Author: Salisu Saniidris

Residence

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu on Friday in Abuja inaugurated the N21 billion official residence of the Vice President, abandoned since 2015.

Tinubu, represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the event,, reaffirmed the unwavering dedication of his administration to the principles of accountability, transparency and efficient utilisation of resources for the betterment of the country.

He stated that a provision of suitable residence for the Vice President was not merely a matter of convenience, but a symbol of respect for the office and the individuals occupying it.

Tinubu added that the completion of the project was a testimony to the respect and affection that the President had for the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

” President Bola Tinubu deserves special commendations. We have seen how Vice President were treated in the past.

” However, with the present dispensation, it is a different ball game,” he said

The President said that the decision to complete the project after going through the required due process was highly commendable.

According to him, “it is not a secret that the project has faced numerous challenges over the years, including delayed and abandonment by the previous administration.

” However, rather than dwell on past shortcomings, we have chosen to take this opportunity to demonstrate our resolve to confront obstacles, head on.

“We also resolved to deliver on the promises made to the Nigerians, in line with our Renewed Hope Agenda which has, completion of inherited projects, as one of its cardinal objectives.

” As we commission this state-of-the-art edifice,  we are fulfilling a long standing commitment and reaffirming our unwavering dedication to accountability, transparency and efficient utilisation of resources for the betterment of the our nation.

“I hold a very strong opinion that abandoning projects after substantial expenditures has been incurred is inherently wasteful.

” It is in the best interest of the government and the public, to see them through to completion,” he said

Tinubu expressed gratitude to the FCT Administration for taking up the responsibility  to complete the project to avoid wastage of taxpayers’ money.

Earlier, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, said that the project was awarded in 2010 at the cost of N7 billion, but was abandoned in 2015.

” It was in January this year (2024), that we had to review the project to N21 billion, from N7 billion, that means additional N14 billion.

” For a Vice-President residence to take 14 good years and then Mr President, within a year, made it a reality; this is what is called, renewed hope,” he said.

Wike recalled that when he came on board in August 2023, the project site was a bush.

“I, therefore, went to the  President and told him criminals had taken over the place and the President directed that I should make sure that the project is completed,” he said.

The Minister thanked the President for supporting the completion of the project and ensuring his Vice lived in a comfortable environment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ngr)

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Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Grant

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Ado-Ekiti, June 6, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu has directed the disbursement of N150,000 grant to each participant of the Expanded National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinic.

Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this on Thursday while declaring open the third edition of the MSMEs Clinic at the Trade Fair Complex, Old Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the expanded National MSME Clinics is one of federal government’s strategies for ease of doing business in Nigeria.

It is a series of business forum organised in different cities across the country to proffer on-the-spot solutions to challenges confronting MSMEs.

NAN reports the first and second editions of the clinics were launched in Benue and Ogun states respectively earlier in the year.

The Vice-President explained that the N150,000 was an outright grant that does not require beneficiaries to repay.

” I am pleased to share that Mr President has directed me to ensure that all outstanding exhibiting MSMEs at the Clinic today receive a grant of N150,000 each.

” This is an outright grant, and the beneficiaries will not need to repay it. We extend our gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support,” he said.

Shettima disclosed that the same clinics would be launched in Borno and Enugu States ” before culminating in the National MSME Awards in FCT on June 27, to commemorate the United Nations World MSME Day.

He noted that small businesses “are the lifelines of communities across the nation and a strong pillar of stability during this critical phase of our economic transition”.

” We cannot claim to have excelled in our interventions unless they remain our top priority.

” Our commitment to revitalising the MSME sector ensures that these businesses continue to serve their essential buffering function,” he explained.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports earlier on his arrival in the state, Shettima, who was received by Gov. Biodun Oyebanji and other top government officials, commissioned the Ekiti State Ultra-Modern Fashion and Garment Hub at Odua Textile Complex, Basiri, Ado Ekiti.

The Vice-President and his entourage also inspected the Adire Ekiti Hub, a pet project of the first lady of the state.

Shettima said while it competes ideally with others globally, the hub has the potential of creating an estimated 48,000 jobs annually.

He described the hub as a significant milestone by the Tinubu’s administration to empower local industries.

” It boasts the capacity to produce a wide range of fashion gear, including military uniforms, and rivals any facility in the world.

” Equipped with modern-day machinery and technology, this hub holds immense potential for job creation, with projections estimating an average of 48,000 jobs annually.

” We anticipate that this facility will be managed by a competent private sector entity, while both federal and state governments will maintain vigilant oversight over its operations.

