Education

FG Investigates 107 Varsities over Fake Degrees

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The Federal Government has invited Memoranda from the public as it begins the probe of private Universities established in the last 15 years.

The Federal Government initiated the probe following an investigative report by Daily Nigerian journalist, Umar Audu, uncovering certificate racketeering in neighboring Benin Republic and Togo.

According to reports, that no fewer than 107 private Universities were established in the last 15 years.

The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, made this known in Abuja while inaugurating the Inter-Ministerial Committee on fake degrees and activities of degree mills in the country.

The Inter-Ministerial Investigative Committee on Degree Certificate Milling set up by the Federal Government would be examining “whether or not private Universities established in the last 15 years have in place prescribed facilities, appropriate management structure, adequate funding of programmes, requisite state, and nature of the staff , full-time, contract, adjunct, visiting and other types.”

The Committee, noted that the probe was “without prejudice to the periodic accreditation exercise of the National Universities Commission.”

“Memoranda from the general public are, therefore, solicited to provide information to the committee to help it make appropriate recommendations to address the menace in line with its terms of reference,” the committee said.

In his investigative report published late last year, Daily Nigerian journalist Audu had narrated how he obtained a degree within six weeks from Benin Republic and even proceeded to embark on the mandatory youth service under the National Youth Service Corps scheme in the country.

Reacting, the Federal Government, on January 9, 2024, said it would launch an investigation into private universities established in the last 15 years.

The Committee Chairman, Jibrila Amin, noted that the inter-ministerial committee would “Review the role of any MDA or its officials (including identifying such officials) in the facilitation of the recognition and procurement of the fake certificate in question.”

The committee will also”examine the rules, procedures and processes for recognition and accreditation of Foreign universities and programmes by the Federal Ministry of Education; Establish if unapproved foreign institutions (Degree Mills) exist or not in Nigeria in whatever form with their identities and locations if any.”

It is expected to “make appropriate recommendations for review of any rules, procedures, and processes to prevent reccurrence and sanctions for identified erring officials.

“Make other recommendations that will strengthen the system of recognition, accreditation and quality assurance of degrees in Nigeria and examine the extant rules, procedures and processes for granting provisional licenses to new universities by the National Universities Commission.”

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

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Economy

New PoS Charges: FG Slams Offenders 1m Fine

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The Federal Government, through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, has issued a cease-and-desist order to Point of Sale operators from conduct that constitutes an infringement of the law.

This follows the move by PoS operators, under the umbrella of the Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria, to fix new prices for PoS transactions.

The new pricing model began on July 17, 2023.

According to the commission, PoS operators that are found in violation of the order will pay N10m for corporate entities and N1m and, or, a prison sentence of up to three months for individuals.

The FCCPC, in a statement signed by its Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer, Babatunde Irukera, on Monday, said, “The Commission advises PoS operators that violation of an order of the Commission attracts additional consequences apart from the underlying illegal conduct that is the subject of the order such as up to N10,000,000 for corporate entities; and N1,000,000 and or a prison sentence of up to three months for individuals.”

The commission noted that it has not sought to limit the prerogative of PoS service providers to determine and set prices for services in a manner of their choosing, subject to Section 127 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, which prohibits manifestly unjust or exploitative prices.

It stated that it respects and encourages a pricing methodology that is the product of market forces in a free, competitive, and undistorted market. However, it said there is no evidence that the PoS market lacks sufficient players or competition in Lagos or anywhere else.

The commission said, “While the Commission continues to provide consideration to, and for small businesses, enforcing the law must remain non-negotiable.

“Accordingly, the Commission, in escalating this in accordance with the FCCPA and ancillary instruments, has entered an Order & Notice (ONC) of the Commission to AMMBAN, persons identified as executives, members, and non-member PoS operators to Cease and Desist from conduct that constitutes an infringement of the law.”

It said the ONC had been served on AMMBAN. It was also noted that not all members can be personally served or will become aware through service on AMMBAN.

It further stated, “In addition, some persons, such as non-AMMBAN members, may become subject to the ONC. Accordingly, the Commission has, and is by this again publicly disseminating the ONC. Members are however invited to consider sufficiency of service of the ONC under Section 158(4) of the FCCPA which deems such service on their association or executives as adequate and acceptable.”

According to the Commission, it had tried the cautious and collaborative approach but has now adopted the ONC to convey its will to enforce the law, including, and up to prosecuting violators and affiliates who may otherwise be statutorily liable for the conduct of a violating company or business.

It added, “In addition to stipulated statutory consequences, although the Commission prefers not to disrupt the business and operations of small enterprises, it will (if it becomes necessary) prohibit merchant services and privileges to PoS operators or AMMBAN members who persist in conduct that is inconsistent with law and economic efficiency.”

Punch/Adebukola Aluko

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Energy

Subsidy Removal: FG Strides Towards Solar Alternative  

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By Adenitan Akinola

The Federal Government is to provide solar energy alternatives to Nigerians in a bid to cushion the effect of subsidy removal on businesses and households.

The Managing Director of Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Mr Ahmad Salihijo Ahmad gave the hint in Osogbo, the Osun State capital during the inspection of Energizing Economies Initiative Project.

The Ayegbaju International Market Osogbo is being used for the  Rural Electrification Agency’s Energizing Economies Initiative (EEI) project where 48 shops have already been connected to the solar server.

Mr Ahmad said through REA, the Federal Government seeks to increase energy access and economic growth by providing clean, reliable and affordable power to economic clusters across Nigeria, such as markets, and shopping complexes among others.

The Managing Director, who was in the company of other executives, explained that the concept of the EEI project was to abolish the use of carbon monoxide petrol-powered generators. 

“We came to our Zonal office in Osun and we decided to do a short inspection of the Energizing Economies Initiative (EEI) that we have in Ayegbaju International Market, Osogbo.

“We came to see the progress of the work and we are very happy with what we have seen here today.

“The concept is to see how we can work with the market association and most importantly,  work with the state government to scale up solar power supply to the whole market,” he said 

He said at the pilot phase now, the solar power electricity is being test run on 48 shops and that in the long run, it would be extended to all the shops in the market with a power generation target of 300kwp.

He said with the interaction he had with the leadership of the market, shop owners were interested in the solar power project, as an alternative power source to run their operations/shops.

“What we have seen is the tremendous interest of the market people in the solar energy alternative,  especially using it to replace petrol generators, in the face of subsidy removal,” he said

He said as a follow-up to the inspection and interaction with the market people, he would meet and work with developers, Osun State Government, and even the market association, to draw a roadmap of how the project would be sustained and scaled up to cover the entire market.

He said with the solar system initiative, REA has been able to demonstrate a concept of solar power generation and supply, and that they can now bring in and work with other stakeholders to scale it up to the demand of Nigerians who are un-served and undeserved with electricity.

“Over 148 sites have been audited, directly by REA and with support from partners such as E-guide and Rockefeller Foundation, for the Energizing Economies Initiative (EEI) project.

“It is from these sites that Ayegbaju International Market Osogbo and Abubakar Gumi Markets Kaduna were selected to deliver the next phase of EEI projects,” he said 

He said they were taking into account the lessons learnt from phase zero and one of the project initiatives and would use it as a model for sustainable and collaborative projects with state governments and Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos).

“Once the solar system construction is completed, the State Governments or DisCos, developers, and REA will be able to sit with the Market Associations to sign a multilateral agreement which ensures the long-term viability of the project while ensuring energy access to the markets.

“These projects will also, as an incidental, provide much-needed relief to the businesses in these markets by reducing the dependency of petrol generators while increasing the penetration of renewable energy sources,” he said 

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Agriculture

FG, Ogun Government Empower Cassava Farmers

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By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Federal Government is working with the Ogun State government and other relevant stakeholders to support Cassava farmers with knowledge-based trainings and provision of farm input.

The collaboration, anchored by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is also aimed at reducing the loss of resources occasioned by the adverse effects of climate change on farming activities.

The Ministry’s Director in Ogun State, Dr Ayo Ajayi and a representative from Abuja, Mrs Esther Moyo made these known in Abeokuta at a training on promoting climate resilient practices among Cassava farmers.

Dr Ajayi and Mrs Moyo explained that the training and empowerment for both the cassava farmers and agricultural extension workers were necessary to enable the farmers to adopt smart initiatives to improve their yields for enhanced rural and national economy.

Also, the Acting Programme Manager, Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme, OGADEP, Mrs Solape Awe and the Programme’s Director of Extension Services, Mrs Abiola Sobukonla said the agency would reach out to cassava farmers across the state through the participants, identified as early adopters of new trends.

In the course of the training, the resource person, Dr Modupe Abidemi encouraged the cassava farmers to brace up to the challenge of working with weather forecasting tools, ensuring proper management of soil and water and sticking to the use of high quality planting materials.

Economy

FG Harmonizes Revenue Collection in FCT, States

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The Federal government has concluded arrangements to harmonize revenue collection in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT and Sub-States across the Federation. 

The minister of FCT Mallam Muhammad Bello made this known in Akure, Ondo State during a two-day retreat on the harmonization of revenue collection in the FCT 

Mallam Muhammad Bello decried that multiple agencies and departments responsible for the collection of various taxes and fees from businesses and individuals had caused confusion, duplication, and inefficiency within the system 

Represented by the permanent secretary, FCT Administration, Sir Olusade Adesola, the minister explained that the reform would enhance transparent, predictable and efficient regulatory environment for businesses 

Earlier, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was represented by Ondo state commissioner for finance, Mr Wale Akinterinwa recommended policy and administrative reforms which he said had increased the State’s IGR from 10.2 billion naira in 2017 to 32.8 billion naira in 2022

Also, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi who described the tax as an essential tool for national growth advised the government on moderate taxation to encourage small businesses to grow 

In separate remarks, some participants including Chairman of, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Muhammad Nami described the retreat as not only timely but also a key to getting sustainable internally generated revenue for a better standard of living

Olorunferanmi Odofin

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Economy

New Naira: Olubadan Hails Judgment, Tasks FG on Easing Nigerians’ Pains

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By Maxwell Oyekunle

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, has tasked the Federal Government to use the Supreme Court judgment on the legality of the old currency notes to ease the pains and tension in the land.

Oba Balogun who gave this reaction in a press statement made available to journalists in Ibadan on Friday by his Personal Assistant (Media), Oladele Ogunsola, hailed the ruling of the apex court which extended the legality of old currency notes till the 31st December this year.

The monarch praised the Supreme Court for standing by the people at this critical moment “when living is becoming extremely difficult for ordinary citizens” .

He appealed to the federal government to allow people to access their funds in the banks so that many crumbling businesses can rise again, saying, “the current policy putting a ceiling on how much an individual can get from his/her account in the banks should be reviewed”“.

Recalling the twin problems of hike in fuel pump price and cash crunch occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy and Naira redesign policy respectively almost at the same time, the first class monarch noted that the two policies resulted in excruciating pains for the people, adding, “I felt deep pains seeing people queuing up at filling stations and banks at the same time.”

But, with the Friday judgment making the old notes valid till the end of this year, Oba Balogun said, “It is a great opportunity for the FG to bring succour to the people by releasing money to the populace”.

“The last couple of weeks were too traumatic for the people and it is hoped that the Supreme Court judgment would be a platform to lean on by the government to ease the pains in the land”, the monarch observed.

Oba Balogun praised the people for their resilience and perseverance through it all and for not allowing the problems to prevent them from performing their civic responsibility by coming out to vote in the last Saturday presidential and National Assembly election.

The Olubadan then urged them to also demonstrate the same patriotism come next week when the Gubernatorial and State Assembly Elections would be held.

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Lifestyle

FG Declares Public Holidays for Christmas, New Year

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The Federal Government has declared December 26th and 27th as well as January 2nd, 2023 as public holidays to mark the Christmas and New Year celebrations respectively.

This was confirmed by the Interior Minister, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, in a statement released on Friday and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Belgore Shuaib.

The public holidays, the statement says, is to celebrate Christmas, Boxing Day, and New Year.

Ogbeni Aregbesola urged Christians to emulate Jesus and reflect on his teachings as they celebrate.

“We must imbibe the life of Jesus Christ in His practice and teachings on humility, service, compassion, patience, peace, and righteousness, that His birth signifies,” He stated.

The Minister noted that it is the best way to portray Christ and celebrate his birth.

“The Minister also assures that the Government has put in place effective measures for the security of lives and property and expects Nigerians to support the efforts of security agencies by providing useful information that will assist them in the performance of their duties,” the statement further read.

“He wishes all Christians in particular a happy Christmas and all Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year celebration.”

Ogbeni Aregbesola admonishes all citizens to remain focused and expresses confidence that the year 2023 would be a better year for everyone.

Adeniyi Bakare

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Education

Strike: ASUU’s NEC to Meet by 4PM

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The National Executive Council, NEC, of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU will commence its meeting by 4pm Today.

The NEC is the highest decision-making body of ASUU.

The outcome of the NEC meeting will determine whether ASUU will call off its strike which began on Monday, February 14, 2022.

A member of the NEC who confirmed this to The Punch on Sunday said, “The meeting will start by 4 pm”.

ASUU had last week directed its zones and branches to organise congresses following the deadlocked meeting between the union and representatives of the Federal Government.

Some students who spoke to our correspondent expressed fears at the possibility of an indefinite strike.

A student of the University of Ilorin, Tajudeen Sanusi said, “I don’t even want to think about it. I am scared and the idea of an indefinite strike doesn’t speak well to me at all. I am still optimistic though”

Another student at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Ifeoma Orji, said, “The past six to seven months have been depressing enough for me. I don’t even know what to do at the moment. I am in my final year, the thought of an indefinite strike alone is killing me. We are still hoping that the federal government and ASUU will find a common ground.”

Punch/Maxwell Oyekunle

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Security

Abuja-Kaduna Train: FG Refuses Terrorists’ Demands

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There are indications that negotiations between the Federal Government and terrorists, who attacked the Kaduna-Abuja train on March 28, have stalled following the refusal of the government to accede to their demands.

The terrorists are keeping about 100 passengers, who were abducted from the train, which derailed at Katari, Kaduna, after it was bombed.

Eight persons were killed and 26 others injured when gunmen attacked the train and kidnapped the victims.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, said it was unable to establish contact with 163 of the passengers and seven crew members, who boarded the train.

It was gathered that the demand by the attackers for the release of 16 of their commanders and sponsors in custody in exchange for the abducted victims was not acceptable to the government.

Security sources said the authorities were still negotiating with the terrorists, while exploring other options to rescue the abductees, who were seen in a viral video sitting under a tree at an unknown location, believed to be the bandits’ camp.

Our correspondent gathered on Friday that the government was also not ready to pay ransom on the abductees.

The Punch

News

FG Detects 1500 Fake Civil Servants

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The Federal Government has detected over 1,500 workers who joined the Federal civil service with fake appointment letters in the past year.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, made this known in her keynote address at the ‘National Policy Dialogue on Entrenching Transparency in Public Office Recruitment in Nigeria,’ organised by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, in Abuja on Tuesday.

Dr. Yemi-Esan said over 1,000 culprits were discovered in one ministry while 500 others found in other ministries, departments and agencies during a service-wide verification exercise and they would be delisted from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System.

The HoS explained that her administration has taken decisive steps to nip in the bud the alarming sharp practices and acts of impunity being perpetrated on the IPPIS, as well as to purge the system of all infiltrations.

She stated, “It would be recalled that in March last year, the office informed of the detection of fake letters of employment presented in some ministries. For instance, in the past year, in one ministry alone, over 1,000 individuals bearing fake letters of appointment were detected.

“In the light of the aforementioned, it is disheartening to point out that the office recently received a report from the Federal Civil Service Commission forwarding the names of over 500 persons in various MDAs in possession of fake letters of appointment and which are to be delisted from the IPPIS platform.

“Similarly, following the outcome of the Service-Wide Verification Exercise for officers recruited from 2013 – 2020, the Federal Civil Service Commission has also requested the suspension of the salaries of over 3,000 officers across the MDAs who failed to appear for the exercise pending further clearance.”

According to her, the government’s effort to stop financial leakages in the civil service had created a gap leading to a series of implementation issues, adding that as of March 2022, over 380,000 officers had been captured on the IPPIS payroll comprising 66,000 and 320,000 for core and non-core MDAs, respectively.

Dr. Yemi-Esan further said that her office is carrying out a mop-up exercise in the core and non-core MDAs which would be rounded off in September.

Speaking on global best practices in public service recruitment, Dr. Yemi-Esan noted that the Indian public service recruits only competent workers, compared to the Nigerian system which is based on federal character principles and nepotism.

PUNCH/Olaolu Fawole

Economy

Fuel Scarcity: Ondo State Residents Groan under Transport Fare Hike

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Difficult times are here again as the fuel situation in Akure the Ondo State capital gets worse as most filling stations were shut while crowds and with long queues dotted the few stations selling.

Correspondent John Ebiofini who went round the town observed that there was a chaotic situation at the filling stations visited as motorists, okada riders and others struggled to get fuel with attendants having a hectic time controlling the crowd.

Most of the filling stations claimed they had run out of supply amidst complaints they were hoarding the product.

The situation led to traffic jams as vehicles lined up the roads to buy fuel while commuters got stranded due to hikes in transport fares.

The usual fifty naira per drop was jacked up to one hundred naira as taxi drivers complained of not getting fuel to work.

In the Akoko area of the state, there was also a report of a hike in transport fare due to fuel scarcity.

The fare was increased from fifty naira to one hundred and fifty naira.

Speaking on this, Mr Edward from Erusu Akoko expressed worry that the artificial scarcity blamed on adulterated fuel import was placing a burden on Nigerians at this period of economic hardship.

Also speaking with Radio Nigeria, Mr Segun Afesojaye, however, blamed the petrol dealers for hoarding the product and Mr Lanre Adejoro said some filling stations sold at 250 naira per litre.

An okada rider, Mr Damilola Adedipe said he did not quite understand what exactly caused the present development.

Another motorist, Mr Collins Madu, however, advised the federal government to address the scarcity and save the citizens from unwarranted stress.

Some respondents, however, alleged that the scarcity was a ploy to force a price increase on the masses.

They then appealed to the federal government and other stakeholders to quickly intervene and not allow the country to be thrown into an inglorious past of perennial long queues at filling stations.

John Ebiofini

Security

Breaking: FG Finally Declares Bandits as Terrorists

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The Federal Government has formally declared bandit groups operating in the country as terrorists.

It read in part, “Notice is hereby given that by the Order of the Federal High Court Abuja, in suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1370/2021 dated 25th November 2021 as per the schedule to this Notice, the activities of Yan Bindiga Group, Yan Ta’adda Group and other similar groups in Nigeria are declared to be terrorism and illegal in any part of Nigeria, especially in the North West and North-Central Regions of Nigeria and are proscribed, pursuant to sections 1 and 2 of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2011.

“Consequently the general public is hereby warned that any person or group of persons participating in any manner whatsoever in any form of activities involving or concerning the prosecution of the collective intentions or otherwise of the groups referred to in paragraph 1 of this Notice will be violating the provisions of the Terrorism (Prevention) Act, 2011 and liable to prosecution.”

Federal High Court in Abuja had declared bandits as terrorists following an ex parte motion the Federal Government filed before it through the Ministry of Justice.

The declaration titled ‘Terrorism (Prevention) Proscription Order Notice, 2021 is contained in Volume 108 of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette.

FRCN Abuja

News

FG Hands Over Utensils To NGS Feeding Programme In Ogun

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Federal government has formally handed over utensils for the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme to the Ogun State government.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar-Farouq while handing over the utensils at U.B.E Primary School, Olorombo, Abeokuta informed the stakeholders that the ministry has deployed technology supported monitoring system to further understand how the programme is being implemented in all states.
The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development Hajia Sadiya Umar-Farouq represented by the Ministry’s Director of Human Resources Management, Mr. Babatunde Jaji explained that efforts are being made to scale up the benefiaries of the programme by five million pupils as mandated by the President.
Hajia Umar-Farouq noted that over nine million pupils are currently being fed under the home grown school feeding program generating employments and improving local economy.
She noted that data were being collated to make the programme sustainable and for the updating of the government records.
The Minister said women were also being empowered through the programme while the economy of communities are also being improved through quality feeding of the children.
Representative of Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, at the event, Mr. Olusegun Alade thanked the Federal government for the funding of the Home Grown School Feeding program stating that the programme had increased the pupils enrollment in government owned schools across the state.
Governor Dapo Abiodun represented by the Commissioner for special Duties, Mr. Femi Ogunbanwo while receiving the utensils stressed that Ogun stage government would not relent in discharging its responsibilities on the programme aimed at alleviating poverty and improving the economy.
The representative of the head teachers in Ogun state, Mrs. Adefunke Ogunkola while speaking shared her experience with one of the pupils on the home grown feeding.
Other stakeholders thanked the Federal government for the programme implementation in Ogun state.
The representatives of the ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Ogun state government and other stakeholders in the Home grown school feeding programme after the utensils handing over had a meeting where they all agreed to scale up there involvement at ensuring the success of the Programme in Ogun state.

Wale Oluokun

Health

Covid-19 Vaccine : Deadline For Government Workers Approaches

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Currently, there is a Federal Government memo indicating that  workers yet to take the Covid-19 jab would be denied access to work places.

This directive is to take effect from the first of December 2021.

As the deadline approaches, correspondent, Olufisoye Adenitan seeks the views of stakeholders about this development.

Since the launch of the Covid-19 vaccine ,efforts have been intensified by government to ensure  availability and accessibility of the vaccines by Nigerians  in government hospitals and other designated places.

Considering the population of over two hundred million Nigerians ,it  is pertinent to know that huge resources is needed to manage and control the spread of the virus through the vaccine and other safety measures.

