Nigerian Governor Urges National Action Against Brain Drain

 Nigerian Governor Urges National Action Against Brain Drain

In a fervent call to action, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has denounced the ongoing exodus of skilled professionals to foreign shores, warning that it poses a significant threat to Nigeria's progress.

Speaking at the prestigious "International Study Abroad Fair 2024 (ISAF)," hosted at the esteemed International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, the governor, represented by the state's Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Abdulwaheed Adelabu, underscored the urgent need for concerted efforts from governmental and private sectors to stem the tide of talent flight colloquially known as the 'japa' syndrome.

Makinde emphasized the necessity of fostering an enabling educational ecosystem for Nigerian youth, urging stakeholders to prioritize measures aimed at curbing brain drain and incentivizing the return of skilled professionals to contribute to the nation's development.

"While there's merit in pursuing education abroad, it's imperative that our citizens return to leverage their expertise for the betterment of our nation," asserted Makinde, articulating a sentiment echoed by many in attendance.

Highlighting his administration's strides in the education sector, the governor advocated for initiatives focused on bolstering infrastructure, investing in education and skill acquisition programs, and creating employment opportunities to retain local talent.

The conference's chief organizer, Tolu Eledan, elucidated that ISAF 2024 was conceived with a dual purpose: to dispel misconceptions surrounding international education and to equip Nigerian youths with the knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of studying abroad while emphasizing the imperative of leveraging their acquired expertise for national development upon their return.

As Nigeria grapples with the perennial challenge of brain drain, Makinde's impassioned plea resonates as a clarion call for a unified national strategy to reclaim and harness the intellectual capital critical for the country's advancement in the global arena.

Continue Reading

Escalated DRC violence displaces 78,000 children, families ripped apart – SCI

Escalated DRC violence displaces 78,000 children, families ripped apart – SCI

"Mass Displacement and Urgent Humanitarian Crisis Grips the Democratic Republic of Congo: Save the Children International Reports" 

In a recent development, Save the Children International (SCI) sounded the alarm regarding the escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), leading to the displacement of 78,000 children and the fragmentation of numerous families.

SCI, in a communique provided to Vanguard, disclosed that over 78,000 children have fled their residences in the past week alone. This surge in displacement follows renewed clashes between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) and M23, a non-state armed group. Since February 2, these confrontations have displaced a staggering 150,000 individuals, with more than half being children.

According to SCI's statement, families recount heartbreaking stories of children separated during the violence, although the exact number of missing children remains unknown.

Fleeing families are seeking refuge in displacement camps, churches, schools, and with host families, with a significant number now on the perilous journey to Goma, the capital of the province. 

The deployment of heavy weaponry including artillery, drones, and explosives in eastern DRC has resulted in civilian casualties and widespread destruction of critical infrastructure, as lamented by Save the Children.

Local media sources report casualties, including the deaths of 19 individuals and injuries sustained by 27 others, among them three young girls. The violence has spared no sanctuary, with a market struck on February 7, and munitions landing perilously close to a school and hospital, prompting closures of all schools in the affected area.

Alicia, an educator at a Save the Children partner school in North Kivu, vividly recalls the chaos of February 2, emphasizing the profound impact on the community and education system.

Save the Children's Country Director for DRC, Greg Ramm, emphasized the dire situation faced by children in eastern DRC, where violence has become a recurring nightmare, resulting in separation from families and forced displacement.

Ramm underscored the urgent need for action to break the cycle of suffering endured by innocent lives, emphasizing the necessity of prioritizing the rights and well-being of children in the region.

The humanitarian organization highlights the challenges faced in providing essential services to affected populations, with access severely constrained, and the only safe route via boat.

The DRC continues to grapple with protracted crises, with over 25 million people in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and more than seven million displaced. Children constitute over half of the population, further exacerbating the crisis.

Save the Children, operating in the DRC since 1994, has intensified its efforts to address humanitarian needs arising from conflicts and displacement in the eastern provinces. Their interventions include bolstering existing support systems, healthcare provision through mobile clinics, and facilitating access to education by constructing classrooms and distributing learning materials.

Continue Reading

 

Concerned Mother Raises Alarm Over Safety Concerns

In a heartfelt revelation on social media, Maria Muftaudeen, a businesswoman and mother to a daughter shared with the well-known figure Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly recognized as MC Oluomo, has expressed her deep concerns and fears regarding her safety and that of their child. This emotional disclosure took place through an Instagram post where Muftaudeen implored Nigerians to hold MC Oluomo accountable if any harm befell her or their daughter. In her distressing message, she addressed MC Oluomo directly, appealing to him not to harm her and their child, emphasizing her plea with the words, "Oluomo, ma pa mi, ma pa mi lomo" (Oluomo, don't kill me, don't kill my child).

Accompanying her plea was a striking photo of MC Oluomo, suggesting her belief that he is specifically targeting her and her fiancé. However, Muftaudeen went beyond the emotional plea and shared a detailed open letter directly addressed to MC Oluomo. In this letter, she recounted the myriad challenges she has encountered, alleging that despite her attempts to reconcile and seek support, she has been met with threats and intimidation.

Muftaudeen accused MC Oluomo of neglecting their daughter's welfare and placing their lives in jeopardy. The open letter shed light on the absence of legal recourse due to intimidation, painting a vivid picture of the toll this situation has taken on her mental health and overall well-being.

Her poignant plea concluded with a powerful reminder, urging MC Oluomo to take responsibility for their daughter's welfare and cease sending people to attack her. She emphasized the profound impact of the ongoing situation on her life, stating, "Even if you have not killed me, you are already killing me."

This public appeal by Muftaudeen shines a light on the intricate complexities within personal relationships, shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals seeking justice and safety when confronted with perceived threats and intimidation. The detailed open letter adds depth to her narrative, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the emotional and psychological turmoil she is experiencing in the face of these alleged adversities. RALD News Media aims to bring attention to such personal struggles, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in the broader societal context.

Continue Reading

Blackout as collation begins in Anambra LG

3rd February 2024

 Security personnel completely blocked the entrance and surrounding premises of the Nnewi North Local Government headquarters, acting as the collation center for the rerun election of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituencies in Anambra State. RALD News Media reports that this measure was enforced around 7 pm on Saturday.

During the collation process, it was observed by our correspondent that Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra South, Peter Uzokwe, the candidate of the Young Progressive Party, and several other party agents and candidates were denied access by the security personnel. This led to a heated exchange between locked-out party officials and security operatives, including some INEC officials, creating a scene around the secretariat premises.

The situation escalated as journalists and election observers found themselves locked inside with no permission to leave or enter. Collation proceedings commenced at approximately 7:15 pm in complete darkness, as a power outage occurred at the secretariat. Returning officers and other INEC officials resorted to using their phone torch lights as a makeshift power supply for the collation room.

By 8:20 pm, the Electoral Officer emerged from the collation room, expressing frustration due to the lack of light. However, a soldier persuaded him to return so they could continue using their phone torch lights for collation. As of the latest update at 8:46 pm, the Electoral Officer was consulting with electoral officials to determine whether to proceed with the collation, while some party officials remained locked outside.

The rerun election covered five polling units in Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituencies. Additionally, it included 16 polling units in Nanka, Orumba North Local Government Area, to determine the winner of the Orumba North and Orumba South federal constituency. Furthermore, five polling units in Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, were part of the election to decide the winner of Nnewi North and Nnewi South and Ekwusigo federal constituencies. The affected polling units in Nnewi North had 97,438 registered voters, while Orumba North had 161,914 voters.Security personnel completely blocked the entrance and surrounding premises of the Nnewi North Local Government headquarters, acting as the collation center for the rerun election of Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituencies in Anambra State. RALD News Media reports that this measure was enforced around 7 pm on Saturday.

During the collation process, it was observed by our correspondent that Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of Anambra South, Peter Uzokwe, the candidate of the Young Progressive Party, and several other party agents and candidates were denied access by the security personnel. This led to a heated exchange between locked-out party officials and security operatives, including some INEC officials, creating a scene around the secretariat premises.

The situation escalated as journalists and election observers found themselves locked inside with no permission to leave or enter. Collation proceedings commenced at approximately 7:15 pm in complete darkness, as a power outage occurred at the secretariat. Returning officers and other INEC officials resorted to using their phone torch lights as a makeshift power supply for the collation room.

By 8:20 pm, the Electoral Officer emerged from the collation room, expressing frustration due to the lack of light. However, a soldier persuaded him to return so they could continue using their phone torch lights for collation. As of the latest update at 8:46 pm, the Electoral Officer was consulting with electoral officials to determine whether to proceed with the collation, while some party officials remained locked outside.

The rerun election covered five polling units in Nnewi North, Nnewi South, and Ekwusigo Federal Constituencies. Additionally, it included 16 polling units in Nanka, Orumba North Local Government Area, to determine the winner of the Orumba North and Orumba South federal constituency. Furthermore, five polling units in Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, were part of the election to decide the winner of Nnewi North and Nnewi South and Ekwusigo federal constituencies. The affected polling units in Nnewi North had 97,438 registered voters, while Orumba North had 161,914 voters.

Continue Reading

INEC suspends re-run elections in 20 polling units

3rd February 2024

 The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has taken the decision to suspend re-run elections in 20 polling units spread across Kano, Enugu, and Akwa-Ibom states, according to the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, as stated in a release by RALD News Media.

Initially investigating disruptions during the rerun and by-elections in Enugu, Akwa-Ibom, and Kano states, INEC reported that while polls opened smoothly in 8,934 polling units across 26 states, there were incidents of thuggery and material hijacking in some locations in Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Kano.

In the latest updates, the suspension was attributed to irregularities and the abduction of election officials. The affected areas include Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency in Akwa Ibom State and Kunchi/Tsanyawa State Constituency in Kano State. The suspension was implemented in response to disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials, aligning with Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

Specifically, the suspension in Akwa Ibom is in relation to all eight Polling Units where original result sheets were unavailable for voter inspection before polls commenced. In Kano, the suspension covers all ten Polling Units in Kunchi LGA due to invasion, vandalization, and disruption by thugs.

INEC has called on security agencies to investigate these incidents, and further measures for the affected constituencies will be announced after the Commission's meeting on Monday. The Commission pledges to thoroughly scrutinize any breaches involving its officials.

Continue Reading

Anambra rescues US-based tennis star found wandering

 Anambra rescues US-based tennis star found wandering

29th January 2024

The Anambra State Government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare, has successfully rescued Tania Okpala, a United States Table Tennis champion, who was discovered wandering the streets of Awka, the state capital. A viral video circulating on social media captured Okpala in a distressed state, prompting the state Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Ify Obinabo, to swiftly respond to the situation.

According to the commissioner's media aide, Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the rescue mission was initiated following a directive from the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo. The commissioner promptly organized the rescue and rehabilitation efforts to address the tennis star's situation.

In an official statement released on Monday, Ikeanyionwu confirmed the successful rescue, stating, "The Anambra State government has rescued one Ms. Tania Okpala, a US-based tennis champion who was found wandering the streets of the state capital and was captured in a viral video on social media by a good-spirited member of the public."

The statement further highlighted the distressed appearance of Okpala in the video, prompting the government's swift response to rescue, rehabilitate, and reunite her with her family. The commissioner, acting on the governor's directive, assured Okpala of the state government's commitment to her well-being and emphasized the provision of the best treatment and rehabilitation to support her recovery.

Governor Soludo, through a phone interaction with Okpala, conveyed the government's determination not to forsake her. He assured her of comprehensive support for her full recovery and reintegration into society. Okpala, in recounting her ordeal, disclosed that despite being a US-based tennis champion, she succumbed to crack cocaine addiction due to negative peer influence.

She also shared the tragic loss of her mother to cancer a few years ago, a loss she has struggled to overcome. Okpala, originally from Nkpologwu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, revealed that she has a six-year-old daughter residing with her father in Nkpologwu. In a heartfelt plea, she urged the governor's wife to assist in reuniting her with her daughter. The Anambra State Government's prompt intervention reflects its commitment to the welfare and rehabilitation of citizens facing challenging circumstances.

Continue Reading

Streets Sweepers Demand Unpaid Stipends in Akure Protest

 RALD NEWS MEDIA REPORT

Headline:Streets Sweepers Demand Unpaid Stipends in Akure Protest

Akure, Ondo State - December 11, 2023

In a fervent demonstration, female street sweepers, including widows, voiced their dissatisfaction with four months of unpaid stipends in Akure, the capital of Ondo State. The protesters, adorned in green jackets and armed with brooms, gathered at the Ministry of Environment to express their grievances against ZL Global Alliance, their employer responsible for waste management and recycling in the state.

Leader Oluwaseun Ogunniyi, representing the former staff of Ondo State Waste Management under ZL Global Alliance since 2019, highlighted their essential role in maintaining cleanliness on streets, highways, and markets. The protesters, owed N10,000 for four months, decried the treatment by ZL Global Alliances, citing a reduction in payment from the previous N20,000 to the current N15,000, without any promotions.

Ogunniyi emphasized the financial strain on the sweepers, stating, "We close as late as 5 pm. I use N1000 per day to and from work, and I am a widow. If they don't pay us, then we won't work again."

Bimbo Adekunle, an elderly protester, shared the challenges of working from 4:30 am, unpaid for months, and facing dangers while sweeping highways without adequate protection. She appealed to authorities, including ZL Global Alliance, Ondo State Waste Management, and local leaders, urging them to settle the outstanding stipends.

ZL Global's Managing Director, Mrs. Biola Bashorun, responded, attributing the payment delays to account issues, assuring that those affected would receive their stipends by the following week. Bashorun clarified that the pending payment only covered the salary for the previous month, November. The protesters urged a return to state management for more reliable compensation.

Reporting for RALD NEWS MEDIA - Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

Continue Reading

Umahi Exposes Buhari’s Government Mismanagement of Debt In Ministry of Works

RALD NEWS MEDIA reports that the Minister of Works, David Umahi, has disclosed that the previous administration under President Muhammadu Buhari left a substantial debt of N1.5 trillion. To address this, the Ministry has established six committees, each corresponding to a geopolitical zone, tasked with scrutinizing certified certificates issued before May 29th, 2023, and those from May 29th, 2023, onwards.

According to a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary Orji Uchenna Orji, these committees will assess both approved and unapproved variation of prices, as well as any augmentations pending approval, offering recommendations to the Ministry's management.

Umahi encourages contractors to present their supporting documents to the committees between Tuesday, December 12th, 2023, and Friday, December 22nd, 2023, from 9 am to 7 pm at the minister’s Conference Room, 1st floor, Federal Ministry of Works, Headquarters, Mabushi Abuja.

Emphasizing the Ministry's dedication to advancing road infrastructure aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, Umahi revealed that the Ministry has shared details of these debts and reviews with Mr. President’s economic team and the Federal Executive Committee on road sector funding.

He expresses confidence that the internal reviews conducted by these committees will enable them to engage external consultants for re-verification, facilitating informed decisions for the Ministry's progress. Umahi underscores the vital role of road sector development, asserting its potential to catalyze economic growth across various sectors, including security, agriculture, trade, investment, health, and education in Nigeria.

Continue Reading

President Tinubu Urges Nigerian Youths Abroad to Return for Economic Opportunities

 President Tinubu Urges  Nigerian Youths Abroad to Return for Economic Opportunities

RALD NEWS MEDIA Reports: President Tinubu Urges Nigerian Youths Abroad to Return for Economic Opportunities

In a bid to tackle economic challenges and boost job opportunities for Nigerian youths, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has passionately urged young Nigerians residing as irregular immigrants in various countries to come back home. This appeal took place during the annual National Dialogue on Migration (NDM) at the Banquet Hall of the presidential villa in Abuja, coinciding with the 2023 edition of International Migrants’ Day.

Represented by the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, President Tinubu reiterated the central focus of his administration's Renewed Agenda—to spread economic prosperity, particularly to the youth and vulnerable populations. This plea aligns with the global observance of December 18th as International Migrants Day by the United Nations General Assembly.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by migrants, the President emphasized the theme of this year's Dialogue, "Leveraging on Youth Migration for National Development." Expressing concern about the recent increase in youth migration outside Nigeria, especially among skilled individuals, President Tinubu stressed the need to prevent the loss of critical human capital to perilous journeys.

Affirming the government's commitment to changing this narrative, President Tinubu highlighted social and economic policies aimed at improving general welfare, reducing extreme poverty, and generating employment for young graduates. He encouraged graduates to utilize government programs, particularly those promoting small and medium enterprises, while emphasizing ongoing state-level initiatives focused on job creation.

The President called on all Nigerians to collaborate with the government in building a prosperous economy, envisioning a country where citizens have no reason to migrate through irregular means.

During the event, Hon. Aliyu Ahmed Tijani, the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, disclosed that the Commission successfully assisted in the reception of 4,500 voluntary and repatriated migrants. Notable figures, including representatives of the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, German Ambassador, EU Representative, and Development Partners, echoed support for President Tinubu's stance on irregular migration.