” With over 300 pieces of cutting-edge equipment, this hub represents a significant milestone in our efforts to empower local industries,” he said

In his remarks, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the Vice-president for his wise counsel and support for his administration in the state.

He noted that President Tinubu had, indeed, been a father, who has fulfilled all of his campaign promises.

He called on the political class in Ekiti to support his administration, noting that “it is only in unity that we can attract so much for the good of the our people.”

Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele commended the effective collaboration between the federal and state governments, culminating in the execution of the MSME focused projects.

He disclosed plans by his office to devote a portion of his constituency project funds in the coming year to support the development of MSMEs in the state.

The Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, assured the people of the state that their welfare and wellbeing were being prioritised by the Tinubu administration.

He urged Ekiti people to support the federal government regardless of the prevailing conditions, assuring that “the future is bright, as Nigeria is going through the challenges of economic restructuring and socio-economic re-engineering.” (NAN)

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Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Wike

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 5, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu says, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike “is one of the best appointments ever made in the history of the current democratic dispensation.

The President stated this on Wednesday in Abuja, during the inauguration of the Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) and the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), known as the first phase of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Expressway

Represented by his Vice, Kashim Shettima,  the President described Wike as ‘a force of human nature’, adding, “love him, hate him, but you can’t ignore him, because at every point in time he is redefining the meaning and concepts of modern leadership.

The President commended Wike and his team, for their dedication and hard work in delivering many projects, including the expressway in less than one year.

Tinubu reiterated the commitment of his administration to engendering progress and prosperity.

He said that the extension of the ISEX represented more than just a road, but, symbolized connectivity, accessibility and opportunity.

” It also signifies our unwavering determination to bridge the gab between the urban and rural areas in ensuring that development was not confined to city centres but reaches every corner of our great nation.

” We celebrates not just the completion of yet another road project by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), but also the commitment of our administration to endangering progress and prosperity.

“Today’s commission is the fourth completed roads that we proudly unveiled in the Federal Capital Territory, all executed in less than one year.

” These roads are tangible proves of our administration vision for modern, prosperous and inclusive Federal Capital Territory.”

Tinubu assured that in the coming months and years, his administration would continue to prioritise infrastructure development as a corners stone of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

” We remain committed on delivering on our promises, empowering our people and building a nation that we can all be proud of,” he said. (NAN) (nannewsngr.com)

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Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Strike

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 3, 2024 (NAN) The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has cautioned the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), against disrupting the ongoing transportation of Nigeria pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

The Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Mrs Fatima Usara, gave the advice in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Usara also empahaised the need for the NLC to respect the sensitivity of “this divine devotion and not to encroach on its movement”.

“Information reaching NAHCON indicates that there are plans by a section of the NLC to disrupt the ongoing Hajj operations.

“This is coming in spite of the initial understanding that Hajj flights would not be affected.

“The commission appreciates concern of the NLC over the welfare of its members, however, NAHCON wants it to respect the sanctity of Hajj as a religious obligation which Muslims do not take lightly.

“The commission advises NLC to apply caution and not to tamper with the Hajj conveyance as a courtesy to the Muslim faith.

“Disruptive action against the smoothness of the operation will deprive intending muslims their fundamental right to worship considering the limited time left before closure of Jeddah and Madinah airports for the pilgrimage,” the statement added.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that no fewer than 65,500 Nigerians are expected to perform the 2024 pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.

NAHCON records indicate that the commission has so far transported 38,805 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia in 92 flights. (NAN)

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Nigerians

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, May 3, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu on Monday in Abuja reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing the quality of lives for all Nigerians.

Represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu stated this at the commissioning of the Expansion of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road 1 (RRI).

He said that the expansion of the outer southern motorway would not only alleviate traffic congestion and improve transportation but would also stimulate economic growth and create opportunities for prosperity.

Tinubu said, “What is unfolding in our capital city is a testament to what can be achieved with our government Renewed Hope Agenda, quality transformation of the Federal Capital Territory and indeed Nigeria.

“This ambitious undertaken holds profound significance for the FCT and its residence. With additional interchanges we are enhancing connectivity and accessibility.

“Making it easier for residence and visitors alike to navigate our beautiful capital city.”

The President, therefore, commended the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike and his remarkable team in the territory, for their visionary leadership and tireless dedication to the upliftment of the capital city.

“Wike is redefining the meaning and concepts of modern leadership in Nigeria.

“The President is mightily proud of you for your dedication, for your persistent, for your courage and the will to do well.”

Tinubu, who asked Wike to stand and take a bow, noted that under Wike’s leadership, FCT had witnessed remarkable strive in infrastructural development, urban planning and sustainable growth in the nation’s capital.

“Under Wike, we have proven to the world that what counts is leadership, and what this nation needs is quality leadership.

“The completion of this motorway expansion is not merely a field of engineering but a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership.

“It is a shining example of what we can accomplish when we work together, towards a common goal transcending political divide and personal interest for the greater good of our nation.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Clinics

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 3, 2024 (NAN) The Saudi Ministry of Health has granted an approval for the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to operate two main clinics for the Nigerian pilgrims in Makkah.

The Executive Chairman of NAHCON, Malam Jalal Arabi, made this known in a statement by the commission’s Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Mrs Fatima Sanda-Usara, on Sunday in Abuja.

Arabi said the approval letter was received by Dr Abubakar Isma’eel, NAHCON’s Head of Medical Mission for the 2024 Hajj Season.

“The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is happy to announce that it has received an approval to operate two main clinics in Makkah for the meantime.

“The Saudi Ministry of Health revealed this development through its Medical Consultants attached to Ithra Alkhair company, NAHCON’s chosen Service Providers otherwise known as Mu’assasa.

“The two main clinics are those located at Masfala/Kudai and Shari’e Al-Mansour areas. They serve as the Medical Head offices,” he said.

Arabi also said that approval to start running three other outpost clinics (Triage Outposts 1, 2 & 3) was still being awaited.

“Dr A-Isma’eel expressed optimism that within the next 48-72 hours, the three outposts would also receive full approval to operate optimally.

“The proposed outposts are located at Nasarawa, Ogun/Oyo and Borno pilgrims Houses in Makkah respectively,” the chairman explained.

He said that the GPS of the outpost locations would be made available to the Nigerian pilgrims within hours of approval.

“It should be noted that the outposts are strategically situated within pilgrims’ hotel clusters to aid accessibility,” he noted.

He said that NAHCON had already deployed its team of professional medics “who are set to provide healthcare services to Nigerian pilgrims.”

The chairman solicited the cooperation of Nigerian pilgrims for the measures put in place to succeed. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Muhammad Lawal

Lawyers

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Ilorin (Kwarai State) , June 1, 2024 (NAN) Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerian lawyers to be unwavering in their defense of the rule of law, justice and judicial autonomy.

Shettima made the call on Saturday in Ilorin at the 30th anniversary celebration of Yusuf Ali & Co, law firm owned by renowned legal luminary, Malam Yusuf Ali (SAN).

While delivering his keynote address titled, “Justice, Truth and Our Divergent Pursuits of the Ideal Political System,” he applauded President Bola Tinubu’s non-interference in election exercises.

The Vice-President also commended Tinubu for his refusal to weaponise state instruments to protect perceived allies on trial.

“This commitment to the principle of separation of powers binds us. We shall continue to adhere to it.

“We shall trust you (lawyers), to do your part in the service of the nation,” he said.

Shettima noted that President Tinubu’s hands-off approach had strengthened Nigeria’s democracy, setting a precedent for future administrations to uphold the independence of the judiciary.

He urged legal practitioners to emulate such ethos, asserting that true lawyers are those who meticulously prepare for court, argue based on facts and legal principles, and courageously challenge injustice wherever it exists.”

The VP extolled the virtues of Yusuf Ali & Co., lauding its unwavering commitment to the principles of justice over the past three decades.

He described the firm as “a bastion of excellence, resisting compromise under both military and democratic regimes.

“Malam Yusuf O. Ali and his esteemed partners have stood firm because of their unyielding commitment to the lofty ideals of justice.”

He also highlighted the Federal Government’s recent legal action to ensure full financial autonomy for local governments.

He referred to it as a convergence that should be prioritised in realising an ideal federal system.

He urged lawyers to be ethically committed to the pursuit of justice, deeming it crucial for a functional tripartite system.

“Without that sacrifice, we are all bound for doom from which we may never recover.”

He praised Yusuf Ali & Co.’s enduring legacy as a testament to the immortality of truth and justice.

Earlier, Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwola, had praised the celebrant, Prof. Yusuf Ali, for excelling in his chosen profession, and for defending the less privileged in the society.

Also, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, commended the celebrant for contributing a lot to the legal profession in Nigeria.

He commended Prof Ali’s hard work and show of integrity.

Similarly, Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, applauded President Tinubu for introducing his Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to him, the agenda is improving the lives of Nigerians.

Represented by his Deputy, Kayode Alabi, AbdulRazaq called on all Nigerians to support Tinubu, who is ready to improve the quality of life through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The governor further thanked the President for promoting separation of powers and judicial reforms.

Guest Speaker at the event, former Lagos State Governor and Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, advocated for the continuation of Nigeria’s presidential system of government.

He said those calling for the return of parliamentary rule in Nigeria had no reason to do so because it had failed Nigerians in the past.

“I, therefore, express my strong support for a Presidential system, with the current federal structure that we have.

“Any democracy, be it parliamentary or presidential, needs an educated society to thrive. That will also help the people to know the rules of the game.” (NAN)

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Transportation

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 1, 2024 (NAN) Flynas, a Saudi designated air carrier, says it has so far transported no fewer than 13,112 Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage.

The Managing Director, First Planet Travels and General Sales Agent (GSA) of Flynas, Alhaji Umar Kaila, made this known in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

He said, ” This represents 68.4 per cent of the airline’s total allocation, according to its official data.

” The airline has so far operated 32 flights from Lagos, Birnin Kebbi, Maiduguri, Sokoto and Minna airports. ”

Kaila assured all the pilgrims of a seamless transportation to the holy land and back to Nigeria.

He explained that the airline was the official Hajj carrier of state pilgrims from Kebbi, Lagos, Borno, Osun, Ogun, Sokoto, Kebbi, Yobe and Zamfara for the 2024 Hajj operation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that flynas is one of the three airlines approved by the Federal Government to transport 51,000 state pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj.

The two other airlines are Max Air and Air Peace.

NAN reports that a total of 32,222 Nigerian pilgrims have been transported to Madinah and Jeddah so far, according to the Command and Control Centre of NAHCON. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Card

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 1, 2024 (NAN) The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has urged pilgrims to ensure the use of NUSUK card ( identification and access card) to avoid being arrested by the Saudi  Arabian Authority.

Its Executive Chairman, Malam Jalal Arabi, made the call in a statement by the commission’s Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Mrs Fatima Sanda-Usara, on Saturday in Abuja.

She said, ” The commission wishes to address the recent concerns and complaints regarding pilgrims being arrested or prevented from accessing the Masjidul Haram in Makkah for not being in possession of their NUSUK ID cards.

” NAHCON had at different fora with State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Hajj Tour Operators in Nigeria before the commencement of transportation of pilgrims stressed the importance of the card.

” The card is a crucial document required for identification and access to the masha’er during the hajj exercise.

” The highest religious body of Saudi Arabia has issued a fatwa in this regard making it mandatory for every pilgrim to obtain a Hajj permit for the wellbeing of all.”

Snda-Usara quoted Arabi as reminding all the Nigerian pilgrims of the mandatory possession of Nusuk ID cards, adding that all the pilgrims must collect their cards on arrival in Makkah from officials at designated distribution points.

He said that pilgrims could inquire about collection procedures from the State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards or Tour Operators they registered with.

Arabi said, ” It is imperative to always carry these cards, as they are the recognised means of identifying pilgrims and for having access to key areas during hajj.

” Pilgrims with smartphones can download the card app from play store or itunes stores. They can use their passport and visa numbers to activate and access digital copies of their cards.”

He enjoined pilgrims to be vigilant and aware of the presence of illegal pilgrims attempting to steal and use the cards to gain access to the Masha’er.

The chairman added, ” Guard your cards carefully and report any suspicious activity to the nearest authorities.”

He also urged all State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Boards and Tour Operators to emphasise the importance of the cards to registered pilgrims during their pre-departure briefings and periodic engagements with pilgrims.

” Assist pilgrims in collecting their NUSUK cards if needed and Liaise with their respective field offices for this purpose.

” There are severe penalties for anyone caught performing or aiding others to perform hajj illegally. The penalties include a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals.

” Six months imprisonment, immediate deportation and banning from Saudi Arabia for 10 years.

” We understand that some pilgrims may have misplaced their NUSUK cards. In such cases, pilgrims should contact their respective state pilgrims’ officials or NAHCON’s operational office in Makkah for assistance,” he said.

Arabi urged all the pilgrims to adhere strictly to the guidelines to avoid any inconvenience or disruption in their spiritual journey.

Similarly, he warned them against harbouring or aiding any illegal pilgrim, reiterating that NAHCON was committed to ensuring a smooth and safe hajj experience for all Nigerian pilgrims. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani