The Nation Newspaper

Category: Northern Reports

  • Take flood alert serious, Kwara urges residents

    Take flood alert serious, Kwara urges residents

    Kwara State Government has urged residents to take seriously the various flood alerts, enlightenment and precautionary measures by the government and traditional institutions. 

    In a statement on Tuesday, Commissioner for Communication Bola Olukoju said various agencies of government have conducted several public enlightenment programmes on flooding and how to mitigate its impacts in areas that are prone to it. 

    “More of such programmes are still ongoing, including through radio stations and community leaders. The government has desilted many drainages and water passages within the metropolis while discouraging actions that may compound the threats of climate crisis and rise in water levels,” she said.

    Read Also: Flood: Foundation donates N20m cash, N10m research grant to Borno govt

    “In riverine communities like Patigi and Edu and elsewhere, our royal fathers have continued to engage people in areas that are prone to flooding to relocate to places long allocated for the purpose. We appeal to our people to follow this important advisory as the government does its part of supporting them in various ways.” 

    The statement said the state government will continue to lend its voice to calls for the dredging of the River Niger which is the permanent solution to the perennial flooding in that axis.

  • Dangote petrol will end Nigeria’s energy crisis, says group

    Dangote petrol will end Nigeria’s energy crisis, says group

    …Reiterates support for local refineries

    The Nigeria Youth Advocacy for Good Governance Initiative (NYAGGI) has described the loading of petroleum products from Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as a milestone for national security, economic growth, and development.

    The group said the lifting and distribution of locally refined Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) otherwise known as petrol would ease the scarcity burden and queues across the country.

    President of the group, Comrade Shuaibu Abdulkadir, and Secretary, Comrade Joseph Tsamya said this at a solidarity walk in Abuja on Monday where they hailed the collaboration between NNPCL and Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Company.

    It urged the management of NNPCL and Dangote Refinery Limited to sustain the partnership and collaboration in the interest of Nigeria’s economy, noting further that they are in full support of enhancing the capacity of local refineries as a way of boosting the economy and meeting both domestic and international market demands.

    The group said: “As NNPCL commences the lifting of refined products at the Dangote Refinery, we emphasise the importance of sustained collaboration between stakeholders to ensure seamless distribution across the country. Efficient logistics management, elimination of bureaucratic delays, and a long-term strategy for price stability are essential to guarantee that Nigerians continue to benefit from a stable fuel supply which will in turn encourage further investments and advance Nigeria’s economic development.

    “The swift deployment of over 300 NNPCL trucks to the Dangote Refinery as announced by Mr. Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, is a promising step towards alleviating the energy crisis faced by Nigerians. The successful loading of PMS by these trucks yesterday, Sunday, September 15, 2024, is a crucial and pragmatic step in Nigeria’s journey towards energy self-sufficiency.

    “This collaboration between NNPCL and Dangote Refinery marks a significant turning point for the Nigerian economy, which signals the dawn of a new era where public-private partnerships can address long-standing challenges in the petroleum sector and elsewhere. The synergy between both entities holds the potential to resolve persistent fuel scarcity, enhance fuel quality, and remove pressure on our forex reserves as well as the promotion of national security and economic growth.

    Read Also: NNPCL’s price template on Dangote petrol stirs controversy

    “Our position on the support for the growth of local refining capacity remains firm. We, therefore, urge the Federal Government to continue fostering an environment conducive to private and foreign investment, especially in the oil and gas sector. As the Dangote Refinery gears up for full operations, we expect the benefits of this collaboration to extend beyond fuel availability, positively impacting Nigeria’s overall economic landscape.”

    The group also commended President Bola Tinubu for “his visionary leadership in making this landmark collaboration a reality.”

    The group added: “As a youth group, we are impressed with Mr. President’s unwavering commitment and strategic foresight which has been central in Nigeria’s quest to achieve energy self-sufficiency and economic prosperity for all. The import of this strategic collaboration in light of the attendant consequences occasioned by the timely and just removal of fuel subsidy cannot be overemphasised.

    “On this auspicious occasion of the solidarity walk, we want to respectfully appeal to Mr. President to direct NNPCL to increase its crude oil supply to Dangote Refinery. As it stands, the refinery requires 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day to operate at full capacity but what NNPCL is offering is a meager 400,000 barrels. This is abysmally poor and should be improved upon to meet the local market for refined products in the country.

    “It is also our prayer that importers and Independent Marketers will prioritise Dangote Refinery products in the interest of national economic development. We therefore solicit the support and cooperation of all players in the sector towards achieving a lasting solution to our energy crisis.”

