CBN Moves To Collaborate On Financial Inclusion With Bill Gates

June 25, 2023

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) have held strategic discussions in Abuja on how to deepen collaboration on financial inclusion in Nigeria.

Speaking at the meeting held on June 22, the apex Bank’s Acting Governor, Folashodun Shonubi, reiterated the commitment of the CBN to continually partner with BMGF and other development partners to explore innovative solutions for driving access to finance.

Shonubi, who was accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability (FSS), Mrs. Aisha Ahmad, said that though much progress had been made in various aspects of financial inclusion, some challenges still remained in attaining the desired level of financial inclusion in Nigeria.

He, therefore, called for greater partnership between the Bank and the BMGF.

In his remarks, the co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates highlighted the foundation’s focus areas for continued engagement in Nigeria to include health, agriculture and financial services.

Gates expressed satisfaction that support from his organization is catalyzing developmental action in Nigeria.

He said that there are still challenges and gaps, even as he expressed optimism that the country would witness better outcomes given the new economic and monetary policies currently in place in Nigeria.

The BMGF has supported financial inclusion in Nigeria since 2012 and has been a strategic partner of the CBN in driving innovation to reach excluded segments of Nigeria’s population with financial products and services. The partnership has brought about strategic initiatives such as the Nigeria Financial Services Maps, a gateway for geospatial mapping of access points, the development of the National Financial Inclusion Strategy in 2012 and a revision in 2018, research into financial exclusion, scoping of digital financial services in Nigeria, and many more activities that help accelerate access to financial services.

Gates was accompanied by the duo of Christopher Elias, President, Global Development, BMGF; and Abi Jagun, Senior Programme Officer, BMGF.

Other members on the CBN team were Mr. Philip Yila Yusuf, Director Development Finance; and Dr. Paul Oluikpe, Head Financial Inclusion.

Don’t Appoint Failed Politicians, Technocrats As Ministers, Group Advises President Tinubu

Editorial staff

June 25, 2023

A group, Arewa Economic Forum (AEC) has advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to appoint those it referred to as “failed politicians and technocrats” into the federal cabinet as ministers.

The group stressed the need for the President to prioritize merits and pedigrees in the appointments of not only ministers but also advisers and heads of various agencies.

The forum said that by placing meritocracy at the forefront of decision-making, the President can ensure that the best individuals are entrusted with the responsibility of serving the nation.

The Chairman of the group, Ibrahim Yahaya Dandakata, at a media interface in Abuja asked the President not appoint people whose only credentials are political participation or who had failed in the previous positions they held.

He commended Tinubu on the recent appointments of the National Security Adviser, Service Chiefs and others which are in line with the principle of federal character, and defined by competence and track record, adding that the same method should be applied for subsequent appointments.

“We firmly believe that the appointment of individuals who possess the necessary competence, track record of probity, diligence, and capabilities is a crucial step toward effective leadership and governance. Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture and the country’s leadership must be guided by these qualities rather than political patronage and expediency.

“Nigeria has been battered with economic, social, and political problems, which have consequently resulted in issues of national concern, such as a high rate of unemployment, unprecedented inflation, and disunity among citizens, which metamorphosed into insecurity in some parts of the country.

“The President, who was elected primarily on the strength of his track record as a public administrator and an accomplished businessman, has demonstrated an unblemished record of integrity. His unquestionable reputation as one of the most investigated politicians in Nigeria, having been scrutinized by various anti-corruption agencies and found not wanting, is a testament to his commitment to transparency and accountability.

“We, therefore, urged the President to continue preserving this legacy and projecting a positive image of his administration and the country. As subsequent appointments, including those for ministers and other positions, are considered, we encourage the President to prioritize competence, track record, and merit above any other considerations.”

Dankata said that the Arewa Economic Forum remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote good governance, accountability, and the welfare of the Nigerian people.

“We stand ready to work alongside the government in its efforts to build a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.”

Members of the Arewa Economic Forum included academics, business entrepreneurs, industrialists, legal practitioners, youth leaders, and retired officers from the security and public services.

Prof. Danbatta Wins Platinum Award For NCC’s Performance

Editorial staff

June 25, 2023

Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), at the weekend in Lagos, won the Platinum Award of the Nigeria Academy of Engineering (NAEng.), being a reward for his leadership of the nation’s telecom regulator for its contributions to the development and growth of engineering profession in the technological and economic development of the country.

President of the Academy, Professor Azikiwe Onwualu, said during the award presented by doyen of engineering and Former Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority, Vincent Maduka, that the Commission deserved the award as it has done the profession proud in its telecom regulatory process and promotion of engineering as shown in its strong support for the NAEng.

