The Kogi East Elites Forum has responded to recent remarks made by the Senator representing Kogi West, Sunday Karimi, during the 2025 Kabba Day Celebration.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the spokesperson of the forum, Alhaji Abubakar Yakubu Rajab, urged political leaders in the state to make statements that promote peace and unity.

He clarified that Kogi East is not part of any political arrangement with the Okun people (Kogi West) aimed at unseating Governor Usman Ododo in 2027.

Rajab called on residents of the state to remain focused on issues that foster cohesion ahead of the next election cycle.

He noted that elected officials play an important role in maintaining political stability and encouraged stakeholders to avoid comments capable of heightening tensions.

The forum reaffirmed its support for Governor Usman Ododo and commended his administration’s programmes, including plans to establish industrial parks and free trade zones, progress on the state airport project, the ongoing construction of an international market in Lokoja, the introduction of free education, improvements in primary healthcare, prompt payment of salaries and pensions, scholarship initiatives, and investments in infrastructure and security.

The group also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to continue supporting efforts that promote harmony across the state’s senatorial districts, emphasizing that Kogi remains united. It encouraged citizens to allow the governor to complete his constitutionally permitted tenure.

…….Urges Nigerians to Embrace Tolerance as the True Path to Nation Building

Juliet Akoje In Abuja.

Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olisa Metuh, has made a passionate appeal to Nigerians—leaders and citizens alike to embrace tolerance, forgiveness, and mutual accommodation as core pillars of nation-building.

Speaking during an intimate media parley at his Abuja residence ahead of his 60th birthday yesterday, Metuh turned a personal reflection on his life’s trials into a broader national message on healing and unity.

Metuh, who has played prominent roles in Nigeria’s political landscape for decades, retraced his journey through extraordinary adversity, accidents, gunshot wounds, legal battles, imprisonment, and public humiliation.

He described an uncanny pattern in which every leap year brought him significant hardship.

“From a life-threatening accident in 1992, to being shot by armed robbers in 1996, to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment in 2016”

He narrated a journey marked by survival and renewed faith, even though the most recent leap year, 2024, he said, carried no misfortune only by the grace of God.

Metuh emphasized that these experiences shaped his conviction about forgiveness.

Despite the pain of his imprisonment and the controversy surrounding the N400 million allegation, he stressed that he harbors no resentment.

According to him, neither money was missing nor used illegally adding that the funds were released well before the 2015 campaigns to counter narratives linking the then-president to Boko Haram, and that a team involving senior government officials and experts worked on the assignment.

He said the transparency of the work was so clear that senior figures in government acknowledged it.

“As I get to 60, I have forgiven everyone. I have forgiven the judge, the EFCC, the prosecutors, the media that were used for media trial and even the key actors involved. If God has forgiven me and allowed me reach 60 despite everything I’ve faced, why can’t I forgive?”

His call for forgiveness broadened into a call for national reconciliation and further urged Nigerians to adopt tolerance and forbearance as national virtues.

He appealed to leaders in government, business, and politics to exercise greater patience, particularly with young Nigerians on social media who, he said, often express themselves as a way of relieving frustration.

He cautioned against clamping down on online criticism and emphasized that democracy grows stronger when people feel free to express themselves.

He also pointed to his personal encounter with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a powerful lesson in tolerance.

As PDP spokesman, Metuh said he issued more press statements against Senator Tinubu than against any other opposition figure yet during his darkest moments, it was Tinubu who reached out to inquire about his health and well-being.

“It taught me the spirit of tolerance. It taught me the spirit of forbearance,” he said urging leaders to emulate such humility and humanity.

Addressing Nigeria’s democracy, Metuh noted that while the country faces significant challenges, it has not failed.

Democracies, he said, take generations to mature, and Nigeria must stay committed to the journey.

He emphasized that political disagreements should not translate to persecution, intolerance or repression, as witnessed under the previous administration.

He encouraged leaders to tolerate dissent and engage constructively with critics rather than punish them.

On constitutional amendments, Metuh expressed skepticism about the National Assembly’s repeated attempts, describing them as constantly incomplete.

Nonetheless, he proposed bold reforms, including a single five or six year tenure for presidents and governors and a zonal rotation of the presidency to strengthen unity, fairness, and national accommodation.

He argued that if every zone knows it will one day occupy the presidency, tensions will naturally reduce.

He called on the opposition PDP, Labour Party, ADC, YPP and others to offer Nigerians a constructive alternative by interrogating government policies instead of trading insults.

Recalling his own time as spokesperson, he said strong opposition strengthens democracy by compelling those in power to perform better.

On insecurity, he urged Nigerians to collaborate with security agencies by offering information and rejecting divisive behaviour.

He insisted that support from any individual or entity willing to contribute equipment, intelligence or resources should be welcomed in the national interest.

Reflecting on his humanitarian efforts, Metuh said he has invested in benevolence for nearly two decades, believing that the prayers of the underserved whom he has helped contributed to his survival through life’s storms.

His 60th birthday, he said, is an opportunity to thank God and reaffirm his commitment to the country.

While he did not state explicitly whether he will return to partisan politics, Metuh hinted strongly that he will remain active in the democratic space.

“After my birthday, it will be obvious that I am taking a deep interest at a very high level to develop democracy in this country,” he said.

“Let us accommodate one another and imbibe the spirit of tolerance and forbearance. That is the only way to build our nation.”

As he steps into his sixth decade, Olisa Metuh frames his life not merely as a political journey, but as a testament to forgiveness, resilience, and the urgent need for Nigerians to rediscover the values that bind rather than divide.

•As NNPC foundation recommits to food security in the country

Juliet Akoje in Abuja and Okon Bassey in Uyo

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, by expanding its mandate through the establishment of specialised training institutions across the federation to deepen national agricultural productivity capacity and ensure innovation is not confined to a few urban centres.

In another related development, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Foundation has renewed its commitment to ensuring food security in the country.

Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director, NNPC Foundation said this on Wednesday during the training of vulnerable farmers in Akwa Ibom, affirming that 6,000 farmers across the country would be trained on modern farming methods and market access strategies to boost food production in the country.

Meanwhile, the proposed legislation titled, “Bill for an Act to Amend the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria Act, Cap. A12, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, to Provide for the Establishment of Certain Specialised Colleges; and for Other Related Matters,” was sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu and 6 other lawmakers.

Leading the debate on its general principles at the plenary on Wednesday, the Deputy Speaker noted that agriculture remains a vital part of Nigeria’s economy and a key driver of rural development, job creation, food security, and national GDP.

He however said that the nation continues to face glaring gaps in research and innovation, especially in regions where unique agricultural potential remains untapped due to the absence of tailored educational institutions.

He therefore said that the Bill seeks to bridge this glaring gap as the amendment will not simply be adding institutions, but will serve as an investment in untapped potential, and empowerment of those whose hands feed the nation.

Kalu expressed optimism that when the bill becomes law, it will lead to stronger agricultural research ecosystem; more employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for Nigerians; greater food security and overall economic growth.

He said: “This is not merely to introduce a legislative proposal, but to lay before this Peoples House a vision — a vision to take agricultural education into the fabric of our national development strategy and effort.

“A vision that recognises that research and innovation must not remain in silos or city centres, but must live where the land is tilled, where the livestock roam, where the rivers run.

“Through this amendment, we are not simply adding institutions — we are answering a national call -a call to invest where there is untapped potential, to empower those whose hands feed the nation, and to deepen our national agricultural productivity capacity by expanding the mandate and reach of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria through the establishment of specialised training institutions in various parts of our great nation by establishing certain specialized agricultural colleges in strategic locations across the six geo-political zones.

“This Bill which comprises 3 clauses principally seeks to amend the Third Schedule of the Principal Act to provide for the establishment of the following specialized colleges of agriculture – (a) Federal College of Veterinary and Medical Laboratory Technology, Bende, Abia State; (b} Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Takum, Adamawa State; (c) Federal College of Land Resources Technology, Ikole Ekiti, Ekiti State; (d) Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State; (e) Federal College of Anima} Health and Production Technology, Dange Shuni, Sokoto State; (f} Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology, Olamaboro, Kogi State. The passage of this Bill is a strategic step toward ensuring agricultural innovation is not confined to a few urban centres but is equitably distributed across the federation.”

Thereafter, the bill was put to a voice vote by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas who presided over the session and it was passed and referred to the Committee on Agric Colleges.

On her part, Mrs. Emmanuella Arukwe, Managing Director, NNPC Foundation represented by Executive Director, Programme Development and Coordinator, NNPC Foundation, Dr. Bala David said the Foundation was dedicated to implementing impactful programmes that align with national priorities.

According to her more than 500 farmers in Akwa Ibom were trained by the NNPC Ltd Agricultural Training Initiative for Vulnerable Farmers on modern methods and strategies to boost food production.

The farmers, she said were drawn from the 31 Local Government Areas of the state, to participate in the training to equip them with techniques and market access strategies to add value to their businesses.

“This programme is a testament to our unwavering commitment to food security, economic empowerment, and national development.

“As the corporate social responsibility arm of NNPC Ltd, the NNPC Foundation is dedicated to implementing impactful programmes that align with national priorities.

“This initiative is part of our broader efforts to support the Federal Government’s agricultural transformation agenda, which seeks to enhance food security, increase productivity, and improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers.

“Our goal is to equip every participant with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to transition from subsistence farming to commercial-scale production,” Arukwe said.

In his remarks, Dr. Offiong Offor, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, thanked NNPC for the programme initiative to equip farmers with knowledge on modern farming.

Offor, represented by Dr. Atim Okoko, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, said a nation that train farmers is a nation that would not go hungry.

“I want to express appreciation of the State Government to NNPC for mounting this laudable programme.

“A nation that start to train farmers, a nation that start to look at farmers will never go hungry.

“In this season that our President, Bola Tinubu has come up with his Renewed Hope Agenda, everything is to end hunger in Nigeria,” offor said.

The commissioner added that the programme came to complement what the state government was doing to ensure food sufficiency.

Responding on behalf of farmers, the State Chairman, Mr. Bassey Inwamg (AFAN) said farmers in the state were so grateful for the training programme.

Inwang said the training would boost food production in the state, as the farmers would use the knowledge gained to apply in their farms for increase in yields.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has announced that Nigeria is taking a leadership role in electrifying the African continent, with a goal to provide power to 300 million Africans by 2030.

Abbas made this statement during the First Legislative Conference and Expo on Renewable Energy, hosted by the House Committee on Renewable Energy in collaboration with the UNDP in Lagos.

He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a $1 billion investment for the Rural Electrification Agency in December 2024 of which $750 million is dedicated to expanding solar access through 124 mini-grids and 25,000 solar home systems, benefiting over 200,000 Nigerians.

Abbas emphasized Nigeria’s participation in the Mission 300 Initiative – a collaboration with the World Bank and African Development Bank as a testament to its dedication to clean and inclusive energy access.

He urged cohesive action from all sectors: legislators to develop solid legal frameworks, the executive to act with urgency, the private sector to innovate and invest, and civil society to drive awareness and accountability.

He reaffirmed the House’s commitment to clean energy, citing the formation of a Standing Committee on Renewable Energy and strategic legislative steps like removing VAT on renewable energy components and compressed natural gas (CNG) technologies.

He also highlighted efforts to provide legal backing for Nigeria’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Policy (REEEP) of 2015.

Citing international energy trends, Abbas stressed the urgency of a clean energy transition.

“In 2024, over 92% of new global power capacity came from renewables, bringing total global capacity to over 4,448 GW. In 2023 alone, $1.7 trillion of the $2.8 trillion invested in energy went into renewables, efficiency, and electric mobility.”

He pointed to global legislative models from Egypt, Germany, and the EU as examples African parliaments should follow, while commending Nigeria’s Electricity Act of 2023, which decentralized energy governance and boosted local and private sector roles.

Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, Chair of the Renewable Energy Committee, echoed the call for urgency, warning that Nigeria’s dependence on fossil fuels has hampered economic growth.

He stressed the need for energy diversification and legislative mandates for government agencies to adopt renewable sources.

Ogene also revealed investigations into past renewable energy investments to promote transparency.

He argued that the energy transition could drive youth employment and skill development, with every solar project representing economic opportunity.

Representing Ghana, First Deputy Speaker, Hon. Bernard Ahiafor, praised Nigeria’s initiative and called on African legislators to lead the clean energy movement.

He highlighted Ghana’s own progress, including large-scale solar projects, net metering, and green financing.

Despite Africa’s significant solar potential, he lamented that over 600 million Africans remain without electricity.

Ahiafor emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation and robust legal frameworks, referencing Ghana’s Renewable Energy Act and commitments to international climate agreements like the Paris Accord.

UNDP’s Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Atafuah while stressing the high cost of inaction noted that nations mastering the green economy would dominate future geopolitics and urged Nigeria to take bold, strategic actions.

She affirmed the UNDP’s support in designing policies, providing technical and financial support, and building partnerships to support Nigeria’s energy transition.

She called the moment a turning point in Nigeria’s development, where energy is pivotal to national security, economic competitiveness, and global relevance.

However, Speaker Abbas urged stakeholders to use the conference to generate actionable outcomes, from legislation to investments, ensuring the momentum leads to lasting impact and real change across Africa.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives has ordered financial technology firm Remita, also known as SystemSpecs Ltd, to refund a total of N182.769,245,175.20 withheld from Treasury Single Account (TSA) since 2015 to the Federal Government.

This followed a forensic audit that uncovered significant financial discrepancies.

The directive was issued by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the House during a hearing yesterday following the submission of an investigative report by consulting firm Seyi Katola & Company (Chartered Accountants).

Recall that the House of Representatives had, in 2024, mandated the Committee to investigate revenue leakages and non-remittance of funds by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) through Remita.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam during the hearing stated that the resolution was based on evidence submitted by the Consultant, as well as documents provided by SystemSpecs/Remita and other stakeholders within the Treasury Single Account (TSA) ecosystem.

The managing partner of the consulting firm, Dr. Adewale Oyebamiji presented the breakdown of the liabilities.

The audit found that SystemSpecs was responsible for N3.416,494,011.91 in under-refunded transaction processing fees,  – N101.850,246.99 in unpaid acquirer fees, and – N179.250,900,916.30 in unremitted collections.

According to the committee’s report on the total payable by the System specs limited for first regime, calculated at the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) of 27.25%, Under-Refund of Transaction processing fee; Amount Refundable is N993,006,714.31, Interests Charges is N2,423,487,297.60, Totaling: N3,416,494,011.91.

“Non-payment of Acquirer fee; Refundable is N29,602,855.67, Interest Charges- N72,247,391.32 Totaling: N101,850,246.99 – Non-remittance of collection; Refundable- N54,241,561,948.88, Interest – N125,009,338,967.42 Totaling: N179,250,900,916.30”

The above breakdown amounts to N182,769,245,175.20 refundable by the System specs/Remit.

“The committee hereby recommends that SystemSpecs Ltd be compelled to refund the total sum of N182,769,245,175.20 to the Federal Government Asset Recovery Account domiciled at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), account number: 0020054161191,” the report reads.

The committee noted that some deposit money banks have already complied with similar repayment orders and also called on other TSA value chain service providers who are yet to comply to do so promptly.

However, Hon. Salam commended the forensic consultants for what he described as a thorough and patriotic job, emphasizing that the effort supports transparency and strengthens Nigeria’s fiscal accountability framework.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives has moved to prevent discrepancies in bills passed by the National Assembly by mandating a stricter verification process before they are transmitted to the President for assent.

Owing to this, the House has resolved to revert all authenticated bills to the Clerks of the Senate and House of Representatives respectively for confirmation before final transmission to the President for assent.

The lawmakers also resolved to ensure that the Clerks of both Houses verify the authenticity and accuracy of bills passed and forwarded to the President, certifying that no alterations or errors had occurred during the process to ensure that the process was made mandatory for all bills, including the constitution alteration bills, to guarantee the integrity and legitimacy of the legislative process.

The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on the ‘Confirmation of Authenticated Bills Before Transmission to the President for Assent to Ensure Legislative Integrity and Accuracy,’ moved by Hon. Sada Soli at plenary yesterday.

Soli, while presenting the motion noted that the discrepancies in some bills passed by the National Assembly, alleging that certain provisions were not identical with the original bill passed by both the Senate and House of Representatives.

He also noted that the President’s recent decline to assent to a bill due to errors underscored the need for meticulous verification.

He stressed that all bills passed by the National Assembly are usually forwarded to the Clerk of the National Assembly for authentication, in accordance with the provisions of the Authentication Act.

“Adopting the Resolution of the House, the House of Representatives will demonstrate its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, ultimately strengthening the legislative process and reinforcing public trust in the National Assembly,” he added.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts has urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (IPCC) to invite two former Permanent Secretaries in the Federal Ministry of Labour – Williams Alo and Yerima Tafa – over a N3,201,583,662.65 alleged financial infraction while in office.

The Committee raised concern over the increasing disregard for the committee and the parliament by Ministries, Department and Agencies of government by refusing to honour invitations to respond to audit queries issued by the Auditor General for the Federation.

Chairman of the Committee, Bamidele Salam, who announced the resolution yesterday, said the Committee had written seven different letters to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to appear before the committee without any response and without giving any reason for not appearing.

Salam said the Ministry also failed to provide the relevant documents needed to clear them of the 32 audit queries against them from the 2020 audit report, adding that although the Auditor General for the Federation made specific recommendations, the Committee decided to write the Ministry, allowing them to defend themselves.

He said the Minister consistently refused to honour the invitation.

“The Senate Committee on Public Accounts had to issue a statement against some MDAs for their refusal to appear,” adding that the House Committee “will not continue to waste its time inviting agencies that will not respect the constitutional authority of the National Assembly.”

“Williams Alo and Yerima Tafa who were the Permanent Secretaries in the Ministry when the infraction took place should be held liable for the infraction since they were the accounting officers in the ministry,” he added.

Also, the committee gave the current Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Saliu Usman 72 hours to appear before them to respond to the seven audit queries from the Auditor General for the 2021 financial year or risk having the committee upholding the recommendations of the Auditor General.

The Permanent Secretaries in the Federal ministries of Transportation, Women Affairs and Humanitarian Services, Adeleye Ayodeji, Mariam Keshero and Yakubu Adams Kofamata respectively are also to appear before the committee within the next 72 hours.

The Chairman of the committee said the committee was making every effort to address queries contained in both the 2020 and 2021 audit report before the 2022 report would be submitted in April.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise has expressed dissatisfaction over the refusal of heads of government agencies to honour its invitation to an investigative hearing.

The Committee on Customs and Excise and the Committee on Interior had invited the Minister of Interior, Comptroller General of Customs, Comptroller General of the Nigeria Immigration Service and other stakeholders to the investigative hearing on the modernisation of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The House of Representatives at two seating had ordered the committees to investigate the modernisation project of the Nigerian Customs Service (e-customs) concession to the Trade Mordeniation Project (TMP) and the role of Webb Fontaine in the E-Customs framework as well as the need to employ modern technology to secure Nigeria’s borders and address the challenges posed by illegal migration and border management.

While the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, was said to be out of the country and could not attend the session with the lawmakers, no reason was given for the absence of the Customs boss and his Immigration counterpart.

A member of the Committee, Olumide Osoba, while expressing concerns over the absence of the Chief Executives said section 88 of the constitution gives the parliament the power to invite any individual to appear before it to offer an explanation and that in such instance, only the Chief Executives of the agencies are to appear before the parliament.

Osoba further said the investigative hearing cannot be held as those representing the Chief Executives were not in position to provide the answers being sought by the parliament.

Furthermore, another member of the Committee, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, said the refusal of the Head of agencies was an afront to the parliament, adding that if they refuse to show up on the next adjourned date, the Committee and the parliament should invoke its powers and recommend their removal from office.

Abiante stressed that their refusal to honour parliamentary invitation would mean that they are either tired of the job or incompetent to carry out their assigned duties.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Leke Abejide, in his ruling said while the investigative hearing on the customs modernisation had to do with improving government revenue, the second one deals with the security of the nation.

Abejide said despite the busy schedule of the lawmakers, they made time to carry out the national assignment, pointing out that the investigative hearing would have to be shifted to another day, preferably after the passage of the national budget and at a time when the Chief Executives will be available to answer questions from members.

However, the Committee was expected to investigate the concession of the operations of the customs to Trade Modernisation Project and why Webb Fontaine that has managed the collection process are still the ones operating the system.

*As EU supports dialogue on increasing women’s participation, representation in governance

Juliet Akoje in Abuja.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, has emphasized the importance of empowering women as a strategic move for Nigeria’s economic growth.
This stance is in line with his legislative agenda which focuses on promoting economic development and unlocking Nigeria’s potential.
Abbas during his keynote address at the International Legislative Dialogue on Women and the Constitution Amendment Process in Nigeria, which was organised by the House Committee on the Review of the Constitution in collaboration with Policy And Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) with support from the European Union in Abuja on Monday said it is disheartening that females are low in numbers at the National Assembly.
He said: “Today represents a meaningful step forward in our collective commitment to inclusive governance and national progress.”
He noted that the dialogue was “not for rhetoric but to establish a clear and actionable path toward meaningful reform.”
He said: “Our goal is to ensure that Nigerian women, an essential part of our nation’s social and economic fabric, secure their rightful place within our governance framework. Empowering women is not only a moral and democratic imperative but also a strategic economic necessity.”
Abbas further referenced researches from global institutions, including the United Nations and the World Economic Forum, which show that organisations and countries benefit from better decision-making, stronger economic growth, and enhanced social well-being when women hold leadership roles.
His words: “Women bring unique perspectives influencing vital issues, from healthcare to economic policy, creating legislation that resonates with millions.
“McKinsey estimates that closing gender gaps could add $12 trillion to the global GDP by 2025, underscoring the immense untapped potential of women’s inclusion.
“Thus, increased representation of women is not a luxury but a necessity for sustainable national development and stability”
“Around the world, and particularly in Africa, we see encouraging examples of gender inclusion. Rwanda, with over 60 percent women representation in its parliament, has shown us that robust, intentional policies work. South Africa, Namibia, and Senegal have all taken significant strides toward inclusivity, reshaping their political landscapes in ways Nigeria can learn from.
“These countries have demonstrated the profound impact of women’s perspectives on governance and development”

“For Nigeria, the current numbers are disheartening. Since 1999, women’s representation in our National Assembly has remained disappointingly low. Despite notable contributions from Nigerian women across various sectors, only 20 of the 469 seats in our National Assembly are occupied by women. This stark gap speaks not of a lack of capable women, but of institutional barriers we must dismantle.”

While noting that some view increased women’s representation as a threat to the status quo, Abbas noted that “inclusion is not displacement – it is partnership.”

According to him, women’s presence complements the contributions of men, enriching the policymaking process.

“If we trust women to shape our homes, nurture our families, and educate our children, we must trust them to contribute to shaping our nation’s future”

While pointing out that affirmative action policies to increase women’s representation are not undemocratic, he said on the contrary, they are deeply aligned with democratic principles.

He further said: “As lawmakers, we are responsible for advancing policies that reflect the values of fairness and equity. I am proud to state that this 10th House has prioritised inclusivity in our Legislative Agenda.

“I have directed the Constitution Review Committee to focus on reforms that promote gender equity and provide additional or reserved seats for women in our legislative bodies”

“We must work towards joint ticketing in elections, reserved seats, and conferring equal citizenship rights to foreigners married to Nigerian women. However, reform is a collective responsibility, and we cannot simply issue communiqués or promises. We must translate today’s dialogue into real, actionable outcomes.”

Also, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu has advocated for the removal of barriers that hinder women’s political advancement in Nigeria.

Kalu during his remarks at the event said that giving women opportunities to participate in the parliamentary activities and in governance processes will not only birth a legislature that reflects the diverse makeup of Nigerian citizenry and values but also bring immense benefits to the general society.

Kalu who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Review bemoaned the poor number of women fielded as candidates in the last 2023 general elections.

According to him, having 1,552 as women in the elections that produced 15,307 candidates by 18 political parties was not encouraging in any way.

He therefore called for support to the gender bills that are before the parliament to ensure that the women are given an opportunity to make their contributions to the political development of the country.

According to him, “I am honored to lead the House Committee on Constitution Review, where we have proposed bills aimed at correcting the gender imbalance within government at all levels. One such critical bill, “A Bill for an Act to Alter the Provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 to Provide for Seat Reservation for Women in the National and State Houses of Assembly” (HB 1349), alongside four other gender justice bills, are under consideration.

“This proposed legislation is designed to remedy the low representation of women by creating additional seats specifically for female candidates in national and state legislatures.

“The bill reflects a pragmatic approach by proposing a temporary measure—an approach that has worked effectively in other countries to fast-track women’s representation in governance. These reserved seats are not a permanent fix but are structured as a “Temporary Special Measure,” subject to review after four general election cycles, or 16 years. At that time, stakeholders will assess whether the measure should continue, be adjusted, or be phased out based on progress made.”

He further said: “We see this approach as essential within Nigeria’s electoral system, which is largely based on a First-Past-the-Post model. Unlike proportional systems where party-based gender quotas can result in direct outcomes, our model presents challenges in implementing such quotas effectively.

“Special seats, therefore, offer a feasible solution to ensuring that women not only participate as candidates but are also represented meaningfully within our legislative institutions.

“We must view the financial investment in women’s inclusion as a direct investment in Nigeria’s future”

“Countries with higher women’s representation in governance consistently show higher rates of progress in health, education, and economic stability. Our society, therefore, stands to gain immensely from a legislature that reflects the diverse makeup of its citizenry and values contributions from all perspectives.”

Furthermore, he stated that “The popular saying, “women belong in all places where decisions are being made,” resonates strongly within this context. We must ensure that the National and State Houses of Assembly are inclusive and welcoming to women.

“This isn’t just about seats or numbers; it is about recognizing the invaluable perspectives that women bring to the table, which in turn strengthen our democracy and make it more resilient.

“As we gather here today, I urge each of us to look beyond the challenges and see the transformative potential of a Nigerian democracy that embraces its entire population.

“On behalf of the House Committee on Constitution Review, I implore that the discussions and resolutions should focus on how we can best support the path toward gender inclusivity within our legislative framework.

“Let us champion these amendments, advocate for the adoption of temporary special measures, and work to remove barriers that hinder women’s political advancement.

“Let me reiterate that our commitment to improving women’s representation in governance is not just a goal; it is an essential component of our democratic journey. Let us proceed with resolve and vision, ensuring that our policies and constitutional reforms reflect our dedication to a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria”.

The European Union (EU) while supporting a key dialogue focused on women’s inclusion and representation in governance noted that prioritising women’s political participation and representation is crucial for Nigeria’s growth, especially to fast-track the nation’s progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The dialogue, being an international event with a view to learn from experiences from other countries, also had in attendance representatives from South Africa, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

The deputy ambassador of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Zissimos Vergos underscored the importance of women’s representation in governance as both a fundamental right and a driver of inclusive growth.

He said: “The active participation of women at all levels of decision-making and politics is essential to the achievement of equality, sustainable development, peace, and democracy. Women’s equal participation in power and decision-making roles is part of their fundamental right to participate in political life, and sits at the core of gender equality and women’s empowerment”

He also acknowledged that, despite global progress, women remain underrepresented in government, often facing significant barriers to accessing and exercising political power.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit scheme initiated by the former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The House also mandated its Committee on Works to determine the beneficiaries’ eligibility and selection process by examining the criteria used by the scheme’s management committee to select participating companies and determine if they align with the scheme’s objectives.

Consequently, the House directed its committee to ascertain the impact on Road Infrastructure Development through the evaluation of the impact of the scheme on road infrastructure development in Nigeria and identify the challenges and limitations faced by participating companies and recommend solutions as well as review the transparency and accountability mechanisms in place to ensure the scheme’s effectiveness.

These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of Urgent Public Importance on the impacts of the scheme which was established through Executive Order No. 007 in 2019 moved by Hon. Ibrahim Aliyu at plenary yesterday.

Aliyu while presenting the motion underscored the need to ensure accountability of public funds, queried the effectiveness of the scheme.

The lawmaker  stated that the tax scheme was established by Executive Order No. 007 in 2019, recalling that the federal government then stated that Nigeria needed N348 trillion over 10 years to bridge the nation’s infrastructure gap.

“This Tax Credit Scheme, is meant to encourage private sector participation in road infrastructure development Nigeria. It allows companies to recover costs incurred in constructing or refurbishing eligible roads as tax credits against their future Companies Income Tax (CIT) liability,” he said.

He further noted that five years after its inception, the scheme’s effectiveness which hinges on the viability and cost efficiency of projects undertaken was yet to be ascertained.

“The selection process and onboarding of beneficiary companies by the Road Infrastructure Development and Refurbishment Investment Tax Credit Scheme Management Committee lacks transparency and clear eligibility criteria”

“There is limited information on the project evaluation and approval process. The tax credit utilization may not align with the scheme’s objectives and therefore not achieving its intended impact on our Nation’s road infrastructure,” he said.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives Joint Committee on Environment and Petroleum Resources (Upstream), Petroleum (downstream) has summoned the Managing Directors of Aiteo E & P Company,Victor Okoronkwo and Nigerian Agip Oil Company, Bolondi Fabrizio (now Oando Oil Ltd) to appear within 7 days over oil spillage at Olugboboro  Community in Southern Ijaw. 

This resolution followed the Committee’s displeasure over refusal by the oil companies’ executives to appear before the Committee after been invited on three occasions. 

The chairman of the Commitee, Pondi Gbabador, during his remark at the committee hearing yesterday said that Committee was mandated to investigate activities and the operations of Aiteo E & P Company and Nigerian Agip Oil Company (now Oando Oil Ltd).

Gbabador stressed that these companies allegedly portend grave environmental consequences in their host communities and, by extension, the nation as a whole.

He further said that the oil industry plays a critical role in the economic development of the country and that it contributes significantly to the national income, provides employment, and supports infrastructure development in various regions. 

The lawmaker lamented the contribution by the oil companies shouldn’t come at the cost of the health, well-being, and livelihood of the people in the host communities, nor the expense of the environment.

Recall that the House of Representatives, at its sitting of Tuesday, 12th March 2024, considered a motion titled Environmental Impact of Transporting Crude Oil by Mega Seagoing Vessels from Nembe Creek Trunk to Offshore Crude Oil Storage in the Atlantic Ocean by Aiteo E & P.

The lawmakers consequently resolved that the Federal Ministry of Environment should compel the Management of Aiteo E & P to conduct an environmental impact assessment of the project, as dictated by the Environment Impact Assessment Act, 2004, and include the host communities, the State Government and stakeholders in line with international global practice, subject to scrutiny of the public and environmental experts.

According to Gbabador, “The House in a motion mandated its committees on Environment and Petroleum Resources (Midstream) to investigate Environmental Impact of Transporting Crude Oil by Mega Seagoing Vessels from Nembe Creek Trunk to Offshore Crude Oil Storage in the Atlantic Ocean by Aiteo E & P, and Monitor compliance with the Ministry of Environment and the Management of Aiteo E & P with this requirement, and report within four (4) weeks.

“In the same vein, the House also on Tuesday, 23rd July 2024, considered a motion titled Oil Spillage at Olugboboro Community in Southern Ijaw from Nigerian Agip Oil Company Facility, and subsequently resolved to: Urge the Management of the Nigerian Agip Oil Company to urgently stop/contain the oil leakages from its Facilities at Ogboinbiri/Teibidaba affecting Olugboboro community in southern Ijaw Federal Constituency”

“Also urged the National Emergency Management Agency to urgently supply relief materials to ameliorate the suffering of the impacted communities who have lost sources of livelihood, further urged the Nigeria Agip Oil Company to immediately pay compensation to the affected community for the economic trees and aquatic life damaged since April 2024, by the spillage and Mandated the Committees on Environment and Petroleum Resources (Upstream) to carry out extensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the spillage to ascertain and assess the extent of impact to Olugboboro community of Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency and report within four (4) weeks.

“In light of the above, we have invited the Managing Directors of both Aiteo E & P Company and Nigerian Agip Oil Company (now Oando Oil Ltd) to this Hearing, to provide us with detailed explanations regarding their activities, particularly in their areas of operations. We expect full cooperation and transparency from all stakeholders in this process.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the operations of oil companies in our country are carried out in a manner that is sustainable, environmentally responsible, and respectful of the rights and welfare of the communities they operate in and the Country at large.

“It is also noteworthy, to emphasize that the Committees are not here to vilify any corporate entity but to ensure accountability, transparency, and adherence to environmental laws and regulations that govern the oil sector in our country. We aim to find solutions, hold the responsible parties accountable where necessary, and recommend the appropriate remedial actions.

“The outcome of the Hearing will not only affect the immediate communities involved but will also set a precedent for how Nigerians approach environmental issues related to industrial activities in the future. The environment is our common heritage, and we must protect it for ourselves and future generations.

“I trust that the deliberations today will be conducted with the highest level of professionalism, respect, and commitment to justice. Thank you all for your attention, and I look forward to a productive session”

Rofikat Odetoro who represented the ministry of Environment said the EIA approval issued by the ministry stipulated that the crude oil from Altio oil fields should be evacuated through pipelines and not through barges as being currently practiced by the company.”

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House Committee on Labour, Employment, and Productivity, alongside its Senate counterpart, has advocated delisting of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) from Schedule 1 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA), 2007.

According to a statement issued by the Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Akin Rotimi, yesterday, the advocacy follows a decision by the National Assembly and the NSITF to strengthen their collaboration, aiming to enhance the NSITF’s capacity to provide a social safety net for workers across both the public and private sectors.

The developments were discussed during a recent two-day retreat in Lagos, organised by the NSITF for members of the House and Senate Committees on Labour, Employment and Productivity to familiarise the committee members with the NSITF’s operations.

The statement further stated that members of both committees urged the NSITF management to intensify efforts to enroll all public sector employees in the Employee Compensation Scheme (ECS), highlighting its social benefits and positive impact on economic productivity.

They also recommended the NSITF engage with relevant agencies to ensure timely collection and remittance of ECS deductions for both Treasury-funded and non-Treasury-funded agencies.

Acknowledging that the NSITF is not a revenue-generating agency, committee members emphasised that delisting it from Schedule 1 of the Fiscal Responsibility Act would not only exempt the NSITF from the mandatory 50% revenue deduction by the Federal Ministry of Finance but also allow for the full utilisation of its funds for its intended beneficiaries.

The General Manager of NSITF, Nwachukwu Godson stated that: “With respect to its service delivery, it was resolved that it is critical for NSITF to undertake a digital transformation of its core functions, departments and programs as well as implement an electronic record system to improve service delivery and show transparency.

In alignment with the management’s plans, the committee urged the fund to embark on extensive advocacy to enable Nigerians better understand the criticality of the mandate of NSITF and the benefits that could accrue to employees if their employers subscribe to the scheme should there be any injury, sickness, death or disability arising from work related activities.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Labour, Employment, and Productivity, Hon. Adegboyega Adefarati, during his remark, commended the capabilities of the new NSITF Managing Director, Oluwaseun Faleye, who presented his roadmap, titled “NSITF Strategic Priorities 2024-2027,” to the committee members.

“From the presentations, no one is in doubt that the Managing Director has the capacity, character, and competence to build a stronger NSITF.  What is left is to give him every support to succeed.”

Senator Diket Plang however expressed satisfaction with the robust engagement during the retreat and pledged the commitment of both committees to leverage their legislative influence to support the NSITF’s success.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The National Assembly has urged the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to open its site and commence verification of Nurses and Midwives based on its former guidelines, not the revised guidelines for verification dated February 7, 2023, pending the conclusion of investigation by the House Committee on Health Institutions.

This was disclosed in a letter dated 13th August, 2024, titled “Negative Portrayal of the House’s Resolution” and signed by the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sani Magaji Tambuwal, to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

Hon. Patrick Umoh on Tuesday, 23 July, 2024 had raised a motion of urgent national importance on the need to safeguard institutional integrity and address any misinterpretation of the House’s Resolution by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

While presenting the motion on the floor, Umoh recalled that the House previously urged the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, through a resolution on Tuesday, 26th, February 2024, not to implement the revised Guidelines for Verification dated February 7, 2023, pending investigation by the House.

The lawmaker said that by a letter dated 13th March 2024 and received on 14th March 2024, the clerk to the national assembly communicated the House’s resolution on Tuesday, 27 February 2024, to the Registrar/CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

He further said: “On the receipt of the House’s Resolution, the council immediately shut down their site for verification of Nurses and Midwives, and boldly and maliciously wrote on the site: “Verification services suspended in compliance with the directive of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The House did not by any stretch of the imagination or interpretation request the Council to shut down their site for verification of Nurses, rather it requested the council not to implement its guidelines dated February 7, 2023 pending investigation by the House.”

Nigerians across the globe have however expressed worry following a decision by nursing boards in US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and UK to stop accepting nursing certificates from Nigerian Nurses because they can’t verify their authenticity.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The national assembly has urged the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria to open its site and commence verification of Nurses and Midwives based on its former guidelines, not the revised guidelines for verification dated February 7, 2023, pending the conclusion of investigation by the House Committee on Health Institutions.

This was disclosed in a letter dated 13th August, 2024, titled “Negative Portrayal of the House’s Resolution” and signed by the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Sani Magaji Tambuwal, to the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

Hon. Patrick Umoh on Tuesday, 23 July, 2024 had raised a motion of urgent national importance on the need to safeguard institutional integrity and address any misinterpretation of the House’s Resolution by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

While presenting the motion on the floor, Umoh recalled that the House previously urged the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, through a resolution on Tuesday, 26th, February 2024, not to implement the revised Guidelines for Verification dated February 7, 2023, pending investigation by the House.

The lawmaker said that by a letter dated 13th March 2024 and received on 14th March 2024, the clerk to the national assembly communicated the House’s resolution on Tuesday, 27 February 2024, to the Registrar/CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.

He further said: “On the receipt of the House’s Resolution, the council immediately shut down their site for verification of Nurses and Midwives, and boldly and maliciously wrote on the site: “Verification services suspended in compliance with the directive of the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The House did not by any stretch of the imagination or interpretation request the Council to shut down their site for verification of Nurses, rather it requested the council not to implement its guidelines dated February 7, 2023 pending investigation by the House.”

Nigerians across the globe have however expressed worry following a decision by nursing boards in US, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and UK to stop accepting nursing certificates from Nigerian Nurses because they can’t verify their authenticity.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The Niger State Government has disbursed N25 billion to clear 21 years of outstanding pensions and gratuities owed to retirees. ‘This substantial payment underscores the administration’s dedication to the welfare of the state retired civil servants’.

According to a statement titled: ‘New Niger Fact-Check’, issued in Abuja yesterday, the first batch of 336 retired senior citizens from 2003, 2004 and 2005 received cheques of about N500 million from outstanding gratuity.

The statement further read: “In addition to settling these long-standing arrears, the state government has also paid N20,000 wage award to civil servants across board for the second time in two months. The government is in addition addressing all outstanding leave grants that have been pending since 2018.

“This move is seen as a significant step towards alleviating the financial burden on retirees, some of whom have not received their pensions for over nine years, leading to a considerable backlog.

“The current administration is committed to ensuring that pension payments are made on time moving forward, to prevent similar situations in the future.”

It added: “Governor Umaru Bago has issued a stern warning against any attempts to alter the serial numbers and files of beneficiaries, stating that anyone found guilty of such actions will face severe consequences.

“The payment process is set to continue in batches, beginning with retirees from the local government areas.”

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The public accounts Committee of the House of Representatives has given a 60-day ultimatum to the Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General of the Federation to automate foreign currency collection in Nigeria’s foreign missions.

The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam, gave the ruling during its hearing on the status of ‘Automation of Foreign Currency Collection in Nigeria’s Foreign Missions,’ held yesterday.

The Automation of Foreign Currency Collection portal is to enable the federal government have control over revenue generated by the country in foreign currency and to ascertain inflow from foreign missions so as to enthrone accountability and transparency.

The Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sakirat, in her remark at the hearing, said Files Solutions Limited was awarded a contract for the automation of foreign currency collection at Nigeria’s foreign missions worldwide at the contract sum of N83.6 million on April 28th, 2021, for five years in addition to the commission of one to five per cent, depending on the amount the company could collect.

Sakirat, said 90 per cent which totalled N75.2 million of the payment had been paid to the contractor and the terms of the contract with the contractor was to ensure that the collection of revenue from all Nigerian foreign missions was online in real-time, as well as a multi-currency conversion web portal and multi-language web portal.

She explained, “The Automation of Foreign Currency Collection portal was launched on May 25th, 2023, by the immediate past Minister of Finance but was never put into use as of 5th June, 2024.

“Our office is in the process of obtaining approval from the Ministry of Finance to deploy the software which has been tested. Discussion is ongoing with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide a list of Foreign Mission for pilot purposes.”

According to the Managing Director of File Solutions Limited, Prince Nekan Olateru, while speaking said the company concluded all the processes on the technology in the last three years

Hon. Timehin Adelegbe, who is a member of the Committee noted that there was lack of transparency in foreign revenue collection, which the automation of foreign currency collection would correct.

Another member of the Committee, Hon. Sunday Umeha moved a motion that the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Accountant General and other actors in the contract award for Automation of Foreign Currency Collection and Nigeria foreign missions should as a matter of urgency commenced the immediate collection of revenue, using the automated platform within 60 days.

The Committee while expressing displeasure over the Ministry of Finance, the Accountant General, and other actors’ negligence towards the technology that would improve the Country’s Revenue unanimously ordered the commencement of Automation of Foreign Currency Collection and Nigeria’s foreign missions revenue using the automated platform within 60 days without an option of extension.

The Committee further ordered the Accountant General to submit records of the gross revenue generated for all foreign missions in the last five years.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives and 27 State Houses of Assembly and ministers, have resolved to end malnutrition and food insecurity in the country with adequate collaboration.

This was made known at the inauguration of the National Legislative Network on Nutrition and Food Security by the House of Representatives Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, in Abuja, on Monday.

Speaking at the inauguration, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by the Deputy Speaker of the House, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, expressed worries over growing food insecurity in the country.

Abbas said that there was urgent need to address the issue of nutrition and food security as the representatives of the people.

He said: “We are taking concrete steps to restore hope to the suffering masses that will guarantee the enhancement of their well-being.”

The Speaker who promised to initiate a strategic legislative process to tackle malnutrition and food security acknowledged that it is not the best time for the citizenry.

His words: “We need the involvement of the state assembly to attain nutrition and food security, and this move is in the right direction to achieve a greater result. We shared the people’s pains, discomfort, suffering, and depression following the worrisome cost of food items and the decline in nutrition.”

The chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Hon. Chike Okafor, while speaking also said that it was important to note that malnutrition and food insecurity remained a constant threat to socio-economic development in Nigeria.

Okafor also said that this had become an existential threat and that worsening inflation has also aggravated the burden on ordinary Nigerians.

According to Okafor, “There is, however, cause for optimism; the optimism we share stems from the fact that, for the first time, attempts to tackle malnutrition and food insecurity will have a legislative push.

“This legislative perspective will be driven collectively and holistically, anchored on the joint effort of the committees at the National and State Houses of Assembly. This would be driven by a joint work plan with flexibility for the incorporation of state-specific exigencies.”

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman of the of the Conference of Speakers, State Legislators, Mr. Debo Ogundoyin, while contributing also said the wellbeing of the citizenry in the area of food security and nutrition had taken center stage.

Ogundoyin said that it was imperative to carry the states along because it would provide the requisite understanding to tackle the issue.

While expressing commitment of the states’ assemblies to work toward eradicating malnutrition and food insecurity, he stated that Nigeria is one of the deprived countries in Africa when it comes to nourishment for our children.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate also said that there was a need to come together to deal with the issue of malnutrition and that they remained the pillars of President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.

Pate further said that the country had struggled with acute malnutrition and that there was a need to deal with it and the issue of over and undernutrition.

“We have diabetes and hypertension because of the processed food we eat. It is not just the calories, but the diversity of the diet, which is very important. Issues of malnutrition affect the performance of a child in school and their productivity and children’s survival depends on nutrition,” Pate said.

According to the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Mr. Abubakar Baguda, “Nutrition and food security challenges are constitutional and that the three tiers of government must invest more in them.”

“This involves giving each of the three tiers pride of place in what they could do to address the menace. Nutrition is a localized issue; there are differences from one community to the next.

“We need to localize challenges. The resource constraints are one of the challenges of nutrition and food security. Nigeria could find resources to fund its priorities.”

He added that “Nigeria has been underinvesting, and we are determined to change policies”

However, The Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari, noted that, “We need to identify strategies to prevent and alleviate the suffering of our people. Malnutrition is a major issue in Nigeria, affecting most children.”

While listing banditry, kidnapping, and policy frame work, among others, as some of the factors responsible for the manultrition and food crisis in the country, Kyari added that “We are collaborating with ministries and other agencies to ensure food and nutrition security.

“We want to create awareness and collaboration among the three arms of government. This includes development partners to effectively address the manpower and food crises in Nigeria. No family should be denied their basic right to food and nutrition.”

Juliet Akoje in Abuja 

The Northern Ethnic Youth Group Assembly has withdrawn from the August 1st planned protest and has called on Nigerian youths and student bodies to give President Bola Tinubu more time to implement his economic reforms.

According to a statement signed by the spokesperson of the group, Mallam Ibrahim Dan-Musa, Monday, the group acknowledged that the current challenges are the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, which they didn’t protest against at the time.

“Nigeria has faced difficult times, periods of unrest and moments that tested its resilience. The nation has endured and survived, and it’s time to look towards a promising future,” it said.

The group, while urging Nigerians to give President Tinubu a chance, added that there is hope and a sense of possibility that shouldn’t be ignored.

“We appeal to other Arewa groups to acknowledge that Nigeria’s challenges are a shared responsibility. President Tinubu needs more time to implement his plans for the country. The ongoing reforms offer hope for a better future.

“President Tinubu’s presidency presents a fresh opportunity for transformation. Reforms under Tinubu are taking shape, paving the way for a better future. These changes are seen as substantial, forming the foundation for a more secure, prosperous and just nation.

“We are witnessing the dawn of a new era, where mistakes are acknowledged and rectified, and the people’s voices are heard. Now is the time to unite, support the reforms, and hold our leaders accountable. Let’s engage in constructive dialogue, participate actively and ensure our leaders know we are vigilant and invested in our collective future. We must become active participants in shaping our destiny,” it said.

Furthermore, the group stressed that: “Hope is a powerful force. Let’s embrace it with a commitment to making our nation better for all. We owe it to ourselves, our children and the memory of those we lost. Let’s give President Tinubu the time and support needed to implement these vital reforms.

“Let’s watch with open minds and hearts, ready to contribute and collaborate. Together, we can forge a new path for our nation to rise and soar.”

The group however commended the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Audu, for his plans to restart the Ajaokuta Steel Complex’s light section mill which is expected to produce 400,000 metric tonnes of iron rods annually to address road construction and building collapse issues.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Tajudeen Abbas, has said outdated laws and regulations were hindering smooth operations of public institutions responsible for facilitating business activities.

The Speaker said this at a public hearing on five Bills organised by the House Committee on Commerce chaired by Hon Ahmed Munir on Wednesday in Abuja.

The Bills included the establishment of the Chartered Institute of Co-operators and Social Enterprise Management, Institute of Debt Recovery Practitioners of Nigeria, Agro Processing Export Free Zone, Integrated Corporate Data Management Commission, and Institute of Chartered Corporate and ������Ƶ Affairs Management of Nigeria.

Abbas said the Bills were pivotal in fostering growth, innovation, and sustainability in various sectors of our economy and that they had the potential to shape the future of our nation’s economic and business landscape.

“The economic landscape of our country is facing significant challenges, exacerbated by outdated laws and regulations that hinder the smooth operation of public institutions responsible for facilitating business activities.

“These obstacles have created barriers to entry for entrepreneurs and investors, stifling innovation and growth in key sectors of our economy.

“One of the pressing issues we face is the absence of professional bodies to oversee and regulate important sectors such as debt recovery practitioners, co-operators, social entrepreneurs, agro-processing exporters, corporate data management, and corporate affairs management.

“Without proper oversight and regulation, these sectors are vulnerable to exploitation and malpractice, which can have far-reaching consequences on our economy.

“The establishment of these proposed institutions therefore, signifies a proactive approach towards enhancing professionalism, efficiency, and accountability within these key sectors of our economy.

“These institutions will not only provide much-needed oversight but also set standards, ethics, and best practices in their respective fields. By creating specialised bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Co-operators and Social Enterprise Management, we aim to promote cooperative enterprises and social entrepreneurship as viable means for inclusive economic development.”

•BPP urges lawmakers to halt proposed amendment of public procurement act

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon Jonathan Gaza, yesterday, revealed that unlawful mining costs the country $9 billion each year, with the only money coming from a three percent royalty paid by the few licenced miners.

This was as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, disclosed that those involved in illegal mining have connections and so often brag to have links with those at the top.

Also, yesterday, the Bureau for Public Procurement (BPP) urged the House to halt the passage of a bill seeking to amend the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria Act, saying the move would largely bring the institute in conflict with the mandate of the Bureau.

Continuing, Gaza, while speaking at a public hearing organised by the House Committee on Solid minerals development on the need to investigate illegal mining in the solid minerals sector said the development had hampered the country’s ability to maximise benefits from its mineral resources.

He further said the negative impacts of illegal mining has led to insecurity and conflicts over control of mining sites and their resources.

“These conflicts have escalated into violence thereby exacerbating existing political and social tensions in affected communities which has resulted in the limited data availability and inadequate measures to control this illicit practice.

“This public hearing is aimed to investigate illegal mining activities, under-reporting (extract E-Products) by mining and quarry licence operators, utilisation of financial interventions in the Nigerian solid minerals sector amounting to trillions of naira within the solid mineral sector and also the Nigeria minerals and Mining Act (Amendment Bill) and Nigeria solid Minerals Development Company (establishment bill) respectively.

“The leadership of the 10th House of Assembly found it expedient and a sense of duty to carry out these investigative hearings to necessitate transparency and accountability, public participation, policy formation and identify challenges and solutions that will ultimately lead to the revamping of our solid mineral sector.

“As we are all aware, illegal mining poses substantial risks to our nation’s economy, environment and security.”

According to him “The unregulated exploitation of our natural resources jeopardises the sustainability of the mineral sector, leading to environmental degradation and revenue loss that could otherwise benefit our communities and nation as a whole.

“It is imperative that we take as a matter of urgency, decisive steps and necessary action to address this issue and ensure that our solid mineral sector operates within the framework of the law, protecting our natural resources for future generations.

“Furthermore, as representatives of the people, the parliament is deeply worried about the loss of revenue through unregulated and illicit mining operations with the federal government disclosing that unlawful mining costs the country $9 billion each year, with the only money coming from a three per cent royalty paid by the few licenced miners.

“By attentively listening to their testimonies and perspectives, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges posed by illegal mining and develop effective strategies to combat this illicit activity. “Allow me to state emphatically that the time is now, for us to work collaboratively and take immediate and decisive actions to revitalise and develop this critical sector for the overall benefit of benefits all Nigerians while preserving our environment for future generations.”

The Director of Operations, Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ignatius Ilo, who represented the Chief of Defence Staff, while speaking on why illegal mining have continued to take place despite move by the federal government to curtail it, said most people involved in the process have connections backing them up, alleging that foreigners also come into the country to carry out the illegal act.

“The involvement of the elites in it, we can’t tell, but we know that most of the time when we catch these foreigners, they will tell us that they have connections.

“I don’t want to say some things, but sometimes you hand these people over and the next thing you see, they’re released. Talking of illegal mining, I’m going to talk about how the military sees it.

“From our various operations and the statistics that we have, we notice that, first of all, the framework guiding mining in Nigeria is very good. It needs to be strengthened. Why do I say so, sir?”

“In 2018 or so, during the last administration, there was a ban on illegal mining in South Africa, Sinai, Nigeria. Despite that ban, mining licences were being issued to people to mine in that zone. So, the strengthening of the institutional framework is very key.

“The government needs to show their willpower that they actually want to tackle this thing by ensuring that anybody, no matter how highly placed, that is involved in illegal mining, faces the books accordingly.”

The representative of Nigeria Army, Tajudeen Lamidi, who also spoke, said the Nigeria Army had arrested 387 individuals in connection with illegal mining.

Earlier, Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, who was represented by the Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, while declaring the hearing open noted that illegal mining activity was a growing socio-economic challenge in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, the BPP has urged the House to halt passage of a bill seeking to amend the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria Act.

The Bureau also urged the House to discourage the descent into the dark ages and promote a new world where people are poised for choices that provide superior services and products with the highest level of ethical standard and customer service delivery.

The Director of Civil Infrastructure, Nasir Bello, who represented the Director General of the Bureau at the hearing yesterday, stressed that allowing the amendment being sought by the bill would bring the institute in conflict with the mandate of the Bureau.

Bello, during his remark noted that, having reviewed the Bill, the Bureau, he was of the view that allowing the amendment to section 1(c) which seeks to “(c) providing training, education and examination of persons desiring to become professional procures as well as procurement auditors according to the provisions of the Act whether in Nigeria or abroad” would bring it in conflict with section 5(k) of the Public Procurement Act”

“Amending section 12 as contained in the amendment bill will also bring it in conflict with global standards and the provision of the Procurement Act,” adding that the institute should rather focus on its primary role in relation to purchasing procurement, store, materials, warehouse, logistics management or procurement chain management in Nigeria and other parts of the world”

“It should not be allowed to delve into function functions of the Bureau in relation to procurement and Public procurement in particular.

“In carrying out its mandate as stipulated in Section 5 (k) of the PPA, the Bureau has several higher institutions of learning handling courses on Procurement.

“The institute may change its name but the scope of its mandate should remain, as it is contained in its extant law.

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, should the House be inclined towards allowing the proposed amendment (without the Bureau necessarily conceding),” he added.

Earlier, Abbas Tajudeen said the public hearing reinforced the dedication of the House to open, participatory and consultative parliament as enumerated significantly in the legislative agenda.

The Speaker who was represented by Ihonvbare, said public hearing was a key legislative process put in place by the parliament to provide relevant stakeholders and other members of the public a robust window to be part of the parliamentary practice.

Also, the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Procurement, Hon. Unyime Idem, said the bill was a priority because of the important role it has played in shaping professionals in the field of purchasing and supply chain management in Nigeria and the development of high standard professional skill, ability and integrity among all those engaged in procurement practice.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

 The presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) in the 2023 general election, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, yesterday said the change of the party’s logo reflected the belief of the party on education and national development.

Kwankwaso, while speaking during the ceremony in Abuja, said that in the 2023 general election, some supporters of the party could not identify the party’s logo. 

He said: “We thank God that on the 12th of July 2024, we were able to launch our amended constitution, our colours, logo, and flag, which we believe is the best for the party. I’m sure our supporters will be very happy. We didn’t know we had some issues until during the election when we went to the polls, believing that we could identify the logos and I couldn’t identify it, and this created a lot of problems for our voters across the country.

“We resolved that we needed to change that logo because of difficulty in colour separation, and that’s how the change started,” he said.

Speaking at the event, the NNPP National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed, also said the party changed its logo because of the confusion it created in the last general election.

Ahmed further said: “Our experience in the last general election when the old logo with its many colours posed a great challenge in the production of the ballot papers gave us a clear indication that, for the party, going forward, there was an urgent need to do something about the logo especially. In fact, in some cases, our voters were confused by the way the old logo came out in the ballot papers across the country.

“As a party focused on going forward, we did not blame anybody, we did not go to tribunals to challenge anyone on account of the way the logo came out in ballot papers throughout the country. Instead, we went on a mission of dialogue and wide consultations within and outside the party, which took us to where we are today.

“History is being made here today; as a new dawn has arrived for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP). The party is today presenting its new logo to Nigerian voters, which henceforth, will adorn ballot papers in every election in Nigeria, following the approval of the logo by the only body charged with the responsibility of registering and monitoring the activities of political parties and managing elections in Nigeria, i.e. the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“Let me make two quick clarifications here. What we are doing here today is not the unveiling of the new logo. The unveiling was done at the National Executive Committee meeting of the party on Friday, April 5, 2024, and the National Convention on  April 6, 2024. What we are doing here, and I repeat, is to present the logo to Nigerian voters everywhere as the logo they should look out for in ballot papers henceforth anywhere they want to cast their ballot for NNPP in any election held in Nigeria.”

Furthermore, he said: “The second clarification which is very important is that due to the issue of logistics, INEC will still use the old logo for the off-season September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State and the re-run election coming up in Kano State shortly. However, beginning with the November 16, 2024 off-season governorship election in Ondo State, this new logo will be on the ballot papers.”

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives has urged the House Committees on Police to investigate the root cause of the lingering dispute between the Police Service Commission (PSC), and the Inspector-General of Police, with the aim of resolving the issues, proceed with the recruitment process without further delay, and report to the House with recommendations within four weeks. 

The House has also called on the federal government to provide adequate funding and resources necessary to support the recruitment and training of the police officers. 

Consequently, the lawmakers further urged on the federal government to increase the number of police personnel to be recruited and in doing so, ensure the federal character provisions as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution is strictly adhered to. 

These resolutions followed the adoption of a motion on the urgent “Need to Investigate and Settle the Lingering Police Recruitment Dispute Halting The 2023/2024 Police Recruitment,” moved by Hon. Mitema Obordor at plenary on Thursday.

Obordor while presenting the motion noted that “the Nigeria Police Force is the principal law enforcement and lead security agency, established in 1930 from a merger of the two preceding agencies.

“The Northern and Southern Nigeria police, and designated by section 214 of the 1999 Constitution as national police of Nigeria with exclusive jurisdiction to provide civil services, maintain law and order, and protect lives and property.”

He noted that the Nigeria Police Force is a federal government organization consisting of 36 state commands and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), grouped into 17 zones and 8 administrative organs, with a personnel strength of approximately 371,800, and headed by the Inspector-General of police.

According to him, “The Nigeria police is under the supervision of the police Service Commission which has the power to appoint, promote and dismiss all officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) except the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and with the objective of brokering a relationship of trust and confidence between the public and the police”

“In view of the population of Nigeria and the security situation in the country, the ideal police-to-citizen ratio in Nigeria ought to be one police officer to 200 citizens. However, the country currently has a ratio of one police officer to 650 citizens, indicating a significant shortfall in the Nigerian police strength, and far below the United Nations recommendation of one police to 450 citizens”

“The lingering dispute between the Nigeria Police Service Commission and the Inspector-General of Police, which has resulted to an impasse, and regrettably halted the ongoing recruitment process for almost ten months.”

He further stressed that the lingering dispute between the police Service Commission and the Inspector-General of police which has resulted to a halt in the 2023/2024 recruitment process exacerbates the existing shortage of police personnel, undermining the police’s capacity to effectively respond to security threats.

“The critical need to strengthen the Nigerian police force by setting a ratio of one police officer to 200 citizens, or adopt the United Nations recommendation of a ratio of one police officer to 450 citizens to address the escalating security challenges facing our nation.

“The resolution of the lingering dispute between the police service commission and the Inspector-General of police, and the recruitment of additional police officers are crucial to bolstering Nigeria’s security and ensuring the safety of citizens.

“This shortage of police personnel has reduced police presence in communities, thereby leading to a surge in crime rates as criminals take advantage of the situation especially in Bayelsa State, compromised public safety, eroded trust in the police force and the Government’s ability to ensure security.”

He, however, emphasised that the dispute between the Police Service Commission and the Inspector-General of Police which has resulted to a halt in the police recruitment and the attendant capacity shortage and weakness of the Nigerian police may have far-reaching national security implications, potentially emboldening terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has said the digital economy sector is projected to generate N18.3 billion revenue by 2026. Tijani made this known at a stakeholders meeting on the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill.

The meeting was organised on Tuesday in Abuja by the Senate Committee on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Cybersecurity and the House of Representatives Committee on Digital and Information Communication Technology.

Tijani said the sector was the backbone for any economy today and was a prerequisite for any prosperous nation. He added that the bill was long overdue to properly and fully harness the potential of the digital economy sector in the country.

 He stated, “For those who follow the growth and trajectory of our economy in Nigeria, you should probably know that the ICT sector contributes about 13 to 18 percent of GDP. In Q4 2023 the sector contributed about 16.6 percent of GDP.”

The minister disclosed, “The digital economy recorded about N5.49 billion in revenue in 2019. This sector is being projected to generate up to N18.3 billion by 2026.

“Nigeria is one of the top two destinations for capital foreign direct investment to technology staff in Africa. Last year we recorded about $2 billion in FDI to tech start-ups. It will create jobs.

“The sector is extremely special and unique because of its capacity to unlock opportunities and raise productivity in every sector. If the digital economy is strong, it will catalyse development in every other sector.”

He also said, “Here today is a bill that will accelerate the progress in our digital economy. There is no clear legislation that is pushing competition and ensuring development in that digital space.

“Today, this bill, which we are here to support, our hope is also that it will also be the first bill that would travel across the entire country. We have to ensure we take it to every state. It’s an important bill for all Nigerians and we want to give them the opportunity to give us feedback.

“The bill will support the growth and transformation of Nigeria’s economy through the application and use of the digital economy in all facets of life in Nigeria. It will create the enabling environment for fair competition to promote innovation, growth and competitiveness of the Nigerian economy.”

Chairman of the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, Senator Shuaib Salisu, said the bill was important, as it was the first attempt to put an omnibus legislation to cater to online activities.

Salisu said the bill, when enacted into law, would revolutionise the economy and unleash the full potential of the ICT sector.

According to him, “ICT is not just a sector like other sectors. It is a sector that without it other sectors cannot function. This bill was introduced in the senate less than a week ago. We are engaging the media first because the media is critical to the success bill.

“We don’t want this bill to be misunderstood. We want you to have an understanding of what this bill seeks to do. This bill is not about levies; it’s not about commission but creating an environment for the digital economy to thrive and we cannot do that without the partnership of the media.”

Equally, Chairman of the House Committee on Digital and Information Communication Technology, Hon. Stanley Olajide, said the bill was a crucial legislation with the potential to transform the country’s digital economy and position it for sustainable development.

Olajide further said, “The bill, which has undergone first reading in the National Assembly, aims to provide a legal framework for the development and regulation of our digital economy. Furthermore, as we gather here today, I want to emphasise our commitment to an inclusive process in the development of this bill.

“It is going to be very inclusive. We recognise the importance of collaboration and stakeholders in ensuring legislation that reflects the needs and aspirations of Nigerians. This event marks the beginning of a series of engagements with various stakeholders and the general public.

“It is a comprehensive legislation that seeks to establish a regulatory framework for the digital economy for digital literacy and skills development, enhanced cyber security and encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. It has the potential to unlock Nigeria’s digital potential and improve the lives of Nigerians”

Director-General of National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, said the essence of the bill was to serve as an enabler.

Inuwa, represented by Acting Director of NITDA, Emmanuel Edet, said regarding the bill, “It is to enhance the use of the digital economy in the entire country, especially in government as well as in the private sector.

“As you may understand, the ecosystem is growing and there is a need for us to harness the potential of this ecosystem in order for us to develop our economic desires based on the advantages we have in terms of population, capacity and other facilities that are available. The bill basically tries to ensure that digital technologies are accommodated in our day to day lives and experiences.”

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday passed for second reading the bill for an Act to establish the Nigerian Solid Minerals Communities Development Commission  (NSMCDC).

The bill which seeks to provide a legal framework to establish the commission to complement what was achieved with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) was sponsored by Anamero Dekeri, Abubakar Nalaraba, Akarachi Amadi and  Adedeji Olajide scaled through second reading at plenary.

Dekeri while presenting the bill said solid minerals were the bedrock of Nigeria’s economic strength in the years before independence.

He said: “These riches were not simply hoarded; they were wisely invested. The roads we travel on, the schools our children attend, the hospitals that care for the sick – all these were built on the foundation of solid minerals.

“Even the oil industry, the lifeblood of our modern economy, received its initial spark from these resources.

“We must awaken this sleeping giant, unlock the potential of our solid minerals once more, and write a new chapter of prosperity for all Nigerians, as every component state of our nation is a potential solid mineral-producing state.

“These minerals are not just buried treasures; they are the launchpad that will propel all of Nigeria forward.

“The establishment of the commission will diversify, boost income for virtually all states of the federation, promote inclusiveness, increase our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) for the benefit of Nigerians”

Juliet Akoje in Abuja

The House of Representatives said at the weekend that there was no bill before it seeking Nigeria’s return to regional government either as a private member bill or an executive bill.

Spokesman of the House, Hon. Akintunde Rotimi, said in a statement that the proposal circulating on social media is also not before the House Committee on Constitution Review as a memorandum.

Rotimi dismissed insinuations that the House rejected or disowned the bill, saying it neither disowned nor rejected the proposal since it was never presented before it in any form.

The statement explained: “The House wishes to reiterate its position, educating the public that there are three main routes to proposing constitutional amendments in the House of Representatives.”

The routes, he said, include a member proposing a constitutional amendment bill, by individual citizens and groups submitting memoranda to the Constitution Review Committee, which should be submitted to the House and sponsored by a member as well as an executive bill to be submitted by the executive arm of government.

The statement further stressed: “Regarding the specific memo authored by a citizen Dr. Akin Fapohunda, the House argued that his proposal has not come before the House Committee on Rules and ������Ƶ for listing as a bill by any member, nor has it been submitted by way of memorandum to the House Committee on Constitution Review.

“To clarify the misinformation, the House states that contrary to inaccurate reports suggesting that the House “disowned the bill” or “rejected the bill,” the House has neither disowned nor owned the proposal.

“The position provided earlier was to inform the public that the proposal is not before the House for consideration at this material time.

“The House of Representatives encourages healthy and progressive debates on any subject and the exchange of ideas on how to improve our country.

“However, the constitution review process has clearly defined guidelines and limitations and involves a broad range of stakeholders to ensure that the collective will of the good people of Nigeria is reflected in the constitutional amendments underway.

“The legislative agenda of the 10th Assembly prioritises inclusion and engagement. We are committed to facilitating a constitution review process that ensures all voices are heard. For more information, individuals and groups can contact the House Committee on Constitution Review.

“We encourage the media to accurately report and frame public discourse in a way that promotes national cohesion. The document being circulated is not a bill, as it is not before parliament, and is, at best, a memo or proposal by a citizen,” the statement added.