Tag: Nigeria..

  • FCT Civil Service Commission Gets Pioneer Chairman …as Tinubu Appoints Engr Emeka Ezeh.

    FCT Civil Service Commission Gets Pioneer Chairman …as Tinubu Appoints Engr Emeka Ezeh.

    Emmanuel Clement.

    To enhance service delivery in the newly created Civil Service Commission,President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Engr. Emeka Ezeh as the pioneer chairman of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Civil Service Commission.

    His appointment was sequel to his nomination by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, via a letter dated March 11, 2024 and forwarded to President Tinubu for action.
    Engr Ezeh will chair a seven-member FCT Civil Service Commission with pioneer six Commissioners appointed by the President. They include; Hon. Ahmed Mohammed (North-West), Chief Anthony Okeah (South-South), Mohammed Magaji Ibrahim (North-East), Miskoom Alexander Naantuam (North-Central), Hon. Jide Jimoh (South-West), and Barr. Martin Azubike (South-East).

    The former DG Bureau for Public Procurement is a renowned civil engineer and procurement expert,who has had a remarkable career spanning over 40 years, during which he worked closely with four Nigerian Presidents as Director, BPP (the Presidency ),Abuja.

    Born on February 16, 1958, in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, Engr Emeka Ezeh has dedicated his life to public service and good governance initiatives.

    He has been involved in providing procurement services and conducting training for various public sector entities, including federal ministries, state governments, and private organizations. Some of the notable entities he has worked with include the Federal Ministry of Power, Science and Technology, National Identity Management Commission, Nigerian Civil Defence, and several others.

    In addition to his work in procurement, Engr Emeka Ezeh also holds key positions in academia and professional organizations. He serves as a facilitator and associate professor at the University of Lagos Business School, where he imparts his knowledge and expertise to aspiring procurement professionals. He is also a faculty member of the Centre for Innovation in Procurement, Environmental & Social Standards (CIPESS), a World Bank SPESSE Project at the Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi and the University of Lagos.

    Engr Ezeh’s contributions to the engineering field have been widely recognized. The former President, Nigerian Society of Engineers, currently serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, a position he has held since 2021. He is a fellow of several professional institutions, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the American Society of Civil Engineers, and the Nigerian Institution of Civil
    He has served as the Chairman of the National Committee on Energy Master Plan, Chairman of the Technical Committee of the Governing Board of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), and a member of the National Economic Management Team, among others.

  • Ilorin -Lokoja Dualization: Nigeria Governor’s Forum Seek FG intervention.

    Ilorin -Lokoja Dualization: Nigeria Governor’s Forum Seek FG intervention.

    “Mr. President,does not joke with the welfare of Nigerians as he is one person that is infrastructure committed”–Umahi

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    The Chairman, Nigeria Governor’s Forum and State Governor of Kwara State His Excellency Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has paid an unscheduled visit to the Ministry of Works to appeal to the Federal Government with a matter of urgency look into the Ilorin-Lokoja dualization of the Federal Highway as it is a very major important road.

    He stated this during a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister for Works, Senator Nweze David Umahi, stating that the llorin-Lokoja Highway is not just an economic road,but a belt of solid minerals in Nigeria and agricultural belt.

    Speaking on behalf of the Governors that visited, the Governor of Kwara State said the purpose of their visit was to bring the condition of the Ilorin-Lokoja road to the attention of the Federal Government for possible intervention, adding that the road which also stretches to Markurdi, Gboko up to the Republic of Benin is key not only to the enhancement of the economy, but also to the development of solid mineral and agriculture in Nigeria.


    Gov Abdulrazaq expressed delight in the abundant interventions of Mr. President on road infrastructure across the nation and hoped that with the outcome of their meeting, the Federal Government would look into ways and means to fund the Ilorin-Lokoja dualization.

    The Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi while responding assured the Governors that the Federal Government under the renewed hope administration of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to addressing the accumulated road infrastructural needs of the country as that would contribute progressively to the reinvigoration of the national and sub-national economies.

    The Honourable Minister went further to say that holistic attention is being given to the Federal roads in all the States of the Federation by Mr. President, and this could be seen in the numerous road projects going on in the country under the renewed hope administration.


