Author: Kingsley Okoye

Akpabio urges lawmakers to focus on Nigerians’ welfare

Welfare
By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 27, 2024 (NAN) Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged lawmakers to remain focused on issues relating to  the welfare of Nigerians in their legislative decisions and actions.

Akpabio made the call on Thursday at plenary, while welcoming lawmakers back from the Sallah break.

“Distinguished senators, I implore you to remain focused on the welfare of the people in your actions and decisions.

“Let us never forget that we are here to serve the Nigerian people, to uplift the lives of the less fortunate, and to create an environment where every citizen can thrive and fulfill their potential.

“Our success will not be measured by the power we hold or the positions we occupy, but by the impact we make in the lives of those we represent,” he said.

Akpabio said that the 10th Senate’s commitment to poverty alleviation went beyond mere duty, adding that it was an obligation the lawmakers held dearly.

He said that the senate members must continue to work tirelessly, to ensure that all policies were designed to provide sustenance for every Nigerian.

The senate president urged the lawmakers to steadfastly support the executive in the efforts to renew the hopes of fellow Nigerians.

He said that the 10th Senate, in the last one year passed 25 human interest bills.

“In the past legislative year, a year filled with significant events, we left an indelible mark on the pages of history with groundbreaking legislation that ignited the Nigerian spirit.

“We successfully passed twenty-five bills, diligently fulfilled our oversight responsibilities; fostered inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy; and intervened in matters close to the hearts of our fellow countrymen.

“With remarkable efficiency, we swiftly approved the 2024 appropriation bill in record time, setting the stage for the timely implementation of the budget.

“We championed the South-East Development Bill and the Northern Development Bill.

“Bridging the gap between our glorious past and our inspiring future, we dug into our history and restored the treasurable old National Anthem in the National Anthem Bill,” Akpabio said.

He said that the senate also stood firm in protecting the children and future generations, by passing the Death Penalty for Drug Traffickers Bill.

According to him, the 10th Senate prioritised the welfare of Nigerian judges by approving the bill to increase their salaries.

He said that naturally, the senate also took legislative actions that not only reshaped the socio-political landscape, but would reverberate through the corridors of time, benefiting the future generations.

Akpabio said that the student loan scheme, a flagship bill that exemplified compassion and patriotism stood as a testament to dedication of lawmakers.

According to him, it is the plan of the National Assembly to establish a state-of-the-art medical facility in close proximity for lawmakers, the Assembly staff, and their esteemed guests.

“This initiative aims to provide functional and effective healthcare for all,” the Senate President said.

He said that the National Assembly had completed and commissioned the National Assembly Library, and fostered inter-parliamentary friendship groups within the region and beyond.

“By promoting our democracy abroad, we not only increased our global presence but also paved the way for Foreign Direct Investment in vital projects within our beloved nation,” Akpabio said.

He said that the 10th Assembly had traversed many obstacles since inauguration, and that there were still many challenges ahead.

According to him, Nigeria is grappling with pressing issues that demand immediate attention, and the Senate could not turn blind eye to the burning problems that afflict nation.

“Insecurity, the need for economic growth and diversification; the fight against corruption; and the pursuit of social justice are just a few of the pivotal issues that require our patriotic commitment and collective determination.

“We must rise above partisan interests and prioritise the common good.

“Our mandate is not solely to legislate, but to be the voice of the people; representing their hopes and dreams; and working tirelessly to create a Nigeria that is fair; prosperous, and inclusive.

“Let us be the beacon of hope and progress that our people yearn for,” he said.

Akpabio expressed his deepest gratitude to the lawmakers for their unflinching dedication to effective representation and unyielding patriotism.

He said that in the face of challenges and responsibilities, the lawmakers had remained steadfast in their mission to serve the Nigerian people.

“You have been the voice of the voiceless, the champions of the marginalised, and the guardians of our shared aspirations.

“Your tireless efforts in the pursuit of justice, progress, and the common good have not gone unnoticed.

“You have exemplified the true essence of patriotism, placing the needs of our beloved nation above all else,” the State President said. (NAN)(www.nannewa.ng)

KC/FON/SH

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Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Sadiya Hamza

Movement

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 15, 2024(NAN)Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu has urged the re-constituted executives of OUK Movement, Abia’s largest socio-political ideological group, to intensify efforts at accomplishing the political goals of the group.

A statement from Kalu’s media office said he made the call on Saturday at his Igbere country home, where he inaugurated the newly reconstituted executives of the group.

Kalu, who expressed his disappointment over outcome of the 2023 elections in the state, urged the new leadership to redouble  mobilisation efforts at their various wards and local government areas to improve their fortunes in 2027.

According to Kalu, who represents Abia North Senatorial District under the platform of the All Progressives Congress,  only members who improve on their wards in favour of the party will have extra benefits.

He urged them to remain united and resist financial inducements.

Kalu also urged the group’s executive in Abia South and Central senatorial districts to emulate the executive of Abia North by deepening their grassroots mobilisation.

He urged them to prioritise their needs and give one another the necessary support needed for growth, given some challenges experienced in some local government areas.

Kalu assured them of total commitment and support to achieve the desired goals of the group for the general good of the APC.

The State Chairman of the group, Mr Ojisi Ogbaja, appreciated Kalu for his commitment in supporting the group.

He said the group had continued to witness influx of new members while announcing new strategies implemented by the group to bring better results.

According to him, the state leadership has decided to expand the leadership at the ward level to 57 to improve its grassroots strength.

“Put in your best because we need to win at all times; our target is to capture the political power of all the positions in the state.

“We have visited your wards without your knowledge to see what you are doing; we have 17 chairmen at the local government area and three zonal chairmen and five executives at the state level.

“At the ward level we have 27 executives and another 30 leaders to make it 57.

“We decided it is better to decongest the top and populate the grassroots because that is where the politics lies.

“Spreading is very important; the local government areas leaders must be liberal enough to spread the offices.

“Put yourself in the shoe of the person financing the group; every local government area also have a file opened at the state party headquarters,” he said(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

KC/CHOM/CJ/

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma and  Chijioke Okoronkwo

Eid-el-Kabir:Akpabio felicitates Muslim faithful

Felicitation

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 15,2024(NAN)President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has felicitated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of the Eid- el-Kabir celebration.

Akpabio, in a congratulatory message on Saturday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity,Mr Eseme Eyiboh,  said Eid-el-Kabir signified sacrifice and joy.

He advised Nigerians to make the necessary sacrifices for a better tomorrow, adding that the administration of President Bola Tinubu was not oblivious of the challenges faced by Nigerians.

Eyiboh quoted Akpabio as saying  that the tough reforms by the government were necessary to secure Nigeria for today and tomorrow.

“On behalf of my family, the people of Akwa Ibom North- West Senatorial District, the Senate and the entire 10th National Assembly, I congratulate our Muslim faithful on the occasion of the important feast of Eid-el-Kabir.

“May Allah grant you a joyous and peaceful celebration,”he said.

Akpabio said that the government was not unaware of the difficulties experienced by Nigerians as a result of its reforms.

He added, ”But these reforms are never to punish Nigerians but are meant to correct the mistakes of the past and make the country better and greater for the benefit of all.

“Even as you celebrate this all important feast of Eid-el-Kabir, we feel the pains of those of you who are struggling to meet up with their expected needs, we appeal to you to be patient as the good days are not far away.

“I want to appeal to you not to despair despite the inconveniences you are experiencing.

“Hard times, they say never last forever and your sacrifices can never be in vain as the government of President Tinubu is in a hurry to make life enjoyable for every Nigerian.”

The senate president assured that the 10th National Assembly under his leadership would work assiduously in collaboration with  Tinubu by providing the required legislative interventions for growth of the nation and benefit of all Nigerians.

Akpabio also congratulated Tinubu for celebrating the second Eid-el-Kabir in office as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

He prayed that God continue to bless him with wisdom and strength to deliver on his promises to Nigerians.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

KC/JAN/BRM

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Edited by Joan Nwagwu/Bashir Rabe Mnai

Bill

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja,June13,2024,(NAN)Stakeholders in the financial sector have raised concerns over some sections of the bill seeking to amend the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria(ICAN) Act.

Some of the  stakeholders raised the concerns during  a public hearing organised by Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Services Matters on the bill on Thursday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)reports that the bill, sponsored by Sen. Solomon Adeola,seeks  to amend the existing ICAN Act to address contemporary needs and trends in Nigeria’s economic environment.

The bill also seeks  to modernise the law   to reflect changes in professional accounting environment .

The bill, if passed, would be the first significant update to the Act, established 59 years.

Some of the stakeholders included the Chartered Institute of Taxation,(CITN), Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Chartered Institute of Secretaries, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria,Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria,Nigeria Institute of Management(NIM).

According to them, they are not opposed to ICAN amending its Act ,but are  against sections 15, 22, and 28 of the amendment  bill.

They argued that the sections were  designed to take up regulatory functions of other  similar professional bodies in the country.

The stakeholders,therefore ,called for the   removal of the sections they considered inappropriate , saying the bill was self serving.

Mr Samuel Adegbeluyi, President, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), said the proposed piece of legislation would embrace  other professions .

“The way they are going about the amendment is what we are against.You cannot use this amendment to annex other professional bodies that have been certified by an act of the National Assembly.”he said

Mr Adedoyin Olumide, Registrar of Chartered Institute of Treasury Management (CITM), said the content of the bill raised significant concerns regarding its scope and potential impact on other professional bodies.

He said inclusion of tax practice in the bill contradicted existing judicial rulings favouring  CITN.

According to him, the scope of the bill may lead to conflicts with existing laws and professional standards.

He said the amendment could create regulatory ambiguities and undermine the professional integrity of other specialised bodies.

“By virtue of this amendment, ICAN is indirectly asking and at the same time calling on the Senate of the Federal Republic to repeal all other pieces of legislation assented to and passed as an act of the National Assembly.

“While ICAN’s efforts to modernise are commendable, the bill’s extensive scope can  disrupt the professional ecosystem and lead to regulatory conflicts.

“We urge this distinguished Assembly  to expunge from this amendment bill, all the listed areas of specialisation already covered and passed into an Act of the  National Assembly.”

He said the ICAN Act  Amendment Bill  should focus on enhancing ICAN’s core competencies in accounting, auditing, and financial reporting, and collaborate with other bodies.

“ICAN should work with other professional bodies to delineate clear boundaries and avoid overlapping jurisdictions.”he said.

President of ICAN, Chief Davidson Alaribe,however,  said the amendment was to model ICAN Act to meet global best practices and standards in accounting practice.

He urged stakeholders to support the  amendments sought in the bill.

Earlier,Chairman of the committee, Sen.Cyril Fasuyi ,said the public hearing was organised  to receive inputs of stakeholders on the bill.

He assured the stakeholders that their views would be analysed and presented for consideration .

President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio,who declared the public hearing open,  said ICAN as a body, played an  important role in the economic development of the nation by ensuring professionalism and ethical conduct of its members.

He said the proposed amendment would further promote ethical standards and excellence in accounting profession.

Akpabio said contributions of stakeholders  would have a lasting impact on generations to come, hence they should uphold highest ethical standards in their contributions, and  strive for integrity and accountability.

Akpabio ,represented by Senate Majority Whip,  Mr Onyekachi Nwaebonyi ,urged all participants to ensure  their contributions promote the economic development of the nation.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

KC/CHOM/BHB

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Buhari Bolaji

Bill

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja,June11,2024(NAN)The Senate on Tuesday at plenary,  passed the 2024 Federal Capital Territory (FCT),  Supplementary Appropriation Bill of N98.5 billion.

This, followed presentation and adoption of report of Committee on FCT by the Vice Chairman, Sen.Osita Ngwu (PDP-Enugu).

Ngwu in his presentation,  said in line with provisions of  the 1999 Nigeria Constitution as amended, the 2024 FCT statutory supplementary appropriation bill,was read the first time on May 15.

He said following conclusion of the second reading on June 6, the bill was referred to the committee on FCT for further legislative action.

Ngwu said in accordance with sections 62, 80 ,88,89 and 299 of the 1999 constitution as amended, the committee met with the FCT minister and other relevant officials of FCT administration and deliberated on modalities to process the budget.

Ngwu said the FCT administration proposed  N98.5 billion for the 2024 FCT statutory supplementary appropriation.

According to him, the proposed sum is to augment priority areas of the FCT statutory appropriation capital expenditure.

He said the committee recommended for approval of N98.5 billion for 2024 FCT statutory supplementary appropriation.

Ngwu said in considering the budget, the committee worked harmoniously with the  House of Representatives to present one version of the appropriation bill for consideration of senate.

“On behalf of the committee, I hereby present the recommendations for consideration and passage of the FCT statutory supplementary appropriation bill into law,”Ngwu said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlight of the approved appropriation bill includes provision of N48.5 billion for local engineering services, education secretariat N18 billion, department of transportation N16 billion, while  N16 billion was earmarked for public building. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

KC/CHOM/SH

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Sadiya Hamza

Insecurity: Senate tasks security agencies, States, LGs on collaboration

Insecurity

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 6,2024(NAN)The Senate has urged security agencies to collaborate State and Local Governments,  traditional leaders on intelligence gathering to tackle insecurity in the country.

This is sequel to adoption of a motion on “urgent need to review security approach in addressing banditry attacks in Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna and Kebbi states” at plenary on Thursday in Abuja.

The motion was sponsored by Sen. Sani Zangon-Daura (APC-Katsina )and co-sponsored by 20 other senators.

Daura, said Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa and Kebbi states have been plagued by escalating banditry attacks, resulting in loss of lives, kidnapping for ransom, displacement of communities.

He said state governments have allocated significant funds to augment the operations of the security-agencies in combating banditry and restoring peace in the region.

He said the governors of the states in the north west region had affirmed their commitment to supporting an acceptable and workable initiatives that promote peace, security and development in the region.

Zagon-Daura said the governors had also pledged to work towards fostering a safe and secure environment for their people.

He, however, expressed concerned that the incessant banditry attacks on communities in north west region would significantly impact food production and agricultural activities.

This, he noted jeopardises food security and livelihoods of the people in the affected states of the region, especially in this wet season.

Contributing to the motion, Senate Minority Leader, Sen.Abba Moro (PDP- Benue )said right from the 8th and 9th Senate, issue of insecurity has been on the front burner of national discuss.

“In those days it used to be Boko Haram in the north east. Today it is banditry, herdsmen attack, kidnappings in the north west, north central.

“Moving down to the south east, south west, similar situations are happening.

“The time to take decisive action is now.

“I think the action required now goes beyond reviewing our security architecture.

“This was the subject of our security summit in the 9th Senate which could have end to this current situation that we find ourselves.

Moro said it was time for the President to call a meeting of stakeholders to find lasting solution on issue of insecurity.

Sen. Muntari Dandutse (APC-Katsina) said the north west region was highly affected,adding that the economic situation was very unfortunate.

He said 50,000 farm lands can not be accessed by farmers because of banditry and other criminality.

“In my senatorial district last week, these bandits, criminals and terrorists killed 122 people in Faskari, Bakori, Malunfasi and Kankara Local Governments.

“Also one of the wards in Faskari Local Government Area has been taken over by the bandits who now perform the functions security agencies, including escorts and they decide days people will be allowed to go out for legitimate duties.

“Unless we are honest, committed and have political will to deal with these criminal elements, because they are not above the law, if there is a coordinated and efforts of the security agencies.

“On May 27, between Seme and Yankara in Faskari LG along Sokoto road, the armed bandits in the early hours ambushed a newly acquired Armoured Personnel Carrier(APC) with a rocket launcher and destroyed it .

“The escalating violence and banditry in Katsina state and Northern region pose significant threat to all faucets of development,” he said.

Following the contributions of lawmakers on the motion, Senate further urged President Bola Tinubu to direct a thorough review and evaluation of strategies employed by security agencies in the region.

It called for deployment of additional security personnel, special task force to the identified hotspots to ensure protection of lives and properties.

It further urged the President to direct establishment of a task force to evaluate the effectiveness and implications of negotiating with bandits, conducting a thorough analysis of the short-term gains versus the long-term consequences of such actions.

It called on the security agencies to be proactive and innovative in their strategies to secure farmlands so that farmers may return to their farms, to ensure increased food production and food security.

This, the senate said would mitigate against the ever rising food inflation currently being experienced in the country.(NAN) www.nannews.ng

KC/SH

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

Death

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 6, 2024(NAN) The Senate has mandated the Committee on Solid Minerals to investigate the cause of a rockslide in Farin Doki community, Shiroro Local Government of Niger.

The rockslide buried 30 informal miners alive in a gold mining site.

This followed the adoption of a motion at plenary on Thursday in Abuja on an “urgent need to address incident of the rockslide.”

The motion was sponsored by Sen. Mohammed Sani (APC-Niger East).

Sani said that on June 3, a catastrophic rockslide occurred at an open pit gold mine, resulting in 30 local informal miners being buried alive in the Farin Doki Community.

He said that the site was near Erena in Shiroro Local Government, Niger East Senatorial District.

Sani said the miners, in their quests for gold and lithium minerals, met their untimely death as the avalanche caved in; burying them under tons of rubbles.

