The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Groups

  • Groups want NBC to sanction BBNaija show

    Groups want NBC to sanction BBNaija show

    If anti-tobacco groups have their way, the Nigeria Broadcasting Commission (NBC) should bring its hammer hard on MultiChoice, owners of DSTV and GoTV for promoting smoking scenes in the ongoing Big Brother Naija 2018 Show.

    A coalition made up of the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), Gatefield and Nigeria Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) at a press conference in Abuja expressed outrage over smoking scenes that were shown on the current edition of the Big Brother Naija, saying the scenes were targeted at making smoking look acceptable.

    The particular scene featured two housemates – Khloe and Teddy A – puffing smoke after a very heated debate with fellow housemates.

    ERA/FoEN Deputy Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, said that the smoking scenes have generated genuine outrage among Nigerians who see it as a promotion of cigarettes to the youths who mostly watch the BBNaija show.

    Oluwafemi noted that prodded by her followers on her twitter page to do something about the BBNaija smoking scene, the Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Social Media, Lauretta Onochie  said the government had no power to move against immoralities in the show as it was an adult programme. She remarked that the show was not compulsory to watch and advised parents to use their remote control to change the channel whenever obscenity is shown.

    But Oluwafemi said that such a remark does not assuage the feeling of Nigerians who believe that the government can do more.

    Hilda Ochefu, Sub-regional co-ordinator of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (ERA/FoEN), explained that the smoking scenes were particularly disturbing and were intended to demonstrate to the youths that cigarettes calm frayed nerves.

    Adewunmi Emoruwa of Gatefield, while expressing his aversion to the smoking scenes, said that the depiction of smoking as hype breaches Nigeria’s laws hence the need for the government to take action.

     

  • Agbakoba: super coalition of groups, parties coming

    Agbakoba: super coalition of groups, parties coming

    National Intervention Movement (NIM) Leader Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN) yesterday said a “super coalition” of political groups and parties would soon be unveiled.

    He said he met with Nigerians in the diaspora and global leaders and had nationwide consultations towards actualising the partnership.

    Agbakoba said NIM was pushing for “a revolution for true social, economic and political change in Nigeria”.

    According to him, the “extensive consultations with both Nigerians in Diaspora and a variety of global leaders” is aimed at “seeing a secure Nigeria re-attain democratic leadership in Africa and reliability as a member of the 21st century’s progressive international comity of nations”.

    A statement by NIM Director of Communications Mr. John Ekwuyasi said: “Dr. Agbakoba, accompanied by NIM Co-Chairman Dr. Abdul Jhali Tafawa Balewa, has since commenced further nationwide consultations with all like-minded Nigerian leaders and groups.

    “It is with the intent of partnering in the creation of a super-coalition of groups and parties determined to bring about real sustainable change to the present politico-economic status quo, and betterment of the lives of Nigerians nationwide, with especial emphasis on establishing a compass to liberate and empower Nigeria’s teeming millions of neglected youths and women.”

  • Groups seek immediate enforcement of tobacco control Act

    Civil society groups under the auspices of Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) and National Tobacco Control Alliance (NTCA) have urged the Federal Government to urgently enforce the National Tobacco Control (NTC) Act.

    Speaking in Lagos yesterday at a press conference tagged: Enforcing Tobacco Control Act is Everyone’s Duty, Deputy Executive Director of ERA/FoEN, AkinbodeOluwafemi, stressed the time to enforce the law was now.

    The groups expressed worries there were no concrete actions to show the Federal Ministry of Health was determined to implement the Act signed into law in 2015.

    Akinbode lamented the tobacco industry was having a field day addicting Nigerians kids into smoking three years after Minister of Health Professor Isaac Adewole announced commencement of the enforcement of nine key provisions of the Act.

    He cited some of the provisions to include: Prohibition of sale of tobacco products to and by anyone below 18; Ban of sale or offer for sale or distribution of tobacco or tobacco products through mail, internet or online devices; Prohibition of interference of tobacco industry in public health and related issues among others.

    Akinbode stated it was regrettable the federal government was yet to commence serious public education as well as clampdown on violations.

    NTCA Programmes Director, Oluseun Esan enjoined government to begin the enforcement of the nine key provisions of the NTC Act that do not require regulations such as smoke-free public places, restriction on underage access and ban of sale of single sticks, among others.

     

     

    “Relevant government agencies such as the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) and security agencies should begin clampdown on infractions.

    “There is need for the commencement of mass public education to be spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and the National Orientation Agency (NOA),” he said.

     

  • Groups holds march for Ambode

    Groups holds march for Ambode

    A group of Lagosians operating under the aegis of Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko Vanguard has staged a three million-man match in the three senatorial districts of the state in support of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode led administration.

    Fielding questions from reporters, the coordinator of the group Mr. Seyi Bamigbade said they also led scores of Muslim at the weekend to hold special prayer session for the success of the administration, saying it is their desire for the governor to be reelected for second term .

    According to him, the prayers led by the President of council of Imams and Alfa, Imam. Khidir Olojeola used the opportunity to pray seek the support of the Muslim community for the second year in office of Ambode.

    Bamigbade explained that the three million man march for good governance and support for Ambode to continue in office was organized by different groups under the aegis of Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko Vanguards.

    He said Governor Ambode needs the payer of Lagosians, saying the match took place at the three senatorial districts with one million in each senatorial district of Lagos State to show support and appreciation to the governor for not disappointing the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Lagosians as a whole.

    Also, the member representing Epe Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Segun Olulade urged the group to ensure sustenance of the transformation agenda of Lagos State.

    He pointed out that the state has been blessed with good leaders who have passion for making life easy for the residents, adding that “all we need is to support them with prayers.”

    Commenting on the prayer session, President of the Council of Imams and Alfa, Khidir Olojeola said the first term of Governor Ambode was characterised by series of laudable projects including improved road infrastructure, schools’ upgrade, improving the healthcare sector, and massive investment in the security apparatus in the state.

    The cleric said the Muslim community also used the occasion to pray for continued peaceful co-existence in the state as well as the overall progress of the country.

    He also expressed optimism that with Governor Ambode on the saddle as helmsman, the state will grow in leaps and bounds in the midst of economic challenges across the country.

    ”There is still a lot of work to be done in the state, but Governor Ambode has started on a very sound footing despite the economic challenges in the country.”

  • U.S. Embassy awards $404,553 in grants to civil society groups

    The United States (U.S.) Mission to Nigeria has awarded $404,553 in grants to civil society groups in response to applications for its 2017 annual programme, it was learnt yesterday.

    The grant is expected to be used to address 23 projects of concern to the country and its citizens.

    A statement issued by the embassy in Abuja yesterday said projects that will be executed are aimed at promoting women entrepreneurship and economic growth.

    The statement reads: “The grantees include civil society organisations, arts companies and alumni of the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Programme.  Grantees will execute projects to promote women’s entrepreneurship and economic development; increase disabled and non-disabled students’ access to primary and secondary education; mitigate farmer-herder conflict and support anti-corruption efforts.”

    Already, a one-day workshop has been conducted to ensure effective management of the funds.

    U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria W. Stuart Symington, who spoke at the workshop, underscored the key role the grantees could play in “solidifying Nigeria’s democratic gains, creating economic opportunity and ensuring a united Nigeria”.

  • Groups call for unity in Rivers APC

    Four groups in the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have called for unity in the main opposition party, while kicking against anointing of governorship candidate for Rivers APC in 2019.

    The groups, the Movement for Progressive Change, the Rivers Network for Positive Change,  M30 and Ogoni Democratic Movement, in their separate meetings in Port Harcourt yesterday, urged the APC leader in Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, who is the Transportation Minister, to ensure a level-playing field for governorship aspirants.

    The President of the Movement for Progressive Change, Prince Akwekwe, decried the wave of intimidation that had permeated all levels of the APC in Rivers State.

    Akwekwe said: “Sadly, most of the people who took risks for Rivers APC before, during and after the 2015 general elections have been abandoned. Party loyalty has been reduced to loyalty to an aspirant that has been programmed to be anointed by those who believe they own the party.”

    The Publicity Secretary of Rivers Network for Positive Change, Bethel Chigozie, also stated that the biggest problem confronting the Rivers APC was disunity.

    The President-General of M30, Amb. Anosike Orduwa said: “For the past two years, our members have been suffering. There is no empowerment  from any quarter.

    The President of Ogoni Democratic Movement, Goddy Bazaari, called on the leaders of the APC to concentrate more on how to create jobs for members of the party.

  • Groups partner on youth development

    Groups partner on youth development

    Blaugrana Group International in partnership with WhiteHouse Group is developing platforms to attract over 1,000 youths for talent development.

    WhiteHouse Group President Mr. Austin Eruotor said the two groups were passionate about developing talents in all areas, especially for youths.

    “From our research, we have discovered that young people are becoming more interested in literature, music, arts and sports. Thus, we are coming together to help them live their dreams for the good of us all and the betterment of our society,” he said.

    At a breifing, FCBESCOLA, Lagos licensee, Mr. Leslie Oghomienor, said there was a need for the reorientation of the youth because some stars,  in entertainment, sports, academics and politics, failed to maximise their potential because of character deficits and attitudinal challenges.

    “As an employee and employer, I have seen very brilliant, intelligent and smart people, great talents and superstars who are nowhere because of their attitude, character and mindsets. In any area, the wealth of gifted talents in Nigeria is enormous. Our interest is in  helping our young people to become better and good leaders and respectable individuals by teaching them acceptable values based on global leadership ethics without compromising our cultural, spiritual and traditional norms and values,’ Oghomienor said.

    According to Eruotor, the first outing of the project is football competition scheduled for the third week of August in Lagos. It would be the take off point with over 1000 youths drawn from all the local government areas. Aside a gold trophy, there are cash prizes to be won ranging from N250,000, he said.

    The programmes will offer the participants the opportunity to display their skills, talents, knowledge and attitudes and they would be guided towards making sound life changing positive career/professional decisions, which will offer long-term benefits for them.

