Politics

We can achieve more together than apart – Governor Abiodun

By Web News 623

People of Ogun State turned out in large numbers to celebrate Democracy Day in Abeokuta, the state capital with Governor Dapo Abiodun restating that Nigerians could achieve more together rather than clamouring for the division of the country. 

Governor Abiodun while addressing the gathering at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta, urged Nigerians to be united and embrace the symbolism of June 12.

Governor Abiodun who pointed out that June 12 Democracy Day would continue to strengthen the unity, indivisibility and oneness of Nigeria, expressed optimism that the nation would fulfill its potential among the comity of nations.

The governor also urged people of the state to go out en masse and exercise their civic duty during the forthcoming local government elections in the state.

While giving the assurance that the election would be free and fair, Governor Abiodun said his administration was committed to strengthening democratic principles and providing good governance.

In a remark, the speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, Mr Olakunle Oluomo noted that the late Chief MKO Abiola focused on poverty eradication during his lifetime, and urged government at all levels to continue to embark on programmes that would alleviate poverty in the country.

Bolanle Adesida

Politics

Those seeking to tear Nigeria apart will fail – Tinubu

By Web News 600

On this day, I join with all Nigerians in commemorating Democracy Day. The book of the life of this nation has many chapters already written and many more yet to be written.

One of the most profound and inspiring accounts that shall be written of our nation’s history will be the chapter on how we moved from the darkness of authoritarian military suppression into the light of democracy and the establishment of popular government based on the sovereign will of the people.

On this memorable day, we mark, with respect, and honor the sacrifices that have allowed democracy to come to pass. We also celebrate in anticipation of a future in which our democratic institutions, concepts and practices take firmer root; transforming this society from what it is to what it can be.

The pages of our national book inexorably turn. We have seen and experienced much. Victory and setback have entered and exited. The departure of friend and foe we have witnessed. The song of peace and unity we have sung as one national family while others have pounded the drums of war and hate. Laughter and sorrow, we have known.

Through it all, our gaze has remained fixed as if it were focused on a star in the firmament. Our road has remained certain for it is the only road we can reasonably tread. We have moved toward a better Nigeria and a greater democracy.

This path has not been without peril. There are many who care not for the journey we take. They embark on a different trek for they hold to a different concept of governance and of the relationship of government to the people.

They do not believe in a nation where every person therein has substantive rights, freedoms and liberties as God intended for all of his human creations regardless of place of birth, ethnic origin, social station or religious creed. These people hate democracy and despise you for choosing democracy over them and their oppressive ways.

They are violent and cold-hearted. They love nothing, save the destruction of the happiness and peace of others. They will not go away quietly or in consideration of the compelling logic of democratic governance.

Instead, they set us up in hopes of laying waste to the good society we seek to build. They levy terror against us in vain hope that their violent impositions might cause us to lose our way. They raze villages, destroy homes assault and kill innocent people. They even attack important symbols of a just society including religious institutions, schools of learning and INEC offices as if they can snuff out, through violence, mankind’s will to worship God, seek knowledge or engage in participatory governance.

However, with all that they do, they will not succeed. In trying to pluck a democratic and just society from our hands they are as mistaken as they are evil.

Our democracy was not here established to be destroyed by the terrible likes of people such as these. Those who sacrificed their lives for democracy did not give of themselves so that we would be turned back by terrorists or by those who seek to tear the nation asunder just so they might imperially rule over some small part of it.

Despite the troubles we face, and those troubles are serious, we must stand up for democracy lest we shall find ourselves falling to oblivion. Democratic good governance offers the only reasonable solution to the challenges confronting Nigeria.

Thus, we must stand for democracy today. We must stand for it even more tomorrow. Ask this question 10, 20, 100 years from now, the answer must remain the same: the people of Nigeria stand for democracy and stand against that which would chase democracy from our land.

Thus, we stand against those who traffic in insurrection and violence. We stand against those whose commerce is bigotry and hatred. We contend against those who would render the people ignorant and poor.

We stand for a better way. We celebrate Democracy Day not only because we have come far but to help give us the social fuel and encouragement to continue onward because we have farther to go and even greater things to achieve as one nation and one people.

On this day, let us remember MKO Abiola whose victory in the June 12th 1993 presidential election was stolen from him. Yet he remained steadfast and surrendered his own life so that we all might enjoy the democratic victory that was taken from him. Without his historic effort and sacrifice, this day would not be democracy day. It would be a downcast and disappointing one. Let us also remember all others who also sacrificed so much to bring democracy to this land.

We best honor these people not by reciting their names but by injecting the spirit and hope of democracy into our words and deeds. In becoming better democrats, we also become better at being Nigerians.

I wish all of you a meaningful and happy Democracy Day.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

June 11, 2021.

Politics

Full Text Of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Democracy Day Speech

By Web News 604

Speech By His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, President And Commander In Chief Of The Armed Forces Federal Republic Of Nigeria On The Occasion Of Commemoration And Celebration Of Democracy Day On 12th June, 2021

Fellow Nigerians,

I join you all today to commemorate and celebrate our Democracy Day.  It is a celebration of freedom and a victory for one people, one country and one Nigeria.

2. As with all democracies we will always be going through improvement processes in our desire to reach the goal of a mature democracy, a strong, evolved and integrated nation state to be reckoned with globally.

3. In the last two years we have witnessed and overcome a good number of testy challenges that would have destroyed other nations especially relating to our collective security.

4. The indefatigable CAN DO Spirit of the Nigerian has sustained us and would keep pushing us to put these challenges behind us.

