Federal Government Approves Establishment Of 16 New Science And Technical Colleges Across The Country

Federal Government Approves Establishment Of 16 New Science And Technical Colleges Across The Country

Francis Tayor

PortHarcourt___ Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, has said the federal government has approved the establishment of new Federal Science and Technical Colleges in 16 states in its effort to reposition the nation’s educational system for self-reliance.

This was coming as Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, said no nation could develop without appropriate education and vocational skills by its citizens.
In a keynote address at opening ceremony of the 64th Meeting of the National Council on Education (NCE) in Port Harcourt yesterday, Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, said the federal government was working towards developing a functional educational system that would make citizens self-reliant.

He said: “There is no doubt that Technical and Vocational Education and Training holds the key to the development of our country’s industrial sector, thus the challenges of youth unemployment can best be addressed through quality education that guarantees self-reliance.

“Entrepreneurship Education and training is globally acknowledged as an important strategy for tackling youth unemployment. In our drive to reposition education for self-reliance, particular attention has been given to the development of technical, vocational and entrepreneurial skills in learners as the present administration has trained over 500 science, vocational and mathematics teachers on the use of modern equipment and new approaches in schools.”
Adamu added that the federal government was improving access to quality education in different parts of the country.

While declaring open the meeting, Wike stated that the nation can only attain development when the citizens are empowered with the right knowledge and appropriate skills to contribute to national growth. He said educational empowerment would equip the citizens to sustain themselves.
According to him, “The reality is that no country can be politically stable, economically robust and socially secure and cohesive if the citizens are not empowered with knowledge, appropriate skills and the right values to sustain themselves and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the country.”
He called for the promotion of inclusive and equitable quality education to promote lifelong learning opportunities for all by 2030.

He said: “Agenda 2030 is therefore a call to action on our collective commitments to transformative education by addressing all forms of exclusion, disparities and inequities and ensuring that every child, irrespective of social background, cultural affiliation, location and family or income status is not left behind but have equal and equitable access to quality and transformative public education.
“This requires providing the enabling legal framework, adopting the right policies and programme of action, deploying adequate resources and manpower, including qualified teachers in addition to a strong political will from the government at all levels.”
The governor identified lack of political will by government, inadequate allocation of resources, lack of commitment and by parents, teachers and school leaders, lack of or ineffective monitoring policy implementation as some of the serious factors responsible for the deteriorated status of education across the country.

Wike said: “As a former Minister of State Education, I am quite familiar with the NCE and what it stands for as the highest national policy organ on education.
During our time and under my watch as minister, we initiated and implement several policies and programmes, such as the Girl-Child Education programme, the Almajiri education policy and programme, and the Special Vocational/Basic Education programme for boys as well as the national policy on Albinism. We also strengthened the quality of learning with the provision of modern e-libraries for the Federal Government Colleges.
“While I am not very sure of the present status of these laudable programmes, I do believe that they are fundamental to resolving some of the age-long underlying problems with our education system that borders on lack of universal access, equity and gender inequality. And if you reflect for a moment on the state of our country, the chaos, the misery, stagnation and hopelessness among the majority of our people, you will appreciate the cost of inadequate investments in education.”
The governor added that in Rivers State, his administration has invested in the development of education for the rapid growth of the state.

He said: “Here in Rivers State, our commitment is to provide equal opportunity to all our children to attend great schools, be taught by committed and well-motivated teachers at all levels and enable them to acquire the training and skills they need to realise their full potential and be successful citizens. We have successfully renovated, expanded and equipped over 400 basic education schools while 68 new schools are under renovation with this year’s grant.

“We have rebuilt, expanded and fully equipped a number of our secondary schools across the state, while many more are undergoing similar reconstruction and expansion. We have also expanded the carrying capacity of all our tertiary institutions with additional faculties and infrastructure to enable more of our youths to access tertiary education.
“Besides effectively banning the collection of all forms of levies from parents in the public-school system, we have released adequate funds through the Ministry of Education to school heads for the sustainable administration of all our public schools.”

Also speaking, Minister of Women Affairs, Pauline Tallen, praised Wike for being a promoter of Girl-Child Education. She said educating the Girl-Child would empower the family and the nation.
She called on all stakeholders to work towards educating the Girl-Child, stating that the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs would partner with the Federal Ministry of Education to promote Girl-Child Education.

Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Led By Gen Boyloaf, Gen Egberipapa, Others Passes Vote Of Confidence On NDDC Interim Management Committee

Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Led By Gen Boyloaf, Gen Egberipapa, Others Passes Vote Of Confidence On NDDC Interim Management Committee

Francis Tayor

Portharcourt___ Ex-agitators in Niger Delta yesterday passed a vote of confidence of the Interim Management Committee (IMC of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), stressing that they are credible to change the lives of the rural communities. The Ex-Militant leaders made this statement during a courtesy visit to the the IMC at NDDC headquarters, Portharcourt.

