The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Gov. Otti awards ₦150m business grants to best 150 graduates of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic

    Gov. Otti awards ₦150m business grants to best 150 graduates of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic

    Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has demonstrated his commitment to empowering graduates and revitalizing education in the state by awarding ₦150 million in business grants to the top 150 graduates of the Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba (formerly Abia State Polytechnic). 

    Speaking at the 19th–21st combined convocation ceremony of the institution, Governor Otti emphasized his administration’s focus on producing graduates who can become employers of labor rather than job seekers. He announced a N1 million grant for each of the best 150 graduates—50 from each graduating set—urging recipients to submit business proposals by December 31, 2024, via the designated email address, oggh@abiastate.gov.ng. 

    The governor reiterated his dedication to education by revealing that 20% of the state’s 2025 budget would be allocated to the sector, matching the allocation in 2024. He attributed the ongoing improvements in the state’s public education institutions to this strategic funding. 

    “Our focus on education has resulted in the retrofitting of primary and secondary schools across the state, capacity development for over 2,000 teachers, and prompt payment of salaries and allowances to teaching and non-teaching staff,” he stated. “We’ve also addressed the outstanding salary arrears inherited from previous administrations.” 

    Governor Otti highlighted his government’s payment of N5 billion in accumulated counterpart funds to the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) earlier this year. He noted that UBEC had committed to releasing over N10 billion to further support education in the state. 

    Read Also: Otti justifies Labour Party’s abysmal outing at council polls

    He also assured attendees that the polytechnic’s internal road network would be reconstructed to improve the campus environment and disclosed that his administration had begun clearing salary arrears owed to the institution’s staff, including those no longer on the payroll. 

    The convocation marked a celebration of excellence, with Governor Otti affirming his vision for an education system that nurtures entrepreneurship and self-reliance.

    Explaining the decision to rename the institution after Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, Governor Otti described him as an icon of excellence and dignity, adding that the move was intended to inspire future generations of students. 

    The event saw the polytechnic’s Chairman of the Governing Council, Mr. Stanley Egege, pledge to continue advancing the institution’s technological and entrepreneurial focus, while the Rector, Dr. Christopher Okoro, highlighted achievements such as the introduction of new programs, including Artificial Intelligence, and progress toward accrediting 16 additional courses. 

    The ceremony celebrated 6,621 graduates, comprising 3,138 National Diploma recipients and 3,483 Higher National Diploma recipients. 

    Governor Otti, accompanied by state and federal lawmakers, commissioners, and other dignitaries, also inaugurated new projects at the institution, including a perimeter fence for the Osisioma Campus, the renovated Rector’s Lodge, and the reconstructed main gate.

  • Global Amnesty Watch exonerates military, dismisses AI report on alleged human rights abuse

    Global Amnesty Watch exonerates military, dismisses AI report on alleged human rights abuse

    The Global Amnesty Watch (GAW) has exonerated the Nigerian Army from allegations of human rights abuses as it dismisses reports from the allegations of human Amnesty International.

    While addressing journalists on Monday in Abuja, the Global Amnesty Watch praised the Nigerian military for their sacrifices and commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty.

    In his address, The Country Rep/President of Nigeria Office, Dr. Lion Adebayo Ogorry, said the Nigerian military has operated in line with international best practices in their war against insurgency.

    The organisation also commended the Federal Government for its proactive approach to addressing allegations of misconduct and its commitment to transparency and accountability.

    Adebayo further stated that the allegations against the Nigerian military represent the actions of a minority and do not define the entirety of the Armed Forces.

    The organisation emphasised the importance of recognising the context in which the military operates, facing an enemy that does not adhere to conventional warfare rules.

    In contrast, the Global Amnesty Watch dismissed Amnesty International’s report as a propagation of falsehood and lies aimed at intimidating Nigeria.

    The body accused Amnesty International of exaggerating and inflating the numbers of recorded victims to elicit public sympathy and discredit the current administration.

    Read Also: Global Amnesty Watch felicitates with the Nigerian media on World Press Day

    “While it is understandable that the discussed allegations against the military and police are very sensitive, we believe that the emphasis on it should not overshadow the broader context of our security Forces’ sacrifice and services to the nation,” Adebayo said. 

    “We mustn’t forget that our armed forces remain the bedrock of national security, and their integrity is a responsibility worthy of preservation. The government’s commitment to the course of justice, transparency, and accountability is a step in the right direction.

    “By addressing these concerns with the seriousness they deserve, then it is obvious we won’t only be rebuilding the public trust, but we’ll be strengthening the nation’s unity.

    “The path to peace and justice is a rough one with a beautiful destination. It requires our collective effort, strong commitment, and a firm belief in the principles of humanity and accountability. We strongly believe that together, we can ensure that Nigeria emerges stronger, more united, and become a great beacon of Justice .”

  • Imo Govt trains 2,700 youths on proper toilet use

    Imo Govt trains 2,700 youths on proper toilet use

    …decries water facilities theft

    As part of the Clean Nigeria Campaign (CNC), the Imo State government has trained over 2,700 youths in 27 local government areas on the importance of using toilets.

    This initiative, aimed at promoting good hygiene practices, has empowered Imo youths to become Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) ambassadors within their communities.

    The Commissioner for Water Resources, Ozo Obinna Ogwuegbu who disclosed this during a chat in Owerri, said the training is part of the state government’s efforts to improve public health and sanitation.

    “We are committed to ensuring that every community in Imo State has access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities,” the Commissioner stated.

    The state government also reactivated the water supply and sanitation system at the Imo State Secretariat Complex, which had been abandoned since 2013. This move, he said, has increased civil servants’ and official holders’ access to safely managed water.

    He said in 2021, the government carried out a massive rehabilitation of the Otamiri Headworks, a key surface water source for the state.

    “The Otamiri Waterworks now has a state-of-the-art physiochemical and bacteriology laboratory for water analysis, testing, and treatment.

    “The Hope Uzodimma ‘s administration also constructed over 15 sanitation facilities across three zones of Imo State in 2021, improving public health and reducing open defecation. Additionally, the government built over 75 solar-powered water boreholes in Owerri North, Owerri West, and Ngor-Okpala LGAs, enhancing rural communities’ access to water.

    Read Also: Imo to tackle health risks of sun-exposed plastic drinks

    “The state government is currently revitalizing numerous rural water schemes, including the restoration of the water schemes at Imo State University, Orji, Oleme-Amuifeke, Eluama Orlu, Amiri, Ubomiri, Dikenafai, Uguta, and Eke Ngwuru.”

    According to the Commissioner for Water Resources, the state government is committed to sustaining progress and ensuring impacts in the WASH sector.

    “We’re not resting on our oars,” the Commissioner said. “We have ambitious but realistic plans for the state’s water, sanitation, and hygiene, and we’re working tirelessly to achieve these goals.”

    The Commissioner, however, lamented the vandalism of water facilities in rural communities, which has hindered the effective delivery of water services. “We appeal to the public to report any incidents of vandalism to the authorities, regretting that the locals hired to watch over the facilities are the ones stealing equipment.”

  • Scrap dealers association sacks excos, inaugurates caretaker committee

    Scrap dealers association sacks excos, inaugurates caretaker committee

    The National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) has sacked its excos and inaugurated a caretaker committee.

    The decision was taken at its National Executive Council Meeting convened by the Founding Fathers and Board of Trustees (BOT) on Saturday at NBC House, 33 Lusaka Street, FCT, Abuja.

    Stakeholders and State Executives from the 36 states of the federation attended the meeting.

    A communique by Chairman, Caretaker Committee Representative, Board of Trustees, Representative, Founding Fathers said that deliberations including the appointment of caretaker committee, Withdrawal of Court Cases, Reversion to the Old Constitution and Strengthened Fight Against Vandalism were arrive at during the meeting.

    The communiqué reads: “Recognising the expiration of the tenure of the current EXCO led by John Obeh and the resulting leadership vacuum, a motion was moved and adopted to nominate and inaugurate a 13-member Caretaker Committee.

    “The committee, with two members drawn from each of the six geopolitical zones, will steer the affairs of the Union for three months and organize a National Delegate Conference (NDC) to hold elections.

    “All warring factions and groups with ongoing court cases were directed and agreed to withdraw such cases to ensure a peaceful and smooth NDC.

    Read Also: NiMet, AWWDI partner to deliver weather information to disabled community 

    “Due to the numerous anomalies in the newly revised constitution, it was resolved that the Union will revert to the old constitution pending further review after the election.

    “The Union reaffirmed its commitment to combat vandalism across all states and local governments. All state chairmen agreed to take this directive down to the local government level with the slogan “No to Vandalism.”

    “Elimination of Illegal Ticketing and Extortion: The Union unanimously resolved to implement an “Operation Flush Out” against illegal ticketing and extortion on roads nationwide.

    However, the new Caretaker Committee, in collaboration with the BOT and Founding Fathers, will review and update the membership of the BOT and Founding Fathers to align with the Union’s goals.

    The caretaker committee was inaugurated under the leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi Soja from Lagos; Ndubusi Chibuike – S/E; Alh Abdulazeez folormunso S/W; Alh Salisu Haruna Kano N/E; Alh Yusuf Umar N/C; Olalekan Adebakin S/W; Hashimu Maigemu N/C; Ogugua kelechi Okwidiri S/E; Mohammad sani N/E; Ahmad Auwal Esq N/W; Uwerri Benson Iyang S/S; Aliyu Salmanu N/C; Rufus GM Agubama S/S.

    BoT members present at the event are Alh Lateef sulaiman BOT Chairman; Alh Akilu Hassan Director NAK General merchant sardaunan funtua; Alh Fatai Ogunwale; Dr Mubarak liman Deputy national president; Comrade Aminu Hassan Soja Northern Region President; Edward ila; Stephen Ogbonuwana coordinating secretary; Honourable UKO Iwaudofia; Alh Shehu SPC plastic.

  • Why Ibadan youths must shun violence, other vices, by Mogaji Oladejo

    Why Ibadan youths must shun violence, other vices, by Mogaji Oladejo

    Youths in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, have been urged to steer clear of social vices that could tarnish their family’s reputation. 

    Chief Oladejo Moruf Rufai, newly crowned Mogaji of the Omotara Okugbaja family, made this call during his coronation ceremony at Baale Oyesile Olugbode’s palace in Ibadan.

    The event, attended by notable figures including Chief Ojeniyi Akintomide Okugbaja, Mogaji Olugbode, and Chief Teslim Olugbode, marked the formal installation of Rufai as Mogaji by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin, on October 14, 2024.

    During his address, Rufai urged the city’s youth to reject violence, drug abuse, thuggery, and other harmful behaviors that could bring shame to their families. 

    He also called on parents to provide their children with the support needed to compete on a global scale.

    Rufai appealed to fellow family members to join forces with him to uplift the Omotara family and continue its legacy of respect and integrity.

    “I wish to thank God Almighty, the beginning and the end of everything for giving us the grace to witness this day. Today is another day in the history of our family, the day reserved for the celebration of the coronation of the Mogaji you all supported and endorsed. 

    “I wish to thank all our fathers and mothers who are present here and those who are unavoidably absent due to one reason or the other. I will extend my greetings to all my brothers and sisters who are here and those who are not here at the moment, my kinsmen who came from far and near to witness this occasion, I thank you all. 

    Read Also: Olubadan to attend Askari Fuji’slaunch of new single, Ibadan

    “I will also use this opportunity to pray to God Almighty to grant the souls of our kinsmen, the departed souls within our family who have passed on to the glory, eternal rest. May their souls continue to rest in perfect peace, Amen. 

    “The journey to my installation as Mogaji of Omotara family by our father, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Akinloye Olakulehin on Monday 14th October, 2024, started when you all endorsed and appointed me as your Mogaji in a selection process conducted at the front of our family house on Sunday, 1st September, 2024. 

    “As your Mogaji, I want to assure you that all the entitlements due for each person would be given to him or her without fear or favour. I am here to promote peace and tranquility in the family. I want to appeal to other contestants and other members of the family to join hands with me in order to execute the projects I have at hand in order to lift up our family, our area and Ibadan in general. 

    “My plans are to improve the standard of our family, our compound and Ibadan in all areas of human endeavors. I want to appeal to our kinsmen to continue to train their children in God’s ways. Those who are schooling should be given appropriate attention in order for them to excel. Those who are learning trade or vocation should also be supported and given the appropriate support to be an independent persons. No knowledge is a waste. I will appeal to you to take the training of our children seriously because they are the future of our family. 

    “We should endeavor to give our children all the necessary support they need in order to compete with their colleagues across the globe and I pray that God Almighty will give us the wealth to do so. I want to appeal to our youths to shun violence, drug abuse, thuggery and other social vices that can put their names and names of the family in disrepute.

    “Lastly, I want to appeal to all and sundry to join hands with me to bring the name of our family on the world map for positive things”. 

  • Anambra stakeholders unite to improve maternal, child healthcare at grassroots

    Anambra stakeholders unite to improve maternal, child healthcare at grassroots

    Stakeholders in Anambra State have resolved to address challenges in maternal and child healthcare delivery at the grassroots through enhanced collaboration with health practitioners at Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs). Their goal is to ensure improved access to healthcare for vulnerable groups, particularly women and children.

    The consensus was reached during a two-day capacity-strengthening workshop held at the Njikoka Local Government Area headquarters in Abagana. The event brought together stakeholders from across the state.

    Pharmacist Chisom Uchem, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA), urged officers across the state’s 21 LGAs to intensify efforts in delivering quality healthcare. She emphasized the importance of partnerships to rebuild trust and increase participation in health programmes such as immunisation.

    The workshop was organised under the Strengthen Public Accountability for Results and Knowledge (SPARK II) project, supported by the International Budget Partnership (IBP) and implemented by Justice Development and Peace Caritas (JDPC) Nnewi, Community Empowerment Network (COMEN), and Civil Rights Concern (CRC), in collaboration with ASPHCDA.

    Read Also: Anambra’s revenue collectors

    Rev. Fr. Ben Okolo, Director of JDPC, Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, highlighted Anambra State’s potential to become a healthcare model for Nigeria through effective collaboration, capacity building, and community ownership of healthcare initiatives.

    “The role of capacity building in this regard is to equip you with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to navigate complex public finance management issues. 

    These include budget tracking, proper fund retirement, and ensuring that healthcare services are delivered efficiently and equitably,” he stated

    Onyekachi Ololo, said: “Maternal and Child Healthcare is the entry point for the SPARK II project, hence efforts must be put together by all stakeholders to ensure the PHCs serve this category of people wearing the gender and Intersectionality lenses. 

    The Director, Community Healthcare, Awka South LGA, Dr Okeke Ngozi, and Chief Godwin Eze of Community Empowerment Network, expressed confidence that the programme would help WDCs and OICs to support the government in achieving it’s various health programmes at the grassroots for health and wellbeing of all.

  • Massive boost for Rivers Igbo’s quest for Ohaneze President-General seat

    Massive boost for Rivers Igbo’s quest for Ohaneze President-General seat

    The Rivers State Igbos’ aspiration to produce the next President-General of Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo, on January 10, 2025 has received a major boost with the endorsement of key stakeholders who insist on upholding the constitution. 

    Notable traditional rulers and members of Ime Obi Ohanaeze, including ex-Secretary Generals from Anambra, Enugu, Delta, and Ebonyi, have all lined up to confirm that Rivers will be given its constitutional right in accordance with Article 11 of Ohanaeze’s constitution, which ensures that the position of President-General is rotated amongst the seven member States of Abia, Enugu, Anambra, Ebonyi, Imo, Igbo-speaking areas of Rivers and Delta.

    According to former Deputy Secretary-General  of Ohanaeze, Chief Uche Okwukwu: “There should be an intellectual discourse, a robust one, to first make it clear, and after that, a communique will be issued , establishing the right of Rivers Igbo to produce the next President-General.”

    The call for Rivers State to produce the next President-General follows the demise of Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyawu, the the 11th President-General of Ohanaeze NdiIgbo, on July 25, 2024 at 81.

    In a related development, the Ijaw National Congress (INC)  has reacted to the communique by the convener of Ogbakor Ndi-Igbo na Rivers State, Livingstone Wechie. 

     Uechie had issued a communique from a stakeholders meeting held on Monday 18th November 2024 in Port Harcourt, in which he announced the preparedness of Rivers Ndi-Igbo to produce the President-General. 

     INC in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha warned the Ohanaeze Ndi-Igbo to steer clear of Rivers State. 

    The group declared that the Ijaws believe in one Nigeria but stated that, if the need arises to part, the Ijaws will not cede to any ethnic group, whether the Ohanaeze Ndigbo or the Afenifere, but will remain on their own.

    He explained that the claim by the Igbo apex group that the entire Rivers State is part and parcel of Igbo land, making the state one of the statutory member states of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, is false.

    The INC spokesman noted that the Ijaw remain a majority ethnic group in Rivers State, with 10 local government areas.

    Read Also: Rivers pushes for Ohaneze Ndi-Igbo leadership, begins consultations

    However, reacting to INC’s statement, the convener of Ọgbakọr Ndigbo na Rivers, Livingstone Wechie said: “We believe the Ijaw National Congress when they say their intent is to foster peaceful coexistence, and we share the same commitment to harmony. However, we must respectfully clarify that our demand for the presidency of Ohanaeze Ndigbo is not a matter that concerns the Ijaw nation. 

    “Ndigbo have no interest in encroaching on territories belonging to other groups. We have been neighbours and friends to the ijaw for centuries. They know our lands and our people as well as we know their lands and their people. Anyone who seeks to blur these clear lines is either uninformed or engaged in mischief.”

    “We must always remember that Rivers State is a multicultural and multi-ethnic state, with various indigenous groups, distinct identities and kindred ties. Our historical and biological connections run deep and are not barriers to peaceful co-existence, but rather propellants for the practise of mutual respect. 

    “Ultimately our efforts will ensure inclusivity and shared prosperity among all ethnic nationalities in Rivers State and beyond. We believe there is indeed a brighter future for all Nigerians when we practise  restraint, mutual respect and tolerance.”

  • Stakeholders seek improved focus on non-oil exports

    Stakeholders seek improved focus on non-oil exports

    Stakeholders in the manufacturing sector have advocated for an improved focus on non-oil exports to transform the sector into the nation’s primary driver of economic growth and revitalise the nation’s overall economy.

    The stakeholders spoke at the ongoing 36th Annual General Meeting of the the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Anambra/Ebonyi/Enugu chapter in Enugu with the theme: “Revitalising Nigeria’s economy through manufacturing and non-oil export”.

    Speaking at the event, the chairman of the association, Lady Ada Chukwudozie, expressed belief that while global landscape is shifting rapidly, divestments into the non-oil sector has the capacity to improve the nation’s foreign exchange earnings and save the economy.

    She said: “Globally, we live in a world where change is the only thing constant. The global landscape is shifting rapidly, from globalization to a new era of complexity. The world is yet to recover from the COVID pandemic shocks and the disruption of geopolitical tensions, the Russia-Ukrainian War, the Israeli-Hamas war, proxy wars driven by politics, but behind the politics is commercial interest, climate change, advancements in technology, and resultant macroeconomic inflationary consequences.

    “The business environment is increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA), driven by geopolitical tensions, technological disruptions, and evolving customer demands.

    “Here in Nigeria, our economy has depended heavily on crude oil export for its foreign exchange earnings. With dwindling production of crude oil largely due to insecurity and other factors, the foreign reserve has not been able to sustain the pressure on the dollar due to trade deficits and the minting of more money through ways and means, which has impacted the inflation rate.

    Read Also: No new PMS price has been released by PH refinery – PETROAN 

    “However, the recent deregulation of the energy sector has hit an all-time high, with high interest rates in response to the high MPR rates, as the government keeps trying to adjust the monetary policies to control inflation. This has resulted in the currency being devalued. These challenges fully justify divestments into manufacturing-driven non-oil exports initiatives, especially for businesses in the manufacturing sector,” she said.

