NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Sports

Gateway Games will test Nigeria’s sports reforms- Dikko

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By Muhyideen Jimoh

The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, says the upcoming National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun will serve as a major test of the  Federal Government’s ongoing sports reforms.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the festival termed ‘Gateway Games’ is slated for May 16 to May 30.

Dikko stated this while delivering a keynote address virtually from Milan, Italy, at the opening ceremony of the Extraordinary National Council on Sports meeting on Tuesday in Abeokuta.

“An Olympics-standard National Sports Festival in Abeokuta will be the true test of the ongoing reforms in the Nigerian sports sector,” he said.

Dikko commended President Bola Tinubu for the bold decision to replace the Federal Ministry of Sports with the NSC.

He said  that the decision marked a significant turning point for the sector.

“Mr President is known  for taking very bold decisions. The decision to reintroduce the NSC was a very bold one and truly challenged us.

“We aligned with the President’s Renewed Hope and Shared Prosperity agenda by launching the Renewed Hope Initiative for the Nigerian Sports Economy (RHINSE).

“This reform agenda has taken us down a road less traveled,we are no longer competition-driven but focused on the holistic development of sports, from grassroots to elite levels,” he said.

The NSC boss emphasised the need for private sector involvement, infrastructure upgrades, and greater attention to grassroots and school sports.

“We must prioritise talent development. If done right, Nigeria can generate significant revenue through the export of sporting talent.

“The goal is to make sports a major contributor to the national economy,” he added.

He said the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta should set a new benchmark and aim for an Olympics-standard event that defines future editions.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh

General News

I’m honoured to be named spokesperson of the year – Soneye

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By Emmanuella Anokam

Mr Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), says he will continue to raise the bar in public communication and also serve the Nigerian public with integrity.

Soneye said this on Thursday in Abuja in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) following his emergence as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Spokesperson for 2025.

“I am deeply honoured to be named Spokesperson of the Year by the NIPR. This recognition is not mine alone, it belongs to the exceptional team I work with every day.”

NAN reports that Soneye brushed aside other contestants in a keen contest by the nominees at the NIPR 2025 award held in Abuja on Wednesday night.

He defeated Shell Petroleum’s Igo Weli, Nigeria Police Force spokesman, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Sifax Group Olumuyiwa Akande, and Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) spokespersons, Mr Osagie Edward, to clinch the award.

His triumph in the NIPR 2025 award started from the category of the Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas) from which he outran Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Chief Chinedu Ukadike and Shell Petroleum, Igo Weli.

Soneye, while reacting to the award, said that he made a vow to be a transparent and professional spokesperson, committed to timely, accurate and impactful communication.

“This award reinforces our shared dedication to raising the bar in public communication and serving the Nigerian public with integrity.

“As I always say, NNPC is our collective asset and belongs to all Nigerians.

“We remain committed to keeping the public informed and involved in our activities, as we continue to ensure energy security for our nation,” he said.

Dr Shaibu Hussein, Chairman, Adjudication Committee, said the award selection process was rigorous and demanding.

Hussein, who was represented by a member of the committee, Lami Tuiaka, said that Soneye’s victory was predicated on his communication skills, crisis management and overall impact.

“Soneye’s capacity to shape public opinion also stood him out from the crowd of other spokespersons.

“Our committee, comprising communication scholars, PR practitioners and media personalities worked tirelessly to review the nomination, assess performances and deliberate on the winner.

“I must report that we carefully examined each nomination, considering factors such as communication skills, crisis management and overall impact,” Hussein said.

It would be recalled that Soneye had in 2024 defeated the spokesperson of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Michael Adande and the spokesperson of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Limited, Dr Johnson Nkwocha to clinch to the “Distinguished Spokesperson in Oil and Gas” award.

In 2025, the NIPR depicted Soneye as a “diligent” spokesperson, describing him as a “strategist”. (NAN)(www.nannwws.ng)

Edited by Emmanuel Afonne

Politics

MC Tagwaye declares interest in 2026 AMAC chairmanship election 

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By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Mr Obinna Simon, popularly known as MC Tagwaye, has officially declared his intention to contest for the chairmanship of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in the 2026 election on the platform of Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Simon disclosed this at a news conference in Abuja on Wednesday, highlighting his commitment to transforming the local government and addressing long-standing issues.

He promised more inclusive, progressive and sustainable AMAC, if elected as the council’s next chairman.

“My vision for AMAC is one of progress, inclusivity and sustainable development.

“I am driven by a profound conviction that I can catalyse transformative changes in AMAC by championing causes that uplift marginalided communities and advocate for policies that tackle our most pressing challenges,” he said.

While recalling his background as an educator with over eight years of teaching experience, MC Tagwaye announced his plans to prioritise education in AMAC.

“The first thing I will do as chairman is declare a state of emergency in education.

“Our children deserve quality education that prepares them to compete nationally and globally,” he said.

While evaluating the current AMAC administration, MC Tagwaye said: “My rating for the current administration is very low.

“Over 70 per cent of residents in AMAC do not even know who the chairman is, which reflects a leadership absence from the community.

“I personally visited all the 12 wards of AMAC, and there is a stark picture of neglect and poor infrastructure.

“There are places where vehicles can’t even reach. The roads are terribly bad. In a community in Sauka, a school which my foundation visited, teachers and students often have to use neighbouring homes or even the bush as toilets.

“This is in the FCT, just on the way to the airport,” he said.

The chairmanship hopeful called on residents of the council area to support his aspiration, saying that they should work together for a brighter future.

“I ask for your support, your vote and your prayers. Together, we can make a difference,” he said.

He expressed deep satisfaction with SDP, describing the party’s support as “tremendous” and as one free from internal crises plaguing other political parties.

“I have no regret joining SDP. The way they have treated me and my aspirations has been extremely wonderful. I encourage a lot of people to come to SDP,” he said.

He criticised the current AMAC chairman’s recent defection to another party, describing it as a sign of lack of direction and commitment to the people.

“At my age, I should leave legacies. That is why I’m coming to bring new ideas, experience and education to the table,” he said.

MC Tagwaye’s Campaign Director-General, Malam Abubakar Bello, described the event as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward effective leadership and grassroots development.

Bello explained that Nigeria’s leadership had historically been centered around national figures like presidents and ministers, while local governance often remained neglected.

“Local governance in Nigeria, including AMAC, lacks essential services, while education is under-funded and poorly managed.

“Schools lack proper infrastructure, with children still sitting on bare floors, deprived of seats and learning materials.

“This stark reality underscores the urgent need for grassroots leadership that can bring tangible change from the ground up,” he said.

Bello urged Nigerians to support the new leadership, emphasising that Nigeria’s future depends on collective efforts, resource allocation and unwavering support for leaders who genuinely serve the people. (NAN)(www.nanannews.ng)

Edited by Yinusa Ishola/’Wale Sadeeq

Defence/Security

Emergency response: NAF operationalises 8 upgraded fire trucks 

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday in Abuja, unveiled eight fully modernised fire trucks in a decisive step to enhance emergency response capabilities and strengthen community safety.

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said the eight were the first batch as part of a broader initiative to upgrade 19 units across the service.

Abubakar described the feat as a demonstration of NAF’s commitment to both national defence and humanitarian support.

He said it was a demonstration of NAF’s commitment and operational readiness as a fighting force and a responsible institution devoted to supporting its bases and host communities with quality emergency services.

He said the milestone was in line with the core aim of his command philosophy to reposition the NAF to better defend the nation’s territorial integrity through enhanced air capabilities.

“We have prioritised air operations, focusing on fleet expansion, combat readiness, and operational safety.

“In line with this, around 1,500 personnel have received training in various safety disciplines this year, highlighting our dedication to a safety-conscious force,’’ he said.

The CAS also revealed that a key part of the on-going safety reforms was a comprehensive overhaul of fire safety systems and the development of a centralised monitoring framework.

This, according to him, is intended to improve compliance, enable early risk identification, and support evidence-based decision-making across the service.

“This initiative is another giant stride towards securing not just the skies but also the lives and properties within our bases and surrounding communities.

“It underscores our integrated approach to national service, which combines military excellence with humanitarian responsibility,” he added.

The fire tenders were upgraded through a comprehensive technical overhaul conducted by Messrs Afrodezt Global Services Limited, an indigenous engineering firm.

In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of the firm, Emmanuel Oluguo, said the upgrades incorporated higher-capacity components and cutting-edge fire fighting systems designed to extend vehicle lifespan and significantly enhance operational efficiency.

Oluguo said the company handled both mechanical, electrical and overhauling of the pump system from analogue to present modern fire fighting trucks.

He said the fire trucks that were manufactured in 1982 and 1983 were converted and installed with a modern pumping system of 2022 and 2023. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Business

NSIA posts net returns of N1.88trn in 2024

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By Okeoghene Akubuike

The Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) says it posted a Net return of N1.88 trillion for Financial Year 2024, up from the N1.18 trillion recorded in 2023.

The Managing Director/CEO of NSIA, Aminu Umar-Sadiq, disclosed this while presenting its 2024 Earnings at a Media Engagement on Wednesday in Abuja.

Umar-Sadiq said the NSIA showed strong financial performance in spite of the volatile global economic landscape.

He said the authority was able to achieve this through a dedicated and committed team that adopted four tactical and change strategies in 2024.

“2024 was special because we found a way to enhance a set of 2023 results that were remarkable.

“We went from Net returns of N1.18 trillion in 2023 to N1.885 trillion in 2024. We will continue to wonder how we will top that in 2025 but with the combination of teams.

“On tactical basis, we have done four things right.

“Firstly, is efficient balance sheet optimisation. We continue to be defensive, particularly on our stabilisation and future generation funds.

“Secondly, we focused on sustainable earning on the infrastructure side; thirdly, we focused on pioneering infrastructure investment; and lastly, cost efficiency.”

Umar-Sadiq said in 2024, the authority inaugurated the Ministry of Health Oncology initiative, aimed at building one world-class oncology centre in each zone on behalf of the Federal Government.

He said the NSIA recorded a 150 per cent increase in returns on Core Total Comprehensive Income(TCI) growth in 2024.

“ We had N165 billion in terms of Core TCI in 2003 and we are at N407.9 billion in 2024.

“ This increase of 150 per cent on core basis, when you strip out the impact of foreign exchange gains and derivative valuation gains, you see core basis increased our returns by 150 per cent.

 

“That goes to show the strength of the institution not only on the operational or infrastructure side but more importantly on the financial performance side.“

The managing director said in 2025, the NSIA would drive three key things, which include driving certain NSIA platforms, augmentation of its capital(growing on a Naira and Dollar basis ) and core income growth.

Victor Sesere, Chief Financial Officer, NSIA, said the operating income of the authority grew by 58 per cent on a year-on-year basis, from N1.176 trillion in 2023 to N1.853 trillion in 2024.

Sesere said the operating income growth was driven by strong performance across major income lines, with both market-sensitive and stable revenue lines achieving above single-digit increases.

He said the authority recorded a 59 per cent increase in its Profit After Tax in 2024 on a year-on-year basis from N1.185 trillion in 2023 to N1.886 trillion in 2024.

“Total assets grew by over 90 per cent, primarily driven by increased investment in securities and the revaluation of foreign currency-denominated assets.

“ In spite of the impact of foreign exchange gains on this year’s TCI, NSIA achieved its strongest performance in Core TCI in 2024, underscoring management’s commitment to generating stable, non-volatile earnings.”

Sesere said the total contribution the NSIA had received from the Federal Government cumulatively was 1.8 billion dollars, while it had retained and further reinvested one billion dollars cumulatively into the business.

“So we have actually made an extra one billion dollars, and if you add that together, that gives you what our total net assets is, which is 2.8 billion dollars.”

Mr Kolawole Owodunni, the Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer, said the NSIA had three core funds which included the Stabilisation Fund, Future Generations Fund and the Nigeria Infrastructure Fund(NIF).

Owodunni said that the NIF was anchored on three pillars which are direct investment, co-investment and creation of institutions.

“ For our investment strategy, we look for projects that have nationwide strategic impact, attract foreign and local capital, attract commercial and social returns, and projects that have a conducive legal and regulatory environment.”

Owodunni listed some key projects under the NIF including the MEDSERVE, which aims to establish 23 diagnostic centres, seven catheterisation labs, and three oncology centres across the six geopolitical zones and the FCT.

Ijeoma Taylaur, the Chief Operating Officer, NSIA, said beyond providing financial returns to stakeholders, the authority was focused on driving value and enhancing performance as well as preserving capital.

“We do this through many strategies which include risk management by minimising losses.”

Taylaur said the authority was driving value creation through subsidiaries.

“For over a decade, NSIA successfully built and nurtured a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries across various sectors that contribute meaningfully to the national economy.

“Our approach is rooted in strong governance, robust risk management, and a strong operational focus. These have enabled us to optimize performance while adhering to our long-term strategic objectives.”

She listed some subsidiaries to include Green Guarantee Company, Development Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund, NSIA Prize for Innovation, Presidential Fertilizer Initiative and Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu

General News

Presidency, EdTech partner to empower young talents

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By Aderogba George

The Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Capacity Development has partnered with an EdTech platform, Stability and Sustenance, to harness the talent potential inherent in Nigerians.

Mr Sadiq Rabiu, the Special Assistant to the President on Capacity Development, announced the partnership at a news conference on Tuesday in Abuja.

He stated that the partnership aims to advance the ongoing National Capacity Development Training Initiative, a flagship programme of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Rabiu explained that the initiative seeks to empower one million Nigerians across the six geo-political zones by 2025.

“The One Million Capacity Development Training Initiative is a national effort launched under President Tinubu’s administration as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“It represents a bold commitment to economic self-reliance, job creation, and unlocking the full potential of our citizens,” he said.

He described the collaboration with Stability and Sustenance as a major milestone.

“With their innovation-driven approach, deep grassroots reach, and commitment to community transformation, they now form a crucial part of the engine propelling this initiative forward.

“Our collective goal is clear: to equip Nigerians with practical, scalable, and future-ready skills that can transform raw talent into thriving businesses and sustainable livelihoods,” he added.

The special assistant noted that the training would focus on areas such as talent and skill monetisation, the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), start-up development and innovation hubs.

“Others include agricultural value chains and agri-business, entrepreneurship education, and business development.

“It also includes technology and artificial intelligence applications, digital and soft skills for the future of work, and strategic capacity building for sustainable impact”.

Rabiu emphasised that these thematic areas were carefully selected to address the real needs of Nigerians and the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.

He also revealed that the Office had begun highlighting inspiring individuals who exemplify the initiative’s potential.

“Among them is John Edom, an innovative upcycler who transforms waste into sculptures, bags, and artworks, giving discarded items a second life while generating income and impact.

“Another is Chisom Afiukwa, a creative fibre artist who turns wool into handmade rugs and wearable art, promoting cultural heritage and entrepreneurship through craft.

“These individuals represent the faces of Nigeria’s emerging economy; young, creative, and determined to succeed,” Rabiu said.

He stressed that the partnership with Stability and Sustenance would strengthen and accelerate the government’s efforts and enhance delivery.

“This initiative is not just about building capacity, it’s about restoring hope, dignity, and opportunity for Nigerians,” he said.

Rabiu added that the Office would continue working closely with ministries, development agencies, the private sector, and civil society groups to ensure the programme reaches every part of the country.

“We call on all partners, stakeholders, and citizens to join us in this vital mission to build a stronger, more resilient Nigeria,” he concluded.

Also speaking, Mr Melody Okwuazu, Founder of Stability and Sustenance, expressed appreciation for the partnership, noting that his platform is dedicated to human development and capacity building.

He said the organisation’s role is to help the Federal Government reach its target audience across all regions of Nigeria.

“Stability and Sustenance is an EdTech platform focused on mentorship and development. Recently, we visited three states, engaging over 20,000 students within the target demographic for this project.

“We already have a database of over 400,000 SMEs across various sectors. The challenge is not the numbers, but identifying and reaching those who will truly benefit from this initiative.

“Our role is to ensure that the project reaches its intended audience, as directed by the Federal Government, and that the initiative continues into the future.

“We are committed to making President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda a reality together, we will build a better Nigeria,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Economy/Business

SMEDAN empowers women, PLWD

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By Lucy Ogalue

The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has organised a landmark financial empowerment programme for selected cooperatives in 21 states across the country.

Mr Charles Odii, SMEDAN’s Director-General, said this in a statement by Mr Moshood Lawal, Head, Corporate Affairs of SMEDAN, on Wednesday in Abuja.

Odii said that the initiative aimed to boost the production output of these cooperatives, which were predominantly owned by women and people living with disabilities (PLWD).

According to him, the programme, which includes comprehensive training and financial support, is designed to address the unique challenges faced by these groups in accessing finance and building sustainable businesses.

” By empowering these cooperatives, SMEDAN is committed to fostering economic growth, promoting inclusivity, and reducing poverty,” he said.

Odii said that selected cooperatives through the initiative would receive financial support to enhance their production capacity and business sustainability.

He said that they would benefit from training and capacity building as participants would be given comprehensive training on business management, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship skills.

He said that the programme prioritised women-owned and disability-led cooperatives, promoting diversity and equal opportunities.

“The agency remains committed to supporting the growth and development of small and medium enterprises in Nigeria, with a focus on inclusivity and sustainability.

”There is a preponderance of Cooperatives led by women and the ones exclusively owned by people living with disabilities.

“This programme is holding in Enugu, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Kwara, Gombe, Osun, Ondo, Plateau, Kaduna, Bauchi, Kebbi, Katsina, Akwa Ibom, Sokoto, Taraba, Nassarawa, Ebonyi, Ekiti, Abia,Yobe and Cross Rivers states,” he said.

He said that the programme was scheduled to hold from April 15 to April 17 across the locations above.

He said that at the end of the engagement, each cooperative would be linked to indigenous Business Development Service Providers in the State.

He said that the essence was to lead them through the process of embracing contemporary managerial practices in their respective cooperatives. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Sports

NSF: Ogun Govt. unveils mascot, logo, theme song 

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By Abiodun Lawal

The Ogun Government has unveiled the mascot, logo and theme song for the 2024 National Sports Festival, also known as Gateway Games 2024.

At the unveiling ceremony in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening, Gov. Dapo Abiodun said that state was ready to deliver a befitting National Sports Festival holding from May  16 to May 30.

Abiodun , represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said that the festival would be a reference point in the history of the games.

”We are ready to raise the bar significantly, close to two decades that Ogun last hosted the multi sports event.

”The mascot reflects the energy and cultural heritage of the good people of Ogun.” he said.

The governor lauded the Local Organising Committee for working round the clock in order to ensure that success was achieved.

He said the state government had made significant investments in the sporting facilities, which he believed would stand the test of time even beyond the games.

Abiodun assured team Ogun athletes that the state was solidly behind them, while encouraging citizens to actively participate and also welcome guests with kindness before, during and after the games.

He described sports as a unifying tool, adding that it remained a stepping stone for athletes aiming for global recognition and glory.

Abiodun called for support from stakeholders, expressing the need for all hands to be on deck in order to achieve the desired goals.

” The 2024 edition will raise the bar through innovative ideas and world-class preparations that will redefine the entire festival experience.

” The theme song, composed by Dr Bayo Adepetun, and the mascot, designed by a creative team from the state’s Ministry of Culture.

” The symbolic elements reflect the energy, cultural heritage, and aspirations of the good people of Ogun,” he said.

NAN reports that the sports festival, the 26th edition, is a biennial multi-sports event, brings together thousands of athletes from Nigeria’s 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory to celebrate sportsmanship, national unity and sporting excellence.

The festival, a celebration of Nigeria’s rich sports and cultural heritage, is billed to feature athletes competing in 33 sporting events. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Health

Akwa Ibom wins fastest-growing health agency award

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By Aderogba George

The Akwa Ibom State Health Insurance Agency (AKSHIA) has been named the ‘Fastest Growing Agency in Health Care Coverage in 2025’ by the Institute of Health Insurance and Managed Care.

The award was presented at a ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday.

The Chairman of the Institute, Dr Hope Uweja, commended the establishment of State Health Insurance Schemes across the country, describing them as a key driver in Nigeria’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

He said his eight years of experience in the sector had deepened his appreciation of the impact these schemes are making.

Uweja lauded the efforts of states like Akwa Ibom for their commitment to expanding health insurance coverage.

“If there is one aspect of our health insurance ecosystem that I particularly appreciate, it is the establishment of the State Health Insurance Schemes.

“These schemes are playing a significant role in paving the way towards achieving UHC in Nigeria,” he said.

He congratulated the awardees and welcomed participants from across the country to the event, which recognised outstanding contributions to the growth of the sector.

Receiving the award on behalf of AKSHIA, the Executive Secretary, Dr Arthur Igbemi, said the scheme, launched on September 20, 2024, was established to provide affordable and accessible healthcare to all residents of Akwa Ibom State.

AKSHIA Executive Secretary, Dr Arthur Igbemi

He said the ARISECare programme had already enrolled over 47,000 residents and was now expanding to cover more than 52,000 civil servants and their dependents, with a target of reaching up to 200,000 people.

“Through this programme, we are reducing out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare and promoting economic productivity,” he said.

Igbemi attributed the agency’s success to the strong support of Gov. Umo Eno, whom he praised for prioritising health in his development agenda.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the Governor’s vision. He is committed to keeping rural communities healthy, enabling them to remain close to home, farm, and generate income,” he said.

He also highlighted ongoing projects in the state, including the construction of a Medical City, emergency services unit, and a new model Primary Healthcare Centre, some of which were recently commissioned by the Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.

Dr Edikan Ekwere, Chairman of the AKSHIA Governing Board, also expressed his joy at the recognition.

“I am so elated and in high spirits, and it’s no small feat for us to receive this award just six months after launching our programme.

“For me, it is a great joy, and I thank God for making this day possible.”

Dr Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, presenting the award on behalf of the institute to AKSHIA team.

He also thanked Gov. Umo Eno for his unwavering support, political will, and investment in the health sector, particularly through his ARISE agenda.

“The Governor has been instrumental in setting up the health insurance board and giving us a clear mandate. Since then, we’ve been working tirelessly towards achieving this milestone,” he said.

Dr Ekwere dedicated the award to God, the Governor, the AKSHIA board members, and the agency’s staff for their dedication and hard work.

Mr Aniekan Akpan, Permanent Secretary of the Akwa Ibom Liaison Office, also thanked the governor for his proactive leadership in enabling the state’s participation in the health insurance programme.

“We want to thank the Governor for being so proactive in activating all that was needed for the state to join the health insurance team,” he said.

While acknowledging that there was a slow start, Akpan emphasised that the state had now caught up due to the Governor’s consistent drive and leadership.

“Since we started, we’ve improved health coverage for low-income earners, which is crucial for the health insurance scheme to take off in the state.

“The setting up of the board to monitor the agency’s activities has been pivotal, and we are already reaping the benefits of this pragmatic leadership, as evidenced by this award,” he concluded.

NAN reports that goodwill messages were delivered by Dr Salma Anas, Special Adviser to the President on Health, Dr Yusuf Sununu, Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, along with various state representatives. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Politics

Akpabio warns MDAs on non-compliance with NASS resolutions

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By Kingsley Okoye

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has warned Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government, against non-compliance with Senate resolutions.

He said that compliance with legislative resolutions were not optional but binding on MDAs and other public institutions.

Akpabio stated this on Tuesday in Abuja at the 2nd National Workshop organised by the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop had as it’s theme “Consolidating Strategies for Strengthening Legislative Compliance by MDAs.”

Akpabio, who was represented by Sen. Osita Ngwu, the Minority Whip of the Senate, said compliance was a constitutional obligation owed by all arms and levels of government to the people of Nigeria.

” let me state emphatically, compliance with legislative resolutions is not optional. It is absolutely fundamental.

“Our laws, policies, and oversight functions are meant to guide the execution of government programmes in a manner that ensures transparency, equity, and effectiveness.

“When departments and agencies fail to comply with legislative directives, they undermine not just the authority of the legislature but the collective will of the Nigerian people, whom we all represent,” he said.

The president of the Senate stressed the need for public institutions to work closely with the National Assembly to develop an egalitarian society.

“When public institutions ignore legislative resolutions, when compliance becomes selective, and when oversight is treated with disdain, the result is a breakdown in trust.

“As the President of the Senate, I give you full assurance that the National Assembly remains unwavering in its resolve to ensure that its resolutions are not only respected but also implemented.

“The days of impunity must give way to the reign of institutional discipline. However, enforcement must be accompanied by engagement,” he said.

Sen. Ede Dafinone, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Legislative Compliance, in his remarks decried the non-compliance of some MDAS to National Assembly resolutions.

“In recent times, we have witnessed several instances where MDAs and public institutions have either delayed or outrightly disregarded legislative resolutions passed by the Senate.

“These actions not only undermine the authority of the legislature but also weaken the very foundation of our democratic institutions,” he said.

He said the workshop was aimed at providing a platform for stakeholders to critically examine the root causes of non-compliance.

According to him, they include legal ambiguity, institutional rivalry, capacity gaps, and bureaucratic challenges.

He noted that the goal was to develop practical and enforceable solutions.

Dafinone urged MDAs to collectively work towards bridging the gap between legislation and execution for good governance, institutional effectiveness, and the benefit of the Nigerian people.

Mr Francis Usani, Director of Fraud Risk Assessment, Prevention and Control, who represented the Chairman of the EFCC, Mr Ola Olukoyede, commended the initiators of the workshop.

“This workshop couldn’t have come at a better time—when we are witnessing increased instances of laws, policies, rules, and regulations being observed more in the breach than in compliance,” he said

He emphasised that the legislature, by constitutional provision, is saddled with the responsibility of making laws for good governance and democracy.

He added that democracy can only be sustained where laws are made and obeyed.

“Compliance with resolutions made by the legislature is therefore critical to the sustenance of institutions. It is widely said that where there are no laws, there will be anarchy.

“And where laws are made but not complied with or implemented, there will also be anarchy,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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