    Mr. Larry Kubeinje said it was a novel step in the right direction to help young people grow into worthy ambassadors of our great country Nigeria. “Developing the youth today, is guaranteeing a peaceful, stable, and viable Nigerian future,” he added.

    The project, designed to be a yearly event, would cater for youths below 17. The areas include Agege, Badagry, Aja, Epe, Makoko, Ajegunle, Mushin, Ikorodu, and Isale Eko.

  • Groups partner on excellence awards

    CharmAccess Foundation, a non-governmental organisation dedicated to improving access to better healthcare in Africa, is partnering with Nigeria Healthcare Excellence Award for this year’s awards. The event is tagged: NHEA 2017.

    NHEA Project Coordinator Dr. Shola Alabi expressed satisfaction with the support NHEA gave  PharmAccess last year and the current one. This, according to him, suggests a commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

    Alabi said nomination for the awards, the fourth edition, was still ongoing. He called on stakeholders to visit: www.nigeriahealthawards.c om.ng to either make their nominations online or download the nomination form. ‘’Nominations will close on May 26, 2017 before the commencement of online voting to enable the award jury select the winners of the various categories. It is made up of three main categories: Special awards, Healthcare Delivery Services and Biomedical Technology,’’he said.

    PharmAccess Nigeria Country Director Mrs. Njide Ndili said the award recognises excellence in healthcare quality.

    “At PharmAccess Foundation, our objective is to facilitate innovation to improve access, efficiency in service delivery with continuous and sustained improvement in healthcare especially for the low-income communities in Africa and Nigeria in particular. NHEA presents one of those credible platforms to recognise and reward excellence supporting these objectives.”

    Winners of the various categories will be honoured on Friday, June 23, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos. About 23 awards and recognitions will be presented at the ceremony.

    PharmAccess mobilises public and private sector resources for the benefit of healthcare providers and patients through clinical standards and quality improvements, loans for healthcare providers, health insurance, health innovations and operational research. NHEA is organised by Global Health Project and Resources (GHPR) in collaboration with Anadach Group, USA

  • Groups laud Ambode on achievements

    Groups laud Ambode on achievements

    Some Lagos State-based political groups have hailed Governor Akinwunmi Ambode for his efforts in making life better for residents.
    The groups include the Awori Youth Vanguard (AYV); Lagosians Future Group (LFG); Akinwunmi Ambode Movement Organisation (AAMO); Asiwaju National Forum (ANF); De-Fash Movement (DFM); Akinwunmi Grassroot Movement (AGM); Akinwunmi Ambode for Governor Projects (AAGP) among others.
    They described the governor as an exemplary leader who places premium on the welfare of the people.
    The groups, which spoke through its General Coordinator, Mr Seyi Bamigbade at their general meeting, said over 20 political groups, even from the opposition party are backing the governor.
    He said members of the groups cut across the local governments and local council development areas.
    Bamigbade said the groups took the decision after being convinced of Governor Ambode’s leadership qualities, general concern for the common man and efforts to make life more meaningful for residents.
    According to Bamigbade, the level of transformation in the mega city , restructuring in civil service for better performance,  concern for youths and retirees, improvement in primary education, special attention to peoples’ health, transparent governance, road infrastructure and tackling traffic headlong across the state deserve qualify him for his a second term.
    Mr Bamigbade, appealed to Lagosians to support the programmes and policies of the governor to ensure continuity and make Lagos a preferred state to live in.

  • Groups donate sandals to indigent pupils

    Groups donate sandals to indigent pupils

    In commemoration of the International Day of the girl-child, Hope for African Girls Initiative (HAGi), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), in collaboration with the Nigerian Writers Award (NWA), has donated 1,000 pairs of sandals to indigent school children under a project tagged: Footsteps to a better tomorrow.

    Some of the schools are Suleiman Muslim School in Offa, Bimpe Primary School, Offa, Ajoke Nursery and Primary School in Ipe, Muslim Community School, Ipe, Community Primary School in Ago Baba Osi, and Community Primary School in Ipe.

    HAGi’s coordinator Jennifer Umeh said the gesture was to ensure that pupils did not walk bare foot to school.

    “The goal of the project is to take their shame away and kit them with good footwear,” she said.

    Before embarking on the project, Jennifer, a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa (OFFA POLY), said the children were at the risk of injury and exposure to diseases that may arise from bacteria-infested wounds. She said the need to protect the children from diseases informed the project.

    She said: “Children going to school barefooted are common  in this part of the country. We felt the urge to help them and protect them from diseases and injuries that may discourage them from achieving their future aims.”

    Jennifer said the gesture would have been impossible without the partnership of NWA and beneficiary schools’ authorities, which bought into the idea to support the project.

    Modest Diko, NWA coordinator, said: “We decided to visit remote areas, because rural dwellers are the people who need this kind of gesture most. We bought and donated the foot wares with the hope that the society will realise the dangers which comes with sending children to school in bare foot. We hope this effort brings such practice to end.

    “We believe children are future. If we truly care and believe in them, we need to support them by providing materials they need to keep them focused. We all would cry happy tears when we see them achieving their dreams.”

    The organisers thanked donors and volunteers who supported the project for their generosity, saying the exercise was a work in progress.