The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Report

  • Private partnerships needed to deliver on projects, say Keyamo

    Private partnerships needed to deliver on projects, say Keyamo

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN) has said the ministry would commit to private partnerships as part of efforts to deliver projects and infrastructure within the aviation industry.

    Keyamo said this at the inspection and commissioning of the first hotel project at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA, yesterday in Abuja.

    The minister emphasised the importance of collaboration between the government and private companies to successfully implement projects and drive growth in the sector.

    According to him, the ministry can no longer rely on budgetary allocation to fund its ambition, stressing the need for private investment in infrastructure development, technology upgrades, to meet the growing demands of the sector.

    Read Also: Too early to expect perfection from Tinubu – Gowon

    He urged stakeholders in the aviation sector to embrace partnerships with private companies and explore new avenues for collaboration.

    He said: “For now our focus in the aviation sector is to collaborate with the private sector. The reason is that all the ministries that have to do with infrastructure within the country, our budgetary system cannot fund our ambition in terms of infrastructure. The budgetary system can no longer fund projects.

    “What we have been doing is to attract private sector participation in development of our infrastructure and enhance passenger experience. A Lot of the private sector collaboration is in the kitchen cooking.”

    Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Olubunmi Kuku, said the project was in line with the agency’s mandate “to provide our passengers within the airport environment in Nigeria.”

    She added that the project will not only help the ministry generate more funds to achieve its ambitions, but will improve passengers’ experience.

    She said: “FAAN has been given the mandate to improve passenger experience of every user of airport facilities in Nigeria.

    “We are grateful to the MRS team because this is indeed a step forward as we start to make sure that all our passengers have an amazing experience. It is a 23 room facility with a restaurant, wellness facility, meeting rooms for conferences. This is the beginning of a remarkable partnership between the Ministry of Aviation FAAN and MRS group. Everyone should have thought it through and begun to change our business model.”

    The Acting Director General, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Captain Chris Njomo, reassured Nigerians over the security of the hospitality center, adding that the project is duly regulated.

  • Plateau varsity ASUU suspends strike

    Plateau varsity ASUU suspends strike

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in Plateau State University Bokkos has suspended its almost three months industrial action.

    The branch chairman of the union, Comrade Monday Hassan, made this known to reporters after a brief congress meeting held at Azi Nyako Dadin Kowa Youth Center.

    Read Also; Petrol importation drops by 3.29% in 2023

    Comrade Hassan urged members of the union to resume duty.

    He assured that all lost period will be regained in the next four weeks.

    He thanked parents, students and the government for taking proactive measures to end the strike action.

  • Gombe earmarks N5.2b to pay retirees’ gratuities

    Gombe earmarks N5.2b to pay retirees’ gratuities

    Gombe State government has earmarked more than N5.2 billion for the payment of gratuity to both local and state governments retirees.

    Commissioner for Local Government and Community Development, Alhaji Abdulkadir Waziri, said out of the money, N3 billion would be paid to local government retirees, while N2.2 billion would go to state retirees.

    The commissioner said the state government would settle the backlog of 2018 to 2022,

    He explained that the local government retirees’ would not be across board, as it would depend on their capacity.

    Read Also: Too early to expect perfection from Tinubu – Gowon

    ”Some will be settled for two years and others more than two years,” he explained.

    Also speaking, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Alhaji Salisu Baba-Alkali, said the state’s executive council, had approved a five-year nutritional policy.

    Baba-Alkali said it was aimed at improving children’s nutrition, as well as reducing the number of malnourished ones.

    “If the children are not fed well, the future of the state will not be secured, they are the leaders of tomorrow. Governor Inuwa Yahaya always looks into the future and provides solutions before it’s too late,” he said.

    He said that the project, in partnership with various donor agencies and counterpart funding from the state government, would gulp about N3 billion.

  • Tinubu ‘committed to workers welfare’

    Tinubu ‘committed to workers welfare’

    The minister of state for labour and employment, Mrs Nkeiruka Chidubem Onyejeocha has assured Nigerian workers of better deal under the Bola Ahmed Tinubu led-administration.