5.  Unfortunately some of these challenges came in the shape of violent outrages leading to the loss of lives of many of our dear compatriots and the destruction of some of our infrastructure, including those devoted to improving our democratic processes.

6. Once again, I want to render my sincere and heart-felt condolences to the families and friends of our gallant service men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty and as a sacrifice to keep Nigeria safe.

7. I extend the same condolence to the families and friends of our country men, women and children who were unfortunate victims of such senseless arsons, kidnappings and murders.

8. I also share the pains of families and direct victims of ransom-seeking, kidnaped victims who went through unimaginable trauma in the course of their forced imprisonment.

9. Let me assure my fellow citizens that every incident, however minor gives me great worry and concern and I immediately order security agencies to swiftly but safely rescue victims and bring perpetrators to justice.

Fellow Nigerians,

10.  When you elected me as your President in 2015, you did so knowing that I will put an end to the growing insecurity, especially the insurgency in the North East, but the unintended consequences of our scattering them in the North East pushed them further in-country which is what we are now facing and dealing with.

11. We will, by the Grace of God put an end to these challenges too.

12. Unfortunately, like in most conflict situations, some Nigerian criminals are taking undue advantage of a difficult situation and profiteering therefrom with the misguided belief that adherence to the democratic norms handicaps this Administration from frontally and decisively tackling them. 

13. We are already addressing these obstacles and we will soon bring some of these culprits to justice.

14. We are, at the same time addressing the twin underlying drivers of insecurity namely poverty and youth unemployment.

15.  Interventions led by Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria driving economic growth over the past 6 years are targeted mostly to the agricultural, services, infrastructure, power and health care sectors of the economy.

16. In the Agricultural sector, for instance, the Anchor Borrowers Programme resulted in sharp decline in the nation’s major food import bill from $2.23billion in 2014 to US$0.59billion by the end of 2018.

17. Rice import bill alone dropped from $1 billion to $18.5 million annually.

18. This initiative supported local production of rice, maize, cotton and cassava. Government financed 2.5 million small-holder farmers cultivating about 3.2 million hectares of farmland all over the country and created 10 million direct and indirect jobs.

19. Several other initiatives, namely AgriBusiness/Small and Medium Enterprise Investment Scheme, the Non-oil Export stimulation Facility, the Targeted Credit Facilities operated across the 774 Local Governments.

20. In the manufacturing sector the CBN – BOI N200 billion facility financed the establishment and operations of 60 new industrial hubs across the country, creating an estimated 890,000 direct and indirect jobs.

21. The CBN’s N50 billion Textile Sector intervention Facility increased capacity utilization of ginneries from 30% to nearly 90%.

22. The Economic Sustainability Plan – our rebound plan for the COVID-19 pandemic developed in 2020 is currently being executed. The plan is primarily focused on the non-oil sector, which has recorded phenomenal growth contributing over 90% to the GDP growth in Q1 2021.

23. Though marginal we have recorded GDP growth over two quarters; Q2 2020 and Q1 2021.  This is evidence of a successful execution of the ESP by the Federal Government.

24. My vision of pulling 100 million poor Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years has been put into action and can be seen in the National Social Investment Programme, a first in Africa and one of the largest in the world where over 32.6m beneficiaries are taking part. We now have a National Social register of poor and vulnerable households, identified across 708 local government areas, 8,723 wards and 86,610 communities in the 36 States and the FCT.

25. Our conditional cash transfer program has benefited over 1.6 million poor and vulnerable households comprising more than 8 million individuals. This provides a monthly stipend of N10,000 per household.

26. I have also recently approved the National Poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy Plan that augments existing plans to further reduce poverty in Nigeria.

27. As at the end of 2020, the Development Bank of Nigeria had disbursed 324 billion Naira in loans to more than 136,000 MSMEs, through 40 participating Financial Institutions. I am to note that 57% of these beneficiaries are women while 27% are the youth.

28. We are able to do all these and still accelerate our infrastructure development through sensible and transparent borrowing, improved capital inflow, improving and increasing revenue through capturing more tax bases and prudent management of investment proceeds in the Sovereign Wealth Fund.

Fellow Nigerians,

29. Our infrastructure revolution continues with key projects attaining critical milestones under the Presidential Infrastructure Development Fund; The Second Niger Bridge, The Lagos- Ibadan Expressway and the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Expressway.

30. I have also approved the establishment of Infraco Plc, a world-class infrastructure development vehicle wholly focused on Nigeria with a capital structure of N15 trillion.

31. The rail system is not left out as the Itakpe-Warri standard gauge rail was completed and commissioned 33 years after construction began. The Lagos-Ibadan double track railway line which I have just commissioned has commenced operations. 

32. We are focused on ensuring that our infrastructure drive is key to economic growth and one that can be felt by every Nigerian. Building critical infrastructure in our ports is also opening up opportunities for the Nigerian economy. 

33. My approval for 4 new seaports using a Public-Private-Partnership approach is hinged on growing the Nigerian economy. These four sea ports; Lekki Deep Sea Port, Bonny Deep Sea Port, Ibom Deep Sea Port and Warri Deep Sea port will create massive job opportunities and foreign investment inflows.

34. We have worked at deepening our Eastern ports leading to success like having three container ships berth at Calabar port, a first in 11 years.  Similarly, on October 30 2019, an LPG tanker operated by NLNG berthed in Port Harcourt, the first time an LPG ship is berthing at any of the Eastern Ports.

35. As we invest in these new assets, we have also made strides in ensuring that they are secured and protected. In this regard I am also pleased to note the launch of the NIMASA Deep Blue project – which is an Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure that I recently commissioned. This initiative is designed to add to the layer of security we have to safeguard our maritime sector.

Dear Nigerians,

36. I will be the first to admit that in spite of our efforts and achievements which are there for all to see, there is still much more to be done and we are doing our best in the face of scarce resources and galloping population growth rate that consistently outstrips our capacity to provide jobs for our populace. Our over-all economic target of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years is our goal notwithstanding COVID-19.

37. In the last two years we lifted 10.5 million people out of poverty – farmers, small-scale traders, artisans, market women and the like.

38. I am very convinced that this 100 million target can be met and this informed the development of a National poverty Reduction with Growth Strategy. The specific details of this accelerated strategy will be unveiled shortly.

39. In the last one year, Nigeria and the whole world faced COVID-19 for which no one was fully prepared.

40. Our response to the pandemic involved making hard choices in balancing livelihoods and public health concerns.  You are all living witnesses to how successful this has been due to a number of pro-active measures put in place.  Our response to COVID-19 is globally acclaimed.

41. We were able to ensure that the various lockdown measures did not impact too negatively on the ability of ordinary Nigerians to continue sustaining their livelihoods.

42. During the pandemic, we disbursed N5, 000 to 1 million Nigerians using a Rapid Response Register and advanced N20,000 to 750,000 beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer Progamme and provided 1.37 million Nigerians with palliatives from CACOVID.

43. At the same time the Federal Government released 109,000 metric tonnes of food reserve stocks and 70,000 metric tonnes of grains to the poor and vulnerable in all 36 states of the federation.

44. In addition, Government reduced interest rates from 9% to 5% for struggling businesses and extended credit facilities to 548,345 beneficiaries.

Fellow Nigerians,

45. When this administration decided to change our Democracy Day from 29th May to June 12th in my first tenure, it was not only to honour the sacrifices of the men and women of our country who fought for the return to democracy but also to demonstrate our commitment to satisfy the aspirations of the people and creating an environment for democracy to be an accepted way of life.

46. As your President, I remain committed to providing an enabling environment for a free, fair and credible electoral system under my tenure.

47. However, you need to play your part by getting involved at any level you can supporting a democratic system that works for all and not for a section or a select few and demand accountability from your elected leaders.

48. My commitment to bequeathing a sustainable democratic culture remains resolute, my pursuit of a fair society remains unshaken and my desire to see that Nigeria remains a country for each and every one of us has never been stronger.

49. In responding to the challenges that this period imposes on us, Government also recognises the need to acknowledge notions of marginalisation and agitations for constitutional amendments among various segments of our population. 

50. While this government is not averse to constitutional reform as part of our nation building process, everyone must understand that the primary responsibility for constitutional amendments lies with the National Assembly.

51. This body which, as I said, is the arm of government responsible for constitutional changes has concluded the preliminary stages of amending and improving our constitution in a way that the majority of Nigerians will be happy with.

52. Government is, however, willing to play a critical role in the constitutional amendment process without usurping the powers of the National Assembly in this regard.

53. As a nation we have come very far from where we started and we are getting incrementally closer to where we ought to be.

54. Overcoming the present challenges is but one of a necessary process that we have to undergo as a nation so that we can come out stronger.  The day I joined the Nigerian Army I was prepared to lay down my life for Nigeria.

55. As your President I remain ever committed to upholding and defending Nigeria’s corporate existence.

56. In adhering to the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy notably section 14(2)(b) I shall do all within my power to ensure that the Security and welfare of the people remain the primary purpose of government.

57. I have, throughout my tenure, provided the security agencies with all they require relative to available resources and will be providing more as the dynamics unfold to put an end to our security problems.

58. My strong belief in the Nigerian spirit gives me comfort that we are facing these challenges with renewed commitment to keep our country one.

59. I thank you for your patience and attention and more importantly your resolve to join hands in making Nigeria the country of our dream.

Happy Democracy Day!

God Bless us All,

God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Politics

Governor Makinde Advocates Peace Amongst Nigerians

By Web News 564

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has said that Nigerians must imbibe peaceful coexistence and religious harmony to enhance development in the country.
The governor, who spoke at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan, during a visit by the former Emir of Kano, Sheikh Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, who now leads the Tijaniyya Islamic Sect of Nigeria, said that without peace, justice and harmonious living, development may elude the country.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the  governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, lauds the former Emir for being courageous to champion the course of peace, unity and harmonious existence at this critical time in the nation’s history.
He urged the new leader of the Tijaniyya society to always preach religious harmony to all parts of Nigeria.
The former Emir of Kano, Sheikh Sanusi, in his speech, told the governor that he was in the state to meet with members of the Tijaniyyah sect.
He said that he has taken it as his duty to do everything within his powers to preach peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
According to him, the Tijaniyyah sect, which he now leads, has a 70 million strong population, adding that the sect would continue to work for peace, unity and development in Nigeria.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

Governor Makinde Reacts To FG’s Suspension Of Twitter’s Operations

By Web News 571

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged the Federal government to reverse its suspension of popular social media platform, Twitter’s operations in Nigeria.

Governor Makinde who made the appeal posted via his twitter handle, noted that a lot of Nigerian youths, businesses and digital communication companies would be negatively affected by the suspension.

Governor Seyi Makinde’s statement in full

It has become imperative for me to release a statement regarding the suspension of Twitter’s operations in Nigeria by the Federal Government.

As leaders, we should go beyond emotional reactions to issues and think about how our actions will affect the people we lead and our international ratings socially and economically. 

Twitter has become the platform for young people and indeed all Nigerians to exercise their fundamental right to express and publish an opinion. They use the platform to complain, argue and give feedback to government and its agencies who in turn, use these to improve policies.

