Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has declared that it is a big shame that Nigeria cannot feed itself.
Makinde spoke while receiving national executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) led by its President, Chris Iziguzo on Thursday in Ibadan, the state capital.
Our correspondent reports that Makinde was invested as Grand Patron of NUJ, Oyo State Council.
The event was attended by his Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi and Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
Others were NUJ President Vice President South-West B Zone, Princess Ronke Afebioye-Samo; National Financial Secretary, Comrade Samuel Dada; National Trustee Member, B Zone, Comrade Adebayo Akamo; Zonal Secretary, South-West, Abdulrazak Alege and NUJ Chairman in the state, Ademola Babalola.
Makinde said that it was unfortunate that many states and local government areas were not producing anything.
He added that the federal allocation was not enough, and charged all and sundry to find ways to produce rather than depending on foreign goods.
“It is a big shame for this country that we cannot feed ourselves. We should go back to those things that will allow us to bring confidence back to our people and to ensure that this country is back on the path of growth and economic progress.
“I would say that it (Supreme Court judgment) has nothing to do with us here in Oyo State because since I came in, we’ve conducted local government election twice, and for one day after we held the first election, there’s been no caretaker anywhere, we planned and gave allowance for election process to go on smoothly. So, it’s not a big problem for us.
“The issue we have is that we’re not producing enough, we’re not productive,” he said.
It’s a big shame Nigeria can’t feed itself – Makinde
It’s a big shame Nigeria can’t feed itself – Makinde
LWC pledges better service as Assembly decries lack of water
The Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Environment has expressed concern over the unavailability of water supply in the state during its oversight visit to the Lagos State Water Corporation.
This was revealed in a Thursday statement by the Deputy Director, Corporate Affairs and Brand Management Unit, LWC, Kehinde Fashola.
The House Committee, led by its chairman, Adebola Shabi, expressed concern over the unavailability of water supply in most homes in the state.
Shabi emphasised the need for the House to ensure that the interests and rights of their constituents were protected.
He requested a comprehensive report of the ongoing infrastructural projects and the challenges faced by the LWC in producing water supply.
The Managing Director of the LWC, Mukhtaar Tijani, while receiving the committee members, said he had been working diligently to ensure water supply to many homes in the state.
Tijani cited the recent connection of Baruwa Community to Mosan Okunola Waterworks as one of the steps taken to achieve this goal.
The statement said the Executive Director, Operations, Taiwo Omolanke, acknowledged the challenges faced by the LWC, including the reluctance of customers to pay for water already subsidised by the state government.
She announced plans to meter all customers to ensure accountability for water produced.
During the Cholera outbreak in Lagos recently, the LWC noted that water from the corporation was safe for residents to consume without fear of disease.
It warned against consuming water from uncertified sources.
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Accreditation lapses delay Oyo college graduates’ NYSC mobilisation
Graduates from the Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology are uncertain of mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps scheme, as the institution fails to secure accreditation for some of its academic programmes.
The institution has yet to secure accreditation for courses in the Department of Library and Information Science, Faculty of Management, and the Department of Statistics, before admitting students.
Despite assurances, the accreditation issues remained unresolved 15 months after the 2022/23 graduates completed their studies.
The development left them barred from the mandatory national programme.
A graduate from the Department of Library and Information Science, who pleaded anonymity, said the institution assured them of getting accreditation for the courses.
“They told us the accreditation would be in place by the time we finished the programme, but that never happened.
“Instead of mobilising us for the NYSC, they asked us to pay N5,000 each, yet we haven’t been mobilized after payment,” he said.
He said the non-accreditation of courses by the institution had also affected the employment prospects of the graduates.
“Many have been unable to secure jobs due to the NYSC certificate being a prerequisite for employment.
“Even if we’re able to get jobs, we’re still being asked to bring our NYSC certificate and we can’t get that if the school doesn’t mobilise us,” he said.
Another graduate from the Faculty of Management said, “We are the first set of HND students from the faculty, and they did not tell us from the beginning that the courses were not accredited. Now they are lying to us, and our juniors have been mobilised while we remain in limbo.”
Some of the parents who had become frustrated over the accreditation issues also accused the college administration of not discussing the problems with the Oyo State Governor, Mr Seyi Makinde and the education minister.
They accused the authorities of the college being interested in convocation and collection of fees only, without making progress on the accreditation issues.
“The school held convocation after 11 months, likely to collect fees, but there has been no progress on mobilising these students for NYSC,” said one of the parents who spoke also on a condition of anonymity.
Reacting to the development, the National Association of Polytechnic Students wrote to the college’s Rector, demanding a resolution within seven days.
“We frown on this action because of its sensitivity and it should be addressed without any delay by the school management to avoid wasting and prolonging the educational year of the students,” the letter stated.
Speaking on the development, the Director of Student Affairs, Alhaji Onike Ramon, said the current management had secured accreditation for the affected courses.
“The last administration admitted some students before the accreditation of the courses. When this present management came in, they put machinery in motion to get the courses accredited. The affected courses are the Faculty of Management courses. Last year, the courses had been accredited,” he said.
He then said the problem was with the students who were admitted before the accreditation of the courses was concluded.
He said the institution was working with the NYSC, Joint Admission and Matriculation Board, and the National Board for Technical Education to resolve the issue and ensure the affected students, around 200 in number, were mobilised for service.
