NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Gov. Abiodun warns transporters against moving flammable substances with passengers
Metro

Gov. Abiodun warns transporters against moving flammable substances with passengers

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By Yetunde Fatungase

Gov. Dapo Abiodun has issued a stern warning to commercial vehicle operators within the state to refrain from transporting flammable materials in their vehicles to ensure passengers’ safety.

The governor’s warning followed a tragic incident involving a commercial vehicle near the Muhammadu Buhari Estate on the Abeokuta-Sagamu Interchange Expressway.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the accident which occurred on Tuesday claimed the lives of 16 persons.

The vehicle, a white Mazda bus with registration number KJA949YJ was reportedly carrying a filled gas cylinder which exploded, leading to a fire outbreak.

The governor, in a statement in Abeokuta by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Mr Kayode Akinmade, said the accident was preventable.

He stressed the need for stringent handling and transportation protocols regarding highly flammable substances, including gas and petroleum products.

“It is the responsibility of the two major transport unions — the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) to their members and the general public,” the governor said.

He called on the two bodies to educate their members on the dangers associated with the transportation of hazardous materials.

“This is vital in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among commercial drivers,” Gov. Abiodun said.

He underscored the importance of community vigilance and adherence to safety regulations in preventing such tragedies in the future.

“This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers linked to the transportation of flammable materials.

“As we grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, it is essential for all stakeholders —drivers, unions and regulatory bodies, to work collaboratively towards ensuring that such incidents do not recur.

“The safety of passengers must remain paramount and all necessary measures should be taken to protect lives on the roads.

“Only through collective efforts and a commitment to best practices can the state hope to minimise the risks associated with the transportation of dangerous goods,” Abiodun said.

He expressed his sympathy for the families of the victims, praying for divine comfort and strength to help them cope with their irreplaceable losses. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Olawale Alabi

Tinubu unveils Lagos-Ibadan Road expansion project
Metro

Tinubu unveils Lagos-Ibadan Road expansion project

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By Lydia Chigozie-Ngwakwe

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday launched the completed and ongoing 24km section, alongside the upcoming 48km section of the Lagos-Ibadan dual carriageway.

This includes Section One and the Lagos-Sagamu route in Lagos and Ogun, Phase Two.

Tinubu highlighted the importance of road infrastructure for socio-economic development.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the country’s transport network to enhance mobility and economic growth.

The President stated: “There is no doubt that road infrastructure plays a fundamental role in the socio-economic development of any nation.”

Quoting Norman Foster, he added: “Infrastructure is much more than roads and bridges; it is the foundation that sustains economic growth, facilitates mobility, and enhances the quality of life.”

He stressed his administration’s commitment to linking rural roads to urban centres, commercial hubs, and industrial corridors to maximise the nation’s resources and mineral deposits.

Tinubu, represented by Ogun Governor, Dapo Abiodun, said: “This strategic approach aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We are committed to rebuilding, expanding and modernising our national road networks, railways and airports, all vital to economic prosperity.”

He praised the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, for his dedication. He described Umahi as “the actualiser of our vision on road infrastructure” and “a right fit for purpose.”

Umahi noted that the President, represented by the Ogun Governor, will inaugurate both the completed/ongoing 24km section and the upcoming 48km section, ensuring momentum in spite of incomplete procurement.

He confirmed that palliative work had been undertaken as temporary repairs. “What we are doing today is part of the Lagos-Ibadan project, Phase Two,” he said.

Umahi outlined key components, including the Ogun River, Marlboro underpass, Wawa underpass, Arepo underpass, Sagamu-Iperu (24km), RCC Church interchange, two flyovers, and five pedestrian bridges.

“The next phase, which the representative of the President will flag off, is 48km by two, extending from Iperu to Ijebu Ode along the Sagamu-Ore route,” Umahi added.

He confirmed that the full 96km (48km by two) would be inaugurated, alongside completed palliative works, to maintain project continuity.

Umahi explained that the second part of the 48km stretch (Iperu to Ijebu Ode) faced a procurement issue. The process was flawed and required resubmission to the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) with a 30-day turnaround.

“The second leg of Phase Two, Section Two, of Lagos-Ibadan was wrongly procured. I directed its resubmission to the BPP, and in 30 days, work will commence.

“The Governor of Ogun, representing the President, will flag off both phases, even though Phase Two is not fully procured. In 15 days, the project will be awarded.

“It is better to flag off both today from Iperu, where the first 24km stops, to Ijebu Ode,” he said.

Umahi thanked the governor for his support and emphasised the project’s national significance. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG’s economic reforms will yield positive result- VC
Metro

FG’s economic reforms will yield positive result- VC

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By Funmilayo Adeyemi

The Vice-Chancellor of the African School of Economics, Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji, has predicted that the various economic reforms introduced by the Federal Government will soon yield positive results.

 

Speaking at the school’s second edition of its Public Lecture on Thursday in Abuja, Adedimeji said the reforms would soon have a multiplier effect on the economy.

 

“One of the things that we see in the economy now is that the currency is gaining more value against the dollar. We can also see that the price of fuel has reduced.

 

“So the only hope is that there will be a reflection of that in the remaining sectors of the economy.

 

“The optics are good as they stand, and one has every reason to be confident that Nigeria’s economy will pick up as a result of the reforms the Federal Government has put in place,” he said.

 

Adedimeji explained that the lecture was organised to draw insights from other parts of the world to advance Nigeria’s economy.

 

“The primary problems that human beings face are economic in nature; what to eat, what to wear, and where to live.

 

“As a way of advancing discourse on solving our economic problems and addressing our economic challenges, we brought in an Irish economist to talk to us about ways to solve these issues,” he said.

 

Susan HayesCulleton, from Ulster University, Northern Ireland, while delivering her lecture on “Economic Growth Models: The Ireland Experience”, urged Nigeria to develop the entrepreneurial capacity of its people to foster economic growth.

 

HayesCulleton said it was time for Nigeria to learn from Ireland by improving the efficiency of businesses to make them more sustainable.

 

She added that partnerships were also essential to overcoming the challenges of a changing environment while building international relationships.

 

“The Irish people and the Irish business culture look outward and engage with their diaspora, and Nigeria has a huge capacity to do the same.

 

“They can also achieve this by enabling people to become proficient in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance website development, e-commerce, and other business ventures.

 

“So there are plenty of opportunities for Nigeria to leverage its population and, of course, collaborate with Ireland for mutual benefit,” she said.

 

She encouraged Nigeria to embrace AI in developing sustainable energy sources by upskilling its people to provide solutions to emerging challenges.

 

“A significant challenge that we face as business leaders in relation to AI is twofold.

 

“First, energy consumption, we need to develop more sustainable energy sources to power AI operations.

 

“Secondly, we must ensure that people are adequately upskilled to manage and maximise the potential of AI.

 

“AI is a new development, but we must consider how we can build our capacity to train AI while also strategically and ethically integrating it into our businesses.

 

“In addition, we need to align technological advancements with workforce productivity so that society as a whole benefits,” she added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

FCT residents laud Wike for opening Karmo District Market
Metro

FCT residents laud Wike for opening Karmo District Market

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By Joshua Olomu

Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have commended Minister of the FCT, Nyesome Wike  for opening the newly constructed Karmo District Market for business.

Some of the residents, especially those living around the Karmo district, including traders, spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sideline of the official commissioning of the market on Wednesday in Abuja.

The market was built under Public-Private Partnership by the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), Rural Homes and other partners.

According to the residents, opening the market, which took over seven years of construction, is a commendable feat by the Wike-led FCT administration, as it will boost economic activities in the area.

Mr Francis Adamu, a dealer on fabrics, expressed joy that  finally, the Karmo market was officially inaugurated.

“This means that more developmental activities will spring up here.

“I think we need to thank the FCT minister for working to ensure that the long wait is over, and other  partners, especially the Rural Homes must also be commended,” Adamu said.

A dealer on electronics and furniture, Mr Ike Ekeka,  said: “I have bought a shop here because of the uniqueness of the market  and proximity to my home.

