The Federal Capital Territory Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, has inaugurated the construction of 618-shop Modern Market in Zuba, Gwagwalada Area Council of FCT.
Mahmoud said during the inauguration in Zuba on Saturday, that the market would be constructed by Khuntex Engineering Company Ltd. under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
She added that under the arrangement, the Area Council would provide the land, while Khuntex would fund the construction of the market, 100 per cent.
She said that the project would be delivered within 20 months in two phases of 10 months each, adding that it would foster economic resilience and social inclusion.
The minister added that the market would also generate employment opportunities, enhance income levels, and promote skill development among rural youths.
According to her, the development is a testament of the FCT Administration’s commitment to the provision of critical infrastructures to residents, in line with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
“To solve the problem of protracted funding, the Gwagwalada Area Council decided to explore private sector funding options.
“The move leverages the utilisation of private sector in exchange for land as a resource for the development of the Zuba Modern Market, amongst other PPP initiatives,” she said.
The minister stressed the importance of market infrastructure in rural areas, which she described as a lifeline for countless communities.
“However, inadequate infrastructure often hampers their efficiency and accessibility, hindering economic growth and perpetuating poverty.
“Public-private partnerships, therefore, offer a pragmatic solution to this challenge.
“By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, we can create sustainable marketplaces that cater for the diverse needs of rural populations,” Mahmoud said.
She explained that markets provide a platform for farmers and artisans to sell their produce, goods, and services, and in turn improve the quality of life of rural dwellers.
Mahmoud said that the market would be equipped with modern facilities that would enhance the efficiency of agricultural value chains.
She added that the market was also designed to empower rural entrepreneurs to access larger patronage and better prices for their products.
The Chairman of Gwagwalada Area Councils, Mr Abubakar Giri, said that the Zuba Modern Market, when completed, would boost the revenue base of the area council.
Giri also promised to revive other abandoned markets within the area council and urged the contractor to complete the project within the 20-month period.
In his remarks, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Khuntex Engineering Company, Mr Dayo Jigan, promised that the first phase of the project would be delivered in 10 months.
Jigan said that a set of 250 units of the shops would be completed in the first phase of the project.
He explained that the market would consist of mixed units of open/lock up shops, warehouses, eatery, banking hall, restaurant, police post, fire station, public toilet, bus loading bay and other amenities in line with global standard. (NAN)
Gunmen on Friday kidnapped the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo, Mr Tony Aziegbemi.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Aziegbemi was kidnapped at a spot close to his residence at the Government Reserved Area in Benin City.
His abduction happened less than a month after the party’s primary election was held ahead of the Sept. 21 governorship election in the state.
A source told NAN that the abductors, operating in two Toyota Corolla cars, double-crossed the PDP chairman’s jeep at a speed bump in the area to effect the abduction.
Aziegbemi was returning from a meeting with Gov. Godwin Obaseki when the incident took place, the source said.
Narrating the ordeal, the driver to Aziegbemi said: “when we left Government House and heading home at about 11 p.m., I noticed the cars trailing us, so I decided to take a diversion. We never knew they were kidnappers.
“Few minutes later, the same cars appeared behind us at a speed breaker and blocked our car in the front.
“Gunmen came out of the cars, pointed guns at us and ordered the chairman to enter their car and they took him away,” he said.
He added that other gang members took over the chairman’s jeep and abandoned it on Sapele Road.
Police spokesman in Edo, SP Chidi Nwabuzor confirmed the abduction.
“It is confirmed; it happened in the jurisdiction of New Etete Police Division, also known as Godwin Abbe Police Station; that is where it happened.
“The Commissioner of Police, Mr Funsdo Adegboye, has ordered tactical teams to go after the hoodlums and we pray that by the grace of God we will rescue him unhurt,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Two Nigerian charities based in the UK will submit a report on the current security situation in Nigeria to the UK Government and Parliament on March 19.
The report was developed by academics at King’s College, London.
It is to be presented at the UK Parliament by the two organisations, Ibironke Adeagbo Foundation (IA-Foundation) and the International Organisation for Peace Building and Social Justice (PSJ), UK.
The Chief Executive Officer of IA-Foundation, Mrs Ibironke Adeagbo, told newsmen in a telephone interview on Saturday in Abuja, that the report was meant to keep the UK Government abreast of the current security crisis in Nigeria.
She said that the report had detailed and analysed “the nexus between education and insecurity in Nigeria.”
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and a former British colony, has been at the receiving end of relentless abductions of school children, mainly in northern Nigeria.
On March 8, some 287 school children were kidnapped in a school in North western Kaduna State and 15 more were abducted in Sokoto State days later.
The recurring abductions, which started since 2014, have forced about 20.2 million children out of classrooms, disrupted homes and forced millions out of their farms.
Adeagbo said that the report entitled “Illiteracy and Insecurity-an Unholy Marriage”, highlighted and appraised the relationship between education and insecurity across Nigeria’s 36 states and the FCT.
“Education has been a key sector hit both directly and indirectly with direct attacks on learning institutions and student populations with kidnappings, killings, destruction of infrastructure and sowing of fear.”
She said that the report would also be presented to Nigerian envoys and diplomats in the UK, to make them to have better grasp of the security issues at home.
Adeagbo, who has been at the forefront of tackling Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis, said that the report was being presented at a time Nigeria and the UK had renewed their Security and Defence Partnership Pact.
According to her, the pact seeks to address and eliminate all forms of terror and insecurity in Nigeria for the long-term benefit of the West African country and its former colonial master.
She said that the report presentation was also coming at a time when the Federal Government showed resolve to tackle the problems with the appointment of retired Gen. Ja’afar Isa as the Executive Director of the Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Commission.
Adeagbo said that government was beginning to act on the recommendations made by the foundation on how best to tackle the out-of-school children crisis.
On his part, the Chief Executive Officer of PSJ UK, Mr Ayo Adedoyin, said that the report also looked at the causes, trends and implications of the high rate of insecurity on the development of education at all levels in Nigeria.
According to him, the absence of peace has been a national tragedy and, particularly so in the Northern and Middle belt parts of Nigeria.
He said that the development had caused severe disruptions in various sectors of the Nigerian economy, including agriculture and transportation.
“This must be tackled comprehensively now otherwise, it will mess up our collective future,” he added.
Adedoyin said that the two charities would develop a “Draft Action Plan’’ to be presented to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Office of Nigeria’s National Security Adviser for implementation.
The Chief Executive Officer of Halogen Group, Mr Wale Olaoye, is also scheduled to make a presentation on the insecurity challenges in Nigeria during the report presentation.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
As the nation grapples with terrorism in various forms, Mr Victor Bobai, the publisher of Privilege Magazine, has urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu and the Service Chiefs in the battle against the menace.
Bobai told newsmen on Saturday in Abuja that the public support was critical to the efforts to rid the nation of the shackles of insecurity.
“All well-meaning Nigerians must unite in solidarity behind the efforts to combat terrorism and ensure national security.
“The service chiefs are doing so much. Our gallant men in the war theatres are making so much sacrifices. We must fully support them.
“The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa, has promised to put in everything toward winning the battle and freeing the country. He deserves our support,” he said.
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa
Bobai underscored the importance of collective support and collaboration in the fight against the pressing threat.
“The security challenges facing the country present a huge threat to all facets of our existence as a corporate entity. We should not take this threat lightly.
“It is important for all Nigerians to come together and support the efforts of our service chiefs and President Tinubu toward combating terrorism.
“Unity and cooperation are crucial. We cannot afford a division in our ranks. We cannot afford that luxury.
“We must show our support for the security agencies by providing them with the necessary resources and encouragement to carry out their duties effectively.
“Together, we can overcome this challenge and secure a better future for our nation,” he said.
Bobai also called on the international community to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism, emphasising the need for global solidarity in the battle against extremism.
Mr Victor Bobai, the publisher of Privilege Magazine,
“Terrorism is a global issue that requires a collective response. The international community must stand together with Nigeria in this fight.
“We must work together with our allies to address the root causes of extremism and tackle the networks that support terrorist activities.
“By working together, we can create a safer and more secure world for all.”
In a similar vein, the Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has said that those behind the rising spate of kidnappings and attacks in Kaduna and Sokoto were not Boko Haram or any other terrorist group.
“I believe that those behind the attacks must be a new syndicate bent on destabilising the security situation of Nigeria and scaring children from going to school.
“They want to ruin the government with their attacks. Tinubu should not allow it to continue because I foresee more attacks on schools by kidnappers.”
In a statement by his media aide, Oluwatosin Osho, AyodeIe urged security agencies to intensify the fight against the kidnappers by taking the fight to them.
He urged Nigerians to commit the military into prayers as God was on the side of his people and would bring their enemies under their feet.
“We all must pray and be watchful. We should not allow terrorists to ruin this government.
‘’These terrorists want to scare people from going to school, they want to destroy the future of this country but Tinubu shouldn’t agree. He should cooperate with the security outfits to defeat terrorism.
‘’Government must act swiftly. The government must wake up and tackle the evil before it spreads everywhere,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
The Debt Management Office (DMO) says the appointment of Transaction Advisers for issuance of Eurobond is subject to approval of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
The Director-General of the DMO, Patience Oniha said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja.
Oniha spoke against the backdrop of media reports that a company linked to the Minister of Finance, Mr Wale Edun, was appointed as one of the Transaction Advisers for a potential one billion dollars Eurobond.
She said that approval of the National Assembly (NASS) was also a prerequisite for such an appointment.
According to her, the appointment of Transaction Advisers by the DMO is done in accordance with the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007, and it is subject to the approval of FEC.
She said that recent news reports suggesting the appointment of Transaction Advisers for a potential Eurobond issuance were inaccurate.
The director-general said that the debt office was yet to get approval from FEC or NASS for the issuance of Eurobond.
“The Issuance of Eurobonds by the Federal Government of Nigeria in the International capital market is subject to the approval of FEC and receipt of the resolution of NASS.
“This is done in accordance with the provisions of the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007 and Debt Management Office (Establishment, Etc.) Act, 2003.
“Currently, the DMO has not received the requisite approvals from FEC and resolution of the NASS for any Eurobond issuance.
“We encourage the public to rely on official statements from the DMO for accurate updates on Nigeria’s debt management activities,” she said.
NAN reports that the company in question, Chapel Hill Denham, was one of the five issuing houses appointed in 2021 during former President Muhammadu Buhari-led government, as Transaction Advisers for Nigeria’s Eurobonds.
The other appointed companies were Citigroup Inc., JPMorgan Chase & Co., Goldman Sachs Group Inc., and Standard Chartered Bank.
With that set of Transaction Advisers, Nigeria issued a total of 5.25 billion dollars Eurobonds in 2021. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), on Friday, called on the Federal Government to enact a legislation banning importation of construction materials into the country.
Director-General of NBRRI, Prof. Samson Duna, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the ongoing Innovation and Technology Expo in Abuja.
According to Duna, banning importation of foreign construction materials will promote use of indigenous materials in Nigeria.
“The federal government should either ban the importation of construction materials or impose high taxes on them so that people will not be able to afford them.
“Let’s look inward and patronise our own goods, thereby encouraging investors to develop indigenous products,” he stated.
Duna said NBRRI had successfully constructed a storey building, using bamboo instead of steel.
He also cited the institute’s numerous research projects as evidence of the potentials of indigenous materials.
Some of the research and development outputs by the institute, he said, included NBBRI dismountable house, compressed and stabilised earth blocks and pozzolana, an alternative to cement and bamboo as reinforcement.
“Others include: rubberised asphalt for road maintenance, natural bitumen mix design specification development for road construction, fancy facing tiles, paving stone-making machines and testing laboratories and equipment,” he said.
The director-general called on government to mandate all public schools across the country to use blocks produced by the institute, adding that this would serve as an incentive to NBRRI to increase production.
Highlighting the institute’s activities, Duna said that it had constructed a building within two days at the expo.
He noted that such rapid construction methods could benefit internally-displaced persons (IDPs) across the states, if properly harnessed.
Duna expressed concern over the country’s continued reliance on imported construction materials, warning that if this was allowed to continue, it could stagnate the development of indigenous building materials.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s abundant human and material resources, maintaining that harnessing indigenous materials could significantly boost the nation’s economy.
The director-general also spoke on the challenges of commercialising research outcomes in the country.
According to him, exhibitions like the innovation and technology expo will serve as platforms to showcase research findings and attract investors.
He also highlighted the institute’s research efforts in developing materials suitable for Nigeria’s climate, including advancements in building, road and construction materials.
NAN reports that NBBRI is a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology.
It was established in 1978, with the mandate of building capacity and conducting applied integrated research and development into the various aspects of road, building and engineering materials for the development of Nigeria’s economy. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
The Chairman, Ikoyi Obalende Local Council Development Area, Lagos State, Mr Faud Atanda-Lawal, on Friday, gave 400 women grants of N50,000 each to improve their livelihood.
Speaking at the presentation of the grants to beneficiaries on Friday in Lagos, Atanda-Lawal said it was meant to support women in the council area to start or grow their businesses.
He said the beneficiaries would also get one year health insurance as well as training on financial literacy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme tagged, “Empowering Her Fortune,” was in collaboration with VFD Microfinance Bank.
L-R: Dr Abiodun Onayele, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment,; Chairman of Ikoyi Obalande Local Council Development Area, Lagos State, Mr Faud Atanda-Lawal and Mr Kolawole Peregirno, General Manager, Lagos State Printing Corporation at the presentation of grants to 400 women on Friday in Lagos
Atanda-Lawal said the council, through the Microfinance bank, opened a new bank account for each beneficiary for the payment of the grants.
The council boss noted that the initiative was designed to ensure that the council played it part in improving the livelihood its constituents.
He reiterated the commitment of his administration to raising the standard of living of all residents.
“Being in government is all about serving people and that is why there’s a human face in whatever we are doing.
“I decided that after doing infrastructural work, renovating schools, doing roads and building hospitals, what can we do for the people?
“We came up with this initiative and I am excited because of the reaction here today. You can see the joy in the faces of this women as they received the alert.
“We said let’s see how we can empower women so that they can grow their businesses.
“Today, 400 women received N50,000 each to improve their businesses and we are glad we did this,” he said.
Beneficiaries of the empowerment programme on Friday in Lagos
Atanda-Lawal noted that the council would continue to empower residents of the LCDA, and that the council would soon inaugurate other notable projects.
“By the special grace of God, we will come back in two months’ time to present grants to another set of beneficiaries.
“Things are very hard now but we must help. At Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, we love our people so much and we are not going to watch them starve.
“This community has given so much to us and we have to give back to them, I’m the chairman today, someone else will be there tomorrow and we pray they will continue on this part of development,” he said.
He charged local government chairmen to live up to expectation by empowering residents of their constituencies during this period.
He urged local government chairmen not to leave their responsibilities to the state and federal governments, adding that the local government had a role to play in nation building.
“We shouldn’t be relegated, we should continue the work for the development of our people.
“Let’s step in, and if we do what we are supposed to do, the complaints from people will reduce,” he said.
Dr Abiodun Onayele, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, lauded the council boss for empowering women.
He said any support made towards the cause of womanhood would have a multiplier effect on the society at large.
He urged the council not to relent in his quest to improve service to the people at the grassroots.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to NAN commended the gesture of the chairman.
Miss Habibat Amodu, a 20 years-old Point of Sale (POS) operator, expressed happiness upon receiving the alert, describing it as a life saver.
Amodu said she would add the grant to her capital to boost her business.
“I want to thank the chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA for empowering women and adding value to my live.
“I didn’t believe it initially but now, I can say it is real,” she said.
Mrs Rasidat Egbudu, a meat seller, also appreciated the chairman for the support at the time when things were difficult in the country.
Egbudu noted that this was the first time she benefited from a government support programme.
“I am very excited, I just received my alert. This empowerment programme is real. Thank you my Atanda-Lawal for putting smile on my face.
“I will invest this money in my business and I know in the next six months it will grow more.
I have not received any support like this before, this is real,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
By Adeyemi Adeleye
Sen. Victor Umeh, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), says civil society groups in Nigeria must brace up with courage to challenge wrong actions.
He said that they must do so to put the nation on the path of sustainable future.
Umeh spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, in Lagos, on the sideline of a two-day joint workshop with the theme, “Understanding and Sustaining Collaboration with Civil Society”.
It was organised for the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the House of Representatives’ Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters.
The workshop was organised by the European Union- EU Agents for Citizen-Driven Transformation (ACT) Programme, being implemented by the British Council in Nigeria.
Umeh, comparing the current CSOs with the old, said that the civil societies used to be all about determination, courage to bring about positive change to the society and not tools in the hands of some politicians.
Sen. Victor Umeh, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs)
The Senator said that CSOs should be propelled by people who were determined to bring about desired change in the system.
Umeh said: “It is not something those who are afraid will venture into.
“They were reputed to be die-hard people who were ready to even go to jail and risk their lives and lose their personal liberties, so.long as they were challenging wrong actions in the society.
“We want to encourage the current generation of CSOs to do same thing and know that life that is worth living now is life that is dedicated towards bringing change in the society and making necessary impacts.”
Umeh said that Nigerian CSOs must live up to expectations of engendering a country everyone would be proud of.
He said that they had to be objective in what they do and not allow themselves to be used by politicians and people who have scores to settle with others.
“When they lend themselves for misuse, they will lose relevance,” the senator said.
Speaking at the event, the Country Director, British Council in Nigeria, Ms Lucy Pearson, said that ACT was working with the civil society sector in Nigeria to strengthen their capacity and contribute to improved enabling environment for CSOs to operate.
Pearson said that the European Union had always been in support of initiatives that would promote enabling regulatory and operational environment for civil society organisations in Nigeria and around the world.
L-R: Mr Damilare Babalola the National Programme Manager EU-ACT, Sen. Victor Umeh, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), Ms Lucy Pearson, Country Director British Council Nigeria and Rep. Victor Obuzor the Chairman House Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters at the two-day workshop organised by EU-ACT on Friday in Lagos.
According to her, the workshop provides a unique opportunity for stakeholders to explore ways to strengthen the partnership between legislators and civil society organisations.
She said that such partnership would create an enabling environment where civil society thrives, legislative processes are enhanced, and the voices of all citizens are heard and valued.
“Legislators undoubtedly play a pivotal role in democratic governance, serving as the voice of the people and the custodians of the rule of law.
“However, in order to fulfil their mandates effectively, it is imperative for legislators to work collaboratively with civil society organisations.
“Civil society on the other hand serves as a crucial link between government and citizens, advocating for the rights and interests of the people, and contributing valuable insights and expertise to policy development and implementation,” Pearson said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, of Lagos State says he will continue to bridge the gap between producers and consumers, in order to foster good relationships.
Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Friday, at a conference and exhibition to commemorate World Consumer Rights Day, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The conference, with the theme: “Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers”, was organised by Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually on March 15.
The annual event is used to draw attention to the plight of consumers world over, with a view to ensuring the rights of consumers are not only protected but also promoted.
The governor said mutual understanding between consumers and producers underscored the symbiotic and interdependent relationship that existed between the two entities within any economy.
He, therefore, urged consumers and producers to foster an enduring partnership, rather than relationships that could impede sustainable growth and development in the economic value chain.
According to him, the call is necessary because it reflects a broader acknowledgment of the interconnectedness of economic actors and the need for harmonious interactions to address challenges, innovate, and adapt to changing market dynamics.
“Consumers and producers are not adversaries but rather partners in a complex economic ecosystem.
“While consumers rely on producers to supply goods and services, producers, in turn, depend on consumer demand to drive their businesses forward,” he said.
The governor assured that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment that promotes fair competition, protects consumer rights, and supports the development of small and medium-sized enterprises.
He advocated for more harmonious and inclusive approach to economic development that benefits all stakeholders.
Earlier, Mr Abiodun Tobun, Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, advised LASCOPA on strengthening its relationship with the judiciary.
According to him, this will ensure speedy trials for court cases bordering on breach of consumer rights as well as increase confidence in the activities of the agency.
Also, in his goodwill message Mr Biran Fall, QNET’s Regional Manager for sub-Saharan Africa, urged everyone to continue advocating for consumer rights within their communities.
Fall, who was represented by Nana Quartey, QNET’s Senior Regional Legal Counsel for Sub Sahara Africa, stressed on education and consumer rights in order to make informed choices and hold businesses accountable for their actions.
“Through education, consumers gain the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and protect themselves from exploitation and demand accountability.
“Empowered consumers safeguard their interests and contribute to a more transparent and competitive marketplace that benefits society as a whole.
“This significantly strengthens consumer protection laws by enabling consumers to make informed purchase decisions.
“Educated consumers are also better equipped to identify fraudulent or deceptive practices, report violations of their rights, and advocate for policies that safeguard their interests,” Fall said.
NAN reports that Qnet is a wellness and fitness direct selling company. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
The National Assembly says arrangements have been concluded to reopen the Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Liaison Office at the assembly complex to further catalyse nation-building.
Sen. Victor Umeh, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non- Governmental Organisation and Rep. Victor Obuzor, Chairman, House Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters, disclosed this on Friday in Lagos.
The duo spoke at a two-day joint workshop for both committees organised by European Union’s Agents for Citizen-Driven Transformation (ACT) Programme, being implemented by the British Council Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which had several civil society organisations and groups in attendance, is tagged: “Understanding and Sustaining Collaboration with Civil Society”.
Some participants at a two-day joint workshop for Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non- Governmental Organisation,and House Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters organised by European Union’s Agents for Citizen-Driven Transformation (ACT) Programme, implemented by the British Council Nigeria in Lagos on Wednesday, March 16, 2024. (NAN).
Speaking, Umeh said that there was the need to create space for the civil society organisations to operate, and that the current Senate leadership was committed to achieving this.
The senator said: “We need to strengthen their (CSOs) operating space, their liberty and freedom to be able to perform their roles for the benefit of the country.
“We in the National Assembly are very much aware that there is no way we can have or drive effective development in this country without allowing the civil society organisations to be on their beat, and they become the gadfly that would keep the government constantly on their toes.
“This is the only way the country can get better.
“Aware of this need, the National Assembly under the Leadership of the present Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio will be reopening the Civil Society Organisations Liaison Office in the National Assembly.”
L-R: Mr Damilare Babalola, the National Programme Manager, EU-ACT; Sen. Victor Umeh, Chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs); Mrs Lucy Pearson, Country Director, British Council Nigeria and Rep. Victor Obuzor, Chairman, House Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters, at a two-day workshop organised by EU-ACT on Friday in Lagos.(NAN)
According to him, the office will become a processing centre because the CSOs engage in different aspects of societal life.
Umeh added:“If they have a centre in the NASS, they will be able to help in generating bills and motions that will address very critical issues of the moment in Nigeria.
“We don’t need to be looking for them. Legislators can go to the CSOs liaison office and ask them happenings in the country.
“So, at every time we sit at the chamber, we will be seeing motions that will be addressing critical issues of the moment because they would have a database.
“The centre will be a data bank for legislators to tap into what is happening”.
The chairman said that the NASS had smooth relationship with the CSOs but needed to work much closer with them to, through legislative activities, give effect to some of their concerns.
“The civil society organisations and groups are the catalyst for social change in the society. They are the people that involve in all aspects of nation building.
“They search for the right policies that can drive development in the country. Aside from that they are also a kind of whistle blowers.
“In trying to hold the government accountable, they expose fraudulent activities in the system,” he added.
Describing the workshop as very commendable, Umeh applauded the European Union through the British Council for supporting and promoting the relationship between the National Assembly and CSOs.
He said that the workshop would provide direction on how to make use of the activities of CSOs in making progressive laws and various intervention legislations that would help curb the ills in the society.
Also speaking, Obuzor said that the House would work with the Senate to reinvent the CSOs Liaison Office at the NASS.
He said that the parliament was also coming up with technology enhancement to ensure seamless sustainability of the collaboration between lawmakers and CSOs.
According to him, the importance of CSOs cannot be overrated as they are too important to be neglected.
Earlier in her welcome address, Country Director, British Council Nigeria, Mrs Lucy Pearson, said that CSOs represented the voices of the people of Nigeria, saying the council was committed to empowering them.
Pearson said that the council had been working over the years to build capacity, confidence, skills and the tools of CSOs to be increasingly effective in the dialogues that would influence government policy in a compelling way.
“Our role is to empower the CSOs to connect with the people, connect with the Nigerian government and effectively represent the people in a way that is influential in terms of policy reforms,” she said.
Also speaking, Mr Damilare Babalola, the National Programme Manager of EU-ACT, said that the project was to support CSOs in Nigeria to be more credible, transparent and agent of sustainable development.
Babalola noted that the programmes had supported capacity building for about 233 CSOs across the six geo-political zones, with the focus on providing holistic organisational capacity development.
He said that the ACT had been able to facilitate collaborative engagement between the CSO as well as with other stakeholders which have responsibilities in enabling regulatory environment for the CSOs, including the National Assembly.
He said that the meeting was to ensure a form of alliance and synergy between the lawmakers and CSOs to be able to do the work better , saying “the ultimate goal is good governance for the common man on the street and in the rural areas”.
In his remark, Mr Harry Udoh, the Chairman, Civil Society National Self-Regulation Council (CNSRC), said that the country needed CSOs to be at the forefront, because of their critical roles in the development of any society.
“Our work and advocacy are based on research; the research we do will be beneficial to the lawmakers to enable them effect effective laws and have full understanding to have a better society,” Udoh said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
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