Energy Challenge: Tinubu appoints Team to establish “Evergreen City”

In his determination to walk the talk President Bola Tinubu has given the global clamour for energy diversification a boost by assigning energy consultants, INFRACORP the duty of developing Nigeria’s pioneer alternative energy city; the “EvergreenCity.” Fleshing up the details on this novel energy concept, Presidential media aid, Ajuri Ngelale stated that InfraCorp, owned by former General Electric top gun, Lazarus Angbazo shall be the “Lead Arranger and Developer of the EvergreenCity”. President Tinubu also approved the establishment of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen, into which he has empanelled a select team of alternative energy experts that shall ensure the successful implementation of the project. In a press statement, Chief Ngelale disclosed that the steering committee shall be chaired by the Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, while the Secretariat shall be headed by Lolade Abiola of the UN SE4ALL Ngelale listed thirteen other green energy gurus as members of the steering committee. Promiment among them is Mr. Suleiman Yusuf, Managing Director and CEO of Blue Camel Energy, a leading player in Nigeria’s green energy ecosystem. Other members of the committee are Lazarus Angbazo (CEO, InfraCorp), Salisu Dahiru (CEO, NCCC), Aminu Umar-Sadiq (CEO, NSIA), Khalil Halilu (CEO, NASENI), Abba Abubabkar Aliyu (CEO, REA), Fatima Shinkafi (CEO, SMDF), Uzoma Nwagba (CEO, CrediCorp), Bala Bello (Deputy Governor, CBN), Teni Majekodunmi (NCCC), Nana Maidugu (NSIA), Michael Ivenso (NCCC), and Chidi Ajaere (Jet EV). President Tinubu also approved the terms of reference for the work of the Committee to include: (1) Selection of partners/consultants to undertake critical development activities, including project design, environmental impact assessments, feasibility studies, financial modelling, and market engagement. (2) Raising private funding for the development of the city and constituent projects. (3) Coordinating with partners, development institutions, and other providers of capital and technical assistance. (4) Reporting to the Supervisory Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen

FG Reveals First Beneficiaries Of Student Loan Scheme

The Federal Government has announced that federal institutions will be the initial beneficiaries of the student loan scheme, which is set to commence next week. According to reports, President Bola Tinubu’s administration revealed that the scheme would begin on May 24th. Providing an update on this initiative, Akintunde Swayerr, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, stated that the loan distribution will occur in phases. During an interview with Arise Television on Friday, Swayerr confirmed that the loan application portal would indeed open on May 24th, as previously announced. Swayerr also mentioned that the government has organised a sensitization campaign to educate Nigerians on the workings of the scheme. He emphasised that the student loan scheme aims to bridge the financing gap for Nigerian students, enhance their resourcefulness, and ultimately contribute to the country’s development. “On the 3rd of April 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed into law a monumental act that seeks to bridge the financing gap for applicants who want to get a higher education that is tertiary level and who want to get vocational training to get proper qualifications that enable them to be more marketable and useful to the Nigerian society. “The fund covers 100 per cent of all the fees of tertiary institutions. There’s also upkeep for the student.” Swayerr noted that this plan will be rolled out in schemes and the first being the public institutions, because of the large number of students in that sector requiring financial aid. “We’re going to roll this plan out in phases. The first phase will be with federal institutions, then to others. “It’s going to be the public sector at the beginning because that’s where we find the bulk of students that perhaps need the financing cover and are most vulnerable. “We have a system that hopefully makes this have a national spread and some degree of equal opportunity for those who have the desire, capacity, and eligibility to engage in this scheme,” he stated. While explaining the modalities of the online application, he said, “We’re going to open the portal for applicants on the 24th of May, so those who want to apply can. “It doesn’t mean they get it that day; it just means they can apply and begin to understand the process, and then after that, there will be an evaluation for those who have qualified for the loan, and then an approval will be given for those who qualified. “The application allows them to create an individual account where they can go online to see their loan status. “Then they get a letter within 30 days telling them whether they are eligible or not; if they are eligible, we will disburse the loan directly to the institution when the course begins.” Further speaking on the process of evaluation of the application, he said, “The application is open to everyone, we’ll do an evaluation, and whatever data we have that helps us determine the neediest, we’ll use it to make judgements. “When applications begin to come in, we will turn the information into intelligence and use the intelligence for decision-making. “It is an online IT application and will include their JAMB number, NIN, BVN, admission number, and matriculation number. “The BVN is that we’ll be able to make some determination as to how much money they have in their accounts; there’s also a declaration that they will state how much of a need they have. It’s a loan and not a grant.” The loan scheme states that the student must repay the loan two years after completing National Youth Service, but due to the high rate of youth unemployment, he clarified the provisions made. “It’s 2 years after NYSC for repayment. In the event that you find yourself 2 years after NYSC and you don’t have a job, you can’t oblige people to pay for loans when they’re not working. This law does not seek to criminalise people. We seek to encourage people to take the loan. “In c