  • Africa’s consumer market to hit $2.5 trillion by 2030 – Minister

    Africa’s consumer market to hit $2.5 trillion by 2030 – Minister

    The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Doris Uzoka Anite, announced that Africa is the world’s fastest-growing consumer market, currently with over 1.2 billion consumers and expected to reach 1.7 billion by 2030.

    She highlighted that consumer expenditure in Africa was $1.4 trillion in 2015, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.9% since 2010.

    This figure is projected to rise to $2.1 trillion by 2025 and $2.5 trillion by 2030.

    Minister Anite made these remarks at the 2024 celebration of the 11th African Day of Standardization in Abuja, themed “Empowering Consumers through Standardization to Achieve Their Rights to Safe Quality Goods and Services.”

    She praised the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the African Organisation for Standardization (ARSO) for their commitment to raising awareness about standardization.

    Read Also: Talented  youngsters at Youth  Games excites Minister

    Represented by Permanent Secretary Amb. Nura Abba Rimi, the minister noted that African consumers face challenges such as misleading advertisements, poor service quality, counterfeit products, unsafe items, substandard services, lack of transparency, and safety hazards from overpriced goods.

    She said: “The implementation of standards across the African continent has changed the narrative, serving as a safety net for consumer rights. The Nigerian government has also implemented policies and programs to establish an enabling environment for consumers to thrive. Initiatives like consumer protection programs, have streamlined bureaucratic processes, eliminated bottlenecks, and improved the welfare of consumers.”

    Director General of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON), Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, emphasised that this year’s theme highlights the importance of consumer rights in Nigeria.

    He also underscored global efforts to raise awareness about consumer rights and the role of standardization in protecting these rights.

    Okeke noted that Nigeria remains a significant player in commerce and trade across Africa. He assured that through SON, Nigeria will continue to offer essential standardization support for both manufacturers and consumers.

    The support aims to advance the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) by facilitating the free flow of goods and services across the continent and enhancing global market positioning.

  • APRA expresses sympathy over devastating floods in Nigeria, Cameroon

    APRA expresses sympathy over devastating floods in Nigeria, Cameroon

    The African Public Relations Association (APRA), the umbrella body of public relations practitioners and professionals in Africa, has extended its deepest sympathies to the governments and people of Nigeria and Cameroon in light of the devastating floods affecting the two countries.  

    The incidents include the recent severe flooding in Borno State and other parts of Northeast Nigeria, as well as in Cameroon’s Far North Province, particularly the city of Yagoua, the capital of the Mayo Danay Department.

    APRA lamented over the tragic floods caused by the collapse of a dam in Maiduguri and by torrential rains in Mayo Danay. These floods have led to numerous fatalities, widespread displacement, and significant ecological disruption.

    The Association said it is deeply concerned about the impact of the floods on local markets and livelihoods in Maiduguri and surrounding areas, as well as the reported escape of wildlife, including dangerous reptiles, after the partial destruction of a zoo.

    The APRA’s message was conveyed in a statement by its Secretary General, Omoniyi Ibietan, on Tuesday, September 17.

    The statement read: “In Cameroon, over a hundred primary and secondary schools are affected as well as livestock, infrastructure and livelihoods.

    “In these incidents, we are faced with humanitarian crises and, therefore, really concerned about the recurrence, just a month after the collapse of the Arba’at Dam in Sudan that equally caused deaths and displacement of persons in many communities.

    “APRA is determined to work with all governments, institutions, and other stakeholders within and outside the continent to address communication management on climate change and other topical issues central to securing livelihoods, improving quality of life, and enhancing growth across sectors in Africa.

    “Just two months ago, APRA leaders met with other stakeholders within the Association to announce the institutionalization of committees to act on specific challenges of African people. One of these teams focuses on the African Union and Related Linkages.

    “Through that committee, APRA plans to leverage its observer status with the African Union and engage with appropriate councils of ministers to enhance communication management that will transform many sectors in Africa.”

    Read Also: APRA decries terror attack in Burkina Faso

    It further stated: “APRA is united behind the aims of the governments and peoples of Nigeria and Cameroon to find solutions to the humanitarian crises attending the disasters.

    “The central governments of these countries, the subnational governments in Borno State and Far North Province in Nigeria and Cameroon respectively, and other local and international stakeholders are commended on their responses to the crises to bring succour to those affected by the floods.

    “On behalf of all members, the Executive Council of APRA hereby sends sincere condolence to those who lost family members and friends, and wishes the displaced, the injured as well as those whose livelihoods have been affected a speedy recovery.”

  • Flood: Foundation donates N20m cash, N10m research grant to Borno govt

    Flood: Foundation donates N20m cash, N10m research grant to Borno govt

    The Thinklab Charity Foundation, a subsidiary of Thinklab Group Limited, has donated N20 million to the Borno state government to aid relief efforts for victims of the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri and Jere.

    Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, Founder and Chairman of the Foundation, who made the donation, also announced a N10 million grant for long-term research into Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) measures to mitigate future disasters.

    Represented by Dr. Abba Damuna, Director of Projects at Thinklab, Dr. Kori expressed his deep sympathy for the people of Borno State affected by the floods.

    He emphasised that the donation aims to significantly support the ongoing relief efforts, which are crucial as the disaster has left many families displaced and properties damaged.

    He said: “Dr. Kori, a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, has consistently demonstrated his commitment to giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives. This latest donation is a testament to his dedication to supporting those in need and his passion for positively impacting society.

    “We are deeply moved by the suffering of the people of Borno State and are committed to supporting the government’s efforts to provide relief to the affected communities.

    Read Also: Ezeribe Foundation partners GetBundi to train 20 Obowo youths in digital skills

    “Through Thinklab Charity Foundation, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by this disaster. Our long-term intervention of a ten million Naira research grant on ESG and Control measures will help identify sustainable solutions to mitigate the effects of future disasters.

    “Thinklab Charity Foundation has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including education, healthcare, and disaster relief. This donation is a testament to the company’s dedication to giving back to the community and positively impacting society,” he said. 

    Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, represented by the Committee on Flood Chairman, Baba Bukar Gujbawu, expressed gratitude to Dr. Kori and Thinklab Group Limited for their generosity.

    He said: “We are thankful for this kind gesture from Dr. Kori and Thinklab Group Limited. This donation will go a long way in supporting our relief efforts and providing succour to the victims of the flood disaster.”

  • CIPM clarifies allegations on virtual examination processes

    CIPM clarifies allegations on virtual examination processes

    The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria (CIPM) has addressed concerns raised about its recently concluded virtual exams, dismissing any claims of exploitation or misconduct as unfounded.

    In a statement signed by its president and chairman of the governing council, Mallam Ahmed Gobir, CIPM reassured candidates and stakeholders that no charges were imposed for rescheduling exams due to technical issues.

    “Our rescheduling process is transparent, fair, and free of charge for candidates affected by genuine technical difficulties,” the statement read.

    Gobir emphasised the institute’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and ensuring that all examinations are conducted fairly and transparently.

    He said that during the exam session on September 13, 2024, some candidates experienced technical challenges and to accommodate them, CIPM extended the test window from the original 12:00pm deadline to 6:00 PM, allowing those facing network difficulties to complete their exams.

    All affected candidates were promptly informed of the extension.

    Gobir also explained that issues such as accreditation failures or submission difficulties are common in virtual exams and may arise from factors like poor internet connectivity, incorrect computer specifications, or limited computer literacy.

    CIPM, in collaboration with its technical partners, has been proactive in providing support to candidates facing these challenges, ensuring they are rescheduled promptly and without additional cost.

    “The Institute’s examination process is guided by ISO 17024 standards, which mandate fairness, equity, and transparency in online exams,” Gobir stated.

    He also highlighted the role of the remote proctoring system used to monitor candidates throughout the examination process. This system ensures strict adherence to standards, with unaccredited systems unable to access exam questions.

    CIPM takes pride in being the first professional body in Nigeria to introduce virtual exams during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the institute has continued to adapt, innovate, and improve the virtual exam experience for candidates.

    Read Also: CIPM to install Gobir as 21st president, council chair

    During the September 2024 exam diet, 4,169 candidates were scheduled, and 97.12% successfully participated.

    Of those, 98.94% submitted their exams without issues, while those facing accreditation or technical problems were promptly rescheduled.

    CIPM remains committed to delivering high-quality professional examinations that meet global standards. As a pioneer in virtual examinations in Nigeria, the institute continues to set a benchmark, with other professional bodies following its lead.

  • CUSTECH begins admission with 50 programmes

    CUSTECH begins admission with 50 programmes

    The Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, has officially launched its admissions process for the 2024/2025 academic session, offering entry into all 50 programmes accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC).

    Registrar of CUSTECH, Mrs. Olufunke Hudson, said that the programmes, spread across the institution’s eight faculties, are now available on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) platform for prospective students to select.

