Blog

  • ISPS Certification: NNPC Ltd. sustains move towards regulatory excellence

     

     

    Excellence

    By Emmanuella Anokam

    Abuja. June 2, 2024 (NAN) The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), has reiterated its commitment to sustain its move towards process improvement, regulatory compliance and performance excellence.

    This is coming as the NNPC Ltd. bagged the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency’s (NIMASA) Compliance Certification on Ship, Port Security.

    Mr Inuwa Danladi, the Executive Vice President, Business Services, NNPC Ltd. said this while speaking on the recent certification of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Compliance obtained by the Company, from NIMASA.

    The ISPS certification, issued in April 2024 and covering all NNPC Ltd. jetties nationwide, is crucial for the Company’s business continuity as it prevents potential operational disruptions and financial losses.

    Danladi on Sunday in a statement issued by Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd. said the certification also granted the Company entry into the Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS).

    This, he said would enhance its reputation as a safe and reliable business destination and potentially reducing the company’s insurance premiums.

    He listed some of the rigorous processes followed in obtaining the certification to include the upgrading of relevant security facilities at the nation’s ports and jetties and the establishment of the ISPS Code Command Centre.

    He also included the engagement of NIMASA Recognised Security Officer (RSO), who played a crucial role in managing key regulatory processes.

    “The development of Port Facility Security Assessment (PFSA); Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP), coupled with the meticulous Verification Inspection Exercise (VIE) from NIMASA.

    “It also underscores NNPC’s commitment to ensuring adherence to the highest standards of maritime security in the Company’s operations.

    “This achievement is a testament to our consistent dedication, and we pledge to continue striving towards attaining regulatory excellence in all our operations,’’ Danladi said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    ELLA/EEE

    ========

    Edited by Ese E. Eniola Williams

     

  • Unknown assailants kill middle-aged man in Ondo

    Unknown assailants kill middle-aged man in Ondo

    Murder
    By Muftau Ogunyemi
    Akure, June 2, 2024 (NAN) A middle-aged man, Seidu Jamiu, has been killed by yet-to-be-identified persons in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    The man was reportedly hacked to death late on Saturday by unknown persons who allegedly broke into his house in presence of his wife.

    SP Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, Police Public Relations Officers (PPRO), Ondo State Command, while confirming the murder of Jamiu to newsmen on Sunday, said police were yet to identify the killers.

    Odunlami-Omisanya explained that the deceased’s wife reported the incident at the police station on Sunday morning that some people killed her husband in the midnight of Saturday.

    The PPRO also said that no arrest had been made over the incident.

    “I can’t confirm that the victim’s wife killed him because it was the woman, the complainant of the incident, that reported the matter at police station.

    “We have not made any arrest, but investigation has begun into the incident,” PPRO said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OMA/AYO/IKU
    Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Tayo Ikujuni

  • Strike: School owners urge labour, FG to forge common grounds

    [contact-form][contact-field label=”Name” type=”name” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Email” type=”email” required=”true” /][contact-field label=”Website” type=”url” /][contact-field label=”Message” type=”textarea” /][/contact-form]

    Schools

    By Oluwakemi Oladipo

    Lagos, June 2,2024(NAN) The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has urged Nigeria union bodies against strike action but resorts for peaceful resolution with the Federal Government.

    The National President of the Association, Mr Yomi Otubela made this plea in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Lagos.

    Otubela said that the association identified with the struggles of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to improve the living conditions of workers in affiliated organisations.

    “It is important that we prioritise the well-being of our nation and work towards a peaceful resolution that benefits the workers, the economy, and the overall social fabric of Nigeria.

    “Rather than resorting to industrial action, we encourage both the federal government and the unions to further engage in constructive dialogue, negotiation, and mediation to find a mutually acceptable solution.

    “NAPPS is willing to offer its support and expertise in facilitating the negotiation process to ensure a fair and sustainable resolution for all parties involved,” he said.

    Otubela added that their members were enjoined not to participate in the indefinite strike by NLC/TUC commencing on June 3.

    “A strike action will disrupt the education sector, affecting both students and teachers.

    “Continued stability in the education system is crucial for the growth and development of our nation.

    “The ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will continue as scheduled by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

    “Students are advised to adhere to the original timetable and ensure timely attendance. Take note that other West African countries that are involved in WASSCE won’t wait for Nigerians,” he said.

    Otubela called on school owners and teachers to facilitate a conducive environment for students and staff during this period.

    “Communication channels should be opened and maintained to address any arising issues promptly. You can reach us for help through info@napps.com.ng,” he said.

    The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports that NLC and TUC had declared a nationwide strike beginning from Monday, June 3, over the tripartite committee’s inability to agree on a new minimum wage and hike in electricity tariff. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

    OKG/MNA 

    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

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

  • NAFDAC warns Nigerians against use of Sniper, other chemical for food preservation

    NAFDAC warns Nigerians against use of Sniper, other chemical for food preservation
    Warning
    By Aderogba George
    Abuja, June 2, 2024 (NAN) The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has again issued a stern warning to Nigerians regarding the use of hazardous chemicals like Snipers and others to preserve food.
    The warning is contained in a statement signed by Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC Director-General, and issued to newsmen in Abuja on Sunday.
    Adeyeye gave the warning while responding to a viral video showing individuals using dangerous chemicals to preserve food items like beans, stockfish, and crayfish.
    She said that the agency had many times emphasized on the dangers associated with dichlorvos (Sniper), a chemical commonly utilized by traders to safeguard food from spoilage, saying such could cause cancer, liver problem and others.
    She said that the sale of small volume dichlorvos (100 ml or less), has been banned since 2019 while the sale of the large volume (one litre) was left to certify agrochemicals outlets.
    Adeyeye said that NAFDAC underscored the toxicity of dichlorvos to human health, while cautioning that its use can have fatal consequences.
    She therefore urged traders and merchants to desist from using unauthorized chemicals on food meant for human consumption, adding that the misuse of dichlorvos posed significant risks to human health.
    According to her, the risk in using chemical for food preservation could manifest in both short-term and long-term exposure.
    “Long-term exposure can result in severe health implications, including developmental abnormalities in offspring, memory loss, reduced fertility, and potential carcinogenic effects.
    “These adverse effects highlight the importance of adhering to safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with dichlorvos exposure,” she said.
    The D-G emphasized alternative methods for preserving food, while mentioning the use of bio-pesticides as a safer option compared to dichlorvos.
    She noted that food remaining unspoiled for an extended period is an indication of pesticide contamination, rather than freshness, adding that unless such foods are stored in the refrigerator.
    She said that NAFDAC had implemented several initiatives such as stakeholders’ sensitization meetings on restricting the direct application of dichlorvos on grains and foodstuffs in addition to the banning of the 100 ml size bottle.
    Adeyeye said that the agency had initiated a thorough laboratory testing to ensure pesticide residues did not exceed maximum limits for both in-country consumption and for exports.
    She said that NAFDAC had initiated routine monitoring of stakeholder to ensure compliance, while highlighting continued global best practices, including the phase-out of certain pesticides that have been banned in other countries due to proven toxicity.
    She acknowledged the challenges faced by farmers due to bans on various chemicals and emphasized the importance of transitioning to safer alternatives.
    The D-G also addressed the misconceptions about banned chemicals being dumped in Nigeria, and clarified that comprehensive lists have been provided to the media to dispel such notions.
    The statement also quoted the Director of Veterinary Medicine and Applied Products (VMAP), Dr. Rametu Momodu, reiterating that using certain chemicals, especially pesticides, to protect grains and prevent beans from having weevils is not an approved practice.
    Adeyeye explained that there were approved pesticides for use as fumigants, which should be used according to the manufacturer’s specifications on the product label.
    She stressed that these products should not be applied directly to food due to their inherent dangers to human health, while elaborating that consuming food contaminated with dichlorvos could cause dizziness, vomiting, difficult breathing, tremors, and convulsions.
    According to her, in some cases, such could lead to coma and death, and that once a pesticides is used on food items, it remains or residual on such food, posing a significant health risks.
    She said that washing such food did not mitigate the risk, as the harmful substance would have already soaked into it.
    She stated that the agency could not recommend washing as a solution, as it gave a false sense of security.
    Momodu urged grain merchants, market vendors, and farmers to adhere strictly to manufacturer guidelines and refrain from directly applying dichlorvos to beans and other foodstuffs, adding that it should be used as field crop treatment or a fumigant, to ensure food safety.
    She also advised consumers to avoid buying from vendors known to use such practices and to report them to the nearest NAFDAC office for appropriate sanctions. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
    AG/MNA
    Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
    =======
  • Ikorodu stakeholders want LASG to build 4th mainland bridge

    Ikorodu stakeholders want LASG to build 4th mainland bridge

    Infrastructure

    By Adepote Arowojobe

    Ikorodu (Lagos state), June 2, 2024 (NAN) Stakeholders in Ikorodu have urged Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to build the 4th Mainland bridge and work on other uncompleted roads before the expiration of his tenure.

    The stakeholders, who disclosed this in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Ikorodu, Lagos State, said Ikorodu had infrastructural deficit.

    “Ikorodu is lagging behind in terms of infrastructural development, we are not where we are supposed to be in terms of infrastructural development,” they said.

    Prince Lanre Balogun, former Lagos State Commissioner for Rural Development, said that Gov. Sanwo-Olu, as a competent administrator, would deliver on his campaign promises to Ikorodu division as he did during his first term.

    He urged the governor to build the 4th mainland bridge and other uncompleted roads before the expiration of his tenure.

    “If you look at the budget of Lagos state in terms of infrastructure, you can now apportion them into division.

    “How much do they give Ikeja, Epe, Lagos Island and so on, and check how much of budget is allocated to Ikorodu in terms of infrastructure.

    “That is when you will know that we have a lot of infrastructural deficit.

    “The 4th mainland bridge which he promised that he will deliver, as we speak, they have finished the paper work/master plan and secure partners,” Balogun said.

    “The Isawo road is under construction but has not been completed, Igbogbo Baiyeku, Offin-Oreta road, all need attention.

    “We urge the governor to call on the contractors to go back to site.

    “Infrastructural development is for those living, anything given now is for those alive, I urge people in authority to take note and intervene immediately,” he said.

    Also, Chief Kayode Olomo, Baale of Ojogbe area of Ikorodu, said that Sanwo-Olu started well with Ikorodu but he needed to do more.

    “For example, he gave us two commissioners during his first term. But we want him to replace the commissioner he removed with an indigene.

    “Gberigbe axis also needs the intervention of government,” he said.

    On her part, Princes Adebukola Osho, the Iyaloja of Ikorodu central, said Gov. Sanwo-Olu has actually done well in his first term, adding that she believed he would do better this second term.

    She urged residents and political leaders to mediate and probably lobby on areas that needed attention.

    She added that this was necessary because the areas needing the attention of government must be identified to attract intervention.

    “This is the first time we are having a parallel government in both the Local government, State and the Federal.

    “Let us keep lobbying; we will enjoy more dividends of democracy in Sanwo-Olu’s government,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    ADEX/AMM
    ==========

    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

  • Student loan ‘ll curb undergraduates dropout–Minister

    Loan

    By Franca Ofili

    Abuja, June, 2, 2024(NAN)  The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, says that  the student loan scheme is for youths to access interest-free facility for their educational pursuits in  tertiary institutions.

    Olawande told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja that it was part of President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” to carry the youths along.

    He said that with the scheme, undergraduates would no longer drop out of school because of financial difficulties.

    .”If the president said a child will not drop out of school because he or she is not able to pay school fees, I think that is a very big plus for the ministry.’’

    Olawande advocated for enabling environment for young people to thrive and achieve their goals in life.

    According to him, the country has more than 60 per cent of young people; hence, with enabling environment much can be achieved.

    The minister said that the ministry was making critical decisions and suggestions while the president made sure they were put into action.

    Olawande said that the scheme had an agency and a chairman.

    He said that students could access the portal at https://nelf.gov.ng

    “You don’t need to know anybody;   just go and apply.

    “They will put it together; send it to the school and it will be sorted out so that one can study properly and pass the exam.’’

    According to him, the loan is for students in public tertiary and technical institutions.

    Olawande said that everything must not be just education because the country had gotten to the stage were skills was needed.

    “China, India, U.S. and others are successful because of the skills the citizens have.

    “The government is not saying that everything must be university, polytechnic tertiary institution, it must also go to the technical schools so that the person can have one or two skills.

    “Most of the foreigners they bring to Nigeria to come and work which we call graduates are not graduates; they are technicians,” he said.

    According to him, in every ministry and parastatals, young people are found there; so, most of the decisions government makes still boils down on the youth.

    NAN reports that the student loan, which is being implemented at present, is part of the Higher Education Access Act, assented to by Tinubu in June 2023.

    In February, the Act was returned to the National Assembly for a complete overhaul and was passed again and assented to by the president.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    FNO/CJ/

     

    Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

  • Apo Resettlement residents decry poor state of link roads

     

    Infrastructure

    By Dorcas Jonah

    Abuja, June 2, 2024 (NAN) Residents of Apo Resettlement Area in the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT) have decried the poor state of link roads and other social amenities in the area.

    The residents, in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, said they always pass through a lot of difficulties accessing their homes.

    The residents further said that accessing critical facilities such as schools and hospitals was also a major challenge due to lack of link roads.

    Elder Babayinka Ojo, a resident of Apo, said that all link roads leading to the markets and some estates have remained inaccessible by both motorists and pedestrians over the years.

    ”Our city roads are full of potholes some of which have become craters.

    ”These potholes are hazardous to motorists and pedestrians alike as they increase the risk of accidents, falls and possible injuries.

    “Driving at night is incredibly challenging and unsafe because of the dreadful roads and dilapidated link roads.

    “The alternative road that is supposed to connect Agaba Estate junction to Main Market to decongest the excess traffic leading to the market is not accessible to both motorists and pedestrians,” he said.

    He said that some abandoned structures in the area have been occupied by criminals and drug addicts who pose serious danger to the residents.

    ”The Sen. Zephaniah Jisalo neighbourhood roads are an eyesore.

    ”The worst is a cashew plantation in the area called Agwa TV, which Indian hemp smokers have turned to a ‘no go area’ between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. daily,” he alleged.

    Ojo said that the road linking Lokogoma, Apo Mechanic, Shoprite/burial ground was another death trap to motorists.

    Another resident, Mrs Esther Ekong, appealed to the Minister of FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, to come to their aid by fixing the bad roads in the area.

    Ekong urged the minister to use his office to assist the community by allocating funds for the construction of roads in the area.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

    DE/AMM

    ========

    Edited by Abiemwense Moru

     

  • NCPC Chairman says unity crucial to Nigeria’s growth

     

    Unity

    By Philomina Attah
    Abuja, June 2, 2024 (NAN) Rev. Cletus Gotan, Chairman, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), has emphasised the need for unity in Nigeria, stressing that it was crucial to building a strong and virile nation.

    Gotan spoke in Abuja at a meeting with the NCPC board, management, state pilgrimage leaders, and Christian pilgrimage operators in Nazareth, Israel.

    “We must all champion the cause of unity. We cannot get anywhere without it,” he stated.

    Goran referred to John 17: 20-21, where Jesus emphasised unity, and encouraged Christian leaders to preach similar message to the Faithful.

    He expressed optimism that God would grant the NCPC board the grace to lead excellently, emphasising the importance of selflessness.

    “In NCPC, you and I have the responsibility to worship together so that truth and love should continue to bind us together,” he said.

    He affirmed that Christianity had a strong tradition of pilgrimage, and highlighted the importance of reconnecting with God and learning about the history of Christianity.

    The Nigerian Ambassador to Israel, Mrs Agatha Afoekelu, in a remark, acknowledged the significance of pilgrimage in Christianity, and commended the leadership of Bishop Stephen Adegbite, NCPC Executive Secretary.

    She emphasised the need for pilgrims to conduct themselves properly and avoid negative tendencies.

    “Pilgrimage is not a jamboree; it is a serious spiritual exercise.

    “The Holy Land is holy and will continue to be holy,” she declared.

    According to her, the Nigerian Embassy is working closely with Israel’s Ministry of Interior to ensure the comfort and security of Nigerian pilgrims.

    Adegbite, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the retreat and highlighted the transformation in NCPC’s image since he was appointed.

    “We shall strive to meet everyone’s expectation. We are one family and we will leave a remarkable mark behind.

    “This retreat is a period of spiritual rejuvenation and we are here to seek the face of God,” Adegbite said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    APA/ETS
    =======

  • NDLEA intercepts over N2.1bn worth of Codeine syrup, Loud consignment

    Illicit drugs intercepted by NDLEA operatives

     

    NDLEA intercepts over N2.1bn worth of Codeine syrup, Loud consignment
    Drugs
    By Ibironke Ariyo
    Abuja, June 2, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted large consignments of codeine-based syrup and Loud, a synthetic strain of cannabis worth over N2.1 billion in street value.
    The NDLEA spokesman, Mr Femi Babafemi said this in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.
    Babafemi said that the consignments were seized at Onne port, Rivers and the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, (MMIA) Ikeja by the NDLEA operatives.
    According to him, at the Lagos airport, NDLEA officers with the cooperation of other security agencies on Friday May 31, intercepted a large consignment of Loud.
    He said that the drugs were in eight suitcases, containing 320 parcels with a total weight of 164.50kg of the strong psychoactive substance.
    He added that they were coming from Canada on a KLM flight via Amsterdam, Netherlands.
    Babafemi said that the consignment estimated to be worth N960 billion, which was brought in by a passenger, Ughenu Francis, was discovered at the E-arrival hall of the airport by personnel of NDLEA, Customs and others.
    “This was during a joint search operation by the security operatives while the suspect was attempting to smuggle the suitcases out of the hall.
    “Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect is a resident of Germany but travelled to Toronto, Canada to transport the drug to Nigeria.

    “During his interview, he claimed that he was recruited as a mule to convey the drug to Nigeria for an agreed fee of N6 million,” he said.

    Codeine syrup seized by the NDLEA operatives
    In another development at the Onne Port in Rivers, NDLEA operatives on Monday May 27 intercepted a container marked TEMU 6807401 imported from India enroute C to C bonded terminal in Enugu.
    According to Babafemi, during a joint examination of the container by personnel of NDLEA, Customs and other security agencies, 1,750 cartons of codeine were discovered.
    He said the cartons, which collectively weighing 26,250kg, contained 175,000 bottles of the opioid worth N1,225,000,000, in street value.
    “Also, in Abuja, a 25-year-old lady, Blessing Thomas, was arrested with 1.0kg methamphetamine by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Kwali – Gwagwalada expressway,” he said.

    Babafemi said that the suspect was arrested on Friday May 31 while travelling in a commercial bus from Lagos to Yola, Adamawa state.

