Category: Metro

Distribution

by Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja, June 19, 2024 (NAN) The Helpline Social Support Initiative, an NGO, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Nigeria shared meat during the Eid el-Kabir to women, vulnerable groups and persons living with disabilities in the FCT.

Dr Jumai Ahmadu, Founder of the initiative, who made this known on Wednesday, thanked the UAE Embassy for their kindness and dedication to making a positive impact in the FCT.

Ahmadu said that the gesture demonstrates the embassy’s commitment to community support through the spreading of joy and compassion to those in need.

She also commended the embassy for identifying with the initiative, saying ” this is the third year it is supporting the needy in Abuja and its environs with this gesture.”

” Their generous contribution of meat donations benefited our women and individuals living with disabilities, spreading joy and compassion to those in need.

” This marks the third consecutive year of their support, which has made a significant difference in the lives of our beneficiaries, including internally displaced persons (IDPs).

” We are grateful for their kindness and dedication to making a positive impact in our community.

” Thank you to the UAE Embassy for their unwavering support and to our team for their tireless efforts in serving our community.”

She noted that Eid el Kabir was an opportunity and occasion to put smiles on the faces of the less privileged especially women.

Ahmadu, therefore called on other relevant organisations at all levels to go beyond “funfairs that characterised every festivities and use such occasions to empower the vulnerable in the society. (NAN)

SSI/SH

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

Meat

By Philip Yatai

Abuja, June 18, 2024 (NAN) The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD), in collaboration with Near Foundation, has distributed meat to 150 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Abuja, to celebrate Eid-el Kabir.

Acting Director-General of FEMD, Mrs Florence Wenegieme, explained during the distribution exercise in Abuja on Tuesday, that the support was part of measures to leave no one behind.

Wenegieme said that the distribution of the meat would give the IDPs a sense of belonging, saying, “It is not everybody that can afford a ram or even a chicken.”

The acting D-G urged other organisations to emulate the good will of Near Foundation to give vulnerable people hope in life.

“Beyond reaching out to vulnerable people, FEMD in partnership with other organisations will equally build the capacity of IDPs in different skills for self-reliance.

“We pray that Near Foundation and other NGOs we are collaborating with will design different programmes for the poor and vulnerable in the FCT.

“Helping the less privileged people in our midst will give them hope,” she said.

The Programme Manager of Near Foundation, Mr Abdulmalik Bulakos, said that the partnership with FEMD was to strengthen humanitarian support for distressed people.

Bulakos said that the strategic partnership with FEMD helped the foundation in identifying the vulnerable people in FCT, particularly IDPs.

He explained that humanitarian aid was one of the intervention areas of the foundation, to reach out to poor and vulnerable people in communities, particularly with the current economic hardship in the country.

On the meat package, the programme manager said that each IDP would receive four kilogrammes of meat to celebrate Eid-el Kabir.

He said that so far, the foundation has slaughtered over 1,200 cows and distributed meat packages to more than 50,000 vulnerable residents of FCT.

“This part of the tradition of Near Foundation. It is an annual event and still ongoing, as evident with distribution of meat packages to more than 150 IDPs in Abuja,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Mohammed Abdulrahman, Director, Relief and Rehabilitation, FEMD, described the gesture and life changing.

“This is five years now that they have been consistently doing this. Every salah, the foundation touches the lives of vulnerable people,” Abdulrahman said.

One of the IDPs in Kabusa, Mr Yahaya Hassan, said he could not afford meat for the Eid-el Kabir celebration and thanked FEMD and Near Foundation for supporting him with meat to celebrate salah.

Similarly, Mrs Halita Joseph, an IDP in Yimutu IDP Camp, equally thanked the foundation and FEMD for remembering IDPs every year during salah. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

FDY/AMM

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NCAA praises Keyamo’s contributions toward Nigeria’s ICAO audit rating

Rating

Lagos, June 18, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development,  Mr Festus Keyamo’s contributions to Nigeria’s 71.04 per cent audit rating by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Mr Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of NCAA, made the commendation before journalists on Tuesday in Lagos.

Achimugu said that Nigeria scored 71.04 per cent in the ICAO-conducted Universal Security Audit Programme-Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA).

He said that Keyamo (SAN) and the Acting Director-General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, played huge roles during the recently-concluded ICAO’s USAP-CMA in the country’s aviation industry.

He said that Keyamo and Najomo were pivoted to the ICAO’s rating due to their leadership skills and mobilisation of human  and material resources to ensure that all gaps were closed.

The NCAA spokesman described as mischievous, comments in some quarters that the minister and Najomo were responsible for  alleged poor ratings Nigeria had.

“It is ironic that the writer blames the ‘failure’ of the security audit on the honourable minister (meaning that the minister should have intervened and done whatever was necessary to score higher).

“At the same time, the writer  blames the minister for “intervening” in security and safety issues. He needs to decide if he wants the minister to be involved or not,” he said.

Achimugu said that both Keyamo and Najomo came into office months ago and swang into action immediately to improve  infrastructure and workers’ remuneration.

“Six months ago, we met a dilapidated industry with poor infrastructure. The security and safety issues did not start in the last six months.

“Had it not been for the tireless efforts of the honourable minister and the D-G, NCAA, what we met on the ground would not have scored 30% in the audit.

“Going by what was on ground when Keyamo and Najomo assumed office, the current score is a substantially good showing, a miracle if I must say.

“The narrative being pushed out is just a part of the larger strategy to push out Keyamo and Najomo from office. It is the handwork of paid mercenaries,” he said.

According to Achimugu, ICAO auditors praised Nigeria’s performance during their final briefing at the NCAA and  mentioned that they  had complained about an absent infinfrastructure.

According to him, the auditors eventually  said that they were pleasantly surprised that the infrastructure  was made available the following day.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ICAO had in March conducted the USAP-CMA for the Abuja and Lagos airports. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

ITM/IGO

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Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Tinubu departs Lagos for South Africa

Departure

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

Lagos, June 18, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday departed Lagos at 11.06 a.m. for Pretoria.

Need

By Philomina Attah

Abuja, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Metropolitan and Archbishop of Abuja Methodist Church, His Grace, Most Rev’d Michael Akinwale, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to address the economic hardships facing Nigerians.

The Cleric made the appeal during the 2024 Men’s ‘Work-Week/Father’s Day Thanksgiving Service at the Methodist Cathedral of Unity, Wuse, Abuja on Sunday.

The Archbishop called on Tinubu to take decisive actiona to address the hardship, stressing, a lot of Nigerians were suffering.

“A lot of homes are bleeding at this time. The government should do everything they can to cushion the effect of this battered economy,” he implored.

He highlighted the house high costs of living, which, according to him, has placed basic necessities beyond the reach of the common man.

“This is part of our Divine responsibilities as men. But the truth is that we know that we are equally being challenged by the economy.

“One thing we need to understand is that God is our provider. He is the one who has the ability to provide for us.

“As long as we are resolutely determined as a father to meet up our responsibility, God will always make a way for us.

“To our president, I want him to understand that a lot of home is bleeding at this time.

“The commoners are really complaining. The government should block every conduit pipe where our resources are being drained at the expense of the masses,” he said.

Speaking on the theme “Arise and Build,” the Clergy emphasised the critical role of fathers in the home and the nation.”

“President Tinubu’s led government should do everything they can to cushion the effects of this battered economy. It is becoming very difficult to maintain the family, now, because almost everything has skyrocketed.

“It is far beyond the reach of the common man. As the father of the nation, we want to use this Father’s Day to appeal to the President  passionately, to  address the challenges.

“We understand that, the administration is trying entrench the stability if the economy, but the effect is really telling on the masses,” he said.

Quoting from the Holy Book of Colossians 3:19, the Cleric urged men to love and provide for their families,notwithstanding the economic pressures.

“God is our provider. As long as we are resolutely determined as fathers to meet our responsibilities, God will always make a way for us,” he said.

Also speaking, the President, Men’s Fellowship, in the Church, Mr Kayode Beckleg, echoed the same sentiments as the Clergy.

“Truly, the country is passing through tough times, but we should all realise that, it is only by the Grace of God that we are alive,” he said.

Beckleg encouraged men to turn to God, remain hopeful, and not abandon their families.  (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

APA/ROT
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Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Unity

By Esenvosa Izah

Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Lagos State Chapter, has urged residents to demonstrate resilience and empathy, while recognising their strength lies in unity.

The state Chairman, Mr Gbenga Ekundayo, said this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos, while felicitating with Muslim faithful in celebration of the Eid-el Kabir.

Ekundayo said the festivity was a reminder of the enduring spirit of sacrifice, love, unity and togetherness that Sallah embodied

According to him, it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and the reaffirmation of the people’s shared values.

‘’At this critical stage in our history as a people, only the true spirit of Lagos, built on resilience, the never-say-die attitude and our collective efforts are what we need to navigate these difficult times.

‘’By coming together and supporting one another, we can overcome the obstacles before us and build a more prosperous and harmonious society, ‘’ he said.

The chairman urged the political leaders to lead by example, show dedication to the welfare of the people and commit to actions that promote equity and justice.

He said, ‘’It is through their leadership and our collective efforts that we can address the pressing issues facing our people and pave the way for a brighter future.‘’

Earlier in his statement, the National President, TUC, Mr Festus Osifo, said the union would continue to work tirelessly to improve the lives of Nigerian workers and their families, using every means within its rights.

Osifo said that the significance of Sallah was in its reminder of the union’s commitment to its beliefs, values, and principles.

‘’Just as Prophet Ibrahim demonstrated unwavering faith, we too must remain steadfast and courageous in our pursuit of workers’ rights, decent work, social justice, and a better Nigeria.

‘’This is particularly important at this time when we are faced with overwhelming economic and social challenges as a nation,‘’ he said. (NAN)
EEI/SOA
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Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

Eid-el-Kabir:  Carnival on major streets unites Nigerians on Lagos Island

Unity

By Uchenna Eletuo

Lagos, June 16, 2024 (NAN) Eid-el Kabir celebration on Sunday united Nigerians on some major streets on Lagos Island  irrespective of their ethic, religious and political leanings.

Residents of  the streets ate, played and danced together   to commemorate the Muslim festival as families mounted beautiful canopies and set tables of assorted foods and drinks and entertained guests.

The imposing canopies covered the length and breath of streets such as Glover, Bamgbose, Joseph and Campos.

Hired local musicians entertained hosts and guests with  tunes that got many dancing and gifting money to  the singers and  drummers in appreciation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the annual celebration attracted  home, some ‘Lagos Islanders’ residing abroad.

The feast began after the symbolic slaughting of rams at  prayer grounds.

A cleric, Alhaji Agunbiade Lasis, said at the event that the feast signified sacrifice, obeisance to God and unity of purpose.

Lasis, who moved from house-to-house to offer prayers before ram slaughering, said that  Lagos Island residents always looked forward to the festival to express love and togetherness.

A youth leader, Mr Demeji Ojukutu, said: “Islanders are lovers of celebration.

“We welcome all and sundry in our fold with open arms as you can see here.

“If you are not told, you cannot differentiate the natives from visitors, as many of the guests wear same attire with the hosts.

“Foods, drinks and gift items are given to people freely. We are happy to see people come  and celebrate with us. That is the beauty of the day.”

Mr Etop Bassey, an Ibadan-based printer, said that he was a guest of his friend and business partner, Mr Taofeek Olagoke.

Bassey said that the event enabled him to make  more friends.

Chief Emeka Nnaji and his wife, Beta, guests of Alhaji Tunde Akainni, said that the event had no social boundary.

“Alhaji Akainni and I have been together for year; so, he can’t be doing such a big feast without my respecting him with my presence,” he said.

Earlier at the Ojo Army Cantonment Prayer Ground, Imam Ibrahim Ishaq, in his sermon, preached love, peace and prayer for  Nigeria’s leaders.

Ishaq, a Lieutenant in the army, said Eid-el Kabir signified  divine exchange of a human sacrifice for a ram.

According to him,  it entails obidience, sacrifice and trust in God.

“The ram meat is to be divided into three by faithful:  one for the household, one for  neighbours and one to be shared to the needy around  as an act of love,” he said.

NAN reports that Muslims worldwide celebrated the 2024 Eid-el Kabir on Sunday.  (NAN)

EUC/IGO

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Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Find solution to out-of-school children crisis—Expert tells govts

Children

By Angela Atabo

Abuja, June 16,2024 (NAN) SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, a child-centered international organisation, has advocated urgent need to find solutions to barriers that keep millions of Nigerian children out of school.

The National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria, Mr Eghosa Erhumwunse, made the call during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday in Abuja.

Erhumwunse said an urgent collective effort was required to ensure that every Nigerian child had access to quality education in the safest environment.

He said the call was imperative as the world celebrates the International Day of the African Child with the theme “Education for All: The Time is Now.”

“There is a dire need to re-evaluate the concerns of education and the growing number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

“According to a recent report from UNICEF, Nigeria has the highest number of out-of-school children in the world, with about 18.4 million children out of school in Nigeria.

“What is the fate of the Nigerian child if 1 in 3 Nigerian children is out of school and 12.4 million children have never seen the inside of a classroom”, he said.

The director further said that 5.9 million children leave school earlier than the stipulated graduation time.

He stressed that Nigeria accounts for 15 per cent of the global total of out-of-school children according to a 2022 UNICEF report.

Erhumwunse  listed the barriers as conflict and insecurity, vulnerability and scarce resources, cultural and gender norms, effects of climate change, limited infrastructure, and accessibility challenges.

“Education is not just about knowledge acquisition; it is a fundamental right and a catalyst for breaking the cycle of poverty as seen in many other countries.

“Nigeria, as a country, must double its efforts in tackling the issues of out-of-school children in society, especially in rural communities”, he said.

Erhumwunse said that SOS Children’s Villages prioritise the education needs of children through numerous programmes.

The SOS Children’s Villages director in Nigeria therefore urged governments to increase reinvestment in actionable policies and implementations that would take children off the streets.

He said that families’ economic capacities needed to be strengthened to meet the education and other needs of their young ones.

Erhumwunse said all hands must be on deck to ensure safe and peaceful atmosphere in schools through full implementation of the Safe School Declaration across states and communities.

He also said that communities and relevant stakeholders should create awareness on the importance of education for children.

He also emphasised the need to implement children’s right to education as contained in the Child Rights Act.

“Providing alternative care for children in emergencies reduces the number of out-of-school children.

“This method provides psychosocial and educational support for children who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care.

“It ensures that they grow in a loving environment fit and mentally ready for school and the society”, he said

Erhumwunse also urged policymakers, educators, civil society, and individuals to renew their dedication to creating conducive environment for children to dream and aspire regardless of their circumstances.

He said such environments would empower future generations to build a brighter and more equitable world. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

ATAB / IEI /KUA

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Edited by Ijendu Iheaka/Uche Anunne