Speaking on behalf of the Ex-Militant leaders, General Victor Ebikabowei (aka Boylof) and General Jakrich Sobomabo aka (Egberipapa) said; “We the Ex-militants Leaders and people of Niger Delta region are fully in support of the Interim Management Committee of the NDDC were we have capable hands like Joi Nunieh, Managing Director, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, Executive Director Projects (EDP) and Chief Ibanga Bassey Etan Director Finance (EDF).”
“We are solidly behind them because these are the kind of persons that are credible to change the lives of the rural communities in the Niger Delta region and we are going to support u to any leanrt in order for you to succeed. We therefore at this point on behalf of the people of Niger Delta pass a vote of confidence on the Interim Management Committee of NDDC. This is because of the 100percent confidence we have have in the Committe”. They noted.

Earlier in her remarks, the MD NDDC, Dr. Joi Nunieh on behalf of the interim management committee, thanked the top Ex-militants leaders and people of Niger Delta for the confidence reposed in them, saying that they will not disappoint Niger Deltans, the Minister of Niger Delta led by Godswill Akpabio, President Muhammadu Buhari and above all God Almighty. She added that; “We thank you for your emancipation of Niger Delta region. I therefore, want you to take the massage to our people that the interim management Committe will not fail them. We are Niger Deltans and we have the same DNA flowing. Therefore we are determined to take Development to the rural areas”.

“We are not focusing on the Niger Delta cities that are already developed but to focus on the rural areas because Mr. President has said that we must take Development to the people that deserves it and we shall work with state governors to ensure success”. She noted.

Meanwhile, the Interim Management Committee of NDDC inspected some ongoing and abandoned projects in Ogoni Land and Port Harcourt yesterday in order to put efforts to complete the projects. Part of the sites visited include the NDDC permanent site in Port Harcourt which has near completion, the Mother/Child Hospital project which has been abandoned by previous Boards and the Kha/Adoni Bridge project from Kha in Ogoni to Ataba in Adoni local government area.

In a chat with journalists at the inspection, the trio, Dr. Joi Nunieh, MD, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, EDP and Chief Ibanga Bassey Etang EDF pledged to ensure that the best quality of jobs will be done in the projects, adding that the NDDC Headquarters permanent site and the Kha/Adoni Bridge Project which is one of the largest projects of the Commission will be ready for commissioning by President Muhammadu Buhari in early 2020.

IPDI Sympathizes With Paul, Simeon, Moses, Andrew, Earnest, Shedrack, Ebimaye, Others On The Demise Of Late Bowen Bebenimibo As He Is Layed To Final Rest

IPDI Sympathizes With Paul, Simeon, Moses, Andrew, Earnest, Shedrack, Ebimaye, Others On The Demise Of Late Bowen Bebenimibo As He Is Layed To Final Rest

Francis Tayor

WARRI____The leadership of Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI, has expressed its heartfelt sympathy to Paul Bebenimibo, commissioner Ijaw nationality, Desopadec, Simeon Bebenimibo, SSA on intelligent gathering, Chief Moses Bebenimibo, Andrew Bebenimibo, Ernest Bebenimibo, Shedrack Bebenimibo, Ebimaye Bebenimibo and the entire Bebenimibo family over the demise of late captain Bowen Bebenimibo as he was layed to finally rest.

They averred that the demise of late Capt Bowen Bebenimibo was a great loss considering the auspicious time and that he died at a time when his great wealth of experience is highly needed.

Speaking at press time, the acting Secretary of the group comrade Emma Keneware, said "Gbaramatu has lost a rare gem, an icon. "We mourn with them at this auspicious time of things"

The group said Bowen's death was a monumental loss to his family, Gbaramatu kingdom and Ijaw nation and that he'll be forever remembered for his enduring legacies.

They pray God almighty to give the bereaved family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss as it says farewell to the depated soul.

Just In: Senator Omo-Agege Bill Seeking For The Establishment Of Federal Polytechnic, Orogun Delta State Scales Through 2nd Reading

Just In: Senator Omo-Agege Bill Seeking For The Establishment Of Federal Polytechnic, Orogun Delta State Scales Through 2nd Reading

Francis Tayor

Abuja____ The bill titled: “A bill for an Act to Establish the Federal Polytechnic Orogun, Delta State to Provide Full-time Courses in Technology, Applied Science, Management and other Fields of Studies and to Make Provisions for the General Administration and for Related Matters, 2019 (SB.34)” is sponsored by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo- Agege, All Progressives Congress, APC, Delta Central.

In the lead Debate, Senator Omo-Agege who explained that the institution was conceived with the intent of becoming the bastion of technical academic excellence, said that the proposed polytechnic would create more admission opportunities for Nigerian youths.

According to him, the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic “will help numerous admission seekers who desire the good life in the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences, Engineering and Technology to achieve their ambitions.”

The Deputy President of the Senate disclosed that a landmass in excess of 100 hectares has been donated in the community of Orogun clan in Delta Central Senatorial District for the immediate development of academic infrastructure.

According to him, the Orogun community which is home to at least 38 active onshore oil wells is a major contributor to Nigeria’s economic strength.

Omo- Agege said,  “The absence of such an all-embracing Federal Academic Institution with statutory approval to develop a wide range of professionals is a limitation that is of serious concern to our leaders and people. It is a huge challenge affecting a great majority of our otherwise qualified tertiary education admission seekers who are often denied admissions based on quotas and ‘catchment areas.

“By establishing the Federal Polytechnic Orogun, this Senate would be creating an institution that would, amongst others, develop top quality human resource portfolios in many areas of need in both the private and public sectors; design, develop and deliver cutting edge education and training programmes for our professionals; engage in strategic research and development activities for broad national development; and take leadership roles in promoting the economic development of the immediate community and the society at large through specific education, training and outreach activities”.

Senators who spoke in favour of the bill include Senate Minority Whip, Phillip Aduda (PDP, FCT); Ibikunle Amosun (APC, Ogun Central); George Sekibo (Rivers East); Onor Ojang (PDP, Cross River Central), among others.

The President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, thereafter referred the bill to the Committee on Tertiary Institution and TETFUND, to report back in four weeks.

In his remarks, Lawan who supported the Bill said that education is an essential ingredient for a prosperous society.

“There are countries that survive without natural resources. Their people are given very functional and relevant education and that is why they can function. They can take any job, they can work anywhere and in fact, they export their people’s knowledge, capacities, and skills.

“So we have to do the same. Our system has to be functional.

“What this Bill seeks to do is to create that critical mass of our people who will be trained in this very vital sector of our economy. No amount of investment will be too much because the economies actually depend on the ability of the people that they have trained, Lawan said.

Etopo Modular Refinery Burutu In Delta State Passes EIA Test, As Federal Govt Describes Project Laudable

Etopo Modular Refinery Burutu In Delta State Passes EIA Test, As Federal Govt Describes Project Laudable

Francis Tayor

Warri____ The federal government has restated its commitment to the development and establishment of modular refineries across the country.

The Minister of Environment, Dr. Mohammad Mahmoud who disclosed this at Warri, during the public review of the Environmental Impact Assessment report on the proposed Modular Refinery at Obotebe, in Burutu Local Government Area of Delta State, however said that set standards must be met before approvals.

Represented by a Director in the ministry, Mr. Abbas Suleiman, the Environment Minister commended Etopo Refinery Plc for the initiative and at ensuring that the mandatory EIA exercise was carried out before taken any further step for the takeoff of the project.

Dr. Mahmoud noted that the project will create employment, enhanced the economic fortunes of the people, generate revenue for government at all levels, as well as reduce importation of diesel and allied refined products.



A GROUP PHOTO OF PANEL MEMBERS FOR THE PUBLIC REVIEW OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON THE PROPOSED MODULAR REFINERY IN OBOTEBE, BURUTU LGA, DELTA STATE.

FROM R-L: MISS UVIE IGINI, REPRESENTATIVE OF THE HONOURABLE COMMISSIONER MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, DELTA STATE, PROF. MOHAMMED BABAGARA,  ENGR. K. A ADENIYI, DIG. SAMUEL A.  OGUNJEMILUSI, HRM, KING EMMANUEL WAREWINI ARIKAWEI, MR. ABBAS O. SULEIMAN, REPRESENTATIVE OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER FEDERAL MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, MR. CLEMENT BIRIBAI REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CHAIRMAN OF COUNCIL BURUTU, MR. VICTOR LADELE AND BISHOP JOEL ADONYAI


“The proposed Modular Refinery is a welcome development. It falls under the Oil and Gas sector which has remained the mainstay of the Nigeria economy despite federal government frantic efforts to reduce dependence in the sector and diversifying the economy to other sectors, particularly agriculture, solid minerals and manufacturing”. Dr. Mahmoud stated.

The Chairman of the EIA panel, Mr Samuel Ogunjemilusi, said health, social and environmental hazards must be considered before approval for establishment of a modular refinery. He commended Otopo refinery plc for keeping to global best practice in that regards.

“I must thanked stakeholders for their robust participation and meaningful contributions at ensuring the smooth take off of Etopo refinery at Obotebe town in Delta State. This is the essence of the review of the Environmental Impact Assessment report. The project is laudable and I must tell you that from the report of the panel, there is no threat to its establishment “. Ogunjemilusi said.

Other members of the panel, including Prof. Mohammed Babagara, Miss Uvie Igini who represented the Commissioner for Environment Delta State, Mr. Clement Biribai, the representative of the Chairman, Burutu local government council, Mr. Victor Ladele and Engr. K. A Adeniyi, said the project will create both direct and indirect employment in the locality.

The paramount ruler of Obotebe Kingdom, King Emmanuel Warewini Arikawei said establishment of a thirty thousand tons barrel per day Modular Refinery in Obotebe, comes with enormous benefits, particularly to communities in the coastal areas of Delta State as well as generate revenues for government.

King Arikawei while commending the EIA panel team for a hitch free exercise, noted that, panel's affirmation and recommendation to the establishment of Etopo Refinery will spur the management to taking further steps to bring the project to fruition.

"I sincerely thank DIG Samuel Ogunjemilusi and his team for their professionalism in the EIA process which lasted for about a year. The completion of the hitch free exercise will spur the management to take next measures in the smooth takeoff of Etopo refinery at Obotebe. The socio economic benefits of the project can not be over emphasized and there are no doubt of it sustainability. All that is required is collaboration and support of stakeholders King Arikawei stated.”

Sen James Manager's Victory At The Appeal Court Is Affirmation Of The Peoples Will At The Poll, Says Mejuya Godswill Tamaradoubra

Sen James Manager's Victory At The Appeal Court Is Affirmation Of The Peoples Will At The Poll, Says Mejuya Godswill Tamaradoubra

Francis Tayor

In his congratulatory message to the member representing the good people of Delta South Senatorial District at the National Assembly, distinguished Sen James Ebiowou Manager, Comrade Mejuya Tamaradoubra Godswill described the appeal court ruling as an affirmation of the people’s will at the poll as expressed through their votes in the 2019 Delta South Senatorial election in the state.

Godswill, who is a ardent supporter of Manager from Ward 8 Kiagbodo, said the Appeal Court judgement on Monday in Benin is a plus to Nigeria democracy. He added that Manager is a man of the people, hence his victory does not come in a surprise.

In his words, Mejuya said; " I wishes to Congratulate distinguished Sen James Ebiowou Manager, on Monday Appeal Court ruling that reaffirmed his election victory. This ruling is an affirmation of the people’s will as expressed through their votes in the 2019 Delta South Senatorial election in the state.

A hearty congratulations to my Boss, Senator James Ebiowou Manager. A bigger congratulation to the people of Delta South Senatorial District, Comrade Mejuya stated."

Gov. Okowa's Aide, Daniel Ezekiel Congratulates Distinguished Sen James Manager, Sen Peter Nwaoboshi, Leo Ogor, Thomas Ereyitomi And Chief Afe Efe On Their Appeal Court Victory

Gov. Okowa's Aide, Daniel Ezekiel Congratulates Distinguished Sen James Manager, Sen Peter Nwaoboshi, Leo Ogor, Thomas Ereyitomi And Chief Afe Efe On Their Appeal Court Victory

Francis Tayor

The Senior Special Assistant SSA, to the Executive Governor of Delta State on Security Matters, Comrade Daniel Ezekiel has congratulated Sen James Ebiowou Manager, Sen Peter Nwaoboshi, Hon Leo Ogor, Hon Thomas Ereyitomi and Chief Afe Efe on their recent Appeal Court victory as the true winners of the 2019 National Assembly elections.

In a Press Statement released on the 5th November, 2019, Comrade Ezekiel said their victory has further justified that, PDP is Delta State and Delta is PDP. He noted that with the way the judiciary delivered it's judgement, it has rekindled hope of the masses in the system. He further stressed that, Sen James Manager and others should know that their victory is a more clarion call on them to work harder in bringing dividends of Democracy to their constituencies.

According to the Press Statement reads; " lt is with grandiose  joy in my heart that l receive the victories of these formidable PDP flag bearers. This victory has further justified the assertion l made few months ago when His Excellency, Senator Dr.Ifeanyi Okowa    floored apc candidates, chief Great Ogboru at appeal court that pdp is Delta state and Delta is pdp. The joy pervading the air across the state since the judgement hit air waves is a true reflection of  what happened at the polls. One thing apc should know is that it can not get victory through back door by hanging hope on some cooked up figures.

With the way Judiciary delivered it's judgement, it has rekindled hope of the masses in the system. Chief James Manager and others should know that the victory is a more clarion call on them to work harder in bringing dividends of democracy to their various constituencies, and to also know that the victory is for all Deltans regardless of political  affiliation. Also, l equally give a big kudos to our AMIABLE and LISTENING Governor, who piloted  the affairs of pdp to this great victory in the face of stiff opposition. I appeal to all that nobody should feel bad because there is no loser, we are all winners as one big family taking into account that the primary aim of everybody is on how to make our dear state a better place than we met it, the statement adds."

Signed:
Comrade Ezekiel Daniel,
Senior Special Assistant To The Delta State Governor On Security.

Return NDDC Chairmanship To Delta Now, Zoning It To Edo State Is Unconstitutional And Violates The NDDC Establishment ACT, Comade Austin Ozobo Tells President Buhari

Return NDDC Chairmanship To Delta Now, Zoning It To Edo State Is Unconstitutional And Violates The NDDC Establishment ACT, Comade Austin Ozobo Tells President Buhari

Francis Tayor

We reiterate that it is the turn of Delta State to produce the current Niger Delta Development commission, NDDC, Chairman and not Edo state. The appointment of Dr Pius Odubu from Edo state as the substantive Chairman of the NDDC board contravene the laws establishing the commission. The act explicitly made it clear that the position of the Chairman should be rotated among NDDC member states on alphabetic order, and going by the alphabetic order, the first chairman was produced by Abia which is Mr.Oyema Oguchukwu in 2001, followed by Akwa Ibom, Amb. Sam Edem, then Baylesa, Larry Konya and Dr, Timipa,  while Cross River produced Bassy Ewa – Henshaw appointed by President Goodluck Jonathan.

And according to the alphabetic order in the NDDC act which has been the guiding principle of the commission since its creation ,it is now the turn of alphabetic D, and alphabet D, stands for Delta State and not Edo state.

Obviously, by the analysis above it is clear that the appointment of Edo man as the current NDDC Chairman is illegal as it violates the act of the commission of year 2000, volume 4.

The appointment of Benin who do not produced a drop of oil in Edo state as chairman in NDDC board is unacceptable. It is preferable to appoint Ijaws of Edo who produced the oil to the NDDC board and not Benin who do not produced a drop of oil. It is disguesting,  an injustice need to be corrected in immediate effect.

Again, the MD of the commission is to be rotated by production quantum and currently Bayelsa produced the highest quantum of oil and not Delta. It is also expected that the MD position be zoned to Bayelsa state, and the Chairman position return back to Delta State , and the current two illegal boards; both alleged substantive and interim be dissolved and fresh board inline with the NDDC establishment act be consituted.

Besides, we see no necessity to set up an Interim Management Board to pilot the affairs of the foresic audit. It's a deliberate clog on the wheel of development in the region and to distract smooth running of the commission.

We are aware that during President Goodluck Jonathan administration there was a forensic audit in NNPC. It does not shutdown NNPC activities, and no interim management board was set up to oversee the audit.

Similar thing happened in Oando PLC, a forensic audit was carried out by Deloitte and Touche, which indicted the oil firm of various scandals and infractions that led to its suspension by Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC. This was carried out without a shutdown of activities in Oando, and was not done by an interim Management committee.
Audit is normally Carried out by government internal and external auditors. The Akpabio interim committee is set up with interior motives as it is unnecessary borthering to the government. A simple question to answer, If Akpabio does not have confidence in the substantive NDDC board to suppervise the forensic audit, what makes him to believe that Joy Gbeneh Nunieh who is a Rivers State representative in the substantive NDDC board will not compromise being appointed as chairman of the interim Management committee?

It is a fact that, the NDDC substantive Board too is faulty. With the zoning of the chairmanship to Edo state which is a violation or contravention of the NDDC establishment ACT. We want it to be corrected as well but if the authorities concerned fail to correct it ,we believe it will be corrected through various legal actions pending in the law court.

Similarly, It is Ijaws turn to produce the current Chairman of NDDC board, apart from acting capacity since the creation of the commission no Ijaw man in Delta State has been appointed as substantive chairman of NDDC board.

It is disgusting, the Uhrobo's produced the nation's deputy Senate president, the minister of labour and illegal board MD Uhrobo and Ed project , Uhrobo. It is unfair, Uhrobo's are not the only tribe or oil producing ethnic nationality in Delta State. Senator Omo_agege is turning a greedy politician, and this will affect him of his guber ambition in 2023 in Delta State.

In same vein, we want presidency to take over suppervision of  NDDC back from Niger Delta ministry led by Godswill Akpabio, a power drunked Niger Delta Minister. We have lost confidence in him,we do not believe that he has the capacity to function as Niger Delta Minister, looking at the political diversity and ethnic complexity of the region. It is glaring that NDDC will die a natural death and its purpose of creation will be defeated if allowed to be watch over by Godswill Akpabio who is desperate to farm on it.

Signed:

Comrade Ozobo Austin,
National president Ijaw People's Development Initiative, IPDI.

Senate Confirms 15 NDDC Board Nominees, Rejects Nunieh Joy Of Rivers State On Refusal To Appear Before The Panel For Screening

Senate Confirms 15 NDDC Board Nominees, Rejects Nunieh Joy Of Rivers State On Refusal To Appear Before The Panel For Screening

…confirms appointments of Tosho as Chief Judge, Kanyip as NIC President

…Holds a minute silence in honour of Jummai Tafawa Balewa, Mobolaji Johnson

Francis Tayor

Abuja_____ The Senate on Tuesday confirmed fifteen out of the sixteen nominees forwarded by President Muhammadu Buhari to the National Assembly for confirmation as board members of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The nominees confirmed by the Senate are: Dr. Pius Odubu (Edo), Chairman; Bernard Okumagba (Delta), Managing Director; Engr. Otobong Ndem (Akwa-Ibom), Executive Director (Projects); Maxwell Oko (Bayelsa), Executive Director, Finance and Admin; Jones Erue (Delta), and Chief Victor Ekhator (Edo).

Others are: Nwogu N. Nwogu (Abia), Theordore Allison (Bayelsa), Victor Antai (Akwa-Ibom), Maurice Effiwatt (Cross River), Olugbenga Edema (Ondo), Hon. Uchegbu Chidiebere Kyrian (Imo), Aisha Murtala Muhammed (Kano), Shuaibu Ardo Zubairu (Adamawa), and Ambassador Abdullahi Bage (Nasarawa).

The upper chamber however rejected the nomination of Dr. Joy Yimebe Nunieh, as nominee representing Rivers State on the board.

Chairman, Senate Committee on NDDC, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, in his presentation of the committee’s report, explained that the committee sent an invitation to the nominee twice to attend the screening exercise last week.

The lawmaker, however, told his colleagues on the floor that the nominee on both occasions refused to appear before the panel for screening.

Nwaoboshi drew the attention of the upper chamber to the three-man Interim Management Committee to oversee the affairs of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

According to him, the nominee, Dr. Joy Yimebe Nunieh is Acting Managing Director of the Interim Committee.

The committee has Dr. Cairo Ojougboh as Acting Executive Director, Projects and Chief Ibanga Bassey Etang as the Acting Executive Director, Finance and Administration.

The upper chamber, in a committee of the whole, thereafter unanimously rejected the nomination of Nunieh as nominee representing Rivers State over his refusal to appear before the NDDC panel for screening.

In his remarks, the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, while speaking on the existence of the interim committee to oversee the NDDC said, “I think there’s no ambiguity in this matter. Mr. President sent to the Senate his request for us to confirm his nominees.

“As soon as they (nominees) are confirmed, I’m sure any other structure that exists now is vitiated.

“I don’t think we have anything to worry about, because this is something that is clearly established by the law.”

Lawan tasked the Senate Committee on NDDC on the need to properly oversight the commission as soon as the new board takes over the management of the agency.

“The NDDC is a special case. We recall that the President had cause to ask for a total probe of what happened with the finances of the NDDC.

“We are supposed to continually oversight wherever public funds are put out for the development of the country,” Lawan added.

Recall that the upper chamber had last week Tuesday received a formal request from President Muhammadu Buhari for the confirmation of their appointments.

The Senate on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of Honourable Justice J.T. Tosho as the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court of Nigeria; and Hon. Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip as the President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria.

The upper chamber also on Tuesday resolved to send a delegation to condole with the families of Tafawa Balewa and Mobolaji Johnson over the death of Hajiya Jummai Tafawa Balewa and Brigadier General Mobolaji Johnson.

The decision was reached after a one minute silence was held in honour of the deceased following two motions brought to the floor by Senators Muhammad Bulkchuwa (APC, Bauchi North) and Oluremi Tinubu (APC, Lagos Central), respectively.

Hajiya Jummai Tafawa Balewa was the last surviving wife of Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Late Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa; while Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson was the first Military Governor of Lagos State from May 1967 to July 1975.

The Senate, in a motion, also urged the Federal Government to immortalise Hajiya Jummai Tafawa Balewa.

NDDC: Federal Government To Collaborate With Foreign Partners To Develop The Niger Delta Region, Says Sen Godswill Akpabio

NDDC: Federal Government To Collaborate With Foreign Partners To Develop The Niger Delta Region, Says Sen Godswill Akpabio

Francis Tayor

Abuja____ The Federal Government is to partner with African Export and Import Bank and other International Agencies that can give its funds at Zero percent or single digit for the building of major industries and factories in the Niger Delta region.

Senator Akpabio said this when the President of Ijaw Youth Council, Barr. Oweilami Pereotubo with other Ethnic Youth Leaders from the Niger Delta Region paid a courtesy call on the Minister on Tuesday November 5th, 2019, in Abuja.

According to Senator Akpabio, the partnership will create the platform for the youths to explore the opportunities in the agricultural and crude oil value chain. He added that this will create employment opportunities and also bring sustainable peace and development in the region.

The Minister called on the people who are sponsoring the youths to protest against the 3-Man Interim Committee recently inaugurated to oversee the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to toe the part of dialogue. Adding that nobody is opposed to the inauguration of the NDDC Board which has been screened by the National Assembly.

Senator Akpabio noted that the NDDC has the capacity to turn around the fortune of the Niger Delta Region. He commended the youth for bringing peace to the region and also congratulated them for their commitment and tenacity which brought about the creation of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.

Speaking further, he said that human capital development most go hand in hand with infrastructural development and called on the youth to diversify the economy
of the region, because according to him “any country or region that has failed to plan has planned to fail”.
Senator Akpabio stressed that anybody who is given the responsibility to run the region should know that blood had flowed and whoever is stealing NDDC money is stealing blood money. He pledged to work with the youths to improve and alleviate the suffering of the people in the region.

The Minister also disclosed that the Ministry is planning to consult with Stakeholders and conduct Basic Needs Assessment from State to State to find out programmes and activities required from each communities. “Working together we can make the difference, I am an agent of change, Niger Delta will not be the same.” He said.
Earlier the leader of the delegation Elder Timi Kaiser Ogouriba, said that the region had been deprived for very long time and called on anyone who has the responsibility of taking care of the region to do it properly for posterity. He implored the Minister to leave his foot prints on the sand of time.

Elder Ogouriba noted that the youths are ready to synergies with the Ministry to bring succor to the region. Adding that this will bring peace and development to the people who are major contributor to the country’s economy. He charged the Minister to relate with stakeholders so that issues that may lead to further agitation can be addressed before it escalates.

In his remark, the President of Urhobo Youth Council Worldwide, Comrade Terry Obuieh pleaded with the Minister to ignore the call for his sack from some quarters as a result of the Interim Management Committee recently inaugurated by the Federal Government to oversee the NDDC during the forensic audit. He described the Minister as a man of action who is determined to bring accountability and good governance to the people of the Niger Delta.

Comrade Obuieh added that all the youths in the region are in support of the forensic audit directed by the Federal Government.

CEPEJ 10th Annual Conference To Hold 12th Nov. 2019 At Abuja, Corruption, Insecurity Tops Discussion, As Mulade Advocates Good Living For Nigerian Citizens

CEPEJ 10th Annual Conference To Hold 12th Nov. 2019 At Abuja, Corruption, Insecurity Tops Discussion, As Mulade Advocates Good Living For Nigerian Citizens

Francis Tayor

Abuja____ The management of Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice CEPEJ, has roll out date for its 10th Annual Conference scheduled to hold on the 12th of November, 2019 at the Nigeria Air force Conference Centre, Abuja.

A statement made available to newsmen in a Press Briefing yesterday 4th November, 2019 by the CEO/National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade at CEPEJ's operational office Abuja, stated that corruption, insecurity would be the burning issues to be discussed by prominent Nigerians and United Nations representatives at the event.

Comrade Mulade stressed that government alone cannot combat corruption and insecurity to a stand still, hence it needs the collaboration of private organizations to support the effort of government to succeed. It is for this reason that CEPEJ is in collaboration with relevant stakeholders in politics, government, civil society, as well as international organizations to look at current issues, statistics and measures towards developing Africa.

According to the Press Briefing reads; "  Gentlemen of the Press, other distinguished personalities here present.
May I thank you all for your presence, it is my pleasure to welcome you to CEPEJ's operational office here in Abuja.

We are particularly delighted to see our colleagues and CEPEJ's partners from the government and international agencies here today. We have in this gathering very distinguished personalities as representatives of the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crimes, UNODC, the National Orientation Agency, NOA, as well as the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, IPCR.

CEPEJ is collaborating with these key agencies to ensure that Justice is done to the theme of this year’s annual conference, which is  “ the development implications of insecurity and corruption for Africa”.

CEPEJ is happy to hinge this year’s conference on pertinent issues affecting Africa's development in modern times. As a frontline advocacy NGO for sustainable development goals, CEPEJ will continue to champion conferences and activities that will enhance quality living for the people.

It is a common knowledge that corruption and insecurity are global challenges that require global solutions. It is for this reason that CEPEJ is in collaboration with relevant stakeholders in politics, government, civil society, as well as international organizations, to look at current issues, statistics and measures towards developing Africa.

We are aware that government is saddled with the responsibility of combating corruption and insecurity, which is  the mantra of the current administration, and we acknowledge the fact that governmant cannot do it all alone.

One thing is clear, words are not enough. Just by simply saying that we need development in our countries, communities, towns and villages will not make it happen. We need multilateral efforts more than ever before to achieve development.

This is why in line with our vision and mission as a not-for-profit NGO with limited resources, we have self-funded this conference so as to reach out to participants and facilitators who will use their expertise to highlight focused areas  and ensure that the different perspectives of the topic are captured and documented.

This will then be issued as a communiqué for use in policy reforms by all stakeholders and to serve as a benchmark for measuring growth and development. We need to be effective in asserting our values and in addressing the root causes of corruption and insecurity which include but are not limited to fear, mistrust, anxiety and anger.

Participants invited for the conference cut across students from secondary and tertiary institutions, Youth Corps members, the Nigerian military and paramilitary bodies, government and its agencies, as well as other CSOs and NGOs.

Expected keynote speakers are the Honourable Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Malami Abubakar and his counterpart from the Ministry of Interior His Excellency, Rauf Aregbesola and the lead paper will be presented by team leads from UNODC, while day two is equally loaded with speakers.

Date: 12th November 2019.
Venue: Nigeria Air force Conference Centre, Abuja.Time:10am prompt

CEPEJ will also present awards to deserving individuals and bodies selected from within Africa by an independent committee comprising academics, researchers and professionals from the different geo-political zones of Nigeria. We do believe that the selected individuals represent the change we desire to see in our systems, therefore, honouring them will take others in the direction that leads to growth and development for all.

That is why we are much more committed to this year's edition of CEPEJ's 10th annual conference, and making sure that it provides a platform for action.

It is worthy of note to mention that CEPEJ is fully committed to the implemention of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's) and in line with this CEPEJ is building bridges of Peaceful coexistence through the use of sports to promote unity between two rival ethnic groups in Delta State, the IJAWS of Warri and their ITSEKIRI neighbours in Delta State, to mark the INTERNATIONAL DAY OF TOLERANCE, on the 16th of November, 2019, at Ugborodo an itsekiri town and Benikrukru an Ijaw Community. Both communities are hosting  the second edition of this year Ijaw/Itsekiri Peace and Unity Cup football tournament from on 16th to 30th of November, 2019.

Gentlemen of the Press, I wish to pause here and allow our partners to speak briefly on the conference ahead of us as significant stakeholders."

Thank you very much for your attention.

Comrade Sheriff Mulade, CEO/National Coordinator, Center for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ.

Just In: Ijaw Women Connect Congratulates Dr. Julius Takeme With Portrait Photograph, As Takeme, Oromoni, Alubeze, Afore Charges IWC Members To Maintain Integrity And Protect The Pride Of Ijaw Women In The Society

Just In: Ijaw Women Connect Congratulates Dr. Julius Takeme With Portrait Photograph, As Takeme, Oromoni, Alubeze, Afore Charges IWC Members To Maintain Integrity And Protect The Pride Of Ijaw Women In The Society

Francis Tayor

Warri____ Members of the popular ljaw female interest advocate group under the aegis of Ijaw Women Connect (IWC) Western Zone, has congratulated the Chairman PDP Delta South Senatorial District, Chief Dr. Julius Takeme with amazing portrait photograph on his appointment as Chairman PDP Delta South to pilot the affairs of the umbrella party in the district.

The colourful buffet like making event took place yesterday Sunday 3rd November, 2019 at the Chairman's resident Okotokoto, along Urhuwhorun road in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State. The occasion attracted so many dignitaries from both the political and business class in Burutu, including the honorable member representing Burutu South in Delta State House of Assembly, Hon Pullah Ekpotuayerin, the Executive Chairman Burutu LGA, Hon Godknows Angele, the Leader of Burutu Legislative Arm, Hon Joseph Alubeze, the Chairman PDP Burutu LGA, Hon Ebike Oromoni, Dr. Sunny Afore, Barr David Otutufegha, Chief. Love Torulolo, Hon Kofi Amasuomo, Engr. Mike Akpi, Hon Solomon Gbegha, Mr. Teddy Benikurukuru, Hon Spencer Takeme, Hon Number one Alfred, Hon Ebisine and others too numerous to mentioned.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Chairperson Ijaw Women Connect (IWC) Western Zone, Comrade Mrs. Evelyn Ogilika congratulated Chief Takeme on his appointment as PDP Chairman Delta South Senatorial District, stressing that the visit was to also identify with him, as well as to invite him officially in their forthcoming Conference scheduled to hold on the 8th/9th November, 2019 in Warri.

According to Mrs Ogilika said; " Ijaw Women Connect is an advocate group with the aim of protecting the value of ljaw woman in our society. IWC was founded in 2016 at Yenagoa, and we are spread all over the world including U.S.A and UK. Our National President is Comrade Rosemary Naingba from Amasuomo Town in Southern Ijaw LGA, Bayelsa State . We sensitized our women on the need to participate in politics, as well as teach them on various skill acquisition programmes, such as soap making, bead making, fashion design etc. We have come to identify with you as a worthy son of ljaw Nation to partner with us, as well as to support our programmes, Mrs Ogilika stated."

In his response, Chief Takeme thank IWC for the visit and the honour bestowed on him. " I never expected this from you people. l will try my best to attend your forthcoming Conference, as well as support your programmes whenever the need arises. However, l charged your body to do more in the area of publicity, so as to engage more of our women in the rural areas. Also, you must be united to always protect the pride of ljaw women before the world, Chief Takeme asserted. "

Speaking from the business class, Dr Sunny Afore charges the women to maintain their integrity, noting that they should protect the ljaw cultural value, as well as the pride of ljaw women in our society. He urged them to make ljaw nation proud as the virtuous woman in the Bible.

In his piece of advice, Hon Ebike Oromoni urges lWC to be fully involved in active party politics, stressing with that, ljaw politicians would be able to attract more women into political appointment.

Also speaking is the leader of Burutu Legislative Arm, Hon Joseph Alubeze, he charges lWC to be well organized, so as the government will recognize them accordingly. He urged them to come up with women friendly bills, and that his office is always  open and ready to welcome them, Hon Joe stated.

However, climax of the occasion was the presentation of portrait photograph to the Chairman PDP Delta South Senatorial District, Chief Dr. Julius Takeme by the Chairperson IWC, Mrs Evelyn Ogilika.