Category: Metro

L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab; Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Project Director of Arctic Infrastructure, Mr Lookman Oshodi; and Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Service and Water Resources, Mr Mahamood Adegbite; at the closing of the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit

Climate
By Oluwatope Lawanson
Lagos, June 13, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has
emphasised the need for increased and sustained climate financing and capacity building in tackling  effects of climate change.

Sanwo-Olu laid the emphasis  at the closing of a three-day 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit held on Thursday on Victoria Island.

The summit had the theme: “Accelerating Climate Finance and Championing Local Adaptation Initiatives”.

The governor was represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

He called for a collaborative approach to bridge climate  financing gaps and empower local communities to develop and implement adaptation strategies.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and equity as well as strengthening of policy frameworks and regulatory environments to support climate action.

According to him, it will pave the way for a more resilient, sustainable and just future for all.

Sanwo-Olu  urged governments, financial institutions and international organisations to join forces in the fight against climate change.

“Climate action must be inclusive, ensuring that marginalised and vulnerable groups are not left behind.

“Women, youths, indigenous people and other under-represented communities must have a voice in the decision-making processes that affect their lives and livelihoods,” he said.

The governor also said that capacity building and knowledge sharing was imperative so as to empower local communities with skills needed to develop and implement adaptation strategies.

He said that the skills involved not only technical training, but also fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

According to him, adaptation strategies must be tailored and implemented at the local level where climate change effects are felt most acutely.

“Let us accelerate climate financing, champion local adaptation initiatives and create a world that is more resilient, sustainable and just,” he said.

Earlier in his address of welcome, the state Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, said that the summit served as a call to action for all to take proactive measures in protecting  lives and property of Lagos residents.

Highlighting some challenges of climate change in the state, the commissioner said that the unique geography of the state surrounded by water, waste management, among others, presented both opportunities and challenges.

“Lagos, as a state, has its challenges.  It is a coastal city surrounded by water, such as the Atlantic Ocean, which means we have to be proactive in taking steps to protect it.

“We must use water to our advantage, same with the waste around us,” he added. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

LAW/OIF/IGO

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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Ijeoma Popoola

08033965737

Investors

By Angela Atabo

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) A former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has called on global investors to take advantage of the vast potentials in the Nigeria’s creative industry.

The former minister made the call on Thursday in Germany, at a forum tagged “Giessen Meets The World” organised by the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

A text of the former Minister’s presentation at the event was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in AAbuja.

Mohammed described the nation’s creative sector as “goldmine” and “fast-growing”, stressing its impressive growth trajectory and significant contributions to the nation’s economy.

According to him, besides huge employment creation, earnings, and entertainment, the creative industry is contributing immensely to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Mohammed, who is the Managing Partner of Bruit Costaud, a policy advisory firm, noted that Nigeria’s creative sector spans 24 diverse segments, including fashion, music, film, literature, visual arts, among others.

Citing a research from Jobberman, the former minister said the creative sector is Nigeria’s second-largest employer, with the potential to create an additional 2.7 million jobs by 2025.

He elaborated on the sector’s expansive value chain, which according to him, encompassed production, distribution, and marketing, thereby supporting diverse employment opportunities.

“The creative sector serves as a powerful engine for economic growth, contributing substantially to Nigeria’s GDP through the production and distribution of creative goods and services,” Mohammed said.

He emphasised how the industry’s value chain created numerous job opportunities, ranging from artists and performers to technicians, marketers, and administrative personnel.

Mohammed also spoke on the profound digital transformation within the industry as well as increasing prevalence of global collaborations and cross-cultural influences.

“The rise of online platforms, streaming services, and digital distribution channels has democratised content creation and distribution.

This is making Nollywood films, music, fashion shows, and art exhibitions accessible to a global audience.

“International collaborations in music, film productions, and fashion events have also elevated the industry’s global standing and expanded the global footprint of Nigerian content,” he noted.

Speaking further, the ex-minister cited state-of-the-art film studios, cutting-edge recording facilities, and digital art spaces as key developments that have enhanced production quality and fostered innovation.

