NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Hospital Negligence and quest for patients’ safety

Hospital Negligence and quest for patients’ safety

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By Abujah Racheal, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

In every profession the practitioners are bound to make mistakes. A tailor, out of negligence, may make a mistake while cutting materials same as a plumber while fixing the pipes.

However, while some mistakes and negligence in some professions can be tolerated, in other professions, it could be fatal and irredeemable.

In this category are medical and health workers. Negligence on their part can lead to devastating consequences for patients and their loved ones.

Medical negligence, according to the Free Dictionary, is the improper, unskilled, or negligent treatment of a patient by a physician, dentist, nurse, pharmacist or other health care professional.

It underscores the critical need for healthcare providers to prioritise patient safety, maintain stringent standards of care, and foster a culture of accountability.

Patient safety refers to efforts and measures taken to ensure the safety, well-being, and quality of healthcare services provided to patients.

It encompasses various aspects such as preventing medical errors, reducing harm, improving communication, promoting patient empowerment, and establishing a culture of patient safety within healthcare facilities.

On the occasion of World Patient Safety Day, with the theme: “Engaging patients for patient safety”. The theme was selected in recognition of the crucial role patients, families and caregivers play in the safety of health care.

Ms Nkechi Akande, 39, a school teacher went to hospital for a surgical procedure, unaware of the challenges that awaited her.

Akande alleged that due to negligence, her condition took a turn for the worse, plunging her into a nightmare she never anticipated.

“During my hospital stay, my vital signs were not adequately monitored, medications were administered incorrectly, and post-operation care was inadequate.

“As a result, my health rapidly deteriorated, and I experienced severe complications. What should have been a straightforward procedure turned into a journey of pain, multiple corrective surgeries, and an arduous recovery process,” she narrated.

She said that the impact of this went beyond the physical realm, affecting her mental and emotional well-being.

“Anxiety, depression, and a loss of trust in the healthcare system became her constant companions. However, I decided to transform my harrowing experience into a catalyst for change.

“Driven by a desire to prevent others from enduring a similar ordeal, I became an advocate for patient safety,” said Akande who is now a health care safety advocate.

She has been sharing her story, raising awareness about the importance of proper hospital protocols, staff training, and patient empowerment.

“Collaborating with patient safety organisations, I have dedicated myself to ensuring that hospitals prioritize patient well-being and implement robust measures to prevent future incidents,” she said.

Akande’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating impact hospital negligence can have on Nigerians and their families.

Although she has been vocal about her experience, hers is almost a common development in many hospitals nationwide most of which have gone unnoticed.

According to experts, the emerging concern of patient safety in the country has been described due to its large population.

This calls for effective patient safety policies and infrastructure to address quality issues in healthcare.

While patient safety received attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in areas such as sanitation and infection control this focus has declined and COVID-19 threat diminishes.

Although some patients or their loved ones have gone to the court to seek redress when they think their safety has been compromised, most others just move on with their lives.

However, legal experts say the Nigeria’s laws also protect the rights of patients to safety.

Dr Henry Okeke, Lecturer, International Law &Jurisprudence Department, Faculty of Law, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, said Nigeria is a common law country which has adopted common law principles in its medico-legal considerations.

“It is true that there exist health regulatory framework and that such regulatory services can be extended to the administration of Patient safety related matters?

“Of course, any health law that promotes the wellbeing of the patient is considered as promoting patient safety, except that it may not optimally regulate liabilities arising out of patient safety-related offences and matters,” he explained.

Okeke, therefore, urged Nigerian legislators to pass more laws that would strengthen the safety of patients and overall quality of health care delivery in the country.

Ducit Blue Solutions, an organisation which seeks to enhance quality service delivery and patient safety in Nigeria, said that patient safety was essential for the quality and effectiveness of healthcare services.

It said that to ensure safe healthcare practices in the country, the government and other key health players should establish a Patient Safety Programme Board that oversees the strategic delivery of education.

“They should also provide adequate and high-quality educational resources and train staff to practise safely,” it said in a report.

But government says it is taking steps to address the challenges.

Dr Shetak Gilbert, Head of Patient Safety/Oxygen, Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), said that Nigeria has developed the first ever National Policy and Implementation Strategy on Patient Safety and care quality.

Gilbert said the policy is in line with the Resolution 18 of the 55th World Health Assembly (WHA 55.18) which called for member states to recognise the burden of patient safety and to set up policies to manage them.

“The National Patient Safety and Care Quality policy focuses on improving different aspects of patient safety including family engagement in health care, medication safety, surgical safety, infection prevention and control (IPC) etc. etc.

“The document aligned with the FMOH four-point agenda: improving quality of health governance in Nigeria and improving population health outcomes.

It is also in line with medical industrialisation-the value chain of the health sector; and improving health security- preparatory response to public health threats,” he explained.

According to the Chairman National Advocates for Health (NA4H), Mohammed Usman, the Nigerian healthcare system recognise the importance of patient safety and has made efforts to address this issue.

“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in collaboration with other stakeholders, has developed policies and guidelines to improve patient safety standards and practices in the country,” he said.

Usman said it was important to note that while efforts were being made to improve patient safety in the country there was still plenty of work to be done.

“Challenges such as limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and systemic issues can hinder progress.

“However, with ongoing commitment, collaboration, and implementation of evidence-based practices, Nigerian patient safety can continue to improve, ensuring better healthcare outcomes for all patients,” he explained. (NANFeatures)

**If used please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria

SMSE as bailout to Nigeria’s economic woes

SMSE as bailout to Nigeria’s economic woes

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By Olawunmi Ashafa, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

 

Since the attainment of independence 63 years ago, Nigeria has been battling with development issues, despite its natural endowment in human and material resources.

 

Several strategies by successive civilian and military administrations have met with limited successes.

 

Apparently, this position explains the recent gathering of stakeholders in Ilorin to brainstorm on the way forward to local production of the nation’s needs as against what some have described as present waste of foreign exchange on importation.

 

The forum was organised by one of the major stake-holding organisations in  Nigeria’s business platforms – the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN).

 

A former Director-General, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Amb. Ayoola Olukanni, was the guest lecturer at the SMEDAN retreat.

 

The retreat was organised for a stratum of the agency to diagnose the theme: ‘Enhancing the Institutional Capacity for Greater Impact on the Nigerian MSME Ecosystem’.

 

Olukanni, a diplomat with practical experiences around the world, did not mince word as he highlighted the reasons for Nigeria’s stunted growth since independence.

 

He noted that the topic for the discourse could not have been more relevant in the current economic landscape.

 

Before the discovery of crude oil in Oloibiri in the Niger Delta in the 1950s by Shell D’Arcy, after 50 years of unsuccessful exploration, the mainstay of the country’s economy was majorly agriculture showered with a few other natural resources that dotted various regions.

 

Apparently, due to the discovery of oil wells in the Delta area, the groundnut pyramid in Kano, coal deposit in Enugu and the natural endowments in Jos like columbite which dates back to the 1940s were sideline for the black gold.

 

The country has, however, continued to wallow in abject poverty despite development policy reforms in all sectors of human endeavour but which implementation have continued to draw down.

 

Experts recalled the woeful implementation of the Operation Feed the Nation, a strategy deployed by the Olusegun Obasanjo military regime in the 1970s to boost agriculture, while the situation was same for the Shehu Shagari administration’s Green Revolution that gulped several millions  of the nation’s hard- earned  revenue in the Second Republic.

 

However, few significant record of the Buhari-Idiagbon era can be remembered in terms of that regime’s economic policy and war against corruption and sharp practices, both in public and private lives of the Nigerian citizen.

 

The Ibrahim Babangida leadership flattened the economy with the embrace of the International Monetary Fund’s bait.

 

This finally brought the economy to comatose despite the oil windfall recorded during the eight-year rule, achieving very little results as a result of the high-grade corruption that characterised that regime.

 

However, a cursory look at the post-Babangida regime has  shown a bit of seriousness as though, the Sanni Abacha government attempted to fight corruption with the establishment of the ‘Failed Bank Tribunal’ , his economic policy was not significantly different from those of his predecessors.

 

Abacha had been accused of using the machinery and instrument of the State to fight his perceived  enemies by hauling them into Kirikiri Prisons and other detention camps across the country, all in the name of clearing the ‘haven of corruption’.

 

Despite the opportunities, the Obasanjo civilian administration initially showed a green light of seriousness on the part of a regime ready to re-jig the economy for posterity following the reliefs sought and granted by international monetary agencies, on debt forgiveness.

 

Again, corruption and financial indiscipline eventually eroded the debt pardon.

 

The Buhari civilian administration did not fare better than the Umaru Yar’Adua and Goodluck Jonathan’s, apparently due to lack of economic sense, though there is similarity to the running of public office in other African nations where the economy have been run aground like Nigeria’s.

 

Nigeria, like other developing nations have been faced with stunted growth and rising debt levels.

 

The World Bank has also counselled African governments to, without delay, focus on macro-economic stability, domestic revenue mobilisation, debt reduction, and productive investments to reduce poverty and boost shared prosperity from medium-to-long term rescue policies.

 

Giving credence to the position of the global bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB) headed by a Nigerian, Akinwumi Adesina, notes  that Africa presently faces  an annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) shortfall that can  exceed 127.2 billion dollars by 2030.

 

According to AfDB, this is if current trends in climate finance flow into Africa continues, noting that the continent may lose as much as 12 per cent of GDP.

 

While statistics by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows  the importation of, at least, 10 items, including crude palm oil, vegetable products, animal products, meat, vegetable fats and oil, steel products, plastics, clothes and textiles from various countries worth N18.12 trillion between 2016 and 2022 that drains the country’s foreign reserves.

 

Experts, including Olukanni, were quick to advise the Bola Tinubu led-administration to evolve what they termed systemic economic recovery agenda, to bail the country out of the doldrums.

 

To Nigerians, it is now more than ever before that the government should evolve strategies for economic growth and development to eradicate poverty through wealth creation for increased fiscal stability.

 

Olukanni noted  that the issue under focus ‘’underscores the pivotal role that Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play in fostering economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and driving innovation.

 

Noting that the ‘’theme also acknowledges the essential role that SMEDAN, as a leading agency, plays in promoting and supporting the growth of these enterprises’’.

 

Olukanni asked the participants to embrace the retreat as a catalyst for transformation agenda driven by a shared commitment to elevating the Nigerian MSME ecosystem.

 

‘’Let us harness the power of collaboration, innovation, and inclusive growth to shape a future where Nigerian entrepreneurs thrive, jobs are created, and economic prosperity is shared by all.

 

 

‘’As we explore pathways to enhance institutional capacity, may we remember that our efforts ripple beyond these walls, influencing the lives of countless entrepreneurs, families, and communities’’, he further charged.

 

While acknowledging the prime position of the sub-sector, the guest lecturer noted that with over 40 million MSMEs contribution to employment and which account for about 50 per cent of the country’s GDP, the platform equally served as the backbone of the country’s economic configuration.

 

He said: ‘’Their ability to adapt quickly to market changes, drive local innovation, and foster entrepreneurship makes them a critical force in shaping our nation’s economic future’’.

 

As direct pathways to enhanced capacity, Olukanni said it was essential to consider actionable corridors that can amplify SMEDAN’s institutional capacity for a greater impact on the Nigerian MSME ecosystem that can serve as guiding principles as the country navigate the complexities of the evolving economic landscape.

 

They include “Holistic Capacity Building” that will incorporate technical skills that fosters a culture of continuous learning, adaptability, and innovation.

 

Collaborative partnerships with government agencies, private sector players, academia, and international agencies to leverage expertise, resources and networking for knowledge exchange and cross-sectorial initiatives.

 

Other areas are partnerships with government agencies, the private sector and the academia while international organisations can leverage expertise, resources, and networks to create a multiplier effect to strengthen SMEDAN’s impact.

 

Equally, SMEDAN can explore innovative financing models, including venture capital, impact investment, and crowd-funding platforms by connecting MSMEs with funding sources tailored to their needs, the agency can address the financing gap and drive sustainable growth while women and youth empowerment should be embraced for national growth and development.

 

According to Olukanni, the potential of MSMEs should extend beyond national boundaries by fostering the growth of MSMEs across states and local governments, establishing MSME councils, facilitating ease of doing business, and promoting regional hubs of entrepreneurship for economic growth.

 

He further explained that interaction with international organisations, tapping into global best practices, and participating in cross-border initiatives could expose SMEDAN to new ideas, technologies, and opportunities that can be translated into local impact.

 

Asking SMEDAN to adopt robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to assess the outcomes of its initiatives.

 

According to him, by measuring progress, identifying success stories, and learning from challenges, SMEDAN can refine its strategies and optimise its interventions for the growth and development of national economy. (NANFeatures)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

****If used, please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria****

Human trafficking: Africa must shift attention to male child – Author

Human trafficking: Africa must shift attention to male child – Author

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By Adeyemi Adeleye

A Nigerian author and novelist, Gbenga Sokefun, has called on African leaders to beam searchlight on human trafficking of the male child.

Sokefun, the author of a fiction, “Adigun”,  in a release made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos said that trafficking of the African male child had received far less attention, despite the simple fact that it existed.

According to him, the phenomenon of human trafficking, though as old as human society, is receiving global attention and considerable political effort is being applied to the fight against it.

He said that the focus of these efforts had been primarily on female children in general, including African female children trafficked for purposes of prostitution and other forms of indentured servitude.

He said: “The pressures of poverty and the inherent psychological damage of colonialism have resulted in a brisk trade of young African boys and men under the auspices of narcotics smuggling.

“The perpetrators have created a pathway for the African male child, whose solution to the inadequacies of the continent is escape to the ‘greener’ pastures of the Americas, Europe or anywhere away from the continent of Africa.

“They prey on the dreams and desires of these gullible children who seek a better life on other continents.

“They offer alternatives to the common avenues for illegal migration – stowing away on merchant vessels, walking miles into the Sahara, or visa violations – exploiting the reality that the coming of age of the African child has become indistinguishable from the desire to reach western world.”

Expounding the menace in his book, “Adigun”, published by Europe Books, Sokefun said that human trafficking of African male child has come of age.

According to him, the book, “Adigun”, is his rendition of this reality, while conveying the beauty of the African tradition and picturesque natural environment; showing the world the disparate elements of the coming of age of the African male child.

He explained that the title character, in his mid-teens, felt constrained to head out to the foreign land and was lured into a trap by evil adults.

Sokefun said that he  clearly highlighted the harsh reality of the journey and the truth that awaits the trafficked.

He added: “Adigun, is an intriguing novel, playing across three continents, that illustrates the delicate inter-play of diverse cultural influences in a sprawling narrative that spans several decades.

“This story captures the enduring power of friendship, family and human bonding that survives (and often conquers) cultural dislocation.

“Adigun describes the experiences of two West African boys, forced by different (though related) circumstances to spend their late teens and early adulthood in separate Western countries.

“One in the UK and the other in the U.S., they both struggle to discover themselves under the dual burdens of survival in foreign lands, while still contending with the pressures of their native cultures.

“Both stray to the edges of criminality. Both cross the line, each dealing with blurred moral lines in their distinct ways, and end up reuniting with surprising answers to their questions about what is really important in life.”

He said that the the story shifted between the sun-drenched, tropical paradise of the West African town of Jobore and its environs, foggy London, Chicago, Washington, and Maryland, while featuring a suspenseful (and often amusing) adventure in Amsterdam.

According to him, the earlier years are mainly seen through the eyes of the main character, as he grows up in the Nigerian town of Jobore, before going on to secondary school in Tuke.

Sokefun said that series of mishaps led the main character to fall into the hands of hard men who roped him into a murder plot that ended with him also trafficking narcotics to New York.

Explaining the book further, he said  that the main character narrowly escaped from the authorities in New York which eventually led him to Washington, where a cartel boss saved his life and takes him in.

Analysing the main character, the writer said,  “Adigun is  a precocious, energetic child, with an oblivious attraction to adventure and a propensity for getting in trouble.

“He is smart in a distracted way and his energies are untethered by any particular longterm ambitions.

“In sharp contrast is Chike, Adigun’s neighbour in Jobore. Crisp, disciplined, and studious, Chike arouses Adigun’s suspicion and admiration in equal measure, making for a tumultuous, on-and-off friendship that ends when Chike’s family moves away in pursuit of his father’s fortune.

“This is where their paths diverge until their mid-teens, when they meet again under dangerous circumstances, conspiring to execute a deception that will affect their lives for decades to come.

“They part ways once more until fate, or a series of uncanny coincidences throws them violently together again after almost twenty years.”

He explained that both of the main characters faced the fundamental challenges of becoming men under the extended shadows of their fathers.

He said that for Adigun, the challenge included the psychological schism caused by trying to reconcile his loyalties to his biological father and his adoptive father.

Sokefun said that Adigun’s moral compass was formed by his biological father, who fell short of his own standards, betrayed his family and sold out his son.

According to him, on the other hand, his adoptive father, a criminal, has provided Adigun with a safe haven, material security, and a sense of family.

 

“Even if it is a family of drug peddlers and murderers. Adigun must find his own path to maturity.”

 

Speaking further, the author said that Chike, the second character, was determined to break free of his billionaire father’s control and build his legacy, reputation, and fortune.

 

Sokefun said that Chike broke several rules to achieve his success until he discovered secrets about his father that brought him closer to the man, and ultimately back into his inheritance- a multi-billion-Dollar pharmaceutical empire that is riddled with intrigue, betrayal and violence.

“Both of the main characters are forced to confront the consequences of their actions in business and relationships and, in their disparate bids to correct their errors, they are once more reunited in a violent climax that highlights the importance of brotherhood and trust, as well as the dual nature of man.

“This sets the stage for a reset in the main character’s life, the story ending with him facing another moral choice,” the author said. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Independence: Support Tinubu for dividends of democracy, Lagos APC tells Nigerians

Independence: Support Tinubu for dividends of democracy, Lagos APC tells Nigerians

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By Adeyemi Adeleye

The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says only collective support for President Bola Tinubu can bring manifold dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, the Lagos State APC Chairman made this remark in his congratulatory statement on the occasion of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary on Sunday.

Congratulating the party faithful and Lagos residents on the anniversary, Ojelabi said that Nigeria had continued to wax strong over the years because of the grace, mercy and power of God that kept her citizens in unity despise the diversity.

He implored residents of the state to sustain the formidable unity for the continued growth, development of Lagos, “for peace to keep reigning in Nigeria”.

The chairman also urged residents to continue their support for Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his team for them to keep providing the people with the dividends of democracy.

He implored the citizenry to be law abiding always and go about their activities peacefully. (NAN)

Edited by Edith Bolokor/Chioma Ugboma

NEMSA boss commends Tinubu for signing Electricity Act

NEMSA boss commends Tinubu for signing Electricity Act

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By Constance Athekame
Mr Aliyu Tahir, Managing Director, Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA), has commended President Bola Tinubu for signing the 2023 Electricity Act into law.
Mrs Ama Umoren, Head, Communication and Protocol, NEMSA in a statement in Abuja on Sunday, said Tahir stated this while felicitating with Tinubu and Nigerians on the nation’s 63rd Independence Anniversary
Umoren said that Tahir, who is also the Chief Electrical Inspector of the Federation, commended Tinubu for his leadership drive and passion to leave behind a better and improved electricity supply services in the country.
The NEMSA boss also applauded the untiring efforts of the Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, to provide the needed policy direction in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).
Tahir recalled that NEMSA was established by Electricity Act, 2015 (now Electricity Act, 2023), to carry on the functions of enforcement of technical standards and regulations, technical inspection.
”Some of these functions include testing and certification of all categories of electrical installations, electricity meters and instruments to ensure an efficient production and delivery of safe, reliable and sustainable power supply.
”We also guarantee safety of lives and property in the Nigerian electricity supply industry and other allied industries/workplaces and premises,” he said.
According to him, the priority of the agency is for Nigerians to have electricity networks that are stable, safe and reliable.
Tahir said that through close collaboration with partners, NEMSA strives to ensure zero incidences of electrical accidents, energy accountability, eliminate sub-standard equipment and materials, and rid the system of quack electrical personnel.
He said that one of the strategies to realise the vision was through effective service delivery.
”We are doing this by consistently applying our corporate culture defined by a simple set of corporate values of quality service and safety, honesty and integrity, as well as leadership and collaboration,” the statement quoted Tahir as saying. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ephraims Sheyin
American varsity Nexford recognises 5 Nigerian graduates

American varsity Nexford recognises 5 Nigerian graduates

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By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Nexford University (NXU), a next-generation online university based in Washington DC, U.S.,  has awarded five Nigerian students for being outstanding in academics and character during its 2023 graduation event.
Speaking at the ceremony held on Saturday at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Fadl Al Tarzi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NXU, said that the institution was very proud of Nigerian learners.
While Daniel Oreofe was awarded the Outstanding Volunteer of the Year, Sonter James emerged the Outstanding Brand Ambassador.
Accolades filled the  air as James Ogo-Oluwa Osinowo was awarded the Valedictorian of the Year for Class 2023 having bagged a 4.0 CGPA alongside over 40 other Nigerians.
Announcing the awardees for the Class of 2023, Nexford’s Community Development Manager, Sally Okogho, noted that 42 Nigerian students graduated with a 4.0 CGPA (distinction) out of the 622 graduates.
Tarzi, who described Nigerian students as resilient, said they valued education of which had distinguished and placed them higher across the world.
The NXU CEO also urged the graduates to showcase their superior skills to the world, adding that Nigerians in the U.S. were, on the average, twice as educated as the average American.
“ It is time for you to ascend to leadership, redefine perceptions, and engrave your marks on societies, whether here in Nigeria or beyond your borders.
“ If your journey takes you to foreign lands, remember, you are the architects of perceptions, the ambassadors of our values.
“ Make those lands realise the privilege of hosting Nigerian talents,  showcase your superior skills and let the world witness the value you add, and the legacy you create,” he added.
Speaking, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, said academic institutions like Nexford would help Nigeria fix human capital deficiencies.
According to Ezekwesili, who is a Board Member of NXU, the university is one of the global institutions that has visibly given the skills that are necessary for the 21st century.
“ If we increase our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and we spread the sources of our GDP, what we will have is inclusive prosperity, so we must have graduates of this kind from as many institutions as possible,” she noted.
Similarly, Tonye Cole, Co-founder/former Group Executive Director, Sahara Group, in his keynote address, urged the graduates to expect challenges as they move to the next phase of life.
“ Do not be afraid to fail, even when you do, start again, try again and retrace your steps and be courageous for every success story has stories to tell.
“You have to decide on your own but you must seek wisdom to guide your steps, this is key because it is what you need to navigate the world and keep your eyes on your goal.
“ Again, do not be afraid to fail, even when you do, start again, try again and retrace your steps and be courageous for every success story has stories to tell.
“ I know a lot of people would like to run away (Japa), but that’s not going to solve the problem, we have challenges here in Nigeria, and those challenges are opportunities,” he added.
The valedictorian, James Osinowo, in his speech, narrated how Nexford University inculcated resilience, teamwork and perseverance in the learners.
According to him,  the university exposes students to “possibilities and opportunities”.
 Osinowo said: “Immediately I completed my MBA in January 2023, the following month saw me receiving an offer for the role of Group Finance Manager and it’s just the beginning.
“One of the important lessons we’ve learned during our time here is the power of resilience. We’ve faced demanding assignments and tests, grueling projects and sleepless nights, yet we persevered,” he said.
The graduation ceremony also witnessed master classes, a career fair with Nigeria’s leading companies, a start-up demo and an exhibition.
During the start-up pitches and exhibition, seasoned experts like Iyin Aboyeji of Future Africa, and Napa Onwusah, Leader for AWS Startups in Africa among others tutored the graduates.
The master class sessions centred on building and scaling a startup, designing a fulfilling career, becoming globally relevant, sales skills for founders and succeeding in a remote job environment. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
Nigeria @63: Tinubu lauds founding fathers’ dedication, leadership

Nigeria @63: Tinubu lauds founding fathers’ dedication, leadership

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By Ismail Abdulaziz

President Bola Tinubu has lauded the country’s founding fathers for their doggedness, patriotism and activism that culminated into Nigeria’s freedom from colonialists 63 years ago.

He stated this on Sunday in Abuja in an address to Nigerians on the nation’s 63rd Independence Anniversary.

He said that their efforts gave life to the belief in Nigeria as a sovereign and independent nation that it is today.

“On this solemn, yet hopeful day, let us commend our founding fathers and mothers. Without them, there would be no modern Nigeria.

“From the fading embers of colonialism, their activism, dedication and leadership gave life to the belief in Nigeria as a sovereign and independent nation.

“Let us, at this very moment, affirm that as Nigerians, we are all endowed with the sacred rights and individual gifts that God has bestowed on us as a nation and as human beings. No one is greater or lesser than the other.

“The triumphs that Nigeria has achieved shall define us. The travails we have endured shall strengthen us. And no other nation or power on this earth shall keep us from our rightful place and destiny.

“Nigeria is remarkable in its formation and essential character. We are a broad and dynamic blend of ethnic groups, religions, traditions and cultures. Yet, our bonds are intangible, yet strong, invisible yet universal.

“We are joined by a common thirst for peace and progress, by the common dream of prosperity and harmony and by the unifying ideals of tolerance and justice.’’

Tinubu said that building a nation of shared vision always come with various challenges that must be conquered and resolved in the overall interest of the citizens.

“Forging a nation based on the fair application of these noble principles to a diverse population has been a task of significant blessing but also serial challenge.

“Some people have said an independent Nigeria should never have come into existence. Some have said that our country would be torn apart. They are forever mistaken. Here, our nation stands and here we shall remain.

“This year, we passed a significant milestone in our journey to a better Nigeria. By democratically electing a 7th consecutive civilian government, Nigeria has proven that commitment to democracy and the rule of law remains our guiding light.’’

The president said that the commitment of the security forces, the legislatures, judiciary as well as the civil society organisation was a force that binds the country since independence.

He said that the administration would continue to accord highest priority to the safety of lives and property of Nigerians, adding that already, inter-agency collaboration had been enhanced.

“Inter-service collaboration and intelligence sharing have been enhanced. Our service chiefs have been tasked with the vital responsibility of rebuilding the capacities of our security services.

“I salute and commend our gallant security forces for keeping us safe and securing our territorial integrity. Many have paid the ultimate sacrifice. We remember them today and their families.

“May I take this opportunity to congratulate the National Assembly for its role in the quick take-off of this administration through the performance of its constitutional duties of confirmation and oversight.

“I similarly congratulate the judiciary as a pillar of democracy and fairness.’’

The president pledged to continue to recognise all segment of the country in appointment into various areas of national responsibilities as promised during campaigns.

“We shall continue to make key appointments in line with the provisions of the Constitution and with fairness toward all. Women, Youth and the physically challenged shall continue to be given due regards in these appointments.’’

Tinubu urged that all hands must be on deck to see the labour of the nation’s founding fathers bear fruit for the benefit of all Nigeria. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali

We’re working with FG to fix federal roads in Abia – Otti

We’re working with FG to fix federal roads in Abia – Otti

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By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom

Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has said that the state government has reached an agreement with the Federal Government to jointly rehabilitate the federal roads in the state.

Otti said this on Saturdayat the Government House, Umuahia, during a media parley organised by the state government to brief journalists on the achievements of the present administration, since its inception.

The governor said that plans were underway to commence the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt and Ohanku Roads in Aba.

He said that state government is working closely with the Federal Government to reconstruct the Umuahia – Bende -Ohafia Roads and other federal roads in the state.

He said the state government had  commenced palliative work on Umuahia -Ikot Ekpene Road to put an end to the hardship experienced by motorists on the road.

“We are working closely with the Federal Government to ensure that these roads are maintained and rebuilt, so that the bad  name that we get from those roads will be a thing of the past,” he said.

Otti said that the decision to embark on the Ossah-Mission Hill Road expansion project  was informed by the desire to open up the state for economic development.

He said that 130 buildings had been marked for demolition and the payment of  compensation to people  whose buildings were affected by the ongoing exercise was in progress.

“The last time I checked the total amount of money for compensation was about N771 million and that has already been paid.

“Some people have not received theirs because of the discrepancies in the account details they provided.

“Some others have not received because of family contention about whose account would be used to receive the money,” he said.

On Abia Innovation Industrial Park,Otti said that the government would harness the oil and gas reserves in Owaza in Ukwa West Local Government Area to change the fortune of the people of Owaza and the state at large.

He said that there would be monetary compensation for the owners of the land on which the park would be sited and added that they would be given employment opportunities.

Otti said that the commitment of the state government towards boosting local content remains strong, hence the resolve to build an industrial park.

He said that the host community had been neglected in the past and added that the present administration is poised to change the narrative.

He said that during the ground breaking ceremony of the industrial park, the people expressed happiness over the recent development as it had given them a sense of belonging.

“If you were present there today during the ground breaking ceremony, you will sympathise with the people that live there, because it is very sad  that the place where oil also comes out from in the state is in that state.

“A community that makes us to be addressed as oil producing state,it is not fair to leave them in the state they are and that is why they trouped out in their numbers to receive us,” Otti added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Julius Toba-Jegede

 

 

We’re taking paths to economic greatness, says Tinubu

We’re taking paths to economic greatness, says Tinubu

153 total views today

By Ismail Abdulaziz

President Bola Tinubu said that the Federal Government has been taking the paths to economic greatness since his administration assumed office in May.

Tinubu stated this in an address on the occasion of the nation’s 63rd Independence Anniversary on Sunday in Abuja.

He said that the actualisation of these objectives would be pursued without fear or hatred but for the good of all Nigerians irrespective of religion, culture or class.

‘’At my inauguration, I made important promises about how I would govern this great nation. Among those promises, were pledges to reshape and modernize our economy and to secure the lives, liberty and property of the people.

‘’I said that bold reforms were necessary to place our nation on the path of prosperity and growth. On that occasion, I announced the end of the fuel subsidy.

‘’I am attuned to the hardships that have come. I have a heart that feels and eyes that see. I wish to explain to you why we must endure this trying moment.

‘’Those who sought to perpetuate the fuel subsidy and broken foreign exchange policies are people who would build their family mansion in the middle of a swamp.

‘’I am different. I am not a man to erect our national home on a foundation of mud. To endure, our home must be constructed on safe and pleasant ground.’’

He said that the support and patience of all Nigerians was paramount in the success of the economic reforms that would lead to the reality of Nigeria of our dream.

He said that the Augean stable at the Central Bank of Nigeria was being cleaned while tax reform and other fiscal policies are being designed to attract Foreign Direct Investment.

‘’I pledged a thorough housecleaning of the den of malfeasance the CBN had become. That housecleaning is well underway. A new leadership for the Central Bank has been constituted.

‘’Also, my special investigator will soon present his findings on past lapses and how to prevent similar reoccurrences.

‘’Henceforth, monetary policy shall be for the benefit of all and not the exclusive province of the powerful and wealthy.

‘’I have inaugurated a Committee on Tax Reforms to improve the efficiency of tax administration in the country and address fiscal policies that are unfair or hinder the business environment and slow our growth.

‘’To boost employment and urban incomes, we are providing investment funding for enterprises with great potential. Similarly, we are increasing investment in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

‘’Commencing this month, the social safety net is being extended through the expansion of cash transfer programmes to an additional 15 million vulnerable households,’’ he said.

Tinubu said that all citizens are welcomed to join hands toward a better country, adding that ‘’we can do it. We must do it. We shall do it’’. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Subsidy: FG introduces provisional wage increment

Subsidy: FG introduces provisional wage increment

169 total views today

Subsidy: FG introduces provisional wage increment

 

Wage
By Ismail Abdulaziz

Abuja, Oct. 1, 2023(NAN) President Bola Tinubu has approved a provisional wage increment for workers in the country as part of efforts to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal.

Tinubu mage this known while addressing Nigerians on the 63rd Independence Anniversary of the country in Abuja on Sunday.

The president said that the average low-grade worker would receive an additional N25,000 per month for the next six month.

‘’Based on our talks with labour, business and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation.

‘’For the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional Twenty-Five Thousand naira per month,’’ he said.

The president said that the present administration was committed to relieving the hardship faced by Nigerians, adding that various measures had been taken by all tiers of government to mitigate them.

‘’There is no joy in seeing the people of this nation shoulder burdens that should have been shed years ago. I wish today’s difficulties did not exist. But we must endure if we are to reach the good side of our future.

‘’We have embarked on several public sector reforms to stabilize the economy, direct fiscal and monetary policy to fight inflation, encourage production, ensure the security of lives and property and lend more support to the poor and the vulnerable.

‘’To ensure better grassroots development, we set up an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas. States have already received funds to provide relief packages against the impact of rising food and other prices,’’ Tinubu said.

He said that other efforts were being taken by government to touch all aspects that would impact directly on the lives of Nigerians to ease the pains of the new economic reforms.

The president said that on the issue of transportation, a cheaper and safer Compressed Natural Gas buses would be deployed across the country.

‘’These buses will operate at a fraction of current fuel prices, positively affecting transport fares. New CNG conversions kits will start coming in very soon as all hands are on deck to fast track the usually lengthy procurement process.

‘’We are also setting up training facilities and workshops across the nation to train and provide new opportunities for transport operators and entrepreneurs.

‘’This is a ground breaking moment where, as a nation, we embrace more efficient means to power our economy. In making this change, we also make history.’’(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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