How To Tackle Insecurity In Nigeria’s National Parks – NPS Boss

October 19, 2024

The Conservator – General of the National Park Service (NPS), Dr. Ibrahim Goni, has said that collaborative efforts of relevant agencies is the panacea to tackling insecurity in the nation’s parks. He also talked about scientific method for the same purpose.
Dr. Ibrahim Goni, who spoke when a team from National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) paid him a visit in Abuja, stressed the need for the exploration of collaborative efforts between his agency and NASRDA to effectively tackle the security challenges.
According to him, the collaboration would also reduce the engagement of manpower at the national park service.
“Our plans and mandate are to secure the plants and animals in the designated national parks in the country; your agency is key due to the advantages to be explored.”
He said that NPS is essential to the conservation of the country’s national parks, saying that his agency has concluded plans to draft a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a working document to fast track the partnership.
Earlier, the Director-General of NASRDA, Dr. Matthew Adepoju, said that an institution like the National Park Service should be supported with all the necessary government apparatus.
“And that is why NASRDA believes that with technology, we can support the service; it is incredible how technology can help us do a lot.
“We have conducted some research that needs collaboration with the national park in the area of forest management, monitoring and the health condition of the vegetation which is fauna and flora and is very paramount.”
Adepoju said that NASRDA had done some researches in the area of ecotourism because tourism is one of the critical areas of national development.
He said that tourism has been neglected because the country has not taken good opportunity of the endowment that God has given it.

National Grid Collapses For Third Time In A Week, Throws Nigeria Into Darkness

Greenbarge Reporters

October 19, 2024

The national electricity grid has collapsed again today, October 19, the third time in a week.
The grid collapsed in the early hours of today, throwing most parts of Nigeria into total blackouts.
Data obtained from the Nigerian System Operator’s portal (niggrid.org), showed that the grid recorded an unprecedented zero Megawatts (MW) as of 8:16 am today. The data showed also that all 22 generation companies (GenCos) are down as at the time of this report.
This collapse marks the eighth grid disturbance in 2024, adding to challenges that have long plagued Nigeria’s power sector.
Despite the extensive effects of the blackout, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is yet to confirm the incident as at the time of this report, leaving the public and key stakeholders without information on the cause or resolution of the latest crisis.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu had said last week that the grid collapses were almost inevitable in Nigeria given the deplorable state of the country’s power infrastructure.
According to him, having multiple power grids in each region and state would ensure stability.
He said that the decentralisation of the power sector would help the plan to build grids in each region, saying that this was made possible by the Electricity Act signed by President Bola Tinubu in 2023.
“This Electricity Act has decentralised power. It has enabled all the subnational governments, the state government and the local government, to be able to participate in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. We all rely on a single national grid today; if there is a disturbance of the national grid, it affects all 36 states. It shouldn’t be like that. ‘This will enable us to start moving gradually towards having regional groups and possibly having state grids.”
Source: The Eagle Online.

Jigawa Commissioner Arrested Over Alleged Affair With Married Woman In Uncompleted Building

Greenbarge Reporters

October 18, 2024

Jigawa State Commissioner for Special Duties, Auwal Danladi Sankara, has been arrested over alleged affair with a married woman in an uncompleted building in Kano city.
The Director General of Hisbah Board, Abba Sufi, who announced the arrest today, October 18 in Kano, said that the arrest followed intelligence tracking prompted by complaints from the woman’s brother-in-law, Nasiru Bulama.
Bulama had accused Sankara of engaging in an illicit relationship with his wife, Tasleem Baba Nabegu, a mother of two children.
Sufi said that Bulama’s complaints were submitted to both the Kano State Police Command and the Department of State Services (DSS).
“We have been tracking him based on the reports we received.”
The Hisbah boss said that Sankara is also facing multiple charges, including operating illicit drug centers disguised as hotels.
The commissioner is set to appear in court on Monday to address these allegations.
Source Concord Media

I’ve Constructed Over 150 Kilometers Of Roads In Osun, Gov Adeleke Tells Works Minister

Greenbarge Reporters

October 18, 2024

Governor Ademola Adeleke has said that since his assumption of office, he has constructed over 150 kilometers of roads, including the 1.5 kilometers per local governments in Osun state.
Governor Adeleke spoke today, October 18, when he paid a working visit to the Minister of Works, Dave Umahia in Abuja.
He briefed the minister on the state of federal and state roads in the state even as he sought further federal interventions.
He told the minister about his administration’s multi- billion naira projects which include flyovers, dualisation of roads and ongoing construction of several major roads across the state.
The governor commended the Minister for his bold approach in the road sector, even as he spoke about some federal roads that his administration has worked on.
He therefore sought favorable rapport between the state and the federal government on the road sector.
This was even as the Minister assured him of support and partnership in the management of federal road corridors across Osun.
He acknowledged the proactive approach of the Governor to the road sector.

First Igbo Professor In Arabic Appointed Imam Of National Mosque, Abuja

Greenbarge Reporters

October 18, 2024

The first Igbo man to become a professor in Arabic, Ilyasu Usman, has been appointed as the Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.
Professor Usman joined the ranks of the three existing Imams of the National Mosque.
He led the Jum’at prayer today, October 18, after delivering a powerful sermon (Khutbah).
The new Imam joins two other Imams, Professor Ibrahim Makari and Professor Muhammad Kabir, in the rotational conduct of the Jum’at and daily congregational prayers as well as the fourth Imam, Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura from the Southwest Nigeria, that had not been leading prayers for a long time because he is indisposed.
With the newly appointed of Imam from South East, the 25,000-capacity National Mosque of Nigeria, built in 1984 and officially opened to the public in 1991 now have three active Imams in addition to the Murshid, Professor Shehu Ahmad Sai’d Galadanci, who is the overall head, spiritual guide or general administrator.
Meanwhile, Igbo Muslims, under the umbrella of South East Muslims Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON), have prayed to Allah to grant Professor Usman the wisdom and strength to discharge the sacred duty.
“We the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON), extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ilyasu Usman on your recent appointment as an Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.
“This prestigious role is not only a testament to your unwavering dedication and scholarly excellence but also a divine blessing and responsibility to lead the Ummah in worship and service to Allah.
“We pray that Allah (SWT) grants you the wisdom, strength, and steadfastness to discharge this sacred duty with diligence, integrity, and humility. May your leadership inspire unity, peace, and piety.
“We also attest to the inclusiveness of the leadership of the National Mosque and Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President General, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar,” the statement read.
“Furthermore, we pray that this achievement serves as an uplift for the Igbo Muslim community in Nigeria, showcasing their contributions and dedications to Islam and the Ummah at large,” the group said, in a statement signed by its Ag. National Chairman, Dr. Suleiman Afikpo and National Executive Secretary, Ustaz Sirajuddeen Ugwu.
Source: DAILY TRUST.

Buhari To Gowon At 90: Your Visionary Leadership Has Kept Nigeria One

Greenbarge Reporters

October 18, 2024

Immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari has praised the visionary leadership of the former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, as he marks his 90th birthday.
Buhari observed that such visionary leadership has kept Nigeria one, even as he said that Gowon had always been dedicated to Nigeria’s unity and progress.
In a birthday message, issued by Malam Garba Shehu, his spokesperson while in office, President Buhari said that the former military ruler’s far-sighted leadership and commitment to the nation’s unity and future development is praiseworthy.
“We honor his invaluable contributions to our nation’s continued existence as one, and the progress that has come with that.
“Today we pay a humble tribute a distinguished statesman and a soldier, who had all the qualities of a successful army commander.”
Buhari said that both the old and the younger generation of Nigerians would continue to be proud of General Gowon and the officers and men he led, for their courage and gallantry in preserving the unity and territorial integrity of the nation.
“I pay homage to all those who served and laid their lives for the country. Gowon and the team he led will continue to inspire the young generations and the country for a long time.”
He expressed his appreciation for the resolute dedication of the former Head of State as he continues to offer service to the nation and its people, including “the admirable role he plays in leading his pet project ‘Nigeria Prays.’”

Battle Against Deforestation: Gov Adeleke Plans One Million Trees In Osun

Greenbarge Reporters

October 17, 2024

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has designed a plan for a one million trees to be planted as a measure to control deforestation in the state.
The governor, who spoke in his office yesterday, October 16, said that the programme would be kick-started with the planting of 100,000 trees in the first phase. The Governor was honoured by his guests, leaders of the Forestry Council of Nigeria with the title of “Climate Change Ambassador.”
Governor Adeleke said at the meeting with the leaders that the first phase of the tree planting session would be followed by a wider programme targeting one million tree planting agenda.
He said that approval had also been given for the planting of the seedlings raised to mitigate the adverse effect of climate change that is ravaging the globe, assuring that his government is on top of the situation.
“I must state that what your association stands for as presented by the leadership is in agreement with my policy thrust on climate change
“This administration is not paying lip service to the issue of afforestation, hence my approval to raise one million seedlings of exotic and indigenous trees, which we will start with one hundred thousand in the first phase.
“It will interest you to know that approval has equally been given to the planting of the seedlings raised to mitigate the adverse effect of climate change which is ravaging the globe, but here in Osun State, I make bold to say we are on top of the situation.
“Since the activities of your association complement the functionality of the Climate Change Agenda of this administration, you can be sure of my total support of your dream and the success of your annual conference which will be memorable and positively impactful.”
Earlier, Dr Tajudeen Abiodun Afolabi, President, Forestry Council of Nigeria acknowledged Governor Adeleke’s passion for Climate Change, which was why the association is bringing its next conference to Osun.
“When I came in here I saw that you have done very well in protecting the environment. You have done very well in environmental sustainability of the state and by extension in Nigeria in general.
“Your passion for Climate Change made us decide to come and host our event in Osun.
“We will bring experts and professionals in Nigeria and beyond to come and celebrate you, celebrate your passion for Climate Change.
“We will be happy to work with you. We will be happy to project you to the world that this is an ambassador of Climate Change in Osun state and in Nigeria in general.”

Don’t Divert Funds, Kogi Gov, Ododo, Warns Contractors As He Flags Off 20 Km Rural Road

Greenbarge Reporters

October 16, 2024

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has made it clear that he would not take it kindly with contractors handling projects in the state who engage in the diversion of funds for whatever excuses.
The warning was sounded today, October 16, when he flagged off the construction of the 20KM Obajana-Uro-Aku rural road linking parts of Lokoja and Adavi local government areas.
The project is part of interventions by the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) supported by the World Bank Group and other stakeholders in the agricultural development value chain. It is the first phase of the over 65KM network of rural roads in the state, intended to create access to farms, farming communities and markets to ensure food security in the state.
Governor Ododo, at the Flag-off ceremony in Apata near Obajana, emphasized the pivotal role of rural roads in the development agenda of his administration.
He said that the rural roads will not only enhance transportation but also serve as catalyst for rural economic growth and food security in the state.
According to him, the roads will provide access and connectivity to farmers and traders as part of his administration’s broader strategy to enhance rural development and bring governance closer to people in local communities.
He called on the benefiting communities to take ownership of the project, warning the contractors handling the project not to divert project funds.
He asked them to demonstrate high level of integrity and professionalism in project delivery.
This was even as the State Commissioner for Rural and Energy Development, Engineer Abdulmutalib Mohammed said that the project is meant to benefit farmers, by reducing the cost of transportation and accessibility for both farmers and traders in the state.
The National Co-ordinator of RAAMP, Engineer Aminu Bodinga represented by Mrs. Joy Amadi, commended Governor Ododo for his unwavering commitment to rural development which she said would enhance connectivity and access to markets, social services and opportunities that are previously out of reach for rural dwellers.
The State Coordinator of the project, Sheidu Obansa said that the network of rural roads will expose the communities to opportunities and promote agricultural development in the state.
Speaking, the Olu of Oworo, Muhammed Adoga Baiyerohi commended Governor Ododo on the road project, saying that the project will enhance agricultural development and reduce vehicular traffic along Obajana road.
Other traditional rulers who spoke at the occasion, commended Governor Ododo for the initiative to help rural dwellers who are mostly farmers and traders in the state.

