September 11, 2024

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

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Breaking News

1 Group drums support for FGs plan to privatise refineries

2 FG committed to independence of auditor-general’s office – Tinubu

3 FCTA, GAIN sign MoU on access to affordable, nutritious food

4 FG, stakeholders synergise to boost poultry production

5 Eguavoen says report of quitting false

Foreign , Metro

Wike signs MoU with Chinese companies on electricity, water supply

By Philip Yatai

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two Chinese corporations to improve electricity and water supply in the territory.

Wike disclosed this in a statement signed by Mr Anthony Ogunleye, Director of Press, Office of the Minister, issued in Abuja on Sunday.

The minister said that the MoU was signed in Beijing, China, on Saturday, with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction (CGCOC) Group.

He said that the MoU was signed on the sideline of President Bola Tinubu’s visit to China, to attend the Asian country’s Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Beijing.

He disclosed that Tinubu pushed for the projects at the summit, as part of his agenda to renew the hope of Abuja residents on the government, through execution of people-oriented projects.

Wike assured that the projects would be completed in 2025 and would be inaugurated as parts of activities to celebrate FCT’s 50 Anniversary.

On electricity, Wike said: “One key project which is very dear to us and one of the reasons why we are here today is to light up Abuja.

“We want Abuja to be like other cities, like what we see in Beijing. We have gone round, and we have seen light everywhere; that is how we want Abuja to be.

“Therefore, the whole area of Maitama; the whole area of Asokoro, Wuse, Central Business District, and Airport Road, down to Bill Clinton Drive will be handled by CCECC, while CGCOC Group would handle the districts of Mabushi, Katampe and Garki.

From Left: Chairman, CGCOC Group, Mr Lan Meizhong; FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike signing an MOU in Beijing, for the provision of water to rural areas in the FCT, while Executive Director, FCT Rural Water and Sanitation Agency RUWASA, Dr Mohamed Dan Hassan looks on.

“On the need to equally ensure water supply in the satellite areas of the FCT, we are keeping up with the idea that there is a need to have satellite town water supply in Gwagwalada, Kwali and Kuje as directed by Tinubu.

“We have now signed the MoU with CGCOC Group for them to carry out this assignment.”

Wike further said that the Greater Abuja Water Works, being handled by CGCOC Group, had reached 75 per cent completion and expressed confidence that it would be completed in December 2024.

While thanking Tinubu for granting the FCT Administration approval for the projects, the Minister urged the CGCOC Group to ensure quick delivery of the project.

This, according to him, would ensure that water supply in satellite towns becomes a reality.

In their separate remarks, the President of CCECC, Mr Chen Sichang and the Chairman of CGCOC Group, Mr Lan Meizhong, thanked Wike for the confidence bestowed on the companies to deliver the projects.

They assured the minister of quality and timely delivery of the projects.

On the Minister’s entourage were the Permanent Secretary, Treasury, Alhaji Adamu Wanki; Executive Director, Rural Water and Sanitation Agency, Dr Mohammed Dan Hassan; Director of Procurement, Alhaji Musa Idris; and other senior officials of the FCTA. (NAN)

Edited by Benson Iziama and Abiemwense moru

Health

National Hospital unveils plans to curb medical tourism

 

By Abujah Racheal

The National Hospital, Abuja, has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish a state-of-the-art medical facility that will reduce medical tourism by Nigerians.

 

The hospital’s Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Muhammad Raji, announced this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday.

 

Raji explained that the proposed facility would offer specialised services such as cardiac surgery, kidney transplants, and orthopaedic procedures.

 

He said that these are the major treatments that often drive Nigerians to seek medical care abroad.

 

“By providing these treatments here, we can keep our patients in the country and offer them the same quality of care,” he stated.

 

He also revealed plans to create a Neuro-Rehabilitation Centre, a facility currently lacking in Africa.

 

This, he said, would address the continent’s critical healthcare gaps.

 

He said that such facility would not only improve healthcare outcomes but also contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

 

The CMD called for increased public and private sector involvement to bring in much-needed resources and innovation in order to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare system.

 

“The government has many priorities, and while health is indeed one of them, we cannot solely depend on the government to cover hospital bills and other healthcare costs.

 

“We must engage philanthropists and private companies to contribute to healthcare services,” he said.

 

He also raised alarm over the dire consequences of power outages in hospitals, describing the situation as a crisis in itself.

 

He called for urgent government intervention and the exploration of alternative energy sources to mitigate the impact of power failure on healthcare delivery.

 

“Hospitals need to operate 24 hours a day with consistent power. When the electricity goes off, critical machines like ventilators, which are vital for patients’ survival, shut down, thereby posing a grave risk,” he said.

 

He commended the recent increase in the minimum wage of Nigerian workers, acknowledging it as a positive step for motivating healthcare workers.

 

He, however, stressed that more still needed to be done to ensure sustainable healthcare financing. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Idowu Ariwodola and Moses Solanke

Health

Brain drain reduces National Hospital staff to 2,500 -CMD

 

By Abujah Racheal

The National Hospital in Abuja says the brain drain plaguing the health sector has reduced its workforce from 3,000 to 2,500.

 

This is in spite its 25 years of medical breakthroughs and significant staff expansion.

 

Prof. Muhammad Raji, Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, discussed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

Raji highlighted the hospital’s achievements and its ongoing impact amid these staffing challenges.

 

Reflecting on the hospital’s remarkable growth over its 25-year history, the CMD said it began operations with a small number of  members of staff, offering  limited services primarily for women and children.

 

“Today, we provide comprehensive treatment for all genders and ages.

 

“Our services have grown significantly over the years, and so has our workforce,” he said.

 

He said that the hospital now had no fewer than 2,500 workforce, pointing out that “If it was not for the brain drain affecting our workforce, we will be talking about 3,000 today,” he added.

 

He also underscored the hospital’s pioneering achievements, including being the first in Africa to have an Alinach Machine and leading in Nigeria for Invitro Fertilisation (IVF).

 

“Notable milestones include separating conjoined twins, performing the first open brain surgery with the patient fully awake, and pioneering treatments for chronic arthritis and brain surgeries.

 

“The hospital also celebrated the birth of sextuplets, all of whom survived,” he said.

 

He recalled that years ago, many Nigerians left for the Middle East for better opportunities, a trend that had recently resurfaced.

 

“The migration of healthcare professionals from Nigeria to other countries has reached alarming levels, posing challenges for maintaining adequate staffing in Nigerian hospitals.

 

“It’s not easy to get as many healthcare workers as we need, especially with the increasing number of professionals migrating abroad,” he noted.

 

However, he said he was hopeful about reversing the trend through innovative collaborations with the Nigerians in the diaspora.

 

“The hospital has established partnerships allowing Nigerian medical professionals working abroad to return on a rotational basis.

 

“These professionals spend two weeks here and then return at their convenience, benefiting both them and our healthcare system,” he explained.

 

He urged the government and private sector to create a conducive working environment to encourage more healthcare workers to stay or return to Nigeria.

 

He expressed optimism about re-engaging Nigerian medical professionals abroad through these collaborations, which helped improve the overall quality of healthcare services.

 

NAN reports that the National Hospital will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a week of activities from Sept. 2 to Sept. 8.

 

The main event on Sept.  4 will feature lectures, a gala, and an award night.

 

The event will focus on the importance of partnerships in tackling challenges such as brain drain and medical tourism, aiming to attract both Nigerians and non-Nigerians to the hospital.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Vivian Ihechu

Health

IHVN’s IRCE showcases advances in Sickle Cell Disease at symposium

By Abujah Racheal

The International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE) at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN),
hosted a pivotal symposium on advancing care and research for patients with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

The research centre showcased the advances at its second Annual Scientific Seminar at the IHVN campus on Wednesday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that since its establishment in 2015, the IRCE had been playing significant roles in advancing
research in Nigeria, leveraging IHVN’s infrastructure and expertise.

The IRCE’s ongoing efforts include more than 40 funded research grants targeting infectious and non-infectious diseases, underscoring the
centre’s commitment to addressing health challenges through high-quality, culturally sensitive research.

This year’s event with the theme — “Expanding Partnerships in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and Cancer Research”, had an array of local and
international experts to discuss latest advancements in the diagnosis, care, treatment and innovative research in critical health areas.

In his presentation, Dr Mark Gladwin, an American Physician Scientist and Dean of University of Maryland School of Medicine,
highlighted the impact of Pulmonary Hypertension (PH) and end-organ failure in adults with SCD, a critical concern in current medical research.

He explained how chronic hemolytic anaemia in SCD patients leads to vascular damage, causing complications such as PH.

He presented extensive research data, including groundbreaking findings on the role of cell-free haemoglobin and its detrimental effects on
blood vessels and smooth muscle relaxation, exacerbating the risk of PH.

He quoted a featured cutting-edge study from Dr Prithu Sundd’s laboratory, showcasing how oxidative haemoglobin triggers Neutrophil Extracellular
Traps (NETs) in pulmonary arterioles, further complicating SCD management.

“This research suggested that NETs, circulating from other organs, contribute significantly to lung damage in SCD patients.

“The SCD-CARRE trial explores the efficacy of Red Blood Cell (RBC) exchange transfusion as an intervention to limit disease progression
and improve outcomes in high-risk SCD patients.

“Preliminary findings suggest that this therapy may reduce vaso-occlusive crises and acute chest syndrome, both of which are major contributors
to pulmonary complications.”

He emphasised the importance of defining high-risk subgroups among SCD patients, noting that those with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or elevated
biomarkers like TRV and NT-proBNP are at particularly high risk of mortality.

Dr Patrick Dakum, the Chief Executive Officer of IHVN, highlighted the strategic direction of IHVN, emphasising the importance of expanding partnerships
that include both public and private sectors, as well as faith-based organisations.

He said “partnerships are crucial to the broader health sector under the national healthcare plan.”

Dakum underscored IHVN’s commitment to expanding research in cancer and SCD.

He said “the collaboration with international institutions like University of Maryland and the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authourity is essential
for research and capacity building in these areas.”

He also stressed the importance of a public-private mix in research initiatives, aiming to leverage the strength of both sectors to achieve comprehensive
and effective outcomes in healthcare.

He said that the appointment of a special adviser on SCD by the Coordinating Minister of Health signals a significant shift in government attention
toward neglected diseases, including sickle cell.

“This move is portrayed as crucial step in ensuring that such diseases receive the necessary focus and resources,” he said.

He pointed out that a framework was being established to increase attention to neglected diseases, with SCD being a prime example.

The IHVN boss added that “the appointment of a special adviser on SCD is seen as a promising development that could lead to
comprehensive and sustained efforts in addressing the disease.”

Earlier, Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, the Executive Director, IHVN’s IRCE, stressed the need to bring SCD, particularly as it disproportionately
affects black people, into the limelight, alongside cancer.

Abimiku said that both conditions were under-recognised in terms of prevention and treatment.

She acknowledged the difficulties faced by low and middle-income countries in prioritising health issues, suggesting that critical conditions
like SCD and cancer could be overlooked amid many challenges.

She pointed out that as a country, Nigeria needs to do better in focusing on cancer prevention, including diet, exercise and other lifestyle factors,
rather than just treating the disease after it occurs.

“There is mention of the government setting up additional cancer treatment centres and diagnostic facilities, highlighting efforts to
improve cancer care in the country,” she said.

She expressed the hope that events like the symposium would bring more attention to SCD, which was particularly devastating to
young people in Nigeria and even around the globe.

She noted the importance of partnerships with institutions like the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD)
to conduct clinical trials and to discover a cure for the disease.

She said that the Coordinating Minister of Health’s task force on SCD is a reflection of Federal Government’s commitment to increase
awareness about the disease.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

Health

Virology institute hosts 2nd annual scientific symposium

 

By Abujah Racheal

The International Research Centre of Excellence (IRCE) at the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN)h has concluded arrangements to host its second Annual Scientific Symposium at the IHVN Campus in Abuja.

 

The institute’s Senior Communications Manager, Ms Uzoma Nwofor, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

 

NAN reports that since its establishment in 2015, the IRCE has been playing pivotal roles in advancing research in Nigeria, leveraging IHVN’s infrastructure and expertise.

 

The IRCE’s ongoing efforts include more than 40 funded research grants targeting both infectious and non-infectious diseases, underscoring the centre’s commitment to address health challenges through high-quality, culturally sensitive research.

 

Nwofor stated that this year’s event with the theme “Expanding Partnerships in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and Cancer Research” is scheduled for

Aug. 14 to Aug. 15, to convene an array of local and international experts to discuss latest advancements in the diagnosis, care, treatment

and innovative research in critical health areas.

 

She added that “the symposium will feature prominent figures such as Prof. Mark T. Gladwin, the Dean of the University of Maryland School

of Medicine (UMB-SOM), and Prof. Taofeek K. Owonikoko, the Executive Director, University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum

Comprehensive Cancer Centre (UMGCCC).

 

“Both will be accompanied by senior faculty from UMB-SOM, many of whom are actively involved in research initiatives in Nigeria.

 

“Nigerian experts, including Dr Obi Adigwe, Director-General, National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD),

and Prof. Obigeli Nnodu, will also share insights alongside representatives from the pharmaceutical industry.”

 

The senior communications manager also stated that Prof. Gladwin, a leading authourity in pulmonary hypertension and sickle cell disease,

would be a special guest.

 

“His (Prof. Gladwin) groundbreaking research in hemolysis-associated endothelial dysfunction has significantly advanced the understanding of complications

in sickle cell patients, paving the way for improved treatments.

 

“He is currently leading a Phase II clinical trial aimed at enhancing blood transfusion techniques to extend survival in sickle cell patients.”

 

She also noted that Prof. Owonikoko, a Nigerian-born physician specialised in thoracic oncology and translational research, would contribute to the discussions.

 

“As a key figure in oncology at UMSOM and University of Maryland Medical Centre, his work bridges critical research between the U.S. and Nigeria,” she added.

 

She quoted IHVN’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Patrick Dakum, as emphasising the significance of the symposium in marking IHVN’s 20th anniversary.

 

“IHVN has made remarkable strides in combating HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria over the past two decades. We are excited to extend our partnership

to other public health challenges like SCD and cancer,” Dakum said.

 

Nwofor also quoted the institute’s Executive Director, Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, who highlighted IHVN’s impact, noting that “this year’s symposium

builds on the foundation laid in the previous year by extending collaborations to SCD and cancer — two health challenges significantly affecting the

black population.”

 

She stated that the symposium will feature presentations, discussions and exhibitions from industry partners, fostering an environment of

collaboration, aimed at improving healthcare services and research capacity in Nigeria.

 

Nwofor reiterated that the annual event serves as platform for promoting research on public health issues of both local and global relevance.

(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

General News

Rotary Club to sponsor 30 out-of-school children in Abuja

By Ese Williams

The Rotary Club of Abuja, Kubwa (RCAK), District 9127, says it has concluded plans to sponsor 30 out-of-school children in Abuja by paying their school fees and basic academic needs.

Mrs Olayemi Idowu disclosed this during her investiture as the 10th President of RCAK in Abuja.

According to Idowu, the gesture is to reduce the number of out-of-school children from the streets in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

“We are going to sponsor 30 out-of-school children; we will bring them back to school.

“We will pay their school fees and provide basic needs such as school bags, sandals and writing materials for them,” she said.

On health, she urged the government to increase investment in the sector, especially at the grassroots.

According to her, there is poverty in the land and most people at the grassroots cannot afford basic healthcare.

She added that rotary would continue to work with the government in the area of conflict prevention and resolution by partnering with security agencies.

The newly installed president of RCAK, while reeling out the projects she intended to execute during her tenure, said maternal and child health, basic literacy, among others would be her focus.

“We will assist pregnant women in our adopted community with birthing kits and mosquito nets among others,” she said.

Commenting on the #Endbadgovernance protest, she urged the youths to embrace dialogue, adding that protest was not the solution to the issues they were protesting against.

In his opening remarks, the Chairman, Central Planning Committee, Mr Emmanuel David said that the club would embark on projects that would impact on the lives of people of the host community.

The outgone president of the club, Mr Emmanuel Abonta said that in spite of the economic hardship, the club was able to execute a number of projects.

Abonta said the projects included the construction of a traffic post and road rehabilitation at Aso Savings junction in Kubwa, Abuja.

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of awards of excellence to individuals who had distinguished themselves in the area of humanitarian services.

The awardees included,  Dr John Gabaya, the Chairman of Bwari Area Council, Chief Sheriff Agbebaku, the Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly and Sen. Philip Aduda, former Senate Minority Leader, among others.

Gabaya, who was present at the occasion thanked RCAK for its humanitarian services, especially in Bwari Area Council, and pledged to continue to support the club.

Other awardees were represented at the occasion. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Economy/Business

Group urges Nigerians abroad to buy homes, properties in Abuja

 

By Abigael Joshua

Nigerians in London and other parts of the world have been advised to acquire homes and properties in Abuja, their country’s capital, to safeguard their future financial investments.

 

This is part of efforts by the President Bola Tinubu administration to strengthen the housing sector of the economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

Many Nigerians abroad are challenged in acquiring homes and properties in the country due to exploitations and outright fraud encountered in the process.

 

The event will emphasise the importance of contributing to national development, according to TEXEM and Bilaad Real Estate, organisers of the show, in a statement.

 

‘’Investing in Nigerian real estate is not just about personal gain but also about playing a part in the country’s economic growth and infrastructure development.

 

By driving sustainable development and creating job opportunities, diasporans can positively impact the local economy and communities.’’

 

The road show would sensitise Nigerians in the diaspora on the legal and physical processes of acquiring homes and properties in Abuja.

 

The free road show would present a strategic opportunity for participants to gain valuable insights, connect with experts, and explore the vast potential of the Nigerian real estate market.

 

The theme of the event is, “Unlocking the Future: The Bilaad Real Estate Road Show for Nigerians in the Diaspora”.

 

The statement announced that renowned personalities would provide information on the dynamics of real estate, while participants would gain a comprehensive understanding of the Nigerian real estate market, with a particular focus on Abuja.

 

According to the statement, presentations will cover current trends, the benefits of investing in the market, and success stories that highlight the sector’s potential.

 

The statement said that the event offers practical training sessions on effective communication, handling objections, and closing deals.

 

These sessions, including role-playing exercises, are designed to equip attendees with the skills needed to excel in the real estate market.

 

The show would also allow for networking by providing opportunities to connect with other Nigerian professionals, investors, and industry experts.

 

Mr Aliyu Aliyu, CEO of Bilaad Realty, said the show would inspire participants to have a commitment to a brighter future of their country.

 

“Abuja’s growing economy guarantees property value appreciation, while our communities offer a serene and secure environment, paired with unmatched lifestyle amenities and sustainable designs.”

 

Aliyu said that investing in Nigeria’s economic growth agenda would offer substantial returns that outpace currency fluctuations and inflation.

 

He said that the event would provide insights into building and managing a profitable real estate portfolio, crucial for those planning to return to Nigeria or maintain strong ties with the country.

 

Dr Alim Abubakre, Founder of TEXEM UK, also said that the group believes in the transformative power of strategic investments.

 

He added that the free road show would be a significant platform to encourage this among participants.

 

“This programme is a unique opportunity for Nigerian professionals in the UK to gain invaluable insights into the Nigerian real estate market, foster key partnerships, and contribute to national development.

 

“By participating, Nigerian professionals can leverage cutting-edge knowledge, connect with industry leaders, and position themselves at the forefront of a dynamic market.

 

”This event is about sustainable investment and reconnecting with your roots,” Abubakre said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Razak Owolabi

General News

I’ve never been Abdulrasheed Maina’s associate, Wambai, Zazzau traditional title holder, says

 

By Taiye Agbaje

Alhaji Aminu Yakubu Wambai, a traditional title holder in Zazzau Emirate in Kaduna State,  says he is neither an associate nor a relative of Abdulrasheed Maina, the convicted former Chairman of the defunct Pension Reform Task Team (PRTT).

 

Wambai, who holds the title of Wakilin Raya Kasar Zazzau, was reacting to a report linking him to Maina, who was convicted over a N2 billion pension fraud.

 

He made the clarification in a correspondence to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

 

Wambai, who drew attention to a July 4 judgment of the Federal High Court setting aside his property from the list of those presented  by EFCC for final forfeiture, dissociated himself from any relationship with the pension convict.

 

NAN reports that Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of a Federal High Court, Abuja had ordered final forfeiture of at least 20 property linked to the ex-chairman of PRTT.

 

The EFCC had, on Oct. 22, 2019, obtained an order of interim forfeiture over 23 properties in different parts of the country, which the commission said it suspected were acquired by Maina with proceeds of unlawful activity, allegedly using family members and associates.