“There is no doubt that Rural Homes and the AICL have built a world class market here in Karmo, and we are especially grateful to ‘Mr Project’, the FCT minister.”

On her part, Mrs Rahab Isa, a resident in the area, said that Karmo was a developing area, adding that the market would surely boost economic activities here.

“We will no longer have to go to other markets in Wuse and Garki and that is why we are happy that the minister is formally opening the market today,” she said.

While commissioning the market, Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, who represented Wike, said  the  project was part of the government’s efforts to promote economic growth in the territory.

“This project is a clear demonstration of our administration’s commitment to fostering economic growth, empowering businesses, and creating a conducive environment for trade and commerce in the city of Abuja.

“Markets are the heartbeat of every community, they are not just centres for buying and selling, they represent the strength of our local economy and the resilience of our people.

“This district market is designed to serve as a hub for business activities, providing traders with modern facilities and ensuring the residents have access to quality of goods and services.

“The integration of this market would undoubtedly boost local commerce, creating employment opportunities for our youth, and enhance the livelihood of our people in line with the renewed hope agenda of  President Bola Tinubu,” she said.

The minister expressed optimism that the market would contribute significantly to revenue generation for the FCT.

“It’s my conviction that the market will contribute significantly to the revenue generation for the FCT and improve the business environment in the district.

“While we celebrate this achievement, I wish to urge all traders and residents to make proper use of this facility by ensuring cleanliness, orderliness, and mutual respect remains our word,” she said.

Sa’adatu Aliyu, Managing Director of Rural Homes said the market is developed on 9.9 hectares of land, with over 2,500 units of well-organised shops for different categories of goods and services.

She said the market sections include the cold room and meat sections of the farmers’ market, with over 150 stalls and over 100 enclosed units.

“We have duplexes here for offices, including banks, clinics and fire service, and all of these make it a complete business hub.

“The shops here are very affordable because before we started this project, we went around Abuja to see how this market is going to tally with other developments, and we have done that consistently over the period.

“We discovered from our findings that our shops are priced lower than other markets, and there are flexible payment plans available,” she said.(NAN)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Foundation urges unity ahead of 2025 Global Disability Summit
Metro

Foundation urges unity ahead of 2025 Global Disability Summit

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By Ahmed Musa

The Albino Foundation Africa (TAF Africa) has called on Nigerian disability community to remain united while presenting its commitment towards fostering disability-inclusive development at 2025 Global Disability Summit in Germany.

Mr Jake Epelle, the Chief Executive Officer of the group, made the call on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

NAN reports that the summit, which is scheduled to be held between April 2 and 3 in Berlin, Germany, is organised by the International Disability Alliance and the governments of Germany and Jordan.

”We have to ensure that the disability community go there with one voice and the position of the Nigerian Community of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) as well as that of government is well articulated.

”We have to determine what will be our position so that we don’t go there and everybody is speaking across purpose, there is a need for us to have one voice that resonate in the conference.

”A voice that will speak to specific issues that would address the yearnings and aspirations of Persons with Disabilities especially the need to advance our social inclusion” Epelle said.

The TAF Africa CEO also explained that the focus of the summit would be the commitment of stakeholders especially on the areas of need to PwDs.

”Commitment is part of the summit because it is designed to get individuals, organisations, countries to send in their commitments.

”If your commitment is on inclusion, if your commitment is on women empowerment or engaging critical stakeholders, you have to detail that commitment and it has to be read on the floor of the Summit.

”Nigeria has not been part of the co-sponsors of the summit and I think we should be calling for Nigeria to be recognised as the Co-Sponsor like Kenya and Ghana,” he said.

Epelle therefore, expressed the need for Nigeria to cosponsor the next Global Summit on Disability to showcase the country’s commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.

The aim of the Summit is to draw countries commitment to fostering disability-inclusive development, galvanise global efforts to achieve disability inclusion around the world (NAN)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

Airtel Nigeria increases data prices
Metro

Airtel Nigeria increases data prices

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Increment

By Funmilola Gboteku

Airtel Nigeria, the country’s second-largest telecommunications operator (Telco) has announced a significant adjustment to its data pricing structure.

A check by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) using the *312# code and on the Airtel website showed the revised data prices.

According to the telco’s website, the revision, which affects various data bundles, is aimed at mitigating the impact of escalating operational costs on the company’s operations, amidst a challenging economic landscape.

The revised data plans, published on its website, include daily plans: N50 for 40MB (valid for 1 day), N100 for 100MB (valid for 1 day), N200 for 200MB (valid for 3 days), and N350 for 1GB (valid for 1 day).

On the other hand, weekly plans have become N350 for 350MB (valid for 7 days), N500 for 750MB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 200MB YouTube Music/Spotify (valid for 7 days), N500 for 1GB plus 1GB YouTube Night and 50MB Socials (valid for 7 days), and N500 for 2GB (valid for 2 days).

Other changes for monthly plan include 3GB for N2,000 (from 1.5GB at N1,200), 4GB for N2,500 (formerly 3GB at N1,500), and 8GB for N3,000 (formerly 4.5GB at N2,000).

Other adjustments include 10GB for N4,000 (formerly 6GB at N2,500), 13GB for N5,000 (from 10GB at N3,000), 18GB for N6,000 (formerly 15GB at N4,000), and 25GB for N8,000 (replacing 18GB at N5,000).

Airtel’s call rates rose to 25 kobo per second from about 18 kobo per second. Like MTN, Airtel has left some tariff plans untouched. For instance, the 5GB plan/week for N1,500 remains unchanged.

This development comes on the heels of a tariff hike of about 50 per cent by MTN Nigeria, which took effect almost a week ago, in a bid to cushion the impact of rising operational costs.

NAN reports that a look at the telco’s X page revealed bitter complaints by subscribers.

A Subscriber, Okikiola (@okikiola_Ayoade) said: “Return our data bundles back e no easy to dey get money, you people dey inconvenience us, data from 3000 for 20gb is now 3000 for 10gb ,Why are we suffering for what we are paying for, ogun dey kee una shey until when we no get clothes for neck again?

Also, Jessy Paul (@Firstjessy), another Subscriber, queried the telco for stopping its previous data offer, saying that the only reason he was using Airtel was because their plans were reasonable.

“Can you change it back to what it used to be or should I break my Airtel SIM and switch to another network?” Paul asked.

Another Subscriber, ShadeFX D BoiCrypt (@ShadeFx__) said: “Life is already hard for us and you decided to add more to it by being heartless, Why increase data plans and then exhaust it so fast.

“What did we do wrong by choosing to use your network? Does it sounds fair to you now? Are you happy? This is Evil,” he said.

However, Airtel on its X page apologised for the inconveniences caused by the data increase to subscribers who complained.

“We extend our sincere understanding regarding your concerns, and wish to apprise you that comprehensive revisions have been effectuated across our voice and data plans,” Airtel said.

NAN reports that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), the industry’s regulatory body, had approved a maximal increment of 50 per cent tariff adjustments to operators, citing the need to ensure the sustainability of the telecommunications industry.

The commission said its approval was in response to prevailing operational costs and was made pursuant to its power under Section 108 of the Nigerian Communications Act, 2003 (NCA).

The NCC said that, while recognising the concerns of the public, the decision was made after extensive consultations with key stakeholders across the public and private sectors. (NAN)

Edited by Christiana Fadare

A’Ibom governor warns against unauthorised press statements
Metro

A’Ibom governor warns against unauthorised press statements

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 Statements

By Isaiah Eka

Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has warned incoming State Executive Council (EXCO) members not to issue press statements without the approval of the Secretary to the State Government.

The governor gave the warning during a Sunday service at the Uyo Archdiocesan Headquarters of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Itiam Etoi in Uyo.

Eno stressed that only the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor and the incoming Commissioner for Information can issue press statements on behalf of the government.

He urged the citizens and government officials to uphold peace and unity in the state at all times, calling for continuous efforts toward fostering harmony.

The governor encouraged officials to carry out their duties with decorum, avoiding chaos or actions that might disrupt the peace and unity of the state.

He explained that the clarification was necessary before constituting the new Executive Council, assuring that he was building a team focused on delivering the ARISE Agenda.

“No government appointee has the right to issue a press statement without clearance from the Secretary to Government,” Eno said.

He urged cooperation to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

Eno further explained that only two people, the Commissioner for Information and the Chief Press Secretary, have the authority to speak on behalf of the Akwa Ibom State Government.

“We must continue to maintain decency and decorum in the state, ensuring the growth of peace and unity. Together, we will deliver democracy’s benefits to our people,” he said.

Eno reminded appointees to emulate the Biblical Joseph from the Egyptian cabinet, embracing a forgiving spirit and working towards the state’s development.

The governor also praised the Church for its organisation and commended the homilist’s message on peace and harmony.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Christian community in the state, ensuring their continued growth and well-being.

Earlier, the Methodist Archbishop of Uyo, Rev. John Ene Koko-Bassey, spoke on “Forgiveness,” referencing Genesis 45:3-5.

He urged Christians to emulate Joseph’s forgiveness in the face of offences. (NAN)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

FG working to correct January salary shortfalls – JPSNC
Metro

FG working to correct January salary shortfalls – JPSNC

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Salary

By Joan Nwagwu

The Joint Public Service Negotiating Council (JPSNC) has assured federal workers that the government is addressing discrepancies in January salaries, which were reportedly lower than previous months.

Mr Benjamin Anthony, National Chairman of the council said this while speaking with newsmen on Monday in Abuja.

Anthony was reacting to concerns raised by some federal civil service workers about shortfalls in their January salaries.

He disclosed that the shortfalls were traced to a “systematic error’’ in the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).

“We received complaints, though not in writing, from workers about reductions in their January salaries compared to what they received in October to December, 2024.

“Following the complaints, we issued a memo to all industrial unions to gather details from their members and revert to us, to enable the council escalate it to the federal government for correction.

“Some sources, though unconfirmed from IPPIS, told us that there was a problem.

“They said that it was a systematic mistake from the computers and that they are working to correct it.

“I believed that they are working on it and it will be corrected,” he said.

Anthony urged the affected workers to formally report the discrepancies through their industrial unions to aid resolution.

“We have already written to the Head of Service of the Federation and she has promised to forward the complaint to the Accountant General office to know what the issue is all about.

“She also assured us that, if there are issues, every worker will be paid their correct salaries,’’ he said.

Anthony enjoined the affected workers to check their salary structures to verify their expected earnings before raising concerns.

He said part of the problems might be linked to the peculiar allowance negotiated by the council, which the government had agreed to continue paying, but appears to have been omitted by the IPPIS system.

“The federal government has agreed to continue paying the peculiar allowance, and I believe that is what the system mistakenly removed.

“It will be reinstated, and the affected workers will receive their full entitlements,” he assured.

Anthony expressed confidence in the Head of Service’s commitment to resolving the issue promptly. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Public service: FCTA builds leadership capacities of young civil servants
Metro

Public service: FCTA builds leadership capacities of young civil servants

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By Philip Yatai

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has commenced a capacity building programme to nurture leadership abilities of young civil servants for effective public service.

Mr Grace Adayilo, Head of FCT Civil Service stated this in Abuja on Friday, at the opening of the1st Cohort of the FCT Leadership Enhancement and Development Programme (FCT LEAD-P).

Adayilo explained that the FCT LEAD-P was one of three core training programmes established under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP), 2020 to 2025.

She said that the programme specifically targets civil servants on grades level 10 to 14, made up of highly talented individuals deemed essential for the succession planning and transformation of the civil service.

According to her, the programme is strategically designed to attract, recruit, and nurture these individuals through a comprehensive array of training activities.

“LEAD-P is regarded as a pivotal element for the future of public service, with its guidelines informed by the FCSSIP, policies governing leadership management and succession planning in the civil service.

“Establishment of the FCT LEAD-P is a crucial step toward ensuring that we have a pool of highly skilled and capable leaders ready to take on the challenges of governing our vibrant capital territory.”

She disclosed that the FCT LEAD-P aims to train a minimum of 100 officers every year to cultivate a new generation of leaders.

She added that the officer would be equipped not only with the requisite knowledge and skills but also with resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to FCT’s shared vision of public service excellence.

Adayilo said that the move would establish a solid foundation for effective succession planning that fosters a culture of self-development, designed to enrich the civil service landscape.

The head of service commended the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, for approving the programme, which demonstrated his commitment and visionary leadership.

She encouraged the beneficiaries to embrace the opportunities for learning, networking, and personal growth that lie ahead.

The Permanent Secretary, Common Services, FCTA, Mr Babatunde Ajayi, said that the programme marks a significant and transformative chapter in the journey toward building a dynamic and efficient civil service in the FCT.

“This programme is not just an educational endeavour; it is a gateway to self-discovery and professional growth.

“Our commitment extends beyond mere training; it is about nurturing a culture of leadership that resonates throughout every level of our administration.

“Each successful cohort of this programme will be regarded as the elite crop of civil servants, distinguished by the depth of knowledge and expertise they have acquired,” he said.

On her part, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, acting Director, Reform Coordination and Service Improvement, FCTA, said that the programme was the first of its kind in the history of the FCT.

“This is the first time this is happening in the FCTA to fill the identified gaps in service delivery following a result of a baseline research,” she said.

Ahmadu Said that 975 officers applied for the programme, out of which only 100 would be selected for a 7-months training within and outside the FCT.

She said that the officers would be trained to fill the gap in the next generation of leaders when their time comes to become directors, permanent secretaries or head of service.

She explained that the officer would be trained to work in any of FCTA’s secretariats, departments and agencies, including serving as technical assistants to political appointees. (NAN)

Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi

Don advises FG on affordable housing for vulnerable individuals
Metro

Don advises FG on affordable housing for vulnerable individuals

287 total views today

 

By Lydia Ngwakwe

A retired Professor of Sociology, Lai Olurode, has urged the Federal Government to partner the private sector to deliver affordable housing for the vulnerable in the country.

Olurode disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos.

He was reacting to the Federal Government’s proposed construction of 100,000 social housing units for vulnerable groups across the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the country.

Olurode said the housing could be smaller units like a room and parlor, instead of full flats, to reduce costs.

He recommended that local materials such as  mud and thatch should be used for the construction to lower construction expenses.

He said the cultural context of the target beneficiaries’ locations should be considered to prevent abandonment of the housing units.

Olurode urged the government to ensure that the housing project benefits the vulnerable groups it intended to serve.

He called on the Federal Government to ensure proper monitoring of the project to avoid being hijacked by powerful individuals and elites.

“It’s a laudable decision if the governments have come out to say that it will deliver that large scale houses across the 774 LGAs in the country.

“But the caveat is that accessibility must be guaranteed by the vulnerable group.

“The project must not be allowed to be hijacked by very powerful individuals, politically well-connected and dominant economic elites who, in terms of affordability might be able to muster the financial strength to purchase the funds.

“We don’t know what the criteria will be, if the vulnerable groups are really the targets, how are they to be reached? How are we going to make sure that they are not short-changed?,’’ Olurode said.

He urged the government to use the Lateef Jakande’s housing project in Lagos as a model, which successfully targeted low-income groups.

He also stressed the need for accurate data collection in identifying the vulnerable population.

He advocated the use of the National Identification Numbers (NINs) to gather information about the unemployed, uneducated, homeless, and those without skills.

Olurode highlighted the failures of past programmes due to lack of accurate target, suggesting that the government could work through the local governments and grassroots organisations to identify these individuals.

He noted that housing alone was not enough to tackle the challenges in the country.

He advised the government to come up with a comprehensive system of social services, which would include basic income support for the elderly, unemployed youths, and others in need.

“ I think what is missing in Nigeria’s development trajectories is the fear of government to render social services.

“What do I mean? If you have  name, you have national identity numbers for every group, you have data on them, whether they are on NIN or on any income at all, then you can support them to open an account, even if it’s only N10,000.

“So that the burden on the income of the working individuals who currently support vulnerable family members will reduce.

“Because by the time that you have a house or roof over your head and you cannot feed, the next thing you will think of is to sell the house,’’ he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

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