He identified Nigeria’s youthful demography, with about 70 per cent of the population being young people, as a driving force behind the industry’s growth.

“The youth’s engagement with and consumption of creative content continue to drive the industry’s growth,” Mohammed said.

He pointed out that the sector’s viability and rapid growth are evident by high sales records, such as the 2023 success of the film
“The Tribe Called Judah,” which according to him, grossed over N1 billion in less than three months.

Mohammed attributed this success to supportive government policies and reforms, including grants, tax incentives, and the establishment of creative hubs that encouraged entrepreneurship and investment.

Highlighting the lucrative investment opportunities in the sector, Mohammed said, Public-Private Partnerships can address the industry’s infrastructure needs.

“Nollywood, the world’s second-largest film industry by output, presents opportunities in film production, distribution, and infrastructure development.

“With the globalisation of music consumption and digital platforms, the Nigerian music scene offers investment prospects in production, distribution, and live events.

“The Nigerian fashion industry is ripe for investment in design, manufacturing, retail, and global export, especially with the growing international focus on African fashion,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

ATAB/ROT

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Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Chief Amina Labinjo-Ajayi

Diaspora investment crucial for national development – Expert

Development

By Angela Atabo

Abuja, June 13, 2024 (NAN) The Chairman of Silicon Valley Nigeria Economic Developments, Chief Amina Labinjo-Ajayi, has called on the Federal Government to leverage diaspora investment and entrepreneurship for national development.

Labinjo-Ajayi, who is also a U.S.-based humanitarian expert, made the call during an online meeting with journalists to mark Nigeria`s 25^th Democracy Anniversary.

She said that it was high time the Nigerian government shifted attention from petroleum to other sectors, such as Compressed Natural Gas, entrepreneurship development, youths’ empowerment among others to develop the country.

“Nigeria is richly blessed in natural and human resources, we need to channel our focus and invest more in other sectors.

“Nobody talks about petrol again these days; attentions are being shifted from it because of the effects of climate change.

“The plan B now is compressed natural gas and as one of the CEOs of Silicon Valley, I can tell this for a fact.

“Let us capitalise on our natural and human resources, we have smart youths and first class brains that can drive this process,” she said.

Labinjo-Ajayi said that she had brokered over 19 billion dollars investment to Nigeria and had also signed partnership with some companies on compressed natural gas, mechanised farming among others as part of efforts to contribute to the nation`s development.

Labinjo-Ajayi said she had also approached the management of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), to work with corps members on some of the projects in Nigeria.

She, however, used the medium to call on the government to create market and promote entrepreneurship spirit among Nigerians, youths in particular to compete favourably with their counterparts in the global markets.

“I am currently working with the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, the Federal Housing Authority and the Federal Mortgage Bank to leverage diaspora investment for housing delivery. ”

Labinjo-Ajayi called on Nigerians all over the world to give support to the nation`s democracy, so as to achieve a better future Nigeria desired.

“Democracy is about the people, so citizens should continue to exercise their power through active participation and engagement.

“On this 25th anniversary of democracy; I urge you to have hope and be resilience as we are making progress in spite of the challenges. So let us continue to work together towards a brighter future.

“Democracy is a collective effort, it is a shared responsibility, so let us embrace active citizenship and hold leaders accountable,” she said.

Labinjo-Ajayi also stressed the need for inclusive growth and development across the country, adding that Nigeria is a country where everyone should have access to opportunities regardless of background or location. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

ATAB/MZM/AMM

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Edited by Okon Okon and Abiemwense Moru

CAN

By Philomina Attah
Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), says the country’s democracy has been tested by the fires of adversity but had remained steadfast because it is the best form of governance.

Its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, in a message to mark this year’s democracy day, emphasised the need for government to lead the country with integrity and put its citizens first.

“As we celebrate 25 years of uninterrupted democracy and the 31st anniversary of the widely acclaimed ‘freest and fairest’ presidential election of June 12, 1993, CAN congratulates the government and people of Nigeria.

“Our democracy has been tested by the fires of adversity, from the struggles of its early years to the present-day trials of insecurity, economic hardship and social injustice.

“Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our belief that democracy is the best form of government for our nation.

“We urge the government to prioritise the common good, address pressing issues and ensure that our democracy serves the people, not just the interests of a few,” he said.

Okoh emphasised the importance of integrity, transparency and accountability in governance, saying that leaders must recognise that power is a sacred trust and that they would be held accountable for their actions.

He also stressed the need for unity and inclusivity, recognising the value of Nigeria’s ethnic, religious and cultural differences.

“Let us work together to build a stronger, more just Nigeria, where everyone has a voice and equal opportunity.

“As people of faith, we believe that democracy is a gift from God, and we must steward it wisely.

“We pray for divine guidance and wisdom for our leaders, and we urge all Nigerians to participate actively in the democratic process.

“Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves, our children and generations yet unborn,” Okoh stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
APA/OIF/ETS

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Hunger eroding patriotism among Nigerians, says Cleric

Democracy
By Uchenna Eletuo
Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The General Overseer, Calvary Kingdom Church, Okokomaiko Lagos, Archbishop Joseph Ojo, says that hunger has eroded patriotism among many Nigerians.

Ojo, an Executive of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Wednesday.

He was reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast to mark this year’s Democracy Day celebration.

He said that “hungry Nigerians waited patiently to hear from the president, steps taken to ameliorate their sufferings.

“Nigerians expected the president’s message to dwell on measures taken by his government to crash prices of staple foods,” he said.

The cleric spoke against the backdrop of rising cost of food items in the market.

He said: “Hunger is eroding patriotism in the people.

“Nigerians at this point expect messages of hope that will become a reality in the shortest time.

“The address should have addressed the daily challenges facing the people, especially the soaring food prices, to give hope of a better tomorrow.

“That rice and gari will become cheaper, petrol price reduced.

“Those are what is uppermost in the minds of the suffering masses now,” the clergyman said.

He further said that the country was in dire need of stable power to boost production.

“The issue of electricity should be prioritised in the scheme of things to make the Democracy Day celebration worthwhile,” he said. (NAN)(wwwnannews.ng)

EUC/OIF/USO
Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Sam Oditah

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat (Middle), laying a wreath at the Tomb of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo (MKO) Abiola alongside other Lagos State officials, friends and family members of  MKO

Democracy
By Oluwatope Lawanson
Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has urged Nigerians to commit to the principles of democracy  to make it deep-rooted in the country.

Sanwo-Olu made the call at the 13th National Discourse of  the Coalition for a Better Nigeria.

The event held at the residence of the family of late Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of the 1993 Presidential Election, in Ikeja.

The event had the theme: “Converting the Pain of June 12 Election Annulment To Gain for Present Administration”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that June 12, 2024, marks 31 years of the annulment of the presidential election.

NAN also reports that Nigeria has had 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.

Sanwo-Olu  was represented at the occasion by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

He said the nation was blessed with democracy which must be jealously  protected.

The governor  said that democracy remained the best form of government, expressing optimism that it had come to stay in Nigeria.

According to him, the fear of God and love for the country must have helped to sustain democracy in the nation.

“We must cherish our democracy and be democratic in all we do. Democracy is not about force but conviction of ideas.

“It is not about forcing one’s views on others, but about debate. We must talk about it and must come together to agree about it,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu urged public commentators to speak with the fear of God, be patriotic, love the country and adhere to the tenets of democracy.

He said that these were also essential for good governance.

“It is also important for citizens to be patriotic and protect the integrity of the country in order not to destroy the legacy of our forefathers, who paid the ultimate price for democracy, particularly the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola.

“It is important to respect our past heroes especially those that are still living,” the governor added.

In his lecture titled “Impact of June 12 on the Democratic and Economic Development of Nigeria”, Mr Debo Adeniran said that Abiola was a pillar of strength and hope for Nigerians and other  Africans.

