NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Japa: Lawyer advises Nigerians to beware of fake travel agents
General News

Japa: Lawyer advises Nigerians to beware of fake travel agents

304 total views today

By Toba Ajayi

An Ilorin-based lawyer, Mr Omotayo Abel, has advised Nigerians wishing to travel abroad to beware of fake and fraudulent travel agents using social media to look for victims.

Abel gave the advice in Ilorin on Friday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

He said that such travel agents had defrauded many Nigerians seeking to travel abroad for greener pastures.

“There are many of them deceiving people online. They will appear real but deceive desperate Nigerians seeking to relocate abroad for greener pastures.

“It is advisable that you go through the right channels, don’t rush to believe every advertisement on social media.

“Stop doing business with self-acclaimed agents who are fake. Their plan is to defraud you and run away.

“It is advisable to visit embassies and immigration offices to ask questions rather than fall into the hands of fake agents,” he said.

The lawyer advised members of the public to stop being desperate to travel abroad. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Editted by Abdulfatai Beki/Ijeoma Popoola

Tinubu lauds NASS for ratifying Rivers state of emergency
General News

Tinubu lauds NASS for ratifying Rivers state of emergency

349 total views today

By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday lauded the National Assembly for ratifying the State of Emergency proclamation in Rivers State.

In a statement by his spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President described the decision as a crucial step in restoring stability.

He highlighted that the prolonged political crisis had paralysed governance and jeopardised national economic security for more than 15 months.

He commended the leadership of the National Assembly, including Sen. Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, and Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives.

He also praised other principal officers and members for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers people over partisan interests.

The President also acknowledged the lawmakers’ careful review of classified security briefings, emphasising the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.

“The crisis in Rivers was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy.

“This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability,” Tinubu stated.

He affirmed that the six-month emergency would empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.

The President further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.

“This decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the actions of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

Tinubu also thanked Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

NYSC N77,000 allowance to commence in March
General News

NYSC N77,000 allowance to commence in March

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By Folasade Akpan

The Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, has assured that the payment of the newly increased monthly allowance of N77,000 to corps members will begin in March.

Nafiu made the announcement while interacting with corps members at the NYSC Zonal Offices in Wuse and Garki, Federal Capital Territory.

He assured the corps members that both the scheme and the Federal Government were committed to their welfare and would continue prioritising their well-being.

“With effect from March, you are going to receive N77,000 as your monthly allowance.

“NYSC is good at record-keeping, and I can assure you that your money will be paid. The nation and the scheme appreciate you,” Nafiu said.

He thanked the corps members for their selfless service and encouraged them to remain calm, dedicated, focused, and disciplined.

Nafiu also emphasised the significance of the NYSC scheme, stating that it was an initiative that built bridges and exposed graduates to cultural values beyond their places of birth.

The Director-General further stated that the NYSC management would continue to instil virtues such as patriotism, discipline, self-restraint, good morals, leadership qualities, and teamwork in future batches.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Government approved the increase in corps members’ monthly allowance to N77,000 in September 2024, with the new allowance taking effect from July 2024.

Prior to this increase, corps members received a monthly allowance of N33,000. The raise aligns with the enactment of the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru and Benson Iziama

Firm urges FG to integrate AI-driven telemedicine into healthcare
General News

Firm urges FG to integrate AI-driven telemedicine into healthcare

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By Jessica Dogo

 

The UNICCON Group of Companies has urged the Federal Government to fully integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven telemedicine into the nation’s health system.

 

The firm on Thursday carried out a pilot of its AI-powered telemedicine software, MySmartMedic, at Galadimawa, an Abuja suburb.

 

The project is expected to help in transforming Nigeria’s healthcare system, with the company urging the Federal Government to integrate it into its hospitals management system.

 

The Chairman, UNNICON Group Prof. Chuks Ekwueme, said healthcare should be convenient, not complicated, adding that MySmartMedic would ensure access to quality medical advice in minutes to anyone, regardless of location or financial status.

 

Ekwueme said the inspiration behind MySmartMedic was to offer users and patients a robust healthcare application that would bridge the gap in accessing healthcare service in Africa.

 

He said most of the available health applications had always focused on hospital management system hence the firm was deliberate in building social impact solution for the masses on applied artificial intelligence.

 

He said this initiative would provide instant virtual consultations, smart symptom analysis, and accessible healthcare services across the country.

 

“It will also reduce cost, gap in manpower supply, increase efficiency, increase reach and reduce stress on government facilities.”

 

He said MySmartMedic will revolutionise Nigeria’s healthcare accessibility, through seamless offers, affordable, and secure way for Nigerians to speak with licensed doctors.

 

According to him, they will also be able to get e-prescriptions, and receive AI-powered health recommendations anytime, anywhere.

 

“It will be a very good initiative for government-owned hospitals to collaborate with telemedicine providers by integrating that into its hospital management system.

 

“With a doctor-to-patient ratio far below WHO recommendations, MySmartMedic’s AI system will help to analyse symptoms and recommend next steps, significantly reducing consultation times and improving diagnosis accuracy.

 

“The platform also offers instant doctor consultations via video, audio, or chat prescription refills, drug delivery for seamless medication access, specialist Access for chronic disease management, dermatology, mental health, and more.

 

“Given the shortfall in healthcare workers, health centers and funding, Telemedicine remains the easiest, fastest and affordable means of offering a certain category of health services to the rural areas.

 

“MySmartMedic aligns with Nigeria’s digital health transformation goals, aiming to support government and private healthcare initiatives in improving nationwide healthcare accessibility,” he said.

 

The Village Head of Galadimawa, Alhaji Musa Barde expressed happiness and enthusiasm about the potential of the initiative to bridge the healthcare gap in rural communities.

 

Barde said the initiative would go a long way in helping Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) to cater for more people in the community.

 

“I am very happy that you are starting with our community. I will give you my full support to ensure its success,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Uche Anunne

Tinubu orders investigation into karu tanker explosion
General News

Tinubu orders investigation into karu tanker explosion

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By Salif Atojoko

 

President Bola Tinubu has ordered an investigation into the tanker explosion that caused multiple accidents and fatalities in Karu, Abuja, on Wednesday night.

 

In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones in the tragic incident, which occurred during peak hours.

 

Tinubu also instructed that the injured be given priority treatment at various medical facilities in the capital city.

 

He directed security agencies, particularly those responsible for road safety, to pay closer attention to traffic around the entry and exit points of the city.

 

The President prayed for the souls of the departed and for God’s comfort and strength for the families affected by the tragedy.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

 

 

Tinubu right on Rivers state of emergency- TMSG
General News

Tinubu right on Rivers state of emergency- TMSG

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The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has said that President Bola Tinubu has a major responsibility to forestall further chaos and anarchy in Rivers State by proclaiming a state of emergency.

The group argued that intelligence at the President’s exclusive disposal was sufficient justification for his decision to declare a state of emergency and also suspend democratic institutions there for six months.

This, according to TMSG, is a fallout of the reluctance of the two parties in the political crisis to work together despite a presidential intervention and a recent Supreme Court ruling.

In a statement signed by its Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, TMSG argued that the President was left with no choice but to constitutionally intervene and restore security, stability and order in the state.

It said: “Our position on President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a state of emergency and suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and members of the House of Assembly is simple. The president acted proactively to defuse an already charged situation.

“This follows the hard-line positions and reluctance of both parties in the political crisis in Rivers state to heed the voice of reason and act to return the state to peaceful governance in the aftermath of the recent Supreme Court ruling.

“We note that before then, President Tinubu had in December 2023 intervened by brokering a peace deal between Governor Fubara and the state legislators.

“The deal which was tabled at a meeting in Abuja attended by key political stakeholders, was to have culminated in the governor recognising and presenting the 2024 budget to the Martin Amaewhule-led assembly as well as reinstate the legislators’ remunerations and benefits while the Assembly members were to stop impeachment proceedings.

“Both sides were also to drop all pending court matters on the crisis. But to the surprise of many Nigerians, the parties stuck to their hard-line positions and failed to implement critical aspects of the peace deal.

“We were therefore surprised to see a claim by the former Rivers state Commissioner of Information that the governor implemented the President’s deal.

“So we wonder which one of the terms was implemented because the lawmakers have not had their benefits reinstated, and neither was the 2024 budget sent to them for approval.

TMSG said that even when the Supreme Court ruled on the matter, there was still a reluctance from both parties to work in harmony until the state legislators began impeachment proceedings which could have worsened the situation.

It added that the day after the impeachment notice was served, an explosion rocked the Trans-Niger Pipeline, one of Nigeria’s biggest oil pipelines, which feeds the crude export terminal at Bonny.

It said a similar incident was also recorded a few hours later in the evening at a manifold connected to a federal pipeline deep inside the forest.

“So for us, an extraordinary measure was necessary to restore governance and prevent further breakdown of law and order in Rivers State, as the President noted in his 12-minute national broadcast.

“From all indications, the President watched and waited patiently for 15 months as both parties engaged in unnecessary filibustering and reneging until the truce brokered by the president was broken.”

TMSG further argued that there was no basis for comparing the President’s action to that of former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013 at the height of the war against insurgency in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states.

“We acknowledge that President Jonathan indeed declared a State of Emergency in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa but left the governors in place. But let Nigerians not forget that it was a war situation, which is different from what we have in Rivers State.

“President Tinubu did not declare emergency rule in Rivers strictly because of security issues. He made it clear that
his decision was necessary to restore peace, order, and governance in a state that had been embroiled in political turmoil for several months on end.

“So we believe that President Tinubu deserves credit for not only declaring a state of emergency but for also suspending the two parties for six months.

“We hope that it will give both parties enough time to ruminate and evaluate their actions since December 2023 and accept mediatory efforts they had shunned previously,” it added.(NAN)
Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Customs distributes learning materials to GSS Wuse students
Education , General News

Customs distributes learning materials to GSS Wuse students

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By Martha Agas

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has distributed learning aids, including books, school bags, and writing materials, to 1,300 students of Government Secondary School (GSS), Wuse Zone 3, Abuja.

This event marked the official inauguration of the NCS’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) unit, Customs Cares.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NCS recently established its CSR Unit, Customs Cares, to drive programmes aligned with the eight presidential priority areas and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking at the event on Thursday, the NCS Comptroller-General (C-G), Adewale Adeniyi, emphasised that students would not only receive learning aids but also scholarships to support their academic growth.

He further stated that the Customs Cares Initiative would focus on rehabilitating critical infrastructure at the school and other institutions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones as part of the NCS’s contribution to the educational sector.

“This initiative represents the first of many interventions planned across our operational areas in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

“We will follow this model in other areas, ensuring regular consultations, as advised by the Minister of Education.

“In collaboration with the school, the NCS identified security gaps and has installed CCTV cameras and solar-powered streetlights to enhance safety on the premises.

“Renovation work on the school’s auditorium is also set to begin soon,” said Adeniyi.

Adeniyi emphasized that the selection of GSS Wuse Zone 3 was not coincidental, citing the NCS’s historical connection to the community.

He highlighted that the school adoption initiative was a long-term commitment and plans to extend it to one school in each Local Area Council within the Federal Capital Territory, tailoring interventions to each institution’s specific needs.

“Customs Cares is designed to foster community empowerment through a comprehensive approach to CSR, focusing on education, healthcare, social investments, environmental sustainability, food security, and the creative economy.”

He noted that the initiative would be implemented in phases, focusing on addressing critical social, educational, and infrastructural gaps in underserved communities.

“Strategic partnerships with local stakeholders, government agencies, and international organisations will help ensure the long-term success of the programme.

“The NCS has committed to earmarking 4 per cent of its annual wage bill, equivalent to 50 percent of each officer’s one-month salary, to fund the initiative.

“Additionally, numerous officers have pledged personal contributions to support various aspects of the project.”

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, lauded Customs for the initiative and encouraged collaboration with relevant education bodies to ensure tailored interventions.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, also commended the NCS for its impactful CSR efforts, recognising the role it plays in securing a bright future for the nation’s youth.

Edun said President Bola Tinubu’s administration was working diligently to secure a bright future for the younger generation through its economic reforms, particularly the deregulation of the oil sector and foreign exchange policy.

Mrs Josephine Chizoba Ugwu, Principal of GSS Wuse Zone 3, expressed gratitude for the intervention, noting that it would inspire students to excel academically and in character.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Women group donates laboratory to Anambra school
General News

Women group donates laboratory to Anambra school

382 total views today

 

 

By Joy Mbachi

 

The Women Wing of Enugwu-Ukwu Community Development Union (ECDU), Lagos Branch, has refurbished the laboratory of Ide Secondary School, Enugwu-Ukwu, Njikoka council of Anambra State.

 

The six million Naira project includes replacement of broken walls and bricks, plastering, re-roofing, painting and replacement of furniture and other accessories.

 

Inaugurating the project on Tuesday, the Traditional Ruler of Enugwu-Ukwu, Igwe Ralph Obumneme Ekpe, praised the women for investing in infrastructure.

 

Ekpe said that the laboratory would go a long way to promote science education.

 

Ekpe enjoined other branches of ECDU across the country and in the diaspora to emulate the Lagos branch.

 

Ekpe also appealed to well-meaning individuals in the community to bring their experiences and resources to develop the community.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that earlier, the President of ECDU, Women Wing, Dr Felicia Agubata, urged the school authority and other stakeholders to take ownership of the laboratory through maintenance, provision of security and effective utilisation.

 

The president, who is an old student of the school, expressed gratitude to the school for molding her well.

 

Agubata, a former President of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, commended all those who supported the project.

 

Agubata, a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, called on philanthropists, old students of the school and other members of the community to support development of the school.

 

She said that the building designated for physics and chemistry practical and other academic purposes was dilapidated for about six years.

 

She said that a video of the dilapidated laboratory building that circulated on social media attracted the ECDU Women Wing to intervene.

 

According to her, over 70 per cent of members of the women wing graduated from the school when it was known as Girls Secondary School, Enugwu-Ukwu.

 

“I raised the issue among the women, I got their nod and we mobilised resources through individual contributions, donations and support from our husbands, illustrious sons, friends and well-wishers,” she said.

 

The President of ECDU, Lagos Branch, Mr Sopulu Nwakaeze, praised the women wing for embarking on the project.

 

Nwakaeze called on the leadership of other branches of ECDU to support women and girls to excel in their careers.

 

He also advised them to channel resources toward building happy homes and a prosperous community.

 

He assured the school authority that efforts would be made to rebuild the school’s burnt examination hall.

 

The Principal of the school, Mrs Christiana Obidindu, described the project as a step in right direction, saying that it would improve academic performance of the school.

 

Obidindu, however, said that the school needed perimeter fencing and security personnel, appealing for support.

 

Miss LoveJoy Damian, a JS3 student of the school, and Miss Mmesomma Okeke, an SS1 student of the school, thanked the women and other supporters of the school. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

FG to collaborate with Institute of Architects on regulations  
General News

FG to collaborate with Institute of Architects on regulations  

308 total views today

 

By Salif Atojoko

The Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, has assured the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), that the Federal Government will collaborate with the institute to curtail building collapse in the country.

Gbajabiamila spoke at the State House on Wednesday when he received a delegation of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, led by Mobolaji Adeniyi, its National President.

He noted that every profession had its challenges, and that quackery remained a major challenge in the industry, declaring that it was imperative for the institute to intensify its efforts towards sanitising the building space.

“I think it is important for proper regulation in the industry; you must address the use of substandard materials leading to building collapse and other associated problems.

“Your body should be able to sue quacks because you have locus. What a quack means is that he is misrepresenting himself as being an architect or as a registered member of your profession, misrepresenting the profession.

“That should give you enough locus to sue for misrepresentation, because you are protecting your profession,” said the Chief of Staff.

He said the government was determined to expand local content utilisation, recalling that he presented a bill on local content in the building industry as a member of the House of Representatives.

The Chief of Staff added that architecture was more than a profession, affirming that it embodied culture, space and civilisation:

“Your profession is an integral part of national development. Architecture of a country speaks volumes about the character of a country.

“It is an expression of who they are and what we are and that is why you have people talk about Spanish style, Brazilian architecture as well as English, American buildings or Arabic Style. That tells you that architecture is not just a profession but a way of life,” he said.

Reacting to other requests from the body, Gbajabiamila stated that it was important to have a holistic approach to the issue of local content rather than piece – meal legislations on every aspect of the national economy.

He advised the institute to liaise with relevant committees of the National Assembly towards achieving some of their requests.

Earlier, Adeniyi said the institute, formed in 1960, came to seek government’s participation in its 65th anniversary celebrations in May.

According to the National President, “architecture has stood as a representation of society, reflecting the values, aspirations and successes of civilisations over time.”

 

She commended the Chief of Staff for his “imprint in the building and construction industry” through his donation of buildings to the University of Lagos.

She sought government’s intervention towards the establishment of a Building Regulation Commission as obtained in other sectors to deal effectively with quackery and lack of professionalism. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Stakeholders advocate FoI law in Edo, demand transparency
General News

Stakeholders advocate FoI law in Edo, demand transparency

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By Usman Aliyu

Civil society groups, legal experts, and media stakeholders have urged the Edo Government to domesticate the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to enhance transparency and accountability.

The stakeholders made the submission during a town hall meeting on FOIA application, organised by the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA) on Wednesday in Benin.

They highlighted the Act’s importance in empowering citizens to demand accountability.

In her opening address, CTA’s Executive Director, Faith Nwadishi, described corruption as a major threat to governance and development.

She emphasised the need for proactive FOIA implementation to track budgets and expose misconduct.

“We are not victims of corruption but powerful change agents. FOIA should be a tool for transparency, yet many citizens face barriers when trying to access vital information,” Nwadishi said.

She urged the Edo government to domesticate FOIA, noting that bureaucratic bottlenecks and deliberate denial of information hindered its effectiveness.

Representing the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, the Head of the FOI Unit in the Ministry of Justice, Garba Sunday, reaffirmed the Act’s role in governance.

He encouraged public institutions to proactively disclose information.

“FOIA guarantees citizens access to government records without requiring justification. Public institutions must ensure transparency by keeping records accessible,” he said.

He acknowledged that Edo had yet to enact a law regulating access to government records and urged the state to align with the federal FOIA to strengthen accountability.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, supported by the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) and funded by the European Union through International IDEA.

The forum provided stakeholders with an opportunity to discuss leveraging FOIA

Participants pledged to intensify advocacy for FOIA domestication in Edo, emphasizing that access to information is crucial for democratic governance and social justice.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

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