While handing over the award at the 2023 Annual Technology Dinner of the Academy, Maduka said, “Prof. Danbatta has contributed immensely to the sustainability of all initiatives of the professional body, just as his role to the development of engineering profession in general is being felt in Nigeria, through his effective regulation of the telecommunications sector.”

Danbatta, a professor of electrical and electronics engineering, who is a member of Council, and a fellow of NAEng, while receiving the award, expressed appreciation to the illustrious institute for considering the Commission worthy of the award.

Danbatta dedicated the award to the ‘hardworking and diligent staff of the Nigerian Communications Commission’, who, he said, have continued to demonstrate commitment to supporting his vision to promote regulatory excellence toward sustaining growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.

“I could not have done the good work you credited me with, without the support and cooperation of NCC staff and we are delighted that the public is watching, listening and observing what we are doing and a testimony to this fact is the platinum category award we have just been given by the apex engineering body in the country,” the EVC stated.

Danbatta further said: “I want to assure the public that the NCC will do whatever it can, within its mandates, to bring out impactful initiatives that will drive the digital transformation process that will ultimately make telecom services pervasive and affordable to all parts of the country.”

He used the opportunity to speak about some of the initiatives of the Commission that have struck a rhythm in the socio-economic development of the nation.

These, he said, include the one targeted at the Nigerian youths across the country where the Commission trains the youth, provides them with laptops, and other equipment that can make them access the internet with a view to equipping them to develop their skill and earn a living.

Danbatta assured of the Commission’s commitment to driving digital connectivity aimed at bridging extant clusters of access gaps in Nigeria. “We have a target of 70 per cent broadband penetration by 2025, as contained in the Nigerian National Broadband Plan (NNBP). We are around 50 per cent currently and I can assure you that we are hopeful that we will achieve and surpass that target,” he said.

The Nigerian Academy of Engineering was established to pursue excellence in science, technology and engineering as well as provide a national platform for experts to harness their experiences and insights and make input into public and private technical policy.

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I Was Forced To Marry A Man I Didn’t Love – Actress Ini-Edo

Editorial staff

June 24, 2023

Nollywood actress, Iniobong Edo has opened up on her failed marriage, saying that she was forced to marry a man she didn’t love in the first place.

In an interview with well-known media personality, Chude Jideonwo, she admitted that she had second thoughts about getting married in the first place.

On November 29, 2008, the beautiful thespian married American-based businessman, Philip Ehiagwina, but the marriage only lasted five years before the couple divorced in 2013.

In the interview, Ini-Edo said that the marriage was forced upon her by her family and that she would only consider marriage with the right person.

“I regretted my decision to get married because it wasn’t just the right move to make.”

In 2021, the actress welcomed a child via surrogacy, revealing that she chose that route due to miscarriages.

“I chose surrogacy because I had a couple of miscarriages. And I just got tired of trying.

“I don’t have a husband. So, I’m like, I want a child for myself, whether I have a husband or not. “So, what other options would I have? And I wanted it to be my child. “My eggs. Thankfully, my eggs are good. So I did that.”

Source: The Eagle online.

2023 Hajj: We’ve Completed Airlift Of 95,000 Pilgrims To Saudi Arabia – NAHCON Chairman

Editorial staff

June 24, 2023

Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan has announced the completion of the airlift of 95,000 Nigerian Muslims to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj.

The chairman, who spoke to newsmen at the Pilgrims Terminal of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja before the take off of the final flights of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, said: “this year’s operation is about the first time in 10 years when we are going to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a total number of over 95,000.

“It has taken a while for Nigeria pilgrims to get this number.

“And the beauty of it is that despite the number, we are able to airlift all the pilgrims of the states

“And l must say that even those of the tour operators who are challenged, by 2am after midnight today the last of tour pilgrims will leave Lagos.”

Alhaji Hassan said that the Commission is safe to conclude that every of the operation managed or micromanaged by the NAHCON as far as airlift is concerned would be in the Kingdom and be able to be part of Arafah this year.

The Chairman said however that there would a 2pm flight today, June 24, saying: “that 2 o’clock flight will be the final flight. It consists of no pilgrims.

“Just our staff and some stakeholders.

“We decided to make it 2 o’clock in the event that any Nigerian who has visa and proper documents is anywhere in the country.

“All he needs to do is to get to Abuja Saturday morning and once his documents proven that he’s indeed a bonafide registered hajj pilgrim with visa, he would be carried in that aircraft.”

Alhaji Hassan expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Vice President Kashim Shettima, for their support during the difficult times, explaining: “we were frightened.

