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  • We must embrace new value system to make progress – Tinubu

    President Bola Tinubu with the delegation of the National Assembly led by President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, on Monday evening in Lagos.

    Progress
    By Salif Atojoko
    Abuja, June 18, 2024 (NAN) President Bola Tinubu says it is imperative for Nigerians to have a change of value system for the nation to make progress.
    The President said this in Lagos when he received a delegation from the National Assembly who came to felicitate with him on the occasion of Eid-el Kabir on Monday evening.
    The delegation, led by the President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, included the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Jibrin Barau and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, among others.
    “Good economics at a harsh time is the challenge that we must face. As I said in my speech, no matter how difficult it is and how challenging it can be, I will not turn my back on Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
    He challenged citizens to have a change of mindset about Nigeria if the nation is to overcome its current challenges.
    “The need (for some citizens) to change the rent-seeking mindset and become more productive to the economy is a challenge. The need to stop smuggling and all economic sabotage.
    “Why should we have people removing rail tracks and all that, stealing electric cables and sabotaging the economy?
    “We must embrace the campaign to change our value system. We must tell our people that the challenge we face is for all of us to change our mindset about our country,” Tinubu said.
    The President commended the leadership of the National Assembly for the support extended to his administration, which had resulted in some of the important developments recorded by his administration.
    “It is great pride for me to have the best of partners in the National Assembly. We have to drill down and be all-inclusive in our bid to satisfy our people.
    “It is daunting, but we cannot run away from the fact that this country must survive the hardship,” he stated.
    The President acknowledged the challenges and the task ahead, assuring the nation of his unwavering determination to turn things around.
    “Yes, there is poverty; there is suffering in the land. We are not the only people facing such, but we must face our challenges. We must find a way to eliminate banditry and terrorism so that farmers can bring out food from the farmland.
    “If you do not have good roads to bring the food to the population, even if you grow the food and you are losing 60-70 per cent to damages, you will pay the price,” said Tinubu.
    Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Akpabio said he came with the leadership of the National Assembly to pay homage and felicitate with the President on the occasion of Eid-el Kabir.
    Akpabio added that the visit was to thank the President for the purposeful leadership in the first year of his administration.
    On what Nigerians should expect from the legislature in the days ahead, Akpabio said: “Looking forward, the National Assembly will tinker with some existing legislations to further improve on the nation’s ease of doing business.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    SA/JNC
    =======
    Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

  • Police announce capture of “notorious terrorist” in Yobe

    Terrorist

    By Ahmed Abba

    Damaturu, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The  Police Command in Yobe announced on Monday it had captured Haruna Mohammed, 40, who is believed to be a leader of a “notorious terrorist gang”.

    Mr Dungus Abdulkarim, the command’s spokesperson, told newsmen in Damaturu that the suspect was apprehended by the State Intelligent Department (SID).

    “He has been involved in terrorising towns, villages and neighbouring states through menacing phone calls, demanding money and valuables from victims.

    “The command has been on the trail of Mohammed for his criminal activities.

    “A victim from Siminti village reported that Mohammed demanded N3 million and threatened to kill him and his family.

    “In an intensive intelligent operation on June 16, detectives from the SID arrested Mohammed at Nangillam, a village in Tarmuwa Local Government Area.

    “The suspect has confessed to the crime and even named other members of the syndicate who are currently being trailed,” he said.

    Abdulkarim advised communities to promptly report security breaches in their areas and reaffirmed the command’s readiness to stamp out criminal tendencies in Yobe. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    AIA/ISHO/ETS

    =============

    Edited by Yinusa Ishola and Ephraims Sheyin

  • Extreme heat: Nigeria loses pilgrim

    Heat

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia), June 17, 2024 (NAN) A Nigerian pilgrim, who was on his way to Jamrate to perform the ritual of throwing stones, has collapsed and eventually died due to heatstroke.

    Head of Nigeria’s Medical Team for the 2024 Hajj, Dr Abubakar Adamu, confirmed this in an interview with newsmen on Monday in Mina, Saudi Arabia.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah had, around 11a.m., stopped pilgrims from proceeding to the Jamarat Bridge for the ritual of throwing stones from 11a.m. to 4p.m., due to excessive heat.

    The pilgrims were cautioned against flouting Saudi authorities directive that prohibits them from the ritual of throwing stones within the stipulated time.

    Adamu said that even before the commencement of thechajj operation, he had sensitised members of the medical team to ways to prevent heatstroke that could arise from heatwave.

    He advised pilgrims to use umbrellas to protect themselves from the heatwave sun.

    He implored the pilgrims to always seek shade whenever possible to avoid direct sunlight.

    Adamu also empahaised the need for pilgrims to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty.

    ”Pilgrims are also advised to pay close attention to all health advisories and instructions provided by the medical team.

    ”To limit sun exposure, pilgrims should avoid going outside during peak heat. They should also refrain from walking in the sun.”

    Also, the Assistant Director, Public Affairs, NAHCON, Mrs Fatima Usara, said that the commission had been doing its best to educate the pilgrims, about the risk factors associated with exposing themselves to sun.

    Also, Dr Kabir Moha, said at least 14 Jordanian pilgrims have died while on the hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as temperatures soar in the kingdom.

    Jordan’s foreign ministry said, “14 Jordanian pilgrims died and 17 others were missing” during the performance of hajj rituals.

    It said its nationals had died “after suffering sun stroke due to the extreme heatwave” and that it had coordinated with Saudi authorities to bury the dead in Saudi Arabia, or transfer them to Jordan.

    The Iranian Red Crescent chief, Pir Hossein Kolivand, said “five Iranian pilgrims have lost their lives so far in Mecca and Medina during the hajj this year”, but did not say how they died.

    Mohammed Al-Abdulaali, a spokesperson for the Saudi health ministry, told reporters that more than 2,760 pilgrims suffered from sunstroke and heat stress on Sunday alone.

    Saudi Arabia has not provided any information on fatalities.

    The heat reached 47C (116.6F) in Mecca on Sunday, a temperature that was forecast to continue on Monday. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    SSI/AMM

    =========

    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • Insecurity: Radda visits Katsina pilgrims in Mina, harps on prayers

    Prayers

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    Mina (Saudi Arabia) June 17, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina on Monday paid Eid-el Kabir visit to the state pilgrims in the tent city of Mina in Makkah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that currently no fewer than 2,600 pilgrims from Katsina are undergoing hajj rite in Saudi Arabia.

    Radda, while addressing newsmen shortly after inspecting the tent, urged the pilgrims to continue to pray for the security, peace and harmony in the state and the country in general.

    “In fact, the impact of your prayers here in the holy city has started manifesting in Katsina because just about five days ago, security agencies have killed about 150 bandits in Katsina.

    “This is a clear testimony that God almighty has answered and when you return to Makkah continue to intensify prayers for the restoration of peace in the state.”

    The governor also advised all the pilgrims to continue to be patient, saying “this is the place where every Muslim is wishing to be.

    “God has blessed you by bringing you here and I hope that you will continue to pray for the state and the country and almighty Allah should guide us in the discharge of our responsibilities at whatever capacities.

    “I want to thank the Katsina State Amirul Hajj and all the officials of the state, who have been here with the pilgrims day and night trying to serve them.”

    Radda expressed satisfaction with the accommodation and feeding arrangements put in place for pilgrims, by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON)

    “I have gone through all the activities both in Madina and Makkah and I have gone through all the activities of pilgrims in Arafat, Mina and Muzzalifah and we are so grateful with what we saw on ground.

    “We are so happy with the pilgrims from Katsina, who have exhibited a sense of maturity, honesty, perseverance and resilience.

    “We thank them very much for doing that and I hope and pray that they will continue to intensify prayers for the good of our country.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    SSI/AMM

    =======

    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • African Caribbean Leaders want unity, end to “dependency syndrome’’ in Africa

    Africa
    By Okeoghene Akubuike

    Abuja, June 17, 2024 (NAN) Some African and Caribbean leaders have stressed the need for Africa to form a united force and end the continuous dependency on non-African countries/continents.

    They spoke at the 3rd AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2024) at Nassau, The Bahamas.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 3rd Annual AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF2024), organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), was incorporated into the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2024).

    The events focused on the theme “Owning Our Destiny: Economic Prosperity on the Platform of Global Africa’’.

    The events were monitored by NAN.

    Mahamadou Issoufou, a former President of Niger, during a plenary session at the ACTIF 2024, said:“Africa must do away with this dependency syndrome, which gets us thinking that the solutions to our problems are outside the continent.”

    According to him, there is a need for Africa to trust itself and move away from dependency on external solutions.

    Issoufou underscored the importance of creating value chains, industrialising the continent, and modernising agriculture to ensure that Africans could trade goods among themselves.

    He also called for strengthening democratic institutions to mobilise internal resources and reforming the global financial architecture to make it more equitable.

    A former Prime Minister of Jamaica, Hon. Percival Patterson, also asserted the need for self-reliance and unity among peoples of Africa and African descent.

    Patterson said it was important for Africa to exercise true sovereign power over its resources, saying “Africa must decide that it is the seller who determines the price.”

    “ If we came here and we were fighting among ourselves, it would be headline news.

    “We have come and we have renewed our pledge to work together as one’’

    He also highlighted the significance of cultural and academic exchanges between Africa and the Caribbean to develop mutual understanding and pride in shared heritage.

    “It is very important for us to develop that sense of knowledge, that sense of confidence, that sense of pride in ourselves.”

    Hon. Isaac Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister of The Bahamas, harped on unity, resilience, and collaboration, emphasising the importance and potential for joint ventures.

    “You are family, our brothers and sisters, and we love you, but I think this is an incredible opportunity to do more business with you.

    “We no longer believe we have to play by the rules we did not create.

    “We were victims of history, but if we stand together, we have the power to change history by fostering connections that will see us stronger, more united than ever before’’.

    Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, in a video address, called for stronger alliances.

    “The time is now to strengthen the African Caribbean Alliance and leverage strong historical ties, and reinforce the importance of inclusivity in building a prosperous future for all.

    “As we plan ahead, let us ensure our efforts reach every corner of our continent, leaving no one behind, especially our women and youth.

    “Together, we can build a future of prosperity and dignity for all.”

    Highlighting Afreximbank’s role as a catalyst for change and underscoring the critical role of Africa’s leadership, she noted the urgent need to transform the current global system to meet the needs of the Global South, particularly Africa.

    “Let us unite to address these challenges and build a resilient, innovative, and prosperous Global Africa,” she said.

    Hon. Philip Davis, Prime Minister of The Bahamas, in his keynote address, highlighted the crucial role of unity and collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean.

    Davis commended Prof. Benedict Oramah, President/Chairman, Board of Directors, Afreximbank, for his visionary leadership at the institution and called for a transformation of the global financial architecture.

    “This transformation will be aimed at creating a fair and inclusive system that recognises and respects the unique needs and potentials of African and Caribbean regions.”

    President William Ruto of Kenya, in his video message, identified the diverse prospects and unique advantages of Africa.

    Ruto called for a united approach to reforming global financial systems, suggesting that African central banks and governments dedicate 30 per cent of their national reserves to the development of Africa.

    He said the collective action for a prosperous future was very important.

    “Our journey towards economic prosperity is deeply connected to our understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage and the collective strength of global Africa.

    “We must embody the spirit of vigilance and an unbending principle, not only driven by economic interests but by the profound ethical imperative to advocate for a more inclusive and thorough global financial system.”

    Hailemariam Desalegn, a former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, highlighted the importance of understanding Africa’s history and transforming its political economy.

    “Our civilisation, the global civilisation, has begun in Africa. We can bring about the African Renaissance if we understand our history.”

    According to Desalegn, recognising Africa’s role in global civilisation can inspire future generations.

    However, to achieve true prosperity, he said Africa must move from a rent-seeking political economy to one that focuses on production and competition.

    “This shift demands visionary leadership to drive change and unlock Africa’s full potential.” (NAN)www.nannews.ng

    OKE/VIV

    =====

    Edited Vivian Ihechu

  • NiMet predicts 3-day thunderstorms, cloudiness across Nigeria

    NiMet predicts 3-day thunderstorms, cloudiness across Nigeria

    Weather

    By Gabriel Agbeja

    Abuja, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has predicted thunderstorms and cloudiness from Tuesday to Thursday across the country.

    NiMet’s weather outlook released on Monday in Abuja, forecasts morning thunderstorms on Tuesday over parts of Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Yobe and
    Gombe states.

    It envisaged thunderstorms over parts of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Kano, Bauchi, Katsina and Taraba states later in the day.

    “Partly cloudy conditions are expected over the central regions during the morning hours with prospects of afternoon/evening thunderstorms over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau, Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa and Kwara states.

    “Cloudy skies are expected over the
    southern region during the morning hours with prospects of afternoon/evening rains over part of Ondo, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Ebonyi, Abia, Ekiti, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa and Lagos states,” it said.

    According to NiMet, early morning thunderstorms are expected over parts of Taraba, Adamawa and Kebbi
    states on Wednesday.

    It further anticipated thunderstorm over parts of Taraba, Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Gombe, Bauchi and Kaduna later on Wednesday. .

    “Early morning thunderstorms are anticipated over
    parts of Kwara and Kogi states while later in the day, thunderstorms are expected over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau and Nasarawa states.

    “Morning rains are anticipated over parts of Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Rivers and Bayelsa states, while later in the day, rains are expected over most parts of the southern region,” it said.

    NiMet predicted morning thunderstorms on Thursday over parts of Taraba state and thunderstorms over Kebbi, Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina and Kano states later in the day.

    It envisaged thunderstorms over parts of the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau and Nasarawa states early in the morning.

    The agency predicted thunderstorms over the Federal Capital Territory, Plateau, Kogi and Nasarawa states later in the day.

    NiMet forecasts cloudy skies over the southern region during the morning hours with rains over the entire region later in the day.

    “Strong winds may precede the rains in areas where thunderstorms are likely to occur, public should take adequate precaution.

    “Airline operators are advised to get updated weather reports and forecasts from NiMet for effective planning in their operations.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    FGA/KOO/AMM
    ==============
    Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa and Abiemwense Moru

     

  • Lagbaja tasks troops to remain resolute in combating terrorism

    Troops

    By Hamza Suleiman

    Maiduguri, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja has charged troops to show greater sacrifice and dedication to end security challenges bedevilling Nigeria.

    He stated this on Monday during the Eid-el Kabir feast with troops of the North-East Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), at the Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.

    Lagbaja said that, “as an army, it has been a year of unquantifiable sacrifice in blood and treasure.

    “We have lost gallant warriors and precious equipment to our ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry, secessionist agitations, oil-related economic crimes, amongst others.

    “Our troops have displayed uncommon courage and faith in our dear country in the face of grave danger and, like the good soldiers that they are, you came out victorious for our nation.”

    According to him, many bear the badge of courage and bravery in the form of battle scars and deformities, while others are lucky to only have memories and stories to tell of their sacrifices to the country.

    He noted that there was no doubt that the “Feast of Sacrifice,” as it is known, is one of the significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar during which Muslims demonstrate their obedience to Allah by sacrificing animals.

    “This year’s Eid-el Kabir celebration particularly calls for introspection on how we have fared as individuals and an army.

    “This past year, as it comes just six days to my completing one year in office as Chief of Army Staff.

    “It is thus a period to reflect on the past year and show gratitude to God for the gift of life, relative peace that we have been able to restore to most parts of our country, and above all, hope for a better Nigeria.

    “I am not unacquainted with the economic realities of our times and how that might have impacted the scale of this year’s Eid-el Kabir celebration and our standard of living in general.

    “This reality is not peculiar to our dear country but a global economic issue that the government of the day is sincerely and carefully managing,” he said.

    He said the government deserves understanding, support, and unflinching loyalty at this critical period to implement necessary reforms to reset the system and restore the desured economic prosperity.

    The COAS enjoined Nigerian Army personnel and their family members to use the Eid celebration, to renew their commitments to personal sacrifice for the growth and development of the country.

    According to him, such sacrifices, seen and unseen, are the bedrock of the nation’s security and prosperity.

    While acknowledging their dedication, Lagbaja, reiterated commitment to providing the required leadership  to train, live and fight well.

    “I salute your courage and resilience. Your efforts are crucial to our national security, and I assure you that your sacrifices will not go unnoticed”.

    Lagbaja further lauded President Bola Tinubu for his support and focused leadership.

    Also speaking, Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, the Theartre Commander, OPHK, said that Lagbaja’s visit marked the gradually winding down of dry season operation in the North-East.

    Shuaibu said the items displayed at the event highlighted the efficiency of its operational engagements through doggedness and bravery of the troops.

    According to Shuaibu, the surrendered women and children, neutralised and captured terrorists as well as recovered equipment are not mere symbols of victory but a significant representation of the sacrifices of the gallant troops.

    He said that some of the gallant officers and soldiers wounded in action during the operations that recovered the platforms attended the Sallah feast.

    “To the wounded in action, you have our utmost respect and commitment at ensuring your full recovery.

    “We also pray that Almighty God continues to grant eternal rest to the souls of those that paid the supreme price during the various operations,” he said.

    Shuaibu said the event availed the troops the previlege to celebrate the season with the COAS, adding that the gesture would boost their morale to be more dedicated towards peace restoration in the region. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    HMS/KOO/RSA
    =============
    Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Rabiu Sani-Ali

  • Gov. Mutfwang condemns attack on task force, traders by hoodlums 

    Attack
    By Polycarp Auta
    Jos, June 17, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, has condemned the attack meted on members of the Task Force enforcing the executive order on urban renewal and some traders at the Bukuru market, Jos South Local Government Area of the state.
    This is contained in a statement by Mr Gyang Bere, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the governor, issued on Monday in Jos.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that hoodlums on Monday afternoon attacked members of the task force and traders, and set many vehicles ablaze at the market.
    NAN also reports that one life was lost during the sad incident.
    Mutfwang, who expressed deep regret over the ‘shameful’ act, promised to bring the miscreants to justice.
     The governor, who said that the market was designated by the government to accommodate lawful businesses, appealed to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
    ”I wish to express my deepest regret over the shameful action of these miscreants, who did not only targeted the task force but endangered the lives of traders.
    ”This market is designated by the government to accommodate lawful business activities, so I appeal to street vendors to relocate accordingly.
    ”The reckless behaviour of the attackers, who wielded dangerous weapons to inflict harm and loot shops, resulting in the destruction of vehicles owned by innocent traders is unacceptable.
    ”We condemn the incident which is entirely avoidable and we call on those flouting Executive Order 003 to desist from such act as their uncivilised action has resorted to violence against law-abiding citizens,” he warned.
    Explaining the broader purpose of the executive order 003, Mutfwang said that it aimed at safeguarding Jos metropolis from deteriorating into a slum and den for criminal activities.
    Mutfwang, who reiterated government’s unwavering resolve to decisively confront troublemakers, called on the security agencies to swiftly apprehend all perpetrators and ensure they face justice without delay.
    He called on religious and community leaders in the affected area, to guide their followers against unlawful conducts and adopt measures that would thwart criminal elements who may take advantage of such situation to cause disorder.
    The governor, who condoled those whose properties were destroyed during the incident, promised to foster peaceful atmosphere at all levels. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    AZA/MNA
    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

  • NAF airstrikes neutralise over 80 terrorists in Katsina

    NAF airstrikes neutralise over 80 terrorists in Katsina

    Airstrikes

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Abuja, June 17, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), says the Air Component of Operation Hadarin Daji, has eliminated more than 80 terrorists in recent air strikes at Gidan Kare Village of Ruwan Godiya Ward in Faskare Local Government Area of Katsina State.

