Christmas: Osun Issues N2.9 Billion Bonds To Pay Pensioners, Prioritizes Workers’ Welfare

December 26, 2023

Osun State government has issued N2.9 billion bonds to pay pensioners in the state over the weekend.
The State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, who announced this in his Christmas message to the people of the State, said: “in the spirit of the season, Osun State Government under my leadership continues to prioritize the welfare of the people by paying owed half salary, the regular salary, and in a few days to come, the wage award agreed with labour leaders will be paid to give the needed fund to our workers and also stimulate the economy of the state.”
According to the governor, whose idea was issued today, December 26, through a statement by his spokesman, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Bonds were issued to put a smile on the faces of the senior citizens.
He said that the idea too is to ensure that the pensioners can experience joyous celebrations of Christmas and New Year.
Governor Adeleke wished for hitch-free celebrations and prosperous 2024, even as he assured the people of sustained commitment to moving the state forward.
He said that the ongoing projects and new ones to broaden the economic prospect of the state and improve the situation of the people will receive priority next year.
He asked the people of the state to draw from the spiritual import of the celebration by sharing love and fostering harmony in communities.
Governor Adeleke described Christmas as a moment of reflection on the blessing that the birth of Jesus Christ symbolizes for humanity and charged the people, especially Christians, to embrace the spirit of compassion and kindness that the season reflects.
He wanted the people to appreciate the strength and prospects of unity in driving the needed progress for the state.
“We should use the season to renew bonds, lend helping hands and spread love without boundaries.
“I extend my heartfelt wishes to Christian faithful as we mark this year’s Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ, as we have come to realize, is the most profound message on the power of love and how it can save.
“As families gather to celebrate the season, I offer my sincere goodwill and urge them to look beyond the merriment of the celebration by using the occasion to spread love through giving and kindness.
“At a time like this, we need to look after each other and ensure that those with one need or the other are supported in our little ways. We are brothers and sisters irrespective of colour, tongues and faith, and so, we should explore the strength that unity and collectiveness offers.”

Tinubu Has One Year As President To Earn My Respect Or Condemnation – Soyinka

Greenbarge Reporters

December 25, 2023

Noble laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka has said that it would take him one year to assess the performances of President Bola Tinubu and make them public.
Professor Soyinka, who visited the President in Lagos where he observed the Christmas break, said that it has been his personal policy to reserve his comments about new President and his administration for one-year to make up for lost grounds.
“Well, you know, something you may have noticed about me is that most heads of state, when they take office, I always leave them alone for about the first year…because they need time.
“I know when they come in, they don’t start from ground zero. They often start even lower than ground zero and they have to make up.
“So, I’m adopting the same principle this time. When you see me next year, ask the same question again and listen to my answer.”
Professor Soyinka spoke about how he told Tinubu the last time they met not to run for presidency.
“I came here with a seven-point agenda. And we had a very thorough discussion on those items.”
“Actually, it’s an embarrassing visit because when I visited him the last time, it was to try and persuade him not to run for office. I told Atiku (Abubakar) and himself to please leave the ground so young people could run. That’s the last time we met about five years ago.
“So I came to see how he was doing after ignoring my advice. I came to see how both he and his wife were weathering Nigeria, and to wish them a happy Christmas.”

House Of Reps Suggests Values To Guide All Nigerians

Greenbarge Reporters

December 25, 2023

The House of Representatives has suggested some values that should guide the lives of Nigerians towards the attainment of greatness.
Such values, in a statement today, December 25 by the House Spokesman /Chairman, House Committee on Media & Public Affairs, Rep Akin Rotimi Jr. to mark Christmas, can be found in Jesus.
“Annually, the celebration of Christmas offers an opportunity to reflect on the spirit of love, selflessness and hope as embodied in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
“Thus, these values remain assets that we must continue to uphold as a people; irrespective of political, religious, or regional differences in our pursuit of greater progress and development.
The House noted with satisfaction, various efforts by Members in this season, to extend goodwill to millions of their constituents “in these difficult times.”
It called on Nigerians across all walks of life to spread love and joy this season.
The House stressed: “as the “People’s House,” we remain steadfast in our commitment to being service-focused, responsive, result-oriented, and effective in our representative functions in line with our Eight-point Legislative Agenda.
“In this season and beyond, may our thoughts and actions be guided by a sense of compassion and generosity, and may peace pervade our land.”

Akpabio Celebrates APC’s Chairman, Ganduje At 74

Greenbarge Reporters

December 25, 2023

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has described the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as a great grassroot mobilizer.
Akpabio, in a congratulatory message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh and addressed to Ganduje as he celebrates 74th birthday, said that the celebrant is also “a stabilizer, astute politician and an unrepentant progressive.”
The Senate President noted that Ganduje has been able to restore peace and sanity in the party in a few months of his leadership, praising him for his ingenuity in mobilizing people and instilling a sense of belonging to all party men.
He said since Ganduje ascended the seat of national chairman, “The hitherto rancorous atmosphere at the headquarters and in most state chapters of the party have been doused and sanity is gradually returning to the party.
“I wish to heartily join other well-wishers, business and political associates, family members and friends in celebrating a great mobiliser, an astute politician, an unrepentant progressive and a stabilizer; my chairman, His Excellency, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the National Chairman of the biggest political party in Africa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in celebrating him on his 74th birthday.
“It is my prayer that the Almighty God will bless you with many more years of healthy and productive living, so that our upcoming leaders will savour the wisdom and indelible legacies you have etched on the sands of history in every position you occupied since you emerged on the political scene in 1979.
“Mr. Chairman, your enviable contributions in driving and sustaining our current democratic experiment are never in doubt. We cherish your vision and the drive to sustain the successes recorded by our great party and your unshakable belief in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
The Senate President expressed confidence in the ability of Dr. Ganduje to turn around the fortunes of the APC and help President Tinubu in restoring the faith of Nigerians in Project Nigeria through the provision of purposeful and development-induced leadership that would once again put smiles on the faces of average Nigerians.

Don’t Give Up On Tinubu, Senate President, Akpabio Begs Nigerians

Greenbarge Reporters

December 24, 2023

President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has appealed to Nigerians not to give up on President Bola Tinubu as he works to reform the country.
Akpabio, in a Christmas message, issued today, December 24 by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, called on Nigerians and Christians in particular, to “pray and be hopeful because with the birth of Jesus Christ, who is our symbol of hope, love and redemption, Nigeria will also overcome its current challenges.
“I am confident that with your prayers and support, the current administration will wipe away our tears in the no distant time.”
Senator Akpabio encouraged Nigerians to be steadfast and hopeful, regardless of the hard times citizens are experiencing.
He expressed optimism that, the pains Nigerians are going through, occasioned by series of socio-economic upheavals shall manifest in positive outcomes through the visionary development architecture of the current national leadership in the country.
Akpabio said that Christmas calls for deep reflection on the teachings of Jesus Christ, which were anchored on love for neighbour, peaceful coexistence and loyalty to constituted authorities.
He said: “On behalf of my family and constituents, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and indeed the entire National Assembly, I wish to sincerely congratulate all our Christian brothers and sisters on the celebration of the feast of Christmas, which marks the birth of Jesus Christ.
“As you celebrate, I urge you not only to merry but also, continue to pray for our dear country Nigeria and our leaders. Show love to one another and continue to reflect on the life of Jesus Christ, especially his humility, sacrifice, love for neighbour and loyalty to God and constituted authority. Our today’s pain will surely produce joyful gains in a very short time.
“In this season of joy, may Jesus’ birth resonate within us all, guiding our thoughts, our words, and our actions. May His hope re-ignite our spirits, encouraging us to spread love and kindness to those around us. Each small act of goodwill can illuminate a life, bringing light to the darkest corners of our world.
“Christmas is a time when hope fills the air, when merriment and goodwill permeate our hearts. Yet, amidst the glittering lights and festive cheer, it is essential to remember the reason for this season – the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. In a world grappling with uncertainty, strife, and challenges, Jesus remains the beacon of hope, offering solace and assurance to all who seek Him.”

Tinubu To Nigerians: Continue To Bear The Hardships…Will Be Over Soon

Greenbarge Reporters

December 24, 2023

President Bola Tinubu has once again, called on Nigerians to continue to bear the hardships currently walking tall in many homes, assuring that measures taken so far will eventually lead to prosperity.
“My administration will continue to implement palliative measures to ease the burden on the most vulnerable, address current hardships and alleviate the suffering of all our nation’s people.”
In a message to the citizens today, December 24, the eve of Christmas this year, 2023, Tinubu said: “as we navigate this transition to stability, prosperity, and Renewed Hope, I urge you once more to hold fast and rest assured of my commitment to govern with vision, dedication, and empathy.
“Be confident that by the strength of our joint endeavour, we will shortly emerge into a new dawn of prosperity, peace, and irreversible progress.”
He described Christmas, which is the birthday of Jesus Christ as a celebration of hope and redemption.
He asked the citizens to sieze the opportunity of the Christmas to enjoy the company of family, celebrate life, and delight in the gifts of love and friendship that make life worthwhile.
“This is also a time to look out for each other because, amidst the festivities, this time of year for many will be tinged with sadness: some mourning the loss of loved ones and others grieving the hopes that failed to materialise and the dreams that fell short.
“In the spirit of Christmas, reflecting the best of Christ, let us all endeavour to extend the warm embrace of kindness to those around us who need it and let the multiple acts of kindness serve as a light that guides us into a happy and wonderful new year.
“This year has been a time of transformation and relentless change in our country. And I am aware that the necessary reforms we are implementing to achieve a more prosperous, peaceful nation for all have imposed unique sacrifices.”
The President called on the citizens to spare a moment of remembrance and prayer for the men and women of the nation’s armed forces, “bearing arms in our names and ensuring our safety.
“May God protect them and bring them back to their families.”
He commemorated the memory of those who, in their service, have paid the highest price for our nation.
“May God bless their souls and comfort their families and loved ones.
“Let the light of Christmas guide our paths as we bring this year to a close and usher in the new year.”

GOCOP Celebrates Appointment Of Its Top Exco Member, Horatius, As NCAA Director

Greenbarge Reporters

December 23, 2023

The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has rolled out talking drums to celebrate the appointment of its Northeast Zonal coordinator, Horatius Egua as Director of Special Duties in the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
Horatius Egua is one of the 46 directors of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) appointed few days ago by the Presidency, including the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Metrological Agency (NiMET), Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigeria Safety and Investigation Bureau (NSIB). NCAA is the regulatory body of the aviation industry in Nigeria under the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The President of GOCOP, who doubles as publisher of Realnews magazine Online, Maureen Chigbo, in a congratulatory message today, December 23, advised Horatius Egua to continue flying GOCOP’s flag as good ambassador, assuring him of the Guild’s support.
She said that Horatius Egua will be the second member of GOCOP to be given an appointment by President Bola Tinubu, who previously made Olufemi Soneye the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Until his appointment, Horatius was the publisher of “The Bridge News” and the immediate past Media Aide to the former Minister of State on Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva.
GOCOP, a registered non-governmental, non-partisan, non-profit organisation, comprises 104 owners of online publication outlets spread across Nigeria and other countries.

6 FCT Area Councils, Stakeholders, Share N4.7 Billion For November

Greenbarge Reporters

December 22, 2023

The six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and other stakeholders have shared a total of N4.7 billion as statutory allocation for the month of November, 2023.

The amount, disbursed by the Administration of Nyeson Wike, according to a statement today, December 22, represent a slight decrease to N4,966,217,872.99 billion shared in the month of October, 2023.
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, who presided over the 184th Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), meeting, applauded stakeholders for their invaluable contributions.
A breakdown of the figures released during the JAAC meeting indicates that the sum of N2,278,074,927.90 billion was made available for distribution to the six Area Councils, while the sum of N2,451,206,558.74 billion was made available to other stakeholders, bringing the total sum to N4,729,281,486.64.
Similarly, distributions to the six Area Councils show that the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) received N501,091,846.87, while Gwagwalada got N360,916,297.90 and Kuje received N396,980,497.83.
Other Area Councils include Bwari Area Council which received N351,073,007.13, Abaji got N309,019,913.05 while Kwali received N358,993,365.12, bringing the total sum to N2,278,074,927.90 disbursed to the six Area Councils.
Distribution to other critical stakeholders include Primary School Teachers which got N2,069,585,348.67, 15 percent Pension Funds took N226,478,989.57, One percent Training Fund N47,292,814.87, while 10 percent Employer Pension Contribution got N107,849,405.63, bringing the total sum to N2,451,206,558.74.
Present at the 184th Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) meeting were the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Olusade Adesola, who was represented by the Director of OPS, Samuel Atang; Secretary, Area Council Services, Hon. Bitrus Garki, and the Director of Finance and Administration in Area Council Secretariat, Mrs. Omolola Olanipekun.
Others include the Chairman of Abaji Area Council, Abubakar Abdullahi, Chairman of Kwali Area Council, Danladi Chiya, amongst others.

Ex INEC Chairman, Prof Jega, Gets Plum Job In Nasarawa University

Greenbarge Reporters

December 22, 2023

Former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Attahiru Jega has been appointed as the Pro-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK).
A statement in Lafia, the state capital, by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Aliyu Ubandoma, said that the Governor, Abdullahi Sule has approved the appointment.
He said that the appointment is based on the powers bestowed on the Governor, who is the visitor of the institution.
According to the statement, the governor approved the appointment in furtherance to the commitment of the administration to achieve academic excellence in the university.
It said that the governor had also approved the appointment of Shuaibu Kore, Thomas Ogiri and Mrs. Mary Enwongulu as members of the governing council.
The statement said that the governing council would be inaugurated on a date to be announced later.
Source: NAN.

Don’t Waste Electronic Waste, Communications Commission Boss, Maida, Cautions ICT Experts

Greenbarge Reporters

December 22, 2023

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida has cautioned experts in the
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector to reduce the electronic waste generated by the use of the ICT) tools in the country.
Dr. Maida, who spoke at the 2023 ITREALMS E-Waste Dialogue in Lagos recently said that the dynamism in technology economic changes has made it imperative to call for the reduction in waste.
The NCC boss was represented by a Director at NCC from the Department of Technical Standards and Network Integrity, Dr. Lawal Bello at the Dialogue, themed: “You can recycle anything with a plug, battery, and cable,”
Dr. Maida stressed that Nigeria will benefit more by taking conscious measures to reduce the e-waste generated using ICT Tools and equipment in the country.
“This will not only save the country’s expenditure but also less e-waste to manage.”
He listed some E-Waste benefits and opportunities associated with conscious efforts, saying that the environmental and economic benefits of recycling telecom equipment abound.
He said that recycling telecom equipment can reduce Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, save energy, and prevent e-waste from polluting the environment.
“It can also generate value for telcos by reusing, repairing, or reselling hardware and devices.”
Dr. Maida said that the best practices of telcos embracing sustainability would entail that some telcos should launch initiatives to promote recycling and circularity, as UK Vodafone’s internal asset marketplace, which allows operators to repurpose excess or decommissioned hardware, or its device trade-in programme, which encourages customers to return their old devices for recycling or refurbishment.
Dr. Maida said that other telcos have set ambitious targets to reduce their carbon footprint and increase their use of renewable energy.
He advised Nigerian telecoms operators and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) manufacturers to adopt device trade-in.
According to him, such would be nudged to adopt similar ideas on device trade-in programs to reduce E-waste in the country especially for mobile phones and tablets.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Group Executive Editor of ITREALMS Media and convener of the E-Waste Dialogue, Sir Remmy Nweke, acknowledged the partnering entities like the NCC, Internet Exchange of Nigeria ( IXPN), Domain Name System (DNS) Women Nigeria as well as Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), Nigeria IT Reporters Association (NITRA), Waste Managers of Nigeria and E-waste Producer Responsibility Organisation of Nigeria (EPRON) for their consistency in supporting the advocacy.
He stressed the need to positively dispose the mobile devices for the sake of the future and environment.

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