England Schools to Implement Ban on Cellphone Use to Improve Classroom Environment
In a bid to enhance classroom discipline and minimize disruptions, schools across England are set to enforce a ban on cellphone usage during school hours. The Department of Education issued new guidance on Monday, urging schools to adopt consistent measures to curb the prevalent use of mobile devices among students. Citing concerns over online bullying, distractions, and classroom disturbances, the government emphasized the need for a unified approach to address the pervasive issue. According to the UK’s communications regulator, Ofcom, a staggering 97% of children possess their own cellphone by the age of 12, underscoring the urgency of intervention. Last year, UNESCO echoed similar sentiments, advocating for the prohibition of smartphones in educational institutions, citing evidence linking excessive screen time to diminished academic performance and adverse effects on children’s well-being. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan underscored the significance of maintaining a conducive learning environment, labeling cellphones as unwelcome distractions in classrooms. Keegan stated, “We are giving our hard-working teachers the tools to take action to help improve behavior and to allow them to do what they do best – teach.” Echoing Keegan’s sentiments, Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding children’s well-being and educational prospects. Donelan highlighted recent legislative efforts aimed at making the UK the safest online environment for young people, affirming the necessity of balancing technological advancements with educational priorities. The Department of Education revealed that approximately 29% of secondary school students reported instances of unauthorized cellphone usage during lessons, underscoring the pervasive nature of the issue. Schools will be provided with various strategies to enforce the ban, including confiscation of phones upon arrival, implementing secure storage facilities, or outright prohibition on school premises. Highlighting the efficacy of such measures, the Department referenced success stories from schools that have already implemented cellphone bans. One school, in particular, witnessed an immediate positive impact on classroom culture, with students demonstrating increased focus and engagement in learning activities. The move aligns England with other nations that have implemented similar restrictions, including France, Italy, and Portugal, signaling a global trend toward regulating cellphone usage in educational settings. As schools prepare to implement the ban, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential benefits it may yield in fostering a conducive learning environment for students across the country.
AU Takes Action to Protect Donkeys: Bans Donkey Skin Trade
The African Union has implemented a ban on the trade of donkey skins to safeguard Africa’s donkey population and the livelihoods of rural communities. The decision, ratified during the 37th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marks the culmination of efforts to address the alarming decline in donkey numbers across the continent. The ban, proposed by the AU’s Specialized Technical Committee for Agriculture, Rural Development, Water, and Environment, comes in response to the devastating impact of the trade driven by Chinese demand for ejiao, a gelatin derived from boiling down donkey hides for use in traditional Chinese medicine. According to Brooke – Action for Working Horses and Donkeys, an animal welfare group, the demand for ejiao has led to the decimation of donkey populations in China and subsequently fueled export industries in Africa and South America. With approximately two-thirds of the world’s estimated 53 million donkeys residing in Africa, the ban represents a crucial step in curbing the depletion of this vital resource. Donkeys play a fundamental role in the daily lives of many rural communities, serving as a means of transportation and carrying essential goods such as water and food. The ban aims to protect these animals from exploitation while preserving the economic and social fabric of communities dependent on them. The decision has been met with widespread support from conservationists, animal welfare organizations, and local communities alike, who view it as a significant victory for animal rights and sustainable development. While challenges may arise in enforcing the ban and addressing existing trade networks, the African Union’s commitment to protecting donkeys signals a promising future for these resilient creatures and the communities they serve.
ECOWAS President condemns non enforcement of its court judgments
The ECOWAS Commission President, Omar Touray, has condemned the non enforcement of its judgements among the member statess. Touray insisted that the enforcement ofjudgmentss of the Community Court has remained a major issue in the effective delivery of the mandate and responsibility of the judicial institution to the community citizens. Speaking at the ECOWAS Judicial Council meeting, in Abuja Tuesday, Touray noted that the supplementary protocol relating to the ECOWAS Community Court provides a role for the national judicial institutions in the enforcement of these judgements. “I believe that it is time for deliberate action to be taken to address this challenge. “In this era, where instability and insecurity are overwhelming our community, the role of the justice sector is crucial in conflict prevention, through the promotion and defence of the rule of law and human rights. He stressed the need to institutionalise a more regular meeting of the Judicial Council to ensure that the activities of the Court benefit from theregulary review and guidance of the Council. The ECOWAS Commission President noted that the Community Court has become an exemplary institution, which is being emulated by other regional courts in the continent, adding that the Court has witnessed the transition of judges over the years: the recruitment of Judges of high quality and standards to preside over the affairs of the Court. The 2-day ECOWAS judicial council conference on enforcemenot of ECOWAS court judgments was declared open by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. The meetin, which started on Tuesday, and had in attendance, the Chief Justices of member countries of ECOWA, is presided over by Justice Ariwoola, the Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council. In an opening address, Justice Ariwoola recalled that in June 2006, the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS decided to establish a Judicial Council of the Community with the responsibility for recruiting judges for the Community Court and handling disciplinary matters of the judges, including the functioning of the Court. Justice Ariwoola said the ECOWAS Judicial Council, though not as widely known as some other bodies, plays a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law and justice within ourregionn. “The Judicial Council serves as the guardian of the rule of law and the protector of human rights within the region, he said. In addition, the ECOWAS Judicial Council plays a crucial role in the resolution of disputes among member states, ensuring that conflicts are resolved peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law. The objective of this starutory meeting of ECOWas Judicial Council is to review the legal framework of the Community Judicial Council, look deeply on our responsibilitie, and suggest areas for improvement. The ECOWAS Judicial Council plays a crucial role in the resolution of disputes among memberstatess, ensuring that conflicts are resolved in peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law. “It acts as a mediator and facilitator in resolving disputes, promoting dialogue and reconciliation among member states. “By doing so, the Council contributes to the maintenance of peace and stability in the regio,n” Justice Ariwoola stated. The ECOWAS Judicial Council Chairman hinted that the objective of the Statutory meeting of ECOWAS Judicial Council is to review the legal framework of the Community Judicial Council, look deeply on our responsibilities and suggest areas for improvement. “No doubt, the ECOWAS Judicial Council is an indispensable institution in the West African region. “Through its numerous functions, the Council strives to ensure the independence and integrity of the judiciary, protect human rights, interpret regional laws, and resolve disputes among member states. “As we move forward, it is crucial to support and strengthen the ECOWAS Judicial Council, as it continues to play vital role in our collective journey towards a more just, peaceful, and integrated West Africa” Justice Ariwoola stated.
House of Representatives Advances Bill on State Police to Second Reading
In a decisive move aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s internal security, the House of Representatives has taken a significant step by passing for second reading, the State Police Reform bill. Spearheaded by the deputy speaker and backed by 14 other members, the proposed legislation seeks to amend the 1999 constitution to pave the way for the establishment of state police formation. During Tuesday’s plenary session, members of the House engaged in a robust debate on the merits of the bill. Expressing concern over the nation’s current security landscape, Kalu, standing in for Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, emphasized the paramount importance of prioritizing the safety of Nigerian citizens over political considerations. Babajimi Benson underscored the pressing need for a decentralized approach to law enforcement. With Nigeria’s population exceeding 200 million and a police force of fewer than 400,000 officers, Benson argued that the creation of state police forces is imperative to effectively tackle internal security challenges. Despite facing contention since the Seventh National Assembly, the advancement of the bill marks a notable breakthrough in the legislative process. Notably, governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have reiterated their support for state policing, citing it as crucial for addressing the nation’s deteriorating security situation and averting a scenario akin to Venezuela’s. Furthermore, various regional socio-political organizations, including Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Middle Belt Forum, and the Northern Elders’ Forum, have thrown their weight behind the implementation of state police forces. They view it as a pragmatic solution to the escalating security challenges confronting Nigeria. The bill’s referral to the House Committee on Constitution Review signifies a pivotal phase in its journey through the legislative process. As Nigeria grapples with persistent security threats, the advancement of the bill underscores a growing consensus on the imperative of decentralized law enforcement to safeguard the nation and its citizens.
CJN Ariwoola Declares ECOWAS Judicial Council Conference Open
Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola has declared open a 2-day Statutory Meeting of the ECOWAS judicial council conference on enforcement of ECOWAS court judgments. The meeting, which started on Tuesday and has in attendance, the Chief Justices of member countries of the ECOWAS, is holding at the conference hall of the National Judicial Council Abuja. Justice Ariwoola, the Chairman of the ECOWAS Judicial Council, is presiding over the meeting. In an opening address, Justice Ariwoola said the ECOWAS Judicial Council plays a crucial role in the resolution of disputes among member States, ensuring that conflicts are resolved in peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law. “It acts as a mediator and facilitator in resolving disputes, promoting dialogue and reconciliation among member states. “By doing so, the Council contributes to the maintenance of peace and stability in the region,” Justice Ariwoola stated. The ECOWAS Judicial Council Chairman hinted that the objective of the Statutory meeting of ECOWAS Judicial Council is to review the legal framework of the Community Judicial Council, look deeply on our responsibilities and suggest areas for improvement. “No doubt, the ECOWAS Judicial Council is an indispensable institution in the West African region. “Through its numerous functions, the Council strives to ensure the independence and integrity of the judiciary, protect human rights, interpret regional laws, and resolve disputes among member states. “As we move forward, it is crucial to support and strengthen the ECOWAS Judicial Council, as it continues to play vital role in our collective journey towards a more just, peaceful, and integrated West Africa” Justice Ariwoola stated.
Nigerian Red Cross Raises Alarm Over Escalating Hunger Crisis
The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has issued a dire warning regarding the deepening hunger crisis in Nigeria, urging immediate action to address the escalating situation. Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Kende, Secretary General of the NRCS, delivered the stark message during a press briefing held in Abuja yesterday. Dr. Kende expressed grave concern over the worsening food insecurity gripping the nation, attributing it to factors such as hyperinflation fueled by surging fuel prices. He revealed that an estimated 26.5 million Nigerians, including vulnerable groups such as women and children, are currently grappling with acute hunger and require urgent assistance to avert further suffering and loss of life. The announcement comes amidst mounting protests against food shortages and soaring living costs, with demonstrations spreading to cities like Ibadan, where protesters defied police warnings to demand action from the government. At the launch of a partnership between the Red Cross and Ecobank aimed at mobilizing local resources for the hunger crisis appeal, Dr. Kende underscored the precarious situation faced by vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. He disclosed alarming statistics, revealing that nearly 4.41 million children and 585,000 mothers are confronting acute malnutrition, with approximately 1,000 Nigerian children succumbing to malnutrition-related causes daily. Dr. Kende emphasized the multifaceted nature of the crisis, citing factors such as changing weather patterns, heightened internal conflicts, and the enduring impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Urging swift action, he stated, “The time to act is now.” The partnership with Ecobank aims to mobilize funds locally to support the hunger crisis appeal and deliver essential relief to affected communities. Dr. Kende outlined various initiatives, including the provision of multipurpose cash grants for emergency relief and recovery, nutritional support for pregnant and lactating mothers, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions to mitigate disease prevalence. In conclusion, Dr. Kende called upon individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite in supporting government efforts to address the crisis. He underscored the pivotal role that corporate entities like Ecobank Nigeria can play in contributing to the nation’s welfare. The Nigerian Red Cross, in collaboration with partners and volunteers across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, stands poised to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of communities hardest hit by acute hunger.
German Football Legend Andreas Brehme, Scorer of Iconic 1990 World Cup Winning Goal, Passes Away at 63
Andreas Brehme, the renowned German footballer who etched his name into history by scoring the decisive goal in the 1990 World Cup final, has tragically passed away at the age of 63. Brehme’s partner, Susanne Schaefer, confirmed the devastating news on behalf of the family, stating that he succumbed to a sudden heart attack overnight. “It is with deep sadness that I announce on behalf of the family that my partner, Andreas Brehme, passed away suddenly overnight following a cardiac arrest. We ask that you respect our privacy at this difficult time and refrain from asking questions,” Ms. Schaefer said in a statement released on Tuesday. Hailing from Hamburg, Brehme earned 86 caps for the German national team throughout his illustrious career. His memorable penalty kick in the 1990 final in Rome, which secured victory over Diego Maradona’s Argentina, propelled Germany to its third World Cup title. Despite experiencing heartbreak in the 1986 final against Argentina, Brehme’s contributions to German football were undeniable. He achieved success at the club level as well, notably winning the Serie A with Inter Milan in 1989 and the UEFA Cup in 1991. Brehme’s accolades extended to the Bundesliga, where he clinched titles with both Bayern Munich and Kaiserslautern. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching roles at various clubs, including Kaiserslautern and Unterhaching. The news of Brehme’s passing comes just weeks after the football world mourned the loss of another German icon, Franz Beckenbauer, who coached the national team during the 1986 and 1990 World Cups following his illustrious playing career. Andreas Brehme’s legacy as a football legend and his unforgettable contributions to the sport will continue to be celebrated and cherished by fans around the world.
FG commences payment of ASUU’s withheld salaries
The Federal Government has commenced the payment of the withheld salaries of academics under the aegis of the Academic Staff Union of Universities. Multiple sources in the academic sector confirmed the development to our correspondent in Abuja on Monday. The chairperson, ASUU at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Prof. Gbolahan Bolarin, who confirmed the development on the record, said, “Yes, it is true. Payment has started rolling in.” President Bola Tinubu Tinubu had in October 2023 approved the release of four of the eight months’ ASUU withheld salaries of the workers. The salaries were withheld when the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari invoked a ‘No Work, No Pay policy’ against some university-based unions that embarked on a strike that lasted eight months in 2022. The Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, recently said the government has increased the university workers’ salaries by 35 per cent. The minister also said the government has granted autonomy to the universities by removing them from the Integrated Payment and Payroll Information System . He added that the universities no longer need a waiver to recruit and fill their vacancies. These resolutions were reached through informal consultations with the unions based in the tertiary institutions, Mamman said.
Comedian Seyi Law Writes Open Letter To Tinubu Over Economic Hardship
Nigerian comedian Seyi Law has taken to X formerly Twitter to write an open letter to president Tinubu over the lingering economic challenges. In the letter, Seyi said even though he is an ardent supporter of the president, he won’t hesitate to criticize him when necessary. He wrote: “I know you’re not new to the complexity of governance in Nigeria, and I truly hope you’re feeling the pulse of the nation at this point in time. I am one of your ardent supporters, and I won’t hesitate to be one of your critics when necessary. “Sir, may I cast your mind back to 2012 when your party was able to convince Nigerians who had just had a beautiful yuletide celebration to take over the street in protest of the removal of subsidy on fuel. It was such a turning point for Jonathan’s administration and ushered in President Muhammadu Buhari. “It might interest you to know that I wasn’t one of the Nigerians convinced then to vote Buhari. Can you now imagine what great protest it would be for Nigerians to troop into the streets because of hunger, insecurity and inability to afford basic amenities?. I don’t want to imagine it and talk more of joining them. “Your Excellency, good intentions are mere intentions without proper implementations. There are certain things that I expected will be quickly fixed to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal. I am yet to see a fully implemented plan in the short term. “I used Moses and the Israelites’ journey from Egypt as an analogy in one of my write-ups, and it wasn’t a mistake. It was deliberate as you probably know that the Israelites got to a point and began to complain, preferring to go back to slavery in Egypt rather than moving forward. They got tired of Manna, and now Nigerians are asking, “Where is our manna for this time?” I waited for almost 2 years to join a protest against the former President Buhari’s administration because I believe that at least every new administration needs a minimum of one and a half years to stabilise. For every tick and tock on the clock, time is running on your administration. “Mr. President, it will be sad to lose the goodwill of over 8.9 million people who voted you because of the incompetence of the people in your cabinet. I believe at the mark of one year, there should be an appraisal of everyone, and those found wanting must go. Please, Sir, we are waiting patiently on the PCNG buses initiative and soft measures on food availability and affordability. “The issue of electricity is deeply concerning. We need members of your cabinet to communicate more effectively with visible action plans. Nigerians followed the continuous updates from the minister of interior, the actions of Governor Wike, and the progress of minister Bosun Tijani. We are therefore forced to ask what the others are doing because we don’t want a situation where someone who served with you will enjoy the liberty of going on the media to proffer solutions where he or she one’s failed. “While I support your Excellency, I will keep asking the tough questions and not stop until you achieve success for the greater good of the nation. This nation must and should be better for all”.
Edo APC youths take over party secretariat over Guber primary
Enraged young individuals and women have seized control of the All Progressives Congress secretariat in Benin, Edo State. They are demanding the removal of the state executives, led by acting Chairman Jarret Tenebe, due to alleged irregularities in Saturday’s governorship primary election, which resulted in three declared winners. The protestors, led by Tony Adun (Kabaka), forcibly entered the offices, taking out furniture, rice bags, and other items. They declare their intent to occupy the premises for seven days, expressing dissatisfaction with the officials’ conduct during the primary and insisting on the dissolution of the executive committee. Adun emphasized their support for Dennis Idahosa and urged party members to back his candidacy in the upcoming governorship election. Adun said, “It is clear that the party exco in the state are no longer working on the interest of the party so it is time for them to leave. “We are here in solidarity with Dennis Idahosa who the party has nominated. We call on party members to back Idahosa’s candidacy in the governorship election in September. “As you can see, we are here in large numbers, youths and women, to show our displeasure over the way the exco handled the election.”