NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
FG restates commitment to reform NIS
Economy/Business

FG restates commitment to reform NIS

358 total views today

Reforms

By Abiodun Azi

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, says the Federal Government is committed to implementing various reforms in the ministry and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS).

Tunji-Ojo spoke to newsmen in Lagos on Tuesday after a meeting with the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).

The minister described the gathering as a “family meeting,” emphasising NECA’s role as a strategic partner.

He acknowledged the critical contributions of the private sector to socio-economic development.

He said the meeting focused on reviewing strategies, enhancing government performance, promoting private sector growth, and making decisions that aligned with the interests of Nigerians and the economy.

“It is not just about CERPAC reforms alone, there were a lot of reforms because it is our responsibility to make life easier for Nigerians and expatriates.

“We need strategic partnership with NECA, affiliate organisations and other agencies; we need to cooperate to take decisions as a team.

” What’s important to us is what is important to them and what’s that? Interest of Nigerians, ” he said.

According to the minister, this is our country and we can actually do the unimaginable.

“We can achieve the seemingly unachievable when we are united in our approach and understanding,” saying, ” we have shared values.”

He reassured Nigerians that the ministry of interior in line with its citizenship business responsibilities was actively collaborating to realise its set objectives.

He hinted that there was an agreement for these meetings to occur at least twice a year, rather than being a one-off event, particularly to address their concerns, especially those affecting their businesses.

Tunji-Ojo said that reforms had to continue, noting that it was a work in progress.

According to him, a lot has been done with regard to CERPAC, expatriate quota, business permit and a lot of things, even work flow in terms of border control and how it affects NIS.

In his remarks, the Director-General of NECA, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, stated that while governance was often seen as complex and challenging, “when you have visionaries running the system, you realise it is one of the simplest things to do.”

Oyerinde noted that a key aspect of the discussions was the need for stakeholders to engage constructively.

He added that all stakeholders in the Nigerian project commended the government for opening channels of engagement.

He highlighted that the most significant outcome was the consensus to establish a committee that would collaborate to review several key issues.

He said that work on all the identified areas would commence within the next week.(NAN)

Editing by Kevin Okunzuwa

FG moves to cut trade, transport costs
Economy/Business

FG moves to cut trade, transport costs

357 total views today

Costs

By Vivian Emoni

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing the cost of transporting goods and services by air, land, and sea to boost production across the country.

Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, made this known during a ministerial briefing organised by the Ministry of Information and Cultural Orientation on Tuesday in Abuja.

She stated that these efforts would ensure faster delivery of goods and services, reduce costs, and expand the country’s global trade reach.

“We are exploring direct cargo freight across Africa for our traders because Nigerians engage in significant trade. This will help bring them together.

“We aim to lower cargo freight costs. That is one of the key initiatives the ministry is undertaking to fulfil our mandate,” Oduwole said.

She added, “As we can see, the cost of production is gradually decreasing, and we will continue working to strengthen our economy.”

The minister noted that the ministry was collaborating with Independent Power Producers (IPP) nationwide.

“This partnership with the private sector aims to enhance power supply, which will significantly boost the country’s economic growth,” she said.

Oduwole also confirmed ongoing efforts to improve tariff schedules, ensuring that products can move freely across different payment systems.

She said the ministry was working with the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigeria Immigration Service to streamline procedures, rules, and value chains for trade facilitation.

According to her, the ministry is also focused on making Nigeria an attractive investment destination, which requires a conducive environment and favourable tariffs.

“That is why we continue to engage with the fiscal and monetary arms of government.

“Our goal is to champion trade and industry, ensuring policies support business growth and economic expansion,” she stated.

She highlighted collaborations with more than 50 federal agencies to improve business processes and transparency.

“My team and I are dedicated to simplifying processes and enhancing transparency, which is a priority for me.

“We continuously seek new pathways to prevent unintended consequences in our policies and ensure they support businesses and traders,” Oduwole said.

She emphasised that Nigerian businesses were already expanding across Africa, moving ahead of government-led initiatives.

To achieve its objectives, the ministry has partnered with key ministries, strengthening collaboration to drive investment, trade, and industry.

“We are working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, and the Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy.

“Through these partnerships, we aim to create an environment where investment, industry, and trade can thrive within Nigeria’s economy,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki / Kamal Tayo Oropo

Interior Ministry targets holistic reform of correctional service
Defence/Security

Interior Ministry targets holistic reform of correctional service

348 total views today

Reform

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, has reiterated the commitment of the ministry to achieving a holistic reform of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Ajani stated this during the second public hearing of the independent Investigative panel to address the alleged corruption, abuse of power, torture, cruel, inhumane, degrading treatment against NCoS on Tuesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Minister of Interior, Dr.Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had in Sept. 2024 inaugurated the panel to probe allegations of corruption and gross abuse of office levelled against some personnel of the NCoS.

NAN reports that Tunji-Ojo who is also the Chairman of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), suspended several officers overseeing the Maximum and Minimum Custodial Centres in Kirikiri, Lagos State.

This followed allegations of misconduct involving the handling of cross-dresser Idris Okuneye, popularly known as Bobrisky.

Ajani, who doubled as the Chairman of the investigative panel said that one of the ultimate goals of the committee was to ensure that the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019 was fully implemented.

She added that both custodial and non-custodial measures should be clearly implemented across the country.

“This is an investigative committee that has to deal with torture and what is going on in our correctional service.

“The committee’s objective is to identify the challenges facing the correctional service and to proffer solutions that will lead to a holistic reform of the service.

“We want to ensure that the correctional service is transformed into a modern, efficient, and humane institution that meets international standards.

“The committee has been listening to contributions from stakeholders, including the correctional service, and has identified challenges in implementing the act.

“This is particularly with regards to magistrates and judges who claim that some sections of the act are unknown to them,” she said.

Ajani expressed hope that by the end of the public hearing, the committee would have been able to discuss the observations and challenges raised by the correctional service and identify ways to address them.

In his presentation, the NCoS Controller General, Sylvester Nwakuche appealed to the judiciary to better understand the provisions of the NCoS Act 2019, which had been a challenge for the service in implementing correctional decisions.

Nwakuche, who was represented by Ibrahim Idris, an Assistant Controller General (ACG), said that the NCoS had been facing difficulties in implementing the Act due to a lack of understanding from the judiciary.

According to him, the NCoS had been working diligently to implement the provisions of the Act, but the lack of understanding from the judiciary has been a major challenge.

“We are appealing to the judiciary to help us understand the spirit of the law.

“It is extremely difficult for correctional officers to disobey court orders, but sometimes the courts don’t understand the provisions of the Act,”he said.

“We are not asking for too much. We just want the judiciary to understand the provisions of the Act and work with us to implement correctional decisions,” he said.(NAN)
Edited by Yakubu Uba

Food insecurity: IITA set to transform Sierra Leone, Africa’s agriculture
Agriculture

Food insecurity: IITA set to transform Sierra Leone, Africa’s agriculture

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Transformation

By Suleiman Shehu

Dr Simeon Ehui, Director-General (DG), International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), has reiterated the institute’s readiness to transform agriculture and address food insecurity in Sierra Leone and other African countries.

Ehui stated this during the official visit of the President of Sierra Leone, Dr Julius Bio, to the institute in Ibadan on Tuesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports the theme of the presidential visit is “The Power of Improved Technologies and Public-Private Partnerships to Accelerate the Feed Salone Strategy”.

The DG noted that the institution’s existing technology and innovation in cassava, maize, soybeans, and other crops had improved productivity, increased income, and strengthened security for millions of Africans.

“Sierra Leone stands a chance of agricultural revolution through collaboration with IITA.

“We can accelerate the deployment of high-yielding pest resistance and climate-resilient crops tailored to the country’s agricultural condition,” Ehui said.

According to him, science alone will not transform agriculture, but with partnerships, research and investment, farmers empowered with tools and finance needed to thrive will drive Africa’s required agricultural transformation.

He said that Sierra Leone had an opportunity to harness Public-Private Partnership to drive large-scale agricultural transformation.

“With the right partnership, we can turn ambition into action and action into impact in IITA.

“The future of Sierra Leone food security is not a distant goal; it begins here, and the conversation here must transfer into commitment,” he said.

Ehui said IITA was ready to work with the government of Sierra Leone to scale up technology, build human capital, support agribusiness and transform the country’s agriculture.

The President of Sierra Leone, Julius Bio, commended IITA for consistently driving agricultural transformation in Africa and being a dependable partner.

Bio said food insecurity challenges in Africa required coordinated efforts across multiple sectors and strong political will at the highest level.

“I am here because I think the political will exist in Sierra Leone to support the country’s food system transformation.

“I firmly believe that research, innovation, and technology are the forces we must harness in order to drive Africa forward, transform the future of agriculture in Africa, and create opportunities for African farmers,” he said.

He said his trip to Nigeria was part of his dedication to innovative ideas to create a world-class food system in Sierra Leone and foster progress for farmers and agribusiness.

Earlier, Dr Marcus Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, said Nigeria’s agricultural transformation efforts had provided a strong foundation for collaboration with Sierra Leone.

Ogunbiyi said both countries could accelerate agricultural development, enhance food security and promote regional growth through partnership, shared experience and innovation. (NAN)

Edited by Moses Solanke

 Kwali community begins documentation of artefacts to boost tourism
Community

 Kwali community begins documentation of artefacts to boost tourism

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Tourism

By Veronica Dariya

The Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, has announced plans to document historical artifacts in Kwali community to enhance and promote tourism in the area.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja, the traditional ruler stated that the initiative would include factual accounts of potential tourist sites, particularly those linked to the renowned potter, Dr Ladi Kwali.

Nizassan revealed that he had already identified and profiled various tourist attractions within the community, including the restored gravesite of Kwali, “which is expected to boost the area’s tourism potential.

“This community holds the greatest tourism potential in the FCT because it is the home of Dr Ladi Kwali. I am one of her grandsons,” he said.

“Her gravesite has been developed, and we have documented all potential tourist sites. We are exploring ways to develop them so that the community can benefit from the tourism economy.”

He added that discussions had already began with the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Social Development Secretariat and the Director of Tourism on how to harness the area’s tourism potential.

“One step I have taken is to engage the services of archaeologists to date some of the historical remains we have,” he said.

“This is to enrich our history as a people and also to be able to have factual stories about these tourist sites.

“This is the best way to profile stories sites if there are true stories behind them and not myths.

“We want to tell the true stories about ourselves; to make sure that the dates are appropriate and built from proper facts.”

The chief added that the move would also alter the false and misinterpretation of the history of people of Kwali community, as earlier presumed by some writers and historians.

He stated that presenting factual accounts directly from the indigenous people of the community would provide an authentic representation of its history, thereby attracting visitors to the unique settlement.

“We are working to discard inaccurate narratives and share the true stories about ourselves,” he said.

“We believe that once these stories are shared, people will become curious to learn more about us and will visit our community.”

Nizassan also mentioned that his chiefdom was collaborating with private investors to develop resorts and hotels in the area.

According to him, this initiative will enable visitors to enjoy the serene environment as a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

He described his people as hospitable and welcoming, adding that tourism would offer visitors a firsthand opportunity to experience the rich culture and heritage of the community.(NAN)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Kevin Okunzuwa

Tinubu appoints Shamsedeen Ogunjimi Accountant General of the Federation
Economy/Business

Tinubu appoints Shamsedeen Ogunjimi Accountant General of the Federation

323 total views today

Appointment

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Shamsedeen Ogunjimi as the new Accountant General of the Federation after a rigorous selection processes.

His appointment, approved on Tuesday, takes effect from March 7, 2025, the same day the incumbent Oluwatoyin Madehin will retire, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Spokesman, said in a statement.

Ogunjimi, 57, was first named as Madehin’s successor last December.

“A selection committee later picked him through a competitive, rigorous, and merit-based process involving Directors of Accounts in the Federal Civil Service.

“The committee conducted the process through three stages: a written assessment, an ICT proficiency test, and oral interview.

“The selection process underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting transparency, excellence, and competence in key public service positions,” said the statement.

Ogunjimi graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1990 with a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy.

He also obtained a Master’s in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos.

He is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.

Tinubu congratulated Ogunjimi on his appointment and urged him to discharge his duties in the service of Nigeria with integrity, professionalism, and dedication to Nigeria’s service. (NAN)

Edited by Joe Idika

Police detain mother for  assaulting 9-yr old son with pestle in Ekiti
Defence/Security

Police detain mother for  assaulting 9-yr old son with pestle in Ekiti

359 total views today

Arrest

By Bolanle Lawal

Operatives of the Amotekun Security Network, Efon-Alaaye Command, have handed over 43-year-old Mrs Damilola Clement to the police for allegedly hitting her 9-year-old son on the head with a pestle.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that details of the incident were contained in a statement signed by Amotekun’s Head of Communications, Adewale Adeleye, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Ekiti.

According to the statement, the suspect, who hails from Akure, Ondo State, committed the act at her residence in Efon-Alaaye during a scuffle with her son over an undisclosed issue.

Adeleye said the suspect allegedly confessed to the crime, claiming it was meant as punishment for her son’s repeated wrongdoings.

He, however, added that the suspect had been handed over to the Efon-Ekiti Police Division for further investigation, while the injured boy was receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in the town. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Editing by Kevin Okunzuwa

2025 budget roadmap for economic resilience, national progress– Minister
Economy/Business

2025 budget roadmap for economic resilience, national progress– Minister

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Budget
By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, says the 2025 budget is a strategic roadmap for economic resilience, social stability and national progress.

Idris stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the third edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing for 2025.

According to the minister, this year’s budget places a renewed focus on investment in critical sectors that directly impact the well-being and socio-economic development of the country.

“The 2025 budget is not just a financial document; it is a bold statement of intent – a roadmap for economic resilience, social stability and national progress,”he said.

The budget, he added, had demonstrated a renewed focus on security, infrastructure, education, health, solid minerals, agriculture and other key areas.

“This year, 2025, is set to be the year of consolidation – a year where all the transformative reforms initiated by President Tinubu’s administration begin to bear tangible fruits in the lives of Nigerians.

“Already, we are witnessing a gradual reduction in the prices of foodstuffs, which is bringing much-needed relief to the people,” he said.

The minister reaffirmed the government’s determination to ensure efficient budget implementation, transparency and accountability in delivering the promises of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu.

“Let me give the assurances that the Federal Government remains committed to the efficient implementation of this budget in order to maximise its full impact on the lives of our citizens.

“I, therefore, call on all Nigerians to support these efforts and join hands in building a prosperous and united Nigeria,” he said.

The minister thanked journalists for the coverage of the briefing sessions, acknowledging their crucial role in disseminating factual, balanced and development-focused reports.

He emphasised that their efforts were essential in consolidating the gains of the nation’s democracy and ensuring that Nigerians remained well-informed.

According to Idris, democracy only thrives on informed discourse, constructive engagement and a shared commitment to national progress.

He said the media remained crucial in strengthening the country’s democracy by promoting public participation in governance.

The minister, however, urged the media to uphold the highest standards of accuracy, responsibility and professionalism in their reports.

“In an era where misinformation and sensationalism can easily distort public perception, your commitment to truth and fairness is more important than ever.

“We must work together to ensure that the narratives shaping public discourse reflect the realities of governance, devoid of bias or undue sensationalism,” he said.

The third edition of the briefing session featured the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State in the ministry, Sen. John Enoh.(NAN)

(Edited by Shuaib Sadiq/Mufutau Ojo)

AEDC reclaims stolen power assets from police
General News

AEDC reclaims stolen power assets from police

300 total views today

Cables

By Constance Athekame

The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) says it has taken delivery of vandalised electricity cables recovered by the Police Command in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

AEDC’s Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Adefisayo Akinsanya disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday.

Akinsanya stated that the formal handover of the recovered items was done by the FCT Commissioner of Police (CP) Tunji Disu, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Operations, Ishaku Sharu.

Akinsanya said that the recovery followed a coordinated security operations aimed at cracking down on vandalism and illegal activities that threatened electricity distribution across the FCT and its environs.

According to her, the Managing Director of AEDC, Mr Chijioke Okwuokenye, has expressed deep appreciation to the security agencies for their relentless efforts, reaffirming the company’s zero-tolerance stance on vandalism.

“We commend police command in the FCT and other security operatives for their unwavering dedication to recovering these vandalism as such collaborative efforts are crucial in safeguarding national infrastructure and enhancing power reliability.

“This successful operation serves as a powerful message that acts of sabotage will not go unpunished.

“Vandalism is not just a crime against AEDC; it is an attack on our communities, depriving homes, businesses, and critical services of power and AEDC will not relent in its fight against such criminal acts,’’ Okwuokenye said.

He said that the company would pursue every legal measure to bring perpetrators of act of vandalism to justice.

The managing director called on community leaders, residents, and all stakeholders to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

He said that AEDC had established multiple whistleblowing channels to facilitate anonymous and secure reporting of suspicious activities, adding that the move was to encourage public participation in combating vandalism.

“AEDC remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting and improving power supply across its network.

“We will continue to invest in infrastructure, strengthen security measures, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted electricity for our customers.

“By working together, we can create a more resilient and sustainable power system that drives economic growth and national development,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Navy destroys 3 illegal refining sites in Delta
General News

Navy destroys 3 illegal refining sites in Delta

365 total views today

Sites

The Forward Operating Base (FOB) Escravos of the Nigerian Navy has deactivated three illegal refining sites in Delta.

Navy Capt. Ikenna Okoloagu, Commanding Officer of the FOB Escravos,  disclosed this to newsmen on Tuesday in Warri.

Okoloagu said  the illegal refining sites were deactivated on Tuesday at
Obodo, in Omadinho Community, Warri South- West Local Government Area of Delta.

“The Nigerian navy’s fight against crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other acts of economic sabotage has yielded another result.

“The FOB, Escravos discovered and deactivated three illegal refining sites at Obodo in Omadinho Community on Tuesday.

“The sites were laden with about 3,700 litres of stolen crude oil and 2,600 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gasoline Oil (AGO).

“The products were contained in five ovens, 12 dug out pits and 33 polythene sacks,”he said.

Okoloagu attributed success of the operations to credible information, in line with the ongoing Operation DELTA SANITY II.

The navy captain said the operation further highlighted  commitment of the Base to achieving dictates of the Strategic Directives of the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla,  aimed at eradicating illegalities in maritime space.

Okoloagu warned saboteurs in the oil sector to desist, noting that anyone caught would be prosecuted accordingly.

He, however, assured that the perpetrators do not have the freedom to carry out their illegalities in its areas of responsibilities.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)  recalls  that the Base recently deactivated four illegal refining sites in the same community. (NAN)
Edited by Remi Koleoso/Chioma Ugboma

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