    Illicit drugs intercepted by the NDLEA operatives
    Also, Babafemi said that operatives in Nasarawa state on Wednesday May 29 nabbed a 70-year-old man, Muhammadu Ibrahim, with 57.2kg of  marijuana in Lafia, the state capital.
    The NDLEA spokesman further said that two suspects: Suleiman Kazeem, 35, and Sunday Gbenga, 20, were arrested when NDLEA officers raided Ara forest in Ara-Ekiti, Ekiti state.
    He said that the operatives recovered 426 kilogrammes of marijuana already processed and packed in big sacks.
    Babafemi added that the NDLEA operatives also destroyed over 4,000kg of marijuana on 1.66 hectares of farmland on Thursday May 30.
    According to him, operatives of the agency also seized 76 blocks of marijuana, weighing 42kg, from a Nigerien, Suleman Audu, 29, in Katisna State.
    He said that the suspect was arrested on the Zaria – Malumfashi road on Wednesday May 29.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
    ICA/ISHO/AOS
    =========
    Edited by Yinusa Ishola/Bayo Sekoni
  • Climate Change: NGO empowers communities for environmental sustainability

    Participants at the workshop

     

    Empowerment

    By Abigael Joshua

    Abuja, June 2, 2024 (NAN) Sustainable Environment and Fisheries Foundation (SEFFA), an NGO, says it has empowered communities in Jos and environs for environmental sustainability.

    Mrs Ololade Adegoke, Chief Executive Officer, SEFFA, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

    She said that SEFFA, a Jos-based NGO, is dedicated to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and environmental protection as well as empowering young girls in the fight against climate change.

    “Since its inception in 2008, SEFFA has been a pivotal force in empowering communities, especially women, to improve their livelihoods and contribute to environmental sustainability

    “The organisation continues to complement the efforts of government and development partners in promoting climate-friendly actions and ensuring a sustainable environment for humans, livestock, and plants.’’

    According to her, the foundation welcomes partnerships with development organisations and government bodies to further their mission of advocacies, actions and sustainable practices.

    The chief executive officer emphasised the importance of raising awareness about climate-smart agriculture and sustainable practices.

    According to her, by providing education and resources, SEFFA aims to create a new generation of “climate smart ambassadors” who can drive change in their communities.

    “By educating young girls about climate change and its impacts, we prepare them to ask the right questions and take meaningful actions to address these challenges.’’

    She said SEFFA recently conducted a three-day training programme from May 16 to May 19 in Jos with the theme “Building Life Resilience for Climate Change in Jos, Plateau.’’

    Adegoke said that the young girls who participated in the training would not only serve as ambassadors but also become influential voices for change in their communities and beyond.

    “The involvement of future leaders in climate advocacy is crucial.’’

    She said that SEFFA also recently concluded a programme in collaboration with United Nations Development Programme/ Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator (AFCIA).

    Adegoke said that the collaboration brought together 48 young girls from selected secondary schools and communities in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas.

    “During the training, participants engaged in sessions such as: Introduction to Climate Change and Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices, Financial Literacy for Young Farmers Building Synergy through Cooperatives and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene(WASH).

    “Others are General Hygiene Practices for Girls and the Introduction to Solar Charging Point Business.

    “SEFFA has a series of climate-smart activities planned for July, which will expand their outreach to more communities,” she said.

    On his part, Newton Akpona, acting Chairman of the National Sector Skills Council for Agriculture and Agri-processing, highlighted the significance of creating awareness among young farmers.

    He said that fostering a positive mindset and adopting climate-smart practices were essential steps in mitigating the effects of climate disasters.

    NAN recalls that on May 14, 2024 SEFFA also distributed farm inputs to communities in Gurapwana, Dahwol-Bob, and Vom in Jos South Local Government Area.

    SEFFA is collaborating with the Federal College of Veterinary Research and Medical Laboratory Technology, Vom, to build a greenhouse facility and to support individuals, families, and societies in adopting smart agricultural practices. (NAN) (www.nananews.ng)

    AIJ/CJ/

    ==========

    Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo