Ms Hadiza Bala-Usman, the Chairman of the Committee (4th Left), Prof. Ayo Omotayo, DG of NIPSS (3rd Left) and other members of Committee after the meeting in Abuja 

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Presidency and the National Institute of Policies is to partner with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru, Plateau to review and harmonies inter-sectoral policies to enhance effective service delivery.

The partnership is in collaboration with the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and others.

Ms Hadiza Bala-Usman, the Special Adviser on Policy and Coordination to President Bola Tinubu stated this at the meeting of the Committee for the Review and Harmonisation of Sectoral Policies in Abuja.

Bala-Usman, who is also the Chairman of the committee, said that the team comprised of representatives from NIPPS, Office of the Vice President, SGF and others.

She noted that in view of the absence of inter-relationship across sectoral policies, the Federal Government has deemed it fit to constitute the team.

“This team or committee is expected to look at how sectoral policies would be reviewed and coordinated with enhance collaboration across the sectors.

“We have noted with concern some outdated policies are still within our sector, and the need for us to engage with respective Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) and relevant stakeholders.

“The aim of the engagement is to come up with current policy deployment that speaks to the reality of what is needed to achieve our eight presidential priorities.

“So we are going to lean on subject matter experts across the sectors; we are going to work with respective ministries and heads of agencies.

“This is to see what needs to be done to enhance our policies deployment across sectors and ministries of federal government to enhance effective service delivery, ” Bala-Usman said.

She further explained that the committee was working on a work plan, adding that it is an assignment that would take within 12 to 18 weeks to wrap up on priority on sectoral policies being updated.

She said that the committee had already identified few MDAs that have outdated policies and was working with them to upgrade and improve on them.

According to her, the work the committee is doing will not stop or negatively affect the activities of any sectoral ministries, department or agencies.

Also speaking, the Director-General, NIPSS, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, said the composition of the committee indicated that no organisation want to work in silos any more.

“One thing I want to assure everyone is that the NIPPS and presidency together with other collaborative agencies will deliver to the nation workable plan, development and implementation framework.

“This will be done in such a way that policies in Nigeria will no longer contradict themselves. We will ensure the resolution of cross-sectoral issues that have contradictions in our policies,” Omotayo said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that those in attendance are Bashir Maiduguri, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Legal, Research and Compliance in the office of the Vice President and many others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Deborah Coker/Sadiya Hamza

By Abigael Joshua

TEXEM UK, the United Kingdom based leadership development organisation, recently concluded its customised executive development programme titled “Strategic Leadership Unleashed: Thriving in an Uncertain GLOCAL World”.

The programme held from May 27 to May 30 at the Hilton Deansgate, Manchester.

The event was an outstanding success, bringing together senior leaders and executives from various sectors to hone their strategic leadership skills in today’s complex and rapidly changing global-local (glocal) environment.

The programme which also brought together Nigerian participants, began with a compelling session on “Leveraging Cultural Diversity for Success,” facilitated by Dr Alim Abubakre, British Nigerian founder of TEXEM.

Abubakre highlighted the importance of cultural diversity as a strategic asset, demonstrating how cultural intelligence can drive innovation and provide a competitive edge.

Participants engaged in interactive discussions and activities, setting a vibrant tone for the days ahead.

The first day concluded with a picturesque boat ride along the River Thames, offering a unique opportunity for networking in a relaxed setting.

This serene experience allowed participants to forge connections and reflect on the day’s insights amidst Manchester’s scenic beauty.

Day Two commenced with an insightful session by Prof. Rodria Laline, Visiting Professor at Harvard, INSEAD, and IESE.

Focusing on “Global Trade Dynamics and Strategic Leadership,” Professor Laline guided attendees through strategies for navigating international trade regulations and customs processes.

The session was followed by an enriching tour of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, where discussions revolved around, Leading businesses through post-Brexit regulatory changes, and
Developing strategies for successful international trade operations.

Building and managing networks with overseas partners was also among important topics discussed.

The programme’s content was comprehensive, covering critical topics such as market expansion, innovation in international business, and economic integration.

Participants explored, Effective communication strategies in multicultural environments, Techniques for managing market research to inform expansion, and Innovative solutions for complex trade processes.

Another area of focus was, Supporting local businesses in the global economy and fostering sustainable trade practices.

Utilizing a blend of interactive tools such as games, group discussions, assessments, peer-to-peer learning, self-reflection, observation practice, and visits to tourist destinations and companies, the programme provided an immersive learning experience.

Participants benefited from the expertise of renowned thought leaders.

These are, Prof. Rodria Laline, Chair of Intrabond Capital, Prof. Paul Griffith, the world’s first Professor of Management to lead a team to launch a rocket into space, and Prof. John Peters, former Prisoner of War and Chair of the Association of MBAs.

Key sessions and highlights included that of Day Three when Peters led discussions on “Leading Resilience: Thriving Amid Uncertainty,” focusing on building personal and organizational resilience and developing impactful GLOCAL leadership strategies.

On Day Four which was the grand finale, Griffith led discussion which covered “The Role of Innovation in Navigating Change,” emphasizing pragmatic leadership approaches and developing actionable leadership plans in uncertain times.

Participants lauded the programme’s impact and structure.

One Nigerian executive Ibrahim Ahmed, Chief Operating Officer, Tawada Nigeria Ltd commended the programme.

“I’ve been to so many leadership courses, but honestly, I found this one to be excellent and one of the best, the instructors, the content of the course is excellent.

“And I have learned a lot… this course has really changed the way I view things a lot… I will go review and also try to apply all the things I’ve learned here,” Ahmed said.

Also, Femi Asenuga, Managing Director, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc. another participant in the programme, was full of praises.

“I got a lot of validation of knowledge and also, some more insights into how to navigate the leadership journey.

“And for me, I’m going away with some profound life changing practice, tips that will enable me to, you know, continue to pilot the affairs of my business…we got some exposition as to how to be creative.

“The program has been an exceptional one, very practical program. We had a very good mix of, you know, theory with practical … illustrations and examples,” Asenuga said.

Another attendee praised the networking opportunities, saying, “The diverse group of leaders and unique settings, like the boat ride, facilitated deep connections and valuable exchanges of ideas.”

Abubakre, TEXEM founder asserted that
the programme successfully met its objectives which is equipping leaders with strategies to navigate macroeconomic turbulence and enhancing organisational agility.

He said other objectives are, fostering resilience, cultivating impactful leadership skills, encouraging innovation, and developing pragmatic leadership strategies for sustainable growth and success.

According to Abubakre, “Strategic leadership is crucial for nation-building, especially in uncertain times. This TEXEM programme empowers Nigerian executives to navigate challenges, drive innovation, and foster sustainable growth”.

He said that by developing visionary leaders, “we can build resilient organisations that contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic and social progress”.

To many observers, TEXEM UK’s “Strategic Leadership Unleashed: Thriving in an Uncertain GLOCAL World” has set a new standard for executive development programmes.

It has empowered leaders to thrive amidst global uncertainties and local challenges, fostering a new generation of agile, innovative, and impactful leaders ready to guide their organisations towards sustainable success. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Razak Owolabi

Master Oma-Benedi Excel, Over Winner of I Beg to Differ Debate Tournament Organised by Nigeria Info

By Franca Ofili

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr Ayodele Olawande, says the ministry is set with a platform where young people can address issues that affect them and excel.

Olawande told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja that the young peoples’ platform would include all youth leaders of ethnic groups.

He said that the platform would be used to ascertain what young people have in their respective areas.

He added that “if we can identify products in your areas that can be used to make or create goods for production, it will be welcomed.

“We can meet with all the Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to channel our complaints, for example, the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) gives education scholarship to young people, the youths need to know about it.”

According to him, efforts will be intensified toward improving the National Directorate of
Employment (NDE) training centres to be visible and viable for young people.

On the issue of lack of start-up grant after training, he urged the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) to play its part toward ensuring grants to small businesses and entrepreneurs.

He said “we will let SMEDAN know that some of the youths will need money to start their businesses, while some will need seedlings and fertiliser.”

Olawande explained that in Niger, great farming activities are taking place, noting that the ministry would partner the state government to ensure that young people are engaged.

“Niger produces what they eat and can also produce for people and the governor is doing fantastically well. I will visit my state and do a survey on products that young people can produce and even export.

“Everything cannot be from Federal Government, if we also put the governors on their toes and work together, we will achieve a lot.”

On the issue of “japa”, where people leave the country for greener pasture, he advised that people should go and learn some skills and come back to the country to implement.

“My advise is that when people leave the country, they should acquire knowledge and come back and develop the country.

“So, if you have the opportunity to travel, why can’t you travel and come back and invest in your country?.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Ojinaka/Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

By Lucy Osuizigbo-Okechukwu

The Electronics Development Institute (ELDI) says it is ready to partner with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in promoting made in Nigeria goods.

Dr Oluwaseyi Ogungbenro, the Overseeing Officer of the institute in Awka, said this during a courtesy visit by the NAN, Anambra Correspondent, Mrs Joy Mbachi.

ELDI is an institute under the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), focusing on electronics, software and hardware researches as well as production of prototypes for small and medium enterprises.

He said: “I’m appealing to Anambra residents and Nigerians to patronise made in Nigeria products because that is the way to go, to come out of the current economic situation.

“It is not just a patriotic gesture, it is also a way to develop and grow local industries and Nigeria’s economy.

“I made bold to say that ELDI has made lots of researches and produced prototypes and products that have capacity to solve some problems in our various households and offices.

“We produce energy saving bulbs, stabilisers, solar inverter, solar generating sets, automated mower, rechargeable lamps, automatic poultry cage system, electronic medical testing device, among others.

“These products are very affordable, durable and of high quality. Let us patronise our own locally made products and we will see our economy flourish.”

Ogungbenro called on the Anambra State Government to partner with the research institute, saying that there were lots of services the institute could offer to the government at cheaper cost.

Earlier, Mbachi said the visit was to seek partnership and to ensure effective coverage of the innovations at the institute.

According to Mbachi, publicising the inventions of ELDI in the media will create awareness and attract the attention of Nigerians to their products and services.

Highlight of the visit was a tour of the institute’s electronics workshops. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

The Transparency and Accountability Group(TAG), a civil society coalition against corruption, has called on anti-corruption agencies to probe the Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) over alleged non-remittance of N2.1 billion workers’ tax.

The group made the call at a news conference by the Executive Director, Centre for Responsive Governance, Mr Ayodeji Ologun, on Friday in Abuja.

Ologun also called on both the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) to probe NSITF’s procurement processes.

He called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the alleged series of crisis rocking the agency, which often result to frequent clash between the union and management.

He alleged that the sum of N2.1 billion was deducted from the NSITF staff’s salaries in 2022 as taxes, but instead of remitting it to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the agency invested it.

He said that up till this moment the said amount was yet to be remitted to the FIRS, thereby delayed issuance of tax clearance certificate to the staff of the agency.

“Members of staff of this agency living Lagos, particularly and other zones face different difficulties when applying tax clearance to enroll their wards in school.

“Our findings revealed that rather than remitting this huge amount of money, the management of NSITF invested this money with Norrenberger, a company that wasn’t among the counterparties approved by the board of the agency,’’ he said.

Ologun said though the present Managing Director of NISTF, Mrs Maureen Allagoa, was the Executive Director of Administration when the money was invested; the deducted t”xes were yet to be remitted even under her watch.

He also called on the anti-graft agencies to investigate the role of the former Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, in the allegation.

Ologun also called on the ICPC to conduct a thorough investigation into appointment of a consultant by the NSITF to conduct forensic investigation without due process.

He said that the fund managing director in December 2022 secretly appointed Messers Deem Forensic Integrated Services Limited to inspect the books of all contributors to the NSITF.

He said that the decision which was communicated to all NSITF regional, branch offices and all stakeholders on Jan. 27, 2023, cited sections 31, 53 and of the employees compensation Act 2010.

He added that in an attempt to cover its track the management on May 8, constituted a Parastatal Tenders Board (PTB) to consider and award the procurement of consultants;

“To conduct forensic recovery into remittances of companies/organizations in the Private Sector Qualified under the Act to remit one per cent of gross payroll to the NSITF from 2010 till date.

“We found out that this act is tantamount to the breach of procurement process,’’ he said.

Ologun said that NSITF Management was attempting to award the same contract in 2024 to Deem Forensic Global Services and M/S Nwaodu Udochi Anthony & Co. with ambiguous terms of payment.

He urged the ICPC to mandated NSITF to produce evidence of the purported board approval and how Deem Francis was recruited to embark on the sensitive consultancy service.

He also called on”the NSITF management to show to the public financial implications of the project, provision for the expenditure in 2022 appropriation and how much Deem Forentic has been paid so far.

Ologun also accused the agency of duplication of already existing contracts, arbitrary and outrageous spending of public funds on frivolities.

“We also observed that in the proposed award of internet connectivity of 19 DRC, the management is to spend the sum of N133.9m, which is to be awarded to M/S NEWCOM GLOBAL SERVICES LTD.

“This is obviously outrageous and not in tandem what is expected of an agency saddled with the responsibility of managing people’s fund,’’ he said..

Meanwhile the management NSITF has dismissed the allegations by the group, describing it as another “ sound and furry” by extortionists and detractors.

The agency in a statement by its General Manager, Corporate Affairs, Nwachukwu Godson, vowed to move ahead with its reform.

Godson recalled that the NSITF had on May 14, challenged a cohort of TAG to prove similar allegations or take its trade elsewhere.

He said that agency was  not cowed by the unrewarding whining from a poorly articled traders of hurt and malice since its books were opened and there was nothing really to hide .

He said that the deliberate distortion of the issues surrounding the N47 million gratuity had adequately been addressed by the immediate past Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Simon Lalong through a committee set up in October 2023, which established no guilt against the NISTF managing director.

He said that all the allegations were lies told so many times which had failed before consistent knocking of available facts.

Godson  said that the allegations by TAG were a motley rehash of issues which had been properly addressed before now and some of which the ICPC and EFCC were investigating and so far, no wrong doing established on the part of the agency’s management. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)

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Edited by Isaac Aregbesola

By Aderogba George

Vento International Trading Limited, an international furniture organisation, has partnered with an NGO, Advocacy for Positive Behavioural Patterns Initiative (APBPI), to promote positive behaviour and moral values among Nigerian children.

The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Coordinator for Vento, Mrs Muberra Yigit, stated this during a courtesy visit to her office by APBPI officials, on Friday in Abuja.

Yigit said that her organisation was passionate about education of young children, hence the need for partnering with APBPI to promote positive behaviour in the society, particularly among children.

According to her, promoting positive behaviour among children will assist in moulding their lives, thus making them to become responsible citizens.

She said that her company would continue to support the APBPI school programme, focusing on truancy and substance abuse.

The Director of Campaign Team for APBPI, Mr Bamidele Mann, said that the partnership would further boost the NGO’s activities and make it to get the desired positive behaviour from Nigerian children.

He noted that Vento’s past support had enabled APBPI to reach more children, aligning them with the right attitudes and behaviours essential for building better character.

“We are thrilled to partner with Vento international trading limited, sharing a common goal of shaping Nigeria’s future by investing in its children,” Mann said.

The Director, Advisory Model for APBPI, Mr Sam Obashun, thanked the firm for what it had been doing in the past, especially in the area of building a new Nigeria through children’s behaviour.

Obashun expressed the firm’s commitment to carrying out its corporate social responsibility that would make a significant difference in the lives of the children.

“Together, we are making positive impacts, fostering a culture of responsibility, respect and empathy among our young citizens.

“Vento international trading limited’s commitment to CSR has made a significant difference in the lives of numerous children, promoting a brighter future for Nigeria.

“We commend its dedication to giving back to the community and we look forward to continued collaboration,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

By Monday Ijeh

Some Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), have urged the media to refrain from attempts to blackmail institutions of government and ensure accurate information before publication.

The CSOs, Coalition for Peace In Nigeria (COPIN) and the Iconoclast Media, made the call in a joint statement on Friday in Abuja.

The statement was signed by the National Coordinator of COPIN, Mr Emeka Akwuobi and the National Secretary of Iconoclast Media, Dr Mayago Mayago.

The group faulted a media report on an alleged invasion of an Ogun State High Court premises and arrest of two suspects by personnel of the Department of State Services (DSS).

According to the group, apart from the claim of invasion, the media platform also called on President Bola Tinubu to among others, “curb DSS excesses”.

It said the DSS had, however, debunked the claim, explaining that the suspects were apprehended outside the precinct of the court.

The CSOs said the establishment Act of the DSS had wide powers, including the detection and prevention of threats to national security, public safety and assets of government.

The statement said investigation by the groups showed that the intelligence agency acted based on a report it received on alleged destruction of property and arson against the suspects.

According to the group, the DSS, in our estimation, has a track record of observing the rule of law and following the due process of law in the execution of its mandate.

“That informs why it ensures that suspects in its custody are held based on remand orders, pending when they are arraigned in court or granted administrative bail.

“We, therefore, call on President Bola Tinubu to disregard the call by the media platform to interfere with the statutory duties of the DSS.

“We also, call on other CSOs, individuals, groups and stakeholders in the project Nigeria, to give valuable support to the government and her institutions to facilitate the delivery of dividend of democracy,” the group said.

The group also said the media platform, in its “scathing” editorial, failed to observe the time-honored journalism tradition of balancing reports.

“While acknowledging that the media platform has a right to its opinion, the DSS has a history of respect for harmonious relationship with the judiciary,” the group said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru

By Lydia Ngwakwe/Aderonke Ojediran

The Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Mr Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, has called on private companies to help in building more affordable housing units in the state to bridge the deficit gap.

Akinderu-Fatai made the call at the official inauguration and handover of the 270 home units, Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Estate (Cluster 1), on Thursday, in Lagos.

He said the occasion was a step toward alleviating the housing deficit in Lagos.

Akinderu-Fatai added the housing project would bring succour to the people of the Igando-Ikotun in Alimosho Local Government Area.

He emphasised that there were more people who needed affordable housing in Lagos than the government could currently provide on its own.

He said, “We are also using this medium to call for more private participation in strengthening our resolve to reduce the challenge of housing deficit in the state.

“Though we have made significant financial investment through budgetary allocations towards completion of all existing housing schemes, we still need private sector’s support and contributions in order to speedily achieve the Lagos of our dreams.”

The commissioner said the project, with long and challenging journey, started in 2001 and had since faced multiple delays due to funding issues and changes in leadership.

Akinderu-Fatai highlighted Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to completing the project and his vision for a 21st-century Lagos.

The commissioner expressed optimism that Clusters 2 and 3 of the projects would be completed, adding 576 more homes.

He said, “As we hand over the keys to the new homeowners, we reaffirm our commitment to completing Clusters 2 and 3.
“We will continue to work assiduously to overcome any challenges, ensuring that every promised units are delivered.

“This project is a clear indication that when we combine vision with dedication, the results are transformative.

“May I, also add that Mr Governor, in his magnanimity has graciously approved that all existing subscribers with full payment for either a unit of two bedroom or three bedroom flat be given allocation from this very cluster at no additional fees to the selling price.

“This is to appreciate their trust and commitment over-time in our dear state.”

He, however, said that other subscribers with more than 50 per cent commitment on the initial selling price would be considered with an option to balance up at the current selling price.

He added, “Please be informed that when the clusters two and three of the scheme is delivered in due course, there will be an additional 576 homes to the housing stock in the area, thus bringing us to the original vision of the project.”

Akinderu-Fatai urged the new homeowners to go beyond simply receiving their apartments, encouraging them to feel a sense of responsibility for the entire estate.

Also speaking, Sanwo-Olu, at the inauguration of the 270 home units, expressed delight for bringing these homes to reality.

According to him, housing is the fundamental human rights and the cornerstone of social economic stability.

He expressed the resolve to make a significant investment to affordable housing to bridge the housing gap between the demand and the supply, pledging to partner with investors.

The governor urged the home owners to take proper care of the building, advising them not to do things that would endanger the lives of others.

He thanked the ministry and contractors, promising to come soonest for the inauguration of the clusters two and three.

The journey of Egan-Igando Mixed Housing Scheme began in 2001, with the ambitious goal of delivering 846 housing units to sub-urban dwellers in the state.

However, due to funding issues, the project was abandoned and transferred to the Lagos Building Investment Corporation in 2006.

In spite of the significant interest and financial commitments from over 924 subscribers, the project stalled again and was taken over by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure in 2013.

With very minimal progress recorded, the project was returned back to the Ministry of Housing in 2016 by former Gov. Akinwunmi Ambode.(NAN

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma