Admin

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

Nigeria Labour Congress leaders on Sunday argued that the next minister of labour needed to understand the plight of the workforce, particularly at a time when the economy is experiencing difficulties that directly affect them. 

Before Monday’s swearing-in of new ministries by President Bola Tinubu, the leaders participated in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos. 

The Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Funmi Sessi, expressed confidence in Simon Lalong’s ability to carry out his duties as Minister of Labour and Employment considering his background. 

Mrs. Sessi advised Lalong to deal with labour concerns using the expertise he had gained from serving as the former governor of Plateau State. 

“The future is bright with labour and Lalong as the minister, all things being equal, if he will not change, and with the good industrial relationship that he maintained with the labour unions in his state. 

“I hope he will extend it to the labour centres in Nigeria, including Nigeria Labour Congress, all workers, not only in the public sector, but private as well; both formal and informal. 

“This is necessary so that we can have the working people in Nigeria partake in the same wealth that they create; it will be a commonwealth, and that is our hope,” she said.

By Muhammad Sabiu

Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, will intensify his efforts to bolster his team with a new goalkeeper before the summer transfer window ends in another 11 days.

Reports suggest that the Benfica player Odysseas Vlachodimos is a target for Ten Hag.

Vlachodimos is reportedly interested in moving to Old Trafford, but the Red Devils may have to fork up $51 million, according to The UK Mirror.

Ten Hag wants to bring in an assistant for Andre Onana because Dean Henderson is anticipated to leave United before the deadline day.

Currently out with an injury is Tom Heaton, the third-choice shot-stopper.

Last Sunday, in their second league game of the season, United fell to Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 thanks to two goals conceded by Onana.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Rufai Sani Hanga, the Kano Central senator, pledged to provide scholarships for students to study abroad.

The senator said the scholarship for the 200 students of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), which he paid recently, was just one of the many opportunities awaiting not only students but all women and youth in his constituency.

He added that he would try hard to ensure more investment in education and empowerment for women and youth for the betterment of society.

Hanga disclosed this Wednesday at an event that converged the 200 sponsored students of BUK in his office in Tokarawa, Hadejia Road, Kano, to receive their awarding letters.

It can be recalled that Senator Hanga had paid the registration fees of 200 BUK students as a response to the painful outcry by the students as a result of a hike in the registration fee.

I responded to the painful outcry of students – Hanga

Senator Hanga said his sponsorship of the 200 BUK students was a response to the uproar generated by the increment in registration fees by the university management.

He said he came to the rescue of the students due to a call by Malam Aisar Fagge, Malam Salihu Sule Khalid, Malam Abubakar Tijjani Ibrahim and Alhaji Musa Nuhu Yankaba.

“This (scholarship) is in response to the outcry generated by the registration fee increment in Bayero University, Kano, which threatens the progress of many students in the university.

He added, “Malam Aisar, Abubakar, Salihu and Alhaji Musa were the ones who called me and advised that I should come to the aid of these students. I really commend them and the other members of my scholarship committee.

“While I consider this a quick intervention, I want to stress that more programs that target the upliftment and empowerment of our people are on the pipeline, in sha Allah,” he added.

Hanga commended the scholarship committee, adding, “I wish to advise the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity.”

We tasked ourselves for this rescue mission considering the unfavourable economic situation in Nigeria

Malam Aisar who is also a lecturer at the Department of Mass Communication, Kano State Polytechnic said they were into this rescue mission because of the unfavourable economic situation in the country and understood many students could not afford to pay for their school fees.

He said, “I have been in the teaching profession and know very well how students struggle to pay 20 or 30 thousand naira as their registration fee.

“Some students mostly go to radio stations to beg people. So, given that now there was an increment in registration fees, I feared many would have no other option than to drop their studies.”

It gladdened me when my mother thanked me for selfless service to humanity – Aisar

The communication scholar also added that it excited him and nearly reduced him to tears when his mother called to thank him for his selfless service to humanity.

“Although I was very excited looking at the happy faces of these promising students, there was nothing more exciting than the moment when my mother called to thank me.

“My mother, Hajiya, was in a tricycle when she heard the other two passengers talking about the matter, thanking Senator Hanga for rescuing their children.”

Students narrate tribulations, thank Hanga

“I reckoned without a hike in the registration fee. When I heard about it, my mind was awfully heavy as I knew I couldn’t afford it,” recalled a 400-level student of Bayero University, Kano (BUK), with a beaming smile on his face.

The student said a new hope had been rekindled in him by the scholarship he got from Senator Rufai Sani Hanga.

Another student, Abdurrahman Kabir Yunus, said the news of the hike in registration fees paralysed him.

He said, “But Senator Hanga wiped up my tears. And what he did was a lesson to me as I really feel indebted.”

Sham’una Rabi’u from Warawa Local Government said it was underestimating to describe how happy he was.

Rabi’u said, “I am very happy to be one of the beneficiaries of this scholarship. I couldn’t thank Senator Hanga enough.”

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assigned portfolios to his Ministers-designate, bringing an end to weeks-long speculation but also bringing to the fore new discussions and analyses on the ministers’ portfolios and the new ministries created. A journalist and an editor, Jaafar Jaafar, said, ‘The Northwest has many ministers but no weight’.

While a chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Adamu Garba, said, “It is one of the most balanced ministerial portfolio allocations of recent history. Adamu also pointed out that “President Tinubu – dedicated Infrastructure and Finance to the South. While Agriculture and security are to the North. Soft infrastructure like health and education to the North, and Humanitarian and Innovation to the South. Productivity and Job creation in the North- The North needs more security and agricultural productivity to grow and industrialise, while the South is good with services and infrastructure.”

 In Tinubu’s ministerial portfolios, there were surprises, and there were no surprises, so to speak.

In most democracies, ministers are selected from politicians who contributed to victory at the polls and from technocrats with strong professional track records. Cabinet ministers are not just a team but a collection of great thinkers—silicon valley-thinkers—men and women who can move the government with the speed of the imagination of most Nigerians, and their sense of judgment must be centred on the challenges of unlocking the future for ordinary Nigerians. and also bring new thinking and synergy to the public sector’s role in providing for the needs of all Nigerians.

Most Nigerians expect Tinubu’s ministers to be not just members of the cabinet but to add value to governance; they must be propellers for greater equality of opportunity for all Nigerians. They must be able to build a system that will swing the government away from the traditional methodology of concentrating on only the ‘off-the-shelf way of improving society. 

Some Nigerians are complaining that Tinubu’s cabinet has too many politicians. However, the truth is a right-thinking President brings on board top-notch grassroots politicians to hold the political front for him when the need arises. President Tinubu and the Dr Abdullahi Ganduje-led APC should, as a matter of ‘need’ maintain and ‘oil’ that area. This is where the synergy between the Executive and party supremacy comes into play.

President Tinubu and the APC, as a matter of policy and politics, should make sure that those appointed as ministers know what is expected of them. A ministerial appointment is a call for a national assignment. Nigerians expect ministers not only to saddle themselves with the responsibilities within their respective portfolios but also to be team players that will bring feasible ideas and be at par with local and global realities. Nigeria will be keen to see new ideas for fighting poverty, tackling the skyrocketing prices of food commodities, improving electricity supply, and finding new ways to fight insecurity in the north and southeast, etc.

On the political side, apart from supporting the president, ministers should see themselves as the ‘faces’ of the APC in their respective communities; their political presence and contact with locals are very important. For example, during the 2019 presidential elections, most of Buhari’s first-term appointees, especially from the north, became mere spectators in their states due to their weak link with the grassroots. Tinubu’s ministers may find themselves in such situations if they operate with weak links with the grassroots and poor rapport with the public. In this regard, in the weeks to come, many eyes will be on Nyesom Wike, FCT, and Ministers, whether he will remain ‘a PDP’ or crossover to the APC.

On the other hand, there are some young people in Tinubu’s cabinet, so many eyes will be on them. Their performance or underperformance will greatly impact youths’ participation in governance and politics, as well as give the Tinubu government the ‘strength’ to boast that youths are adequately represented in the government. This will also create a strong link between the government and the youth, who form more than half of Nigerian voters. This would also serve as an impetus for a good image and a sound political strategy for the All Progressive Congress (APC) because young people’s political participation and engagement in governance are essential at this moment.

Lastly, President Tinubu should, as a matter of importance, be firm in assessing every member of his cabinet. Non-performing ministers should be replaced quickly so as not to lose time and also keep others on their toes.

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The first COVID-19 variant BA.2.86 case was found in the UK on Friday, according to the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA). 

UKHSA said in a statement on its website that the new COVID-19 strain was found in a person who had no recent travel history. 

“We are aware of a confirmed case in the UK. We will provide further information in due course after undertaking detailed assessment,” Dr. Meera Chand, Deputy Director of UKHSA, stated.

US health authorities and the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that they were closely observing a new COVID-19 variant. 

Despite the fact that WHO classified the virus as a “variant under monitoring,” its potential impact is presently unknown.

By Ukasha Rabiu Magama

The Bauchi state government has assured a speedy renovation of some parts of the specialist hospital gutted recently by fire.

The development came when the state’s Commissioner of Health, Dr Adamu Umar Sambo, visited the hospital on Saturday.

The commissioner, who went there to see the nature of the work in the hospital, encouraged the workers to continue saving the lives of the people of Bauchi state with no hesitation.

Promising the work, the commissioner also assures the replacement of all burnt equipment in the hospital and does the needful to adjust the hospital bill and make it affordable to Bauchi citizens.

He further commended the effort of the workers for their contribution to improving the lives of Bauchi citizens. He pledged to continue supporting the workers best of his ability to bring the desired output to the state.

By Muhammadu Sabiu 

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has orchestrated a remarkable act of support, gifting essential relief materials to 23,000 individuals deeply impacted by the 2022 flood that swept through Niger. 

Stepping onto the stage of kindness, Mustapha Ahmed, the director general of NEMA, emphasised this noble initiative during the launch of the distribution event in Minna, Niger State’s capital, on Saturday. 

Abubakar Yusuf, Distribution Supervisor, stood in the stead of Mr. Ahmed, underscoring the heart behind this endeavour. 

This intervention emerges as a haven for not just farmers who bore the brunt of the 2022 flood but also for the most vulnerable among the victims, extending a compassionate touch to alleviate the pangs of the disaster’s aftermath. 

Ahmed, with a spirit of unity, recalled the poignant chapters of the 2022 flood that swept across the nation, leaving no corner unshaken and no heart untouched. 

In response, a symphony of care has been orchestrated, composed of sewing and grinding machines, bags brimming with rice, beans, and sorghum, as well as life’s essential companions: vegetable oil, salt, tomato paste sachets, and seasoning. 

The items also include mosquito nets to guard against sleepless nights, rubber mats to create a barrier against discomfort, and blankets to wrap hope in warmth.

By Mukhtar Jarmajo 

As you settle into your new role, it is important to shed light on an issue of paramount importance – the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritise affordable housing. With a staggering housing deficit of 28 million homes, requiring a colossal 21 trillion Naira in financing, it is crucial that our nation focuses its efforts on closing this gap to unlock the potential of our people and propel Nigeria towards prosperity.

Affordable housing stands as a critical linchpin in our ambitious plans for national development. It serves as a foundation upon which countless other facets of progress are built – from socioeconomic stability to individual well-being and sustainable growth. By addressing the housing deficit head-on, we simultaneously embark on a journey towards alleviating poverty, creating jobs, and sparking economic growth in our dear nation.

The current deficit poses daunting challenges that cannot be ignored. Millions of our fellow Nigerians find themselves without decent shelter, perpetuating a grave cycle of despair and limited opportunity. High rental costs and inadequate housing options place an unnecessary burden on citizens’ shoulders, hindering their potential and choking the nation from realising its full potential.

To address these pressing realities, it is paramount that we employ a multi-faceted approach. Our strategies must involve collaboration with key stakeholders, including the public and private sectors, cooperatives, and international organisations experienced in addressing housing deficits. Together, we can forge a path forward that paves the way for the creation of safe, affordable, and sustainable communities throughout Nigeria.

As the new Minister of Housing, your visionary leadership shall play an instrumental role in translating our collective aspirations into concrete action plans. By working closely with your colleagues in government, you have the power to mobilise resources, devise innovative financing models, and develop policies that holistically address the housing crisis. Embracing public-private partnerships, streamlining regulations, and implementing tax incentives for affordable housing developers are just a few promising avenues we must explore.

Furthermore, we must foster an environment that encourages research and development in housing construction methods, materials, and technologies. Technology-driven solutions can not only enhance the speed and efficiency of housing construction but also reduce costs, making affordable housing a more attainable reality for millions of Nigerians. Embracing sustainability and environmentally friendly practices must be at the forefront of our efforts, ensuring that future generations can thrive in a clean and robust nation.

By diligently championing these efforts, we can envision a Nigeria where every citizen has access to a safe and secure home. This, in turn, will drastically improve health outcomes, enhance educational opportunities, and empower our people to participate in the nation’s growth and development actively. From the densely populated urban centres to the farthest reaches of our rural landscapes, affordable housing shall serve as the catalyst for levelling the playing field and driving collective progress.

Honourable Minister, this is your moment to leave an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history. With your unwavering commitment to the urgent cause of affordable housing, we can bridge the 28 million housing deficit and nurture a thriving society. Seize this opportunity, rally the nation’s resources, and build a brighter future where affordable housing is no longer a dream but a tangible reality for all Nigerians.

Jarmajo is the CEO of Greenturf Architects. 

By Muhamamad Suleiman Yobe

Jigawa state task force on petroleum products says it will reveal the identity of filling stations found tempering with their litres to short-charge consumers.

The chairman of the task force, Alhaji Alhassan Muhammad, gave the warning when members of the committee visited some filling stations in Gumel, Jahun and Kiyawa local government areas.

He also warned that any filling station that does not possess Sarafin Gauge would be sanctioned.

He said a number of filling stations visited by the committee have no standard measuring gauge.

Alhaji Alhassan Muhammad advised marketers to always check their litres before dispensing fuel to consumers.

The chairmen said that from the inception of the task force to date, more than 30 filling stations have been warned for engaging in various unwholesome activities.

He commended some marketers in Hadejia and Gumel for possessing Sarafin gauge and maintaining proper litres in their filling stations.

By Muhammadu Sabiu

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has disclosed that Nigeria is grappling with an escalating humanitarian crisis, with over 3.5 million individuals internally displaced due to ongoing crises.

The data sheds light on the dire situation faced by countless Nigerians who have been uprooted from their homes and communities.

The heart-wrenching effects of the insurgency in the northeast have been acutely felt in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe (BAY) states.

According to the Aid Worker Security Database, the insurgency has exacted a heavy toll, resulting in the tragic deaths of 37 aid workers since 2016.

Additionally, 24 aid workers have been wounded, and 34 others have been kidnapped.

This sobering statistic serves as a sombre reminder of the challenges faced by those working tirelessly to provide assistance to those in need.

The World Humanitarian Day commemoration in Abuja took on a poignant tone this year as stakeholders from the humanitarian sector joined forces for a road walk.

At the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Nasir Sani Gwarzo, addressed the gathering.

He emphasised the significance of this year’s theme, #NoMatterWhat, which encapsulates the unwavering dedication of humanitarians to extend life-saving aid to individuals, regardless of their identity or geographical location.

The event not only brought attention to the pressing issues at hand but also highlighted the collective commitment of those in the humanitarian sector to alleviate the suffering of affected communities.

As Nigeria navigates these turbulent times, the rallying cry of #NoMatterWhat serves as a reminder that compassion and assistance remain steadfast even in the face of adversity.