Tinubu Creates New Ministry
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday announced the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development. The President announced while inaugurating the Renewed Hope Livestock Reform Implementation Committee, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. But President Tinubu did not mention the name of the Minister for the new ministry as it is expected that he has to forward the name to the Senate for screening and confirmation if it’s a new nominee. Present at the Inauguration were the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila amongst cabinet members. Recall that President Tinubu on 15th September 2023, approved the establishment of the Presidential Committee dedicated to the reform of the livestock industry and the provision of long-term solutions to recurring clashes between herders and farmers in the country.
Beware of German-based Human Trafficking Syndicate
Vice Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, students, guardians and members of the unsuspecting public have been warned to beware of a German-based human trafficking syndicate that is operating under the guise of offering internship opportunities to lure the youth into a human trafficking net in Europe. In a circular, the National Universities Commission (NUC) today, drew the attention of Vice Chancellors to the existence of the syndicate which is based in Germany and specializes in luring unsuspecting students from third world countries to Germany and other European countries under the guise of offering them internship opportunities in industries and allied institutions. In a circular, which was signed by Mr. John Mairafi Ahmadu, a director in the Executive Secretary’s office at the NUC, the existence of the syndicate was busted by a careful investigation by Indonesian Police. It was stated in the circular that the discovery by the Indonesian police was shared with the Office of the Secretary General of the Federation (OSGF) which communicated the development to the NUC with the clear instruction that the development should be brought to the attention of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian universities for escalation to the Nigerian public.
Breaking: NUPENG, PENGASSAN write Tinubu, seek probe of alleged IOCs against Dangote Refinery
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG and its Petroleum and Natural and Senior Staff Association, PENGASSAN, have written to President Bola Tinubu, demanding a high powered investigation into the allegation that the International Oil Companies, IOCs, are plotting to undermine and destabilize the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals. In a written through the Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, dated July 1, 2024, the oil workers demanded among others, that the findings of such investigation must be made public to ensure transparency and maintain public trust. The letter signed by the NUPENG’s General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale and his PENGASSAN’s counterpart, Lumumba Okugbawa, read “The leadership and members of our great Union and Association profoundly appreciate your commitment and dedication to restoring the economic growth and prosperity of our dear Nation and we are also fuly mobilized and committed to supporting al your laudable thoughts and hard decisions towards these lofty goals. “Unfortunately, we are deeply concerned and shocked by the recent unusual allegations by the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company of a deliberate plot by some International Oil Companies (IOCs) to frustrate their business efforts and continued existence. “These sabotaging actions reportedly include denying the Refinery crude oil supply and artificially inflating market prices of the crude oil to the Company, thereby forcing Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals Company to source crude oil from other countries, even as far as the United States of America with attendant high operating costs and logistics. “The Dangote Refinery is not only a critical National asset but also a beacon of hope for our energy security, economic growth, and employment opportunities. The economic benefits of a Local Refinery with such capacity as the Dangote’s to Nigeria, can never be overstated. “This is why for several decades now, NUPENG and PENGASSAN have campaigned vigorously that Nigeria should make ti a pre-requisite condition that Companies that want to benefit from JVC arrangements with Nigeria, to set up a Refinery/Petrochemical Company ni Nigeria. “Unfortunately, no sucessive Governments summoned enough political and patriotic courage to take that logical and pragmatic policy direction. The survival of companies that have braved ti up and invested hugely ni refining crude ni Nigeria thus saving our Nation from wasteful product importations that profit other countries and cost us forex, should be of great interest to us as a Nation because of the enormous economic benefits involved. “Our demands are as follows: Immediate Investigation: The Federal Government should set up an independent panel ot investigate the claims of sabotage by some International Oli Companies. This investigation should be compreensive and transparent, ensuring that al parties involved are held accountable. “Public Disclosure: The findings of this investigation must be made public ot ensure transparency and maintain public trust. Nigerians deserve to know the truth about the actions of these International Oil Companies and the impact on our National interests. “Legal Action: Should the allegations be substantiated, we expect the Government to take decisive legal action against the entities involved. This must include sanctions, penalties, and any other measures necessary to deter future acts of economic sabotage. “Support for Dangote Refinery: The Government should provide al necessary support to ensure the uninterrupted commencement and operation of the Dangote Refinery. This includes ensuring security and stability around the Refinery’s operations. “Your Excellency Sir, we trust your courage and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project and we believe that the Presidency wil take decisive action to safeguard the Dangote Refinery and ensure its successful operation for the benefit of our Nation.
Labour insists N250,000 as minimum wage
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has unequivocally maintained its stance on the proposed ₦250,000 minimum wage, resisting the Federal Government’s offer of ₦62,000. The declaration was made by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, at an award ceremony in Kano, highlighting the union’s commitment to advocating for the interests of Nigerian workers. Despite several meetings aimed at resolving the wage dispute, no agreement has been reached, with both the government and the NLC holding their grounds. The impasse continues even after the expiration of the existing minimum wage in April 2024, which has heightened tensions between the parties involved. During his speech, delivered by NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, Ajaero voiced concerns over the current economic challenges and escalating inflation rates, which he argued have severely impacted the living standards of workers. “The economic reality and worsening inflation could no longer sustain Nigerian workers,” Ajaero stated, emphasizing the urgent need for a wage that ensures a dignified life for all labourers.
BREAKING! Pro- Wike Lawmakers Give Fubara 7 Days To Re-Present 2024 Budget
The Rivers State House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule has issued a 7-day ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to re-present the 2024 budget to the House. The order follows the first sitting of the pro-Wike House on Monday after some months. The other House led by Victor Oko-Jumbo is also holding a parallel sitting. Fubara had earlier presented the budget to the House loyal to him when his current Chief of Staff Edison Ehie presided as the Speaker. Ehie and the other pro-Fubara lawmakers passed the budget estimates, and the governor signed the bill into law. He stated that it is aimed at promoting economic development, inclusive growth, and addressing socio-economic inequality in the state. Details later…
Kidnapped Zamfara Catholic priest in Zamfara released after two weeks
The Parish Priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church Damba, Gusau, Zamfara State, Mikah Suleiman has regained his freedom from bandits who kidnapped him two weeks ago. Suleiman’s release was announced in a statement on Sunday, July 7, 2024, by the Director of Communications, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Pascal Salifu. The statement read, “We are overjoyed to announce the safe release of Fr Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped on 22/06/2024. ‘We extend our heartfelt gratitude to God for His protection and to everyone who offered prayers and support during this challenging time. “Our thanks also go to the authorities and all involved in securing Fr Mikah’s release. He is currently receiving the necessary care and support.” Salifu urged people to “continue to keep him in your prayers as he begins his recovery.” The state Police Public Relations Officer, Yazid Abubakar confirmed the priest’s abduction on Saturday, saying, “Yes, the incident happened early hour of today, the Reverend Father was kidnapped in his residence. We were not informed when the incident happened but what I gathered was that the man stays alone not in the church. “We have deployed our tactical squad to go after the kidnappers with the aim of rescuing the victim unhurt.” More so, the acting Chancellor of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Nuhu Iliya had urged the Christian faithful to pray for the “quick and safe release” of the priest. “We equally commend him to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Priests, for his speedy release from the hands of his abductors,” Iliya said.
76 Countries Including Nigeria Sign Controversial Samoa Agreement (Full List)
The Samoa agreement focuses on economic development, security, environment, migration, mobility, and climate change other areas include investment opportunities, sustainable development, and mutually beneficial cooperation, among others. The Samoa agreement has been signed by 79 countries across the world to address various aspects of the economy. The objective of the Samoa agreement is to serve as the legal framework for EU relations with these 79 countries. These include 48 African, 16 Caribbean, and 15 Pacific countries. The agreement covers 2 billion people and aims to strengthen the capacity of the EU and the ACP (African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries) to address global challenges together. Here are the full list of countries to benefit from the Samoa Agreement: African Countries: 1. Algeria 2. Angola 3. Benin 4. Botswana 5. Burkina Faso 6. Burundi 7. Cameroon 8. Cape Verde 9. Central African Republic 10. Chad 11. Comoros 12. Congo 13. Côte d’Ivoire 14.Democratic Republic of the Congo 15. Djibouti 16. Egypt 17. Equatorial Guinea 18. Eritrea 19. Eswatini 20. Ethiopia 21. Gabon 22. Gambia 23. Ghana 24. Guinea 25. Guinea-Bissau 26. Kenya 27. Lesotho 28. Liberia 29. Libya 30. Madagascar 31. Malawi 32. Mali 33. Mauritania 34. Mauritius 35. Morocco 36. Mozambique 37. Namibia 38. Niger 39. Nigeria 40. Republic of the Congo 41. Rwanda 42.São Tomé and Principe 43. Senegal 44. Seychelles 45. Sierra Leone 46. Somalia 47. South Africa 48. South Sudan 49. Sudan 50. Tanzania 51.Togo 52. Tunisia 53. Uganda 54. Zambia 55. Zimbabwe Caribbean Countries: 1. Antigua and Barbuda 2. The Bahamas 3. Barbados 4. Belize 5. Dominica 6. Dominican Republic 7. Grenada 8. Guyana 9. Haiti 10. Jamaica 11. Saint Kitts and Nevis 12. Saint Lucia 13. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 14. Suriname 15. Trinidad and Tobago Pacific Countries: 1. Cook Islands 2. Fiji 3. Kiribati 4. Marshall Islands 5. Micronesia 6. Nauru 7. Niue 8. Palau 9. Papua New Guinea 10. Samoa 11. Solomon Islands 12. Tonga 13. Tuvalu 14. Vanuatu
27-Year-Old Steel Company Worker Dies in Ogun Factory Incident
Yahaya Ibrahim, a 27-year-old worker at KAM Steel Integrated Company, tragically lost his life at the factory located along the Sagamu-Ogijo Expressway in Ogun State. Reports say that the fatal incident occurred when Ibrahim slipped and fell onto an engine roller while working early Sunday morning, around 4:50 am. The Ogun State Police Command’s spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, confirmed the accident, noting that Ibrahim’s body has been transferred to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital morgue in Sagamu. Police officers responded to the scene following a distress call and identified the event as an industrial accident.
Abuja Fuel Queues Caused by Logistic Challenge -IPMAN
The President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Migandi Garima, has explained that current fuel queues are only in Abuja and not in other parts of the country. He also attributed the sprawling queues at fuel stations to logistics challenges in moving the product from Lagos to Abuja. He urged Nigerians not to panic, adding that fuel products are available. He stated this in an interview with Arise News on Saturday, July 6. He said: “In fact, there is availability of the product, but as of last week, we had a small challenge, but now the challenge is over. “And that is why you have been seeing that in Lagos there is no queue, it’s only in Abuja. That is because of the logistic challenges in terms of transport from Lagos to Abuja. “But I assure the masses that they should not panic because we got an assurance from the executive vice- president downstream, that the product is available, and we independent petroleum marketers will go and launch these products to their various depots. So, the masses should not panic in buying.”
Islamic New Year: Sultan of Sokoto declares July 7 as first day of Muharram 1446 AH
The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has officially declared Sunday, July 7, 2024, as the first day of Muharram, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year 1446 After Hijrah. The announcement was made in a statement signed by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sultanate Council, Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu. The statement clarified that the national and various moon sighting committees across the country did not receive any reports of the sighting of the new moon of Muharram on Friday, July 5, 2024, which corresponded to the 29th of Dhul’Hijja 1445 AH. Consequently, Saturday, July 6, 2024, will be the 30th of Dhul’Hijja. The Sultan extended his felicitations to Nigerian Muslims on the occasion of the Islamic New Year and urged them to continue praying for the peace, progress, and development of the country.