NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Exchange rate: Expert lauds NNPCL strategy to strengthen currency

Exchange rate: Expert lauds NNPCL strategy to strengthen currency

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By Emmanuella Anokam

An economic expert, Dr Chijioke Ekechukwu, has lauded the emergency three billion dollars crude oil repayment loan secured by the National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPC Ltd) from Afreximbank to stabilise exchange rate.

Ekechukwu said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

He said the loan came as a matter of expediency to save the continuous free fall of the naira in the shortest run.

The economist said there was no other measure or monetary/fiscal policy decision that would have been able to save the depreciation of the naira in such a short period of time.

“It is, therefore, a very necessary intervention while working out other medium to long-term remedial solutions to the Naira fall.

“The intervention is inevitable because that’s the only way we can wriggle out of the economic embarrassment we find ourselves now as a result of the very high exchange rate,” he said.

However, he advised the three tiers of government to desist from extravagant cost of governance.

According to him, all is not economically well, so we need to adjust our expenditure pattern and total cost of governance.

The naira float had seen the currency plunge from below N500 per dollar on the official exchange windows to a record low of about N900 naira.

Petrol now sells at N617 from the first increment of N540 per litre since May 29, when President Bola Tinubu announced that fuel subsidy was gone.

NAN reports that the NNPC Ltd. and Afreximbank had recently signed a commitment letter and term sheet for an emergency three billion dollars crude oil repayment loan.

The deal, according to NNPC Ltd., will provide immediate disbursement to enable the NNPC Ltd to support the Federal Government in its ongoing fiscal and monetary policy reforms aimed at stabilising the exchange rate market.

It will cushion the effect of fuel price jump and scarcity of forex, associated with the free float of the naira. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

PR professionals endorse Ali-Balogun as NIPR president

PR professionals endorse Ali-Balogun as NIPR president

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By Rukayat Moisemhe

Alliance of Frontline Public Relations professionals has endorsed Mrs Nkechi Ali-Balogun as the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) for the forthcoming election in Abuja.

Mr Odion Aleobua, convener of the group, made this known via a statement on Saturday in Lagos.

Aleobua said the alliance, with a collective vision for the future of PR in Nigeria, firmly believe in Ali-Balogun’s transformative leadership and her capacity to drive positive change within the industry.

This, he said, was possible especially as she was the first woman in Nigeria in the running to lead the umbrella body for PR professionals in Nigeria.

“Having held the esteemed position of leading the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Nkechi has demonstrated her unwavering commitment to advancing the field.

“The alliance, which comprises leaders who have shaped the PR landscape through innovation and excellence, recognises Nkechi Ali-Balogun as a visionary leader with a deep understanding of the profession’s challenges and opportunities.

“Her track record of accomplishments, strategic insights, and commitment to raising the standards of PR has earned her the unwavering support of this influential coalition.

“At this critical juncture in our industry’s development, we need a leader who not only understands the evolving dynamics of communication but is also dedicated to fostering collaboration, growth, and ethical standards in PR practice,” he said.

President Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria, Mr Israel Opayemi, said her adeptness at delivering innovative solutions to managerial challenges has solidified her reputation as a trusted expert.

He noted that her successful journe led her to the helm of NECCI Consulting, where she serves as the Principal Consultant and Chief Executive Officer.

“Nkechi Ali-Balogun’s demonstrated passion for PR, her emphasis on continuous learning, and her inclusive approach makes her the ideal candidate to lead NIPR into a new era of excellence,” he said.

Also, Tolulope Olorundero, Founder, Nigerian Women in Public Relations, stated that her vision for the NIPR resonated with the alliance’s collective aspirations for a stronger, more influential PR industry.

She said Ali-Balogun, guided by a transformative mindset, excels in converting obstacles into avenues of growth, drawing from her own experiences to provide insights and strategies that resonate.

“Her creative intuition and strategic acumen set her apart, contributing to her triumphant trajectory as a mentor, motivational speaker, and catalyst for industry evolution,” she said.

The 2023 annual general meeting and election of new executive members of the NIPR will be held between August 23 and 25 in Abuja. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Forum offers free medical outreach to Lagos community

Forum offers free medical outreach to Lagos community

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By Lilian U. Okoro

The Heritage Advancement Forum (HAF) has offered free medical outreach to over 350 residents of Idi-Araba community in Lagos State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the medical outreach was organised by the forum on Saturday in Lagos.

Mr Aaron Irabor, the President of HAF, said that over 350 adults and children benefited from the medical outreach.

Irabor said the outreach was one of the ways the organisation makes healthcare services accessible to people in the communities, who cannot afford hospital bills.

According to him, the outreach has been on since the inception of the organisation in 2018.

Irabor said it was instituted to improve the well-being of indigent people across the country.

He explained that the organisation in addition to its series of outreach services and other charity works, had started offering scholarships to the less privileged children in primary and secondary schools.

He added that the target of the organisation was to give scholarships to a minimum of 10 children annually.

Irabor disclosed that 10 students had been enrolled into schools for the first category of the scholarship for 2023.

“The major objective for the outreach is to bring healthcare services closer to the community at no cost at all because access to medical care is a big challenge in Nigeria.

“A lot of people with one underlying ailment or the other are dying in silence because they can’t afford the exorbitant hospital bills.

“And considering the economic condition of the country, we have decided to kickoff a scholarship programme aimed at catering for the education needs of the less privileged children from primary to their secondary school level,” Irabor said.

Also speaking, Mr Anegbode Odion, the Vice President of HAF, expressed commitment of the organisation to continually ensure that the masses and indigent Nigerians have access to healthcare services at no cost.

Odion said different medical services including screening for blood pressure, blood sugar level, diabetes, eye tests, HIV tests, tuberculosis and general body checkup among others, were provided at the outreach.

He added that free drugs were dispensed to the beneficiaries based on their health conditions, while those their medical needs could not be immediately provided were referred to appropriate hospitals.

He said, “The outreach is been carried out twice in a year; this one is the first phase of it in 2023 and the second phase may take place in the next two or three months.

“Our desire is to provide the medical services any patient may need.

“But incase of any serious health challenge that we may not be able to handle immediately, we usually refer them to appropriate hospitals and follow up with the financial requirements in any little way we can.”

Dr Adedemola Adeogun, a general physician, urged the residents to take their health serious and always go for medical check-up, particularly to check the Blood Pressure (BP) level.

Adeogun, also a consulting doctor at the event, identified ignorance as major contributing factor to health conditions of most Nigerian adults, as many people with high blood pressure were not even aware.

According to him, high blood pressure is the leading cause of death among adults, saying that regular check on it can help to avert some critical conditions that may lead to death.

He recommended that every family should have the blood pressure testing apparatus, to enable the elders in the family keep a regular check on their BP.

“Every family is supposed to have the BP testing apparatus to enable them maintain a regular check on their BP status, but in situations where they cannot afford the BP testing apparatus, a regular visit to any nearest healthcare facility is advisable.

“This is because high blood pressure as a silent killer is the leading cause of death now.

“By my record, six out of every 10 patients consulted here today were hypertensive, which majority of them were not even aware because they don’t check” Adeogun said.

A beneficiary of the outreach, Mrs Usaina Aliyu-Umar, appreciated the organisation for the outreach that provided opportunity for many indigent citizens to access healthcare.

Aliyu-Umar said access to healthcare services was a big challenge to most residents of the community due to poverty.

She identified poor environment and stress as major factors contributing to the health conditions of residents of the community.

Aliyu-Umar, therefore, urged the state government to intensify efforts toward making healthcare services available, affordable and accessible to people in the community.

She said, “The economic condition and hardships in the country is taking toll on the residents; the people are stressed out and have little or no money to cater for their needs.

“A lot of people here do not have money to buy drugs when sick or even go to the hospital.

So, if the government can do more to upgrade our environment here or provide the needed medical services, it will go a long way to improve our living standard.

Another beneficiary, Mr Abubakar Ibrahim, described the outreach as an “eye opener that revealed his health condition.

Ibrahim said he was not aware he was hypertensive until he consulted with the doctor at the outreach. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Elumelu, others task youths on hard work for bright future

Elumelu, others task youths on hard work for bright future

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Bridget Ikyado

A business mogul and philanthropist, Mr Tony Elumelu, has urged youths in the country to work hard and build a bright future for themselves.

Elumelu was one of the speakers at The Everlasting Arms Parish (TEAP)-RCCG  Teens Career Conference 2023  holding in Abuja.

He told the youth on Saturday that “there is a future, but you have to be the builders of that future now.

“I did not become who I am today because I went to the best schools or was the most brilliant.

“Few things helped me in life which were hard work, discipline, sacrifice and obedience to elders and my parents.”

He also told the youth that for success to be achieved, they must go the extra mile to attain it.

“Study at night, take your studies serious, and know there are no short cuts; these and more helped me in life.

“Be disciplined to avoid bad habits and to do what you ought to do; take corrections from teachers and parents, and at higher institutions be responsible.

“Make sacrifices. I did make a lot of sacrifices to achieve my today. Make priorities, have the will power to rise above negative influences and go for positives to gain rewards in future,” Elumelu further said.

He also advised the youth to utilise the ICT to make positive impact in the country.

“Be yourself, in the world today there are a lot of influences from the ICT; social media has its impacts positively just as negatively. Know what you want and don’t abuse opportunities,” he said.

Elumelu admonished the youth not to allow their present circumstances to determine their future, and listen to their parents at all times.

“You cannot outgrow their advice, all parents wish and want the best for their children.

“Remember your humble beginnings and orientation. Shun social vices and peer group influence especially as been portrayed on social media these days”, he added.

Similarly, Ms Juliet Lamin, a U.K based Actor, Educator and Activist, advised youths to be focused in their pursuits and be intelligent about it.

She said that youths should make sure that they attain milestones at every stage of their development.

Lamin who shared her experience which changed her life completely, told the children that most better opportunities came through challenges, bitter experiences and difficult times.

“The death of my son, changed my life completely, the doors of opportunities were opened when I stood up and took responsibilities.

“I have a plan that in the next five years in the U.K to mentor 30,000 black youths to take responsibility.

“Pain, suffering, sacrifices will knock you down, but whatever circumstances you find yourself get up and start work,” she told the young people at the conference.

Another guest, Ms Dorata Oakley-Matuszyk, a teacher and social advocate, spoke on the topic: The value of Responsibility.

“Responsibility is a big business as one needs to be focused and hard working to achieve a bright future”.

She outlined what the youth could engage in to build themselves and society.

“Manage resources, work, serve others, have a right attitude, be diligent, be creative, be determined, be the light and salt to others,” she said.

In his remarks, Evaristus Uzoma-Azodoh, the Pastor in charge of RCCG-TEAP, said the programme was organised to remind children of the roles they should play in the society.

“The teens conference acts as a reminder to the children to stand on their feet, face the challenges and prepare for the future,” he added.

Also, Mrs Elizabeth Ekenyong, coordinator of the event, said it was the seventh held by the church to teach the teens to take responsibility of their future.

“Have their imagination fired through interactions with accomplished professionals in the society.

“Make them realise that no matter the odds, they can reach their goals.

“Get them understand that God still intervene in the affairs of men”.

Some of the young people at the event, Ayinda Kuzhe, Agbiyinu Sarah and Imikan Essien-Ibok, said they have learned that they have to be strong and resilent to succeed in life.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maharazu Ahmed

Perm Sec signs performance contract with petroleum ministry’s directors

Perm Sec signs performance contract with petroleum ministry’s directors

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By Emmanuella Anokam

Amb. Gabriel Aduda, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources has signed Performance Contracts (PC) with the ministry’s directors to enhance accountability and advancement.

Aduda, in a statement, on Saturday, signed by Mr Chris Ugwuegbulam, Assistant Director (Information) of the ministry urged the directors to diligently fulfill their obligations under the contract.

This step advances the implementation of the Performance Management System (PMS) within the ministry.

The PC is a formal agreement outlining responsibilities and targets between the supervisor and supervisee.

Its purpose is to enhance career advancement, accountability, results, and a performance-oriented culture within the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

The permanent secretary emphasised that the process would establish a framework for effective performance reporting, feedback, monitoring and evaluation of departmental expectations and deliverables.

He encouraged the directors to extend the approach to their divisional heads and individual staff for heightened accountability and improved service delivery.

Aduda also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing efforts to fully digitise and automate work processes, reducing paperwork and enhancing workflow, as outlined in the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan FCSSIP 2021-2025.

Mrs Adaji Shehu, Director of Human Resources Management of the ministry, expressed gratitude to the Permanent Secretary for his commitment to institutionalising the New Performance Management System in the Ministry.

The signing ceremony had witnesses from the Ministry’s Performance Management System Champions and other staff. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Salif Atojoko

Junior players dazzle audience at Ex-Squash Pro Diaspora championships

Junior players dazzle audience at Ex-Squash Pro Diaspora championships

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By Aderonke Ojediran

No fewer than 120 junior players converged on Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos on Saturday, for the finals of the fourth edition of Ex-Pro Diaspora Squash U-11,U-13 and U- 16 boys and girls championships.

The Ex-Pro Diaspora is a group retired players who organise tournaments as a way of giving back to squash and to develop the sport at the grassroots.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that it was the first time the U-11 category featured in the tournament since its Inception in 2019.

Khadija Durosinlorun, in the U-11 girls category in a best of five game defeated Shetemi Adekunle 11/6, 21/19 and 11/6, 3-0, with the audience treated to an energetic match as the players picked the ball from various angles.

The two players represented Kwara in the tournament; call it the clash of the Afonjas and you won’t be wrong.

“We’ve met a couple of times and she won some and so did I, but this time around I was determined to win and I’m glad I did.

“My focus now is to compete at the U-16 category at the Obasanjo Championships coming up in Abeokuta and win like my big sister Mistura,” she said.

In the U-11 boys category, it was a close call between Lanre Yusuf of Lagos State and David Awe of Akwa-Ibom. Yusuf won 15/11, 11/9 and 11/8, an aggregate of 3-0.

Gift Ulisis of Akwa-Ibom defeated Loveth Balogun of Kwara by 11/4, 5/11,2/11,11/9 and 14/12, 3-2, in the U13 category, it was a tough match that made the fans scream with excitement as the tension built up in anticipation of the winner of the contest.

Balogun, who couldn’t hold her tears told NAN that she could have worked harder in order to maintain her superiority over her opponent.

“I have defeated her in some tournaments, it’s painful I lost. I don’t know why I can’t stop crying, losing hurts and I don’t want to feel this way again.

“I’d focus on training hard to ensure that I don’t feel this way ever again,” she said.

The audience was yet to recover from the thrilling performance of the girls when Ayomide Omotayo of Ogun defeated Kennedy Ola of Akwa-Ibom, 13/11,3/11,4/11,13/11 and 11/7, an aggregate of 3-2.

Omotayo who has a small stature compared to his opponent was a delight to the spectators as he wowed them with his skills.

“The crowed cheered for him more, and for my age, I didn’t know how to handle that. It was distracting; I hope to learn from this and ensure that I don’t get distracted by what’s happening in the gallery,” he said.

In the U-16 girls category Khadija Abdulraheem of Kwara defeated Awawu Balogun of Ogun 11/5,11/4,11/8 in all 3-0.

Kwara maintained dominance again as Shuaib Giwa of Kwara defeated Matthew Yusuf of Lagos State, 11/7,13/11 and 12/10 an aggregate of 3-0.

NAN reports that the tournament served-off from Aug. 12 and ended Aug. 19.

Yusuf Durosinlorun, the Technical Director of the tournament said he was impressed by the quality of play on display by the players. He said, indeed, the development of squash at the grassroots was certain.

“It is safe to say the future squash is secured in the country because the quality of play seen here is commendable; the energy of these children is unmatched.

“I want to appreciate all ex-players in the diaspora that have thought it right to give back to squash. The children will be better for it,” he said.

Friday Odey, the president of Ex-Pro Diaspora told NAN that the tournament had come to stay and that it would only get better for grassroots development.

“I don’t want to brag but next year’s tournament will be bigger and better, seeing these youngsters play has given us the strength we need to keep pushing.

“I started playing like this and squash gave me a solid foundation, the focus is to ensure that these children learn to combine squash with their education. When squash stops their certificate can continue,” he said.

(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Salif Atojoko

Stakeholders applaud Ex-Pro Diaspora for grassroots squash dev.

Stakeholders applaud Ex-Pro Diaspora for grassroots squash dev.

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By Aderonke Ojediran

Some stakeholders on Sunday commended the organisers of the just concluded fourth edition of the Ex-Pro Diaspora tournament for developing squash at the grassroots.

The stakeholders gave the commendation in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

The Ex-Pro Diaspora is a group of retired players based abroad who organise tournaments as a way of giving back to squash and to develop the sport at the grassroots.

Jiya Desai, a U.S.-based squash player and her father, Sam Desai, who both supported the tournament by donating some rackets and other gears, urged the organisers not to relent.

Jiya said, “The organisers have done well by organising this tournament for them, in few years time they’d be more skilful.

“The organisers have a focus and it will translate to having a tight competition at the senior level.

“Coming here and watching these players is such a beautiful sight to behold, their energy is amazing, they pick their balls no matter the distance.”

Sam shared the same view, urging the children to remain dedicated towards developing their skills by participating in tournaments regularly.

“This is our first time in Africa and seeing this bundle of talent is amazing, with regular tournament they’d be super stars.

“Nigerians are so warm, there’s a friendly face at every turn which is refreshing. It’s different from the perception we have,” Sam said.

Olayiwola Niniola, an APC chieftain, told NAN that he’d like to support the course of the organisers in order to give the children more options in life.

“I love children, so anything to support them is what I’m out for. I’m happy to see what these ex-players have done for them, it is commendable.

“I want to adopt two players representing Ogun. I’d be responsible for the their upkeep, feeding and education; a child that wants to play an energetic sport like squash must be well fed,” he said.

Hanniel Hadison, Commandant, Custom Training School Ikeja, Lagos, also applauded the organisers for their consistency for the past four years.

“I’m proud to see these, watching them gave me goosebumps. This was how we started and there can’t be any other way to give back than to create opportunities for these children.

“I’d keep supporting them personally to the best of my ability, this is a worthy course,” he said.

Boye Oyerinde, the president, Nigeria Squash Federation, also applauded the organisers for their commitment towards the development of squash at the grassroots.

“I was thrilled with the way these youngsters displayed their skills, the energy on the court is contagious, irrespective of age.

“I commend the organisers, this will further develop squash at the grassroots and senior levels because they have started out well,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Salif Atojoko

Group assures of Adelabu’s performance as minister of power

Group assures of Adelabu’s performance as minister of power

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By Olatunde Ajayi

A political group named  Adelabu Support Group has assured Nigerians that the recent appointment of Mr Adebayo Adelabu as Minister of Power will ensure stable electricity across the country.

The group also congratulated the former deputy governor,  Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on the appointment.

This is contained in a congratulatory statement jointly signed by its Coordinator, Mr Olatosho Akinrinola and Publicity Secretary, Mrs Oke Aina on Sunday in Ibadan.

It expressed confidence in Adelabu’s capability to make the power sector a reliable cornerstone for economic growth.

“We are confident in Adelabu’s dedication, loyalty and ability to deliver as minister of power.

“The nation can look forward to a brighter future where blackouts become a thing of the past and power becomes a reliable cornerstone for economic growth,” the group said.

It expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for appointing Adelabu, while applauding him for his consistent ability to identify talents.

The group said that Adelabu would bring his wealth of experience, proven track records and understanding of economic dynamics to bear in his new role in the energy sector.

It said that Adelabu’s remarkable ability to navigate complex challenges and his dedication to driving sustainable energy solutions would reshape the landscape of power generation as well as distribution.

The group assured Nigerians that Adelabu’s tenure would usher an era of innovation, efficiency, and progress.

“His forward-thinking strategies will surely address critical issues such as energy access, infrastructure development and renewable energy adoption.

“President Tinubu’s astute decision in appointing Adelabu underscores his commitment to nurturing exceptional talent and fostering strategic leadership within his administration,” it said.

It commended the president for considering Adelabu’s dedication to public service as well as unwavering pursuit of excellence towards achieving his vision of a more robust and self-reliant energy sector.

“As Adelabu assumes his new role, we, his people, citizens and industry stakeholders alike are filled with optimism.

“Yes, by His grace, his leadership will lead to a power sector that not only meets the needs of today, but also paves the way for sustainable and prosperous tomorrow,” the group said.

The group said that Adelabu’s appointment is a testament to the government’s commitment to progress and incredible capacity of our nation’s leaders.

“With Adelabu, Nigeria is poised to embark on a transformative journey towards an electrifying future.

“President Bola Tinubu’s visionary leadership is duly acknowledged for making this bold step towards a brighter and more empowered Nigeria,” it said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Humanitarian Day: UNFPA assures support for women, girls in Zamfara   

Humanitarian Day: UNFPA assures support for women, girls in Zamfara  

203 total views today

 

By Ishaq Zaki

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on Saturday reiterated commitment to support women and girls from internally displaced communities in Zamfara in the areas of sexual and reproductive health.

 

 

 

The Head UNFPA Kaduna Office, Mrs Loide Amkongo disclosed this at a sensitisation rally to commemorate the 2023 World Humanitarian Day in Gusau.

 

 

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the 2023 Humanitarian Day is: “No Matter What” In a World Beset by Challenges”.

 

 

 

The sensitisation rally was organised by the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in collaboration with the UNFPA.

 

 

 

Amkongo said, “We want to ensure that women and girls from internally displaced communities in the state irrespective of their situation can access to sexual and reproductive health services.

 

 

 

“We want to make sure that they can access facilities of gender-based violence interms of services and information.

 

 

 

“Our focus is to ensure that we restore their dignity, we will continue to support mobile clinics for them, we want ensure that pregnant women among them brought to the health facilities.

 

 

 

“On behalf of the head of UNFPA country office, we recommit our commitment to continue partnering with Zamfara government towards rendering humanitarian service in the state, she said.

 

 

 

Also speaking, the Director Planning, Research and Statistics, State Ministry of Humanitarian and Relief Matters, Mr Isah Shu’iabu, commended the UNPFA for various humanitarian services to the state.

 

 

 

“I am using this medium to appreciate the efforts of all stakeholders especially the donors organisation and individuals, CSOs, NGOs for complementing government efforts in providing support to IDPs and other vulnerable groups.

 

 

 

“This day is very important to us as regards to provision of humanitarian services to victims of disasters and vulnerable persons.

 

 

 

“In the morning before we embark on this rally, we visited IDP camp at Saminaka area after interacting with them we shared them relief items,” Shuaibu said.

 

 

 

He expressed the state government’s commitment to continue to partner with all stakeholders in the humanitarian services.

 

 

 

Also speaking on behalf of the CSOs, Dr Yahaya Alhassan, described the event as welcome development in recognition of humanitarian services.

 

 

 

“Today, all the humanitarian actors in the state come together to celebrate this important day, we are here also to strengthen our efforts in responding to humanitarian crises,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by AbdulFatai Beki/Julius Toba-Jegede

Ibadan taught me to turn everything into opportunity – Shettima

Ibadan taught me to turn everything into opportunity – Shettima

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By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has described the ancient city of Ibadan as home where he learned to turn everything that comes his way into opportunity.

Mr Olusola Abiola, Director, Information, Office of the Vice President, in a statement, said Shettima spoke at a wedding reception at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

The wedding was between Ibukun Okunmadewa, the bride, and Obafemi Omitiran, the groom.

The bride, Ibukun, is the daughter of Prof. Folusho Okunmadewa, whom the Vice President described as ‘my beloved teacher’.

Shettima, who laced his speech with the lines from ‘Ibadan,’ a poem by one of Nigeria’s greatest poets, John Pepper Clark, said that he was in Ibadan, not as a guest, but as a member of the bride’s family to receive guests at the wedding.

“So, I’m here to receive you as guests in this ancient city of memories. Ibadan is a home to me, a home that formed me and taught me to turn everything that comes my way into an opportunity.

“This would not have been easy without the patience of my beloved teacher, Prof. Folusho Okunmadewa, whose daughter, Ibukun and her groom, Obafemi, we are here to celebrate as they embark on a beautiful journey of discovering the essence of life.”

The Vice President said that the gathering for the wedding was not that of mere friends but a closely-knit family united by the traits of time, education and unbreakable bonds.

“As I look around this room, I’m not only reminded of a city that has woven its culture, values and aspirations deep into my being, but also of how fate has played a part in expanding relationships and families,” Shettima stated.

Extolling the virtues of the bride’s father, Prof. Okunmadewa, Vice President Shettima described him as “a beacon of wisdom and guidance for vast generation of scholars.

Vice President Kashim Shettima (3rd right) and Deputy Governor of Oyo, Adebayo Lawal and Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, in a group photograph with the couple’s family, During the wedding reception in Ibadan

“I’m privileged to not only draw from this intellectual oasis of the University of Ibadan, but also to identify as a member of the family and as a qualified son of the soil.”

He said he knew how a father feels on a day that he is giving his daughter’s hand in marriage and prayed for the newly-wedded couple to deepen their love for each other.

“Giving away one’s daughter in marriage is one of the most profound bitter/sweet experiences in human existence.

“It is a reminder that life is a journey of luck, a journey of hope and a journey of change.

” But I have no doubt that you have instilled in Ibukun the moral discipline that she needs to carry on from this day, away from her first family. And I pray that her new life brings forth endless joy.”

Among dignitaries that attended the wedding reception were the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Adebayo Lawal; Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno and former Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole.

Others were the Country Representative of the World Bank in Nigeria, Shubham Chaudhuri and the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale.

Shettima also attended the wedding reception of Suliat Alli and Abdulqudus Okeowo at the University of Ibadan before returning to Abuja. (NAN)

Edited by Vincent Obi

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