According to him, Abiola made  sacrifices for Nigerian’s freedom.

Adeniran described the late Abiola as a good man and philanthropist, who served humanity and had welfare agenda.

“This was what made Nigerians  to give him their votes to become the president as they believed he would change the economic situation of the country.

Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs Lola Abiola-Edowor, first daughter of the late Abiola, urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration to achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.

Abiola-Edewor expressed optimism that by the end of Tinubu’s tenure, all his laudable dreams for the nation would have been realised.

“Rome was not built in a day; therefore, l urge you all to be patient with him and keep hope alive,” she said.

Abiola-Edewor thanked the federal and Lagos State Government for their support.

“It is my prayer that God will help President Tinubu  to steer the ship of the country successfully,” she said.

NAN reports that the highpoint of the event was laying of a wreath at the graveside of the late Abiola.

The wreath was laid by Hamzat.

The event brought together government functionaries, Abiola Family members, civil society groups and others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

LAW/EOB/IGO

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Edited by Edith Bolokor/Ijeoma Popoola

Democracy Day: Labour insists on N250, 000 minimum wage
Wage
By Joan Nwagwu
Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says its demand for the new National Minimum Wage  remains N250,000.
The Acting President of NLC, Mr Adewale Adeyanju, said this in a statement, while reacting to President Bola Tinubu Democracy Day speech on Wednesday, in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Federal Government  had offered N62, 000 as the new national minimum wage, at the end of the tripartite committee meeting, involving the Organised Private Sector (OPS) .
According to him, the union appreciates the President’s commitment to those fine democratic ideals which allowed the work of the Tripartite National Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee to proceed unhindered despite some hiccups.
“Our demand still remains N250,000 only and we have not been given any compelling reasons to change this position which we consider a great concession by Nigerian workers during the tripartite negotiation process.
“We are, therefore, surprised at the submission of Mr President over a supposed agreement.
“We believe that he may have been misled into believing that there was an agreement with the NLC and TUC.
“There was none and it is important that we let the President, Nigerians and other national stakeholders understand this immediately to avoid a mix up in the ongoing conversation around the national minimum wage,” he said.
Adeyanju also noted that the union had not seen a copy of the document submitted to Mr President and it would not accept any doctored document.
He, however, reaffirmed the union’s belief that the president on whose table the Tripartite Committee’s report presently resides would prepare an Executive Bill which content would reflect the true demand of Nigerian workers.
“We think that this is an opportunity for him to demonstrate his love for Nigerian workers and masses.
“That is by shunning the pieces of advice that may be coming from those whose intentions are continuously focused on hurting the poor and struggling workers of Nigeria.
“Mr President should not allow these individuals and groups to sabotage his promise of lifting Nigerian workers out of poverty,” he said.
According to him, the president’s advisers obviously did not tell him the truth that the leaders of the trade unions were intimidated and harassed.
“It is, therefore, important that Mr President understands that we were threatened severally by his operatives perhaps without his consent.
“Series of media propaganda calculated to intimidate and harass us were, and, are still being waged against the trade unions by senior officials of this government.
“Fully armed soldiers surrounded us while we were in a negotiation with the government,” he alleged.
He added the NLC remained assured that the president’s democratic credentials will come to the fore in favour of Nigerian workers and masses.
He also noted that NLC never agreed on a five-year duration of the minimum wage Act though acknowledged that the president mentioned five years or less.
According to Adeyanju, the union also agreed that inflation should be pegged at a level for certain amount to be agreed as minimum wage. This is to bring clarity to what the report should contain.
“Once again, we reiterate that it will be extremely difficult for Nigerian workers to accept any national minimum wage figure that approximates to a starvation wage.
“We cannot be working and yet remain in abject poverty.
“We seek justice, equity and fairness for all Nigerians and this we hope would also drive the actions of Mr. President who promised a Living Wage to Nigerian workers.
“This is an opportunity to show that he listens to Nigerians as he promised,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
JAN/IAA
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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola