The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has described the designer of the Nigerian national flag, Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi who died today , August 30 at the age of 84, as a national icon.
In a condolence message he personally issued, the minister said that he was saddened over the news of the demise of Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, whose contribution to national unity will remain indelible.
“The death of Pa Akinkunmi came at the time Nigeria was reinventing itself for peace, development and enduring national reconciliation; the country would miss the contributions of the deceased especially at this time that the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is banking on the Renewed Hope Agenda to build on the national fervour that characterized Nigeria’s journey to independence.”
The minister expressed confidence that Pa Akinkunmi will continue to live in the minds of Nigerians for generations to come.
“The National Flag, one of our revered national symbols is an asset for which Pa Akinwunmi has etched his name in the annals of Nigerian history.”
Alhaji Idris expressed his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, praying that God will grant them the fortitude to bear the great loss.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the spread of coup, which he called “autocratic contagion” that appears to be spreading in some parts of the African continent.
Reacting to the bloodless military coup which took place in Gabon, a Central African country today, August 30, President Tinubu said that he is closely watching developments unfolding in that troubled country.
Tinubu, whose position was made known by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, also expressed concern for the country’s socio-political stability in the wake of the coup d’etat.
“The President, as a man who has made significant personal sacrifices in his own life for the cause of advancing and defending democracy, remains steadfast in his unwavering belief that power belongs in the hands of Africa’s great people and not in the barrel of a loaded gun.
“The President affirms that the rule of law and a faithful recourse to constitutional instruments of electoral dispute resolution must not be allowed to perish from our great continent.
“To this end, the President will continue to communicate with other Heads of State within the African Union and beyond toward a comprehensive consensus on the next steps forward.”
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called on the people across the world to join in combatting hatred as a way of eliminating terrorism, with its devastating consequences. Senator Oluremi, who performed the wreath laying ceremony in honor of the victims of the bombing of the United Nations Building in Abuja which occurred on August 26, 2011, called for a world where terrorism is effectively combatted. She said that to achieve this, the global community must channel more energy towards fostering peace, promoting dialogue and combating the forces of hatred and division. The First Lady insisted that the world must not only draw strength from the sacrifice of those serving the cause of peace, but must also recommit to the values of unity, understanding and cooperation that the UN represents. “On this solemn occasion, we remember and honor the lives that were lost. I pay tribute to the dedicated individuals who were serving the cause of peace and development within the walls of UN building. “Today we stand united in our resolve and determination to create a world where the principles of peace, justice and cooperation that the United Nations stands for are not merely ideals, but reality for all.” She was joined by the Undersecretary General of UN, Office of Counterterrorism Valdimir Voronkov in performing the ceremony laying. The Under Secretary General also harped on the need to build solidarity and provide support to victims of terrorism across the world as terrorism continues to threaten peace and security, leaving in its wake, hundreds of thousands of victims and survivors. “The Federal Republic of Nigeria knows the consequences of terrorism within and around its borders all too well. “Indeed, parts of Africa have experienced the highest impact of terrorism for many years. “The United Nations itself is not immune from terrorism. Two weeks ago, we marked the 20thanniversary of the devastating attack on the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, on 19 August 2003.” The brief ceremony was witnessed by heads of some of the United Nations Agencies in Nigeria.
The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Offer of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Professor Umar Garba Danbatta has said that the Commission has been nurturing the country’s local talents, encouraging a culture of entrepreneurship and creativity. He added that the aim is to gradually propel Nigeria onto the global stage of technological leadership. Professor Danbatta spoke at the second edition of the Nigerian Telecommunications Indigenous Content EXPO (NTICE ,2023), held in Lagos. It is the only telecom event in Nigeria that is solely focused on Indigenous Content promotion, development and adaptation. Professor Danbatta stressed that NTICE is a place to nurture and support the burgeoning talent pool within Nigeria. “By showcasing indigenous innovations and providing opportunities for young entrepreneurs, we are not only nurturing our local talents but also encouraging a culture of entrepreneurship and creativity that will propel Nigeria onto the global stage of technological leadership. “Having recognized the persistent digital divide that exists within our nation, let us seize the opportunities presented by NTICE 2023 to bridge this gap by advocating for accessible technology and ensuring that the benefits of innovation are extended to every corner of Nigeria. “This inclusivity is crucial in driving equitable growth and empowering communities to be active participants in the digital revolution. “We note that in a world that is increasingly interconnected and digital, the concept of technological sovereignty holds immense significance.” The NCC boss said that this year’s event themed: “Harnessing Indigenous Content for Economic Growth; Networking to boost Investment” was carefully designed by the Commission to build on the maiden edition of the NTICE. According to him, NTICE is not only an exhibition but it is also a gathering of industry players that embodies the spirit of innovation, resilience, collaboration, and progress. “It presents a remarkable opportunity to celebrate and showcase Nigeria’s achievements in the world of telecommunications, technology, as well as indigenous content creation and adoption.” He stressed the need for the stakeholders to recognize the transformative power of domestic innovation and the pivotal role it plays in shaping digital future of nations, their economies and their futures. Professor Danbatta said that the Nigerian Telecoms Sector has been amongst the biggest contributors to socio-economic growth of the country, “as evidenced by the numerous achievements of the sector. “It is not out of place to mention that the sector’s performance was instrumental to lifting Nigeria out of recession with 12.45% contribution to the GDP in Q4 2020. This figure increased to 14.13% as at Q1 2023.” The NCC boss saw the event as a beacon of Nigeria’s commitment to taking charge of its technological destiny. “By promoting indigenous content, we are not only fostering economic growth but also asserting our autonomy and self-reliance in the digital realm.” He emphasized that the Nigeria Telecom Indigenous Content Expo (NTICE) 2023, is a declaration of Nigeria’s commitment to shaping its digital destiny. “As we navigate this dynamic landscape, let us remember that our progress is intrinsically linked to our ability to harness the power of indigenous innovation, leverage technology for positive change, and ensure that no one is left behind on this transformative journey. “Let’s embrace NTICE as a symbol of our collective potential, a platform to celebrate our achievements, and a driving force to propel Nigeria towards a brighter, more digitally empowered future.” Professor Danbatta expressed confidence that the best would come out of event, and would chart a new course.
A coup d’etat has just occurred in Gabon, a Central African, French speaking country, as senior military officials made a public appearance on national television today, August 30, asserting that they have taken control of the government due to their doubts about the legitimacy of the recent weekend elections. In the early hours of today, August 30, the officers were featured on Gabon24, where they declared the annulment of the elections, the dissolution of all governmental bodies, and the sealing of the country’s borders. The statement emphasized that they were acting on behalf of the entirety of Gabon’s security and defense forces. This announcement swiftly followed the declaration by the state’s electoral body that President Ali Bongo Ondimba had secured a third term in office during the contested elections on Saturday. “On behalf of the Gabonese populace, we have opted to safeguard peace by bringing an end to the existing regime,” the officers stated. According to the Gabonese Election Centre, Bongo attained 64.27 percent of the vote, while his primary contender, Albert Ondo Ossa, secured 30.77 percent. However, the electoral process was marred by significant delays. Reports said that there was considerable uncertainty surrounding the military intervention and a palpable sense of tension. The military leadership contended that the government has been neglecting the will of the Gabonese people for an extended period and insisted on change. During Saturday’s election, the opposition faction labeled the proceedings as a “deception orchestrated by Ali Bongo and his supporters.” This assertion was made amid the shutdown of the internet and the imposition of a curfew. The French media outlets France 24, RFI, and TV5 Monde were also prohibited from reporting due to alleged bias in connection with the ongoing general elections, as asserted by the government. Soi indicated that the internet was still inaccessible, echoing the fears and trepidation of the populace. Access to information concerning the unfolding situation in Gabon remained limited. President Bongo, the candidate of the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG), which was founded by his father, Omar Bongo, has held a firm grip on power since succeeding his father, who ruled Gabon from 1967 to 2009. The current location of President Bongo is unknown, as the military has not disclosed this information. Tensions escalated during Saturday’s vote, with the opposition advocating for change and an end to the enduring influence of the Bongo family over Gabon. Following the military’s proclamation, reports from Reuters and AFP confirmed the sounds of gunfire in Libreville, the capital city of Gabon.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has promised that results of the Kogi State November 11 governorship election will be transmitted electronically directly from polling units to its server.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the State, Professor Gabriel Longpet, said today, August 29, at a two-day media roundtable Engagement on the Kogi election, Organized by the Independent Press Center (IPC) in Abuja that the electronic transmission of the results will help to eliminate rigging.
He said that it would also curtail electoral fraud and other irregularities for the enthronement of credibility and transparency in the electoral process.
“Of course, we will be transmitting the Kogi election electronically. A lot of infractions do happen between the polling units and the collation centres; the transmission of the results through electronic methods will definitely prevent such issues of infractions from occurring.
“By the electoral acts, any results figures on form EC8A that appeared mutilated cannot be allowed. If results are transmitted electronically to the IREV, there will be no need for results to be hijacked in the first place, mutilated or changed.”
The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has declared war with those he called “land grabbers,” popularly known as Omo onile in Yoruba language.
Responding to a series of petitions that had flooded his office over harassment and molestation of artisans and contractors on building sites across the state, the Governor expressed disgust and anger at the reign of violence on innocent building workers by the so-called Omo oniles.
He said that his government will not tolerate the gruesome tactics of the Omo onile in forcing landowners to part with their hard earned money, stressing that security agencies have been instructed to go hard on anyone involved in the unwholesome practice.
“I have received several petitions from Osogbo, Ife, Ilesa, Ikirun, Iwo, and almost every major town in Osun state. Recently, I received more than three petitions from Osogbo alone, where perpetrators allegedly maim and even killed some site workers.
“I have reports of seizure of work equipment belonging to artisans and even illegal detention of contractors and site workers. All these must stop forthwith.
“I have subsequently directed security agencies to conduct special operations to go after perpetrators. Our administration will not tolerate brazen lawlessness and unwarranted disruption of livelihoods of innocent citizens.
“I’m also requesting victims of these untoward activities to report incidence to law enforcement agencies for appropriate actions.”
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike has made available, the sum of over N825 million to compensate Jiwa community to pave for the construction of the 2nd runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja. “As we leave here, the Federal Capital Territory through the FCDA will release the money approved for compensation and resettlement of those who are there. The total value of what we are paying is N825, 819,911.43 (Eight hundred and twenty-five million, eight hundred and nineteen thousand naira, Nine Hundred and Eleven Naira Forty-Three Kobo) for the compensation and resettlement.” The minister spoke today, August 29, shortly after signing of an agreement between the Federal Capital Territory Administration, the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Jiwa community on whose land the runway will be constructed. The contract for the construction of the second runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was awarded in March 2022 by the Ministry of Aviation and Aero Space Development, but work could not commence due to disagreements over issues of resettlement and compensation. At the signing of the agreement between the FCTA and the Jiwa community today, Wike said that contractors will now move to site in the next few days to commence work on the project. The minister expressed gratitude to God for the amicable resolution of the contending issues. He also appreciated the Sarkin Jiwa, Alhaji Idris Musa, for mobilizing his people to resolve the issues and that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated the Ministry of Aviation to kick-start and complete the second runway project, which is very vital for the international airport in the capital city. Wike said that as part of incentives to the community, the FCT Administration will give immediate employment to 10 indigenes of the Jiwa community, while another 12 will come from the Ministry of Aviation and the Aviation Agencies. He assured them that the Administration will include the rehabilitation of the Tunga Madaki bridge in Jiwa community in the 2024 budget, in addition to the provision of a modern healthcare facility. “We are going to construct Tunga Madaki bridge which will be put in 2024 budget. Secondly, we are going to provide for the community, a modern healthcare facility that is better than what is there now. “We believe by the grace God, if that is done today and then tomorrow or next tomorrow, the money is paid to them, the contractors will no longer delay. They have to move to the site immediately and commence work. The second runway has come to stay.” Earlier in his remark, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN) said that work ought to have started on the second runway project but regretted that contractors could not be mobilized to site due to the contending issues. Keyamo called on the community to cooperate with the government to ensure the realization of the project, adding that they also stand to benefit from the development in the area in addition to other corporate social responsibility to the community. Also speaking, the Sarkin Jiwa, Alhaji Idris Musa assured of the cooperation and support of the Jiwa community towards the actualization of the project which, he said, is in the overriding interest of the public. During the signing ceremony between the FCTA, Ministry of Aviation and the Jiwa Community, the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Olusade Adesola said that the compensation was for enumerated communities in Jiwa which still had one community -Angwan Kano- yet to be enumerated. On the conclusion of the enumeration, he said, community will also be compensated.
The acting Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi has expressed confidence that the emergence of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) will help in sifting the grains from the chaff in online journalism practice. According to him, it will be easier to determine who the real professionals in the online business are for proper synergy. The Customs Boss, who received in audience, members of the national executive council of GOCOP, in his office in Abuja, was particularly elated to learn that real professionals are the ones within the rank of GOCOP. He acknowledged the fact that GOCOP is made up of former Managing Directors/Editor-in-Chiefs, Editors and Line Editors, who have worked in the newspaper business for at least 10 years before venturing into online journalism practice. Adeniyi assured GOCOP members in particular, and the media in general of his continued partnership towards achieving the goals of his service. Speaking earlier, the President of GOCOP, Maureen Chigbo sought the support of the Controller General on the Annual General Conference of the Guild scheduled to hold on October 4 and 5, for the first time in many years, in Abuja, the nation’s federal capital. Chigbo, who led the team on the visit, said that GOCOP is a group made up of top rated journalists who have practiced at the highest level in journalism. She advised the Customs boss to ensure synergy with the media, in recognition of the fact that he used to be in charge of the Service’s public relations before he became Comptroller General. The GOCOP team included the immediate past President, Dotun Oladipo; the current Deputy President, Danlami Nmodu, mni; Vice President (South), Ken Ugbeche; Vice President (North),Tom Chiahemen; General Secretary, Collins Edomaruse and an Abuja-based member, Tajudeen Kareem. The Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Abdullahi Maiwada, was also present at the courtesy visit alongside other officers.
A right activist cleric, Bishop Seun Adeoye has described the three month old government of President Bola Tinubu as the period of extreme hardship and untold sufferings for majority of Nigerians. Bishop Seun Adeoye who is the Spokesman of World Bishops’ Council (WBC), Africa, in a statement today, August 29, expressed displeasure at the current situation in the country. Adeote, who is also the Presiding Prelate of Sufficient Grace and Truth Ministries (SGTM), noted that the untold hardship is fast becoming unbearable for the citizens. “Today, 29th of August marks three months of Tinubu’s government. But within these three months, businesses are collapsing, people are becoming jobless, hunger now pervades the land and many who appear to be alive are just walking corpses. “Let the truth be told, this ‘ground’ is not ‘running’ Mr. President. It has been three months of extreme hardship and suffering for Nigerians. And it is virtually becoming unbearable. “You and your family are up there in a secured Aso Rock. Those who surrounded 7 you are big men. They can’t feel the pains the way we the people do. ‘Igboro o rerin Sir’. I mean people are not happy at all. “We cannot pretend that there is sadness everywhere. “Is there anything new done by this administration that has never been done? None. “Our ‘City Boy’ almost dragged us into war with Niger Republic while terrorists, bandits and kidnappers are still having their field days in our own country. “The other day, soldiers were slaughtered in Niger state and some intending Youth Corpers were kidnapped in Zamfara. “A new government ought to have even shown some signs of strength but killings in Plateau, Niger and Benue States and other places were manifestations of ‘continuity’ of the past. “‘Subsidy is gone’ but the so called palliatives are mere political statement. “A N5billion largesse to a state with 5million population is just N1,000 per person. Yet, prices of foodstuffs and transportations have gone up astronomically and the masses are crying. “Mr. President, your 100,000 bags of rice per state is a huge joke. It can’t go one ‘kongo or mudu’ each per family. I don’t trade in foreign currency but how’s the dollar market today compare to when you take over? “Soon, very soon, we’ll be overwhelmed by propaganda and sponsored performance statistics. But the fact remains that this government has not only taken food off the tables of the masses but has successfully taken smiles off their cheeks. “Please, sit up, stop all the rhetorically comments. They are becoming norms. You promised to fix Nigeria. Then, do something about it. You get just few months to do so. If not, it’ll be on record that yours is the worst government that ever ruled Nigeria.” Bishop Adeoye called on Nigerians not to stop ever praying for the country and her leaders, admonishing that God will intervene and see the nation through its troubles.
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The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris has described the designer of the Nigerian national flag, Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi who died today , August 30 at the age of 84, as a national icon.
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the spread of coup, which he called “autocratic contagion” that appears to be spreading in some parts of the African continent.