It is on this basis that the Federal Government and some states launched the mass vaccination exercise to speed up the process of vaccination 

To further fast track the process, Federal   Government also raised a memo about a month ago on the need for all civil servants to get vaccinated before DEC 1 while erring workers would be prevented from accessing their offices.

Finding shows that  government had passed memo to it parastatals and MDAs on the Dec 1st deadline ,but investigations reveal that, the December 1st deadline memo had already been passed down to the establishments while feed back from the National orientation agency also show that workers attention had  been sufficiently drawn to the directive.

Speaking on this , A public affairs analyst, Mr Ige Oluwaseyi was of the opinion that government should not enforce this   because people had  the  right to life and their decisions.

He was also of the opinion that government should rather find solution to pertinent issues affecting the health system.

Also federal civil servants,Mrs Florence Anichukwu and Cecilia Oshin explained that they took the vaccine and only had some little reactions afterward .

Also speaking ,Mrs Adebola Deinde expressed dismay that government was enforcing vaccines for Covid-19 while other life threatening diseases were killing  people everyday

A public Health expert ,Dr Toyin Olajide said that Covid-19 spread could be  controlled and  tamed if Nigerians get the vaccine since it boost  immune system to fight the virus.

Many other respondents believed that, there should be community engagement  and interaction with traditional and religious leaders who had influence in encouraging societal development and integration before enforcing vaccination for the people.

Olufisoye Adenitan

Health

Covid-19: Why Every Civil Servants Must Be Vaccinated – FG

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According to him, the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Aviation will continue to dialogue with representatives of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to resolve the Emirates flights imbroglio.

“Compliance with protocols laid down for quarantine to ensure control remains a source of worry to the PSC. The need to review the protocols has become expedient to align with existing global protocols and realities,” he added.

On this note, the PSC will adopt a sustainable model and policy that will be unveiled soon. To begin with, India has been removed from the list of flagged countries in view of improved situation in that country,” he added.

In his speech, Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, confirmed reports of new corona virus mutations in some countries, hence Nigeria needed to monitor and respond appropriately.

He said points of entry, including land and sea borders, are to be more properly manned to check importation of the mutated variants.

salienttimesonline.com.ng

Economy

Ogun Residents Benefit from FG Conditional Cash Transfer Scheme

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The disbursement of monthly stipend of Five thousand naira to the poor and the vulnerable under The Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme of the Federal Government has commenced in Ogun state. 

The Program which was flagged off in Odeda local Government area By the State Government will benefit a total of nine thousand, five hundred and ninety three vulnerable people across the state.

Speaking at the Flag off, The Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mr Femi Ogunbanwo who said beneficiaries were  drawn from six local governments across the three senatorial districts of the State expressed the hope  that the program would improve household consumption and enhance the economy of the affected communities, among other benefits.

The Head, State Cash Transfer Unit, HUP-CCT, Mrs Olufunmilayo Soyoye-Baker said the scheme was designed to help beneficiaries graduate from poverty, prevent them from sinking further into poverty and build resilience to withstand shock and risks.

In the same vein, The Chairman Odeda Local Government, Mrs Folasade Soyinka expressed appreciation to the Federal And State Government for choosing Odeda as one of the benefitting Local Governments.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, a farmer, Mrs Sufiana Idowu who commended the state and the federal governments for the gesture said the fund would go a long way in boosting her agriculture business and her standard of living.

Modupeola Sobukonla

Environment

FG remains committed to fighting erosion – Senator Alasoadura

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The Federal government has expressed its commitment towards addressing devastating effects of erosion and floods in all parts of the country. 

The Minister of State for Niger Delta, Senator Tayo Alasoadura stated this at the inauguration and handing-over of the erosion control of flooded areas and road rehabilitation project in Owo, Ondo State.

Radio Nigeria correspondent, Kayode Animasaun reports that the project executed by the Federal government through the Ecological fund office was handed over to the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye on behalf of the community.

https://radionigeriaibadan.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/FG-FLOOD-PROJECT-REPORT.mp3

Kayode Animasaun

News

Gov. Abiodun Calls For Release Of Nigerian Activist

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Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State wants the Federal Government to immediately secure the release of a Nigerian Pastor, Kunle Garb who, according to him, is currently languishing in detention in Benin Republic.

Governor Abiodun who made the call in a statement in Abeokuta explained that Pastor Garb, a resident of Igbokofi village, Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, was abducted at the village market by Beninoise Police who crossed illegally into the Nigerian territory.

In the statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Kunle Somorin, Governor Abiodun described Pastor Garb as an activist who had consistently campaigned against incessant harassment of Nigerians by the Beninoise in the attempts to forcefully annex the Nigerian territory.

He also called for prompt action by the relevant Federal authorities to prevent further harassment of Nigerians and encroachment on the Nigerian territorial borders.

Governor Abiodun who also called on the National Boundary Commission to clearly demarcate Nigeria’s international borders with Benin Republic, urged Nigeria’s security agents to properly secure Nigerians in the border communities.

Bolanle Adesida

Security

Democracy Day: FG Declares Monday Public Holiday, Advocates Peace

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The Federal Government has declared Monday, June 14 as a public holiday to mark this year’s Democracy Day.
This is as the government warned against agitations capable of threatening the peace of the country.
The Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, was quoted to have said this in a statement on Wednesday by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Shuaib Belgore.
The minister urged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of brotherliness for peace to thrive in the nation
He also called on the citizens to support the present administration in its efforts at ensuring a united and prosperous nation.
The statement was titled, ‘FG declares Monday, June 14, 2021, public holiday to mark this year’s Democracy Day celebration.’
The statement read in part, “The Federal Government, congratulated Nigerians on this occasion and urged all citizens to support the present administration in its efforts at ensuring a united and prosperous nation.
“Aregbesola said any form of agitation that threatens the unity of the country should be shunned for the good of all, saying the space known as Nigeria would be a haven of peace, unity and progress if all citizens love his or her neighbour and embrace the spirit of brotherliness.
“As we mark another Democracy Day in the history of our dear country, let us reflect on the efforts of our founding fathers and ensure that Nigeria remains one united and indivisible entity.
“No development can take place in an acrimonious environment.
“With the challenges we face in Nigeria today, I see an opportunity for us not to break up or break down but to break open; open up to ourselves in truth so that we may appreciate each other, understand each other, honour each other and live together in peace and prosperity.
“There will surely be light at the end of the tunnel.

FRCN ABUJA

Transportation

Federal Government Pledges To Improve Transportation System

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Minister of Transportation Mr Rotimi Amaechi has inspected the level of work at the new Abeokuta Train Station in Ogun State, giving the assurance that arrangements has been concluded for the project’s inauguration by President Mohammadu Buhari.
Mr Amaechi was accompanied by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun during the inspection of facilities at the train terminal at Laderin  Estate Abeokuta.
While explaining that the Ministry would also increase the number of trains on Lagos Ibadan rail track, Mr Amaechi said that the federal government was committed to improving the transportation system in the country.
In a remark, Ogun State Governor, prince Dapo Abiodun who explained that the  project was in tandem  with his administration’s Transportation Master Plan, said that issues bordering on security and access road to the train terminal would be given priority.
Governor Abiodun promised that a  committee would be set up in collaboration with the federal ministry of Transportation to work out the modalities to further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the train service. 

Bolanle Adesida

Yoruba

Ìjọba Àpapọ̀ Sún Àsẹ Máà Sisẹ́ Látilé Síwájú Si

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Ìjọba àpapọ̀ orílẹ̀dè yíì ti sún àsẹ máà sisẹ́ rẹ̀ wá látilé fáwọn òsìsẹ́ ọba tó wá lákàsọ̀ kejì la sísàlẹ̀ síwájú si, gẹ́gẹ́bí ara ìgbésẹ̀ láti dènà ìtànkélẹ̀ kòkòrò àrùn covid-19 ẹlẹkeji nílẹ̀ Nàijírìa.

Gẹ́gẹ́ bálámojútó tó wà fọ́rọ̀ kòkòrò àrùn náà, nílẹ̀ yíì, ọ̀gbẹ́ni Mukhtar Mohammed sesọ níbi ìpàdé àwọn oníròyìn tó wáyé nílu Abuja pé, àwọn òsìsẹ́ ìjọba yóò sì tẹ̀síwájú lẹ́nu ìgbésẹ̀ máà sisẹ, rẹ̀ wa látilé, bẹ̀rẹ̀ lọ́jọ́ kọkànlá osù kẹfà, ọdún yíì lẹ́yìn èyí niwọ́n ni wọ́n tún sàgbéyẹ̀wò rẹ̀ padà.

Óní ó sepàtàkì fúnjọba láti dènà fífi ẹ̀mí àwọn èèyàn sòfò nílẹ̀ Nàijírìa.

Ọgbẹni Mohammadu wá sọpé, ìgbésẹ̀ kónílé ógbélé orooru bẹ̀rẹ̀ látòru àná, ni yóò máà bẹ̀rẹ̀ látáàgo méjìlá òru sáàgo mẹ́rin ìdájí lójóòjúmọ́.

Ọgbẹni Mohammadu wá sọ́ọ̀di mímọ̀ pé, àwọn àjọ aláàbo pátá gbọ́dọ̀ jígìrì sí ojúse báyíì, láti máà fẹsẹ òfin máà múlẹ̀ daindain.

Omolola Alamu/Folakemi Wojuade

Agriculture

FG Announces Plan to Establish Integrated Farm Estates in Ogun

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Federal Government has announced plans to establish Integrated Farm Estates in the three senatorial districts of Ogun State as part of efforts to create employment and boost food security in the country.

The Executive Secretary, National Agricultural Land Development Authority, NALDA Prince Paul Ikonne made this known when he paid a courtesy visit to the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta.

Prince Ikonne explained that Ogun State had been selected as one of the pilot states for the project, and called on the state government to provide suitable land for the smooth take off of the project.

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While noting that Ogun State had the highest capacity in cassava production, the Executive Secretary promised that the agency would also establish Gari processing plants in the State. 

Prince Ikonne, who said 700 hectares of land would be reactivated at Joga Orile community to boost food production, announced that the agency was training young Nigerians on soil testing, and Ogun State was expected to nominate 2, 000 people for the first phase of the programme.

Responding, Governor Dapo Abiodun gave the assurance that his administration would immediately release land to the agency and also set up a team to ensure the smooth take off of the project. 

Governor Abiodun also announced that about 70, 000 residents had been empowered in the agricultural sector through the implementation of the Anchor borrowers programme in the state.

Bolanle Adesida

Yoruba

Ijoba Apapo Seleri Atunse To Ye Lawon Ile Iwosan Ile Yii

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Aare Muhammadu Buhari ni ijoba apapo ti setan lati mu ironilagbara too ye baa eka eto ilera kake jado ile yii.

Aare Buhari eniti alakoso feto ilera, Dokita Osagie Ehanire n’ibi aprere kan nilu Jos n’ipinle Plateau, gboriyin fun ise takun takun awon dokita nile yii, laifi ti beka eto ilera seri se.

O wa bere fun atileyin egbe awon onisegun oyinbo nidi atungbedide eka eto ilera, eyiti yoo maa dahun si ibere ilera awon eeyan ile yii.

Aare nii, ijoba toun nlwaju ti nnawoo si idagabsoke eka naa fife awon ile iwosan toje tijoba apapo ati tipinle niti ibudo ifinwo tabi itoju ti ngbooro sii.

Nigba to wa n ro awon dokita lati fopin sii asaa iyanselodi lati pinwo ipaaseyin to nwaaye leka naa ati oofoo emi aare fikun pe ijoba apapo nilo atileyin gbogbo eeyan ile yii lati rialajupe eto ilera orileede nig naa kese jari.

Elizabeth Idogbe/Net

Agriculture

FG Commences Distribution of Farms

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The Federal government has commenced the distribution of farms to over 7500 smallholders Women Farmers in the North Central zone of the Country.

The gesture is aimed at improving Mechanized Farming, cushion the effect of Covid 19 among women farmers and increase Food Security in the Country.

Samuel Adeyinka reports that the Federal government through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development had rolled out similar events in nine States since June last year.

Since the outbreak of the Covid 19 pandemic, the Federal government and other Stakeholders in Agriculture Sector have been at the forefront of assisting people both in the formal and informal sectors, including Women farmers at the grassroots.

At the event, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Mohammed Sabo Nanono expressed optimism that the gesture would help to defeat hunger and improve infrastructure in the rural areas.

” It has been established that when you assist women, you a build a nation, there is no doubt that these inputs will reduce hunger and increase infrastructure at the rural Communities.” Alhaji Sabo Nanono said.

Similarly, the Minister of State for Agriculture, Mr Mustapha Shehuri who called on the Beneficiaries to use the farm implements judiciously, said the gesture would increase Food Security and Economy growth.

In a remark, the Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen stressed that women are contributing their quota in all Sectors of the Economy, and should be encouraged to do more.

One of the leaders of the Benefitted groups, Mrs Mary Afan who is the National President, Small Scale Women Farmers in Nigeria, described the provisions of the farm inputs as timely and thanked the Federal Government for the efforts.

Items distributed include Treadle Pumps,Maize Thresher, Groundnut Decorticator ,Cashew Seedling.

Others are Motorized Weeder, Solar Charcoal Stove and Cassava Stem.

Samuel Adeyinka