President Bola Tinubu has warned the organised labour in Nigeria: the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to refrain from disruptive actions against his government. “Some labour unions should understand that no matter how we cling to our freedom and rights, to call for strikes within the first nine months of a new administration is unacceptable.” President Tinubu, who spoke in Lagos Nigeria, today, February 29, advised the leadership of the labour unions interested in politics to wait for 2027 general elections. “If you want to directly participate in the electoral process, wait until 2027, if not, maintain the peace.” He made it clear that labour “is not the only voice of Nigeria,” even as he called on Nigerians to embrace change and work towards national progress. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating corruption and evolve good governance.
Saudi Arabia’s football governing body has suspended Cristiano Ronaldo for one game over a gesture he made on the pitch last weekend that was judged “provocative.” A video emerged after his side’s 3-2 win against Al-Shabab, showing Ronaldo making a repeated thrusting gesture towards his groin in response to crowds who were taunting him by chanting the name of his long time rival, Lionel Messi. The Disciplinary and Ethics Committee of the Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) committee announced the ban on social media early today morning, February 29, local time. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star will also have to pay a fine of 20,000 Saudi Riyals ($5,333) to Al-Shabab to cover the costs of the club filing the complaint, and half of that amount to the federation. Although television cameras did not record the incident, former players and commentators in Saudi Arabia heavily criticized Ronaldo’s actions after he scored a penalty in the first half of the game. According to reports in the Saudi Arabian media, the 39-year-old Ronaldo told the committee that the gesture was one of victory and common in Europe. Ronaldo, who moved to the Riyadh-based club in December 2022, has a league-leading 22 goals. He scored the opener against Al Shabab, a first-half penalty. Al Nassr is also in the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League, a tournament it has never won. Source: Persecond news.
The recent statements credited to the Minister for Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, during an engagement with State Commissioners for Women Affairs, are deeply concerning, especially in the light of the prevalence of gender-based violence in our society. While promoting peace in the home is important, the suggestion that women should avoid confrontation with their spouses as a means to prevent violence, overlooks the complexity of the issue. Advising women to “keep your mouth shut” and “act like a fool” in response to potential abuse does not address the root causes of violence and can further perpetuate damaging stereotypes. It is important to address gender-based violence by promoting respect, equality and mutual understanding in relationships. Many victims of gender-based violence have been known to be submissive and quiet spouses, yet ended up being beaten up and even killed. This underscores the fact that violence is often a result of the abuser’s behavior and not the fault of the victim. It is important to highlight that Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and domestic violence have been on the increase, and we must never support a narrative that a survivor of gender-based violence must have caused it. Such narratives only serve to blame the victim and further perpetuate harmful prejudices. I hold conservative views shaped by my Christian faith and culture as a Yoruba man about gender roles. It is, however, important to note that the Bible, taken in context, never provided for the subjugation nor abuse of women, nor does our culture undermine the place of honour and value of women in our society. Again, the importance of mutual respect and understanding in a marriage cannot be over-emphasised. It must however, not be used as an excuse for violence or abuse. I urge the Minister and all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and action to address gender-based violence, encourage victims to speak out, and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals. In this regard, I welcome other suggestions of the Minister, especially on the need to expedite the administration of justice in cases of GBV, and democratizing access to legal aid and support. NOTE: This statement is made in my capacity as a Member of the House of Representatives, in line with a pact with my people to promote gender equality as well as the protection of women and girls. Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr. Ekiti North 1 (Ikole/Oye), wrote in this piece from Abuja.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has called for collaboration among upstream operators, especially independent producers, to find solutions to the challenges hindering the effective development of divested assets in the nation’s oil and gas industry. The company’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, at a panel session in the ongoing 2024 Nigerian International Energy Summit (NIES 2024), held today, February 29, in Abuja, said that past experiences with divestments and how the assets were operated have left much to be desired as most of them experienced a drop in production rather than growth. Speaking on the theme: “Innovation, Collaboration, and Resilience: Empowering Independent Producers in the Dynamic Energy Era,” Eyesan said: “in the industry, if you want to measure success, there are some basic indicators that you utilise – production growth, reserves growth, and asset integrity. If I were to evaluate prior investment initiatives and scale the actors using these indices, I will be untrue to myself if I say everybody has done well. Yes, we acquired the assets; but today, we are worse off in terms of production than we were when we did the acquisition.” The Executive Vice President acknowledged however, that there were some success stories in the operations of the independent producers. She identified some of the challenges to include insecurity, lack of finance, and lack of technological capacity, stressing that with collaboration among industry players, the challenges could be surmounted. “Collaboration cannot be overemphasized. Somebody said we should be in a state of emergency, and I totally agree with that. It’s not by sitting here and talking about the challenges, I think we should have a war room where we raise the issues and set out concrete plans to resolve them rather than wait for stakeholders individually to take them on. We need collaboration, collaboration, and collaboration.” The panel session had key players in the sector such as the Chief Executive Officer of Aradel Holdings, Adegbite Falade; Managing Director of SNEPCo, Mrs. Elohor Aiboni; Managing Director of First E & P Development Company, Demola Adeyemi-Bero; and Chief Executive Officer, TotalEnergies, Matthieu Bouyer. Others on the panel were: the Chief Executive Officer, ExxonMobil Nigeria, Shane Harris; Chief Operating Officer, Oando Energy Resources, Dr Ainojie Alex Irune; and Director, Joint Venture, Chevron Nigeria, Cosmas Iwueze.
Fidelity Bank palliatives have thrown hungry residents of Chibiri community in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into confusion and more hunger. In the midst of distributing the palliatives today, February 29, the management staff of the bank had to flee the venue to avoid being lynched by the angry residents when it became obvious that some group of people have hijacked the package . The package is made up of two kilogramme of rice, one kilogramme of garri and four pieces of indomie. Our reporter who was at the venue, said that the bank management staff abruptly shut the van in which the items were stored from where they were being distributed and took to their heels when those who call themselves indigenes clashed with none indigenes over the mode of distribution. The venue was said to have become rowdy and charged when only the indigenes were being called to receive the package, while none indigenes were ignored. Information reaching us said that names of all the residents of the community have earlier been compiled in the palace of the community chief, with the intention that they would all benefit from the items. However, trouble started when, at the venue, it was only the indigenes that were being called for nearly two hours. ”Why would they invite us to come and suffer in this hot sun if they would not give us the package,” one of the none indigenes complained. The leader of the Fidelity bank team, a woman, who refused to give her name, had earlier told our reporter that the bank has made it a policy to participate in providing palliatives to poor Nigerians in various communities across the country. The manager, who, in the heat of disagreement between the indigenes and none indigenes, drove off out of the venue in her Jeep with other staff of the bank, said that the palliatives are part of the efforts of the bank to support the government.
A female student of the Abubakar Siddiq Islamiyyah and 200 Level Botany Student at the Gombe State University in Nigeria, Hajara Ibrahim, has won International Quranic Recitation Competition in far away Jordan. Young Hajara, an Ebira speaking girl from Eika ohizenyi in Kogi State Central Senatorial Area, was selected to represent Nigeria. Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper and hardcopy magazine said that she emerged the overall winner among other contestants from 39 countries in the 60 Hizb with Tajwid category at the 18th Edition of the Hashemite Jordan International Qur’anic Competition for Female.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to fly to the State of Qatar from Lagos State tomorrow, February 29. A statement today, February 28, by the President’s spokesman, Ajuri Ngelare said that Tinubu will spend two-day talking to the leadership of that country towards strengthening cooperation between the two. He said that areas to be concentrated on including security, cultural exchange and economic development. President Tinubu will also witness the signing of several agreements focused on boosting Nigeria’s real sector and creating value-additive investments across the fields of trade, education, culture, solid minerals, digital economy, agriculture, and gas, as well as fostering cooperation on counter-terrorism. The President will also participate in a business and investment forum that will bring together top-level executives in both the private and public sectors of Nigeria and Qatar to advance cross-sectoral opportunities for mutually beneficial growth and development. Tinubu, who is formally invited by the Emir of the State of Qatar, His Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, will be accompanied on the trip by senior government officials for the signing of agreements.
This week in Nairobi, Kenya, the world’s preeminent forum on environmental issues – the UN Environment Assembly is holding its sixth biennial meeting to set the global environmental agenda. It is expected to be attended by over 4,000 participants from 193 member states, as well as representatives from international organizations, private sector, academia and media. Its focus is the triple planetary crisis of climate change, pollution, biodiversity loss and land degradation. OCP, a prominent NGO, will play an outstanding role at the conference in championing the crucial role of soil health in addressing these challenges at the same time as feeding the world’s growing population. On the theme: “Cultivating Soil Health: Africa’s Pillar of Resilience in the Triple Planetary Crisis,” OCP will co-organize an official side event with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco to Kenya. Morocco holds the critical role of Chairing the conference, demonstrating the global leadership of Morocco and OCP on these vital issues. The side event will bring together key stakeholders to strategize on effective, inclusive and sustainable solutions to the world’s environmental challenges with a particular focus on agriculture and soil health in Africa. The discussion will prove to be an invaluable opportunity for dialogue and collaboration. Among the distinguished speakers at the event are senior representatives from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, the UN Environment Programme, and the Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organisation, as well as from OCP itself. More widely, experts from OCP Group have also been engaging actively in some of the many other events taking place around the main conference, notably through contributions by OCP’s Chief Innovation Officer, Dr. Leonardus Vergutz and Karimi Thuranira, OCP Kenya’s Country Manager. OCP is seizing these exceptional opportunities to communicate to the world’s policy-makers the key lessons it has learned from its more than 100 years of experience and innovation as the world’s leading phosphate miner and soil health and plant nutrition solutions company. OCP is fostering accelerated action, built on collaborative partnerships between all stakeholders – including, most fundamentally, the smallholder farmers of Africa – to revitalize soil health, rehabilitate degraded lands and ecosystems, combat climate change, boost rural incomes and development, and ensure food security for future generations. OCP has a compelling story to tell, one that is finding resonance amongst the disparate audiences in Nairobi, offering tried and tested, practical solutions to global challenges. OCP’s messages have particular credibility and authenticity since they are based on its own outstanding record and ambitious program of sustainability: 100% self-sufficient in renewable water this year, renewable energy by 2027, green ammonia by 2032 and carbon neutral by 2040. And they draw from its extraordinary investment in research and innovation, in the analysis of 50 million hectares of soils across Africa, the development of over 40 fertilization formulas customized to meet the specific needs of those soils, the training of over 270,000 farmers in sustainable agronomic practices to maximize their yields at the same time as conserving the environment, and facilitating the finance and ecosystems to enable farmers to access essential inputs and get their produce to market. OCP is making a significant impact on the global stage, leveraging its invaluable experience to build the international partnerships and policies that are necessary to achieve the just agricultural transition in Africa, that will transform it into an agricultural powerhouse, feeding not only itself but the world, while simultaneously combatting climate change and preserving the environment.
“I requested (for) the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility. Nigeria will survive the current economic challenges. There is light at the end of the tunnel.” These were the words of President Bola Tinubu, when he addressed Afenifere leaders at the residence of Pa Reuben Fasoranti in Akure, Ondo State, today, February 28. He stressed that he has come to ensure that Nigeria is reformed for greater efficiency with a particular emphasis inculcating fairness and equity in all aspects of the national life. He emphasized his commitment to leading Nigeria towards economic and social prosperity. ”We are meeting our obligations to the international community. To lenders, we have not defaulted, and we are not going to default. We are navigating the twists and bends on the road to Nigeria’s prosperity,” the President affirmed. President Tinubu said that his task will be to ensure fiscal and true federalism as well as the broad-based manifestation of the philosophy of “what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.” He acknowledged the understanding and support of all Nigerians in the face of the tough but temporary economic conditions, assuring them that their patience and perseverance will not be fruitless. “The economic challenges we have endured since assuming office are not new to me. “As the former governor of Lagos State, I faced similar calls for my resignation. But, through perseverance, Lagos emerged as the fifth largest economy in the entire continent of Africa. We must manage this moment with wisdom and grow Nigeria responsibly. “I campaigned for this office to serve Nigeria’s interests, and I was elected. Some said I would not last in the tribunal and came up with all sorts of predictions, but even when in court, I remained focused. “We cannot allow Nigeria’s economy to be exploited. We cannot abandon our economy to marauders. I am determined to re-engineer our finances and curb selfish interests permanently,” he stated. Speaking on behalf of Afenifere, Pa Olu Falae, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), who read the address of Pa Fasoranti, commended President Tinubu for his commitment to Nigeria’s progress and expressed support for his administration’s efforts. “You have kept your word to return to this place where we all prayed for you, and this shows that you are a man of your word.” Pa Fasoranti asked President Tinubu to be fair and courageous, declaring that such traits were the hallmark of the Afenifere family. “Today, you are carrying our flag. We are noted for integrity, competence, fairness, and courage. Your performance so far has shown that you understand the full gravity of your mandate, which is to show the Nigerian people that a good government is possible.”
Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has called on players in the Nigerian energy industry to draw insights from NLNG’s ongoing integration of digital technologies to improve operational efficiency, reduce emissions, increase revenue and remain competitive. During a panel discussion, themed: “Digital Transformation and Sustainable Energy Solutions in Upstream and Downstream Sectors” at the 7th Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), NLNG’s Deputy Managing Director, Olakunle Osobu, emphasised the pivotal role of digital technologies and data analytics in enhancing efficiency, productivity, safety standards and environmental sustainability across the energy value chain. Highlighting the significance of nurturing young talent and embracing digital tools, Mr. Osobu underscored their criticality in streamlining processes, fostering innovation, and addressing sustainability challenges within the evolving energy landscape. He said that leveraging digital solutions enables the industry to unlock unprecedented career opportunities while tackling resilience and sustainability imperatives. Osobu lauded NLNG’s pioneering role in leveraging digital technology within the LNG sector. He cited examples such as the Smart Mobile Worker programme, which utilises smart helmets and tablets for remote support, enabling swift repairs, reducing mobilisation costs, and enhancing safety protocols. He also highlighted NLNG’s digital twin technology that replicates plant operations using real-time data for remote planning and improved safety measures without necessitating physical site visits. These initiatives, he said, collectively bolster NLNG’s competitive edge by enhancing operational efficiency, environmental stewardship, workforce safety, and financial performance. Osobu reiterated NLNG’s commitment to achieving its net-zero emissions target by 2040 through strategic deployment of digital solutions. Stressing the crucial role of comprehensive training programmes in maximising the benefits of digital transformation, even as he noted the importance of upskilling employees to leverage AI, machine learning, and other digital tools while enhancing cybersecurity awareness to mitigate evolving cyber threats stemming from increased digitalisation. He said that continuous learning through training fosters innovation, introduces cutting-edge technologies, and sustains competitiveness within the industry. Osobu was part of a panel session featuring industry leaders on Day 1 of 2024 NIES, which followed the summit’s inauguration by President Bola Tinubu (GCFR), who was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi.
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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has called for collaboration among upstream operators, especially independent producers, to find solutions to the challenges hindering the effective development of divested assets in the nation’s oil and gas industry.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to fly to the State of Qatar from Lagos State tomorrow, February 29.
Acting Like Fools Cannot Stop Gender Abuse, By Akin Rotimi, Jr.
The recent statements credited to the Minister for Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, during an engagement with State Commissioners for Women Affairs, are deeply concerning, especially in the light of the prevalence of gender-based violence in our society.
While promoting peace in the home is important, the suggestion that women should avoid confrontation with their spouses as a means to prevent violence, overlooks the complexity of the issue.
Advising women to “keep your mouth shut” and “act like a fool” in response to potential abuse does not address the root causes of violence and can further perpetuate damaging stereotypes. It is important to address gender-based violence by promoting respect, equality and mutual understanding in relationships.
Many victims of gender-based violence have been known to be submissive and quiet spouses, yet ended up being beaten up and even killed. This underscores the fact that violence is often a result of the abuser’s behavior and not the fault of the victim.
It is important to highlight that Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and domestic violence have been on the increase, and we must never support a narrative that a survivor of gender-based violence must have caused it. Such narratives only serve to blame the victim and further perpetuate harmful prejudices.
I hold conservative views shaped by my Christian faith and culture as a Yoruba man about gender roles. It is, however, important to note that the Bible, taken in context, never provided for the subjugation nor abuse of women, nor does our culture undermine the place of honour and value of women in our society. Again, the importance of mutual respect and understanding in a marriage cannot be over-emphasised. It must however, not be used as an excuse for violence or abuse.
I urge the Minister and all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and action to address gender-based violence, encourage victims to speak out, and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals.
In this regard, I welcome other suggestions of the Minister, especially on the need to expedite the administration of justice in cases of GBV, and democratizing access to legal aid and support.
NOTE: This statement is made in my capacity as a Member of the House of Representatives, in line with a pact with my people to promote gender equality as well as the protection of women and girls.
Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.
Ekiti North 1 (Ikole/Oye), wrote in this piece from Abuja.
February 29, 2024