Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia 

The Nasarawa State Government has promised to sustain its efforts in utilizing the lithium resources to ensure that the first electric vehicles factory in Nigeria is established in the state.

Governor Abdullahi Sule stated this at an event organised by the Abdullahi Sule Gidan-Gidan Support Group to celebrate his two years in office on Sunday in Lafia.

The state’s lithium reserves have garnered significant attention, particularly with the recent inauguration of a lithium processing factory in Nasarawa, built by Avatar New Energy Materials Company Limited. 

He said this development aligned with the Federal Government’s efforts to promote clean energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

He added that his government was determined to ensure that all mineral resources, including lithium produced in the state, were processed there before exporting or transported to other states and countries.

Sule said that despite the government efforts, it is only the first stage of lithium processing that is taking place in Nasarawa State at the moment.

In his remarks, Deputy Governor of the state, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, said that lithium had always been in the state, but it took the foresight and ingenuity of the governor to expose it to the outside world.

Akabe further stated that there is a huge quantity of lithium deposits in various Local Government Areas of the state, and the government would leverage it to attract investors.

In opening remarks, Hajiya Hussaina Sule, convener of the event and Chairperson of the Abdullahi Sule Gidan-Gidan Support Group, said that the event was to celebrate the milestone achievements of the governor in the last two years.

The convener, who incidentally is the daughter of the governor, said he has executed a lot of legacy projects across all sectors.

She listed some of the projects including flyovers and underpasses in Lafia and Akwanga LGAs and the State Secretariat complex in Lafia for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

Igbawase ukumba in Lafia 

The Nasarawa State Government has secured a $160,000 grant from the African Climate Foundation to develop a Climate Investment Platform (CIP) aimed at boosting clean energy solution to the effect of climate change.

The Managing Director of Nasarawa State Investment Development Agency (NASIDA), Mr Ibrahim Abdullahi, stated this at a stakeholders’ engagement on the CIP project on Monday in Lafia.

Abdullah said that the CIP would serve as a hub to pull together projects that would key into the state’s ambition of transitioning to cleaner energy solutions.

He said the CIP project being implemented by Murty International, would enhance climate-smart agriculture, construction and other climate-smart initiatives.

He explained that the project involved development of strategic policy documents and actions plans for emission reduction, capacity building for businesses to support climate-smart investments and guide climate action in Nasarawa State.

According to Abdullahi” Nasarawa is the first state in Nigeria to develop the CIP. The CIP is a key component of a broader strategy to position Nasarawa State as a leading destination for climate-smart investment,” he said.

Mr Sesan Adedapo, from Murty International, the implementing firm, said the project include creating a science-based climate policy and action plan for Nasarawa State.

Also speaking, Dr Adnan Aminu, the Project Consultant, said the stakeholders’ engagement was meant to gather their insight on climate investment needs, priorities and challenges across key sectors – Agriculture, Transportation, Energy, Waste management, Commerce and Industry.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has ordered for the immediate suspension of chairman and members of the Nasarawa State Teachers Service Commission (TSC) over irregularities in the recent recruitment of teachers.

Governor Sule handed down the order during a meeting in the Government House, Lafia on Monday.

The governor equally directed the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State to constitute a three-man committee to investigate the activities of the TSC with a view to getting to the root of the matter.

He disclosed that he gave approval for the recruitment of only 1000 teachers but information teaching him showed that the TSC went on its own to recruit over 1000 additional teachers.

The governor expressed concern that his name is being scandalized allegedly for refusing to pay teachers that he purportedly recruited.

He expressed disappointment that even with a provision of 50 slots set aside for contingencies out of the 1000 approved, the TSC still went overboard to illegally recruit more than 1000 teachers.

His words: “I remember, out of the 1000 that you received approval there is 50 for this kind of situation. But to go and recruit 750 and up till this moment some of the schools in the villages are still having 2 or 3 teachers?

“The information that we are getting is that all these teachers want to remain in the city. They don’t want to go those other places. And then it’s my name that is being scandalized that I have refused to pay teachers鈥� salaries?

“We are getting all sorts of information that some people collected money to offer teaching appointments. This is the most terrible thing I have heard. We have no other choice than to suspend the entire TSC and then put up a committee to investigate them.

鈥淧ut up a committee of three to investigate them. Suspend them until we are able to get the true situation of things.”

The governor warned that if anybody collected money for employment, those who gave the money should go to court.

“If anybody has collected their money, or anything, they can take them to court. I don’t think this is good. I don’t think this is fair. It is unfair to me. I have my name scandalized on something that I have no knowledge of,” he said.

In an opening remark, Nasarawa State Commissioner of Education, Dr. John Mamman, recounted that Governor Sule gave approval for the recruitment of only 1000 teachers, in addition to regularizing the appointment of those he met on ground.

“The exercise was done and ended up around April. We had the interviews and all the processes; the documentation and posting were done. You will also recall the last Executive Council discussion where you determined to know the number of teachers employed and the financial implications which stood at about N48 million per month.

“In a year, it will cost the government N576m to pay the 1000 newly recruited teachers. While you were leaving you directed at the Exco that the Acting Governor should make all necessary arrangements to pay these teachers. They have been paid,” he said.

The Commissioner however showed concern that the ministry continued to receive calls about non-payment of other teachers.

“But just a few days ago, we keep receiving calls of non-payment of others. But I am confident and I am sure, that the 1000 that you recruited have already been paid. We said there is the need for us to meet the TSC to fine tune and know where these calls are coming from.

“Because the news going out there is that His Excellency has refused to pay the teachers that he has recruited. I don’t think it is right. I think we need to hear from the TSC,” he added.

In their submissions during the meeting both the Chairman of the TSC, Mohammed Abubakar Gada and his secretary, Labaran Shafa contradicted each other, with the suspended chairman claiming that 750 additional teachers were absorbed to fill the vacuum created by the exit of about 300 teachers who left for other employments.

Shafa on his part, said over 1000 additional teachers were recruited by the TSC.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has abolished the joint account system between the state government and the 13 Local Government Areas in the state.
Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the governor on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, disclosed this at a press conference yesterday in Lafia.
Ahemba explained that the action complied with the decision of the Supreme Court on the autonomy of the area Councils in the country.
He further said the administration of Governor Sule was law-abiding and had decided to grant full autonomy to Local Government Areas in the state to enable them to achieve their full potential.
“The governor is one of the accountable and transparent administrators in the country who believes in the rule of law and has nothing to hide,” he added.
On the implementation of the new minimum wage, the governor’s aide said that the state government was willing to implement the N70,000 minimum wage.
“You could recall that the governor wanted to implement the new wage since August with the arrears of three months. But the organised labour preferred the implementation of their promotions first, and the governor agreed with their request.
“The state government is ready to begin a discussion on the new minimum wage now that the promotion was successfully implemented and the template was released by the federal government,” he added.

He, therefore, assured that the state government would continue to prioritise the welfare of the citizens through the provision of quality infrastructure and investment in the agricultural sector to address hunger and poverty. 

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The federal government has lauded the World Bank for its contribution towards Women’s Economic Empowerment in Nigeria.

The Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Vitalis Obi, gave the commendation at the 2024 Joint Planning Board (JPB), and National Council on Development Planning (NCDP) meeting held in Lafia, the Nasarawa state capital.

He maintained that gender inclusive planning would improve the nation’s economic growth, noting that this would go a long way in smile operating poverty and social well being of women across the nation.

Obi averred that improving women’s access to finance through digital tools, creating gender-responsive policy interventions where both men and women would contribute to decision-making processes would yields more resilient and prosperous societies.

While acknowledging Economic Planning as a catalyst to prosperity for all citizens, he said gender plays a crucial role in shaping economic outcome.

The federal permanent secretary noted that gender innovations in economic planning will integrate gender-responsive approach into the budgeting processes, policy frameworks and development strategies.

On his part, the Development Research and Project Centre (dRPC) Director, Dr Plangsat Dayil, called on policymakers to effectively integrate gender-specific data and evidence into their economic planning processes.

According to her, “Collection and analyze gender-specific data that provides insights into women’s participation in the economy, their needs, challenges, and opportunities.”

Speaking, he Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning for Anambra State, Chiamaka Nnake, identified economic, social, and cultural norms policies as major factors responsible for marginalization of women participation in politics thereby causing disparity in the society.

The Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning in Benue state, prof Jerome Andohol, emphasised the need to leverage on some of the interventions that were forwarded by the World Bank and some other supporting agencies

Tijani: Africa Must See Global Inflation, Environmental Crises as Opportunities

Agnes Ekebuike

Nigeria鈥檚 Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has emphasised the need for Africans to see global challenges in the areas of inflation, environmental crises and geopolitical tensions as opportunities to grow the African economy.

The minister who said this while presenting his keynote address during the RMB Nigeria Think Summit in Lagos, highlighted the various global challenges, such as inflation, environmental crises, and geopolitical tensions, but framed them as opportunities for Africa to rise to the top. He stressed the importance of leveraging Africa鈥檚 youthful population by prioritising digital skills and up-skilling efforts to make the continent competitive on the global stage.

“We must realise that the future workforce lies in Africa, but it鈥檚 essential to ensure that our people have the digital skill set required to thrive. Many countries are aging, and Africa’s youthful population presents a unique opportunity to fill that gap,” Tijani said.

He added that technology and connectivity would be pivotal in ensuring that Africa remains productive and competitive, emphasising the ongoing investments in fiber optic infrastructure to boost digital access.

Tijani stressed the need for leadership as a critical take-away from the summit, and urged both public and private sectors to assume responsibility in driving change, noting that leadership extends beyond political offices and must be a focus in all sectors of society.

The RMB Nigeria Think Summit 2024, themed: 鈥淔uture Reimagined,鈥� brought together industry leaders and key stakeholders to explore the future of business, technology, and society. The event, which originated in South Africa in 2011, has now expanded its reach to Nigeria and West Africa, providing a platform for critical conversations about how the continent can position itself in a rapidly changing world.

CEO of RMB Nigeria, Bayo Ajayi, spoke on the significance of the theme, emphasising that the summit goes beyond financial matters to cover broader societal challenges. He noted that 鈥榯hinking鈥� about the future is crucial as globalization and disruptions in various sectors reshape the world. Ajayi urged attendees to reflect on how they can adapt to these changes and position themselves for success.

鈥淲ith everything happening globally, it’s important not just to think about the present but to start preparing for the future. Whether in business or personal growth, it’s crucial to remain relevant by making small, meaningful changes today that will impact tomorrow,” Ajayi stated.

He underscored the importance of not only financial institutions but also diverse sectors contributing to shaping a future-ready society.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commissions (NASIEC) yesterday rescheduled the Nasarawa State Local Government Councils Elections across the 13 local government areas of the state for November 2, 2024.
An Originating Summons by the Federal High Court, Lafia had compelled NASIEC to postpone indefinitely all activities leading to the conduct of the state councils elections earlier scheduled for August 31, 2024.
However, the commission had conducted the last Local Government Councils Elections on October 6, 2021 and the present council officials were sworn-in on October 8, 2021 for a tenure of three years which will end on Monday October 7, 2024.
Consequently at a press briefing in Lafia, Chairman of the commission, Ayuba Wandai Usman, announced November 2, 2024 as the rescheduled date for the Nasarawa State Local Government Councils Elections.
He said the chairmanship and councilorship elections would be held on Saturday 2nd November, 2024.
According to him, “The place of delivery of nomination papers for the elective offices would be at the commission’s headquarters in Lafia, adding that a timeline of activities of the elections has been released.
He appealed to l citizens of the state to support the commission in the discharge of its statutory mandate by coming out enmasse to participate in the forthcoming LGA elections and conducting themselves lawfully, responsibly and orderly.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday said the agency saddled with the responsibilities of conducting Local Government Election in the state would roll-out activities for the council poll next week.

The governor made the disclosure through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Peter Ahemba, during an interactive session with journalists in Lafia.

On October 5, 2022 the Nasarawa State Independent Electoral Commission (NASIEC) had conducted council election in the state and the tenure of current chairmen will end on October 5, 2024.

However, Governor Sule said that the delaying on the conduct of an election in the state was as a result of a court order restraining the process.

According to the governor, “as you all aware recently machineries was put in place to conduct council election, but there was a court order that halted the process.

“I can inform you authoritatively that the court issue has been addressed, government is now ready to conduct the local government election.

“Next month, the agency saddle with the responsibilities of conducting council election will roll-out activities on the election guidelines,” the SSA said.

He assured of a level playing ground and not to interfere in the affairs of the agency saddle with the responsibilities on the forthcoming local government election in the state.

Speaking on state police, the governor explained that if necessary legislative process has been done, the Nasarawa State Government would take its position on that.

The governor also cleared the air on the Nasarawa State Organised Labour’s position on the New National Minimum Wage; explaining that the Labour Union in their wisdom advised him to address the issue of outstanding promotion and backlog of arrears in the state and delay the implementation of the New Nationtal Minimum Wage.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

A Malaysian university, Lincoln University Malaysia, said it has offered 80 per cent scholarships to 2,500 indigent students in Nigeria.

The founder of the university, Prof. Amiya Bhaumik, revealed this during the matriculation ceremony for 500 students at the Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK) Campus of the institution in Keffi at the weekend.

He said the gesture was part of the university鈥檚 mission to cater to Nigeria’s growing demand for international-standard education.

While sharing the institution鈥檚 vision to expand access to world-class education, the founder emphasised that the scholarship initiative would allow prospective students to pay tuition fees nearly equivalent to those of government-owned institutions in Nigeria.

The Pro-Chancellor of the Lincoln University, Prof. Bibi Florina, highlighted the university鈥檚 commitment to nurturing future leaders across the world.

She also underscored the significance of the Lincoln and NSUK strategic partnership.

Addressing journalists shortly after the occasion, Vice-Chancellor of (NSUK), Prof. Sa’adatu Hassan Liman, expressed delight over NSUK being the first Nigerian university to host an international university on its campus. 

鈥淭his partnership will set a new standard for higher education in Nigeria. We are delighted to be a part of this historic moment and are committed to maintaining a high academic standard for our students,” she maintained.

The Head of Public Affairs for the Lincoln University, NSUK Campus, Mr. Kichime Gotau, emphasised that the scholarship initiative would bridge the gap between the privileged and the less privileged.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Awe Local Government Concerned Group yesterday urged the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdulkahi Sule, to reconsider any form of endorsement for the forth coming Nasarawa State Local Government election.

The Awe Concerned Group鈥檚 demand to Governor Sule is coming at the heels of reports in the social media that the governor has endorsed one Hon. Sani Musa as candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Awe Local Government Area in the forth coming Nasarawa State council poll.

Consequently, at a press conference in Lafia, leader of the Awe Local Government Concerned Group, Mahmud Awe, urged Governor Sule to reconsider any form of endorsement, should it have been made.

He therefore, pointed out that several credible and dedicated individuals from Awe Local Government of the state had worked diligently for the success of the APC and Governor Sule during his re-election campaign in 2023.

鈥淲e have full confidence in the transparent leadership of Governor Abdullahi Sule. We trust he is committed to allowing either a consensus or a primary election to produce a candidate who embodies the values and aspirations of the people,鈥� Mahmud stated.

He further expressed belief that Governor Sule鈥檚 leadership, known for promoting transparency and fairness, would ensure that the candidate chosen for Awe Local Government reflects the will of the people.

鈥淲e believe Governor Sule will prioritise the people鈥檚 choice, ensuring that leadership in Awe Local Government aligns with his goals of development and progress as he works towards completing his tenure in 2027,鈥� Mahmoud maintained.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdulkahi Sule, has inaugurated steering and technical committees for the Framework for Responsible Investment in Land-Intensive Agriculture (FRILIA) to attract large-scale agricultural investments into the state.

Sule inaugurated the two committees during a ceremony in the Government House, Lafia.

According to him, “with agriculture playing a pivotal role in the economic development of the state, full implementation of FRILIA would not only attract large-scale private agricultural investments, but also ensure shared benefits for both investors and host communities.

“The FRILIA will increase Nasarawa State鈥檚 attractiveness for private investment and minimize potential conflicts between communities and investors, as well as the herder/farmer conflict in the state.”

He assured that his administration will continue to support businesses in the agribusiness sector, especially since it provides much needed food and wealth for the people.

This was just as the governor hinted that commercial agribusinesses in the country are now resorting to backward integration as a result of challenges of foreign exchange. 

He said most of these commercial agribusinesses are seeking to expand their local businesses thereby creating more demands for fertile land.

He disclosed that another 60,000 tones per year rice mill would be established in the Akunza area, with the company already expressing interest to acquire land for the cultivation of rice in Assakio and Doma.

Speaking, Chairman of the Steering Committee and Deputy Governor of the State, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, thanked his principal for finding them worthy of appointments into the committees.

Akabe noted that for any nation to fight poverty and hunger, attention must be given to agriculture, hence pledging that they were going to work assidously to ensure that the objectives of FRILIA were achieved.

Earlier, Chairman of the Technical Committee and Managing Director/CEO of Nasarawa State Investment Development Agency (NASIDA), Ibrahim Abdullahi, said the inauguration of the two committees was a critical step towards meeting the state’s requirements for participation in SABER for 2024.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday asked heads of security operatives in the state to tell him what they need to secure the state against criminal activities.

The governor charged the heads of security operatives to furnish him with what they needed during a security meeting he had with them in the Government House in Lafia.

He said: 鈥淭ell me what you need, and I shall provide them so that we can secure our people and their property. Unfortunately, some of the criminal activities we only hear of in distant places are creeping into our state capital. We cannot afford to be complacent.鈥�

Governor Sule noted with concern cases of security breaches in some parts of the state with an assurance to redouble efforts in tackling the menace.

Sule added: 鈥淚n addition to all we have done, tell me what you need and we shall provide them so that we can secure our people.

鈥淩ecent unfortunate incidences in Lafia and other places in the state cannot be allowed to continue. We cannot afford to be complacent but intensify efforts and collaboration to safeguard our people.鈥�

He, therefore, told the security heads that no expenses were too much when it comes to providing security for the people.

The governor, however, called on the people and stakeholders in Nasarawa State to support the proactive measures being put in place to rid the state of crime.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has sought the intervention of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, towards resolving the lingering crisis engulfing the party in Benue State.

Governor Sule, who is the chairman of the North Central Governors鈥� Forum, made this appeal when he visited the national secretariat of the party in Abuja at the weekend.

According to him, 鈥淚n my capacity as chairman of the APC Governors鈥� Forum in the zone, I deem it necessary to seek the intervention of the father of the party in order to put to rest the lingering crisis in the party in Benue State.

鈥淚n the North Central, we have a state where there are issues here and there. We have plenty discussions on that and we want the national chairman to also intervene, as well as the National Working Committee to intervene in order for us to resolve those issues.

鈥淣orth Central has five out of six APC governors. For that reason, we need to strengthen our zone. We cannot afford to have any kind of disagreement in our zone.鈥�

Governor Sule expressed his conviction that Ganduje, a former deputy governor and former governor has the pedigree to resolve the Benue State APC impasse.

鈥淚 have no doubt that if there is any gentleman that can work to resolve that matter is no other than Ganduje, a former deputy governor and former governor. For that reason, I came to pay my respect to the father of the party and the NWC,鈥� he added.

Sule said he was also at the national secretariat of the party to pay respect to the national chairman, who he said deserves respect and cooperation, especially as the APC gears towards participating in the scheduled governorship election in Edo State.

鈥淚n the next couple of weeks, we have an election in Edo State. The man does not need to be distracted in any other way so that we can go and win our election in Edo. That is one of the reasons why I came to encourage him to be focused,鈥� he stated.

Governor Sule used the opportunity of the visit to call on his APC colleague governors to endeavour to pay regular visits to the national secretariat of the party in order not to be seen as visitors in a house they all worked hard to build.

In his response, the APC National Chairman, Ganduje, appreciated Governor Sule for the visit, especially that there were controversies in the party in Benue State.

Ganduje said he wanted the APC to be a strong institution that would back the ruling government, as well as an institution that would ensure internal democracy.

He, however, warned that with him in charge at the helm of affairs of the party, it was no longer business as usual.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has disclosed that Nasarawa State has joined the league of states earning over N1 billion monthly in the federation account accruing from solid minerals royalties.

The minister disclosed this at the weekend when he led a delegation of the National Council of Mining and Solid Minerals Development for a courtesy call on Governor Abdullahi Sule in the Government House, Lafia.

The National Council of the Mining and Solid Minerals Development was in Nasarawa State to intimate Governor Sule on its forth coming 6th national council summit scheduled to hold in Lafia.

Represented by the Director-General of the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office, Obadiah Nkom, Alake maintained that Governor Sule’s contribution in the Renewed Hope Agenda in the minerals sector could not be over emphasised.

He said: “Nasarawa State is an investment heaven for solid minerals and other businesses to thrive, because of the business enabling climate of Governor Sule’s administration’s policies and programmes.

“One other results as evidenced in Nasarawa State is that the state is joining the league of states earning about N1 billion in the federation account accruing from solid minerals royalties”.

In a remark, Governor Sule thanked the Minister of Solid Minerals Development for his willingness to work with the various states.
“Today you have brought in a new dimension to the partnership between the various states, communities where these minerals are sited and the ministry. This is what we have been looking for.

“Anytime there is this coloration, the partnership between the communities, the states and the ministry, then there will be peace and the way forward”, Sule said.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has said that currently Nigeria consumed about 1.4 to 1.6 metric tonnes of sugar, with 96 per cent imported as raw sugar from Brazil.

The governor added that the 96% imported as raw sugar from Brazil was then refined in the country’s three sugar refineries owned by Dangote, BUA and Golden Penny.

Sule made this known when he hosted a delegation led by the Country Director, International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Mrs. Dede Ekoue, in the Government House, Lafia.

He said: “Today, Nigeria consumes roughly about 1.4 to 1.6 metric tonnes of sugar. This quantity of sugar, about 96% is imported as raw sugar from Brazil and refined at our three refineries that we have owned by Dangote, BUA and Golden Penny.

His words: “Assuming we are going to do the entire value chain in sugarcane in Nigeria for this 1.6m metric tonnes, you will create employment opportunities for nothing less than 500,000 people”.

The governor, therefore, made a case for the inclusion of sugarcane in the value chain initiative of the iFAD/FG Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP), stressing that such a move would stop importation of raw sugar from Brazil.

The Country Director of IFAD, Dede Ekoue, particularly appreciated Governor Sule for the prompt payment of the counterpart funds for the programme.

According to IFAD: “We know that we attached more than 4,300 farmers. It is not only about producing raw products. It’s also about processing. We have been privileged to visit the processing centre and it is also about ensuring that we promote agriculture in a way that is also sustainable.鈥�

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State House of Assembly yesterday raised the alarm over high rate of kidnapping in communities across the state.

Consequently, the House directed the chairmen of the 13 local government areas of the state to collaborate with traditional rulers and security agencies  to  convene a security summit with the aim  of finding  lasting solutions to the menace.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Danladi Jatau, gave the directive  while reading the House resolution on a matter of Public Interest raised by the Deputy Speaker, Muhammad Adamu Oyanki, on the growing rate of kidnapping in the state, during the House proceedings in Lafia.

鈥淎ll local government chairmen should collaborate with traditional rulers and security agencies in their domain to summon a security summit within two weeks to find lasting solutions to the issue of kidnapping in the state,

鈥淭he kidnapping law passed by the Nasarawa State House of Assembly should be strictly obeyed and anyone found wanting be dealt with according to the law,鈥� the speaker insisted.

He also called on the people of the state to join hands with the security agents in tackling kidnapping and other forms of criminal acts in the state by helping  security agencies with useful information that will curtail crimes in the state.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

A Chinese firm, Nizhong Mining Company, yesterday indicated interest in investing $50million in tin exploitation and processing in Agwada, Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The Chairman of Nizhong Mining Company, Mr. He-Ruchui, discussed this when he led the management of the firm on a courtesy visit to the state Governor, Abdullahi Sule, at the Government House in Lafia.

The company鈥檚 chairman told Governor Sule that Nizhong Mining Company would explore and be involved in the exploitation of other solid minerals such as Lithium in the Agwada area.

He added that they have secured their cadastral licence as well as consent letter from the federal government and the host community to that effect.

The chairman of the Nizhong Mining Company equally declared the donation of1,200 bags of rice to the state government for onward distribution to community members.

He stated that their company was ready to roll out different social responsibility programmes in education and healthcare facilities and services that have direct benefits to the people as they take off exploitation of minerals in the state.

In his response, Governor Sule appreciated the management of Nizhong Mining Company for the visit and for acquainting him with their investment plans as well as what they intend to do in the area of cooperate social responsibility.

The governor enjoined the management team to seek audience with the state Commissioner of Environment and National Resources to work out necessary modalities that would make their mining processes easy in conformity with extant laws of the land.

He assured them that in as much as they would work according to the state government stipulations on CSR and land reclamation policies, they will not have problem doing business in the state.

Sule equally thanked the company for the donation of 1,200 bags of rice and assured them that soon the state government would be distributing rice across the state and that the one they donated would be taking to the catchment villages around their mining site in Agwada so that the communities would feel their presence positively.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Youths in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, have shunned the ongoing nationwide protest on the hardship being faced by citizens of the country.

When 糖心视频 went round Lafia, which is also the headquarters of the Lafia Local Government Area of the state on Thursday, it observed that the Makurdi/Jos and Shandam roads leading to the Government House, Lafia were deserted as security operatives were seen stationed at flash points to control any possible breakdown of law and order in the areas.

Also, residents were seen going about their lawful businesses without any form of harassment.

Other areas visited by 糖心视频 in Lafia included the UAC, Kwandere, and Makurdi roads.

At these locations, youths, market men and women were seen going about their lawful businesses in a peaceful manner without any hindrance or molestation from security operatives in the state.

糖心视频 further gathered that the situation was generally peaceful across the 13 local government areas of the state as there were no form of violence or signs of destruction of government properties.

However, it was observed that some shop owners put their shops under lock and key probably for fear of being attacked by the protesters.

The Nasarawa State Commissioner of Police, Umar Nadada, was seen in a convoy going round the state capital alongside other security agencies to ensure that there was no form of violence, infringement on any citizen’s rights, and destruction of properties in the state.

Also, security personnel have been mobilised to protect the Correctional Centre (Prison) in Lafia to prevent any disruption or unforeseen circumstances during the demonstration period.

In an interview with two residents of Lafia LGA, Ibrahim Isa and Daniel Emmanuel, both appealed to the federal and state governments to do the needful and urgently address the economic hardship being faced by the citizens.

Igbawase Ukumba writes that the Nasarawa Technology Village is a fusion of technology and affordable housing; comprising housing estate and a technology hub facilitated by the Nasarawa Investment and Development Agency (NASIDA)

In January, 2022, an indigenous firm, ABS Blueprint Consortium, commenced the building of a N30 billion Nasarawa Technology Village, located at Aso Pada in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. The Nasarawa Technology Village project comprises 1,962 housing units estate, a technology hub and other facilities.

The Technology Village is being executed in collaboration between the indigenous ABS Blueprint Consortium firm and the Nasarawa State government, under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement. 

Performing the ground breaking for the project, the Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, said the Technology Village was in line with his administration’s development roadmap in the area of housing, technology, employment and industrialisation.

The governor expressed delight with the project been executed by the indigenous consortium, saying it was in line with his administration’s vision of development of the people and the state. He explained that the project was fully funded by the private partners in the consortium.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of the ABS Blueprint Consultium, Mohammed Yamusa, explained that the 1,967 Technology Village would comprise 668 units of two bedroom flats, 558 units of two bedroom flats, 376 units of two bedroom bungalows as well as 360 units of three bedroom bungalows.

According to Yamusa, “the village will have a technology hub with offices for local and international IT companies for the training of more than 2,000 students annually as software engineers, who will be helped to outsource jobs globally that can earn them as high as $3,000 monthly. Other features of the technology hub include ICT campus with shared virtual workspaces and an estate-wide Broadband coverage through fibre optic cabling.”

The ABS Consultium MD, however, added that the village would also have 5MW independent gas power plant, primary and secondary school, health clinic, fire station, police post, shopping centre, among others. The Managing Director explained further that the housing component of the project alone was to gulp N22 billion, while the other features, including the independent power plant, would gulp about N8 billion.

Interestingly, the collaboration between the indigenous ABS Blueprint Consortium firm and the Nasarawa State government, under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement to build the Nasarawa Technology Village, has started yielding results. This could be attested by the official inauguration of phase 1 of the NTV Housing Estates, flagging off of Phase 2 and groundbreaking of the Technology Hub, in Aso Pada, Karu Local Government Area of the state on March 11, 2024.

Consequently, the Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, Inaugurated the 100 Housing Units making the first phase of the Nasarawa Technology Village (NTV). Zulum also laid foundation for the second phase of a project which comprises the construction of a Technology Incubation Hub and 370 Housing Units.

Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion, the Borno State governor commended the initiative which he tagged as 鈥榤onumental鈥�. He maintained that the Nasarawa Technology Village Project holds great promise as it will help the state leverage its abundant mineral resources to fuel innovation and technological advancements.

Zulum added that Nasarawa state has the human capacity to transform into a technology hub, and urged the state to collaborate with the National Agency for Science Engineering Infrastructure and other relevant institutions to turn the state鈥檚 resources into technological products that will lead to job creation for the youthful populace.

Perhaps, rhe initiative of the project was to enhance economic growth, attract investment, jobs creation and tackle poverty in Nasarawa State. This could be attested in the administration of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s commitment in providing accessible and affordable housing and other projects to the people of the state and other Nigerians.

Sule confirmed this at the inauguration of the first phase of the Nasarawa Technology Village, stating that his administration was committed to the development of technology, adding that digital economy was the way to go.

He said the idea of the NTV came to him while still working at the Dangote Group, having visited the Silicon Valley in the United States, noting that the event symbolises the steadfast and commitment of his administration to the prosperity of Nasarawa State.

“The NTV stands as a cornerstone of our development strategy to capitalise on the opportunity presented by the digital revolution. It presents a significant leap, hope in unlocking our state鈥檚 potentials and constructing a self-sufficient economy that rewards diligence, safeguarding the vulnerable and compete on the global stage. 

“We are determined not only to keep pace with the technological advancement, but also to lead the charge in building a dynamic knowledge economy that empowers our citizens that will position Nasarawa State as a regional power house,” the governor stated.

Governor Sule identified infrastructural development, urban housing, and sustainable housing development as part of his administration’s five game changers opportunities with the ability to catalyze advancement, economic growth, as well as attract wealth and investment.

“I have seen it, I have touched it, I have experienced it. Today, the digital economy is the way to go, not mineral deposits. Knowledge is the way to go, and Nasarawa State has both. With our proximity to the Federal Capital, we must use both to achieve our goals,” he added.

The governor extended his appreciation to all the partners involved in the project for their dedication and foresight to support his administration development agenda. He particularly commended ABS Consortium, Modern Shelter, Shelter Afrique, InfraCredit Quarantee Company, Family Home, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), as well as other stakeholders for supporting the NTV project and making it a reality.

“Once more, let me show great appreciation to my brother, the Governor of Borno State, who is one of the most busiest governors that we have, yet he has been able to honour this invitation. We invited Zulum to commission the project because we believe these are the kinds of projects we see him commissioning every day in Borno State.  

“We are happy to announce that the First Phase of the NTV is named after his predecessor, our dear Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima. The major road leading to the estate is named after Professor Zulum,” Sule declared.

For the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, the commissioning of the NTV was not only brilliant and timely intervention, but that it would catalyze sustainable development in Nasarawa State and the FCT.

“The project shows clear vision and demonstrates the belief in the power of education and investment, and that human capital development of citizens is the foundation for sustainable development,” the minister maintained.

On his part, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Federal Mortgage Bank, Shehu Osidi, disclosed that through robust collaboration with the Nasarawa State Government, FMBN has financed a total of 11 housing projects in Nasarawa State, some of which have been fully completed.

Osidi added that a total of 7, 886 indigenes of the state benefitted from the bank’s home renovation loan, with Governor Sule within the next couple of weeks, also commissioning 150 Housing Units been developed by a private company funded by the bank at the Peninsula Hills City.

The Managing Director of the Nasarawa Investment and Development Agency (NASIDA), Ibrahim Abdullahi, said the project, which portrayed the success of Public-private Partnerships in Nigeria, will bridge the housing deficit of the state by leveraging private sector capital and expertise.

Earlier, Chairman of Karu Local Government Area of the state, Janes Thomas, appreciated Governor Sule for initiating the project in the area considering the benefits of the project to the area and the country at large. The council chairmen, therefore, assured the Nasarawa State Governor of their support to succeed.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Major companies and investors in India have indicated interests in taking their businesses to Nasarawa state as Governor Abdullahi Sule commenced a three-day working visit to India.

This was contained in a statement issued to journalists yesterday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Nasarawa State governor, Ibrahim Addra.

The statement said during two engagements shortly after arriving the commercial city of Mumbai, Governor Sule met with representatives of Rites Limited, a global giant in infrastructure development, transport and manufacturing as well as a consortium of investors.

鈥淥n the cards for discussion between Governor Sule and officials of the company is the planned Keffi-Abuja Rail System, which is an important project with great potentials that the governor鈥檚 administration is serious about.

鈥淎bdullahi Sule is in Mumbai on the invitation of a company that specialises in tractor and agricultural production. 

The visit is in continuation of his administration鈥檚 efforts at mechanising agricultural practice in Nasarawa, as well boosting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu鈥檚 food security initiatives,鈥� the statement noted.

According to the  statement, during the visit, the governor would engage his hosts on the prospects of acquiring more tractors for farmers in the state, as well as silos development to cut post-harvest loses and harvesters.

鈥淲e are eager to quickly mechanise and deploy technology in our agricultural practices. We want to boost food production and complement the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu鈥檚 initiatives,鈥� the statement said.

At another meeting that brought together investors, diplomats and the business community under one roof, Sule was said to have shared his dreams for Nasarawa while highlighting the opportunities that abound and the prevailing ease of doing business environment in the state.

鈥淎reas of interest that came up for discussion include: Pharmaceuticals, Oil and Gas, Textile, Education, Infrastructure, Health and Agriculture in Nasarawa State and the country at large,鈥� the statement concluded.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, yesterday flagged off the distribution of the federal government free fertilizers to farmers in the State.

The free fertilizers were part of the federal government’s commitment towards ensuring the success of its food security initiative in Nigeria.

Supervising the commencement of distribution of free fertilizers made up of NPK and Urea products to the 13 Local Government Areas of the state in Awe, headquarters of Awe Local Government Area, Sule said the distribution would spread to other council areas of the State.

According to the governor, “the fertilizers were provided to the farmers in the State at no cost by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.鈥�

The governor, however, added that Nasarawa State government only paid the costs of transportation and other charges from various locations in the country to the LGAs to be distributed to the farmers.

鈥淭he 147 wards of the State will receive not less than 16,000 bags while other farmers’ associations, disability groups, religious groups, traditional institutions will also benefit from the free fertilizers provided by the Tinubu government to boost food production in the State,” he added.

He announced that other LGAs would receive their share of the commodity within one week.

This was even as he warned that beneficiaries must be farmers, irrespective of political, ethnic or religious affiliation, warning against the sale of the commodity.

To see to it that farmers take advantage of the gesture for a bumper harvest and enhanced food security, the governor tasked stakeholders to ensure that only genuine farmers benefit.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Etsu Karu and Chairman Karu Local Government Area Traditional Council in Nasarawa State, Luka Panya Baba, yesterday appealed to Nigerians to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed.

The monarch made the appeal while speaking during the 20th anniversary of his throne in Karu, the headquarters of Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, noting the pride that the Tinubu government will continue to foster on environmental growth in Nigeria.

The Etsu Karu, therefore, gave the assurance that his reign as the paramount ruler of Karu will continue to collaborate with other traditional rulers in the country towards ensuring peace and unity of Nasarawa State and Nigeria.

According to him, 鈥淔or two decades, I have the privilege of serving Karu people as a leader, and together, we have achieved great things. Our journey has been guided by a commitment to fostering peace and unity among ourselves.

鈥淥ur gathering here today is to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the history of Karu Chiefdom. This occasion provides us the opportunity to reflect on our past, celebrate the present and look forward with hope and faith.鈥�

Appreciating the great role played by the Chiefdom, Baba also lauded the past administrations in the state and the administration of the incumbent Governor Abdullahi Sule in ensuring that peace and unity remain a cardinal agenda in Nasarawa State.

. Clamps down on illegal mining companies

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Governor, Mr. Abdullahi Sule, yesterday directed for the immediate payment of the annual medical allowances for the Year 2024 to traditional rulers across the state.

This is just as state government has commenced a clampdown on illegal mining companies who are putting the safety of the state in danger. The governor gave the directive when he hosted members of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs, led by its Deputy Chairman and Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa lll, in the Government House, Lafia.

According to the governor, 鈥渢hough he will not be around to handle the matter but he directed that the Deputy Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, will work alongside the State Accountant-General, Mr. Musa Muhammad, to immediately facilitate the payment of the medical allowances.

鈥淚 want you to work it and pay them today. Because we have no excuse whatsoever not to pay them. The deputy governor will work with the Accountant-General and pay that immediately.鈥�

 He called on the traditional rulers to be wary of individuals who may seek to exploit the prevailing economic challenges to foster a state of insecurity, especially in mining areas.

 The governor warned that the influx of illegal miners into the state could pose a serious security threat if not checked.

 鈥淭here is nothing that is an attraction to insecurity than mining, because it is the easiest for people to make money,鈥� he said.

 He called on the royal fathers to desist from arbitrary issuance of consent letters to people who might not have the overall interest of the state, but would want to cause security breaches in order to illegally exploit the mineral resources of the state.

 Earlier, the Deputy Chairman of the Nasarawa State Council of Chiefs and Emir of Keffi, Dr. Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, who stood on behalf of the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage Muhammad (rtd), said that they were at the Governor House as part of the Sallah tradition of paying homage.

Meanwhile, the Nasarawa State Government has commenced a clampdown on illegal mining companies who are putting the safety of the state in danger.

 The state鈥檚 Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mr. Kwanta Yakubu, disclosed this at a press conference in Lafia, which was held to clear the air on claim made by a mining entity, Trimadix Geomin Consult Limited, against the Nasarawa State Government.

 Trimadix Geomin Consult recently alleged undue interference by the Nasarawa State Government at its Amba Mining Site in Kokona Local Government Area of the state.

Yakubu, however, stated that the state government would not compromise its determination to rid the state of illegal mining activities that put the life of its people and the safety of communities in danger.

He said: 鈥淲e are committed to the full enforcement of the executive order to ensure that our state is safe and communities are protected from exploitation by mining entities.

鈥淭he so-called mining entity claiming to be licensed to carry out mining activities in Amba community is not known to the Nasarawa State Government according to the provisions of the Executive Order No.02 of 2022 and the mining site remain closed and secured until responsible investors who are trusted by the community and the state, through a proper consenting, are licensed to mine in the area.鈥�

He, therefore, maintained that the Nasarawa State government would continue to watch closely any further development in that mining site, as well as any other place with similar occurrence that was against the interest of peace in the state and deal decisively with any violator.

Shortage of doctors is the major challenge facing the Nasarawa State government owned ‘Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH)’, Lafia, as another set of 24 medical doctors had left the hospital recently due to poor welfare, reports Igbawase Ukumba

The rate at which medical doctors are leaving the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital (DASH), Lafia in recent times is alarming, hence the Nasarawa State Houses of Assembly had to call on the state government to intervene towards halting the mass exodus of doctors from the tertiary health institution.

Probably in Nasarawa State, medical doctors are being demotivated, hence they do not want to come to the state. Hitherto, In the past six months, several medical doctors had resigned from the services of the Nasarawa State government.

It is pertinent to state that the federal government had this year reviewed the Consolidated Medical Salaries Scale for doctors and other health workers. The implementation started in February, and the arrears ought to be paid in the month of March. This has not been allegedly implemented in Nasarawa State.

Nevertheless, in 2022, Governor Abdullahi Sule was reportedly said to have promised Resident Doctors that hazard allowance was going to be implemented whenever the federal government implements the reviewed hazard allowance in the country, but investigation revealed that up till this moment, it was yet to be implemented in Nasarawa State.

No doubt, this has created a wide salary disparity between doctors working with the Nasarawa State government and those of the Federal Teaching Hospitals or the Federal Medical Centres.

Explaining the rationale behind the mass exodus of doctors from DASH, President of the National Association of Resident Doctors in Nasarawa State, Dr. Yakubu Adeleke, said the mass resignation of medical doctors operating in hospitals across the 13 Local Government Areas of the state, was due to the non-implementation of promotion for eight years and the poor welfare package of the state government.

Speaking with journalists in Lafia recently, the state鈥檚 NARD President, Adeleke narrated that for over two years, they (doctors) had been reaching out to the state government to take steps towards addressing their demands bordering on welfare, but all their efforts proved abortive.

He lamented that despite the several promises of the state governor, Abdullahi Sule, to address the plights of the medical practitioners in the state, nothing had been done about their demands.

He said: 鈥淒octors in Nasarawa State have been stagnated-no promotion. Some doctors have been working for eight years without promotion. Non-implementation of the National Minimum Wage and consequential adjustment of our salaries as well as non-payment of hazard allowance.

鈥淩ecently, the federal government reviewed the Consolidated Medical Salaries Scale for doctors and other health workers. The implementation started in February, and the arrears ought to be paid in the month of March. This has not also been implemented here in Nasarawa State.

鈥� In year 2022, Governor Abdullahi Sule promised the Resident Doctors that hazard allowance is going to be implemented whenever the federal government implements the reviewed hazard allowance in the country, but up till this moment, it is yet to be implemented in Nasarawa State.

鈥淭his has created a wide salary disparity between doctors working with the Nasarawa State government and those of the Federal Teaching Hospitals or the Federal Medical Centers.

Adeleke continued that apart from these challenges, the Resident Doctors were short-staffed in all ramifications, so there was work overload.

鈥淭his is demotivating, and it is not encouraging doctors to come to Nasarawa State. Therefore, I am calling on the state government to urgently look into these issues and proffer a lasting solution to them”, the Nasarawa NARD President appealed.鈥�

Meanwhile, investigations by 糖心视频 indicated that in the past six months, no fewer than 59 medical doctors had resigned from the services of the Nasarawa state Government. Out of the figure, 20 medical doctors left in the quest for greener pasture, while 39 resigned on account of poor condition of service.

Also, in the last two years, the Nasarawa State Government-owned General and Specialist Hospitals have been characterised by unstable industrial harmony, strikes, protests, and resignations of health workers, especially doctors due to inadequate working conditions.

Further findings showed that the impact of the mass resignation by the medic was presently being felt at the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia, especially at the Surgical, Gynecology, and Outpatient Units of the facility as a large number of patients were seen waiting for long hours to access care.

Speaking on the development, a senior official in the administrative unit of the DASH, who pleaded to speak under the condition of anonymity, said they received over 25 resignation letters from doctors within two days.

In an interview, one of the female doctors said she had run out of patience after working with the state government for many years without any improvements, hence she was left with the only option of throwing in the towel.

鈥淚 need to go somewhere that will priotise me. If the Nasarawa State government really wants doctors to stay in the state, they need to do something about it in terms of welfare and the workload. Now, as doctors are resigning, they are going to start searching for doctors, but there are no sufficient doctors in the country.

鈥淚 had been called for job employments in several institutions without even applying, but I declined with the hope that the Nasarawa State government will do the needful, but after spending years here without any progress, I had no choice but to take a decision,鈥� she declared.

Reacting, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Gaza Gwamna, explained that the state government had commenced the implementation of welfare packages for the doctors in the state.

Therefore, Dr. Gwamna appealed to the remaining doctors working with the state government to remain calm, adding that the state government had also begun the process of employment to fill the vacant positions.

He said, 鈥淚t is just unfortunate that it (mass resignation) is happening. There have been issues of promotion and also the issues of hazard allowance that have been pending for a long time. However, implementation has already started.鈥�

Ironically, when the management of DASH appeared before the Nasarawa State House of Assembly committee on health on May 31, 2024 to defend its 2024 budget performance, the Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Dr. Ikrama Hassan, however, still identified shortage of doctors, as a major challenge facing the hospital, stressing that 24 medical doctors have recently left the hospital.

In a swift reaction, the House Committee chairman on health, Larry Ven-Bawa, tasked the state government to initiate deliberate policies that wii reduce increase in brain drain at the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia.

Ven-Bawa lamented that the rate at which medical doctors were leaving the DASH in recent times has been a source of concern, hence the need for the House to call on the government to do the needful. He noted that from the information gathered from the CMD of the hospital, 24 medical doctors have left the hospital.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu , yesterday disclosed that the Renewed Hope Initiative Governing Council has approved a grant of N50,000 to 1,000 women in each state as part of women economic empowerment programme.

The First Lady disclosed this in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State, during the official handover and symbolic presentation of food items to internally displaced persons, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in Nasarawa State.

The president鈥檚 wife who was representative by the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, said: “I am pleased to inform you that the federal ministry of agriculture in collaboration with the Renewed Hope Initiative have concluded plan to donate a truck load of fertiliser and bags of rice to each states starting here in Nasarawa State.

“Also, the Renewed Hope Initiative Governing Council has graciously approved a grant of N50,000 to 1,000 women in each states as part of our women economic empowerment programme”.

She, however, explained that the food items to the internally displaced persons, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in Nasarawa State was under the Renewed Hope Initiatives Food Outreach Scheme.

“The Food Outreach Scheme is specially designed to provide support to the underprivileged inline with the resolve of the administration of President Bola Tinubu, to leave no one behind in ensuring food security and sufficiency in the country.

“Under this scheme, a trailer load of assorted food items is being donated to the state government for onward distribution to identified groups courtesy of a notable and public spirited industry that has made the commitment to make the food items available on a monthly basis” she added.

The First Lady stated that so far, the Federal Capital Territory, Kano State and Nasarawa State had benefited from the scheme under the Social Investment Programme.

“To the beneficiaries, I thank you for believing in us, and we are always proud of you. I want to assure you that we will continue to do all we can to support and encourage you, especially families in vulnerable communities, she maintained.

Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia

The Nasarawa State Government yesterday said it would also negotiate with the organised labour in the state to arrive at a new minimum wage that it can sustainably pay.

The state Head of Service (HoS), Abigail Waya, stated this when she briefed journalists on the progress made so far on the minimum wage shortly after the State Executive Council meeting held in the Government House, Lafia.

Waya said: 鈥淎s we may all be aware, there is a tripartite committee that was set up by the federal government. That committee is negotiating with the federal government on what the new minimum wage would be.

鈥淣asarawa State on its part is fully committed to the welfare of civil servants and as soon as a new minimum wage is arrived at, the state government will also negotiate with the organised labour in the state to arrive at a new minimum wage that it can sustainably pay.鈥�

She maintained therefore that the Nasarawa State Government鈥檚 decision to negotiate its own new minimum wage was because it was not just about having a new minimum wage, but it should be a wage that the government can pay in the long term.

The expanded State Executive Council meeting convened by the state Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has approved various sums of money totaling over N4 billion for urban and rural renewal projects across the state.