Award
By Olajide Idowu
Osogbo, June 18, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun has bagged the fellowship award of a socio-cultural group, Ede Unique Club of Nigeria, in recognition of the various infrastructural development projects embarked upon since his assumption of office.
Spokesperson for the organisation, Prince Wale Ojetimi, said in a statement on Tuesday in Osogbo that the investiture of the fellowship award would hold in Ede on Thursday, as part of the organisation’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
Ojetimi said that the award was a testimonial to Adeleke’s personal achievements and his progeny’s remarkable contributions to the socio-economic and political development of Osun and Nigeria at large.
He said that the governor would also perform the inauguration of the N5.5 million solar-powered facility donated by the club to the State Hospital in Ede.
The spokesperson said that the solar-powered facility was part of the organisation’s corporate social responsibility component of its 40th anniversary.
He said that the event, to be presided over by the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal, will feature an anniversary lecture to be delivered by a former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Prof. Mojeed Alabi.
According to him, among the prominent individuals to receive special recognition awards at the event is a retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Wale Abass.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abass recently retired from Nigeria Police Force (NPF) as AIG after 35 years of service to the country.
NAN also reports that the club is a non-partisan, socio-cultural organisation of leaders in business, academia, the professions and public service who have excelled in their various chosen fields and are contributing positively to the society, both in Nigeria and the Diaspora.
The organisation, established in 1983, engages in human capital and social development, focusing particularly on development of young people. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
ID/VE/WAS
Edited by Victor Adeoti and ‘Wale Sadeeq
Blog
Adeleke bags fellowship award on infrastructure devt.
NCAA praises Keyamo’s contributions toward Nigeria’s ICAO audit rating
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
Nigeria spends $600m annually on palm oil importation
Nigeria spends $600m annually on palm oil importation
Importation
By Felicia Imohimi
Abuja, June 18, 2024(NAN)The National Palm Produce Association of Nigeria (NPPAN), says Nigeria spends 600 million dollars on palm oil importation annually.
Mr Alphonsus Inyang, National President of the association, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.
He described the expenses as unhealthy for national development.
Inyang said the money could be saved and injected into the economy if the palm oil sub-sector was given due attention by successive governments.
The president regretted that Nigeria, which was self sufficient in palm oil production in time past, now spends huge amount to import same product.
Inyang recalled that in the 60s, Nigeria was number one in palm oil production and exportation globally, controlling over 60 per cent of world palm oil.
He said that the reverse was the case at the moment as over 50 per cent of what we consume is imported.
“At the moment, the country occupies fifth position in the league of palm oil producing countries after Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Colombia.
“Nigeria may even lose the position to smaller countries who are investing heavily in the sector.
“Indonesia occupies the first position, producing 50 million metric tons, Malaysia second with 19 million metric tons, Thailand 3.28 million and Colombia 1.9 million metric tons,” he said.
The president attributed the challenge to the negelect of the sector by successive governments.
Inyang said that based on the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Nigeria currently occupies fifth position in the league of palm oil producing countries with 1.5 per cent or 1.4 million metric tons of the world’s total output.
“Nigeria was overthrown as the world’s largest palm oil producer and exporter by Malaysia and Indonesia in 1966.
“Currently, Nigeria is the largest consumer of the product in the continent, consuming approximately three million metric tons yearly.
“Domestic production stands at less than 1.4 million metric tons, leaving a deficit of over 1.6 million metric tones,’’ he said.
Inyang urged government, specifically the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, to support NPPAN members with seedlings to develop 250,000 hectares per year.
“Our members can plant up to 250,000 hectares per year through the association’s National Oil Palm Strategy Development Plan; all we want are inputs.
“Government does not need to give and develop land for us, we need seedlings, fertilisers, logistics and implements to close this gab within four years.
“We will also create new millionaires in 28 states of the federation,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
FUA/DE/JPE
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Ex-Thai PM faces defamation of monarch charge
Ex-Thai PM faces defamation of monarch charge
Charge
Bangkok, June 18, 2024 (dpa/NAN) Former Thai Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, has been charged with defaming the monarch, the Bangkok Post reported on Tuesday, citing the attorney-general’s official spokesman.Shinawatra, 74, appeared in a Bangkok court and was released on bail of 500,000 baht (13,600 dollars), the report said.
Thaksin was accused of defaming the monarch, known as lèse-majesté under the Thai criminal code, during a 2015 interview in South Korea.
Thai prosecutors took up the case again last year after he returned from 15 years in exile.
He faced a sentence of up to 15 years in prison in a country where lèse-majesté was regarded as a serious offence.
Thaksin, Prime Minister between 2001 and 2006, will also have to answer computer crime charges related to inputting information into a computer system seen as a threat to national security.
The Bangkok Post reported.
He has denied all charges.
The billionaire prime minister was ousted in the coup in 2006.
He was subsequently charged with corruption and abuse of power, as well as failing to respect the monarchy.
He fled the country in 2008 to avoid a prison sentence.
Thaksin was arrested and tried on his return to Thailand in 2023.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn cut his sentence to one year from the eight imposed by the court, and he was released in February.
Thailand permits prisoners older than 70 to apply for parole or a royal pardon. (dpa/NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
COO/SH
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Edited by Cecilia Odey/Sadiya HamzaOdodo hails ex-governor Bello’s exemplary leadership, extraordinary vision
Ododo hails ex-governor Bello’s exemplary leadership, extraordinary vision
Felicitation
By Thompson Yamput
Lokoja, June 18, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Usman Ododo of Kogi has commended the former governor Yahaya Bello for his exemplary leadership and extraordinary vision that led to the transformation of the state.
This is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lokoja by Ododo’s Special Adviser on Media, Ismaila Isah, on Bello a 46th birthday.
Ododo also described Bello as quintessential leader of repute as he felicitates with him on the occasion of his 49th Birthday Anniversary.
According to him, Bello is a quintessential leader of men and women and a pathfinder who lifted children of the less privileged to prominence and led the state to a prosperous pedestal in the eight years of his administration in the
“On the occasion of the 49th birthday of my leader and mentor,
”I am filled with gratitude for the courage you exemplified, the sacrifices you made for us to be where we are today and the legacies you bequeathed on our state and our people.
“I wish you many more years in good health and prosperity as you will be surrounded by your children and the children of many people whose lives you have transformed as you celebrate the anniversary of your birthday”, he said.
The governor prayed to God to protect the life of the former governor, wishing him a fulfilled life out of office. ,(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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edited by Sadiya HamzaHunger: APC diaspora chieftain tasks S/West governors on investments in farming
Engr. Bola Babarinde Hunger: APC diaspora chieftain tasks S/West governors on investments in farming
By Adeyemi Adeleye
Lagos, June 18, 2024 (NAN) Mr Bola Babarinde, a former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, says South-West governors must engage in strategic investments, leveraging technology and ensure coordinated effort among stakeholders to enhance food security.Babarinde, also the Deputy Director of the Sanwo-Olu/Hamzat Campaign Council, Diaspora Directorate in 2023 governorship election, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.
Calling for action among governors in the region, Babarinde said that achieving food security in the South-West should be paramount among leaders in the region.
“The South-West region of Nigeria has become excessively dependent on other zones for its food supply, a situation that demands urgent attention and strategic intervention.
“With vast arable lands and a favourable climate, the region has the potential to not only achieve self-sufficiency but also become a significant player in agricultural exports.
“Drawing inspiration from countries like Israel and the Netherlands, which have leveraged technology to maximize yields from limited arable lands, the South-West can employ modern farming techniques to enhance productivity.
“By adopting advanced agricultural technologies, the region can improve the quality and quantity of its produce, ensuring food security and generating foreign exchange through exports,” he said.
The APC chieftain noted that despite the potential, the focus of South-West governors remained fixated on federal allocations.
According to him, this oversight neglects the substantial revenue that could be generated internally from the agricultural sector.
He said that historically, the Western region thrived on agro-exports, particularly cash crops.
“Today, however, it (South-West) struggles to meet basic food production needs, a situation that poses an existential threat to regional security.
“To address this crisis, the Dawn Commission and the six South-West states, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu must urgently formulate and implement a comprehensive agricultural development plan.
“This plan should leverage Lagos’s financial capabilities and the abundant arable lands in neighbouring states.
“Massive investment in agriculture can meet the growing food demand in urban centers, particularly Lagos, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth,“ Babarinde said.
He added that the Western region once boasted numerous ranching and dairy production settlements.
According to him, reviving these practices can tap into the vast market for food products, ensuring a steady supply to the urban populace.
Babarinde noted that despite the availability of land and labour, achieving self-sufficiency in food production remained elusive.
He linked this to a significant lapse in governance and resource management.
He said that by prioritising agriculture, the region could ensure its food security, generate significant revenue and create a sustainable economic future. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
AYO/IKU
Edited by Tayo IkujuniKogi govt. bans traditional procession in Koton Kafe
Kogi govt. bans traditional procession in Koton Kafe
Ban
By Thompson Yamput
Lokoja, June 18, 2024 (NAN) The Kogi Government has banned Traditional procession in Koton Kafe in Kogi Local Government Area (LGA) of the state for security reasons.
The Commissioner for Information, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, announced the ban in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lokoja.
Fanwo said that security reports indicated that all was not well in Koton Kafe community, following alleged plans by some people to forment trouble in the area.
He said that the ban was aimed at maintaining peace in Koton karfe and its environs in Kogi Local Government Area (LGA)
“The proactive ban is aimed at curbing plans by some elements in the area to disturb the peace of the ancient town.
“Gov. Usman Ododo has reiterated his administration’s commitment to peaceful co-existence among all Koton karfe people.
“He will always leave his doors open to listen to complaints and grievances rather than resort to violence, ” he said .
The commissioner urged all concerned to strictly abide by the ban, warning that violators would be treated as enemies of peace and the state.
He said that the decision by the government was aimed at protecting the rights of the Koton karfe people and all citizens.
Fanwo urged law enforcement agents to enforce the ban in accordance with the laws of the land.
According to him, Koton karfe people should be committed to peace and harmony as government was prepared to protect them from violence.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that for mer Gov. Yahaya Bello on Jan. 8, removed Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isah-Koto as the Ohimege-Igu Koton-Karfe.
Isah-Koto was also the Chairman, Lokoja/ Kogi Local Governement Area traditional council.
NAN reports that Isah-Koto, who was removed and deposed to Rijau Local Government Area of Niger, was replaced with Alhaji Saidu Akawu-Salihu. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Joseph Edeh
Expert seeks mentorship, emotional support for boys
Expert seeks mentorship, emotional support for boys
Support
By Joan Odafe
Lagos, June 18, 2024 (NAN) A male -child advocate, Mr Aniekeme Finbarr, says mentoring boys and giving them emotional support will help shape their behaviours and instil positive values in them.Finbarr said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) interview on Tuesday.
He said that it was unfortunate that boys were not properly educated about the many dangers in the society.
According to him, these societal dangers include substance abuse, gang violence, cultism and negative influences .
“Who does the boy child run to?
“The boy-child is almost bereft of someone he can talk to.
“He is afraid of the parents, he is scared of the teachers, he is scared of older people around him.
“That is why we have a lot of boys who are not properly informed and our streets have been overtaken by young boys in primary, secondary schools and tertiary institutions, who are into drugs,” he said.
Finbarr, who is also the Special Assistant to Akwa-Ibom on Social Orientation, said there was need for action to adequately prepare boys for positive living.
He said boys should have positive role models ,parental guidance ,awareness and other things that could help them in the society, like the girl-child.
According to him ,the society stands the risk of losing well-groomed and independent girls to irresponsible men later in life,if the well-being of the boy-child is overlooked.
Finbarr said that the lack of positive role models for young boys had left them at the mercy of pop culture and celebrities with unethical behaviours.
While saying most societal vices were carried out by young men , Finbarr urged parents and guardians to learn to support the boy-child emotionally and properly guide them to be responsible citizens, later in life.
Finbarr further urged governments ,families and non-governmental organisations to also tailor their activities toward supporting boys.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
JOJO/BOLA/BHB
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Edited by Bola Akingbehin/Buhari Bolaji8 dead in hospital fire in Iran
8 dead in hospital fire in Iran
Fire
Tehran, June 18, 2024 (dpa/NAN) Eight people have died due to fire outbreak in a hospital in Iran.The fire broke out in a hospital in the city of Rasht near the Caspian Sea in the north of the country, the state news agency IRNA reported on Tuesday.
According to initial findings, the dead were patients in an intensive care unit.
Dozens of firefighters were deployed, as the head of the emergency services in the city said in an interview with state television.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated.
Around 140 patients were rescued, the report said.
There were concerns that there could be more victims.(dpa/NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
COO/IKU
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Edited by Cecilia Odey/Tayo IkujuniNSCDC vows to arrest attackers of its headquarters in Nasarawa
NSCDC vows to arrest attackers of its headquarters in Lafia
Investigation
By Sunday John
Lafia, June 18, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Nasarawa, says it has commenced investigation to unravel those behind the attack on its headquarters in Lafia.
Mr Jerry Victor, the NSCDC Public Relations Officer in the state said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lafia.
NAN recalls that unspecified number of suspected bandits attacked the NSCDC Lafia office in the early hours of June 17, but were repelled by the personnel of the command.
Victor said that the state commandant of the corps, Ismaila Abdullahi, had directed the Intelligent unit to get to the root of the attack with a view of apprehending the attackers, collaborators and sponsors.
He said that those behind the attack would not escape justice as the command would go after them, no matter their status in the country.
Victor said that preliminary investigation revealed that the bandits wanted to set some of their members at their custody free.
“They came in large numbers with iron rods and attempted to break some part of the command’s fence to gain entry into the facility.
“Our personnel swiftly responded by opening fire on the hoodlums, whose mission was to release some high-profile suspected criminals including informants of kidnappers in our custody,” he said.
Victor said that the command had beefed up surveillance in and around their office to forestall future occurrence.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng).
SDJ/VE/JPE
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Edited by Victor Adeoti/Joseph Edeh
