President Bola Tinubu has made a move to send Nigerian armed forces to Niger Republic for military action and has written to seek the approval of the Senate. President Tinubu, as the Head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is seeking approval from the Senate to execute the proposed military action and other sanctions against the military officers for seizing power recenty in the Niger Republic. The letter was read on the floor of the Upper Chamber by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio. The letter read: “Political situation in Niger. “Following the unfortunate political situation in the Niger Republic culminating in the overthrow of its President, ECOWAS under my leadership condemned the coup in its entirety and resolved to seek the return of the democratically elected govt. in a bid to restore peace, ECOWAS convened a meeting and came out with a communique. “Closure and monitoring of all land borders with the Niger Republic and reactivating of the border drilling exercise.” Meanwhile, the military junta in Niger Republic has cut off ties with Nigeria after the efforts of Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) to resolve the ongoing impasse failed. “Niger severed ties with Nigeria, Togo, France, its coloniser, and the United States. “The functions of the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors of the Republic of Niger to France, Nigeria, Togo and the United States are terminated,” Radio France International quoted one of the putschists to have said on national television. ECOWAS had issued a seven-day ultimatum for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum to avoid possible clash with the junta. But President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, sent a high-powered delegation to the country to meet with the coup leaders, on Thursday. The delegation, led by retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar only met with representatives of the junta.
President Bola Tinubu has withdrawn Mariam Shettima (Shetty) from the list of the Ministerial nominees to the Senate for screening. She’s the nominee from Kano State. Senate President, Godswill Akpabio made this known at the plenary today, August 4, quoting from a letter from the President. Mariam Shettima had earlier been included in the list of 19 nominees sent to the Senate on Wednesday. Her inclusion had continued to generate mixed reactions from Nigerians on social media. Meanwhile, the name of the former minister of State for Labour and employment, Festus Keyamo, has been included in the list of the ministerial nominees to be screened by the Senate.
The Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has dispatched a delegation to Niger Republic with a mandate to expeditiously resolve the current political impasse in the country. Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, m Ajuri Ngelale, in a statement today, August 3, said that the action is in line with the resolution reached at the end of the extraordinary summit of the ECOWAS held last weekend in Abuja.
The delegation, headed by former Nigerian Head of State, Retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who led the delegation, left for Niamey on today, after a briefing by President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. The former Nigerian Head of State is joined in the delegation by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III and the President of the ECOWAS Commission,. Omar Alieu Touray. The President also sent a separate delegation, led by Ambassador Babagana Kingibe to engage with the leaders of Libya and Algeria on the Niger crisis. Briefing the two delegations, President Tinubu charged them to engage all stakeholders robustly with a view to doing whatever it takes to ensure a conclusive and amicable resolution of the situation in Niger for the purposes of African peace and development rather than a move to adopt the geopolitical positions of other nations. “We don’t want to hold brief for anybody. Our concern is democracy and the peace of the region,” the President said. Speaking after the meeting, retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar said that the delegation would meet the coup leaders in Niger to present the demands of the ECOWAS leadership. Both leaders of the two missions expressed optimism on the outcome of the assignments.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu was in Daura, Katsina State today, August 3, on a visit to check the well-being of the immediate past President, Muhammadu Buhari. The First Lady, who was accompanied by the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, said that the visit is also to thank Buhari for the fatherly support he has been giving. She prayed for long life , good health and more support from him not only for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu but Nigeria. In his brief remarks, the former president expressed appreciation to the visitors, saying that the visit was remarkable. “As you can all see, she came to check up on me and see that I am doing okay.“ Others with the First Lady were the wife of the Katsina State Governor, Hajiya Dikko Radda and the wife of the Speaker, Katsina State House of Assembly Hajiya Nasir Daura among other APC women chieftains in the State.
The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Professor Umar Danbatta, has recommended a book, titled “Cyber Politics” and written by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan to readers. Professor Danbatta commended the author for his uncommon industry, literary efforts, and activism in trying to make the society better through shared knowledge. He spoke at the public presentation of the book: “Cyber Politics: Social Media, Social Demography and Voting Behaviour in Nigeria,” in Abuja recently, where government officials, journalists, friends, and accomplished professionals converged on Abuja for the event. The author, Dr. Ibietan is the Head, Media Relations Management at NCC and Danbatta, had done him the honour of not only writing the foreword to the book but also playing the role of the presenter of the book to the members of the public. “I’m fascinated by Ibietan’s passion to write a book on cyber politics. Combining his official work at NCC together with his passion to produce this book is commendable. I think Dr. Ibietan committed class suicide by joining the services of the NCC instead of being in the classroom. That is the difference between Dr. Ibietan and I. He joined the Commission to serve while I was beckoned to come and serve the Commission from the classroom.” On the task involved in writing, Danbatta said: “People who sit down and put their thoughts together and commit those thoughts into writing to produce impactful books such as this are some of the most intelligent people in our society. Dr. Ibietan’s literary effort is highly recognized, and we are happy to have such a hard worker in the Commission.” The EVC said that aside from his intellect and excellent public speaking skills, Ibietan is also known as an activist, who strives to make societal conditions better. Prof. Danbatta said that he had had a smooth relationship with Dr. Ibietan over the last eight years of his being at the helm of affairs at NCC. The CEO of NCC said: “The different stages that writing a book entail are not easy; it is difficult, from the time you start putting your thoughts together, to coming up with the manuscript. That is why his efforts in writing this book should be seen as laudable, as I have heard there are more books coming after this one and we look forward to that. “It, therefore, gives me great pleasure, to present this book, on behalf of the Management and Staff of the NCC and Premium Times Books (the publisher), to members of the public and I encourage you all to buy and read this book and I am sure you will not regret the time you spend on this literary effort,” Danbatta stated. Danbatta, a professor of telecommunications engineering, said in his foreword to the book: “the author situates the historical context of Nigerian politics and democracy” and more so…the nexus between social media and voting behaviour, and the influence of the social media ecosystem among others in the electoral process.” The EVC described the book “as a compelling narrative, a scholar’s guide, and companion on the various political communication themes it interprets. It is difficult to put down this work once you are drawn by its alluring and free-flowing prose and incisive analysis.” Published by Premium Times Books, the 460-page literary work reviews Nigeria’s democracy through its elections, particularly the role of social media. But Cyber Politics is not just about the last general election and filial squabbles, said Azubuike Ishiekwene, the editor-in-chief of Leadership Newspapers, who reviewed the book in Abuja. “It’s a deeper phase in the exploratory journey of Omoniyi P. Ibietan whose interest in political communication and its sociology goes back to his early student days.” At the programme, several dignitaries praised the author for writing the book, which some described as an “exemplary literary work.” In 12 chapters, Cyber Politics examines the themes of cyberculture, social demographics, political communication and voting behaviour. It is also a subject that evokes decades of research, but which nonetheless retains its fascination as scholars continue to explore the fraught question of why voters behave the way they do, especially during elections, Ishiekwene said. The book explores, among other things, the question of whether political conversations among Nigeria’s estimated 33 million active social media users, especially the influencers, had any significant impact on the outcome of the 2015 elections. A former Minister of Information and Communication in Nigeria, Frank Nweke Jr, said that the book represents an uncommon body of work by an intellectual visionary, and is conviced that the “extrapolation of the lessons and recommendations of this book will find perfect expression in other climes beyond the 2015 Nigerian General Elections scenario.” Nweke, a former boss of the author, who chaired the book presentation, commended Ibietan for this remarkable work, and recommended the book for practitioners and academics in the fields of strategic communications, new technologies, and social change. Over the past two decades, Ibietan has researched deeply the emergent interface between communication studies and psephology, which explains his richly nuanced understanding and far sight into the issues involved. This point was also made by Premium Times Editor-In-Chief, Musikilu Mojeed, who described Ibietan’s book as “a classic. “It uses Nigeria’s 2015 presidential election as the sounding board for analyses that offer great insights into the future of voting behaviour in Africa’s largest democracy. Those who have interacted with the title have described it as both skilful in its rendition and ground-cutting in its intellectual approach. “At Premium Times Books, we look forward to continuing to publish books that will deepen knowledge about important aspects of our lives. We are interested in getting a number of disappearing classics back to libraries and bookshelves across our country and beyond. If you have any suggestions for us, be kind to get in touch.” In the introduction he wrote for the book, Dapo Olorunyomi, the publisher of Premium Times, said: “The universe of this new book is intriguing” in its exploration of the “digital effect” on elections. He pointed out how Ibietan’s work demonstrates “clearly that social media systems do enrich electoral democracy by expanding access to registration, participation, voting and organising at a scale we have never contemplated.”
Some Multilateral Agencies have risen to address the growing cases of cancer, which they said had claimed 79,000 Lives in Nigeria with 124,000 new cases rising every year. The agencies are the Federal Ministry of Health, Federal Capital Territory Administration, the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Medicaid Cancer Foundation and City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/Can). A statement from the spokesman of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Anthony Ogunleye said that cancer account for the second highest cancer burden in Africa. The statement said that the agencies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to address the acute cancer burden in Abuja, Nigeria. It quoted Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Health, Engr, P. Funso Adebiyi, as saying: “this collective effort strengthens the Ministry’s commitment to fostering a healthier Nigeria by urgently reducing our country’s cancer incidence and mortality. “Given Nigeria’s sizable population within the region, Abuja’s partnership with C/Can carries immense potential for broad-scale impact on our health systems and the health of our population,” said Olusade Adesola, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The statement said that to ensure the success of the initiative, the city of Abuja has, over the last two years, conducted assessments to inform the development of a strategy to implement the project, culminating in a three-year City Engagement Process. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for C/Can, Isabel Mestres confirmed progress has already been made. “Throughout 2022, with the support of C/Can, Abuja has undertaken a robust due diligence process. This has provided a comprehensive understanding of the local cancer care landscape, paving the way for the next steps, including the launch of a three-year City Engagement Process.” The C/Can City Engagement Process will be led by a local governance body, the City Executive Committee, with the support of a dedicated city manager, to engage stakeholders in identifying needs, and implementing locally-created cancer care solutions. “Alone, we can do a lot. However, as partners, we can strengthen Abuja’s cancer ecosystem. I am certain that this partnership with C/Can will achieve the much-needed transformation,” said Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, CEO of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation. The Clinton Health Access Initiative in Nigeria will bring their global health expertise and on-the-ground experience to ensure the continuity of local solutions. Owens Wiwa, Executive Vice President of the Clinton Health Access Initiative Nigeria, noted: “Through C/Can, we have an unparalleled opportunity to ensure that progress made in cancer care at a city level will benefit the most people in both Abuja and the rest of Nigeria.” Abuja’s successful application to join C/Can was supported by the FCT Administration and Ministry of Health of Nigeria and led by a task force of leading organisations, including civil society. Abuja is the 14th city and the fourth African city to join the growing C/Can network alongside Kumasi (Ghana), Kigali (Rwanda) and Nairobi (Kenya). C/Can is set to launch a new call for city applications later in 2023.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has elected former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, as the National Chairman of the party. The party’s NEC also elected former Senate spokesman, Ajibola Basiru, as National Secretary. The two party officials were elected today, August 3, at the 12th NEC meeting of the party held at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton in Abuja.
President Bola Tinubu has called on the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to embrace accountability in all forms, especially with respect to financial discipline and in the active promotion of top-level women and youth participation in the day-to-day operations of the party. This, he said, would go a long way to strengthen the party and firmly establish its stability as a governing party. The President, who spoke today, August 2, at the National Caucus meeting of the party, which took place at the State House, Abuja, said that the future of the party belongs to Nigeria’s young people and women, considering their proven dedication and demonstrable prowess in election matters. “As a party, we must handle our finances very well. I hope the financial audit recommended by the National Working Committee (NWC) will help us strengthen our finances better. I thank our governors who contribute generously to the wallet of the party. These times are tough. We are challenged. Please continue to support the party. “Our party also needs to be more gender friendly, and we need more participation from the youths because they own our tomorrow. Let’s get more youths and women involved. They are very dedicated election masters.” President Tinubu informed the party leaders in attendance, about the decisions he has taken so far to reform the country’s economy, reiterating that Nigeria cannot continue to sustain the treasury-depleting fuel subsidy and losses incurred by the past foreign exchange management regime. “We can’t continue to play poker with our economy. That is why I took the decisions I have taken so far.” In his welcome address, Acting APC National Chairman, Senator Abubakar Kyari commended President Tinubu for the steps he has taken so far to reposition the economy for greater productivity and future prosperity. The Acting National Chairman presented two memos to the National Caucus; Appointment of External Auditors and filling of vacant party offices. The two major party positions which the Caucus considered are that of the National Chairmanship and National Secretary seats that will be filled by the National Executive Council (NEC) at its next scheduled meeting for Thursday, August 3, 2023 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja. Those in attendance at today’s caucus meeting included the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; former National Chairmen, Chief Bisi Akande Chief John Oyegun, as well as serving governors, former governors and National Assembly members.
The Presidency has confirmed that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has called off its nationwide strike after meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President’s spokesperson, in a statement today, August 2, said that the protesting workers have agreed to discontinue further protests. The statement reads: “The leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) led by its President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and that of Trade Union Congress, Comrade Festus Usifo, held a meeting with President Bola Tinubu Wednesday evening at the State House, Abuja. “Consequent upon the fruitful and frank discussion with President Tinubu and their confidence in his ability to encourage open and honest consideration of all the issues put forward by the Labour Movement, the Labour Leaders resolved to stop further protest. “They opted for further constructive engagement with the government to resolve all outstanding issues as they affect the working people and Nigerians in general. “President Tinubu gave his commitment to the Labour leaders that the Port Harcourt refineries will start production by December 2023 after the completion of the ongoing rehabilitation contract between NNPCL and Italian firm, Maire Tecnimont SpA. “President Tinubu assured the Labour leaders that he would continue to work for the best interest of Nigeria while pleading with the Labour leaders to join hands with him to birth a better and economically buoyant country.”
President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero has said that the Congress is going to meet to review some commitments which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made to them today, August 2. President Tinubu, today, had an emergency meeting with the leadership of the Organised labour at the Presidential villa, Abuja, to address the issues that led to the nationwide protest which they embarked on today, August 2. Answering reporters’ questions shortly after the meeting, Ajaero said that the issues discussed are the same issues that led to the protest today. He said that the President however, expressed his position, made some commitment, which were taken side-by-side with what the Senate said to them earlier in the day when they marched to the National Assembly. “And we’re taking it back to the office with our colleagues to review it and release a document on our next line of action. “We have gone deeper into them. The President’s broadcast has broader issues, but there are one or two things that need immediate attention.” The NLC President said that no one person can call off the protest, saying: “that’s why I say we’ll have to go back to the office so that they, the EXCO, will look at it before they come up. “And by tomorrow, the NLC will equally have their NEC meeting, to look at the bigger picture.” On whether President Tinubu asked them to suspend the protest, Ajaero simply said: “the President is a pro-democracy activist. So he understands protests.”
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