    This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, AVM Edward Gabkwet, on Monday in Abuja.

    Gabkwet said the air strikes carried out on the night of June 15 killed the terrorists and burnt more than 45 motorcycles.

    He said the strikes became necessary following intelligence that terrorists numbering over 100 were reportedly burning houses at a settlement about five kilometers away from Gidan Kare Village.

    According to him, overhead the village at about 8.30pm, several houses were observed to be on fire with the entire Village in pandemonium.

    “Moments later, 12 motor cycles were seen departing the Village and trailed along a footpath out of the village to a location near Gidan Kare Village and Kuka Shidda Camp, where they joined a large number of their cohorts.

    “Other terrorists were also observed arriving the location from different directions, an indication that the location was a mass up point with the terrorists likely planning to further attack nearby villages.

    “Having been presented such a rare opportunity, authorization was sought, obtained and the location was immediately struck at exactly 9:40pm, with over 80 terrorists confirmed eliminated and about 45 motorcycles burnt down, while few surviving terrorists were observed fleeing or limping off.

    “Further intelligence received after the strike also revealed  that the terrorists were closely linked with notorious terrorists kingpin, Yusuf Yellow and his close associate Rabe Imani.

    “These strikes, along with others before now, have no doubt  disrupted terrorists activities in the area,” he said.

    Meanwhile, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, had commended the efforts of the air component as well as other security agencies in diminishing the capabilities of terrorist elements in the North West.

    The CAS made the commendation when he fête the air component at 213 Forward Operating Base, Katsina on Monday.

    He said the successes by the air component in synergy with other security agencies had continued to contribute to security within the region.

    He urged them not to relent in their efforts and dedication to the fight against terrorism and all forms of criminality in Nigeria.

    Abubakar had inaugurated some airfield facilities such as the new taxiway link, operations and engineering building, and the new sports complex.

    He said the airfield facilities would no doubt ensure air operations, especially within the Northwest, are more effective and efficient. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OYS/MNA

    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

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  • We got administrative, technical approvals for collapsed building – DMGS

     

     

    Collapse

    By Chimezie Anaso

    Awka, June 17, 2024 (NAN) Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS), Onitsha, says it obtained all relevant technical and administrative approvals in the construction its  collapsed centenary building.

     

    The mission-owned school made the clarification in a statement signed by Dr Chijioke Ojji, Director of Operations, DMGS Centenary, in Awka on Monday.

     

    It said the building plans approval was sought and obtained from the Anambra State Physical Planning Board, which also carried out periodic inspections during its construction.

     

    The school also said that materials used in the construction underwent rigorous quality assurance processes, including tests by the Anambra State Materials Testing Laboratory, in Awka.

    It said that it was cooperating fully with the panel set up by the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria to investigate why the building  collapsed.

     

    “In order to provide necessary assurance to the general public, we wish to state  indisputable facts concerning the DMGS centenary building.

     

    “All proper administrative and technical processes were scrupulously adhered to.

     

    “The architectural design of the building was  by a qualified and experienced architect, who is registered with the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria.

     

    “The structural design of the building was by one of the foremost structural engineers in Nigeria,” the school said.

     

    It added that the construction supervision was by an experienced structural engineer with over 30 years of experience while the technical foreman was a qualified engineer with relevant experience.

     

    DMGS said that it was aware that the identification of the cause of the collapse of the building would be a complex and painstaking evidence-based exercise that would take time. 

    He cautioned against hasty conclusions.

    He urged members of the public to  patiently  wait for verifiable and scientifically-sound conclusions on the cause of the collapse.

     

    “It is therefore with incredulity that we receive various press reports containing hasty, false, malicious and completely unsubstantiated purported conclusions as to the cause.

     

    “Our priority remains the safety of everyone: so, we share the public’s desire to know the truth and to prevent future accidents,” it said.

     

    Meanwhile, the school has confirmed that one person died from the building collapse while two persons were rescued alive.

     

    It condoled with  the family of the deceased and gave assurance  of its  support in dealing with the loss. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    APC/IGO 

    ========