“There was time when to transfer funds was difficult, processing of visa became difficult.

“All our challenges were possibly overcome because we have the support of Mr. President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and his Vice President, who were with us at all times when there were difficulties.

“On behalf of NAHCON, indeed the hajj family, we are very grateful to them.”

The Chairman also thanked airlines for their patience and accommodation.

Hassan said that the Commission could not pay the airlines in time yet the airlines were resilient and “that is why we have today to thank Allah.”

The Chairman acknowledged the contributions of NAHCON staff and board members towards successes recorded so far.

JAMB Pegs To 140 Points, Minimum Requirement For Varsity Admission

Editorial staff

June 24, 2023

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), has pegged to 140 points, National Minimum Tolerable score for candidates to be admitted in Nigerian universities.

It also pegged the minimum requirements for admission into polytechnics and colleges of education to 100 and 100 respectively.

The JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, at the 2023 Policy Meeting of Tertiary Institutions in Abuja today June 24, said that all institutions must abide by this rule and must not go below the approved points.

He said that every tertiary institution must ensure its own minimum standard, especially as it relates to institutional screening and grading in the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE), which must not be lower than 50 marks.

”All institutions must abide by this minimum point. This means that no institution can go below the standard.

”For the 15 private universities that demand between 120 and 130 as minimum points, note that the 140 is sacrosanct and must not be violated.

“This is because the system put in place will not recognise 139, so ensure you comply.”

Oloyede said that institutions must not collect more than N2,000 as screening fees from candidates.

Professor Oloyede announced that 557,626 candidates from 1.8 million applications have been admitted into tertiary institutions across the country in its 2022 admission processes.

According to him, the 2022 admission process is still ongoing due to opportunities given to some key players in the sector to conduct admissions.

The registrar, who discredited notions from the public that admissions were given by JAMB, said admission depended on the availability of candidates five o’level requirements as UTME was only meant for admission ranking.

”As at June 19, tertiary institutions have admitted 557,626 candidates but as we speak today, the admission is up to 600,000 as we target about 700,000. This is because admission is still ongoing.

”We hear about cut-off marks by JAMB but the truth is that not the best candidate who scored the highest mark in UTME that is the best candidate.

”Admission is based on the five o’level results that a candidate possesses because we only make use of UTME for admission ranking. JAMB has not initiated admissions since 2016,” he said.

Speaking on gaps in admission vacancies and why candidates were not admitted, Oloyede said rigidity of programme choice and mismatch of demand and supply were responsible.

He also listed lack of interest for existing vacancies and trail-candidates (No o’level results or awaiting results) as responsible for admission gaps in the tertiary institutions.

He, therefore, said that the onus lied with institutions to determine the National Minimum Tolerable UTME score, often called the ‘Cut-off marks’.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, David Adejo, urged the stakeholders to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability in the admission processes which determined the fate of millions of students.

Adejo called on admission stakeholders to ensure credibility in the process so that no candidate would be denied admission as well as no deserving candidate was given admission.

”The Federal Ministry of Education have resolved that the fundamental principle of the ministry is openness and this has been provided by JAMB through inclusiveness in the UTME.

”JAMB must ensure sanity and integrity of exams and admission must be based on agreed guidelines to deepen accountability, transparency and fairness.

”Criteria for admissions remained critical by JAMB and all institutions must abide by them as we need to stick to the approved quota for admission,” he said.

In a goodwill message, the Executive Secretary, National Universities commission (NUC), Professor Abubakar Rasheed commended the board on its role in ensuring sanity in the education sector.

Rasheed, represented by the Deputy Executive Secretary of the commission, Chris Maiyaki pledged the commission’s commitment with JAMB to fulfill its mandate.

He said that the policy meeting was a game changer moment for tertiary institutions to take the leading role in the education sector.

Also the Chairman of JAMB Equal Opportunity Group, Professor Peter Okebukola commended the JAMB board for the interest in the education of the visually impaired and other physically challenged candidates.

Okebukola said in the last several years, the board had processed admissions of 2,700 candidates who were visually impaired, those in the correctional centres and the down syndrome candidates.

He added that the Nigerian higher education system was the ‘move and shaker’ of African higher education sector, hence the need to get things right especially in the area of admission processes.

The policy meeting had in attendance representatives from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Vice Chancellors of Universities and Rectors of Polytechnics.

Others are Provosts of Colleges of Education (COE), Registrars and Admission Officers of tertiary institutions, Heads of Federal Agencies, National Youth Service Corp (NYSC) and the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

Source: NAN.

President Tinubu Goes To London On Private Visit, From Paris Summit

Editorial staff

June 24, 2023

President Bola Tinubu has left Paris, France where he participated in the summit for ‘A New Global Financing Pact’ hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and headed for London for a private visit.

A statement by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to President Asiwaju on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, said that the President concluded the Summit in Paris yesterday, June 23 the headed to London.

Alake said that in addition to participation at the Paris event where he represented Nigeria well, President Tinubu also held high-profile sideline meetings with fellow heads of state and government, global business leaders and chief executives of leading multilateral and development finance institutions from around the world.

“The summit afforded the President the opportunity of projecting, on a global stage, his advocacy for widening the fiscal space, economic justice for Africa as the world accelerates the pace of energy transition and the urgency of addressing the pressing issues of poverty and climate change.

“President Tinubu, who was initially scheduled to be back in Abuja on Saturday, will now proceed to London, United Kingdom, for a short private visit.

“The President will be back in the country in time for the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir festival.”

Eid-el-Kabir will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 28, across the Muslim world.

Nigeria’s Covenant University In Ogun, Emerges 7Th Best In Africa

Editorial staff

June 24, 2023

The Times Higher Education (THE) has ranked Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State, among the best ten universities in Africa.

In its inaugural Sub-Saharan Africa University Rankings for 2023, THE placed Covenant University in the seventh position.

While the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa, was listed as the best university on the continent, Covenant University is the only institution in Nigeria featured among the best ten universities in Africa.

Four of the best ten universities are from South Africa, while two institutions are from Tanzania were featured.

Coming in as the second-highest ranked institution is the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, while Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences in Tanzania clinched the third spot.

THE noted that the rankings were based on “access and fairness, Africa impact, teaching skills, student engagement, and resources and finance.”

According to the ranking, Nigeria has the highest number of universities, with 37 entries. South Africa follows closely behind with nine universities, while Ghana and Kenya each claim seven.

Somalia and Uganda, on the other hand, each have five institutions featured in the rankings.

Of the 88 ranked institutions, 59 (67 per cent) are publicly funded, while 21 (24 per cent) operate as private, not-for-profit entities.

Private for-profit universities constitute eight institutions (9 per cent), with seven of the best ten universities falling under the public category.

In terms of overall performance, public universities achieved an average score of 50 in the rankings, charging students a median annual fee of £966.

Private institutions, however, received an average score of 43, with not-for-profit establishments charging £1,922 per year and for-profit universities demanding £3,291 annually.

Source: The Conclaveng.com

Whether You Voted For Me Or Not, I Am Now Your President, Tinubu Tells Diasporan

Editorial staff

June 24, 2023

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made it clear that it did not matter who voted for him to be President and who did not vote for him but that he’s now the President of all Nigerians.

He said: “whether you voted for me, or you didn’t vote for me, campaigned for me, or you didn’t campaign for me. I am your president. “By the grace of God, I have to work on your behalf and make in Nigeria a turning point for prosperity.”

President Tinubu, who addressed Nigerians in Diaspora in Paris, France today, June 23, said: “so your president is here. I danced for it and I have to continue to be prepared for it.

“The challenges are enormous but we have hope.Yes. With perseverance, determination and persistency, we can achieve whatever we desire.

“It is clear to me, I know the road and I’ve been through what many of you have been through outside the country.

“I ‘have been in America, in the UK, I have been a night guard, security, a door man in America. But I have achieved my aim.”

The President insisted that Nigeria belongs to all of us and that our diversity is an asset “if we know how to use it for our prosperity.

“We must promote unity, stability and economic justice for every one of us.”

Tinubu said that for a long time, through smuggling, some countries were bleaching us.

“Courage was missing. sometimes i became an advocate of it. Remove this thing (fuel subsidy), but God gave me the opportunity when I danced around, strategized with my team, we won the presidency.

“And the day I was declared winner, I fell almost sick with joy.”

On subsidy removal, the President said: “we are tired of feedings smugglers, making few people rich and subsidizing the next door neighbors.

“Let us see whether we will survive or not but we are going to survive.”

Tinubu Describes Financial System He Inherited As Rotten

Editorial staff

June 23, 2023

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the financial system he inherited as rotten.

“Then the financial system was rotten. Few people making, with our money and then you yourself, you stopped sending money home to our poor parents.

“Several windows that are gone now, is gone.”

Tinubu, who had an interactive session with Nigerians in Diaspora in Paris, France today, June 23, said that the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), “is in the hands of authorities. Something is being done about that. They will sort themselves out.”

President Tinubu said that it is possible that some people were using the roten financial system to promote insecurity in the country.

“Maybe that is how they are fueling insecurity. We have to look at everything. We won’t change the financial system, it will work for you.”

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