He said the tragic incident underscored the urgent need for a holistic action to be taken to address the dangers faced and posed by local mining activities across the country.

Sani said it was imperative to secure the mining sites to forestall future occurrence and avoid further loss of life.

“This will go a long way to ensure that mining activities are conducted safely and legally to prevent future tragedies and improve the overall well- being of miners across the country,” he said.

He expressed worry that bodies of the deceased had yet to be recovered for proper burial by their respective families.

According to Sani, conscious efforts should be made by relevant agencies of government for the recovery of the bodies for burial.

He said given that Nigeria was desirous of diversifying its economy, adding that the mining sub-sector was lucrative enough and should be adequately exploited for the socio-economic development of the country.

“As such, the appropriate authorities should as a matter of urgency and necessity, initiate thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident so as to identify any existing lapses.

“As part of remedies to bring sanity to the system, strict regulations should be introduced in order to protect the lives of those who depend on this industry for their livelihood.

“It is also apt for relevant committees of the National Assembly to step up their oversight of mining activities across the country for the purpose of harnessing the benefits that abound in the sector,’’ he said.

The Senate, after observing a minute silence in honour of the victims, commended the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, for his swift response in monitoring the situation.

The Senate also urged the Federal Government to come out with strict safety measures and regulation on mining activities in Nigeria in line with international best practices.

The Senate also called for deployment of adequate security apparatus to the mining communities to maintain vigilance around mining areas to prevent further incursions and intrusion by informal miners.

It urged the National Emergency Management Agency and other relevant agencies of government to expedite actions on the recovery of the remains of the deceased in the catastrophe.

According to the upper chamber, such recovery will ensure that the bereaved families have final closure on their loved ones.

The Senate also urged the committee to accelerate the passage of the Mine Ranger Bill currently before the Senate. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

KC/DE/CJ/

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Edited by Dorcas Jonah and Chijioke Okoronkwo

2024 FCT Supplementary Budget scales 2nd reading in Senate

Budget

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 6, 2024 (NAN) The Senate has passed for second reading the 2024 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Supplementary Budget of N98.5 billion.

This followed the presentation of the budget estimates by the Deputy leader of the Senate, Sen. Lola Ashiru (APC-Kwara)at plenary on Thursday in Abuja.

The Senate had on June 5 stood down the consideration of the budget for lack of details on the document presented to the lawmakers.

Deputy President of the Senate Barau Jibrin (APC-Kano), urged his colleagues to allow the passage of the bill to second reading, following the presentation of the details of the budget.

Jibrin said that the lawmakers had previously debated on the budget before it was stood down.

Following Barau’s submission, the budget was consequently read for the second time.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, thereafter referred the budget to the Committee on FCT for further legislative inputs and to report back in two weeks to plenary.(NAN)www.nannews.ng

KC/FEO/JPE

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Edited by Francis Onyeukwu/Joseph Edeh

Budget

By Kingsley Okoye

Abuja, June 5,2024(NAN) The Senate on Wednesday stood down the 2024 FCT Supplementary Budget of ₦98.5 billion, over lack of details on  projected revenue and expenditure in  the budget document presented to lawmakers.

Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele (APC-Ekiti) had presented the proposed estimate without a detailed break down of the expected revenue and expenditure.

Opeyemi in his presentation,  said the bill was read for the first time on May 15.

He said the FCT 2024 supplementary budget was to consolidate on the magnitude and scope of ongoing projects simultaneously within the city center  and across six area councils.

This, he said, was to ensure the Renewed Hope Mantra for a befitting capital city for Nigeria and Nigerians was achieved accordingly.

Contributing, Sen. Ede Dafinone (APC- Delta) and Sen. Sani Musa (APC-Niger) raised concerns over lack of details on the budget document presented to the lawmakers.

Musa specially said the budget document did not indicate how revenue was generated and utilised in the previous budget.

He said details of budget performance of previous budget was not also captured in the supplementary budget.

President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio acknowledged non inclusion of the budget details.

However,when the budget was put to a voice vote, the “nays” were loudest but Akpabio did not hit the gravel.

Opeyemi, thereafter,  explained that Chairman of Senate Committee on FCT Sen.Ibrahim Bomai had  details of the budget but the details was not part of the lead debate that was given to him to present at plenary.

Following his explanation, the budget was stood down to allow for provision of details going forward (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

KC/CHOM/SH

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Sadiya Hamza