News

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of President Bola Tinubu, shared a message of hope and positivity during her Christmas address on Saturday. 

Hosting an elaborate Christmas party for the children of Nana Berry Orphanage in Abuja, the first lady expressed her optimism for the upcoming year. 

“As we go into the year 2024, our message should be how to transform the lives of the young ones,” Senator Tinubu said. 

Advising parents, she encouraged them to avoid discussing poverty in front of their children, highlighting that Nigeria is not a poor nation. 

“The wealthy ones should also take care of the poor ones and make them wealthy; that is all it takes,” she added. 

Senator Tinubu addressed the issue of poverty, noting that it has been taken out of context and is negatively impacting the youth. 

“We have to give them hope and show them the positive life. We are entering a glorious year, and those who believe that it is going to be glorious will enjoy it,” she affirmed.

During the Christmas party, Senator Tinubu engaged with the children, sharing a Bible story and emphasising the importance of parents instilling good morals in their wards. 

“Parents are supposed to tell the children Christmas stories; that is what we all grow up with,” she remarked, urging a shift in the narrative of what Christmas represents in the State House.

By Uzair Adam Imam

In a spectacular event held at Tahir Guest Palace on Friday, PR Nigeria, in collaboration with Daily Nigeria and Arewa Agenda, recognized and awarded thirty exceptional youths under the age of thirty for their outstanding achievements in various fields.

The ceremony aimed to showcase the remarkable talents of young individuals from northern Nigeria who are actively contributing to the development of their states and the nation as a whole.

Dr. Musa Sufi, one of the organizers, highlighted the significance of the event, stating that it serves as a testament to the innovative minds thriving in northern Nigeria.

He emphasized the need to present these accomplishments to the world, inspiring and motivating other young people to strive for excellence in their endeavours.

Addressing a prevalent issue, Dr. Sufi pointed out the communication gap between the older and younger generations, emphasizing the lack of mentorship for the youth.

He urged both the government and non-governmental organizations to innovate and develop initiatives that align with exploring the immense potential and strength of young people.

Among the esteemed awardees was Aliyu Idris, a final year student at Bayero University. Expressing his joy, Idris acknowledged the challenges of being selected among over seven hundred nominees and considered his education award as a prestigious recognition.

He attributed his success to determination and unwavering commitment to achieving his goals.

Abdulhafiz Abdullahi Aliyu, another awardee from Jos, expressed his excitement about being recognized for his organization, Sunna Techlap, which he established within a year.

He shared his gratitude for the acknowledgement and the opportunity to receive the award, emphasizing the pride of being invited from Jos.

The event drew a distinguished audience, including notable academics such as Dr. Bala Muhammad, and Dr. Sule Yau Sule, Dr. Kabiru Sufi Said, and prominent figures from the Kannywood industry, including actresses like Mommy Gombe and producers.

The diverse attendance underscored the broad support for celebrating and encouraging the accomplishments of young individuals in the northern region.

As northern Nigeria takes a step to bridge the generational gap and provide recognition to its talented youth, the hope is that these initiatives will continue to inspire and foster a culture of excellence and innovation among the younger generation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

In a convention chaired by the Honourable Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, the board of the Nigeria Customs Service confirmed the appointment of two Assistant Comptrollers General (ACGs) and approved the promotion of 2209 senior officers. 

This is contained in a statement signed by the spokesperson for the service, Abdullahi Maiwadah. 

The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) convened its 58th regular meeting on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters. 

ACG Florence Nano Ogar-Modey and ACG Queen Ogubudu were confirmed as substantive members of the NCS Management Team during the meeting.

The comprehensive promotion list includes both General Duty (GD) and Support Staff (SS) personnel who demonstrated outstanding performance in the 2023 promotion exercise.

The breakdown of promoted officers covers various ranks, from Inspector of Customs to Customs Comptroller.

Notably, special promotions were approved for fourteen officers in recognition of their exceptional performance in various assigned responsibilities. 

Among the newly promoted comptrollers are TM Daniyan, F Fajana, N Isyaku, MV Umana, AC Nwobi, F Abdulqadir, HK Ejibunu, FM Ojiofor, IN Aliyu, MD Malah, EO Oshoba, JK Oladeji, E Luka, AP Daruaku, FM Ojeifor, IN Nwokorie, EJ Harrison, and others. 

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly appointed and promoted officers.

According to Maiwadah, the comptroller urged them to redouble their efforts in fulfilling crucial roles such as revenue generation, trade facilitation, and the suppression of smuggling.

These efforts, he emphasised, are essential for enhancing the NCS’s pivotal role in bolstering Nigeria’s socio-economic well-being.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Management Quarters resonated with the joyous melodies of Christmas carols as officers and the management team came together for a heartwarming celebration.

Hosted by Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the event, themed “Dine and Grill with the CGC,” aimed to foster a sense of unity and festive spirit among the customs community. 

CGC Adeniyi, extending warm Christmas wishes, encouraged officers to embrace the true essence of the season—love and forgiveness. Beyond official duties, he emphasised the importance of coming together to relax and enjoy the company of colleagues, turning the NCS Management Quarters into a festive haven. 

The Christmas carol service was a lively affair, featuring musical performances, dance, and vibrant decorations.

The officers actively participated, reinforcing a spirit of togetherness and goodwill. CGC Adeniyi’s call to imbibe the Christmas spirit resonated, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and joy. 

The event provided a well-deserved break for officers, offering a moment to unwind and reflect on the year’s achievements.

CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude for their hard work and dedication, highlighting the significance of maintaining a positive work environment.

In his closing remarks, CGC Adeniyi not only thanked the officers but also urged them to carry the festive spirit into the upcoming year.

By Abdurrahman Muhammad

The Central Bank of Nigeria’s financial policy and regulation director, Haruna Mustapha, announced in a circular on Friday.

The central bank has issued guidelines and regulations for banks on managing cryptocurrency in accordance with global standards to prevent misuse. They also urge banks to comply with these guidelines and regulations.

See the full statement below: 

FPR/DIR/PUB/CIR/002/003

CIRCULAR TO ALL BANKS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

GUIDELINES ON OPERATIONS OF BANK ACCOUNTS FOR VIRTUAL ASSETS SERVICE PROVIDERS (VASPs)

The CBN in February 2021 issued a circular restricting banks and other financial institutions from operating accounts for cryptocurrency service providers in view of the money laundering and terrorism financing (ML/TF) risks and vulnerabilities inherent in their operations as well as the absence of regulations and consumer protection measures.

However, current trends globally have shown that there is need to regulate the activities of virtual assets service providers (VASPs) which include cryptocurrencies and crypto assets. Following this development, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in 2018 also updated its Recommendation 15 to require VASPS to be regulated to prevent misuse of virtual assets for ML/TF/PF.

Furthermore, Section 30 of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 recognizes VASPs as part of the definition of a financial institution. In addition, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in May 2022 issued Rules on Issuance, Offering and Custody of Digital Assets and VASPS to provide a regulatory framework for their operations in Nigeria.

In view of the foregoing, the CBN hereby issues these Guidelines to provide guidance to financial institutions under its regulatory purview in respect of their banking relationship with VASPs in Nigeria.

The Guidelines supersedes the CBN’s circulars referenced FPR/DIR/GEN/CIR/06/010 of January 12, 2017 and BSD/DIR/PUB/LAB/014/001 of February 5, 2021 on the subject. However, banks and other financial institutions are still prohibited from holding, trading and/or transacting in virtual currencies on their own account.

Accordingly, all banks and other financial institutions are hereby required to immediately comply with the provisions of the Guidelines.

HARUNA B. MUSTAFA

DIRECTOR, FINANCIAL POLICY AND REGULATION DEPARTMENT

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army Council has approved promotions, elevating 47 Brigadier Generals to Major Generals and promoting 75 Colonels to Brigadier Generals.

This follows the recent retirement of 113 generals. 

Brig. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, conveyed the Council’s decision on Friday, noting Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja’s endorsement on Thursday. 

Notable promotions include Brig. Gen. WB Etuk, Commandant of the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management, and Brig. Gen. O Nwachukwu, appointed Director of Army Public Relations. 

Furthermore, key appointments include Brig. Gen. O Nwachukwu as the Director of Army Public Relations, Brig. Gen. EE Ekpenyong at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, and Brig. Gen. SI Musa as the Director of Legal Service (Army).

The promotions also extend to officers transitioning from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General. Notable figures in this group include Col. Nwakonobi, Chief of Staff at Headquarters 3 Brigade, and Col. PA Zipele, Commander of Signal Operations Command.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

In a highly anticipated Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) election at the Kano State Polytechnic, Dr. Badamasi Inuwa, from the Department of Life Science, School of Technology, secured a resounding victory to become the newly elected ASUP Chairman. 

The election held today witnessed enthusiastic participation from lecturers across all six branches of the polytechnic. 

Dr Badamasi Inuwa emerged as the winner with a commanding total of 218 votes, triumphing over two other contenders for the coveted position of ASUP Chairman.  

His opponents were Engineer Shehu Saikayi from the Department of Electrical Engineering, SOT, and Bashir Umar Faruq from SGS.  

The Daily Reality reported that the atmosphere at the School of Technology buzzed with excitement and anticipation as the democratic process unfolded, shaping the future leadership of the union for the next two years. 

Dr Aminu Sabo, the chairman of the electoral committee overseeing the process, declared the election free and fair, praising the positive participation of lecturers.  

He remarked, “This is one of the best elections conducted in the history of this institution, with the highest number of candidates contesting.” 

The election, mandated as a biennial event, reflects the commitment to a regular turnover of leadership within the union, as stipulated in a letter dated December 15, 2023, from Malam Sulaiman Abdurrahman, the secretary of the electoral committee. 

Expressing his gratitude, Dr Badamasi Inuwa, the ASUP Chairman-elect, credited his victory to Allah and the collective support of the lecturers at Kano State Polytechnic.  

He pledged to work tirelessly to bring about development within the school, foster peace and unity among the lecturers, and ensure the delivery of quality education. 

Dr Inuwa affirmed, “My victory is a victory for all,” emphasising the collaborative spirit he intends to cultivate in his tenure as the ASUP Chairman.

By Uzair Adam Imam 

The atmosphere in the School of Technology at Kano State Polytechnic was engulfed with anticipation as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUP) election unfolded. 

Lecturers from all six branches of the polytechnic gathered to participate in the democratic process that would determine the leadership of the union for the next two years. 

The electoral committee had meticulously planned and organised the election, adhering to the constitutional provisions and code of conduct of the union. 

According to a letter dated December 15, 2023, from Malam Sulaiman Abdurrahman, the election was a mandatory biennial event, ensuring a regular turnover of leadership within the union. 

As the clock struck 8:00 p.m., the election kicked off with the candidates for the chairmanship position taking centre stage. 

Dr. Badamasi Inuwa from the Department of Life Science, SOT; Engineer Shehu Saikay from the Department of Electrical Engineering, SOT; and Bashir Umar Faruq from SGS all vied for the coveted role. 

The voting process proceeded smoothly as lecturers patiently waited in line to cast their votes, exercising their right to choose their representatives. 

Malam Sulaiman Abdurrahman, the secretary of the electoral committee, ensured that the election was conducted transparently and in accordance with the established guidelines. 

The election, scheduled to conclude by 3:00 am, saw lecturers patiently waiting to cast their votes, demonstrating a commitment to the democratic principles upon which the union was founded.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has exhibited profound compassion by sponsoring the lesser Hajj (Umrah) pilgrimage for the parents of Asma’u Sani, a young girl he had initially sponsored for a surgical operation in India.

Tragically, Asma’u passed away before the scheduled departure to the Indian hospital, prompting the governor’s empathetic response.

In a poignant gesture of condolence, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, accompanied by his deputy, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam, visited the grieving family at Alkalawa Quarters in Gwarzo local government area.

During the visit, the governor directed that the funds earmarked for Asma’u’s surgery be redirected to sponsor her parents for the Umrah pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, symbolizing a compassionate response to the family’s loss.

Moreover, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf pledged to immortalize the memory of the late Asma’u. He instructed the local Imam to secure a plot of land for the construction of either a hospital or an Islamiyya school, to be named in honor of the departed soul.

This commitment underscores the governor’s dedication to preserving the legacy of individuals who have made a positive impact on their communities.

Expressing his deep sorrow over the untimely death of young Asma’u, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf described the event as shocking and deeply pathetic.

The governor’s words reflected the genuine empathy he holds for the family in their moment of grief.

Malam Sani, the father of the deceased, moved by the governor’s honorable gesture, offered prayers for the success of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s electoral affirmation at the Supreme Court.

This acknowledgment highlights the reciprocal respect and admiration between the governor and the bereaved family during this challenging time.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s compassionate response to the tragedy exemplifies leadership that extends beyond governance, embracing a heartfelt connection with the people.

The sponsorship of the Umrah pilgrimage and the commitment to immortalize Asma’u Sani through community development initiatives stand as enduring symbols of empathy and solidarity in the face of loss.
 

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in a bid to enhance living conditions for officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, announced a strategic partnership with the Cooperative Mortgage Bank to construct 5,009 housing units nationwide. 

This was disclosed on December 18th at the Pacesetter Garden Estate, Ajoda Ibadan, Oyo State. 

Joined by notable figures such as the National President of Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, and other senior officers, CGC Adeniyi emphasized the scheme’s positive impact on the morale and efficiency of Customs personnel. 

While acknowledging the temporary relief provided through staff quarters, CGC Adeniyi expressed concerns about retirement and subsequent vacation from these facilities.

The collaboration with Cooperative Mortgage Bank aims to establish a sustainable housing solution, constructing diverse residences, including two-bedroom terrace bungalows and three-bedroom terrace duplexes in strategic locations like Lagos, Kaduna, Kano, Asaba, Masaka, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, and Abuja. 

CGC Adeniyi expressed gratitude to partners such as Cooperative Mortgage Bank, Modern Shelter, and Brains & Hammers for their crucial role in this flagship housing program. 

Tajudeen Aiyeola, President of the Cooperative Association of Nigeria, advocated for government intervention in providing low-cost housing nationwide.

He stressed the cooperative sector’s significance in implementing social and economic programs for the welfare of Nigerians. 

Aiyeola commended the Nigeria Customs Service for prioritizing the middle and lower classes, urging other agencies to follow suit.

He emphasized the need for collective efforts from the government, parastatals, agencies, and the private sector to focus on member welfare and reduce turnaround time in Nigeria. 

Representing Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Special Assistant commended the initiative for its potential contribution to the state’s economic development.

He urged support for the project, recognizing its capacity to boost the economy and provide value to Nigerian agencies. 

The event concluded with the distribution of housing documents to recipients, group photographs, and a tour showcasing various types of residences, highlighting the commitment to eradicating poverty and fostering economic development in Nigeria.