NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Breast Cancer Awareness: NAOWA sensitises women in military barracks
Defence/Security

Breast Cancer Awareness: NAOWA sensitises women in military barracks

233 total views today

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), on Monday held a breast cancer awareness for women in military barracks in Abuja as part of activities lined up to kick off the 2023 Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, and the President of NAOWA, Mrs Maria Lagbaja, led the women on the campaign.

Also in attendance are the President of Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), Mrs Rekiyat Abubakar, and representative of NOWA and POWA Presidents.

In her remarks, Mrs Lagbaja said the campaign was an annual event marked across the globe in October annually to raise awareness on how to fight breast cancer.

She said that NAOWA, being a stakeholder, had always observed the event as part of its yearly activities, adding that the 2023 awareness campaign has the theme “Thrive 365”.

According to her, the Breast Cancer Awareness Month should hold a special place in every woman’s heart because it is likely that “every one of us here knows or have heard of a woman that has had the disease or died from the disease.”

She said the activities provided them with an opportunity to come together as a community and raise awareness about a disease that affects countless lives, not only in Nigeria but also around the world.

Lagbaja said the campaign was a time to unite, educate and support one another in the fight against breast cancer.

“Today, we have had a walk to create awareness in the barrack community and also exercise our bodies.

“As we conclude with the enlightening seminars, let us remember the importance of healthy lifestyles, early detection, prevention, and the power of knowledge in preventing breast cancer.

“Breast cancer knows no boundaries, and it is our duty to equip ourselves with the necessary information to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

“Through this event, we aim to create a platform for open dialogue, where we can share experiences, learn from experts, and ask questions.

“Together, we can break the silence surrounding breast cancer and ensure that no woman feels alone in her journey,” she said.

The Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) holds Bread Cancer Awareness Campaign in Military Barracks in Abuja on Monday (2/10/23)

 

On her part, the President of DEPOWA, Mrs Oghogho Musa, said that breast cancer was a devastating disease that had affected millions of women worldwide.

She said that cancer does not only affected the life of patients but their families and loved ones as well.

Musa said that the disease was one of the most common cancers affecting women, adding that early detection was crucial in the fight against it while emphasising the importance of early examination.

She urged women to do regular check up with their health care providers for annual mammogram, especially for women who are over the age of 40.

“It is our collective responsibility as wives, sisters, mothers and daughters to ensure early detection of breast cancer and it is crucial to note that breast cancer is not a death sentence.

“Early detention can lead to successful treatment and quality of life,” she said.

DEPOWA president commended the NAOWA for the initiative to create awareness on the menace in barracks to safe women.

Dr Temotope Oyinlola, a medical practitioner, advised women to regularly carry out self breast and clinical breast examinations in addition to annual mammograms for women over 40 years of age in order to help early detection of breast cancer.

She outlined several factors that could cause breast cancer, such as family history or heredity, radiation exposure, obesity among others.

NAN report that a survivors of breast cancer, Mrs Titilola Odunuga, shared her experience and lessons with other women at the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Vincent Obi

Environmental expert wants Nigeria to key into EU Green Deal
General News

Environmental expert wants Nigeria to key into EU Green Deal

166 total views today

By Deborah Coker

Mrs Astrid Arens, An Environmental Protection Sustainability expert/Founder, Digital International Platform for Environmental Protection (DIPESH), has called on Nigeria to key into the EU Green Deal, expected to start by January, 2024.

Arens made the call on Monday in Abuja at an Environmental Protection Sustainability and Humanity experts, enthusiasts and stakeholders forum.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the event was organised by the Richard George Foundation (RGF), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), in collaboration with Voice-Aid Association, Germany E. V, and DIPESH.

Arens explained that the Green Deal was about living sustainability practices, new legislation, funding to supporting development, empowerment and education/engagement needed from infancy to adult life.

She also said that it was about a new law for the EU, adding that the law entailed that all companies must be sustainable in climate, environment, and social competence for the employees.

Arens noted that Africa in general and Nigeria in particular was blessed with great mineral resources, land and weather, especially sunny weather.

The environmental expert lamented that in spite of the huge endowment, the continent was faced with climate and environmental issues.

She said that the Green Deal was a first in the history of the EU, and therefore called on Nigeria to do everything possible to benefit from the deal.

Arens further explained that DIPESH worked on the basis of the 17 Global Goals of the UN.

Arens said that it connected everything needed to change the world quickly and sustainably, adding that it was building the largest alliance for sustainability in action.

She said that other pillars of DIPESH included ensuring that companies took responsibility for their actions, act as role models for global sustainable economy, as well as worldwide support of social, environmental and planet protection. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Nigeria can make million from launching 1 satellite-NASRDA DG
Science & Tech

Nigeria can make $20 million from launching 1 satellite-NASRDA DG

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) says Nigeria could generate $20 million from the launch of one satellite if it develops its Assembly, Integration and Testing Laboratory (AITL).

Dr Halilu Shaba, Director General of  NASRDA, said in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) in Abuja the agency  was confident that the 25-year Space Policy Roadmap could be achieved.

Part of the content of the roadmap which included launching satellites into the orbit from Nigerian soil, Shaba said was crucial to the development of Space Science and Technology.

He added that achieving such facility was a humongous project that required huge resources which their annual budgetary allocation could barely handle.

He explained that they were engaging in advocacies to investors and  other countries to see how partnerships could float the project because the government might not have the sole capacity.

“We are thinking out of the box because it can bring money and we are letting people know that this can bring money.

“The government can partner with the public on that because for you to launch any satellite, the initial deposit you give for the launch of the satellite minus the kilometres you cover is $20million to launch one satellite.

“We are also at the equator and getting windows for launch are higher and then the distance to the orbit is shorter.

“ If we can be a launching destination, it means that if we are launching 20 satellites from Nigeria every year, that gives you about $400million.

“Let’s start and then identify the other issues, and Nigeria will be launching destination for other African countries and the world,”Shaba said.

The NASRDA boss further said the agency  was talking to other countries due to their interests.

He added that they were making offers to some other countries that would want Nigeria to develop the AITL and grant them access over a period.

Shaba said: “They can come, we develop this together, we share the profit, they can launch and as well have a launch pad.

“Whatever option we are looking at, it has to be to the benefit of Nigeria.’’

Shaba disclosed that the agency was developing on its Rocketry and Propulsion experience, although its profits were coming in trickles.

He said that the agency was exploring to engage every platform to educate Nigerians about Space Science and Technology.

The avenues they were exploring, Shaba said included expanding the scope of their social media engagements targeted at the youths and the banks for development of visibility tools.

“We are also looking at expanding broadband reach to rural areas which we got the approval from the Federal Executive Council in November 2022.

“We are already ahead with that, some of the equipment are here already and we are testing the broadband to see its speed.

“When you talk of digital economy, you cannot remove satellite and we want our youths to identify with all these areas because we are open to anyone,” Shaba said  (NAN)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

NGO seeks safe spaces for health workers to report medical negligence
Health

NGO seeks safe spaces for health workers to report medical negligence

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By Abujah Racheal

An NGO, Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC), has called for safe environment for health workers to report negligence of duty.

Mrs Chika Offor, the CEO of VNDC, made the call in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) in Abuja.

She spoke on the sidelines of alleged negligence in handling the case of Ms Greatness Olorunfemi, who was pushed out of a moving vehicle by suspected criminals.

NAN reports that sympathisers rushed the victim to Maitama District Hospital, but she did not get medical assistance until she died.

Offor said that the government can create a safe environment for healthcare workers to report negligence of duty and misconduct without fear of retaliation.

“We must encourage and protect whistleblowers who come forward with information about negligent practices.

“This will help to expose and address systemic issues within the healthcare system,” she said.

Health workers, she said, often fear retaliation or negative consequences for reporting negligence, such as job loss or damage to their professional reputation.

“There is lack of robust legal protection for whistleblowers, making it risky for health workers to come forward,” she said.

She said that reporting negligence could involve navigating complex and time-consuming bureaucratic processes, which discouraged some health workers from reporting incidents.

Offor said there could be peer pressure or institutional cultures that discouraged reporting, with a prevailing “code of silence.”

“Inadequate confidential reporting mechanisms often hindered health workers’ ability to report negligence discreetly.

“Health workers may not have been adequately trained in recognising and reporting negligence.

“ High workloads and understaffing could limit the time and energy available for health workers to report incidents.

“Some health workers might not even be aware of the processes or channels available for reporting negligence,” she said.

She urged Nigerians to raise awareness on medical negligence.

This, she said, can be done through social media campaigns, community discussions, and public forums.

She encouraged them to share their stories and experiences to highlight the impact of negligence on them and the healthcare system.

“We have to encourage open dialogue and engagement with healthcare providers. This can be done through town hall meetings, patient feedback mechanisms, and regular interactions with hospital management.

“This will encourage patients and their families to speak up about their experiences and concerns,” she advised.

She also called for stronger regulatory bodies that oversee the healthcare sector.

She called for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure and resources.

She called on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and other relevant agencies to educate Nigerians on their rights and responsibilities in healthcare settings.

“People must be encouraged to be active participants in their own care, ask questions, and report any signs of negligence.

”They must be empowered to demand quality care and hold healthcare providers accountable.

“The ministry should work with civil society organisations that focus on healthcare advocacy. Join forces to amplify the voices of patients, share resources, and coordinate efforts to address negligence in hospitals,” she said.

She encouraged Nigerians to engage with policymakers to advocate for policy reforms that prioritise patient safety and address negligence in hospitals.

NAN reports that the FCT Administration (FCTA) set up an investigative panel in Abuja to  investigate the death of late  Olorunfemi.

Mandate Secretary of the Health and Environment Services Secretariat at the FCTA, Dr Dolapo Fasawe, said the panel, made up of representatives of the Nigerian Police and other stakeholders, would ensure that justice is served.

Fasawe explained that at a meeting with the management of the hospital, information received showed that the criminals shoved the victim, out of the moving vehicle on Sept. 26.

She added that a “Good Samaritan” took the deceased to the hospital at 8:35 p.m., but she died due to alleged negligence of the medical team at the hospital.

Responding, the Medical Director, Dr Imuentinyan Igbinovia, denied the allegation and said the victim was brought in dead. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FGC Idoani alumni pledges support to alma mater
Education

FGC Idoani alumni pledges support to alma mater

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By Femi Ogunshola

The Federal Government College (FGC), Idoani, Ondo State Alumni Association, has reiterated commitment to give back to its alma mater through shared value and collective responsibility.

Mr Temitope Akinlonu, the President of the association, made this pledge on Sunday in Abuja at the 2023 Annual General Meeting of the association.

The theme of the meeting was, “Beyond Boarders, Embracing Diversity and Inclusion.”

He said the alumni would ensure that shared opportunities and experiences once cherished were passed down to future generations.

Akinlonu said the connection that bound them to their alma mater extended beyond their student years.

He said that the bond had not only shaped them, but also equipped them to face future challenges.

According to him, the connection has helped in fostering lasting friendships and indelible memories.

He said that the commitment to unity and giving back was evident in the alumni’s community actions.

Akinlonu said the alumni returned to the school, both as individuals and groups, with the purpose of identifying  pressing needs and offering support.

Mr Adeuga Adeniyi, the Public Relations Officer of the association, said the alumni acknowledged the importance of not overshadowing the school’s responsibility as it received subvention from various sources, including alumni contributions.

He, however, said that when the need arose, the alumni community stepped in to address pressing issues that might delay action in the school.

“An example of this dedication is their initiative to illuminate the school premises by installing streetlights, providing a solar-powered borehole and generator.

“We have also undertake essential maintenance tasks such as tiling, roofing, and painting and through our unwavering commitment and support, we are shaping a brighter future for generations to come,” he said.

He further said that the alumni had gone the extra mile by establishing scholarships, not only through the contributions of the association, but also with the generous support of individuals.

Adeniyi said that the scholarships aimed to reward and nurture the brightest students and ensuring that they continued to excel academically.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the AGM featured a series of sporting competitions tagged “ALUMNILYMPICS 2023.”

There was an impressive turnout of alumni, including older sets of 80s who graced the event.(NAN)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Insurance College pioneer Rector bows out, recounts “tough” journey
Business

Insurance College pioneer Rector bows out, recounts “tough” journey

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By Rukayat Adeyemi

Dr Yeside Oyetayo, pioneer Rector of the College of Insurance and Financial Management (CIFM), Lagos, has described her efforts to build the institute from the scratch as “tough, but interesting”.

 

Oyetayo told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Monday that she resumed at CIFM in April 2014 when the college had neither funds nor structures on ground.

 

She explained that the college was still operating from the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria’s (CIIN’s) building at Ebute-metta, when she was appointed.

 

“There was neither a structure, an administrative plan nor a solid academic curriculum in place for the college at that time.

 

“The college was only running a few short-term technical courses and the Agency Proficiency workshops annually at different locations, but mainly at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Alausa, Ikeja,” she said.

 

According to her, her first task was to choose a team to work with and then develop curriculum for some approved programmes with the help of some of her former colleagues at the Lagos State University (LASU).

 

Oyetayo stated that curricular for five programmes were later developed and approved by the CIIN’s Governing Council for the college.

 

The programmes included Diploma in Insurance, Foundation programme, Graduate Induction, among others.

 

“We began the promotion of our programmes and movement to the campus in Jan. 2015 to facilitate the commencement of the Diploma in Insurance Programme.

 

“Our faculty was drawn from the pool of skilled and passionate trainers in the academia and the industry.”

 

According to her, five insurance companies nominated a total of 17 students to enrol in the college and the maiden diploma programme took off in January 2015, while the students graduated within a year.

 

The rector said that the college was like a start-up business for her because it had no visibility within the insurance industry, hence she began the pace-setting and trail-blazing task of putting together a world-class institution.

 

She noted that the college, which was envisioned to be ‘the Insurance College of Choice of Africa’, was strategically positioned to provide cutting-edge training of global standards, with supports from local and international partners.

 

Oyetayo commended the board of CIIN for approving her request of a take-off grant of N20 million, which though was barely enough to furnish and run the college.

 

She stated that she sought ways to drastically increase the college’s revenue through trainings.

 

According to her, within a couple of months of her resumption, a more robust calendar introducing training programmes in areas where skill gaps were identified in the industry was designed.

 

The rector said that the CIIN’s board also sourced funding, developed strategic plans, and pursued the CIFM project with so much dedication.

 

She stated that the insurance industry contributed immensely to the infrastructural development of the college through the donation of equipment, generators, sponsorship of buildings and chalets, which facilitated rapid growth of its campus.

 

“The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), the insurance firms,

professionals and members of the CIIN Council rallied round the CIFM.

 

“It was often said that the college was the future of the CIIN. I am sure everyone is proud to say the CIFM is their college.

 

“We simultaneously commenced the task of getting the college registered with the

Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and creating a brand for the college, leveraging on CIIN programmes which served as a platform to sensitise the

industry about the college’s activities.

 

“We began collaborative training with the International Labour Organisation (ILO)Impact Insurance Facility and German Corporation for International Cooperation ( GIZ).

 

“We furnished and inaugurated the college, organised short-term training programmes that more than doubled the number and income of the college in the previous years.

 

“In the first year of operating as a college, we achieved a lot, so much that members

of the board were amazed at the number of activities that were going on in the

college,” she said.

 

According to the rector, the college is currently doing great and has grown tremendously, from operating under the Training Directorate in the CIIN Secretariat to a full-fledged college.

 

Oyetayo said the college had also grown from an annual income of N20 million in 2014 to about N290 million in 2022.

 

She stated that the college similarly developed from three unfurnished buildings to seven fully-furnished accommodation and office space and a 1500-seater hall named after NAICOM.

 

The rector expressed optimism that the CIFM, having become a brand, would, in the next few years, expand the scope of its services beyond Africa and grow into the global insurance college of choice that it was envisioned to be.

 

“The CIFM platform afforded me the opportunity to become the first female Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Insurance College in Africa.

 

“I was also able to impact positively on the African continent through my membership of the African Association of Insurance Educators and Trainers (AAIET) and the African Insurance Organisation (AIO) Book Review Committee, among other contributions.

 

“To the glory of God, I am leaving a solid legacy that will endure for a very long time

 

“As a pacesetting pioneer Rector, I will continue to contribute my quota to the industry in other capacities when called upon,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

RUKY/ETS

Nigeria’s space industry valued at bn – Shaba
Science & Tech

Nigeria’s space industry valued at $1bn – Shaba

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By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

Dr Halilu Shaba, Director-General, National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), on Sunday said that Nigeria’s space industry could be valued at 1billon dollars.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, Shaba explained that the agency had developed the critical mass required for the sector to thrive.

Another factor he explained that determined the value of the sector, he said, was the position of Nigeria at the equator which gave it an advantage over some other countries.

“ The value of Nigeria space industry should be worth one billion dollars because we have developed the critical mass, we already have a design of what our next satellite will look like, but we need funds.

“ Again, because we are sitting at the equator, all our communications satellites used to have very wide coverage, they are more than any other country.

“ Angola launched but the footage is not all over Africa but our satellites will always have footage all over Africa, not only for West Africa and that gives us the market.

“ We value ourselves as the only operators at the equator and because of that we imagine our reach, that alone gives us a unique position,’’ Shaba said.

The D-G further said that the agency was putting measures in place to liberalise space technology and engage more Nigerians to be more aware to ensure transparency in its service delivery.

Shaba said: “A lot of people use this technology without knowing, they use Global Positioning System (GPS), hand-held phones and they don’t even know that these are space technology.

“ In everything we do these days, technology is being used but the common man is not even aware that this same technology is brought to fur.

“ We are talking to the people who will break it down to the citizens through the relevant institutions.”

He added that the agency had overtime strengthened partnerships with universities to transform the culture of research.

He explained that the issue of security had been a setback to achieving a 24-hour research culture.

“ We are working to change the culture of research because you must have security.

“Comparing with some other countries that are into space science technology, you see that they have about a 24-hour research culture but in the case of Nigeria, we just have about eight hours and yet we are competing.

“ We have been consistently trying to see how our centres and campuses located sometimes in the outskirts of town can improve on research by having 24 hours, ” he said.

Shaba said the agency had also been encouraging its researchers to further their studies by undertaking Masters and Doctorate Degree programmes for more in-depth knowledge, hence the critical mass. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Group hails CDS for outstanding achievements in 100 days
Defence/Security

Group hails CDS for outstanding achievements in 100 days

317 total views today

 

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Better Nigeria Movement (BNM), a Civil Society Group, has commended the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, for his exemplary leadership and dedication to the security and stability of Nigeria.

Coordinator of BNM, Olayemi Esan, gave the commendation on Monday in a congratulatory message to the CDS on his 100 days in office as defence chief.

Esan said the defence chief had since his appointment on June 23, demonstrated a high level of professionalism and competence in the discharge of his duties.

She said that Musa had continued to give operational directives to the Armed Forces of Nigeria through the service chiefs in line with the directive of President Bola Tinubu to the military and other security agencies to tackle the nation’s security challenges.

According to her, the CDS has assured the nation of the commitment of the armed forces under his command to put an end to the security challenges facing the country.

Esan said the Nigerian military had, since the appointment of Musa, recorded significant achievements in the fight against various security threats in various parts of the country.

“Under the Chief of Defence Staff’s leadership, there has been a significant reduction in the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the Southeast region which has impacted more positively on the economy.

“His strategic approach and collaboration with other security agencies have contributed to a more stable environment in the region.

“The CDS has ensured that the military respects human rights and engages in dialogue with stakeholders to address the root causes of the agitation.

He has also ensured the reduction of the impact of bandits and Boko Haram, who have been terrorising the northwest and northeast regions respectively, she said.

The coordinator said that Gen. Musa’s leadership had deployed more troops and equipment to the areas confronted with insecurity and intensified intelligence gathering and collaboration with other security agencies.

She said the efforts of the CDS towards mitigating the impact of terrorism and banditry as well as safeguarding lives and properties of Nigerians was evident in the decline of the threats in various parts of the country.

“In Southern Kaduna, Operations have also been expanded to close some gaps to stop terrorist activities in some local governments of the region.

“The fight against oil thieves, who have been depriving Nigeria of trillions of naira in revenue.

“These achievements are remarkable and commendable, considering the challenges and constraints that the CDS inherited from his predecessors.

“We appreciate his courage and commitment to restoring peace and order in our land,” the group added.

The group urged the CDS to continue to do more in the next phase of his tenure and assured him of support and cooperation in the bid to fulfil his mandate.

She also called on Nigerians to rally behind the armed forces in the effort to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation.

According to her, the challenges facing the nation require a collective effort, and we must stand united in the face of adversity.

“Together, we can create a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.

“We are confident that with Gen. Musa at the helm of affairs, Nigeria is in safe hands and if he can achieve all these in 100 days, what the future holds is indescribable.

“We also implore the government and relevant authorities to continue providing the necessary resources and support to ensure the success of his security strategies,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama/Idris Abdulrahman

Stay away from revoked lands or be prosecuted: FCTA warns former owners
Metro

Stay away from revoked lands or be prosecuted: FCTA warns former owners

167 total views today

By Philip Yatai

The Department of Development Control, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has warned former owners of 165 revoked lands in the FCT to stay clear of the properties or be prosecuted.

The Director, Mr Mukhtar Galadima, gave the warning in Abuja, when his team foiled an attempt by some of the owners of the revoked lands in Maitama, Abuja to continue development on the sites.

This, he described as “worrisome” , in spite of the revocation order placed on the lands

Accompanied by some security personnel, the development control officials confiscated building equipment found on the sites, arrested some of the workers for profiling and chased others out of the sites.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Minister of the FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, had revoked 165 plots of land in the FCT for non-development of the properties.

The revocation, according to the minister, is due to the continuous contravention of the terms of agreements as contained in section 28(5) (a) &(b) of the Land Use Act.

“The FCTA minister has revoked some plots for non – development and also gave last warning on abandoned buildings since December 2022.

“It is unfortunate that those revoked properties, some people are trying to come back and work on them, particularly on weekend.

“We got information that some owners of the revoked lands are moving to site in violation of the order.

“We are on this operation to ensure that nobody go back to all the revoked plots to work on them.

“We also want to use this opportunity to warn the public that any revoked property that somebody is trying to work on, the FCTA will not only remove such structures but will ensure prosecution of the person involve,” he assured.

When asked if any of the affected owners of the plots had gone to Court to seek redress, Galadima said, “I am not aware of anything like that.

“But if at all, someone has gone to the Court, then I will live it to the Court to decide, but for now I am not aware of such.” (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

63rd independence anniversary: DRTS boss tasks Nigerians on patriotism
General News

63rd independence anniversary: DRTS boss tasks Nigerians on patriotism

155 total views today

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) has called for a renewed spirit of patriotism and nationality among Nigerians as the nation marks its 63rd independence anniversary.

Dr Yusuf Suberu, National Coordinator, Road Traffic and Vehicle Inspection Mayors, made the call in a message to commemorate the nation’s 63rd independence celebration on Sunday in Abuja.

Suberu, who doubles as Squadron Leader, FCT, said although Nigeria was facing multifarious challenges, nonetheless the country had witnessed significant improvements in some areas.

He urged Nigerians to use the period to give thanks to God for keeping the country, adding that the foundation of some developed countries arose from patriotism of the leaders and citizens of such countries.

“Our country may be ranked among the lowest in the human development index, but there is hope that happy times will be here again.

“Despite the negative impression portrayed about some few Nigerians across countries of the world, more Nigerians have also contributed immensely to the growth of several developmental policies of different economies.

“It is, however, pertinent to call on Nigerians at 63 to respond to the call for patriotism and nationalism, which would enhance and strengthen our democracy and a better economy for our dear nation.

“Rather than grieving over the problems and challenges facing the country, Nigerians must as a matter of necessity move away from lamentation and hopelessness to a new era of hope and positivity about the future of the country,” he said.

The VIO chief said Nigerian leaders were not unaware of the task before them but they also required sacrifice by all Nigerians.

Suberu said Nigeria was blessed with human and other natural resources that could be harnessed for potential growth and development in all spheres.

“Hence the leaders and the citizens must learn to emulate the culture of patriotism, which is the bedrock for success in every society.

“Patriotism is a clarion call to loyalty to one’s society. All over the world the sole mantra for growth and development of any nation boils down to this concept,” he said.

Suberu, however, appealed to Nigerians not to lose hope in their leaders as most nations had passed through similar challenges and emerged stronger.

He said, “thank God that President Bola Tinubu has promised a renewed hope. I have strong hope and conviction that Nigeria will also overcome these challenges. This too shall pass away and happy times be will here again.

“The APC government under the leadership of Tinubu has not left anyone in doubt as to its readiness to restructure, and re-position the country on the path of socio-economic development.

“While it is the responsibility of government to provide the conducive atmosphere to all citizens to realise their potential, we all must work to make Nigeria work again because the era of waste and impunity has gone.”

Meanwhile, Suberu hailed the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, over massive road construction and rehabilitation in the territory.

He commended the network of road constructions ongoing, adding that it would give the FCT a face-lift and provid succour to the motoring public.

He said it would also attract investors into the territory and improve free flow of traffic in Abuja and environs.

“I want to appreciate him for a job well done and enjoin him to keep up the tempo so as to bring back the territory to its garden city status. And as a traffic mayor, we are excited and in total support of the government,” he said. (NAN) (www.namnnews.ng)

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Edited by Salif Atojoko

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