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Tag: FG

  • Declare DISCOs as non-state actors, Reps urge FG

    Declare DISCOs as non-state actors, Reps urge FG

    The House of Representatives has urged the federal government through the Ministry of Power to declare Distribution Companies (DISCOs) in Nigeria as non-state actors.

    It urged that immediate measures be taken to address “their reckless actions, threatening the nation’s economy.”

    The House also urged the DISCOs to undergo recapitalization of not less than 500 billion Naira.

    It said only those with the required financial muzzles that can provide maximum satisfaction to consumers should be allowed to continue to operate.

    The House mandated the Committee on Power to investigate the activities of the DISCOs with the intent of holding them accountable and safeguarding consumer rights.

    The Committee is also to examine the implementation of the stricter regulations governing the operations of DISCOs, to ensure transparency and fairness in dealings with Consumers;

    These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion titled, “Need to Address to Activities of Distribution Companies (DISCOS) in Nigeria” moved by Hon. Ibrahim Ayokunle Isiaka.

    The House noted that the activities of Distribution Companies (DISCOS) in the country and their recent actions are posing a threat to the economic stability and welfare of the Nigerian populace.

    It also noted that Nigerian consumers paid for electricity meter installation, but DISCOs are demanding additional payments for the replacement of these metres under dubious pretences, undermining consumer trust and exacerbating financial burdens.

    The House worried that Consumers are being coerced into paying for meters that they have earlier financed, causing financial strain on households and businesses already facing economic challenges.

    It also worried about the sabotage of economic development by Discos, where essential services are used against citizens intended to serve thereby, stifling growth and development.

    Read Also: Reps direct CBN, finance ministry to refund deduction from Shippers Council’s account

    The House was concerned that despite constant regulatory oversight and demand for accountability by the Committee on Power from these companies, DISCOs remained recalcitrant in operating with impunity and disregard for consumer rights

    It recognised that the DISCOs’ actions pose a significant threat to Nigeria’s economic stability and the welfare of citizens.

    The House said it was cognizant of the need to stand against injustices and prioritises constituents’ needs and rights.

  • Osun: FG flags-off N12 bn road construction after 40 years

    Osun: FG flags-off N12 bn road construction after 40 years

    The Federal Government on Wednesday flagged-off a N12 billion road construction in Eti-Oni, Atakumosa East Local Government Area of Osun after 40 years.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the construction of the 56 Kilometer road, which was to be supervised by the Federal Ministry of Works, was greeted with jubilation by residents of the town.

    Mr David Umah, the Minister of Works, said that the roads were three in number and would be executed in phases to ensure early completion within 12 months.

    The minister was represented by Mr Oluseyi Adedipe, the Acting Controller of Works, Osun field office.

    Umahi said the road project, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, would open up economically viable regions to enable communities to move their farm produce with ease to commercial centres.

    The minister said that the road, after completion, would boost the economy of Eti-Oni town, which was a major cocoa producer in the state.

    He, however, urged the contractors to follow the ministry’s standard and specification in the construction of the roads.

    Umahi said that this was necessary to ensure that there was value for tax payers’ money spent on the road projects.

    Also, Oba Dokun Thompson, the Oloni of Eti-Oni, said that the road, which had been abandoned for 40 years, had been a source of worry for the residents.

    Thompson, who could not hide his joy,  said after completion, the road would open up the town and showcase the cocoa production and other agricultural produce of the town.

    “The joy, the happiness is tremendous and we cannot explain it because this road has been neglected for more than 40 years.

    “When you have a fertile land but without access, it is like a cemetery and that is how this place looks like before, but it is coming back to life.

    “What we are witnessing today is a renewed hope for the future generations and I believe with this happening now, many youths will be incentivised to be able to come into agriculture”, he said.

    Thompson appreciated Tinubu for approving the construction of the road, adding that it was a perfect gift for the town as it celebrates its cocoa festival

    Read Also: Adeleke approves N75,000 minimum wage for Osun workers

    “We are grateful to Mr President for this gesture. It is not only a gesture but also a gift to us, people of Atakumosa East, Eti-Oni and the entire Osun state.

    “If the president can remember this community, which is very rural, it means that other areas that are even more in the open will benefit more in this renewed hope season,” he said.

    A residents of the town, Chief Musibau Gbadamosi, said that the community was blessed with cocoa and other agricultural produce, and the road would boost the economic activities in the town.

    He appreciated the president for the gesture, adding that they would continue to support his administration.

    (NAN)

  • JUST IN: FG sacks Benue University of Health’s pro-chancellor over alleged misconduct

    JUST IN: FG sacks Benue University of Health’s pro-chancellor over alleged misconduct

    The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced on Wednesday, November 20, the removal of Ohieku Salami from his position as pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council of the Federal University of Health Sciences in Otukpo, Benue State. 

    The decision was made due to actions considered “unbecoming of his office” and violations of established procedures. 

    A statement released by the Director of Press for the Federal Ministry of Education, Folashade Boriowo, outlined several unprofessional actions taken by Salami, including the suspension of the Vice-Chancellor without following the proper procedures.

    The statement revealed that despite the ministry’s intervention and formal directives to reverse the unlawful suspension, Salami refused to comply. Instead, he displayed “abusive and threatening behavior” towards the ministry’s directors, including the Permanent Secretary.

    Read Also: FG committed to addressing challenges in justice system, says AGF Fagbemi

    Dr. Alausa emphasised that such conduct undermines the ministry’s supervisory authority over the university and threatens the stability and governance of the institution.

    “In line with this decision, the minister has requested the appointment of a new Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council for the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, to restore proper governance and ensure the university operates in accordance with the principles of law, due process, and accountability,” the statement added.

  • Judicial stakeholders hail FG over improved welfare, retirement age extension for judges

    Judicial stakeholders hail FG over improved welfare, retirement age extension for judges

    Judicial stakeholders have commended the President Bola Tinubu-Federal Government for improving the welfare of judges and extending their retirement age.

    The stakeholders, under the auspices of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), said the decisions were necessary to enhance the effectiveness of the nation’s justice delivery system.

    Speaking in Abuja, CSLS’ president, Professor Yemi Akinseye-George (SAN) said: “We commend the Federal Government for improving the remuneration of Judicial officers and for extending the retirement age of high court judges.

    “However, these improvements must be matched with closer monitoring and evaluation of the work of judges.

    “We urge the oversight body of the judiciary, the National Judicial Council (NJC) to issue new guidelines for assessing the productivity of judicial officers. Nigerians deserve improvements in the speed and quality of justice delivery.

    “Attention must also be given to the remuneration and working conditions of Magistrates and other lower court judges who handle the great majority of criminal cases.

    “It is equally important to provide greater incentives and oversight for investigators, prosecutors and the support staff of the courts on whom the work of the courts actually depend,” he said.

    Read Also: FG creates 252, 000 jobs through housing projects – Minister

    Prof. Akinseye-George spoke while announcing a partnership agreement between his centre, the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) and International IDEA to deepen the National Minimum Standards Project for the effective implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act in the FCT and the Administration of Criminal Justice Laws of the seven focal states of RoLAC.

    He identified the States as Abia, Adamawa, Anambra Kano, Lagos, Plateau, and Edo.

    Akinseye-George explained that the partnership will enable RoLAC/IIDEA fund the activities of the CSLS to disseminate the National Minimum Standards in the FCT, and the focal states.

    He said the partnership will also aid CSLS to build capacity of the officials and other stakeholders and  recommend legislative reform and propose amendments to bring the Administration of Criminal Justice Act/Laws (ACJA/ACJLs) into conformity with the National Minimum Standards.

  • FG hands over three Agusta helicopters to Navy

    FG hands over three Agusta helicopters to Navy

    The Federal Government has handed over three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker (AW) Helicopters to the Nigerian Navy to boost operational capability.

    The helicopters were handed over to the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kanna, at a brief ceremony in Lagos on Tuesday.

    According to a statement by the Navy’s spokesman, Commodore Aiwuyor Aliu-Adams, on Wednesday, November 13, the AW 109 helicopter was “designed with auxiliary tanks which gives it extended endurance of up to 3 hrs 40 mins,” thus suitable for long range transport flights.

    He said: “Furthermore, the helicopter is designed with a landing skid which gives it a better loading capacity compared to wheeled helicopters. 

    Read Also: Navy arrests suspects with stolen crude oil worth N32m

    “The helicopters could also be retrofitted with purpose built mission equipment.
    “It has a purpose-built VIP configuration with full leather and noise attenuation system.”

    Commodore Aliu-Adams said that the CNS thanked President Bola Tinubu for his “unflinching support” to the Armed Forces and the Nigerian Navy.

    “He also expressed gratitude to both the Minister of Defence and the Minister of State for Defence for facilitating the acquisition of the helicopters to boost the Nigerian Navy’s operations,” he said.

  • FG rightly ended trial of minors – Ozekhome

    FG rightly ended trial of minors – Ozekhome

    Rights activist, Professor Mike Ozekhome (SAN), has said the Federal Government was right to have discontinued the trial of some minors charged with treason over their involvement in the #EndBadGovernance protest.

    Ozekhome faulted the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for charging them with treason for merely waving a foreign flag in Nigeria.

    He also faulted the trial venue, arguing the minors ought not to be taken before a Federal High Court in Abuja but tried before  Family Courts established under the Child Rights Act or Law and in the states where they were arrested.

    Ozekhome said: “Was it right to try minors for waving the national flags of other countries? Was this an act that constitutes a criminal offence? Was there mens rea (intention) and actus reus (physical consummation of the intention)? 

    “These are some of the questions generated by the recent arraignment of minors that rightly generated national rockets. Let us briefly interrogate these questions.

    “Treason is defined in section 410 of the Penal Code as ‘levying war against the State’ with the intention of ‘over-awing the (President)’. It is punishable with death. 

    “Treasonable felony (or ‘crimes’), on the other hand (as defined in section 412 of the Penal Code), manifests in, amongst others, an overt act done with the intention of either compelling the government to effect a change of policy, to intimidate, or to overawe the Legislature or to instigate a foreigner to invade Nigeria. 

    “It is punishable with life imprisonment.

    “It must be noted that while the Penal Code applies in the Northern part of Nigeria, the Criminal Code (and its variants) applies in the South. Provisions similar to those under the Penal Code also exist in the South 

    “It appears to me too far-fetched to charge a person with treason simply for merely waving a foreign flag in Nigeria, without more. 

    “There must be something overt, capable of igniting the intention, otherwise it will amount to criminalising a person’s right to freedom of speech and expression which is guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution. 

    “Instigating our military (or that of another country) to overthrow the government would clearly constitute such an act; but nothing of the sort was shown in the case of the minors.

    “It must be pointed out that no law prohibits the prosecution of a person for violating any law – including treason or treasonable felony – unless he or she is less than 7 years old or if, between the ages of 7 and 12, he lacks the requisite maturity and capacity to understand the nature and consequences of his or her acts. See Section 50 of the Penal Code

    Read Also: Ozekhome: Supreme Court’s judgment halts FAAC allocations to CTC chairmen

    “Subject to such express exceptions provided, such a person of less than 18 years of age should only be arraigned before a Family Court established under the Child Rights Act or Law (defined as a High Court judge or Magistrate sitting with two assessors); but certainly not while they are exercising their regular jurisdiction. 

    “All persons except court staff, the accused, their counsel and family members are excluded from such proceedings under sections 149, 150, 151, 152 and 162 of the Child Rights Act which is in force in Abuja. 

    “Similar provisions exist in the Child Rights Laws of various states that have domesticated the Act.

    “It therefore follows that the Police should have charged the ‘underage’ defendants in either Kaduna or Kano under the relevant laws of those states instead of dragging them to Abuja. 

    “The trial in Abuja was farcical and contrary to  law. It was right and proper that same was discontinued,” Ozekhome said.

  • FG to foster conducive environment for youth – Minister

    FG to foster conducive environment for youth – Minister

    The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to create an enabling environment for young people to thrive and realise their potential in governance.

    Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, made this declaration at the Valedictory Sitting of the 5th Session of the Nigerian Youth Parliament (NYP) held at the National Assembly Complex, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Olawande emphasised the ministry’s commitment to expanding opportunities for youth empowerment, skill development, and supporting youth-led initiatives nationwide.

    He urged stakeholders to collaborate in building a Nigeria where young people could achieve their dreams without limitations, irrespective of social, ethnic, and religious differences.

    “The Nigerian Youth Parliament, established in 2008 by President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, has produced 436 youths with legislative skills and expertise in collective decision-making.

    “The 5th Session’s 109 members have shaped policies, raised awareness, and addressed critical youth issues.”

    Olawande assured that the ministry would implement the parliament’s recommendations to better the lives of Nigerian youth.

    He encouraged outgoing members to remain vigilant and champion youth rights and inclusive policies, emphasising President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to 30 per cent youth and women representation in governance.

    Read Also: Open letter to education minister

    Dr Azeezat Yishawu, Speaker of the 5th Session, highlighted the parliament’s efforts in promoting youth participation and advocating for inclusive policies.

    “When the government requests youth to take proactive steps regarding their needs, the parliament has fulfilled this requirement by adhering to established rules and processes for engaging the National Assembly and the Ministry of Youth.

    “As parliament members, we have partially fulfilled our responsibility by promoting youth participation.

    “Our recommendations emphasise the need for a more deliberate and inclusive approach to involving young people throughout policy implementation – from inception to execution.

    “As we conclude this session, we will return to our constituencies, continuing our efforts to integrate youth into government processes at all levels, ultimately fostering a better Nigeria,” Yishawu said..

    (NAN)

  • FG gives conditions to access 75B MSMEs loans

    FG gives conditions to access 75B MSMEs loans

    The Federal Government has given conditions for prospective beneficiaries of the Presidential Grants and Loan Scheme for the Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

    The Akwa Ibom Manager of the Bank Of Industry (BOI) Tolulope Toluwase reeled out the requirements at the formal launch of the scheme in Uyo, Akwa Ibom state.

    Toluwase said the project targets 75,000 MSMEs, 75000 Direct Jobs and 150, 000 Indirect jobs.

    He stressed that applicants must present a guarantor not less than grade level 10 at the federal government civil service, BVN/NIN, four passport photographs, valid means of identification of himself and that of his guarantor.

    The BOI boss said that any applicant who comes out successfully and met all the requirements shall be given N1million loan to boost his/her bussiness operations.

    Toluwase explained repayment plan shall span for three years on a monthly basis with an interest rate of a single digit.

    He said: “We believe that N1m per beneficiary when injected in a small and medium scale operation shall make a significant impact. Since it’s a loan there must be some documentation and anyone who wants to access must first of all be in business, must be a sole proprietorship and must be registered with Corporate Affairs Commission, (CAC), the interest rate is actually a single digit.

    Read Also: FG to disburse N1bn loan to 1,000 MSMEs in Bauchi

    “Therefore, go and apply quickly so that you can be shortlisted. When you don’t apply on time and other people apply they will take the money. The system will be watching the State that is applying more and when they reach that threshold, they will close that portal for them to allow other people to apply. They are going to treat the applications on first come basis.”

    Commissioner for Trade and Investment in Akwa Ibom, John James said the importance of MSMEs in every economy cannot be overemphasised describing it as the backbone and highest employer of labour in Nigeria.

    While thanking the Federal Government for the oncoming intervention to MSMEs across the nation vis a vis Akwa Ibom, the Commissioner advised the prospective beneficiaries to ensure they channel the money to the appropriate business and not divert it to other things.

