By Emmanuel Afonne

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) says security is critical to the growth and survival of the country.

The President of NIPR, Malam Mukhtar Sirajo, said this at the official presentation of the report of the Citizens Summit held in August 2022 tagged: “Rebooting Nigeria 2.0”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Citizens Summit was borne out of an objective assessment of the state of the nation, analysis of findings from credible sources on certain challenges confronting the country.

It was also borne out of a clear conviction that Nigerians at home and abroad were yearning for a platform that would offer them the opportunity to peacefully ventilate their concerns and contribute to the dialogue on nation building.

Sirajo stressed the need for effective and dynamic security by the new service chiefs to ensure economic stability.

“Our situational analysis revealed among other issues that all was not well with the state of affairs in the land.

“While there was loss of hope among the youth, the trust gap between the people and state institutions was widening fast; social tension mounted across the land, as violent aspirations and agitations threatened the foundation of our national existence.

“We are delighted now to note that President Bola Tinubu has begun the process of consensus building and reconciliation at a certain level.

“We commend the recognition and understanding of the Federal Government that this is a major area of priority and appreciate its efforts so far in that important direction.

“However, the NIPR strongly recommends that these engagements should be professionally coordinated and managed to ensure that the outcome meets the desired results.

“As perception and reputation managers, we clearly understand the dynamics that being a very sensitive matter, the process could possibly backfire, if the professional expertise required is not properly deployed,” he said.

Sirajo said the institute and its partners would make themselves available to work with the federal, state and local governments in managing the engagements to ensure credible and sustainable outcomes.

The Chairman, National Planning Committee for the Citizen’s Summit, Dr Ike Neliaku, said for the country to succeed, there must be a collaborative action to drive positive thinking.

“It was, therefore, against this background and in furtherance of its mandate that the leadership of the institute felt that we could no longer continue to fold our arms and watch the situation deteriorate further.

“Then there was the need to widen the space for inclusion and participation in national conversation and foster mutual understanding among the various segments of the country,” Neliaku said.

Prof. Emmanuel Dandaura, a member of the NIPR Council who presented the report, said that all hands must be on deck to achieve the desired result.

Dandaura said that the search for solutions to national challenges should be done more by the majority of the citizens who feel the brunt, than the minority.

“Rather than have another talk shop for the elites, the summit availed the citizens at the lowest strata of the society unique opportunities to contribute toward finding solutions to some of the intractable developmental challenges confronting Nigeria.

“The aggregate of the opinions at the lower levels was received at the state chapter levels, then the six geo-political zones in Nigeria, including the Nigeria Diaspora population constituting the seventh.

“To my mind, the engaging title ‘Rebooting Nigeria’ derives from the understanding that governance is a system which is driven by a carefully designed programme akin to the computer system driven by an operating system.

“The operating system, being software, requires regular updates to cater for new challenges. More so, the computer system is susceptible to viruses which are often consciously designed and planted by malicious parties.

“Therefore, for that system to function optimally, there must be continuous threats and vulnerability mapping.

“Where viruses are detected, they must be promptly diagnosed and removed either by deleting the malicious programme or installing updates that will override the corrupted programmes,” he said.

Dandaura noted that the benefit of deleting a virus or installing an update in a system, can only take effect when the system has successfully been rebooted.

The summit report covered thematic areas such as youth, women, security, education, economy, industry, foreign investment, national reputation, inclusive governance and Nigeria in a globalised economy among other key national issues. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

By Franca Ofii

A group, Advocacy for Positive Behavioral Patterns Initiative (AFPBPI) has urged President Bola Tinubu to urgently take immediate action to reduce fuel prices and mitigate the inflationary effects on the less priviledged.

Mr Bamidele Mann, Director of Campaign Team of the AFPBPI, made the call while addressing newsmen in Abuja.

“The initiative is deeply concerned over the recent increase in fuel price from N539 to N617 per litre and the impact of such an increase on the less privileged in our society.

“The recent increase in fuel prices has further burdened the Nigerian population, particularly the impoverished segments of society.

“This rise has not only escalated the cost of transportation, affecting daily commutes for individuals and families, but has also triggered an overall increase in the prices of essential commodities.

“As a result, the vulnerable members of our society are struggling to make ends meet, compromising their basic needs, and undermining their quality of life,” he said.

He acknowledge that managing fuel prices was s a complex issue influenced by several factors, such as global market dynamics and economic consideration.

Mann said that the initiative firmly believed that it was the responsibility of the government to implement effective measures to alleviate the financial burden on the less privileged and restore stability to the economy.

He urgently called for policies that prioritise the welfare and well-being of the people.

“We call upon the president to initiate dialogue with relevant stakeholders, including industry experts, economists, and representatives from civil society organisations.

“The dialogue will help to develop comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of escalating fuel prices while curbing inflation.

“By adopting proactive measures, such as implementing transparent pricing mechanisms, exploring alternative energy sources, and promoting investments in the petroleum sector, the president can steer the nation towards sustainable economic growth and social equity,” he said.

According to him, it will not only provide immediate relief to the less privileged but also lay the foundation for a prosperous and inclusive future for all Nigerians.

He said that the initiative would support the government’s efforts in tackling the issue.

“We are committed to collaborating with relevant ministries, agencies, and organisations to promote awareness, conduct research, and develop effective interventions aimed at improving the lives of the most vulnerable members of society,” Mann said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Sadiya Hamza

By Doris Esa

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Used Tyres Producers Responsibility Organisation of Nigeria (UTPRON) on the menace of used tyres disposal in Nigeria.

Prof. Aliyu Jauro, Director-General of NESREA while signing on behalf of the agency, said it is aimed to enhance the management of End-of-Life (EOL) tyres for the sustainable development of our environment.

He said that statistics reveal that one billion EOL tyres are generated globally, with approximately four billion currently occupying landfills and stockpiles worldwide.

“In Nigeria alone, the automobile sector generates around 10 million tyres each year without environmentally friendly management traceability data,“he said.

“These figures highlight the urgent need for proactive measures to address the management of EOL tyres in the country,“he said.

Jauro said that to ensure the protection of the environment, public health and biodiversity, the Agency has operationalized 34 national environmental regulations.

He said that they include the National Environmental (Domestic and Industrial Plastic, Rubber, and Foa sector) Regulations and where tyres are encapsulated.

The D-G said the responsibility of UTPRON includes coordinating Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement in the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), provide expert advisory services to tyre Producers/Collectors/Recyclers and consumers among others.

“All tyres Producer (manufacturers, importers, brand-owners, major distributors of tyres, etc.) are by this launch notified of the operationalisation of the EPR programme for the tyre waste stream or sub-sector,“he said.

He urged all tyre producers, collectors, recyclers and other stakeholders to collaborate with NESREA and UTPRON to ensure a cleaner and healthier environment for all Nigerians.

Jauro commended UTPRON for partnering with the agency to tackle and control the menace of EoL tyres in the country.

Mr Willy Nwoye, Chairman of UTPRON said that used tyres pose a significant threat to the environment, public health, and safety.

“Improper disposal methods, such as burning or dumping tyres in open spaces, release toxic fumes and chemicals into the air, water, and soil, leading to severe environmental degradation.

“The current problem we face stems from the alarming rate at which used tyres are being discarded in Nigeria,“he said.

According to him, stagnant water collected in these discarded tyres provides a breeding ground for disease-carrying mosquitoes, amplifying the risk of vector-borne illnesses.

“About 400,000 vehicles are imported into the country annually. Consequently, this vast number of vehicles necessitates a corresponding number of tyres.

“Nigeria generates over two million used tyres annually, and this number is anticipated to rise significantly in the coming years.

“ The importation of vehicles into the country continues unabated, leading to a surge in tyre production and, unfortunately, an escalation in tyre disposal problems,“he said.

Nwoye said that the current rate of growth of used tyres is not sustainable, and if left unaddressed, it will have far-reaching consequences.

“The increasing number of discarded tyres worsens the risk of environmental pollution and poses a direct threat to our communities.

. It is imperative that we take immediate action to mitigate these risks and safeguard the future of our nation.

He said that the partnership is aimed at tackling the issue of used tyres disposal in the country head-on.

“Through collaboration, we are bringing together the expertise, resources, and commitment necessary to implement effective solutions to curtail the growing menace of used tyres disposal,“he said.

He said that the initiative is hinged on economy and environment, where jobs will be created for existing businesses in the tyre management sector and generate employment.

“We are particularly passionate about the role this initiative will play at creating jobs and making new millionaires out of this program, which is driving our goal toward a robust circular economy.

“With our partnership and collective effort, we can pave the way for a sustainable and environmentally conscious Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Joseph Edeh

By Ruth Oketunde

A Presidential Aide, Mr John Uwajumogu, has restated the Federal Government’s commitment to providing all the necessary resources, mentorship and guidance to transform ideas into sustainable businesses.

Uwajumogu, who is the Special Adviser to the President on Industry, Trade and Investment, said this on Monday at the grand finale of the Fourth Abuja Business Plan Competition, organised by the Abuja Enterprise Agency in Abuja.

He said that the event aimed at celebrating the innovative ideas as well as great potentials that lie within Nigeria’s aspiring entrepreneurs.

Uwajumogu said that the entrepreneurial spirit remained the driving force behind job creation, economic growth, and societal progress in the country.

According to him, prospective entrepreneurs must be willing to take risks, and be determined to overcome challenges that hinder the growth and future of Nigeria and Africa in general.

“We have a collection of brilliant minds, visionaries who have dared to dream, and who possess the tenacity to turn their dreams into reality.

“Your presence here today signifies your unwavering commitment to innovation, your passion for change, and your belief in the power of entrepreneurship to shape our collective destiny.

“Each business plan presented today represents a unique opportunity, a chance to make a difference in our community.

“This will help to create jobs, empower individuals, and contribute to the economic development of Abuja.

“It is through these endeavors that we will build a more inclusive and resilient society, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed,” he said.

He also commended the Abuja Enterprise Agency for its continuous support to business owners.

In his address, the Managing Director, Abuja Enterprise Agency, Mr Shehu Abdulkadir, said that the event was organised to celebrate the spirit of innovation, perseverance, and entrepreneurship.

He lauded the achievements of the participants who had undergone series of capacity development training throughout the competition.

He said that the competition which was inaugurated by the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA in February served as a platform for entrepreneurs to display their talents in various sectors.

He said that the participants were trained on fashion, agriculture, social enterprises, innovation driven enterprises, green technology and information technology.

He called for more support to enable the agency achieve its mandates, adding that partnering with relevant stakeholders would help utilise the full potentials of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.

“By embracing synergy, we can build a future where small businesses become giants, where dreams turn into reality, and where Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit shines brightly for the world to see,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

By Philip Yatai

The Federal Ministry of Health and the World Health Organisation (WHO) have taken steps to strengthen the capacity of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to respond to health emergencies effectively.

Mr Malan Haruna, acting Secretary of Health, Health, and Human Services Secretariat (HHSS), FCTA, stated this during a meeting organised by the HHSS on Monday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was tagged, “Scooping Mission on Strengthening and Utilising Response Groups for Emergencies (SURGE) in the Federal Capital Territory”.

Haruna said that the goal of the scooping mission was to strengthen the ability of the FCTA to respond effectively to public health emergencies.

“We have seen our inadequacies over the years, especially during the recent Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in terms of our ability to respond to the pandemic.

“We have learned from that experience, and we are trying to build from it so that we will be able to respond to health emergencies in a more coordinated manner.

“The essence of the scoping mission is to look at where we have failed so we can identify the challenges and find ways to address them for a better response in the future,” he said.

He disclosed that there were 1,249 accredited health facilities made up of 814 primary health facilities and 432 secondary health facilities and three tertiary health facilities in the FCT.

He added that of the 814 primary health facilities, 580 were private facilities, while 234 were public, adding that of the 432 secondary health facilities, 409 were private while 23 were public facilities.

Haruna said that quality and quantity of healthcare workers were still inadequate with skewed distribution towards health facilities in urban areas as against facilities in peripheral areas.

“The FCTA is making efforts to bridge the gap in human resource for health through the recruitment of medical officers, but the number remains inadequate.

“The HHSS is also collaborating with Health Workforce Management to strengthen capacity of health workers for better service delivery in the FCT.

“Also, there is a system for containment of public health emergencies including the availability of a policy and plan on disease outbreak response.

“However, there is no functional infectious diseases hospital in the FCT,” he said.

The Director Public Health, HHSS, Dr Abdulrahman Sadiq, said that the world was faced with the outbreak of diseases that became pandemics or epidemics periodically.

“This is why we must always be prepared to respond to public health emergencies,” he said.

Dr Morenike Alex-Okoh, Director Public Health, Federal Ministry of Health, said that meeting would enable the partners to set up a robust health emergency response team.

Alex-Okoh, who was represented by Dr Nse Akpan, Post Health Services in the ministry, said that the meeting was also to strengthen the capacity to respond to outbreak of any disease.

“We have learned from previous experience and saw the need to strengthen our workforce and have a robust team that can respond to any public health threat at any point in time,” he said.

Also, Dr Kumshida Balami, Coordinator, African Volunteer Corps for SURGE in Nigeria, WHO Country Office, said that the scoping mission was designed to assess the status of FCT’s capacity in response to health emergencies.

Balami said that the activity, which would last up to July 22, would engage stakeholders in the health sector and assess their capacity to respond to emergencies.

She identified some of the challenges affecting emergency response as human resource and lack of agility among the response team, with many of them becoming fatigued during emergency response.

“Another problem is lack of motivation and short supplies of consumables needed to be able to attend to affected persons during emergencies.

“Together we will identify the gaps in emergency response and develop a roadmap with activities and timelines, responsible officers, and monitoring and evaluation framework to close the critical gaps within two years,” she said.

The coordinator said that WHO would provide a technical support digital learning platform to the FCTA for health emergency coordination.

She informed the meeting that WHO would also train in the FCT at least 80 emergency responders to dangerous situations requiring very quick response within 24 to 48 hours.

“WHO will also support the FCTA with vehicles for emergency response including supplies and consumables,” she added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Emmanuel Yashim