Sokoto, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), has extended his felicitations to Nigerian Muslims on the occasion of Eid-el Kabir.
In his Sallah message on Sunday, Abubakar urged Nigerians to commit more to farming as a means to alleviate societal economic hardship and address the high cost of living in the country.
“We are fully aware that the leaders in the country are doing their best to ease the hardship, but more needs to be done.
“Our people, particularly in the North, are in a very difficult situation. Therefore, leaders need to do more in tackling the current challenges,” he said.
The Sultan further urged farmers to make the most of the rainy season to ensure sufficient food production to meet societal demand.
“We should all go back to farming and produce food because doing so will ease our condition and boost the country’s economy,” he advised.
Abubakar also called on Muslims to continue praying for the leaders, emphasising that only prayers could support the desired needs of any society.
He appreciated the security agencies in the country for their sustained dedication to ensuring the safety of all citizens.
The Sultan applauded Gov. Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State for his commitment to supporting the less-privileged in the state and urged the people to continue living peacefully with one another.
He thanked the Muslim community for the continued dedication to propagating the true essence of Islam, and urged them to have full faith that the country’s challenges would soon be over.
He also prayed for the safe return of the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, urging them to pray for Nigeria and its leaders. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Stay away from Kogi or pay the price- Ododo warns criminals
L-R: The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Dr Ahmed Tijani Anaje; Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State; Chief of Staff to the Gov., Ali Bello; Kogi APC Chairman, Abdullahi Bello; and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Deedat Ozigi, during the Eid-el-Fitr prayer on Sunday at Okene Eid Praying ground.
Sallah
By Stephen Adeleye
Okene (Kogi), June 16, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has told criminal elements to stay away from the state warning that Kogi is not a fertile ground for criminality.
Ododo gave the warning while speaking to newsmen shortly after observing his Eid-el-Kabir prayer on Sunday at Okene Eid Praying ground.
The governor said the perpetrators behind the kidnapped students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Osara, came to test his administration’s capacity but faced the consequences.
“They came to test the waters, to find out what our reactions will be, and truly they faced the consequences of their actions.
“Kogi is not a fertile land for anybody to come and trade free in terms of crimes and criminality.
“They have come and they have seen the results; if they dire come in their numbers they will go back in their zeros.
“I can’t tell you what awaits them, but I hope they will never try it again,” Ododo said.
He said the government was able to rescue 29 out of the 31 kidnapped CUSTECH students, adding that unfortunately two were killed by the abductors.
Ododo prayed God to rest their souls and comfort their family members.
“Security is one of our top priorities and responsibilities in Kogi, that is why we are doing everything possible with the support of Mr President to make sure that every soul in this state is protected and secured”, he said.
He appreciated heads of all security agencies as well as the vigilantes and hunters for working in synergy to protect the lives and property of the citizenry.
On the prompt payment of workers salaries, Ododo said government was carrying out responsibilities to the citizens and not doing them a favour.
“We are doing what we are supposed to do as a government for the people of Kogi state, especially the civil servants
“When your people are happy they will be so excited to engage in their duties and do their job diligently thereby increasing productivity.
“So, it is part of our responsibilities.to take care of our people, and we are doing it with the help of God and with the support of Mr President,” he said.
Ododo commended President Tinubu for all his efforts in the nation and urged Nigerians to continue to support him by keying into all his programmes and policies.
“I urge the people of Kogi and the entire Nigerians to continue to pray for our leaders especially Mr President so that we can jointly pull ourselves out of this inherited economic crisis”, he said.
The governor admonished the people to use the Sallah celebration to remember the less privileged among them by extending their hands of kindness and support to them.
“It is period that encompasses sacrifice and submission to the will of God Almighty.
“I urge everyone of us to continue to be a good ambassador of our dear state and the country at large,” Ododo said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
ASA/TYC/KUA
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Edited by Thompson Yamput/Uche Anunne
Makurdi, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Hyacinth Alia of Benue has urged Muslim faithful to spread the love, sacrifice, tolerance and unity as exhibited by Holy Prophet Mohammed.
Alia made the call on Sunday in a statement while felicitating the Muslim faithful, as they celebrate this year’s Eid-el Kabir, a significant spiritual event in the Muslim calendar.
The statement was signed by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Sir Tersoo Kula and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi.
He urged Muslims to continue to pray and support his administration and that of the Tinubu-led Federal Government, as they strive hard to fulfill their electoral mandate to the people.
The Governor expressed optimism that the state and country would surely overcome their current economic and security challenges.
He wished the Muslim faithful a happy celebration. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
New ICAN chairman pledges to enhance professionalism in Nyanya-Mararaba District
New President of Nyanya-Mararaba and District Society, Mrs Onilede Oluwafunmilayo Iyanu (2nd Left), Rep of ICAN President Mrs Lucy Okena (3rd Left) and Rep of Registrar of ICAN, Mr Adamu Yusuf (1st Left) during the Investiture of Iyanu on Saturday at Karu in Abuja
Chairman
By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Nyanya-Mararaba and District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) has elected Mrs Onilede Oluwafunmilayo Iyanu as the chairman, with a promise to enhance professionalism.
Iyanu made the pledge in her acceptance speech, shortly after her investiture as the 4th Chairman and the first female chairman of the District on Saturday in Karu, Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other members of the executive include Mrs Idris Adeyiyi Kafilat as Vice Chairman, Mr Odiaka Gerald as General Secretary and Miss Fausat Yusuf as Assistant General Secretary.
Others are Mr Christopher Daniel as Treasurer, Mr Alade Bako as Financial Secretary, Mrs Elekanachi Nneoma as Technical Secretary, Mr Obama Friday as Publicity/Social Secretary and Chinedu Okpo as Ex-Officio.
They are to run the affairs of the district for one year.
Iyanu expressed her gratitude to members of the District for placing their trust and confidence in her to lead the esteemed and fastest growing district in the country.
“It is a privilege to serve alongside such talented and dedicatee professionals who are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and ethical conduct in the field of accountancy.
“I am fully aware of the immense responsibility that comes with this position, and I want to assure each and everyone of you that, I will approach my duties with unwavering commitment, integrity and transparency.
“Our outlook for 2024/2025 chairmanship year include ‘Catch Them Young Programmes’, Land Acquisition to Build Office for the District’, Seminars and Technical Sessions’ to enhance professionalism and capacity-building initiative of ICAN.
“Others are, ‘4th Annual Dinner and Award Night’ and ‘End of the Year Thanksgiving’ and activities that would involve visitation to the less privileged in orphanages, hospitals, churches, /mosques, donations, picnic and many others.
“We also solicit for moral and financial support to enable us execute these compendium, laudable and life-touching programmes,” she said.
Speaking, the ICAN President, Davidson Alaribe, represented by a member of Governing Council and Coordinator of the district, Mrs Lucy Okena, congratulated Iyanu and the new executive.
“We are confident that your leadership will continue to champion the values of ICAN in this jurisdiction. Thanks to Yahaya Akeem and his team for their valuable contributions.
“As a district close to seat of power, the Nyanya-Mararaba and District Society is one of the youngest, yet one of the fastest growing district of the institute.
“In just four years, the district embarked on various impactful initiatives including Corporate Social Responsibility Programme and other initiatives of ICAN that have impacted the people, professional Community and the local economy of Nyanya-Mararaba.
“May I use this opportunity to urge Iyanu and her team to be guided by the principle and values of the Institute and also know that leadership is a privilege and not a right.
“I encourage you to commit yourself in serving the members of the district and ensure that the efforts of the past leaders must not go down the drain,” Alaribe said.
He further urge them to work on the effort of the past leaders to keep the flag of professionalism and excellence flying in the district, including the catch them young activities.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the occasion, Dr Samson Adegoke in his opening remark said ICAN, established about six decades ago has been instrumental in promoting accountability, transparency and ethical practice in Nigeria’s financial sector.
“Today’s investiture underscores our responsibility to uphold integrity, competence and accountability as Chartered Accountants. We must remain committed to excellence and adapt to meet the profession’s and society’s changing needs”.
Similarly, the Head of Abuja Liaison Office of ICAN, Mr Adams Yusuf, who represented the Registrar of the Institute, Dr Lanre Olasunkanmin, said districts were operated to attend to issues of members.
“The institute have over 63,000 members, there is no way the umbrella body will be able to attend to the needs of all the members; and the districts are to impact positively on the environment they exist”.
The immediate past chairman of the Nyanya-Mararaba and District Society, Mr Yahaya Akeem, said the journey was not easy.
“But, we thank God, there is light at the end of the tunnel, because, ICAN has a way of carrying out its activities. There are standard and procedure to follow, like the catch them young Programmes and training and retraining of members”.
NAN reports the event attracted relevant stakeholding which culminated at Iyanu and her team taking the oath of office. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu has congratulated fathers, including paternal figures, who have contributed to shaping the destiny of the nation with their sacrifices.
Tinubu also congratulated fathers for their forbearance, provision, protection and guidance of the young ones, to the noble and true path.
The President made the remarks in a statement issued by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, on the occasion of Father’s Day marked every June 16.
“The President states that Father’s Day is significant for its purpose as a day set apart to honour all fathers – living, deceased and paternal figures.
“President Tinubu affirms that society is in better stead with fathers who rise to the great demand of responsibility, guiding the children through the vagaries of existence and preparing them for the future,” he said.
He added that society was also better off when fathers bequeathed to children pristine values that money or material comfort could not provide, but only by personal example of discipline, integrity, service, respect, love and allegiance to the nation.
“The President salutes all fathers, the sung and the unsung, who brave the toil of the day and the soreness of the night to provide for their families, describing them as true heroes.
“President Tinubu urges fathers to stay true to their bounden commitment of positively shaping the destinies of those to whom the future belongs.
“The President wishes Nigerians happy Father’s Day,” Ngalele said in the statement.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Father’s Day has its origins in the middle ages, and official roots in West Virginia, the United States, where an event was held in 1908 to celebrate 362 men who died in an explosion at a coal mining company. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Environment
By Henry Oladele
Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Environmental experts have called for attitudinal change and sustainable practices among Nigerians to curb ecosystem loss.
The experts said this in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.
They also noted that all hands must be on deck to tackle human-induced environmental damage that affects the ecosystem.
Mr Taiwo Adewole, an environmental consultant, told NAN that the human-induced environmental damage had far-reaching consequences for the ecosystem, biodiversity, and climate change.
Adewole emphasised that there was the need for sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
“We can see clearly the various human-induced environmental damage such as the climate change and ecosystem loss.
“Deforestation is one of the human induced environmental damage.
“Another one is clearing forests for agriculture, urbanisation, and logging, leading to loss of biodiversity and increased greenhouse gas emissions,” he said.
He added that another human induced damage was pollution, releasing harmful substances into the environment, such as plastics, chemicals, and industrial waste, which contaminate air, water, and soil.
“Land degradation is also an human activities that damage soil quality, reduce fertility, and alter ecosystems.
“Burning fossil fuels and other human activities that release large amounts of greenhouse gases, leading to global warming and altered ecosystems.
“We must switch from linear to circular economy, from fossil fuel to renewable sources,” he said.
He added that the people also needed to be educated and sensitise on environmental issues.
“We need to integrate environmental education into school curricula and public awareness campaigns to promote sustainability and eco-friendly practices,”he said.
A climate change enthusiast, Mr Emmanuel Emechete, told NAN that some implementations could help curb human induced environmental damage.
Emechete said that creating and enforcing environmental policies would help individuals and businesses to practice sustainability in their daily lives and businesses.
“Without a policy or law, many would take the cheapest or most available practice or method and get away with it.
“For example illegal waste disposal, deforestation, bush burning, gas flaring among others,” he said
He said encouraging and pushing for sustainable behavioural change and practices could also curb human-induced environmental damage.
Emechete added that the necessary infrastructure should be in place to avoid illegal disposal of waste.
“If the government establish policies saying no illegal disposal of waste then they must provide for people to do it the proper way.
“The samething is applicable to organisations, if organisation wants its employees to work sustainably, they must also encourage this with infrastructure and systems to make it’s possible.
“Individuals, government, families and communities must be aware of environmental issues.
“Everyone must be aware of the policies implemented to curb and mitigate environment issues.
“They must be taught on how to mitigate this event and about the policies, law or guidelines for sustainable environment practices,” he said.
He added that everyone needed to work together to curb these anthropogenic activities.
“Private and public sector, government, Families, religious bodies, among others can do more if we work together.
“With data driven research, we can find out the source of the problems and what to do to fix It.
“We can look at trends and proffer a solution based on projected predictions. We can know what has happened, why it has happened and predicted what will happen and what to do to change it.
“For example, the reason we know that the climate is changing is because we have models that help us make research of its happening to the earth’s temperature,” he said. (NAN)
HOB/JNC
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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma
Sango-Ota (Ogun), June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) Plc has extended its felicitations to Nigerians, especially Muslims, as they celebrate Eid-El-Kabir.
In a statement on Sunday in Ota, the Acting Managing Director of the company, Mr Francis Agoha, emphasised the importance of selflessness, brotherly love, and sacrifice in fostering unity and prosperity for Nigeria.
According to Agoha, these are some of the key values extolled during the season.
He reaffirmed IBEDC’s dedication to providing quality service, within its control, even during and after the holidays.
Agoha assured customers that technical teams are committed to promptly resolving any faults that may occur during this period.
“We appeal to customers to refrain from engaging in energy theft, as it contradicts Eid-El-Kabir’s spirit of honesty and sacrifice.
“Energy theft is a criminal offence that undermines the quality of service for all customers,” he stated.
Agoha encouraged customers to report any issues or complaints to IBEDC offices or call the customer care line at 07001239999 instead of resorting to illegal activities.
He also warned against tampering with electrical installations, highlighting the dangers of such actions that could lead to severe electrical accidents.
The IBEDC boss advised customers to ensure proper earthing of their premises as part of their safety measures.
He managing director encouraged customers to utilise IBEDC’s hassle-free payment channels for bill settlements and vending to avoid disconnection.
He listed the authorised payment channels as the IBEDCPAY app for Android and iOS users, FetsWallet, Quickteller, Payarena, Jumia, Watu, Buypower and ATMs.
He noted that IBEDC offices would remain open during public holidays from 9:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m. to address customer needs.
Agoha said that inquiries could be made via email at customercare@ibedc.com. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Sallah: Minister urges Nigerians not to despair over current difficulties
By Martha Agas
Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, has urged Nigerians not to despair over the current difficulties in the country.
Audu made the call in his special message to felicitate with the Muslim Faithful as they celebrate the Eid-El-Kabir.
His message was issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Mrs Lizzy Okoji, on Sunday in Abuja.
He urged Nigerians and the Muslim Faithful to use the Sallah period to reflect on the sacrifices and acts of obedience of Prophet Ibrahim.
He said that the prophet trusted in Almighty Allah (SWT) even at his most trying time, and the rewards afterwards.
He urged Nigerians to do likewise as their sacrifices and the trials being experienced in the nation would soon yield positive results.
According to the minister, Nigerians will soon be ushered into the dividends of democracy, good governance, and a better life as designed by the robust policies and bold reform programmes of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He reminded Nigerians that the electioneering season was over, and it was time for nation-building and good governance, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious divides.
He added that the 25 years of uninterrupted democracy of Nigeria should not be taken for granted, as it has shown how formidable Nigeria can be as a nation.
“Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we must continue to stand,” he said.
The minister urged the Muslim Faithful to extend charity to their fellow Muslims and other Nigerians, who are not privileged, as stated in the teachings of peace and almsgiving of Prophet Mohammed (SAW).
He assured Nigerians of his commitment to delivering on his mandate of reviving the steel industry in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He said that the move was targeted at growing the economy to more than 1 trillion dollars by 2031, as well as creating millions of job opportunities for Nigerians.
“This is especially to the youths, thus making Nigeria a global investment destination, among other initiatives.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
MAA/YGA
Sen. Ted Nwoko addressing Anioma residents during an interactive session in Abuja on Sunday
Unity
By Deborah Coker
Abuja, June 15, 2024 (NAN), Sen. Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta), representing Delta North Senatorial District, held an interactive session with residents of the Anioma community on Sunday in Abuja.
Nwoko said he initiated the event to recognise his constituents in the FCT, build relationships, and seek their input to better address their needs and concerns.
He the objective of the interactive session included uniting all Anioma people in Abuja, and to encourage them to share information about budget placements, capacity-building initiatives, job opportunities, among others.
“First, it seeks to unite all Anioma people in Abuja and its environs under one umbrella and inform you about my duties in the senate and my responsibilities to you as your senator.
“Secondly it aims to encourage you to share information about budget placements, capacity-building initiatives, job opportunities, training programmes, and career development within your agencies and ministries so that I can facilitate access to these opportunities for our people,” he said.
He noted that the array of personalities present at the event signified a positive step towards realising his vision for the people of Anioma.
“You must know what we are doing in the National Assembly. The National Assembly is here to serve you.
“You need to understand my duties and the services I owe you. Whether it’s on jobs, health issues, or community matters, you have someone in the Federal Government to attend to your needs and concerns.
“How do you gain access to me or my office if you don’t know my willingness to serve you? I didn’t come to NASS just to hold the title of Senator; I know my duties and I am committed to them.
“Many of you hold key positions in various government agencies and ministries, and I seek your advice and partnership to serve our people effectively,” the lawmaker said.
Speaking on his bill for the creation of Anioma State, the senator stressed the importance of the creation of state over regional classification.
According to him, whether Anioma is South-South or South-East should not be the focus.
“What’s most important to discuss is that Anioma is poised to become a highly significant and viable state. We already have six out of nine local government areas producing oil and gas.
“In addition, Anioma boasts of numerous talented and important individuals. In spite of current challenges, Emefiele will continue to be a prominent figure in Anioma.
“We also have people like Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, and other notable personalities. We have all the talents we need to excel in all areas, be it sports or academics,” he said.
In his remarks, Chief Godfrey Odogwu, President General of the Asaba Development Union, Abuja branch, said the creation of Anioma State was long overdue.
He underscored the importance of this for every son and daughter of Anioma.
The high point of the event was a vote of confidence on Nwoko by the Anioma community in Abuja.
Mr Patrick Obi, Branch President of Ogwashi-Uku Development Association, leading the vote of confidence, said, “We have been assured that we have a Senator. Doors have never been this open for us.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Maiduguri, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, has joined other Muslim faithful to observe the Eid-el Kabir prayer in Maiduguri, the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN), reports.
Shettima, who spoke briefly after the prayers, prayed for peace and bumper harvest this cropping season.
“We urge Nigerians to pray for peace and prosperity in the land.
“We have to cultivate peace; there can never be development without peace.
“This is the farming season, we also need to pray for bumper harvest, ” Kashim said.
In his message, the Borno Acting Governor, Alhaji Umar Kadafur, also prayed for peaceful coexistence and the need to pray for the nation.
“May Allah accept our prayers and that of our people in the Holy land,” he said.
He thanked the people of Borno for their sustained support to the government, and assured them of quality leadership.
Kadafur also thanked the Vice President for coming home to identify with his people in Borno, and wished him a safe trip back to Abuja. (NAN)
