize dialogue and compromise to resolve this impasse peacefully.

“The path to resolving this crisis lies in mutual respect and understanding, where both parties can work together to achieve a fair outcome”.

He appealed to the government to earnestly consider the plight of Nigerian workers and take decisive action to implement a living wage.

Okoh said: “Our workers are the backbone of our nation, and their well-being is integral to our collective prosperity. Similarly, I encourage the labor unions to conduct their protests in a peaceful and law-abiding manner, avoiding violence and the destruction of property. We must remember that our actions today will shape the Nigeria of tomorrow.

“In these challenging times, I call on all Nigerians to remain calm and steadfast. Let us unite in prayer for a swift and just resolution to this crisis. It is through our collective efforts, guided by faith and a commitment to peace, that we can build a nation that truly prioritizes the well-being of all its citizens”.

June 3, 2024
Detractors sabotaging my government, Fubara alleges

Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara has alleged desperate and spirited efforts by detractors to sabotage his administration and frustrate the delivery of good governance and quality services to the State.

Fubara also clarified that the present administration would not go into the completion of the monorail project initiated by the Chibuike Amaechi-led government, except a serious private sector investor decided to commit resources to the project under a well-defined private public partnership arrangement.

Fubara emphasised that he would want to be remembered by not just the signature road projects with legacy bridges and flyovers, but sustainable impact human capital and manpower development as well as other critical infrastructural landmarks to bridge the healthcare and education gaps in the state.

He spoke while addressing officers of the Standing Committee and members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors led by the NGE President, Eze Anaba, at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Port Harcourt on Sunday evening.

Also on the delegation were chief executive officers, heads of stations, editors, heads and managers of news of other media outfits located in the Rivers State capital, as well as leaders of the state council of Nigeria Union of Journalists and Correspondents Chapel of NUJ, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and Rivers State Independent Publishers’ Association (RIVPA).

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The Governor explained that detractors were desperately attempting to frustrate and embarrass the state government’s dogged efforts to provide the dividends of democracy to the people on whose mandate it was striving to legitimately and constitutionally serve the interest of the State.

Fubara listed attempts to scuttle the process of governance in the state, including the clandestine calls to some key speakers and prominent personalities invited to participate at the just-concluded Rivers Economic and Investment Summit not to associate with his administration or participate in the programme designed to reposition the state for robust investments and progressive economic rejuvenation.

The Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Nelson Chukwudi said that it took the courage of some of the speakers and invited guests to honour the government and participate fully in the programme.

He also drew the editors’ attention to efforts to frustrate the revival and completion of the Port Harcourt International Automobile Spare Parts Trading and Commercial Centre just kicked-off at Iriebe in Elelenwo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area about a month ago by cajoling the previous contractors, who had abandoned the project due to lack of support to sue the state government to court to derail the project.

He noted that this was after his administration had settled and paid off the initial contractors engaged by the previous administration on the project, adding that because of the reputation and integrity of the contractors, they declined to follow the path of dishonour and sabotage of the greater good and interest of the State.

Fubara also highlighted the challenges faced by the government on the construction of the 20,000 housing units in Mgbodo-Aluu axis of the Greater Port Harcourt City Development area in Ikwerre Local Government, saying that the investors in the project had faced litigations from land grabbers sponsored by opposition elements targeting to scuttle the government.

He explained that the massive lands duly acquired and paid for by the Chibuike Amaechi-led administration at the area had been deliberately encroached on by sponsored land grabbers, who had emerged to claim ownership of the lands and had already instituted no fewer than 52 litigations against the government for lands the government had paid for many years ago.

Fubara emphasised that despite the many deliberate sabotage efforts and political crisis engineered by his detractors, his administration remained focused on the ball, and consciously recorded significant successes within its one year in office but four months of full control of governance of the State.

He said: “Rivers People First” mantra of his administration, saying that he expend Rivers money to deliver quality services and good governance to Rivers people, and not one individual or group of few desperate politicians angling to satisfy their selfish desires and ambitions.

“We are a government legitimately and constitutionally constituted in the State. It is our duty to carry out the function and act of governance properly. But somehow, we have some issues which I won’t want to dwell on.

“Like I said, we have to move on, and moving on is where we are today. By the special grace of God, we have recorded successes. We might not have gotten it the way it would have been, if everything was fine. It takes a government that is courageous to do what we have done,” given our circumstances.

He noted that at the inception of his administration a year ago, strategies were put in place to boost the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the State, adding that good money was saved which is being committed to landmark projects that are now ongoing in the State.

The governor explained that his administration decided to execute key signature projects that had been avoided by previous administrations because their impact would add significant value to the lives of the people and spike the revenue profile of the State to enable it bounce back as a buoyant economic hub and compete favourably with Lagos, including deepening its potential in the blue economy.

He listed such ‘trunk A’ projects as the expansive 50:51km Port Harcourt Ring Road project, traversing six local government areas of Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Elele, and Okrika, with a river crossing, six flyovers, over 12 roundabouts and interchanges; the 12km original Trans-Kalabari Road, connecting Port Harcourt City to the three Kalabari local governments of Asari-Toru, Akuku-Toru, and Degema, with many bridges; as well as the 33.5km Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road, with many bridges also.

The Governor said that out of the whopping sum of N195billion total cost, excluding compensation, 77 percent of the sum amounting to N147billion has been paid to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc handling the Port Harcourt Ring Road, with significant work already done from six sections of the projects.

He also noted that the Trans-Kalabari Road project, which was flagged-off by former President Goodluck Jonathan on May 20, would cost a total of N225.1billion, out of which 30 percent, amounting to N67billion has been paid upfront to facilitate mobilization and fast-track construction work in the difficult deltaic terrain.

The Governor further stated that the Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road project would cost the government a staggering N80.8billion, out of which N40.4billion, representing 50 percent of the contract sum has been paid, adding that the government decided to award contract for the road to save lives of people from that axis of the State from criminal gangs, open up the area to increase business activities and connectivity while facilitating communication of the people through land routes to Imo State.

Fubara stressed that apart from the Port Harcourt Ring Road, which was being funded from loan facility, the three key projects of Trans-Kalabari Road, Elele-Egbeda-Omoku Road, and the Okania-Ogbogoro Road, also costing over N6billion, were being funded with savings accruing from IGR and federation accounts allocations over the last one year.

The Governor added that over 34 projects inherited from the immediate past administration had been completed, while others were being expedited for completion, adding that his administration would turn around infrastructure in the healthcare and education sectors in the next six months.

He lamented the dearth of primary and secondary healthcare facilities as well as decent education development infrastructure across the local governments, and assured that in no distant time, his government would transform both sectors for the good of the people of the State in line with its policy thrust of the People First.

June 3, 2024
Presidential committee proposes daily FAAC fund disbursement

The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee has proposed to transform the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) disbursement process.

The committee plans to shift from monthly to daily disbursements to the three tiers of government.

Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Committee Taiwo Oyedele stated this in Abuja on Monday at a public consultation workshop for journalists and public analysts

Traditionally, FAAC meets monthly to allocate funds to Federal, State and local governments.

But Oyedele explained this method is outdated, similar to practices in 1814.

“We believe the system can be configured to credit the accounts of local, state, and federal governments daily,” Oyedele stated, adding that this change has received support from key stakeholders, including the Accountant General of the Federation.

The proposed daily disbursement system aims to make the monthly FAAC meetings more focused on national fiscal strategies rather than routine reconciliations, which can be handled by junior accountants.

This change is expected to streamline processes and reduce the impact of sudden changes in foreign exchange rates.

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Oyedele highlighted the need to reduce the cost of revenue collection to 1 percent aligning with international best practices.

Nigeria’s collection costs range from 4 percent to over 30 percent. “If an agency cannot collect revenue at 1 percent, it should not be collecting it at all,” Oyedele emphasised.

This reform aims to ensure government agencies focus on their primary functions rather than duplicating tax collection efforts.

According to Oyedele: “We are serious with the 1 percent and it should cut across everybody, if you cannot collect revenue with 1 percent then you should not be collecting it at all that’s why we were saying let government agencies focus on the primary reason they were set up for.

“If they are not set up to collect tax they can’t be efficient and competent in doing it, things will work better if everybody plays to their strength there’s a reason why every country has their revenue collection agency and not to replicate that function and be expecting that everything will be fine. A countries like South Africa is under 1 percent.

Addressing the issue of Value Added Tax (VAT) collection, Oyedele and the disputes between federal and state governments in the past, the committee is recommending placing VAT under the exclusive list for centralised collection with 90 percent of the revenue allocated to the States.

This proposal is seen as a political solution to a problem that has led to legal battles.

The committee also is also proposing a phased reduction of the Corporate Income Tax (CIT) rate from 30 percent to 25 percent by 2026.

June 3, 2024
NLC defends shutting down national grid

The Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) has defended the decision of workers in the electricity sector to shut down the national grid on Monday.

In a statement on Monday by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero the Congress tackled the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) over claims that the monitoring and compliance team of NLC attacked workers manning their facilities.

The statement said that Nigerian workers will not be intimidated by any form of falsehood dished out by TCN or any other agency or organisation of the government.

The nation was thrown into darkness following the shut down of the national power grid by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), a development that brewed controversy across the country.

The statement reads: “The Nigeria Labour Congress categorically states that Nigerian workers will not be intimidated by the management of any organisation or government entity over our rightful decision to withdraw services through the indefinite nationwide strike that commenced earlier this morning.

“The spreading of outright falsehood to mislead the public instead of working with other stakeholders to resolve the issues raised by Nigerian workers via the NLC and TUC is not helpful in any way.”

The statement further said: “It will rather inflame the anger of the suffering masses who are already burdened by the cruel policies of the federal government.

“It is important that we address the Press statement by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) where they made false claims regarding the indefinite nationwide strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC).

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“The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) should understand that the company is not the only one impacted by the massive withdrawal of service across the nation by Nigerian workers. It should therefore not make it a TCN affair, as other organisations also suffer from one breakdown in service or the other as a result of the nationwide industrial action.

“The Management of TCN ought to have realised that the NLC and TUC issued a notice to the federal government since the beginning of May 2024 on the issues of non-completion of the National Minimum Wage negotiation exercise and passage into Law and the vexatious hike in electricity tariff. We had demanded the completion of the Wage-setting process and a reversal of the hike in electricity tariff back to N66/kWh without any positive response from the government.

“We had thought that a responsible and proactive Management or organisation would have anticipated the impact of any nationwide strike on its operation and would have joined other stakeholders in urging the federal government to meet the demands of Nigerian workers.

“Unfortunately, the TCN was not responsive enough and could therefore not take adequate steps to assist the government avert the indefinite nationwide strike. Perhaps, TCN is not deeply worried about the plight of Nigerian workers who suffer in penury as a result of their poor pay, thus deciding not to take any positive action. In any case, we are crying because government policies have impoverished us and made living exceedingly difficult.

“One wonders whether TCN’s management needs education on the dynamics of industrial action? It is not true that anybody was manhandled by us in any TCN location. Maybe, TCN in its effort to scuttle the strike tried to force workers to be at work not realising the resolve of all workers to stay away. Why would the grid not go down when the workers who operate them decide to withdraw their service? That is how it works and it further demonstrates that without workers, no wheel can turn; no work can take place anywhere.

“Nigerian workers, led by the NLC and TUC, have exercised due caution and unusual patience in our engagement with our social partners, and this restraint has been grossly abused, unfortunately, which has led us to the present impasse. Trying to buck-pass instead of accepting blame and taking necessary steps to put its house in order will not allow the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to make discernible progress.

“We would like the organisation to take adequate measures to ensure that it discharges its responsibilities to Nigerians, especially in the Electricity sector, instead of dissipating its energy on trying to insult Nigerian workers by its deliberate peddling of falsehood.

“We have been duly informed that the TCN management has resorted to the use of the military in its effort to intimidate and harass workers in its employ who are carrying out their lawful and democratic duties at various TCN plants around Nigeria.”

The NLC said the Management of TCN would be held liable for any injury inflicted on any worker by their resort to the use of the powers of the military.

The statement added” “It is also important that we inform TCN that deploying military men to its locations is a clear abuse and insult to the military, especially in a democracy. We are sure that members of the military so misused by this deployment are not happy with the management and the authorities who have authorised the deployment.

“The NLC and TUC remain steadfast in their commitment to the emancipation of downtrodden Nigerians and will persist in the struggle for a fair and just living wage, as well as the reversal of the excessive electricity tariff hike. We call on all Nigerians to stand in solidarity with us as we demand the implementation of policies that prioritize the wellbeing of the people. We will not back down, and we will not give in to any blackmail, intimidation, or harassment.

“We use this opportunity to appreciate all Nigerians for their solidarity on the first day of this indefinite nationwide engagement and call on them as we move into the second day of this struggle to come out in numbers and join the nationwide industrial action. It is our collective struggle, and together, we can throw off the shackles that have kept us marooned in the cesspit of massive and excruciating suffering.”

June 3, 2024
Why I reduced Ondo civil servants’ wage award to N15,000, by Aiyedatiwa

Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has explained why he reduced civil servants’ N35,000 wage award to N15,000.

Governor Aiyedatiwa said the reduction was to enable his administration gets enough resources to pay the wage award for workers of the tertiary institutions.

Aiyedatiwa, who spoke in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said the reduction followed approval of the payment of N35,000 monthly wage award to workers of state-owned tertiary institutions.

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The statement said the payment of the wage award would run for six months

Aiyedatiwa said he approved the wage award for tertiary institution workers after last week’s meeting with the heads of tertiary institutions and leaders of the workers of the institutions

He said the inability of the tertiary institutions to pay the award from their subvention necessitated his intervention.

Pensioners in the state, according to the statement, were still receiving N10,000 monthly wage award.

June 3, 2024
Sustainable approach to nation building, national devt

Nigeria’s youth population accounts for about 70 per cent of the country’s total population, estimated at over 200 million. Of the 157 million youths in Nigeria, about 53 per cent are currently unemployed, placing Nigeria as the country with the second highest number of unemployed youths in the world, next only to South Africa’s 61 per cent.

The great potential of the Nigerian youth to expand the country’s capacity as a global economic hub has been blunted, with inadequate job opportunities robbing the country of vast unexplored and underutilized intellectual and material resources.

The Nigerian state is yet to fully harness the vast potential of its youth; despite the Nigeria National Youth Policy 2019 which details the plans and policy approach of the Federal Government of Nigeria. There is no clearly articulated strategic plans to support and empower youths to develop critical skills, be productively engaged in jobs, and contribute to nation building.

This harsh reality has left most youths resigned to hopelessness and frustrating idleness. The current practice of youth empowerment in the country, targeted at the individual, is at best, tokenistic. Interventions that single out specific young people, though useful, have dangerous ramifications when used alone. It creates a mindset of scarcity in young people that increases despondency and restiveness among the population.

Young people have been long denied of opportunities to bring their leadership potentials to bear for national development. This has sparked a power struggle between the aged and youths. This is often reflected in the political domain.

One of the main sources of tension between the aged and youth in politics is the issue of representation. Many young people feel that their voices are not being heard in the decision-making process, especially on issues that directly affects their lives. This has led to a feeling of distrust which if not accorded sufficient attention, further erodes state society relations.

On the one hand, while older individuals who have been involved at the highest decision-making levels for a longer period of time bring to bear ample experience and knowledge, which can be beneficial in nation building and national development, youths possess and have a rich store of fresh perspectives, energy, and ideas that can help to bring about positive change and innovation.

In today’s Nigeria, the power of youth in nation-building is undervalued. Young people can be agents of change and social progress. They can be a force for good if they have the right tools and opportunities to participate in their communities. Harnessing the strength and value of the youth is essential for effective nation-building and national development.

Youth can play an important role in addressing social issues, while fostering the creation of a more equitable society. By engaging young people in meaningful dialogue and activities, we can create an environment that enables civic participation and encourages them to become active citizens. By investing in all and not some of its youth, Nigeria will be able to build strong foundations for long-term progress and success.

The popular “Not Too Young to Run” law is a form of communal empowerment that confers permitted power on young people. Though not a silver bullet, it is a prime example of the whole-scale perspective that can effectively empower young people. Systemic interventions like this across sectors in education, health, industry, politics, and finance must be prioritized and thoroughly executed. It is equally important to foster participation and inclusion of young people in leadership and governance to the drive sustainable national development.

As a country, we must create opportunities for our young people which empowers them to be self-reliant, such as through volunteering, mentoring programs, and skills acquisition training programmes amongst others.

We must also equip them with the tools they need to be effective citizens by providing access to quality education, resources, and support networks. Discourses on nation building such as the annual Dr. Fola Aina Colloquium on and Youth, Leadership and Nation Building slated to begin later this year, the first of its kind in Nigeria, is intended at further creating a sense of awareness among Nigerian youths on their roles and potential in advancing nation building towards national development.

Through other initiatives by Triola Aina Foundation (TAF) in this regard including the Annual National Essay Competition on Nation Building, Scholarship programs and the coveted Dr. Fola Aina Fellowship for the development of youth leadership, amongst others, we can ensure that our youth grow into powerful agents of positive change in our communities and country.

Nigeria’s youth population is projected to be north of 100 million by 2030. This offers substantial opportunities and associated risks. There is an immense opportunity for economic and social development if the talents of this increasing reservoir of human capital are productively harnessed and deployed. They could also pose a significant risk and threat to social cohesion and political stability if the country fails to create sufficient economic and employment opportunities to support opportunities for its teeming youth population. If youth are provided with sufficient education, training and jobs, then the growth in their numbers could be highly beneficial for the nation’s development. Youth can be a positive force for development when provided with the knowledge and opportunities they need to thrive.

Youths are the most productive members of any nation. They are the most active and energetic workforce that contribute to socio-economic development of the society. With over 60% of the population comprising people between the age group of 18-35, according to the National Youth Policy, young people have a demographic advantage over every other age group. Young people must lead the rebuilding project by uniting the nation on all fronts, devoid of ethnical or religious sentiment. Certainly, youths are one of the greatest assets any nation can have, and Nigeria is blessed to have a large population of youths.

Dr Fola Aina, a leadership, security and development expert is the Founder and President of Triola Aina Foundation, Nigeria.

June 3, 2024
One score card: North’s forum scores Wike, Audu, Umahi, Ojo high

In its assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet members after one year in office, the Concerned Northern Forum (CNF) has praised the Minister of Steel Development and his counterparts in the Federal Capital Territory, Works, and Interior ministries for their commitment to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Forum, which includes over 73 civil society organizations focused on the development of Northern Nigeria, is a prominent CSO.

Speaking at a press conference at Arewa House in Kaduna on Sunday, the Forum’s national vice chairman, Comrade Muhammad Aminu Abbas, congratulated President Tinubu on his impactful first year in office and commended his hardworking ministers, whose performance has inspired hope for a better Nigeria.

He said: “Today, we are gathered to celebrate and congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR on his impactful one year in office and also to run a scorecard on some performing Ministers towards decorating the most outstanding stewards in the current cabinet who have flown high the banner of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This is our modest way of encouraging Nigerians to imbibe the virtue of hard work and excellence.

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“Having done our due diligence and evaluated all the Ministers under the administration in the period under review, we have identified true patriots who have served President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and indeed Nigerians as excellent Ministers and worthy ambassadors of the Federal Executive Council (FEC). Based on our scorecard, the following Ministers have made it on our elite list of top performers.

“The Ministers are; H.E. Nyesom Wike, who as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory has revolutionized the provision of infrastructure and land administration in the FCT within a short period of time in office.

“Equally deserving of accolades is H.E. Engr. Dave Umahi, Minister of Works whose giant strides in road construction including the legacy Lagos to Calabar coastal highway and Badagry to Sokoto highway as well as the ingenious use of cement for construction has drastically cut down the cost of road construction and reduced pressure on our foreign exchange.

“Another top performer deserving of mention is Hon. Bunmi T. Ojo, whose Interior Ministry employed innovative technology and cost saving means to clear the backlog of passport application, ushering in an era of instant passport application and collection.

The Coalition’s spotlight was however, on the Minister of Steel Development, Hon. Prince Shuaibu Audu whom they described as “a youth like us, a rare breed who has demonstrated enormous capacity in the Ministry of Steel Development and has more than all the other Ministers pioneered policies and projects which have the potential for the industrialization and rapid economic development of the nation”.

While appreciating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for deploying technical parameters to measure the performance of all ministries using key indicators, an initiative championed by the office of Hadiza Bala Usman, the Coalition maintained that even though Government has done well, the people who are direct beneficiaries of these policies are equally in a position to give their perspective on the performance of Ministers and their ministries and hence their spotlight of the Honourable Minister of Steel Development.

“It is on this note that we have decided pick Hon. Prince Shuaibu Audu as our star performer amongst all the Ministers and to make our position known on the historic developments in the steel sector within the last one year and also bear witness to the fact that the Minister has performed excellently well and even beyond the expectations of Nigerians as he strives to revive the hitherto moribund steel sector including the comatose Ajaokuta Steel Complex.

“In line with the vision and blueprint of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR who is determined to stir Nigeria on the path of economic recovery and growth, the Minister has already taken steps to explore the possibility of securing up to $5 million funding from the World Bank to finance the 10-year roadmap for the steel and metals sector. This creative solutions gives hope to a sector that was unproductive due to negligence and lack of credible administrators and technocrats.

“Already, talks have been completed with Russia’s TyazhPromExport (TPE) Consortium, the original equipment manufacturers and developers of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL) with a view to exploring options available for reviving the company. This collaboration and partnership equally is also likely to attract an additional $2 billion for the revamping of Ajaokuta Steel Company. The Honorable Minister is also at the concluding stages of raising ₦35 billion (over $25 million) from local financiers for the revival of the Light Steel Mill (LSM) at Ajaokuta”.

The Forum also said: “Plans towards the establishment of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) park at the Ajaokuta Steel Complex in order to tap into the ₦100 billion fund set-up by the federal government, as a major step to bringing back to life, the economically viable industry as well as the reviving of steel facilities and research centres in Jos, Plateau State and the National Steel Raw Materials Agency, Kaduna.

“As critical stakeholders who are actively involved in the political and social development of our communities, we have great confidence in this administration’s capacity to create jobs and end youth unemployment,” the Forum leader said.

June 2, 2024
PWDS, CSOs urge Tinubu to appoint Tejuosho as humanitarian minister

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) have appealed to President Bola Tinubu to appoint Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as the new Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

Speaking at a press conference organized by the Coalition of Nigerian Civil Society Organizations in collaboration with the PWDs, the chairman of the Northern Youth Disability Forum, Muhammad Musa Zaria, emphasised that the new minister should be someone who recognizes the ongoing struggles of PWDs and the need for focused governmental support to enhance their quality of life.

They said Tejuosho has over the years proven to be a dedicated person who understands and advocates for the needs of the less privileged and People With Disabilities.

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They however urged President Tinubu to consider filling the vacuum created by the suspension of the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, by appointing Halimat Adenike Tejuosho as the new minister. They believe this appointment would help Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in the area of poverty alleviation.

According to Zaria, “It goes without saying that since the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation has been without a minister, the government is failing to provide basic succor to the less privileged. From her antecedents and if given the opportunity, Hajiya Halimat Adenike Tejuosho will continue to extend her generosity and passion to bring a turnaround in the fortunes of the less privileged and downtrodden in Nigeria,” the statement noted.

“This is our collective resolve born out of the conviction that with the support she has been giving people in the community for over 10 years, she’s the right person for the job. Politics, region, and other considerations should be put aside to allow competence and merit to prevail,” he stressed.

June 2, 2024