    The Minister, who  gave this assurance after a parley with Tinubu on the  issue bothering on workers welfare said Mr President  is determined to ensuring that Nigerians, particularly  workers live decent life. Mrs Onyejeocha said President Tinubu is genuinely committed to the welfare of workers and Nigerians at large

    The minister said: “Today, I had the privilege of meeting Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Read Also: Too early to expect perfection from Tinubu – Gowon

    “We had a fruitful discussion and he is sincerely committed to the welfare of workers and Nigerians at large

    Mr President assured me that Nigerian workers are one of his priorities, stating that he will not play politics with the life of any Nigerian.He also urged Nigerians to remain calm for he will not let them down”

    On the N1 million new minimum wage being proposed by the organized labour, the minister said: “That is why we have the tripartite committee which means that, three people or segment will sit and decide on what will be the new minimum wage no one arm or a particular person can decide on it all alone. It will be a collective decision which be for the good of all Nigerians. Tripartite committee set up by the federal government  has scheduled meetings which will start this week . So we are sitting.”

  • Reps pledge to support NSCDC tackle crude oil theft, protect critical national assets

    Reps pledge to support NSCDC tackle crude oil theft, protect critical national assets

    The Special Committee on Oil Theft/Losses of the House of Representatives has pledged to provide support for the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to protect critical national infrastructure which includes oil pipelines and other oil and gas assets in a bid to tackle oil theft, vandalism and other such activities inimical to the economic health of the country.

    Chairman of the Committee, Hon Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, made the pledge when he led members of the Committee on a working visit to the Headquarters of the NSCDC in Abuja on Tuesday.

    Ado-Doguwa, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of the Committee, Hon Sesi Olawasegun, in a meeting with the Commandant General of the Corps, Dr Ahmed Audi, during the visited, lauded the Corps for its efforts so far which has yielded laudable results.

    Ado-Doguwa stressed the need to conduct a comprehensive review, audit and risk assessment to ensure the protection of the pipelines and other critical assets.

    He said, as the lead agency, the Corps should as a matter of priority and in collaboration with other stakeholders develop a Critical National Security Assets and infrastructure (CNAI) Protection Response Plan that designates roles and responsibilities for all stakeholders.

    The lawmaker warned “saboteurs and enemies of our country to have a rethink and desist from their evil onslaught on the economic livewire of this nation. “

    He said, Nigeria is the only country “we can call our own, and we all must join hands to build it.”

    He said, “These core responsibility of protecting Critical National Security Assets and infrastructure (CNAI) among others are so germane to solving the devastating menace of crude oil theft currently ravaging our country

    “May I also emphasise that the protection of critical assets and infrastructure is very vital to the continued existence of every nation globally. To that effect, the Nigeria’s National Security Strategy (NNSS) 2019, captured and emphasised the urgent need for safeguarding these assets.

    “It was clearly stated in the National Security Strategy document that: ‘The key objectives of identifying, classifying and prioritizing Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) are to determine appropriate levels of protection required for each CNAI or groups of CNAI; enhance the resilience of CNAI to hazards; and minimize the effect of attacks or disasters on CNΑΙ.’

    Read Also; Petrol importation drops by 3.29% in 2023

    “The document further highlighted that: “The lead agency statutorily responsible for protecting all Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) is the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). This therefore means that a lot is expected from the Corp.

    “I commend the Commandant General and the officers and men of the Corp for your outstanding commitment in delivering on your several mandates despite the enormous challenges confronting the Corp, however, the reality of what the country is facing today demands more from all of us.

    “The special committee on Oil Theft/Losses have the mandate of the House to work with you to address the challenge of oil theft.

    “Ladies and gentlemen, It is on record that the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Alhaji Mele Kyari was recently reported to have lamented that the over 5,000 kilometres of oil pipelines are not working due to pipeline vandalism.

    “Likewise, the Presidential Special Investigative Panel on Oil theft/Losses in Nigeria stated in their report that ‘crude oil theft and related pipeline sabotage have forced some companies to shut down production and/ or sell off their assets. Shell, Chevron, Mobil and other IOCs are divesting their land and shallow water assets mainly because they no longer see growth potentials in them.

    “‘It is also the same for Marginal field operators. They all cite the significance difference between what they produce at the wellheads and output at the terminals, as an operational challenge that occasions huge losses of their investment.”

    The Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Audi, expressed appreciation to the National Assembly for the support but said there was still so much that needed to be done to enae the corps effectively achieve its mandate.

    He said so far over 600 vandals had been arrested and more than 200 successfully prosecuted.

    The Commandant General said the Corps has developed kinetic and non-kinetic measures to deal with the problem.

    Audi said the Corps were working assiduously on its objectives, but is greatly hampered by lack of funds among other problems.

  • NANS pays tribute to Akeredolu

    NANS pays tribute to Akeredolu

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has paid glowing tributes to the late Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.

    A statement by NANS Senate President Akinteye Babatunde Afeez eulogised the late Akeredolu for his commendable strides in infrastructural development, educational empowerment, and the overall well-being Ondo State.

    He described the deceased as  a seasoned general who  fearlessly confronted the issues that plagued the state, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

    Afeez said his pivotal role cannot be underestimated as the frontier and advocate of state policing who was at the forefront of  the Amotekun movement.

    The statement reads in part : “In  the tapestry of leadership, some figures shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those they serve. Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, is undeniably one of these luminaries—a beacon of inspiration and unwavering dedication.

    “As we reflect on the chapters of his leadership, it brings immense joy to acknowledge the transformative impact he has had on our lives and community. His tenure stands as a testament to resilience, vision, and a commitment to the betterment of our beloved region.

     “Akeredolu has been a guiding force, steering us through challenges with wisdom, compassion, and an unwavering belief in the potential of our people. His dedication to justice, exemplified by the Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title, has translated into a tireless pursuit of fairness, equity, and a society where everyone can thrive.

    Read Also: CJN, NBA, Aiyedatiwa extol Akeredolu

    “What sets him apart is not just the milestones achieved but the genuine empathy he exhibits towards every citizen. His open-door policy and willingness to listen to the concerns of the people have fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose.

    “It’s a source of immense pride to align myself with a leader who has consistently demonstrated integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting the lives of those he serves.

    “In celebrating Akeredolu, we celebrate the essence of true leadership—a force that brings joy, progress, and a collective sense of accomplishment.

    In the realm of leadership, where challenges are battles fought on the terrain of progress, he stands tall as a fearless warrior, a commander who fearlessly faces adversity with unwavering courage.

    “From the corridors of justice to the expansive landscapes of governance, Akeredolu has donned the armor of determination and fearlessness. His leadership style reflects the spirit of a warrior, unyielding in the face of obstacles, and resolute in the pursuit of noble causes.

    In the realm of infrastructural development, education, and healthcare, Akeredolu’s fearless approach has led to transformative initiatives that have elevated our community. His bold vision has left an indelible mark, turning dreams into tangible realities that benefit us all.”

  • NHF 2023 annual collections exceeds N100b

    NHF 2023 annual collections exceeds N100b

    The National Housing Fund (NHF) annual collections for the year 2023 exceeded N100 billion.

    The NHF scheme was established by the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) to facilitate the continuous flow of low-cost funds for long-term investment in housing, through 2.5 per cent monthly deductions from employees earning a basic salary.

    The outgoing Managing Director (MD) FMBN, Mr Madu Hamman stated this in Abuja  as part of his handover note to the incoming MD Mr. Shehu Osidi.

    Hamman further advised the incoming MD and his management team to focus on the recapitalization of the bank because it presently operates with only 2.5 billion naira as its capital base.

    He said: “So it’s an enormous responsibility because we all know that what trickles into the organisation as the source of the fund that we manage is not enough. To even cater for would I say 1 per cent of the population. But everybody expects FMBN to be able to deliver a home to them.

    “You have to think deep on how you’re going to be able to satisfy the demands of the numerous contributors to the scheme through various innovative ways of raising finance, which should include going outside the NHF because if we continue to rely on the NHF that would not be achievable.

    “Unfortunately, is the issue of the recapitalization of the bank because currently, the bank operates with only 2.5 billion naira as the capital base.

    Read Also:Civilian JTF merges with NHFSS to fight insecurity

    “The highlight of our achievements in the last 22 months includes that for the first time, in 2023 the National Housing Fund (NHF) collection for the bank exceeded the N100 billion mark. This is the first time in the history of the bank that the annual collection exceeded N100 billion.”

    Incoming MD Shehu Osidi said he was aware that the opportunity given to him is onerous and comes with a lot of expectations as a former staff of the bank.

     “As someone who has once been an insider with many of my former colleagues here, I understand the importance of teamwork and  cooperation in achieving our organizational goals. Now more than ever, as we Navigate the complexities of our industry and strive to meet the evolving needs of our stakeholders, it is imperative that we stand together as a cohesive team.

    “I am committed to running an open, transparent and accountable administration in an atmosphere where teamwork, innovation, professionalism, excellence and staff wellbeing shall thrive.

    “I harbour no doubt about the availability and abundance of the talents we need to move this Bank forward. I therefore urge all of us to commit to rededicating ourselves to serve the Bank honestly and shun all negative attitudes. We have to and we must work as a team. This is the extension of my hand of fellowship to all of you.”

  • Kogi governorship poll: Court strikes out APP’s petition

    Kogi governorship poll: Court strikes out APP’s petition

    The Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja, yesterday, struck out the petition filed by the Action Peoples Party (APP) against the election victory of Governor Ahmed Ododo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the November 11 governorship poll in the state.

    The three-member panel chaired by Justice Ado Birnin–Kudu  struck out the petition following its withdrawal by counsel for APP, Daniel Edeachi.

    The application, seeking the withdrawal of the petition was not opposed by lawyer to Governor Ododo, Ibrahim Muhammed, SAN; counsel to APC, DC Denwigwe, SAN, and that of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Kanu Agabi, SAN.

    The tribunal, in a ruling upon review of the affidavit of no objection filed by lawyers to the respondents, consequently, struck out the APP petition.

    Hearing in the remaining three petitions continues.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that APP had, in the petition number: EPR/KG/GOV/02/2023 filed on Dec. 1, 2023, before the tribunal, challenged the declaration of Ododo as the validly elected governor of Kogi in the Nov. 11, 2023 governorship poll conducted by INEC.

    The party had sued Ododo, APC and INEC as 1st to 3rd respondents respectively.

    Read Also: Federal High Court plans vacation for March 22

    However, in its motion on notice dated and filed on Feb. 15, the party sought two orders, including an order granting leave to the petitioner/applicant to withdraw the Petition No: EPT/KG/GOV/01/2023 and an order striking out or dismissing the petition, having been withdrawn by the petitioner.

    Giving eight-ground of argument, APP said though it filed the petition to challenge Ododo’s victory, the party said upon the re-evaluation of the grounds and facts of the petition, it “is not reasonably convinced about the sustainability of the grounds of the petition as presently constituted before this honourable tribunal.

    According to the party, the withdrawal of the petition is based on the perceived unsustainability of the grounds of the petition and to avoid overburdening this honourable tribunal with numerous petitions.

    “The petitioner or its officers have not connived nor colluded with any party or person for the withdrawal of this petition but based on the overriding interest of justice.

    “The petitioner or its officer have not made or entered into any undertaking or agreement with any party or person for the withdrawal of this petition.

    “It will be in the interest of justice to grant leave to the petitioner to withdraw this petition and to strike out same in view of the withdrawal,” it averred.

  • Niger workers begin indefinite strike

    Niger workers begin indefinite strike

    The Niger State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared an indefinite strike action beginning today, following a deadlock in negotiations with the Niger State Government Committee.

    This, according to the union, is in response to the government’s failure to address their demands, as stated in a previous ultimatum letter.

    The information about the strike was contained in a statement by the Niger state NLC Chairman, Comrade Idrees Lafene and the state Chairman of TUC, Comrade Ibrahim Gana.

    The statement read that “effective from 8am on Wednesday, February 21, workers across Niger State will embark on the strike until their demands are comprehensively met.

    Read Also: Enugu doctors set for indefinite strike

    The civil servants have reiterated their willingness to negotiate but have highlighted specific conditions that need to be met for discussions to proceed.

    “We wish to formally inform the government that effective 8 am on Wednesday the 21st of February 2024, Niger State workers shall commence an indefinite strike action until our demands are comprehensively met.

    “Meanwhile, we wish to reiterate that our doors are open for negotiation subject to: conveyance of formal invitation, reversal of all appointments in dispute i.e Executive Directors Finance, Executive Directors Admin and Executive Directors Operations, Chairmen, Members and Permanent Commissioners of Local Government Service Commission and Civil Service Conmission and Directors General (DGs) of some agencies.

    “We also wish to stress that the idea of appointing Permanent Secretaries who are not eligible and within the service will no longer be tolerated by the Organized Labour. Accordingly, we call on the government to withdraw the recent appointment of a Vice Principal on seconded as a Permanent Secretary to allow for career progression from within”, the statement read.

    The NLC then called on the government to refrain from victimizing teachers and members from the education sector.

  • Breaking boundaries in Nigeria: The legacy of Nifemi Eitaio-Alao

    Breaking boundaries in Nigeria: The legacy of Nifemi Eitaio-Alao

    • By Tolulope Omodara

    In Kwara , Nigeria’s state of harmony, manoeuvring  life in the bustling city of Ilorin is Nifemi Temiloluwa Eitaio-Alao, affectionately known as “Omo Afonja’’ and “Flawless” during his university days.

     As he embarked on a journey that would see him rise to the pinnacle of entrepreneurial success, his academic pursuit in accounting at the University of Ilorin, followed by an MBA in Finance from Ladoke Akintola University, laid the foundation for his future endeavours.

    As a Fellow Member of The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Nifemi’s expertise in finance is undeniable. But his entrepreneurial spirit truly sets him apart from others. Married with beautiful kids, Nifemi is not just a family man but also a seasoned entrepreneur, currently serving as the CEO of Home & Art Designs.

    Under his leadership, Home & Art Designs has become a household name in the furniture industry. Nifemi’s passion for producing quality furniture and his desire for financial independence drove him to start his own business. His mission was to make luxury furniture accessible to all, regardless of their income bracket.

    Nifemi’s business acumen extends beyond furniture manufacturing. He is also the proud owner of Deutsche & Franklin Properties, a property development company, Henkel & Harris, a furniture hardware and accessories company, and Bulk & Cheese, a financial consulting and loan brokerage firm. With fifty-two employees, his companies specialize in a range of services from manufacturing furniture items for various spaces to property remodelling and space planning.

    The choice of Lagos, Nigeria, as the company’s base was strategic, given its status as a rapidly growing mega-city with a population of over 20 million people. Nifemi’s goal is to position his company as the leading furniture manufacturing entity in Nigeria, contributing to the economy by providing jobs and generating revenue through the manufacturing and sale of furniture products.

    Read Also: New Ardova plant to meet 50% of Nigeria’s LPG demand

    The booming construction and real estate industries in Nigeria, coupled with a growing middle class, presented a lucrative opportunity for Nifemi to venture into the furniture business. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to embrace sacrifice, determination, hard work, and tenacity, recognizing that failure is not the end but a valuable opportunity for growth and learning.

    Nifemi’s approach to dealing with fear and doubt is to face them head-on, build a supportive community, and maintain a positive mindset. His vision remains expanding his business by opening branches in three strategic locations in the country within the next five years.

    Outside of his business endeavours, Nifemi is a sociable and friendly person who enjoys spending time with family and friends, working out five days a week, and travelling. He is also a fitness enthusiast and loves to network and build solid partnerships. He celebrated his birthday on the 14th of February, when, as usual, he fete his family, friends, and business partners, marking another year of achievements and blessings.

    Nifemi Temiloluwa Eitaio-Alao’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and strategic planning. His success story and growth over the years serve as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that with the right mindset, grit, and dedication, one can achieve greatness in the world of business.

    • Omodara, a journalist, sent in this piece from Lagos.