FG appoints the governing council for universities, others

In a move seen as aimed at staving off another disruption of academic activities, the federal government has approved the constitution of governing councils for federal tertiary institutions, comprising universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. Recall that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) threatened to call its members out on strike over the failure of government to reconstitute the governing councils of public universities almost a year after most of them were prematurely disbanded. ASUU had on Tuesday given the government a two-week ultimatum to reconstitute the governing councils of federal universities. In a circular signed by permanent secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, as sighted by Nigerian Anchor, the Federal Government has now appointed chairmen and members of the governing council for Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education. The inauguration and retreat for the Governing Councils will take place on Thursday, 30th, and Friday, 31st May, 2024, at the National Universities Commission, Abuja.

What Tinubu Discussed With Senegalese President, Faye 

The details of the meeting between President Bola Tinubu and his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Faye have emerged. Recall that the Senegal President arrived in Nigeria on Thursday and met with President Tinuhu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. A statement issued by the presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, quoted President Tinubu saying that countries in West Africa must unite to defeat the scourge of terrorism, human trafficking, and poverty in the region. He urged leaders in the region to make the people the focal point of governance, noting that the essence of democracy is lost when citizens are not enjoying dividends. The president emphasised that democratic values and constitutional order are sacrosanct and must be protected. He added that critical institutions like the judiciary must be respected and obeyed for the sustenance of democracy. He said: “Constitutional democracy is what Senegal proved to the rest of the world and Africa. It is a joy to have you here and to meet the hope and aspirations of our youths. You fit in perfectly well. “A critical time it is in the history of constitutional democracy, particularly in West Africa. What you have embarked upon, a struggle couched in freedom, is remarkable.” The president described Nigeria and Senegal as brotherly nations, recounting both countries’ long history of cooperation. He added: “We are brothers. We have shared an interest in democracy. To make democracy sustainable in the interest of our people, we definitely must work hard. “I am glad that you are a shining example of patience, perseverance, and commitment to democratic values. “We must partner to make our people the focus of our democratic commitment. Your belief in the sovereignty of Africa is shared by all of us. “But how can we work for our people and make them the focus of our democracy if we are violating the rule of law and promoting an unconstitutional takeover of government? “As the chairman of ECOWAS, I am inviting you to collaborate and meet those other brothers. To persuade them to come back to the fold. “We will continue to work together. We share good backgrounds, and we will continue to embrace and promote democratic governance. “We must be able to partner and build the freedom we believe in – in economic growth, development, and other spheres of governance. It is left for us to provide assurance to our people and walk our talk. “We must defeat human trafficking; we must defeat terrorism, banditry, and poverty in our society. That must be our focus and commitment.” Speaking during the meeting, Faye acknowledged Nigeria and Senegal’s shared values and challenges, noting that both nations have always had good relations since the 1960s. He called for the reactivation of the Nigeria-Senegal joint commission to strengthen bilateral relations across the areas of diplomacy, trade, and other spheres. On ECOWAS, Faye said with Tinubu’s wisdom and experience, relations among member states can be strengthened for the advancement of the community. He said: “The good relations we have and the relations between our private sectors should be beneficial to our countries. “ECOWAS is the beacon of successful regional integration in Africa and globally. It is something we owe to the founding fathers of the community. “I have no doubt that you want to continue this legacy of integration. The union is going through a rough patch, but not everything is lost. “I know I can rely on your wisdom and experience, as the leader of this great African nation. “Your wisdom and your democratic values should be an asset to that vision, and my youth and determination can also be an asset. “If we come together, with all these assets and advantages, I am convinced we can open a window of opportunity to discuss. “United, we are stronger. Faced with common challenges, such as human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and all other challenges, we need to show resolve to confront these challenges.

Tinubu Approves ₦90 Billion To Subsidise Cost Of 2024 Hajj

President Bola Tinubu has approved N90 billion to subsidise the cost of the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage for citizens. Vice President Kashim Shettima made this known on Wednesday at the inauguration of the 2024 National Hajj operation, held at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi, the Kebbi State capital. He said the Federal Government had a major issue in announcing the final hajj fare for the 2024 Muslim pilgrimage due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Shettima added that the government carefully selected men of integrity and records of selfless dedication to manage the affairs of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria in the interest of Nigerian pilgrims. He said: “You may recall that this year, we had a major challenge in announcing the final hajj fare for the 2024 Muslim pilgrimage due to fluctuation in foreign exchange rates. “President Bola Tinubu also works round the clock to control the downward spiral of our local currency to bring relief to our pilgrims and other Nigerians. “A move that eventually succeeded in lowering the fare. The President approved the release of N90 billion to subsidize the cost of pilgrimage for this year’s hajj. “Due to this high regard, the government took time to carefully select men of integrity with administrative acumen and records of selfless dedication to manage the affairs of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria in the interest of Nigerian pilgrims. “Government at the highest level monitors all arrangements meant for the well-being of our pilgrims both in Saudi Arabia and within the country before embarking on the journey. “We are aware of the provision put in place for the safety, security and comfort of the Nigerian contingent to the 2024 hajj of our pilgrims. “Indeed, it is through our collective prayers and individual contributions that our country will prosper.” Recall that Nigerian Muslim pilgrims who had earlier paid for a trip to Saudi Arabia for the 2024 Hajj demanded a refund after the country’s Hajj Commission instructed them to pay another N1.9 million in March. The commission had increased the fare for this year’s pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia by N1,918,032.91 while setting a deadline of March 28, 2024.

Abuja property: Court rules in Abacha family/FG legal battle, June 27

The Federal High Court, Abuja, will on June 27, deliver judgment in a suit by the family of the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha challenging the revocation of the property of the former Military ruler in the Maitama District of Abuja. The suit was instituted before Justice Peter Lifu by wife of the late General Abacha, Hajia Maryam Abacha and her eldest surviving son, Mohammed Sani Abacha. The suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/463/2016, have the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Federal Capital Development Authority FCDA, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria and Salamed Ventures Limited as 1st to 4th defendants respectively. The plaintiff, through her council, Dr Reuben Okpanachi Atabo SAN, wants the court to nullify and set aside the purported revocation of the Certificate of Occupancy(CoO) of the property of the late General Sani Abacha located in the Maitama District. The Certificate of Occupancy marked FCT/ABUKN 2478 covering plot 3119 issued on June 25, 1993 was said by the family to have been illegally and unlawfully revoked by the defendants. In their statement of claims, the Abacha family said that the FCT under Nasir El-Rufai had instructed them to submit the Certificate of Occupancy in their possession for re-certification. They claimed that the 2nd plaintiff, Mohammed Sani Abacha promptly complied with the directive by delivering the Certificate of Occupancy to the FCDA and acknowledgement copy issued to him. While waiting for a new Certificate of Occupancy to be issued to them, plaintiffs asserted that Mohammed Abacha received a letter on February 3, 2006 notifying them that the Certificate of Occupancy had been revoked without any reason adduced in the letter. Besides the failure to give any reason for the revocation, the Abacha family alleged that adequate compensation was not paid as required by law. The family therefore asked the Judge to declare as unconstitutional, unlawful, illegal, null and void and of no effect, the purported revocation of the property. They sought order of the Court setting aside the purported revocation and holding that their Certificate of Occupancy is valid and subsisting having been revoked without payment of adequate compensation. According to them, the Certificate of Occupancy issued to the late Head of State was maliciously revoked without legal basis or justification The plaintiffs asked for an order of injunction prohibiting the defendants from taking any further step on the disputed revocation. Similarly, the prayed Justice Lifu to award N500M as damages to be paid to them by the four defendants. Meanwhile, counsel to the defendants, Dr James Ogwu Onoja SAN, in their counter affidavits and preliminary objections asked for outright dismissal of the suit. Among other reasons, the defendants claimed that the suit at the time it was instituted had become statute barred having not been filed within time allowed by law. Although, some of the defendants were not in court at Wednesday’s proceedings, Justice Lifu invoked the rule of the Court in adopting their processes already filed.

Labour Rejects N45,000 Minimum Wage

The organized labour has rejected the Federal Government’s offer of N45,000 as the national minimum wage. They stormed out of the minimum wage committee meeting on Wednesday. Recall that the organized labour had made a demand of N615,000 as the new minimum wage and had given the government up till May 31 to conclude negotiations on new living wage. The Tripartite Committee on New National Minimum Wage resumed negotiations on Wednesday. Representatives of the organized labour comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, were enraged over the government offer. Professor Theophilus Ndubuaku, who is one of the representatives of the NLC, said, “we asked whether the N45,000 is for transport, food, clothing, housing or for what. “So we just told them that since they are not serious, we better just leave, so we stormed out of the place.” He said that the government offer was presented to them by the Permanent Secretary, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Office.

Atiku criticizes Tinubu govt’s plan to utilize pension funds for infrastructure projects

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced strong opposition to the Federal Government’s proposal to unlock N20 trillion from the nation’s pension funds and other sources for critical infrastructure projects. Atiku was reacting to recent remarks made by Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. Edun had said the Bola Tinubu-led government will unlock N20 trillion from the nation’s pension funds and other funds to finance critical infrastructure projects across the country. According to Atiku, the lack of transparency surrounding the initiative is alarming, adding that specific details regarding the utilization of pension funds, such as the percentage to be withdrawn, were not disclosed. He said: “He (Edun) provided no useful details, such as the percentage of the funds to be mopped up from the Pension Funds, for example. Even at that, this move must be halted immediately! “It is a misguided initiative that could lead to disastrous consequences on the lives of Nigeria’s hardworking men and women who toiled and saved and who now survive on their pensions having retired from service. “It is another attempt to perpetrate illegality by the Federal Government. The government must be cautioned to act strictly within the provisions of the Pension Reform Act of 2014 (PRA 2014), along with the revised Regulation on Investment of Pension Assets issued by the National Pension Commission (PenCom). “In particular, the Federal Government must not act contrary to the provisions of the extant Regulation on investment limits to wit: Pension Funds can invest no more than 5% of total pension funds’ assets in infrastructure investments. “I note that as of December 2023, total pension funds assets were approximately N18 Trillion, of which 75% of these are investments in FGN Securities. “There is NO free Pension Funds that is more than 5% of the total value of the nation’s pension fund for Mr. Edun to fiddle with. There are no easy ways for Mr. Edun to address the challenges of funding infrastructure development in Nigeria. He can’t cut corners. “He must introduce the necessary reforms to restore investor confidence in the Nigerian economy and to leverage private resources, skills, and technology.”

BREAKING: Tinubu, Shettima to pay tolls at airports

President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima will now henceforth pay the required fees at tollgates whenever they use the nation’s airports. This came as the the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting he presided over at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Tuesday approved that there should be no more exemption granted to users of the airports from paying tollgate fees. The approval was made following a memorandum presented to the council by the minister of aviation, Festus Keyamo, who argued that the government was losing over 82% of the revenue it should have earned from the e-tags that provide access to the tollgates.   He explained that the memoranda had initially prescribed an exemption for only the president and the vice president before Tinubu overruled and directed that both of them should be included among those that must pay. Keyamo, who disclosed this at the post-FEC media briefing, regretted that Very Important Persons (VIPs) with money who should pay are those that have not been paying, noting that only poor people had been charged for using the tollgates. He said this must now stop.

Tinubu presides over FEC meeting, swears in NPC Commissioners

President Bola Tinubu has sworn in two more commissioners of the National Population Commission. Mr. Fasuwa Johnson and Dr. Amid Tadese Raheem from Ogun and Osun States respectively took the oath of office at 12:15 pm at the Council Chamber of the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, after their abridged citations were read. Monday’s ceremony comes three months after Tinubu, on February 13, asked the senate to confirm Raheem as a commissioner of the NPC. The Senate also confirmed Johnson on March 6. On November 8, 2023, Tinubu had appointed 20 federal commissioners in the NPC with nine of them reappointed for a second term in office. He swore 17 of them into office on March 14. Johnson was born in 1973 in Ododeyo, in the Ijebu North East area of Ogun State, where he had his primary and secondary education. He holds a Master of Science in Geography in 2004 and a Master in Business Administration in 2009 from the University of Ibadan and Ladoke Akintola University, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, respectively. He was elected as a member of the Ogun State House of Assembly in 2019 representing Ijebu North East till June 2023 during which he was the Chairman of the House Committee on Works and Infrastructure among other positions. Raheem was born on December 12, 1964, in Iwo, Osun State. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Public Administration from the same university. He had served as Commissioner for Water Resources & Energy in Osun State and was elected member of the Osun State House of Assembly, becoming its first Chief Whip in 1992. Until his nomination, Raheem was the Head of the Department of Public Administration at Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State.