This is a fundamental point that should be kept in mind as we debate the necessity of this suspension.

We should also remember that Twitter has gone beyond a source of communication for many of our hardworking youths in Nigeria.

It has become a source of livelihood for many, irrespective of their political affiliations or religious leanings.

Nigerian youths and digital communications organisations earn a living from being able to use the platform to post communications on behalf of their clients.

Others who may not have physical stores also rely on Twitter to give visibility to their products and services.

Furthermore, I believe the Federal Government should be actively interested in how certain policies and action will affect investor confidence.

I, therefore, use this medium to appeal to the Federal Government to reverse this suspension for the greater good of Nigerians.

Seyi Makinde

Politics

Group Canvasses Unity Of Nigeria

By Web News 678

Political Awareness Group,  PAG has called on agitators of secession to sheath their swords and work for the unity of the country in the interest of all.

This is contained in a communique issued at the stakeholders summit organised by the group, an Association of Muslim Professionals and Technocrats for Good Governance and

signed by its Chairman, Barrister Abdul-Waheed Olowonjaye.

The group noted that instead of call for secession what should be paramount was the need to join hands with the Federal Government to find lasting solutions to various challenges facing the country.

PAG enjoined people to work for the progress of the country stressing that Nigeria should remain one indivisible country and her unity should not be negotiable.

The group maintained that Nigerians should intensify prayers to rescue the country from  evil forces who are hell bent in destabilising the country.

PAG believed that Good Governance, Equity and Justice are essential ingredients for Security, Peace and Progress of the country.

The group urged political office holders to see their position as a trust, which would  be accounted for, emphasizing that non-fulfilment of campaign promises is a wicked act.

PAG explained that as 2023 general election gathers momentum, the electorate should be wiser so as to differentiate between fake politicians and those who have the interests of the masses at heart. 

The group reiterated its determination to use all its resources to support  individuals that share its agenda of good governance and are eyeing elective posts from councillorship to the presidency in the next political dispensation. 

PAG supported the ongoing process to review the 1999 constitution but would mobilize against any attempt to alienate Shariah  laws from the constitution. 
Ridwan Fasasi.

News

Importance Of Inculcating Sex Education In Schools Curriculum

By Web News 1451

In recent times, children from age two to eighteen have become victims of harassment, molestation and violation as a result of sexual abuse by their opposite sex.

From the records of the United Nations Children Education Fund, UNICEF Nigeria, six out of ten children in Nigeria experience emotional, physical or sexual abuse before the age of 18 while one in four girls and ten percent of boys have been victims of sexual violence.

Unfortunately, it has been proven that these sexual abuse offenders are usually persons close to their victims, either by virtue of being a friend, relative, neighbor, uncle, aunt, teacher and father as the case may be.

Many of these violators lured their victims and take advantage of them, perhaps because of their victims’ age, and their little or no knowledge about issues relating to sexuality and human sexual anatomy.

While some of these offenders get prosecuted, many of them escape punishment for some reasons that may include cultural and family factor, ignorance and parents’ inability to report such cases to authorities for financial constraints or fear of stigmatization.

With these ugly development, it has become imperative for relevant authorities to map out modalities of educating the children of their body safety rules and possible ways of responding to moves from prospective violators.

One of the ways to achieve this, is to inculcate the sexuality education into the curriculum of the Nigerian educational system right from the nursery school, which should be taught by only specially-trained teachers. 

However, to get the desired result as a result of inculcating sexuality education in schools, the course should be taught as a subject on its own which should also focus on the importance of reporting to higher authorities either by the child or parents immediately there are advances from child violators.

Inculcating gender behavioral pattern into this scope of study will not only go a long way at establishing the right manner of behavior between boys and girls in the minds of the pupil, but expose them to understanding the contributions nature and environmental influence have on gender diversity.

Similarly, it is advisable that this teaching should be aided with songs, rhymes and instructional materials with pictorial display about the safety of their private parts, educating each child to know that sexual offenders initiate their immoral act through touching of the sensitive parts of their bodies.

The federal and state Ministries of Education should also mandate public and private nursery and primary schools, even to tertiary level to ensure they raise awareness among the pupils against pedophiles, especially their methods of perpetrating evil.

Sex education as a subject should not only be adopted in schools but should be widely embraced by religious organizations for children in mosques and churches in order to teach them more about sexuality.

Children should be made to understand that no one has the right to look at or make them look at someone else’s private part, they should not stay in isolated places with people and should not keep secret from their parents.

Parents also should endeavor to be friends with their children to encourage the children in talking to them about issue bothering them.

Above all, the protection of the minor from sexual abuse or molestation is a collective responsibility of the government, non-governmental organizations, religious and traditional leaders, parents and the society at large.

We must rise up to nip child sexual abuse in the bud by saying something whenever we see something.

Mosope Kehinde

News Analysis

The Worsening Electricity Supply In Nigeria

By Web News 831

Those who brought the Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, and turned it into electricity distribution companies owe Nigerians one vital explanation.

They must tell the people what has happened with the discos since the ownership changed hands.

Yes, this has become imperative because the cry of ‘give us electricity’, ‘restore power supply’, ‘we are tired of darkness’ and ‘where is electricity‘ are some of the popular slogans in the mouth of Nigerians.

Successive governments in Nigeria have spent billions of naira to fix the power sector without any tangible result.

Up to this moment, in almost all parts of Nigeria, supply of electricity is epileptic and nothing to write home about.

Lack of regular electricity supply has brought sadness to millions of Nigerians and paralysed socioeconomic activities.

While some countries like Ghana are giving good testimony about constant supply of electricity, it is not the same in Nigeria.

Yet, electricity distribution companies keep bringing crazy and highly inflated bills every month for services not provided to the consumers.

Yet, year in, year out, the federal government is fond of increasing electricity tariff making Nigerians pay more for the inefficiency of some stakeholders in the power sector.

Recently, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, NERC, hinted at another hike in electricity tariff to commence in July this year.

This is uncalled for as additional hike on Nigerians who have been traumatised by lack of electricity for so long.

Efforts should rather be concentrated to improve power supply and save Nigerians from total darkness.

Nigerians felt highly relieved with the privatisation of the energy sector not knowing that unending agony and lamentation over poor electricity supply had just begun.

This is quite unfortunate.

Nigerians deserve the right to be served well.

As citizens, they should have equal access to power like citizens of other countries.

Corruption in the power sector which has been a clog in the wheel of progress should be tackled for a stable electricity supply in the country.

Nigerians are yet to adequately benefit from democratic dispensation, especially the power sector which is key to industrialization.

If the federal government fixes the country’s electricity problem, seventy-five percent of unemployed graduates will have jobs and become employers of labour.

Solar energy as an alternative source of electricity should be pursued vigorously and made available to the people at an affordable price. 

Tayo Sanni

News Analysis

World Tuberculosis Day 2021…The Clock is Ticking

By Web News 847

Tuberculosis, TB, is a contagious infection that usually attacks lungs and also spreads to other parts of the body, like brain and spine.


It is a type of bacteria called mycobacterium.


Due to the nature of the disease, every 24th of March is commemorated as the World Tuberculosis Day.


It is a day set aside to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic consequences of tuberculosis, and to step up efforts to end the global tuberculosis epidemic.


The date marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch announced that he had discovered the bacterium that causes tuberculosis, which opened the way towards diagnosing and curing the disease.


The day was created by the World Health Organization, WHO, to spread knowledge and awareness of tuberculosis, an infectious disease that kills millions every year.


Tuberculosis is easily curable, but it can lie dormant and undetected for years.


Recently, according to the Coordinator, National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme, Dr. Chukwuma Anyaike Nigeria has been ranked number one in Africa and sixth in the world on the Tuberculosis Mobility Index.


He explained that Nigeria accounts for 11% of the global gap between TB incidences and notified cases.


Dr. Chukwuma noted that out of 440,000 estimated new TB cases in Nigeria in 2019, only 120,266 were reported to the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme with 27% treatment coverage.


It is estimated that close to three million people with TB are not diagnosed or reported annually around the world.


The Covid-19 pandemic is in its second year and is unfortunately taking increasing medical resources and attention away from providing necessary life-saving diagnosis, medicine and care to people suffering from tuberculosis (TB).


The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that people with TB are among the most marginalized and vulnerable, facing barriers in accessing care.


This is alarming as every single day 4,000 people die and 27,000 people get sick with TB.


TB remains the biggest infectious killer disease that really needs attention.


However, Nigeria has a lot to do as it has less than two years left to fulfill W.H.O’s promises and take action on the commitments made at the United Nations High-Level Meeting (UNHLM) on TB in 2018.
Despite the high rate of TB in some countries the W.H.O. through its global interventions has saved 63 million lives from the scourge.


The theme for this year’s TB day – “The clock is ticking” – conveys the sense that the world is running out of time to act on the commitments to end TB made by global leaders.


As W.H.O. is calling for action on several fronts to ensure that the commitments made to end TB are achieved, Nigeria needs to borrow a leave from developed countries that had won the battle.


To curtail the spread of tuberculosis in Nigeria, there is need for innovative approaches to TB, detecting new cases, arresting them through treatment and avoiding stigmatization as a strategy.


Also government, NGOs, health workers and other stakeholders must join the efforts of changing Nigeria’s negative record and fighting the menace before 2022.


It is imperative for Nigeria to follow W.H.O. new guidelines on TB systematic screening along with an accompanying operational guide.


Nigerians should not take TB for granted as it is deadly and has no respect for any person whether rich or poor though there is hope if people do the right thing to arrest the menace in the country.


Ending TB, requires concerted action by all sectors to provide the right services, support and enabling safe environment in the right place, at the right time.


Above all, everyone has a role to play in ending TB, do your part!


Olukemi Akintunde

Religion

Prayer is also vital for national healing -Rev. Akanji

By Web News 682


Christians have been urged to intensify prayer for divine intervention in Nigeria to overcome its numerous challenges.


The General Overseer, World Outreach Revival Centre, WOREC, Reverend Dr Peter Akanji stated this during the 7th Life and Power Thanksgiving Service and 4th Convocation of World Changers Bible College of the church held in Ibadan.

Reverend Akanji said Nigeria the country was currently confronted by numerous socioeconomic challenges such as kidnapping, corruption and right abuses, hence the need for prayers.
The cleric noted that intense prayer was vital for Nigeria and its leaders to over the present cyclic crises.


Rev. Akanji explained that graduands of the church’s Bible college had gone through the rigours of doctrinal training while new intake would undergo various years of theological studies to assume leadership role in church administration.
Speaking on the theme of the conference, ‘Supernatural Shift’, the guest speaker, Prophet Funso Akande, pointed out that divine elevation can only be achieved when an individual is closer to God.
High point of the event was the administration of oath on the graduands, presentation of gifts, and special song ministration by the church’s choir.


Rotimi Famakin

Health

Ooni Unveils Indigenous Covid-19 Drug

By Web News 786

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi has unveiled an indigenous drug for the cure and prevention of viral infections. 

The drug named, Verozil which is available in capsules, blisters packs, and liquid was certified by the body regulating sales and use of drugs in Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). 

Speaking during the launch at the Banquet Hall of Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife, Oba Ogunwusi said, it was a great day and privilege to unveil indigenous medicines noting that its potency had been tested and confirmed by government regulatory bodies.  

The monarch hinted that the herbal medications had been administered on lots of COVID-19 patients to boost their immune system including political leaders, noting that as the world celebrates the COVID-19 vaccine, Nigeria people are also unveiling indigenous solutions.

Earlier, in the address of a prominent herbal medicine practitioner, Chief Akintunde Ayeni, who worked in conjunction with the palace on the medications revealed that the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi phoned him during the first wave of COVID-19 and inquired from him what he was doing in respect of the deadly virus.

He said Oba Adeyeye sent him some recipes that they could use in making indigenous supplement to fight COVID-19 which he studied and gave birth to what was being launched. 

Also, the Senior Special Assistant, SSA, to the President on Job Creation and Youth Employment in the Office of the Vice President of Nigeria, Mr Afolabi Imoukhuede, in his goodwill messages commended Oba Adeyeye for his commitment to local contents and passion for National development.

Adenitan Akinola

Lifestyle

The Next Generation Needs To Learn Our Mother Tongue – Respondents

By Web News 630

There is the need for government at all levels to preserve mother language by promoting the teaching and learning of the language at the early stage of a child’s life.

This formed the summary of contributions from a cross-section of people who spoke with Radio Nigeria in Abeokuta on the occasion of this year’s International Mother Language Day.

Olajumoke Idowu has the rest of the story.

Olajumoke Idowu

Lifestyle

Respect one another, project the country’s values – Ogun NOA Boss

By Web News 649

Nigerians have been encouraged to cherish their status as true citizens by projecting the country’s values and respecting the rights of one another, even as the nation battles the coronavirus pandemic and other challenges. 

Ogun State Director of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mr Sola Babalola made the call in Abeokuta while speaking with Radio Nigeria on the agency’s citizens campaign with the theme, “Building a people of peace: fall in love with Nigeria”. 

Staff Reporter, Oluwatoyin Adegoke has the rest of the story.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Politics

Media Should Be Used To Promote Good Governance – Muhammed Onogwu

By Web News 595

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, Mr. Muhammed Onogwu has urged social media users to ensure that the Social Media space was being used to promote good governance.

Mr Onogwu said this while delivering an address after he was conferred with an Award of Kogi Social Media Man of Honour.

He noted that Social Media has become a veritable and effective platform for the citizens to make demands on good governance, express concerns and demand justice.

He added that with over three billion social media users cutting across the globe, young persons who formed the larger percentage have relentlessly found the platform as a safe bay to speak their minds and express their opinions for or against an individual, organisation or government.

Mr. Onogwu submitted that the abuse of the Social Media has a more damaging impact on governance as well as other very crucial aspect of the society and human endeavours noting that a larger part of the dangers relating to the social Media are majorly human flaws and inputs.

He urged residents of the state to use Social Media to promote the state developments to the world.

Olaolu Fawole

Religion

Delta First Lady Calls on Nigerians to Be Prayerful

By Web News 893

The wife of Delta State Governor Dame Edith Okowa, has called for increased national spiritual consciousness in light of recent challenges facing the nation.

Mrs. Okowa stated this at the Government House in Asaba, during the 6th edition of the Annual Mothers Arise Programme with the theme Faith for all Season.

She urge the citizenry to make decisions with eternity in view, while asserting that a spiritual awakening was needed to attain life-long victories.

On the COVID-19 pandemic the Governor’s wife admonished people to observe the protocols, noting despite the deadly nature of the virus it could be defeated if the citizenry follow the rules such as physical distancing and regular washing of hands.

Meanwhile, in a sermon, the Guest Speaker Pastor Blessing Ameachi, stressed that people need to exercise faith to overcome challenges bedeviling the nation, nothing with faith everything is possible as a Christian.

The annual event which attracted women dignitaries, was characterized by prayers for the family, the church and the nation.

Eghweree Oghenero

News Analysis

World Cancer Day 2021: Reducing Deaths From Cancer

By Web News 1365

Cancer, a chronic disease characterized by uncontrollable growth and spread abnormal cells in the body is fast becoming a big health epidemic in Nigeria.

 Statistics from the World Health Organisation, W.H.O., revealed that eighty thousand Nigerians die from cancer yearly while two hundred and forty people die from the disease every day. 

Data from the W.H.O. also showed that Nigeria has the highest cancer death rate in Africa and one hundred thousand new cancer cases are diagnosed every year globally.

Cancer patients experience excruciating pains, grapple with problems such as high cost of treatment, discrimination, abandonment and lack of prompt access to care.

Unfortunately, due to inadequate information about the disease, those diagnosed often believe it was the end of life.

This belief most times leaves those suffering from cancer distressed and sometimes depressed.

Some also withdraw from families and society to avoid stigmatisation while others lose confidence and self-esteem.

It has been proven that early detection of cancer could save people from the stress of coming down with its complications.

For instance, when women notice small painless lumps in the breast or difficulty in urination by men, it should be critically examined by professionals to ensure that it is not cancerous.

It is for this reason that February 4th is set aside to raise awareness and to encourage prevention as well as treatment of cancer.

The goal of the day led by the Union for International Cancer Control is to significantly reduce illness and death caused by cancer.

It also serves as an opportunity to rally international communities to end the injustice of preventable suffering from cancer.

The theme for this year “I Am And I Will” is about the actions that would lead to progress in reducing the global impact of cancer.

So every action no matter big or small would make lasting positive change.

Sadly, the global COVID-19 pandemic has affected activities of most organisations involved in cancer control, treatment and management.

Despite this setback, however, the cancer community has continued to show resilience in providing services in terms of screening, diagnosis and treatment.

It is important therefore for government to continue to invest in the control of cancer as well as its management.

The National Health Insurance Scheme, NHIS, should be extended to cover all Nigerians.

Also, the cost of chemotherapy treatment which is on the high side should be reviewed.

There is need to train more specialists in the oncology field to increase access to care by cancer patients.

Furthermore, government should provide good diagnostic centres with increased capacity to reduce waiting period for treatment.

Pressure should be mounted by stakeholders on the producers of cancer drugs to manufacture them in Nigeria for easy accessibility.

Increased vaccination of girls against human papilloma virus, HPV, will also reduce the incidences of cervical cancer.

Individuals on their part should desist from lifestyle that could expose them to the risk of cancer, such as smoking, having multiple sexual partners, eating wrong diets, processed foods and use of oral contraceptives for a long period.

The theme, “I Can And I Will” is a clarion call for everyone to collectively reduce deaths from cancer.

Anthonia Akanji

Agriculture

Don Calls For Proper Monitoring Of Agricultural Sector

By Web News 1144

An agriculture expert, Dr Saheed Adetumbi has called on government at all levels to always monitor facilities, products and funds given to farmers to ensure optimal performance in the agricultural sector.

Dr Adetunmbi who is a lecturer at the department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, Ogbomoso made the call while speaking with Radio Nigeria in Ogbomoso.

The agriculture expert who said successive administrations had made efforts on agriculture, expressed the worry that leaders had failed to track and trace funds allocated to the sector.

“Most of the giant strides achieved today were made from proceeds of agriculture, from Liberty Stadium to Cocoa House, Obafemi Awolowo University, but since oil came, everybody became lazy. Now that we are reverting to agriculture, I think things should be better and it can be better if we invest more in agriculture.”
“Like we all know, we have almost exhausted the oil we have, and agriculture is all we have to buffer the economy”Adetunmbi said.

Dr Adetunmbi submitted that proper monitoring was key in the area of agricultural production to ensure that products got to the real end users.

While urging government and well to do Nigerians to invest more in agriculture, the expert advised them to shun the idea of empowering people with motorcycles and other equipment which had no impact on the agricultural value chain.

Dr Adetunmi also advised the youths to channel their energy and resourcefulness towards agriculture rather than seeking the limited white collar jobs.

Adedayo Adelowo

Politics

Government Needs Nigerians’ Support To Tackle Insecurity Properly – Falade

By Web News 727

A statesman, Mr Ajibade Falade has described the spate of banditry in the country as extremely alarming.

He stated this while speaking with Radio Nigeria in Ejigbo,Osun State.

Mr Falade while noting that kidnappings, armed robbery and ritual killings were alien to the Nigerian culture, said the problems of insecurity required urgent attention.

The politician explained that the introduction of Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed Amotekun was laudable, urging all and sundry to give it adequate support.

Mr Falade submitted that the task was too enormous for government alone to solve, urging all traditional and community leaders to also get actively involved in the fight against insecurity.

The statesman also identified political restructuring as the required therapy for the progress of the country.

Adedayo Adelowo

Education

Reactions Trail Suspension Of ASUU Strike

By Web News 715

On March 23 when the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, began its industrial action, many students felt it was not going to last long but this was not the case as the strike lingered beyond earlier expectations.


Several meetings and discussions between the federal government and ASUU deadlocked, a situation that caused most students and parents serious distress.


Different protests and Social media campaigns were launched to pressure ASUU into ending the strike action.


After eight long months after, the industrial action has eventually been called off.
How did the students receive the news and what were their expectations?


A cross-section of university students in Ibadan gave different submissions.


Some parents who spoke with Radio Nigeria called on ASUU to ensure academic activities resume intensively in order to make up for lost time.


The parents also expressed worry that the length of the industrial action would impact negatively on the lives of the students.
They also implored the students to focus on their education.


An educationist, Dr Fasasi noted that calling off the strike was good news but urged school authorities to maintain a normal calendar for qualitative education.


He then urged the government to always honour its agreements with the union while advising the unions to be considerate in their demands.


Dr Fasasi also charged students be more dedicated and diligent in their academics.

Adedayo Adelowo

Economy

No Room for Substandard, Fake Products – SON

By Web News 637

Standard Organisation of Nigeria, S.O.N says it will no longer tolerate those who promote cloned brands in Nigeria.

This is in a bid to checkmate fake and substandard goods that have flooded the market.

The Director General, S.O.N, Mallam Faruk Saliu made this known when some traders from lagos state paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja.

Mallam Saliu also explained that the agency would discourage the registration of products with similar business names.

According to him, the agency would work with stakeholders to sensitize the business community on the need to ensure safety and standard, warning that unscrupulous individuals found guilty of selling substandard products would be prosecuted

Kayode Banjo

Crime

Edo Joint Security Taskforce Nabs suspected kidnappers

By Web News 970

Edo State Joint Security Taskforce at the weekend raided the Upper Sakponba area of Benin City and combed riverine communities, leading to the arrest of suspected kidnappers terrorising the state.

The suspected kidnappers, comprising seven males, were arrested around Ogbemudia oil palm plantation on Saturday, barely 24 hours after the taskforce kicked into action.

Prior to the operation, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Omozoje, had intimated Governor Godwin Obaseki on their activity in the state, promising to bring a halt to the recent rise in criminality and lend support to efforts at capturing fleeing escapees from the two federal correctional facilities in Benin City, the state capital.

Maj. Gen. Omozoje also met with heads of security agencies in the state, making a case on the need for synergy among the agencies with a view to restoring peace and order in the state.

On their operations in the riverine communities and other hotspots, he said: “Troops of the 4 brigade are on clearance operation at suspected kidnappers hideouts at Ogbemudia oil palm plantation and the river behind it. We intend to disrupt all kidnapping activities along the axis and secure the Benin-Auchi Expressway.”

He also noted that several escaped prisoners and criminal gang leaders have been arrested, as the taskforce is focused on ensuring a reduction in crime in Benin metropolis and environs.

He added that he is in synergy with the Commander 4 Brigade, Brig. Gen. UM Bello, and the Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Zone 5, Mr. Sola Davis.

Religion

Cleric Advices Christians to Awaken Their Political Consciousness

By Web News 659

Restructuring Nigeria, as well as the need for christians to develope more interest in business, security and politics in order to drive rapid national development formed the bases of Ibadan Varsity Christian Union Alumni Association conference, reunion 2020 held at the chapel of resurrection University of ibadan.

Radio Nigeria was at the venue of the event reports that aside over 500 hundred members who were physically present, the event held through zoom is marking the 60th anniversary of the association.

Addressing newsmen, the President of the Association, Mr Babatunde Ajala lamented the spate of killings, kidnap and perceived imbalance in political appointment and urged christian leaders to mobilized its members to get involved in politics so as to assume position of leadership.

Mr Babatunde urged President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure the country for rapid development.

Some members of the association said the reunion has afforded them the opportunity to deliberate on issues affecting thier members and Nigeria

Aside payers for the nation, the event also featured seminars, talks, praise and prayers

The theme of the conference was, The Balanced Christian.

Rotimi Famakin

Health

No Case Of Yellow Fever At UCH – CMD

By Web News 793

No case of Yellow Fever has been reported in Oyo state or at the University College Hospital, UCH, Ibadan.

Chief Medical Director, CMD, of the hospital, Professor Jesse Otegbayo stated this at a news briefing in Ibadan.

Professor Otegbayo who explained that the disease is more in the Middle Belt, Edo and Delta States urged people to continue to abide by safety precautions against infectious diseases, preventing mosquito bites and vaccination every ten years.

The UCH helmsman noted that as some countries were experiencing the second wave of the global Covid 19 pandemic, Nigeria should not let her guard down.

Anthonia Akanji

Health

Examining The Causes And Management of Diabetes

By Web News 742

According to World Health Organisation, W.H.O., over four hundred million people worldwide have diabetes, the majority living in low and middle income countries with over one million deaths each year.

Due to the debilitating effect of this disease, every 14th of November is set aside as World Diabetes Day.

The day is to increase awareness on diabetes and its complications.

The theme for this year is the “Nurse and Diabetes”.

In this special report, our health correspondent, Titilayo Kupoliyi x-rays causes and management of diabetes.

Titilayo Kupoliyi

News Analysis

Inclusion Of Persons With Disabilities In Electoral Process

By Web News 1722

Political rights such as the right to vote and be voted for and stand for elections are fundamental human rights.

Political participation is deep-rooted in the universal declaration of human rights and the international covenant on civil and political rights, which emphasises the right of every person to equal participation in public affairs, the right to vote and to be elected, and the right to have access to public service.

Also, article twenty-nine of the convention on the rights of persons with disabilities states the rights of persons with disabilities to participate in political and public life without discrimination and on an equal basis with others. 

However, many persons with disabilities still face difficulties when trying to exercise these rights.

Multiple challenges related to accessibility of polling stations and information material and discrimination are part of the hindrances faced by persons with disabilities.

The country’s size and continued infrastructural challenges also complicate efforts to enjoy basic electoral rights by many of these marginalized citizens.

It is in the light of this that persons with disability in the country called on the government to enact policies that will include them in the electoral process.

The Executive Secretary, Nigeria Disability Rights Commission, Mr James Lalu said persons with disabilities needed to be included in the policies and programmes of political parties and given elective position in their parties.

Mr Lalu explained that the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in getting involved in party politics has limited their opportunities for contesting elective positions in the country.

According to the World Health Organisation’s 2011 report on disability about twenty-five million Nigerians live with a disability. 

In January last year, President Muhammadu Buhari signed into law the Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities Prohibition Act, 2018.

The law prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability and imposes sanctions including fines and prison sentences on those who contravene it.

It is gratifying that the discrimination against persons with disabilities prohibition act has been signed into law but this is a first step in the realization of the country’s obligations under the United Nations convention on the rights of people with disabilities.

Effective measures to guarantee its full implementation must be put in place to ensure equal treatment and participation of people with disabilities across the country.

It behooves political parties to be aware that people with disabilities are important part of the electorate and they should aim to create a culture of political participation on equal terms.

Political parties should demonstrate commitment to making political life more diverse and representative of the population by encouraging persons with disabilities to contest for election and offering them, without discrimination, electable positions.

Political parties can play an essential role in tackling lack of awareness and encouraging active participation of persons with disabilities by raising awareness on the importance of inclusion and participation of all, without discrimination, in political life.

In addition, accessibility of public buildings and information about electoral processes, voting procedures and political programmes need to be guaranteed to allow participation of all.

Aside from aforementioned, visibility of persons with disabilities in electoral debates in the media should also be encouraged.

Fawzeeyah Kasheem