    According to the registrar, candidates seeking admission into the university should have selected CUSTECH as university of first choice during the process of applying for admission while those wishing to change their current choice to CUSTECH must update their preferences on the JAMB portal.

    She said candidates can also select the desired programme/course for which he/she has the requisite UTME and O’Level subject combinations.

    On eligibility of candidates for post-UTME, the Registrar said candidates should ensure that they have the right UTME subject combination and at least five credits in relevant O’Level subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, as required for the programme selected.

    She further stated that candidates who scored a minimum of 140 in the UTME can apply, adding that candidates should ensure that their O’Level results are successfully uploaded on the JAMB portal for admissions.

    Read Also: NUC accredits all programmes of CUSTECH for take–off

    “Any candidate whose results are not uploaded will not be available on JAMB’s Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) for the admission to be processed,” she said.

    She urged interested candidates Who want to register for Post-UTME, to proceed to the university’s website, www.custech.edu.ng.

    “The Direct Entry candidate should also register and upload his/her results. Again, the candidate should ensure that he/she has the right UTME subject combination and at least five credits in relevant O’Level subjects, including English Language and Mathematics, as required for the programme selected. The registration attracts a fee of N2,000 (Two thousand Naira only),” she said.

    She said the deadline for change of institution to CUSTECH, and registration for post-UTME screening is on or before Friday, 11th October 2024.

    Faculties and programmes available at the Institution are: Faculty of Science: Applied Geophysics, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Geology, Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics and Statistics; Faculty of Computing and Informatics: Computer Science, Cyber-Security, Software Engineering, Information Technology, and Library and Information Science.

    Others are: Faculty of Engineering: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Mining Engineering, Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Marine Engineering, Petroleum and Gas Engineering, and Mechatronics Engineering; Faculty of Environmental Sciences: Architecture, Building, Urban and Regional Planning, Surveying and Geo-informatics and Geography. Faculty of Science and Technology Education: Biology Education, Chemistry Education, Computer Science Education, Geography Education, Mathematics Education and Physics Education and Technology/Technical Education.

    The university is also offering admission fof programmes in: Faculty of Management and Social Sciences: Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resource Management, Actuarial Science, Transport and Logistics Management and Economics; College of Medical Sciences/Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences: Anatomy, Physiology, Nursing Science, Medical Laboratory Science, Physiotherapy, and Radiography; and Faculty of Agriculture: Agriculture.”

  • FERMA, FHA to drive infrastructure development

    FERMA, FHA to drive infrastructure development

    The Managing Director/CEO, Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi has said the agency is open to partnering with the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) to improve housing projects by providing accessible and motorable roads nationwide.

    Agbasi said the collaboration was in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises the importance of both housing and road infrastructure.

    Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Managing Director/CEO, FHA, Oyetunde Ojo, to FERMA’s headquarters in Abuja, Agbasi stressed the critical role of road infrastructure in the success of housing schemes.

    In a statement by the Director Information and Public Relations, FERMA, Maryam Sanusi, Agbasi said: “Housing and road infrastructure are vital components of the Renewed Hope Agenda, and since the roads leading to these projects are federal roads, FERMA will ensure they are motorable.

    According to Agbasi , a team will be constituted to assess the scope of works, and we will incorporate it into the 2025 budget appropriation while seeking alternative funding sources.”

    He emphasised the need for FERMA to leverage the partnership to develop the agency’s land, expressing optimism for a long-term relationship that will enhance service delivery for all Nigerians.

    The MD of FHA explained that the partnership was key to fulfilling President Tinubu’s agenda of providing affordable housing to Nigerians.

    He appealed to FERMA to prioritise the rehabilitation of roads leading to key FHA estates, especially those in Gwarimpa and Lugbe in Abuja, as well as FESTAC in Lagos.

    Read Also: Bayelsa to partner FERMA on road rehabilitation

    “Accessible roads are critical for the success of housing projects, and FERMA’s support will enable FHA to focus on delivering affordable housing to Nigerians, including FERMA staff, who will be among the beneficiaries,” Ojo said.

    Ojo commended FERMA on some well maintained roads in Ekiti State and Estates in Gwarimpa and Kano States respectively.

    Meanwhile, Agbasi has inaugurated the FERMA Integrated Project Delivery Team (FIPDT), a strategic initiative designed to address the challenges of funding infrastructure projects through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

    The newly formed team will focus on commercialising FERMA’s idle physical assets, implementing a contract concession strategy, and diversifying income streams to ensure effective asset management.