    She called on manufacturers and organizations to be agile, resilient, and forward-thinking, adapt and innovate to stay ahead, adding that they must be willing to challenge assumptions, experiment with new ideas, and invest in emerging technologies.

    The Managing Director of Keystone Bank, Hassan Imam, called for collaboration between the government, manufacturers, and financial institutions to improve the situation. 

    “Through initiatives such as targeted government policies, better access to finance, and infrastructure improvements, we can create an environment conducive for growth in manufacturing,” he said.

    The chairman of the occasion and Lagos-based businessman, Chief Martin Agbaso, advised manufacturers to add more value by exporting finished products of rushing to export only raw materials. 

  • LP crisis: Abure, Obi allegedly plot Otti’s expulsion

    LP crisis: Abure, Obi allegedly plot Otti’s expulsion

    In a new twist to the ongoing crisis within the Labour Party, the embattled National Chairman, Julius Abure and former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have reportedly joined forces to orchestrate the removal of Abia Governor Alex Oti from the party.

    The plot, allegedly driven by a series of accusations levelled against the Governor, comes amid mounting internal conflicts threatening to fracture the already divided party.

    Sources close to the Abure-led faction confirmed this latest maneuver is rooted in suspicions that Gov Oti is working with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and lending his support to President Bola Tinubu, ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    “It is reported that the core  the dispute centers around an allegation that Gov. Oti, who is the only Labour Party Governor in Nigeria, recently made a controversial statement suggesting that, in his bid for a second term, it would be only fair to support President Tinubu’s aspiration for a second tenure.

    “This remark alleged to have made by Gov. Oti during a private visit to President Tinubu last week, has reportedly set off alarm bells within the Labour Party leadership, which perceives such sentiments as a betrayal of the party’s ideals and an overt attempt to align with the ruling APC.

    “In response, Abure and Obi, both of whom are reportedly displeased by Oti’s stance, are said to have united in an effort to expel him from the party in order to preserve its integrity and to prevent a potential defection,” the sources added.

    The duo was said to have also accused Oti of using the formation of the Labour National Caretaker Committee as a gimmick to influence Obi to support the removal of Abure from office.

    Sources also stated that Peter Obi is expected to meet with the Abure led National Working Committee (NWC) sometimes within the week to finalise plans to rid the party of Oti.

    The meeting, which is expected to be high-stakes, will likely chart the next course of action, including formalising plans to electronically register 20million Labour Party members and file charges of anti-party activities against the Governor.

    This clandestine plot, however, appears to be part of a broader strategy to consolidate control over the party, as Abure and Obi are both keen to ensure that Oti’s alleged ties to the APC do not further jeopardize Labour Party’s future prospects.

     Interestingly, Abure had always maintained a public posture that suggests he was in disagreements with Obi. However, facts have emerged he has been working secretly with Obi underground to relaunch the crisis ridden Labour Party for 2027 elections.

    Read Also: LP crisis: Abure blasts Otti for calling for fresh national convention

    Although, Gov. Oti, on his part, has yet to publicly address the accusations levelled against him. Sources within his camp suggest that he remains resolute in his stance, emphasising that his comments about supporting President Tinubu for a second term were made in the interest of his own political future.

    As a Governor seeking re-election, Oti reportedly believes that securing the support of the current administration is a pragmatic step to ensure his political survival, especially given the challenges he face. However, this political calculus has not gone down well with the leadership of the Labour Party, which views such gestures as a direct threat to its ideological foundation.

    As the political drama unfolds, the question remains: will Gov. Oti be able to weather the storm and retain his position as the only Labour Party Governor in Nigeria or will Abure and Obi succeed in orchestrating his ouster?

    The coming days will be critical, and all eyes are now on the Labour Party’s National Working Committee and its leadership to see how they handle this explosive crisis.

  • CAC Ambassador Nwabufo urges National Assembly to ban GMO seeds in Nigeria

    CAC Ambassador Nwabufo urges National Assembly to ban GMO seeds in Nigeria

    Renowned brand manager and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) ambassador, Michael Nwabufo, has called on the National Assembly to reject the introduction of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) foods in Nigeria. 