Continue Reading

 

Remi Tinubu Is The Person In Charge Of This Government – Cleric Azzaman

In a recent revelation, Pastor Ayuba Azzaman has shed light on the perceived influence carried by Oluremi Tinubu in the current administration led by Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who assumed office in May following his victory in the 2023 election, is widely recognized as a seasoned political power broker in the country, with his wife, Oluremi, having been entrenched in the corridors of power since 1999, previously serving as the first lady of Lagos state.

RALD NEWS MEDIA reported that Senior Pastor David Ayuba Azzaman of the King Worship Chapel and Ministry has asserted that Oluremi Tinubu, as the first lady, holds a pivotal role, being “the person in charge” of the present government.

Pastor Azzaman, expressing his views on his Facebook page, also emphasized that First Lady Oluremi is unwaveringly supportive of her husband, Bola Ahmed.

The cleric asserted that in July 2023, he received a “revelation” wherein he observed First Lady Oluremi positioned “at the center” of a significant activity within the Aso Rock presidential villa.

Azzaman’s post reads in part: “About a month ago in a revelation of the night, I saw His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his wife Pastor Mrs. Remi Tinubu, and some group of people with them.

“I noticed Pastor Remi Tinubu was in the center while the husband was by her side. She is at the center of the activity going on, and people’s attention was more on her than on her husband President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and there is no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you. Genesis 40:8 KJV.

“Whether you believe it or not, Pastor Mrs Remi Tinubu is the person in Charge of this Government. She is solidly behind her husband.”

Continue Reading

 

Wike lists fresh requirements for C-of-O, says all Abuja landlords must comply

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has said that henceforth, obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) in Abuja will now require a National Identification Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN).

Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Friday, November 24, Wike further disclosed that existing landowners in the capital must get recertification to incorporate these new features.

According to him, he has been refraining from signing C-of-Os during his tenure as the FCT minister to introduce enhanced security measures, such as the inclusion of NIN for individuals and BVN for corporate bodies.

“There are a lot of discrepancies, a lot of cloning of C-of-Os, so we have come up with an idea that every allottee who seeks and applies for a C-of-O must supply his NIN; this is one of the features we are going to put in the new C-of-O,” Wike said.

“If a corporate body doesn’t have an NIN and they have a property, they must put their BVN. So many persons have not registered, and this will make them go and re-register.”

Addressing the issue of existing landlords with C-of-Os, Rald Media reported that Wike stated that they would only be required to pay a nominal fee for recertification.

“For everyone who has a C-of-O, they will come for a recertification, so that we can incorporate the NIN or BVN,” he declared.

“Those who had a C-of-O before don’t need to pay money again; the highest they can pay is N50,000, and corporate bodies will pay N100,000. It helps in terms of security; it also helps to improve our revenue generation.”

“There are people who own seven properties, so this will identify them so they can pay taxes.”

Furthermore, Wike highlighted the benefits of this initiative in identifying property owners accurately for tax purposes.

He also addressed the proposed N5 million fee for C-of-O from the annual ground rent, explaining that the fee is based on land ownership rather than the structure built on it.

“The task force proposed N5 million, and the stakeholders said let it be reduced. They asked, ‘If it’s going to be on properties four-bedroom or bed-bedroom?’, again, you have to understand that the C-of-O is not based on the building but the land. The only difference is the annual ground rent.

“The one with a two-bedroom property cannot pay the same as the person with a three-bedroom property,” he said.

Continue Reading

Reps probe N62bn HIV/AIDS fund

 

Reps probe N62bn HIV/AIDS fund

House of Representative

The House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Malaria on Thursday pledged to investigate the utilisation and impact of the N62bn Federal Government intervention funds invested into the HIV/AIDS control programme and other donor funds by Global  Funds during the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

RALD NEWS MEDIA reported that The committee also expressed disappointment over the absence of the national coordinators of the National Malaria Control Programme and the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programmes during a recent visit embarked upon by the Committee on a fact-finding mission.

The Chairman of the Committee, Amobi Ogah, however, expressed optimism about the fight against the deadly diseases in the country due to achievements recorded by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS led by the Director-General of the agency Dr Aliyu Gambo, during the visit to the agency.

During the visit, members of the House Committee expressed dismay over the data and statistics compiled by the agency on the prevalence of HIV/AIDS across the states and asked the agency to invest more in creating awareness of the disease, particularly in rural communities.

The House Committee which pledged its support for NACA programs, expressed displeasure that the  Coordinators National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme as well as that of National Malaria Control Programme were absent when they were duly informed of the visit by the Committee.

He added that rather than the politicians, heads of government agencies and institutions are the major problems of the nation.

Statistics presented on the National HIV/AIDS Impact Survey conducted by NACA showed that in most states of the federation, two out of ten and three out of fifteen persons sampled and tested had contracted the deadly HIV/AIDS disease.

Continue Reading

 

Apapa Customs realise N135bn revenue in October 

The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, said it collected N135bn worth of revenue in October, adding that the figure is currently the highest monthly collection in the history of the command.

In a statement on Thursday, the command’s spokesperson, Abubakar Usman, said  it also achieved a landmark revenue collection feat as it collected N11.3bn on November 22, 2023, “thereby surpassing the existing highest daily collection record of N10bn which was achieved on August 3, 2023.”

The command’s Area Controller, Babajide Jaiyeoba, described the collection as a fallout of teamwork, system audit, compliance, and zero compromise.

He further urged officers of the command to sustain the tempo of hard work, adding that the command has been more focused on its mandate

“The recent daily and monthly revenue collection achievements should be a motivation for officers to do more to justify the confidence invested in the service by the Federal Government and meet the expectations of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, in the area of maximum revenue collection, legitimate trade facilitation and suppression of smuggling,” the CAC explained.

RALD NEWS MEDIA  reported that Jaiyeoba urged members of the port community including importers, licensed customs agents, chandlers, haulage operators, and freight forwarders among others to see compliance and obedience to laws as part of their civic responsibility as citizens.

He reiterated that his office is open to dialogue and suggestions on ways to improve customs service delivery and achieve the Federal Government’s objectives.

The Apapa Customs boss lauded the various Federal Government agencies for their cooperation while describing customs’ relationship with them as excellent and geared towards realizing government goals.

He added, “We are very optimistic about meeting our target for the year. Even though, initially, it was not what was expected but from what we have been recording in the last two months, I am very optimistic that we will be able to get there.

“I keep telling some of my subordinates, who want to be discouraged, that it is not over until it is over. I believe it is achievable. I know that by the end of the year, we will have cause to celebrate.”

He pleaded with sister agencies to stick to their standard operating procedures, “And I want to put on record that other security agencies have been cooperating with us. The issue is just with these non-governmental organizations, and we will continue to tell them, let’s play the game by the rules.

Whether you are an agent or licensed Chandler, there is a condition for your license. The condition for every operator is spelled out. If we all play according to the rules of the game, there will be less friction, and we will be able to achieve a secure port environment.

“I keep telling people that we are working because the port is secured. The onus is not only on any of us, but all of us. We should all be able to do what we need to do to secure the port. An agent can discover that some of their counterparts are doing things that can undermine the security of the port. They should let us know so that we will address it right from the beginning before it causes a problem for everyone.”

Continue Reading

 

NAFDAC Alerts Public On Fake Injection In Circulation Called ‘Meronem 1g Injection’…

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians, particularly healthcare providers, to one batch of counterfeit Meronem 1g injection in circulation across the country.

The information is contained in a public alert Number 036/2023 by the agency’s Director General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye issued yesterday in Abuja.

Rald News Media reported that Adeyeye said the Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH), Pfizer, reported the incident, as received through a patient notification platform on a suspicious park of Meronem 1g injection purchase.

She quoted Pfizer as saying the vial content did not dissolve when reconstituted for use and that further visual inspection of the pack was observed.
It was also reported that the crimp code did not match the code reported on the production documentation batch of 2A21F11, which is the semi-finished batch used for 4A21I17.

Adeyeye said the production process did not meet Pfizer’s specifications.

“The vial label compares favourably to the purported artwork version.

 “Meronem (Meropenem trihydrate injection) is an antibiotic used to treat skin and abdominal (stomach area) infections caused by bacteria and meningitis (infection of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord) in adults and children from three months old and older.
“The administration of the counterfeit product will pose a high risk to patients as the quality and safety are not guaranteed,” she said.

The NAFDAC boss said healthcare providers and patients were advised to obtain all medical products from authorised/licensed suppliers.

She advised that products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked before purchase and administration.
Adeyeye also implored importers, wholesalers, and retailers to maintain vigilance within the supply chain and desist from illegal importation, distribution, and sale of the counterfeit Meronem 1g injection and other substandard medicinal products.

The NAFDAC boss said anybody in possession of the counterfeit product should stop using it and submit it to the nearest NAFDAC office.

She also urged those with the possession of the counterfeit product to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional, if they have used the product, or suffered from any adverse reaction after using the product.

Adeyeye also advised healthcare professionals and consumers to report any suspicion of adverse drug reactions, or substandard and falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office, or NAFDAC phone number on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

The NAFDAC also urged healthcare professionals and patients to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of a medicinal product to the nearest NAFDAC office, or through the use of the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng.

She advised members of the public to report any adverse effect of the product via the Med- safety application available for download on android and IOS stores or via e-mail on pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.

Continue Reading

 

Abia Gov. Finally Speaks On Spending N927M On Meals, Refreshments

Abia State Government has cleared the air on the controversy over the third quarter expenditure of the State Government, explaining that contrary to “distortions and lies” by the opposition, Gov. Alex Otti, never spent N927 million on meals and refreshments.

Rald News Media reported according to Government, what was spent by the entire 76 Ministries and Departments in the state on refreshments and meals for the third quarter was N223,389,889.84 , adding that the figure was not spent by the office of the Governor alone.

The figure, according to Government, also covers expenses for special events, such as retreats, conferences, and related events

In a joint press conference in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr Kingsley Anosike; his Information counterpart, Prince Okey Kanu; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Kazie Uko, expressed shock “how members of the opposition mischievously twisted figures released by Government on the Q3 expenses to blackmail the Governor”.

Anosike explained that what the state spent on welfare in the period under review was only N397,520,734.84 , and not the fictitious figures being bandied by harbingers of fake news.

He further noted that “the Welfare Expenditure covers all the Ministries Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and not just the Governor’s Office, as wrongly alleged.”

Continuing, he said: “Expenses under welfare, deal with issues of health, rehabilitation and public emergencies.”

Insisting that the Gov. Otti-led administration has been judicious in managing the resources of the state, Anosike said “the Welfare expenditure is in line with the State Fiscal, Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability Programme (SFTAS); an initiative of the Federal Government.”

He urged members of the public to discountenance doctored figures being peddled by members of the opposition to discredit the Governor.

Adding his voice, Commissioner for Information, Prince Kanu, denied that the State Q3 Budget Expenses published on the State website had been pulled down, dismissing the claims as blatant lie.

He said that Otti’s administration had been transparent and open in running the affairs of the state, declaring that Government has nothing to hide, hence, there is no need pulling down the publication.

The Governor’s CPS, Mr Uko, accused “sore election losers still in shock of how much the Governor has achieved with so little”, of distorting “very clear information in the Q3 Budget Expenses to mislead the public”.

Urging members of the public to disregard the allegations and fake news being propagated by mischief makers and attention seekers”, Uko said the Governor would not be distracted by the antics of his detractors.

“The Abia State Government, under the leadership of Dr Alex Otti, will continue to uphold transparency in governance as has been demonstrated in the publication of the budget performance report for two consecutive quarters”, he added.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media & Publicity, Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma; the Special Adviser on Monitoring and Evaluation, Mr Ugochukwu Okorafor; and the Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr Dodo Okafor, were also at the press conference.

>

Continue Reading

 

Lagos State Procurement Records Show Governor Sanwo-Olu Approved Alarming N3.75billion For Perfumes, Rechargeable Fans

The Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is presently in the eye of the storm after state procurement records showed he approved N7.5 million to replace liquid fragrance in his office and N3 billion to purchase rechargeable fans for the office of his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat.

Other contracts awarded by the state’s Public Procurement Agency (PPA) in the 2nd and 3rd quarters of 2023 include approval of over N440 million for the purchase of a new Lexus LX 600 Bulletproof Sport Utility Vehicle for use in the pool of Office of Chief of Staff.

Rald News reports that the office of the Chief of Staff also got N18.5 million for the supply and distribution of 2,000 Noiler chickens across the local government areas and wards in the state.

The government also approved N152 million for the restoration of water supply at Iduganran palace, the official residence of the Oba of Lagos.

Records also showed that the state will spend N581 million to renovate Saint Andrews Anglican Church in the Oke-Popo area of the state.

The office of the deputy governor was awarded N30m for monthly outreach of indigent citizens by the wife of the deputy governor. The office also got another N30m for empowerment programme.

The 2023 governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) in Lagos, Funsho Doherty, who raised questions about some of the contracts, said he has written an open letter to Governor Sanwo-Olu to review some of the projects.

“I just wrote an open letter to the governor on Public Procurement awards reported by LASG for the 2nd and 3rd quarters of 2023, highlighting a number of issues for further scrutiny and remedial action.

“Judicious use of public funds is always important and is especially so now,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

According to Rald Media, a public policy expert, Dr Abimbola Oyarinu, said it is sad that the government is enjoying jumbo packages while asking the people to endure the suffering in the land.

He, however, said Nigerians are living with the consequences of their actions.

“The truth is, I don’t blame the government, I blame the people. The people will always get the leaders they deserve. In spite of the inflation and the fact that an average Nigerian can no longer eat as a human any more, our government has refused to adapt to the reality.

“You can no longer blame the government; the people are culpable. It will be business as usual because people don’t realise the implication of this mismanagement.

“Rather than hold the government accountable for lack of basic amenities, we have chosen to blame the devil because religion and government are in the marriage of defrauding Nigerians.

“The next election will come, these same people will wipe up ethnic and religious sentiments,” he said.
A social crusader, Olufemi Ajayi, said the contracts showed the insensitivity of the government to the plight of the people.

“How can you budget over N7m to buy air fresheners at a time when the people you are leading are struggling to eat?” he queried.

Continue Reading

Madubuko Deploys Online-News Media To Publish Falsehoods About Revenue Partners, Chairman AiRS

Madubuko Deploys Online-News Media To Publish Falsehoods About Revenue Partners, Chairman AiRS

By: Comr John AnakweOnitsha

News organizations are meant to play a critical role in the dissemination of quality, accurate information in society. This has become more challenging with the onslaught of hoaxes, misinformation, and other forms of inaccurate content that flow constantly over digital platforms.

Journalists today have an imperative—and an opportunity—to sift through the mass of content being created and shared in order to separate true from false, and to help the truth to spread.

Unfortunately, in Anambra Internal Revenue Service AiRS, the lingering board room clashes between the Chairman Dr Greg Ezeilo and the Executive Director of Operations Christain Madubuko has seen the falsehoods in the online-media publications, the campaigns of deceit and calumny against Dr Ezeilo, and Ken Nwankwo-ABig, the CEO of the official revenue partners Bigly Oil and Gas Limited.

The current reality of how Madubuko deploys news organizations to cover unverified claims, online rumors, and viral content is quite unfortunate. Lies spread much farther than the truth, and news organizations play a powerful role in making this happen.

Madubuko in a bid to ensure that the reputation and image of the AiRS Chairman Dr Greg Ezeilo, Ken Nwankwo-ABig is tarnished deploys online News websites who dedicate far more time and resources to propagating questionable and often false claims than they do working to verify and/or debunk viral content and online rumors.

These news organizations rather than acting as a source of accurate information, frequently promotes misinformation in an attempt to drive traffic and social engagement.

For the records, let it be known to the general public that Dr Greg Ezeilo at no time requested for any gratification from Ken Nwankwo-ABig. Against all false claims, the AiRS Boss has never collected a dime from Bigly Oil and Gas for any intents and purposes. Madubuko’s diatribes, falsehoods and slanderous accusations are dangerously targeted at bringing the Bigly Oil and Gas Company to disrepute, and that cannot be allowed to pass.

Madubuko in his desperate attempt to drag the name of the Bigly Oil and Gas Company in the mud, has reportedly accused the firm of recruiting hardened criminals across the State for revenue collections. Let it be known that Madubuko is the enemy of Anambra State Government, an agent of destruction who have been enjoying the illegal services of criminal elements in the state parading as revenue collectors. There has been series of reports of illegal revenue collections by Madubuko’s touts scattered round the state, the Okada riders, and tricycles have been extorted in the tune of millions of naira.

In order to keep his pockets enriched, Madubuko has deviced a means of sponsoring propaganda using online-news organizations to peddle lies, damn lies against the Chairman of AiRS, and Bigly Oil and Gas Limited.

The members of the public are enjoined to disregard the disinformation and fake news making rounds, sponsored by the embattled Madubuko who has been adjudged the number one enemy of progressive governance presently been witnessed in Anambra State under the able leadership of the hardworking Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo.

Continue Reading