 

In response to the court’s interim order for people with interest in the affected properties to show cause why they should not permanently forfeit the properties to the Federal Government, some individuals applied to claim some of the properties.

 

Those who applied to claim some of the properties are: Hajia Laila Maina, Uwani Usman, Alhaji Aminu Yakubu Wambai, Haruna Mu’azu Musa and  Aliyu Abdullahi.

 

In the judgment,  a copy of which was seen on Tuesday, Justice Abdulmalik agreed with lawyer to the EFCC, Farouk Abdullah, that most of those who claimed to own the properties failed to effectively establish their claims by producing credible evidence.

 

However, Abdulmalik held that Wambai and Abdullahi succeeded in their claims in respect of the properties listed as numbers 3 and 20 in the schedule of properties attached to EFCC’s application for final forfeiture.

 

In respect of the property identified as “Flat 42C SMC Quarters, Unguwan Dosa, Kaduna, Kaduna State” claimed by Alhaji Wambai, the judge noted that the EFCC did not dispute the claim by Alhaji Wambai.

 

Justice Abdulmalik said: “It is pertinent to mention that the learned counsel for the applicant filed no response to controvert this process.

 

“He, in fact, urged this honourable court to vacate the interim order of forfeiture granted on 22nd October, 2019 against property No: 3.”

 

In respect of the property claimed by Abdullahi, identified as “Plot of C of O BO/426 beacon B5086, B5087, B5105, B5104, B5099 Cadastral zone B05 Utako, Abuja, FCT,” the judge also agreed with Abdullahi.

 

The judge said: “It suffices to mention in this instance, that the learned counsel for applicant (EFCC) informed the court that he is not opposed to the claim of Aliyu Abdullahi in respect of property No: 20.

 

“He urged the court to vacate the interim order of forfeiture granted by this honourable court in respect of the aforementioned property on 22nd October, 2019; this honourable court ordered accordingly on 8th day of May 2024.”

 

In respect of property No. 14 identified as “Plot 18 Road F on TPO 462B C of O Kd5469 Kaduna, Kaduna State,”  Abdulmalik excluded the property upon an application to that effect by the EFCC.

 

She said: “Learned counsel for applicant drew court’s attention to Property No: 14 claimed by Mr. Maina; he applied that this court expunge Property No: 14 from the schedule of properties listed in applicant’ motion on notice filed 19th November, 2019 for final forfeiture on the premise that the applicant had erroneously listed the said.

 

“Property No: 14; that same was not included in the interim order granted by this court on 22nd October, 2019.

 

“Consequently, this honourable court expunged Property No: 14 from this proceedings on 8th day of May, 2024,” the judge said.

 

Abdulmalik further said: “It is trite in law that civil cases in non-conviction forfeiture are hinged on the preponderance of evidence.

 

“Again, I hold that the respondents have failed woefully in tilting the scale of evidential weight in their favour.”

 

Abdulmalik, however, ordered the final forfeiture of 20 property listed in the schedule for failure of the claimants to show good and credible cause on the history of their legitimate earnings.

 

“In view of this grave omission on the part of the claimants to show good and credible cause on the history of their legitimate earnings, I hereby find merit in applicant’s application for final forfeiture of properties Nos: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22 and 23 set out in schedule one, attached to the order of interim forfeiture, save properties No: 3, 14 and 20. I so order,” she stated.

 

Although three property listed in the suit by the anti-graft agency were vacated by the court, it inadvertently cited Wambai and Abdullahi’s names as associates of Maina in its earlier reports.

 

But Wambai, in his July 15 letter, said he was neither Maina’s associate nor his relative.

 

“Firstly, as per attached, being a one time member of the NNPC Newsletter Editorial Board, I know the effect of what inaccurate reporting means as contained in the Ethics and values of a reporter.

 

“Secondly, I took EFCC to court over erroneous inclusion of my house No. 42c SMC Quarter, Kawo Kaduna in Addulrashid Maina’s case which I fought and won my case against EFCC as per attached ‘court order (INC/ABJ/CS/1154/2619) of 8th May, 2024, ruled by Justice J.0. Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court Abuja, who vacated the EFCC’s application.

 

“Thirdly, therefore, I have nothing to do with Abdulrashid Maina, in terms of association or relationship.

 

“As such, it will be wrong of anyone to refer to me as associate or relative of Abdulrashid Maina.

 

“Fourthly, as ruled by the judge, I claimed only my house (No. 42c SMC Quarters), therefore I have nothing to do with the 23 houses you reported as having been claimed by the associate and relatives of Abdulrashid Maina,” he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)

General News

NIHOTOUR plans training for child development

The next summer vacation training of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Abuja, is programmed to stimulate parents to understand their children’s skills and career progression, an official of the institute has said.

 

NIHOTOUR Abuja Coordinator Habiba Sani said in Abuja on Friday that the vacation summer training would also give the parents the opportunity to expand the career of their children and allow them to explore their innate skills for future development.

 

“Our training objectives are to awaken children to the opportunities inherent in the global hospitality and tourism sectors for their personal and career development.

 

“NIHOTOUR will begin a flagship summer vacation training on hospitality skills and tourism crafts for children in Abuja and the larger Federal Capital Territory areas.

 

“The training is scheduled to hold for two weeks from Aug.12.

 

“NIHOTOUR is the leading hospitality and tourism vocational training institute in Nigeria.

 

“This is the second edition of the summer training on hospitality skills and tourism crafts for kids in the FCT organised by the NIHOTOUR Abuja campus,” she said

 

Sani also said that the next summer class would be built on the huge success of last year’s edition.

 

“We are expanding the training modules to include Cookery, Pastry and Confectionery, Vegetable & Fruit Carving, Table Setting, Food Presentation, House Keeping, City Tour operation, Parks and Recreation.”

 

“The training delivery methods are hands-on and one-on-one, so that our child-friendly and experienced trainers can identify budding talents in kids and expertly guide them, through personalised coaching.

 

According to her, the summer vacation training will hold at the Abuja campus of NIHOTOUR situated at 6, Mike Akhigbe Way, Jabi District, Abuja.

 

“Participation in the training requires prior registration by parents at the Abuja campus of the institute.

 

“NIHOTOUR is a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Tourism, established by an Act of Parliament to Train, Certify and Register all personnel working in Nigeria’s hospitality, travel and tourism sectors.

 

“As the leading hospitality and tourism vocational training citadel in Nigeria, NIHOTOUR so far has 12 campuses and training centres spread across the country’s six-geopolitical zones and the FCT,” she said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kayode Olaitan

General News

Hardship: FG distributes food items to Abuja residents

By Philomina Attah

The Federal Government on Tuesday distributed 2,416 bags of various grains as palliative to vulnerable residents of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).

Speaking at the ceremony in Apo Town Hall, AMAC Chairman, Mr Christopher Maikalangu, emphasised that the provided food items were strictly for vulnerable residents across the 12 wards of the council, and should not be sold.

He said that the initiative was aimed at addressing the ongoing food crisis and provide relief in line with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the current administration.

The council chairman said the items distributed would not have been possible without the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike.

He appreciated their efforts in alleviating the hardship faced by many Nigerians through various palliative schemes, adding that the distribution of the items would be devoid of political affiliation, religious belief, and tribal background.

“It may interest you to know that, this is not a political gathering, the people you are seeing here today are residents of AMAC who are invited.

“To this end, the Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture and I, will monitor and ensure the smooth and equitable distribution of these food items.

“Strict security measures are already in place to avoid theft. You have to queue and be orderly, to receive these food items. No thuggery or criminal activity will be allowed,” he said.

Residents of AMAC during the distribution of food items by the federal government

Maikalangu said the Tinubu’s administration as well as the council placed greater attention to agriculture,

He disclosed that the council would soon commence distribution of essential agricultural inputs to farmers in the rural areas to support a successful planting season.

Residents of AMAC during the distribution of food items by the federal government.

On his part, the Supervisory Councillor in charge of Agriculture, Mr Zakari Biu,
said the items to be distributed included, 1,000 bags of rice (25kg), 500 bags of maize (50kg), 693 bags of guinea corn (50kg), 120 bags of millet (50kg), and 103 bags of grits (25kg).

He also introduced the committee members appointed by the FCTA to oversee the fair distribution of the items to the beneficiaries. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dorcas Jonah/Rotimi Ijikanmi

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