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  • Democracy: NGO tasks citizens on being change makers

    Change

    By Oluwafunke Ishola 

    Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) A Non-Governmental Organisation, the Benjamin Olowojebutu Foundation (BOF) on Wednesday urged Nigerians to be the change they desired in their sphere of influence to birth a better and prosperous country.

    Dr Benjamin Olowojebutu, the Founder of BOF and also the first Vice-President, NMA, made the appeal in a message in commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day Celebration.

    Olowojebutu said that growing needs and urgent demands made it imperative for citizens to become the change they sought.

    “Can we genuinely itemise the changes we seek in the various constituencies of human endeavours we currently represent – academia, medicine, technology, military, sport, religion, business, politics.

    “We have a long list of changes compiled in our minds, with strong expectations that someday the government and other revered people will make those changes and correct the aged errors.

    “Pathetically, we have lived in the cocoon of such expectations for decades; hoping, trusting, assuming, and waiting, sadly wasting our precious time in anticipation of a nonexistent saviour to calm our frayed nerves and turn the tide of things,” he said. 

    According to him, mere prayer and faith for a better society without a corresponding work will produce futile and inept results. 

    The NGO founder said: “I had a foretaste of this in the most profound and life-changing manner. 

    “For years, I have dutifully dispensed my medical expertise to people of all ages and classes. I have diligently observed certain lacuna and inefficiencies that I expected the government to address in our healthcare system.

    “But a single event changed my paradigm. One fateful day in 2016, a drunk driver recklessly hit my car. This head-on collision resulted in a fatal accident. 

    “I broke my right femur and was assisted to the hospital by some good Samaritans. I was not attended to for hours at the hospital – my vital signs were not taken, nor was I assigned a bed. 

    “Gradually, life was seeping out of me. Strangely, the doctors were ready to refer me to another medical facility until my wife and colleagues intervened by wielding their influence and connections.

    “This swung the CMD into action, and graciously, I was attended to. 

    “However, this encounter spurred an unanswered question, “What would have happened if I was just a peasant farmer?” 

    Olowojebutu noted that the experience made him reevaluate his expectations and contributions to humanity, leading to the birth of the Benjamin Olowojebutu Foundation (BOF).

    “As a non-profit organisation, BOF has conducted over 10,000 surgeries for indigent people free of charge. Giving hope to helpless people across the six geo-political zones of our nation.

    “Previously, I never thought that was possible. Until I dared to start it alone. As an individual, we are more powerful and capable than we thought.

    “However, to harness this inherent power, we must see things differently – seeing ourselves as the change we seek is a game changer while seeing ourselves as victims or mere commentators is a ship-sinker,” he said. 

    Olowojebutu emphasised that to become nation-builders, citizens must improve their thought patterns, level of participation and commitment to achieve a better and prosperous Nigeria and Africa.

    BOF is a NGO which gives the less- privileged in Africa access to healthcare.

    It intervenes in fibroid treatment and removal; breast lump screening and removal; lipoma treatment and removal, hernia screening and removal, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    AIO/CHOM/COF

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

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Christiana Fadare

     

     

  • Nigeria’s democracy deepened by patriotic citizens – Sen. Abiru  

     

    Democracy

    By Adepote Arowojobe

    Ikorodu (Lagos State), June 12, 2024 (NAN) Sen. Mukhail Abiru (APC Lagos-East) on Wednesday commended Nigerians for their steadfastness and patriotism, saying it had helped in deepening democracy in Nigeria in the last 25 years.

    Abiru made the commendation in a statement signed by Mr Enitan Olukotun, his Media Aide, to commemorate the  2024 Democracy Day.

    Abiru, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and other Financial Institutions, and the Southern Senators Forum, urged Nigerians to be hopeful of better days.

    He stressed that President Bola Tinubu’s tough policy decisions were geared toward restoring the nation to the path of sustainable growth and development.

    According to him, there is light at the end of the tunnel, appealing to Nigerians to support and show understanding with the government of President Tinubu.

    Abiru said: “I join esteemed constituents of the Lagos East Senatorial District and all Nigerians in commemorating the 2024 Democracy Day.

    “It has been 25 years since we started the democratic journey.

    “The challenges notwithstanding, we have every reason to celebrate our growing democracy.

    “I urge all Nigerians not to despair but rather, to continue to seek ways of consolidating gains of the nation’s fledgling democracy.

    “I also seek the support and understanding of all Nigerians for our dear President in his patriotic quest of restoring our nation on the path of progress.

    “The pains and inevitable discomforts that come with such audacious policy decisions will soon give way, as we start seeing the positive outcomes of the government’s policies.

    “ On this auspicious occasion of democracy day, I pay tribute to the resilience and determination of our people, which have propelled our nation forward on the path of progress and prosperity.”

    He extended his heartfelt congratulations to every Nigerian citizen for their role in safeguarding and advancing our democratic ideal.

    “Together, let us continue to work tirelessly toward a future of unity, equality, and boundless opportunity for all. Happy Democracy Day Nigeria!,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    ADEX/CHOM/COF

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

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Christiana Fadare

     

     

  • Democracy Day: Troupe unveils world largest painting portrait of Tinubu 

     

    Democracy Day: Troupe unveils world largest painting portrait of Tinubu

    Portrait

    By Sumaila Ogbaje

    Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The National Troupe of Nigeria on Wednesday unveiled a large painting portrait of President Bola Tinubu, during the Democracy Day Celebration at Eagle Square, Abuja.

    As announced, the portrait project was initiated by the Artifact Gallery, Best Theatre Company and the National Council for Arts and Culture.

    The portrait of the President is said to be the world’s largest painting portrait on canvas.

    The unveiling of the portrait is one of the thrilling activities to celebrate the nation’s democratic journey in the last 25 years.

    The event had a massive turnout of top government functionaries, security chiefs, members of diplomatic corps, among other dignitaries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    OYS/FON/AMM

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

    Edited by Florence Onuegbu and Abiemwense Moru

  • Ogun’ll continue to uphold MKO Abiola’s vision – Abiodun

    Ogun’ll continue to uphold MKO Abiola’s vision – Abiodun

     

    June 12

     

    By Abiodun Lawal

     

    Abeokuta, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun says the state government will continue to uphold the vision and desires of late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.

     

    Abiodun said this on Wednesday, during a special memorial prayer held at the Abiolas’ family house, in Oja Agbo, Gbagura, Abeokuta, in honour of the late politician and business mogul.

     

    Abiola was the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, annulled by the then military government.

     

    The election, despite its annulment, has been described as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.

     

    Abiola, unhappy with the annulment, later declared himself president, which led to his arrest and subsequent detention by the then military government.

     

    He died in detention on July 7, 1998.

     

    Former President Muhammadu Buhari, in 2018, decided to change the celebration of Democracy Day from May 29 to June 12 in recognition of the 1993 election, adjudged freest and fairest in the nation’s history.

     

    He also conferred on Abiola, posthumously, the highest national award.

     

    Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, at Wednesday’s prayer session, said that the late MKO wanted the best for everybody, when he was alive, regardless of ethnicity or religion .

     

    “We are here to honour late MKO and pray for his soul and also celebrate 25 years of unbroken democracy in the country,” he said.

     

    Abiodun explained that democracy had continued to thrive in Nigeria, as it had accorded the people the best leadership.

     

    “We will continue to uphold what MKO believed in; democracy has continue to thrive.

     

    “Democracy is what will give our people the best leadership,” he said.

     

    The governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu for what he had done to better the lots of Nigerians, urging citizens to pray for the progress of the country.

     

    Speaking on behalf of the Abiola family, one of his sons, Ameen Abiola, appreciated the state and the federal government for always celebrating his father, after his death.

     

    He appreciated Ogun government for preserving the heritage of Abiola’s family.

     

    In his sermon at the memorial prayer, Alhaji Daud Toriola, Mufasir Egba Agura, described the late MKO Abiola as one of the greatest philanthropists the nation had ever produced.

     

    Toriola prayed for the late business mogul, the state and Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

    LKA/FON/SOA

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

     

    Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Oluwole Sogunle

  • NDF commends Abass over Police Act amendment Bill

    NDF commends Abass over Police Act amendment Bill

    Bill

    By Femi Ogunshola

    Abuja, June 12, 2024(NAN) The National Democratic Front (NDF),  has lauded the House of Representatives Speaker,  Tajudeen Abbas for considering the Bill for an Act to amend the Nigeria Police Act 2020.

    In a statement by its Secretary General, Dr Abdulkadir Musa in Abuja on Wednesday, the group also commended the Chairman, House Committee on Police Affairs, Rep. Abubakar Yalleman.

    Yalleman was commended for his dedication to addressing security challenges in the country at all levels.

    It would be recalled that the Police Act Amendment Bill recently passed second reading in the House of Representatives.

    Among other things, the bill seeks to review the service years of police personnel to improve the experience and expertise of the police workforce.

    It also seeks to improve morale performance and job satisfaction, and address the shortage of experienced police personnel in the country.

    Musa described the legislation as timely in the quest for a more robust, responsive and people-friendly police.

    He said the amendment would not only improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the Nigerian Police Force but would also lead to enhanced performance of personnel.

    “This amendment bill, which seeks to improve effectiveness and efficiency of the Nigerian Police Force, is a milestone in the quest for a more robust, responsive, and people-friendly policing system.

    “The bill’s provisions include extension of police officers’ retirement age and service years, will undoubtedly lead to improved morale, retention of experienced personnel, and enhanced overall performance of the force’’, he said.

    He urged the Senate to concur with the House and for President Bola Tinubu to assent to it without delay when passed by the two chambers of the National Assembly.

    “We believe that this amendment will significantly contribute to the improvement of security and safety in Nigeria”, he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    ODF/CHOM/KUA

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

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Uche Anunne

  • OAUSTECH gets NUC full accreditation for 14 programmes

    OAUSTECH gets NUC full accreditation for 14 programmes

    Accreditation
    By Aderemi Bamgbose
    Okitipupa (Ondo State) June 12, 2024 (NAN) The National Universities Commission (NUC) has given full accreditation status to 14 programmes at the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Ondo State.

    Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, the Vice-Chancellor of OAUSTECH, told journalists on Wednesday in Okitipupa.

    Ologunorisa said that the accreditation was contained in a letter dated June 6, and signed by Engr Abraham Chundusu, the acting Director of Accreditation on behalf of the Executive Secretary of NUC.

    He said that NUC conducted accreditation of academic programmes at the institution between October and November 2023.

    According to him, the result of exercise indicates full accreditation for all the 14 programmes on offer in the university.

    “Although, the institution’s programmes had got interim accreditation in the previous exercise conducted before my administration which begin on March, 23, 2022,” Ologunorisa said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programmes with full accreditation include; Agriculture, Fisheries, Computer Science, Civil Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, and Food Science Technology.

    Others are; Mechanical Engineering. Botany, Geophysics, Industrial Chemistry, Mathematics, Microbiology, Statistics and Zoology.

    Prof. Akinbo Adesomoju, the Chairman of Governing Council of the institution, however commended the management for the achievement. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    BAA/IKU

    Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

  • Mrs Soludo gives 1000 PWDs free health insurance worth N12.5m

     

    Dr Nonye Soludo addressing PWDs in Awka

     

    Mrs Soludo gives 1000 PWDs free health insurance worth N12.5m
    Enrollment
    By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu
    Awka, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, on Wednesday sponsored the enrolment of 1000 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) into the state’s Health Insurance scheme to promote their healthcare.
    Soludo made the announcement during a town hall meeting with persons with special needs organised to promote her Healthy Living Initiative in Awka.
    She said that PWDs had the capacity to bring unique values to the journey towards a livable and prosperous Anambra State, when given adequate attention.
    “I invited you because I love you all and look out for you. My husband’s administration also appreciates your undying desire to bring your best to the table of good governance.
    “As I behold your amazing faces, I see strength, tenacity, doggedness and unbeatable ambitions. This is why Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative is giving out 1000 health insurance slots free to PWDs in the state.
    “This is our own way of saying that we care about you and we know that health is the greatest wealth. This free health insurance will be your passport to access the best medicare anywhere in the state.
    “I want you to ensure that you use the health insurance fully to your advantage. When you notice any sign of infirmity, do not waste time visiting your doctor,” she said.
    Soludo urged the PWDs to prioritise their health, eat right, imbibe personal and environmental hygiene to stay healthy and alive.
    Also speaking, Mr Ugochukwu Okeke, Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities in Anambra, requested for the inclusion of PWDs in the Healthy Living campaign.
    According to him, PWDs are more affected when it comes to the issues of healthy living as a result of different challenges hinging on their various nature of disabilities.
    “Including PWDs in your campaign will help get the awareness and support down to our members, thereby enabling an inclusive society,” he said.
    In his keynote address, Prof. Williams Obiozor, Director, Centre for Disability and Special Needs Research, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, advocated for more support and inclusion of persons with disabilities in the society.
    Obiozor said that empowering and catering for the well-being of PWDs was a collective effort and should not be left for government alone.
    In her remarks, Mrs Ify Obinabo, state’s Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, appreciated the Governor’s wife for the demonstration of love to persons with disabilities in the state.
    Mr Simeon Onyemaechi, the Executive Secretary, Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, said the package cost N12,500 annually to get medicines and treatments of health conditions covered by the scheme. (NAN) www.nannews.ng
    LCO/COF
    ==========
    Edited by Christiana Fadare

  • Tinubu among heroes of Nigeria democracy – Benue NASS caucus 

    Tinubu among heroes of Nigeria democracy – Benue NASS caucus

    President Bola Tinubu

    Democracy

    By Femi Ogunshola

    Abuja, June 12, 2024(NAN) The  National Assembly members, Benue caucus has  described President Bola Tinubu as one of the country’s living heroes of democracy and an  exemplary leader committed to democratic values

    Rep.  Philip Agbese, spokesperson of the group praised Tinubu’s efforts in promoting economic growth, good governance and social justice, in a statement in Abuja on Wednesday to mark Democracy Day.

    He said the president’s dedication to the nation’s progress is a testament to his statesmanship and vision.

    He also commended the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, for his crucial role in supporting the president’s agenda and ensuring effective implementation of policies.

    “On this auspicious occasion of Democracy Day, the Benue caucus in the national assembly salutes and celebrates Tinubu, a shining exemplar of democratic values and a champion of the Nigerian people.

    “We are honoured to extol the virtues of the president, who has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the growth and development of our beloved country, Nigeria”, he said.

    He said that Tinubu’s leadership and vision had rekindled hope and inspired a new generation of Nigerians to embrace democracy as a way of life.

    “We also commend the SGF for his love and dedication to the people of Benue and Nigeria at large.

    “His selfless service and contributions to our nation’s progress are duly acknowledged and appreciated.

    “We pledge our continued support, loyalty and collaboration with this administration to ensure the realisation of our shared vision for a prosperous and united Nigeria”, he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    ODF/CHOM/KUA

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

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Uche Anunne

  • Democracy remains best form of government – Gov Mbah

    Democracy

    By Alex Enebeli

    Enugu, June 12, 2024 ( NAN) Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State says democracy remains the best form of government in spite of the teething challenges the country is currently facing.

    Mbah stated this in his Democracy Day message to the people of the state on Wednesday in Enugu.

    While congratulating the Enugu people and Nigerians in general, the governor said democracy still remained the best form of government globally.

    Mbah, who described June 12 as a watershed in the nation’s democratic struggles, also paid tributes to notable Nigerians, including Chief Moshood Abiola and President Bola Tinubu, for their contributions to the enthronement of the current democratic dispensation.

    “As our nation celebrates Democracy Day today, I felicitate with Enugu people and all Nigerians on this momentous milestone in Nigeria’s history.

    “June 12 is a watershed moment for our democracy, the protracted struggle for it and ultimately, the democratic freedoms that we take for granted today.

    “So, today is an occasion for us to call to mind the sacrifices of everyone, living or dead, who played diverse roles in ensuring that democracy blossoms in Nigeria,” he said.

    He, however, paid a special tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, among a host of others, for their heroic contributions in the struggle.

    “I enjoin everyone to let our commitment to upholding the democratic culture be renewed by the memory of the price we paid for democracy.

    “There is no doubt that our democracy may be experiencing some floundering steps and challenges but it, nonetheless, remains the best form of government that guarantees prosperity for all.

    “Indeed, today is also a fitting occasion to restate my commitment to improving the lives of Enugu people and to set the state on a firm path of progress,” he promised. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    AAE/CHOM/MNA

    ========

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

     

  • Ondo govt. approves judicial village, N980m Akure Stadium projects

     

    Approval

    By Segun Giwa

    Akure, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Ondo State Government has approved the building of a new judicial village and renovation of the  state’s  Sports Complex.

    It has also approved the construction of a 28 kilometre road in Irele local government area that leads to the state’s free trade zone and Edo.

    The Commissioners for Justice, Mr Kayode Ajulo (SAN), Commissioner for  Sports, Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, and Special Adviser on Infrastructure Ayo Babalola, disclosed this at a news  briefing after the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting held on Tuesday in Akure.

    Ajulo announced that the SEC approved the building of a new judicial village that would be a legacy project of the current administration.

    The commissioner said the building project would be  different from previous ones and would be more befitting and conducive for judicial workers in the state.

    “This project has been conceptualised earlier, this is what is important to our governor and a laudable project.

    “And I believe this is the first time we are having such project in Ondo State to have a befitting place for our justices and where people get justice,” he said.

    Also, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development said that the executive council had approved N980 million for the renovation of the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.

    Yusuf-Ogunleye said the renovation would cover the main pitch,  indoor sports hall and other necessary facilities to make the stadium a better place.

    He commended Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support for the development of sports and support for youths in the state.

    Meanwhile, the Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Mr Ayo Babalola, said that the executive council had approved construction of the 28 kilometre Akotobo- Iju-Osun road in Irele Local Government Area of the state.

    Babalola said that the road when completed would add economic value to lives of the people of the state, provide access to the  free trade zone, Edo and the ongoing Federal Government’s  coastal road.  (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    GSD/CHOM/AOS

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

    Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Bayo Sekoni