Wike Beckons Investors In Various Sectors To Abuja, But Insists On Complying With Laws

Greenbarge Reporters

October 16, 2024

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has invited investors in various sectors, including real estate, agro-economy, tourism, mining and others to move to Abuja, but insisted that investors of any category must follow the laws.
The Minister, who spoke today, October 16, at the maiden edition of the Abuja Business and Investment Summit organized by the Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL), stressed the importance of the investors exploring the myriad of possibilities in these sectors.
He said that the FCT’s strategic location and growing population have created fertile ground for investments across its various business and investment sectors, adding that the Administration has also undertaken significant measures to create an enabling environment for local and foreign investors to thrive.
According to Wike, there are plans to commence nine major infrastructure projects in the FCT, and that the provision of road infrastructure and transportation networks have also been prioritized to ensure seamless connectivity within the territory.
He said that the Administration has made considerable strides in enhancing security in collaboration with security agencies to ensure a secure environment for businesses to flourish.
He said that processes have been streamlined to make it easier for investors to set up their operations.
“I invite you to explore the various investment opportunities in the FCT. Whether you are interested in real estate development, technology incubation, or agrobusiness, there is a place for you here.”
On request that businesses in the informal sector should be allowed unhindered activities, the minister insisted that development and business activities in the FCT must follow the rules and regulations provided by the law.
“No city can grow without planning. The mere fact that you migrate from the rural area into the city or where you want to have something to do does not mean that we will jettison the rules and regulations.
“So, when you see bulldozers coming, it’s to comply with the rules and regulations. Some of these settlements you are talking about are the shanties. You can’t build houses without development plans. Nobody does that.
“Sometimes, criminals will take advantage and take over this. For our survival, nobody can survive without obeying the law.”
In his keynote address, the executive Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, commended the FCT Administration for organizing the investment initiative.
He said that the summit was in line with the president’s Renewed Hope Agenda and indicated the direction in which the country is headed.
Professor Soludo, however, regretted that the country is “punching below its weight” in attracting foreign direct investments and called for improvement in business facilitation strategies to encourage sustainable investments.
Professor Soludo observed that the flow of investment funds and portfolios is shifting to emerging markets, saying that Nigeria must reposition itself to attract these investment flows.
He added that Nigeria needs to intentionally nurture domestic capital and promote national champions who will drive sustainable economic investments, even as he called for the patronage of locally produced goods.
Professor Soludo emphasized the need for investment in quality education, particularly technical and vocational training, to unleash young people’s potential. He called for strategic interventions to create job opportunities for the teeming populace and derisk investments in the country.
“If we don’t give our youth the tools to participate in tomorrow’s economy, they will become a liability. The rich will not sleep peacefully if the poor are restless.”
Earlier, the GMD, AICL, Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, said that the Abuja Business and Investment Summit aimed to promote investments in the FCT and provide a platform for networking among local and international investors.
She expressed confidence that discussions during the summit will inspire participants to think bigger and push the boundaries of what is possible in business and investment.

With Tinubu And Shettima Out Of Nigeria, Presidency Insists There’s No Leadership Vacuum

Greenbarge Reporters

October 16, 2024

The presidency has assuaged the fear expressed in certain quarters over the leadership vacuum created by the absence of both President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima from the country.
While President Tinubu is on a two week vacation since October 3 and had traveled out of the country, Vice President Shettima too, left Nigeria for Sweden today , October 16, on an official visit.
Reacting to what he called “enquiries by journalists as to who is in charge of our country as the President and Vice President are out of the country,” the Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga said that despite that the two leaders are not in the country, they “are fully engaged with the nation’s affairs.
“There is no leadership vacuum in the country.”
According to Onanuga, the nation’s Constitution does not explicitly require the physical presence of either the president or the vice president in the country at all times to fulfil their duties.
He said that since President Tinubu left the country on 3 October, he has been busy answering phones and issuing directives on matters of state.
“He will soon return to the country before the vacation officially expires.”
He stressed that all state organs are functioning as usual, adding that the Senate President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ministers and Service Chiefs are all in their respective positions, ensuring the smooth operation of the government.
“We had a similar situation in 2022 when former President Buhari and former Vice President Osinbajo were found to be simultaneously out of the country. President Buhari attended UNGA 77, while Osinbajo participated in the burial of Queen Elizabeth ll.
“We have also experienced it during this administration. Between late April and early May this year, while President Tinubu was in London, after visiting the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia, where he attended the World Economic Forum, Vice President Shettima left Nigeria, first of all for Nairobi to attend the International Development Association (IDA21) Heads of State Summit. “After returning, he left for Dallas, Texas, to attend the US-Africa Business Summit organised by the Corporate Council on Africa. President Tinubu returned home on 8 May.”
Onanuga recalled that during such time, the government’s machinery did not halt.

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