    Agbasi said: “The Federal Government’s limited capacity to fully fund infrastructure projects has made PPPs an essential solution. By leveraging this approach, FERMA can bridge funding gaps, generate new revenue streams, and ensure the efficient delivery of critical infrastructure.”

    The ten-member team, coordinated by Mr. Nyihemba Luper Daniel, includes representatives from various disciplines, among which are Mr. Akwu Okolo from the Infrastructure Concessioning Regulatory Commission (ICRC).

    They will be responsible for driving the success of FERMA’s Maintain-Operate-Transfer (MOT) PPP program, positioning the agency for long-term sustainability.

    “Both the partnership with FHA and the inauguration of the FIPDT are expected to significantly enhance FERMA’s capacity to deliver on its mandate, ensuring that Nigerians benefit from well-maintained roads and affordable housing, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement added.

  • Fed govt pledges support to Borno flood victims

    Fed govt pledges support to Borno flood victims

    Minister of Environment, Malam Balarabe Lawal has said the Federal Government would support Borno State recovery and mitigation efforts following last week floods that wrecked havoc in the state.

    The minister made the pledge during a visit to the state where he was received by the Governor, Babagana Zulum

    He was accompanied on the visit by the Permanent Secretary Mahmoud Adam Kambari, Director Erosion, Flood and Coastal Zones Management, Director Pollution Control and Environmental Health, the Director of Press, the National Project Coordinator for ACReSAL, the National Project Coordinator for Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP); the Conservator – General of the National Park Service, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, and representatives from the Environmental Impact Assessment Department.

    Read Also: Borno flood: Correctional Service declares 281 inmates missing

    The government team led by the minister reviewed and assessed the extent of the damage caused by the flood and explored sustainable solutions to enhance flood resilience, erosion control, and environmental protection.

    In a statement, the minister said: “The team reviewed and assessed the extent of the damage caused by the flood and explored sustainable solutions to enhance flood resilience, erosion control, and environmental protection. Together, they discussed immediate interventions and long-term strategies to safeguard communities and restore the affected areas.

    “The minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that all necessary resources and technical support will be mobilised to assist Borno State in addressing the environmental challenges posed by the flood.”

  • ‘Matawalle turning tide against Banditry in North West’

    ‘Matawalle turning tide against Banditry in North West’

    The Northern Youth Forum (NYF) has praised progress made in the fight against banditry in the North West region, attributing the success to the leadership and dedication of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

    According to the Forum, Matawalle’s recent visit to the region has brought instant results, likening his intervention to a fast-acting remedy that brings swift relief.

    In a statement by its President, Alhaji Bagudu Mohammed Kudu, the Forum commended President Tinubu for appointing Matawalle, saying his presence has energized the troops and brought a new sense of purpose to the operation.

    With bandits fleeing in disarray, the Northern Youth Forum expressed pride and gratitude towards the Minister and the security forces, urging the government to sustain the momentum.

    Kudu said: “The Northern Youth Forum is thrilled to witness the remarkable progress in the war against banditry in the North West region, courtesy of the unwavering dedication and strategic leadership of Minister Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence.

    Read Also: Firms partner to drive jobs for Nigerian health professionals in US 

    “As President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s trusted lieutenant, Matawalle has brought a new era of hope and relief to the long-suffering people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and other affected areas.

    “His recent visit to the North West has been a game-changer, yielding instant results that are a testament to his unflinching commitment to ending the scourge of banditry. 

    “Maganin Kunama, in Hausa, refers to a fast-acting remedy that brings instant relief from the painful sting of a scorpion. Matawalle’s intervention is akin to this potent medicine, bringing swift and tangible results to the region.

    “We have always believed in the capabilities of our Armed Forces, and their bravery and sacrifice will never be in doubt. However, what was lacking was the political will to tackle the bandits head-on.

    “President Tinubu’s decision to send Matawalle to the theatre of operation has filled this gap, and the results are evident for all to see. Matawalle’s visit has been a masterstroke, and we urge the government to sustain this momentum.

    “The Minister’s presence has energized the troops, and his strategic leadership has brought a new sense of purpose to the operation. As the bandits, led by the notorious Turji Bello, flee in disarray, we cannot help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude towards Matawalle and the entire security apparatus.

    “This is a victory for the people, and we must ensure that it is sustained.”

    The Forum called on stakeholders to support the government’s efforts and praised Matawalle for his courage and commitment to ending banditry. ” The people of the North West are forever grateful, and we look forward to a future free from the shackles of banditry,” Kudu stated.