  • ‘FG committed to judicious application of ecological fund’

    ‘FG committed to judicious application of ecological fund’

    The House of Representatives Committee on Ecological Fund has promised to ensure appropriated funds are disbursed accordingly and utilised judiciously. 

    The team, led by the Vice Chairman, Oyedeji Oyeshina, was in Lagos at the weekend for an on-the-spot assessment of some erosion-prone areas.

    Others in the team were Paul Nnamchi, Kafilat Ogbara, Ahmed Doro, Hassan Abubakar, Yakubu Noma, Abdullahi Gwarzo, Patrick Umoh, Aminu Aliyu Gari, Hassan Jakduwa, Aminu Ibrahim Kafu, and Danladi Aguye. 

    They visited Orimolade Street, off College Road, Alade Bucknor Estate off Fagba Road, in Ogba; Sango Toll Gate Bridge on the Lagos/Abeokuta Expressway, as well as Maidan/Agiliti areas in Ketu.

    Addressing reporters after the tour, Oyeshina said the team had gone round some other states in the Southwest to see things themselves and towards ensuring a lasting solution to erosion challenges. 

    He said: “We had visited some states in the north and east parts, and now in the Southwest. We recognise erosion as part of the effects of climate change, and so we have to ensure that funds allocated to combat it must be used judiciously.

    “The Federal Government decided to pause on the allocation of funds to allow the committee conduct a holistic assessment and advise it on subsequent disbursement as appropriate.

    “Part of our mandate is to ensure that all communities affected by erosion and other ecological issues are adequately catered for when the funds are allocated.

    Read Also: Ighele charges FG to prioritize youths’ development for national progress

    “The Federal Government will not relent, but will continue to collaborate with all states in order to perform its responsibilities of maintaining a safe and sustainable environment for all.”

    Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, hoped that residents of the erosion-prone areas would have cause to enjoy benefits of the funds.

    “I believe that very soon, our people will enjoy the benefits of this fund. According to the vice chairman, the Federal Government deliberately paused the disbursement of ecological funds, which shows that it plans to rework the allocation process to make it more effective,” Wahab added.

    The commissioner recalled that the state officials, in 2019, conducted a comprehensive assessment of all erosion affected areas and requested funds from the Federal Government to resolve the issues. 

    He emphasised that it is very essential for the Federal and state governments to collaborate in ensuring the sustainable development of all parts, and providing a quality living environment for all residents.

    According to him, the Lagos State government awaits the ecological and intervention funds approval to fix some ecological challenges which the state has been experiencing for a while. He promised that the funds would be deployed to some already identified projects to address the erosion and flood menace in affected communities.

    Wahab also thanked the committee for visiting Lagos and for its commitment to seeing that funds are disbursed soon.

    Also on the trip were the Permanent Secretary (Office of Drainage Services), Engr. Mahamood Adegbite; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mrs. Lolade Aina, and other top state officials.

  • FG releases withheld salaries of NASU, pays retirement benefits

    FG releases withheld salaries of NASU, pays retirement benefits

    The Federal Government has released funds for the payment of withheld salaries to the Non-Academic Staff Union of Federal Universities (NASU).

    This is a conciliatory step by the Federal Government in addressing long-standing salary arrears and supporting federal university staff, some of whom have embarked on strike.

    The announcement came from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF) in a statement by Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations, on Saturday.

    According to the OAGF, the Federal Government has also allocated funds to cover benefits for retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector (NUPCPS), further demonstrating its commitment to honouring pension obligations.

    Mokwa added that payments have commenced, with numerous NASU members confirming receipt of their salaries. 

    This release is anticipated to alleviate financial pressures faced by university staff and contributes to stabilizing the public university system.

    “The Federal Government remains committed to efficiently catering to the welfare of Nigerian workers and retirees,” the OAGF statement reads demonstrating ongoing efforts to ensure prompt financial support for public sector workers and pensioners by the government.

    The development is part of broader measures aimed at resolving financial grievances within Nigeria’s higher education sector and improving the welfare of both active and retired personnel.