    A statement issued in Lagos on Tuesday, Nwabufo, popularly known as Mike Premium, made the call when he appeared before the House of Representatives on Friday.

    He addressed concerns over a video he produced highlighting the potential dangers of GMO foods. 

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that there have been controversies around the health safety of GMO plants being promoted by American billionaire and philanthropist, Bill Gates.

    Nwabufo urged lawmakers to take decisive action to safeguard the health of Nigerians and protect the nation’s sovereignty from external influences.

    “I stand here today as a patriot and a servant of the people, committed to building a healthier and more self-reliant Nigeria.

    “I believe in the resilience of this National Assembly to make decisions that prioritise the welfare of Nigerians.

    “I am glad that the House of Representatives is standing by us to kick against Genetically Modified Organisms called GMO foods,” Nwabufo said.

    He urged the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari to rescind his support for GMO foods in the country.

    According to him, the minister cannot make decisions of such magnitude that bother Nigerian wellbeing without recourse to the people and their representatives in the parliaments.

     Nwabufo called on the minister to engage in thorough scientific and evidence-based research in certified laboratories to check the safety of GMO foods in Nigeria, before giving in to the proponents and defending plants.

    According to him, some farmers have been brainwashed in Nigeria about GMO seeds.

    He said that such people and farmers in their defence of GMO seeds, were saying “It is better to eat GMO foods and die than not to see food to eat”.

    Nwabufo said that a lot of Nigerians seemed to be in the dark when it comes to food security.

    He added: “Whoever controls our food controls our life forget every other thing and focus, this danger is looming!

    “I believe the NASS knows what to do with the information we have brought, and I believe in your capacity to end this. I want to hit the nail on the head, I believe none of us wanted to die young.”

    According to him, for example, ‘Tella maize’ created in laboratories, has been banned in several countries, including Russia, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovenia, and some parts of the UK, such as Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

    He said that some of these nations had taken such steps due to some concerns.

    Nwabufo said that such concerns included the fact that “if you plant these seeds in our soil you won’t be able to replant it again, but depend on Bill Gates to always supply nations with his lab-made seeds instead of the one created by God.”

    Nwabufo, who noted that GMOs had health risks, and environmental impact among others, called on the NASS to assess and regulate them through conducting thorough research and risk assessments before approving their widespread use in Nigeria.

    He called for the promotion of transparency in healthcare, investment in local solutions and safeguarding of the nation’s biodiversity

    “There are potential dangers to human health, including reduced lifespan and vulnerability to diseases.

    “GMOs can harm ecosystems, disrupt biodiversity, and threaten traditional farming practices because their long-term safety remains unproven.

    “There is the need to ensure that all healthcare interventions are subjected to rigorous safety checks.

    “We must support the development of indigenous agricultural and medicinal practices to reduce reliance on foreign entities.

    “We must protect Nigeria’s rich agricultural heritage and natural ecosystems.

    “Indigenous crops, which are a critical part of our heritage, are at risk of being overshadowed by lab-engineered alternatives,” Nwabufo said.

    Read Also: President Tinubu’s decisive leadership on security, by Fredrick Nwabufo

    According to him, in countries like India and even parts of America, there have been reports linking GMO usage to harmful effects on both people and the environment.

    “Bill Gates is a billionaire in dollars why does he think he can make more money investing in a country like Nigeria at this time if he does not have an ulterior Motive?

    “He has spent millions of dollars pushing this agenda I personally tag population control,” Nwabufo said.

    Expressing concerns about Bill Gates’ Interventions in Nigeria’s Healthcare, the CAC ambassador said that the nation must critically examine the foundation’s involvement.

    He said: “There have been cases where vaccines, such as the polio vaccine, caused unintended harm instead of saving lives.

    “While modern medicine has its place, we must ensure transparency and safety in any foreign interventions.

    “Our ancestors lived long, healthy lives relying on natural remedies, herbs, and clean water.

    “I am not advocating for a complete rejection of modern science, but I believe in preserving and modernising our traditional practices to build a sustainable and healthy future for Nigeria.”