    “In all honesty, the roads are very terrible,but if you look at what we had when I took over in the month of August and what we are doing now, you will see a lot of commitment by Mr. President, not just on that stretch,but all over the country. That’s why he directed that I must visit all the States and all the projects.”he stated.

    He assured the Governors who visited,that the Ministry would look at the funding mechanism to kick-start the project once approved by Mr. President, as it is not contemplated by the budget.

    Read also:FG Raises Concern On Benin- Ekpoma-Auchi- Lokoja Road. … Gives a Marching Order to Contractors to Justify the funds released or risk termination.
    According to him”,Mr. President,does not joke with the welfare of Nigerians as he is one person that is infrastructure committed right from when he was Governor. Even on his own personal businesses, you’ll see the development of infrastructure. So, he’s very much interested. He understands that the road is everything in this country. It will improve security, improve agriculture, improve commerce and so on and so forth.”he submitted.

  • I’m Ready For Suspension — Senator Ningi  …says he was misquoted.

    I’m Ready For Suspension — Senator Ningi …says he was misquoted.

    Emmanuel Clement.

    The Senator representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Abdul Ningi,has made some clarifications regarding some claims he made regarding the 2024 Appropriation Act, stating that he was misquoted.

    He stated this in a chat with Senate correspondents on Monday, the Chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum said he is ready to carry his cross, even if it means suspension from the Red Chamber.

    Ningi noted that he never suggested that President Bola Tinubu is implementing two budgets or that he was biased against the North.

    The Senator went further to clarify that he stands by his utterance as a Senator and not the Chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum, that it has been established beyond doubt that N25trn was rightly allocated in the budget, citing three parameters money, project and location but cannot ascertain the project location for the other N3trn.

    Meanwhile, a lawmaker from Ondo South Senatorial District, Jimoh Ibrahim, has asked the Federal Government to charge Senator Ningi to court for criminal misinformation and breach of peace in the National Assembly and the country by extension.

    Read also:RAMADAN: IGP Reassures Adequate Security — Urges Muslim Faithfuls to Embrace Compassion, Forgiveness and Peace
    It would be recalled that the Presidency had on Sunday described as false by Senator Ningi that the Federal Government is operating two versions of the 2024 budget.
    According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the senator’s claim that the National Assembly passed N25 trillion as the 2024 Budget is false, adding that N28.7 trillion was passed and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
    The Presidency also described as “far-fetched and unbecoming of a leader of his status”, the claim by Senator Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, that the 2024 Budget was anti-north.
    Onanuga said the President is leading a government that is fair and equitable to every part and segment of Nigeria. He added that in terms of funding, distribution of capital and priority projects, the 2024 Appropriation Act was not skewed against any section of the country.

  • Kidnappings: Employ More Neighborhood Watch Officers, Lagos Assembly Tells Sanwo-Olu – sympathises with affected states, families of victims – commends Remi Tinubu for advocating capital punishment for kidnappers

    Kidnappings: Employ More Neighborhood Watch Officers, Lagos Assembly Tells Sanwo-Olu – sympathises with affected states, families of victims – commends Remi Tinubu for advocating capital punishment for kidnappers

    Emmanuel Ikpeama.

    With incidents of kidnapping spreading across some states of the federation, the Lagos State House of Assembly has called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to increase the personnel in the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) to effectively assist other security agencies.

    The House also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his favourable disposition to the issue of state police just as it praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for raising a voice and advocating for capital punishments as a deterrent.
    The issue which was discussed under ‘Matter of Urgent Public Importance’ followed the recent kidnapping of about 280 children in Kaduna, the about 102 kidnapped in Borno and 15 kidnapped in Sokoto recently.
    Noting that the case of the Chibok girls was yet to abate, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, said it was very important for every Nigerian to rise up and speak against kidnapping just as he sympathize with affected states and families of victims.


    Dr. Obasa said it was painful that while parents struggle to send their children to school to seek knowledge, “evil people in the name of kidnappers are hell-bent on destroying the future of the children
    “It is very important for all of us to rise up and find a lasting solution. Security is very essential in every given society and if we fail to protect lives, then what do we have as responsibility?

    “We must commend our First Lady for being bold and coming out and even talking about capital punishment.”
    The Speaker commended the military for its effort, but said more can be done even if it means relocating to areas where these attacks are frequent.
    He recalled the situation that necessitated the enactment of the anti-kidnapping law of Lagos State some years ago urging the National Assembly to review existing laws relating to kidnapping and expedite action on state police.

    Read also:FG Raises Concern On Benin- Ekpoma-Auchi- Lokoja Road. … Gives a Marching Order to Contractors to Justify the funds released or risk termination.
    The Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, said it is necessary at this time to call on governors and speakers of states to act regarding related legislation.
    In their various contributions, Hon. Tobun Abiodun and Nureni Akinsanya commended the Speaker for raising the issue while noting that Lagos is gradually experiencing cases of kidnappings.

    Their colleague, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, suggested the establishment of special courts to try alleged kidnappers and speed up trial processes while Hon. Abiodun Orekoya urged the military to employ technology in their surveillance.
    Meanwhile, Speaker Obasa has congratulated Muslims in Nigeria as the Ramadan commences.
    Dr. Obasa urged those who have to share with those in need. He urged Muslims to pray for peace and the country while encouraging Nigerians to show love to one another irrespective of religious beliefs.

  • GOV. Soludo Inaugurate 18 New Merit Based Permanent Secretaries. …charges them on service delivery.

    GOV. Soludo Inaugurate 18 New Merit Based Permanent Secretaries. …charges them on service delivery.

    By Emmanuel lkpeama

    The Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR has inaugurated 18 new Permanent Secretaries into the State Civil Service.
    Performing the function at the Government House, Awka, the Governor congratulated the newly appointed secretaries on their merit-based appointment and emphasized the importance of their roles.
    According to him,this is a unique appointment process.”For the first time in the state, Permanent Secretaries were chosen through rigorous examinations and interviews, ensuring the most qualified candidates were selected.”he stated.


    Governor Soludo went further to highlight the diversity of the new appointees, including representation from other states and a focus on gender equality, having appointed eight women among the eighteen chosen Permanent Secretaries, while urging the new Permanent Secretaries to be mindful of their oath of allegiance and stressed the importance of reading and meditating on it, working conscientiously,combating corruption, and upholding justice.


    He acknowledged the challenging economic times and his own decision to forego his salary, emphasizing the team’s commitment to serving the people as there maybe limitations but they must persevere to deliver excellent service to the people of Anambra
    The Governor urged the new Permanent Secretaries to take ownership of their roles and work collaboratively with Commissioners and other levels of government to propel Anambra State forward.


    Earlier in her introductory remarks, the Head of Service, Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, recalled that an examination was conducted for the appointment of permanent secretaries, among many stringent processes.
    Barrister Igwegbe applauded the Governor for taking the time to personally interview and appoint the 18 Permanent Secretaries in the State.

    Read also:Aisha Yesufu on looting of truck carrying food items in Abuja says ‘Revolution has started’

     


    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Sylvia Ifemeje, quoted the Nigerian Constitution of 1999, which stipulates the Governor’s power to appoint Permanent Secretaries in the Anambra State civil service.
    The ceremony was graced by the presence of several high-ranking officials, including the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi, Principal Secretary, Barr JPC Anetoh, Chief Of Protocol, Hon Chinedu Nwoye among other members of Anambra State Executive Council.

  • RAMADAN: IGP Reassures Adequate Security — Urges Muslim Faithfuls to Embrace Compassion, Forgiveness and Peace

    RAMADAN: IGP Reassures Adequate Security — Urges Muslim Faithfuls to Embrace Compassion, Forgiveness and Peace

    “Let us embrace the spirit of compassion, generosity, and forgiveness that defines Ramadan”.

    Victoria Nsika

    As the holy month of Ramadan begins today,the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, extends the warmest greetings from the Nigeria Police Force to all Muslim faithful across the country on the Ramadan season, a time of reflection, spiritual growth, and communal solidarity which holds great significance for millions of Muslim faithful around the world.

    During this holy period, the Nigeria Police reaffirms its commitment to ensuring the safety, security, and well-being of all citizens. The Police, as an institution, recognizes the importance of respecting religious practices and cultural traditions and the need to promote the principles of tolerance, understanding, and unity within our diverse society.

    Read also:My relationship with 2Baba is ” beyond work”–CEO Now Muzik ..as 2Baba and Manager Efe Omorogbe Part ways after 20years
    The IGP urges all Muslims to embrace the spirit of compassion, generosity, and forgiveness that defines Ramadan. He calls for all to come together, support one another, foster a sense of harmony, and build stronger bonds of friendship and cooperation in the holy month and beyond.
    The Inspector-General of Police, while urging members of the public to embrace the community policing concept, charges Nigerians to support the NPFs efforts to maintain peace and order throughout the month of Ramadan. The IGP equally urges all Muslims to cherish the blessings of Ramadan and strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

  • FG Raises Concern On Benin- Ekpoma-Auchi- Lokoja Road. … Gives a Marching Order to Contractors to Justify the funds released or risk termination.

    FG Raises Concern On Benin- Ekpoma-Auchi- Lokoja Road. … Gives a Marching Order to Contractors to Justify the funds released or risk termination.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    The Federal Government has sent a red signal to all the contractors handling the Benin- Ekpoma- Auchi- Okpella- Okene- Lokoja road to immediately commence accelerated work on the rehabilitation of the road or face termination of their contracts.
    This directive was handed over to the contractors by the Hon. Minister of Works, His Excellency, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi during his inspection visit to the various project sites in Edo State on 9th March 2024.

    The Hon. Minister who stated that the Federal Government under the renewed hope administration of His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu had released funds to the contractors handling the federal roads project,warned that contractors who fail to fully mobilize and commence immediate rehabilitation works on the projects would have their contracts terminated and such contractors will be blacklisted

    The Minister who used the opportunity to meet with the Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, described as unacceptable the delay of the contractors in fully mobilizing to site and effectively commencing rehabilitation work despite Mr. President’s prompt release of funds to them for the projects.

    He urged the people of Edo state to exercise patience as government is making serious plans to ensure that the renewed hope of Mr President is not thwarted.
    “I have had a very serious meeting with the Governor here. We are concerned about what is happening between Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi- Okpella and the axis of Kogi State. That is what we have been brainstorming on. I have worked with him throughout last night to direct that the road should be unblocked, and if you see the grievances of those people you will not blame them so much, because people are dying, and trucks are falling “
    Responding, the Governor thanked the Hon. Minister of Works for his deep sense of commitment to the development of road infrastructure in Nigeria.
    Read also:FG Commences Construction of 700 KM Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road And Maintenance of Critical Bridges in Lagos.
    He assured of the unwavering support of his administration to the concrete technology initiative introduced by the renewed hope administration, which he said was the best model for the road infrastructure along the East West and indeed parts of the country.

    “First, let me thank my brother and very good friend, the Honourable Minister of Works, who you know is an engineer par excellence, for the concern he has shown. Some time last year when I cried for help ahead of the rainy reason, we didn’t get this kind of response, but today Senator Umahi has harped on the need to remove encumbrances to the construction of enduring road infrastructure in Nigeria.”
    “We shall not continue to use expensive asphalt to do our roads. We should use sustainable local materials; we produce cement and steel, there is no reason why we can not begin to move towards utilizing more concrete in building our roads for sustainability so that our roads can last longer.’he submitted.
    Highlight of the inspection was the the Hon. Minister inspecting the Lokoja – Benin Road Dualization Projects, section IV: Benin – Ehor road in Edo State handled by RCC Nig. Ltd; the section III: Ehor – Auchi in Edo State handled by Dantata & Sawoe Nig. Ltd; and the section II: Auchi – Okene in Edo/Kogi States handled by Mothercat Nig. Ltd.
  • IWD: : Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu Extols Nigeria women ……. 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒂.

    IWD: : Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu Extols Nigeria women ……. 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆 𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒒𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝑵𝒊𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒂.

    “l want to appeal to all Nigerians to show commitment to dismantling barriers and creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential.”

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has recently praised the ingenuity and contributions of Nigerian women as the world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8.

    In a statement released by his special assistant on Press Affairs, Udora Orizu, Kalu highlighted the invaluable role that women play in advancing the progress of the country, stating that this day serves as a reminder of the cultural, political, social, and economic achievements made by women, as well as an opportunity to inspire efforts to end gender biases and discrimination and achieve gender equality.
    He emphasized that the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ aligns with the agenda of the 10th House of Representatives to improve women’s political representation.
    The Chairman,House Committee on Constitution Review,Rt Hon. Kalu expressed his commitment to addressing the issue of gender imbalance through the ongoing exercise,while acknowledging the strides made by women worldwide, Kalu also pointed out the sobering statistic that only 25.5% of women hold seats in national parliaments globally.

    Read also:FG Commences Construction of 700 KM Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road And Maintenance of Critical Bridges in Lagos.
    Kalu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing several women to his cabinet, recognizing their hard work and dedication in various fields of endeavor.
    He emphasized the importance of investing in women, not only as the right thing to do but as essential for a thriving and equitable society.
    “On this International Women’s Day,l want to appeal to all Nigerians to show commitment to dismantling barriers and creating an environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, can reach their full potential.”
    “I want to also urge Nigerians to champion inclusive progress and explore innovative solutions, such as seat reservations, to bridge the gender gap,when women are inspired to be included, there is a sense of belonging, relevance, empowerment, and democracy thrives.”he submitted.

     

  • Gov. Soludo Appoints Osun Indigene as Permanent Secretary ….as he approves the appointment of new Permanent Secretaries.

    Gov. Soludo Appoints Osun Indigene as Permanent Secretary ….as he approves the appointment of new Permanent Secretaries.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    The Governor of Anambra State,Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has appointed an Osun State indigene, Mr Bayo Ojeyinka as a Permanent Secretary in the Anambra State Civil service.
    Mr Ojeyinka, who has been in the Anambra State public service system since 1995, when he completed his National Youth Service Corps scheme (NYSC) in the state,see the promotion as a rare privilege because so many brilliant persons also merited the promotion.
    The appointment which was seen by many civil servants as one that is deserving,Ojeyinka thanked the Governor and the people of Anambra for finding him worthy as he promise to increase his efficiency, productivity and fairness in his work.
    “I am so excited to be considered. I don’t see this as a right but rather a rare privilege because so many brilliant officers also merited the promotion. I thank Mr Governor, Professor Charles Soludo for this honour, and Ndi Anambra for all their love, kindness and support in my 29 years of living in Anambra state. I will repay the state with increased efficiency, productivity, transparency and fairness in my work. I thank my colleagues too the Head of Service, Her Honour, Barrister Mrs Theodora Igwegbe for her wonderful support. I promise to live up to the great expectations”.he submitted.
    In the same vein,the governor also promoted Dr Nwabufo Nwankwo, a youth activist, to the level of permanent secretary in the state civil service.

    Read also:What Nigeria Government needs to do to arrest Hunger —Peter Obi (more…)

  • My relationship with 2Baba is ” beyond work”–CEO Now Muzik ..as 2Baba and Manager Efe Omorogbe Part ways after 20years

    My relationship with 2Baba is ” beyond work”–CEO Now Muzik ..as 2Baba and Manager Efe Omorogbe Part ways after 20years

    Emmanuel Ikpeama.

    Nigeria Singer and producer lnnocent ldibia popularly known as 2Baba and his manager of over 20years Efe Omorogbe have decided to part ways.

    Efe,who is the CEO of Now Muzik described his work relationship with 2Baba as one that is “beyond work”, stating that 2Baba is one of the greatest Nigeria musicians of all time.
    He stated this in his Now Muzik X handle, thanking 2Baba for the trust and friendship they have established over the years.
    ” I am grateful to 2Baba for the trust and for the friendship,l am proud of the branch we built together, the music we made and the fans we entertained”
    “It is really an honor to have had the opportunity to walk side by side with him, watching and helping him make magic over the past 20years,my team and l look forward to now supporting from the sidelines and continuing to advocate for anything and everything of 2Baba” he submitted.
    Idibia on his part noted that everything he has been to achieve is as a result of so many people and organization working with him to bring out his talent and vision to life,Now Muzik is one of them.

    1. Read also:What Nigeria Government needs to do to arrest Hunger —Peter Obi
      According to him,the disengagement is for a reason” l owe a lot my career success to Efe and the team at Now Muzik”.he said.
      It will be recalled that 2Baba signed with Now Muzik management upon exiting the plantashun Boiz in 2004 to pitch his tent with kennis music as a recording label. Since then he has recorded and released 8albums, performed in 100 cities and won over 70 awards.
      The duo revealed the mutual disengagement is with immediate effect.