“The management has even invited the representative of the NYSC to the school to dialogue with the students to let them see the efforts of the management in that regard. It is not a case of not accrediting the courses,” he said.
The Rector of OYCATECH, Prof Akinola Akinlabi, said, “Normally, you need to spend up to two years before you can be mobilised.
“I became the Rector just about a year and a few months ago. They got admitted about four years ago and they graduated last year. As of the time some of them got admitted, the programme had not been accredited. I had to make sure I got it accredited last year.”
The Rector stated that the rules of mobilization for the NYSC had since changed, with NBTE, JAMB, and NYSC requiring specific procedures before a student can be mobilised.
“The JAMB must give you a number and NBTE must send your name to the NYSC before you can be mobilized.
“The NBTE won’t send a list of students in programmes that are not accredited. Before the students can be mobilised would be towards the end of the year. Right now, I am in Abuja. I have been to Abuja more than four times on their issue,” he said.
The Rector expressed his commitment to resolving the issue and stressed that the delay was not his making.
“They should, instead, be praying that we get the issue resolved. I didn’t cause it. They are my children too, I want them to be mobilised.
“That’s why I am putting all these efforts. Currently, we are working on it for those who have graduated. For those who have not graduated, they will be mobilised immediately after they complete their programmes because there is full accreditation from the NBTE now,” Akinlabi stated.
Police ban vigilantes, others from Saturday LGA election in Delta
The Delta State Police Command has banned all non-state actors from playing any role during the local government elections in the state on Saturday.
The non-state actors include vigilantes, anti-cult volunteers, hunters and others.
Delta State Commissioner of Police Olufemi Abaniwonda, who stated this ahead of the elections, vowed to decisively deal with any of them found meddling in the election process.
According to him, non-state actors must steer clear of the polling units and the entire election process.
He said the command has also deployed Marine Police to the waterways and others to the 25 local government areas to ensure hitch-free elections.
Abaniwonda said the command, in synergy with other sister agencies, is prepared to protect all polling units, RACs, collation centres, and offices of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission, DSIEC, its officials and the electorate.
He said further: “There would be restrictions on vehicular movement from 8 am to 3 pm on the day. Only officials on emergency and essential duties, which include accredited election monitors and observers, will be allowed passage during this time.
“NABTEB examination students are also exempted from this restriction of movement order. The ban on VIP escorts during the election will also be enforced, they are therefore advised not to move with their security details on election day, as any officer found wanting will be arrested and sanctioned accordingly.”
While regretting the inconveniences this will cause, members of the public are therefore advised to adhere to the instruction, as anyone found wanting will be made to face the full wrath of the law.
“It is pertinent to note that the success of this election, to a large extent, lies in how the electorate conduct themselves. Residents should be law-abiding, and rest assured that the command will not compromise in carrying out its primary responsibility of ensuring the protection of life and property as well as the preservation of public tranquillity before, during, and after the elections,” the Commissioner of Police stated.
Police ban vigilantes, others from Saturday LGA election in Delta
Policies must impact lives of average Nigerians, says Cardoso
The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, has emphasised the need for policies to positively impact the lives of average Nigerians.
Speaking at the 2024 Business Day CEO Forum in Lagos on Thursday, Cardoso stated that policymakers have a duty to create policies that foster a stable and prosperous economic environment for all Nigerians.
“Whatever we do must impact the average man on the street,” he declared.
According to a statement shared with our correspondent on Friday, the apex bank governor stressed the importance of transparency and trust in maintaining a resilient financial system and rebuilding trust in the international market and with foreign investors.
Cardoso highlighted the CBN’s efforts in building trust and ensuring a transparent system through its collaborative relationship with the Fiscal Authority.
He noted that the CBN’s policy statement is tailored to address concerns raised by Nigerians in different economic sectors.
The Governor also addressed the ongoing bank recapitalization program, stating that the CBN aims to encourage banks to focus on raising fresh capital from external sources.
“Retained earnings are easily determinable and help for comparability. We must move to a more transparent system within the banking system,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of transparency within the banking system.
The forum featured presentations and panel discussions on leadership and innovation, including “Thriving in an Age of Continuous Reinvention” and “Leadership for the Next Century: Global Trends and Insights for Nigeria”.
The event brought together global leaders and thinkers to share their insights and drive forward the conversation on leadership and innovation.
In his opening remarks, BusinessDay Media Limited CEO, Frank Aigbogun, stated that the forum’s mission is to address economic and development growth challenges in the economy.
He highlighted the importance of leadership and innovation in driving growth and progress.
The event featured a fireside chat with Cardoso, where he fielded questions from Aigbogun and addressed various issues, including the CBN’s efforts to tame inflation and build trust in the economy.
He emphasised the need for policymakers to focus on improving the socio-economic environment in which ordinary Nigerians operate.
Ndidi reaches Leicester agreement
After the report that Nigeria international, Wilfred Ndidi, turned down a contract offer from Spanish club Sevilla, expressing his preference to remain in the Premier League, Footmercato says the midfielder is on the verge of signing a new contract with Leicester City, According Sports Extra reports.
Ndidi left the King Power Stadium at the end of last season as a free agent following the expiration of his contract and emerged as one of the most sought-after players with several clubs showing interest in the Nigerian.
Barcelona, Sevilla, Juventus, Everton and a host of others have all been linked with the combative midfielder who last season showcased his talent with the Foxes, contributing significantly to their return to the EPL with four goals, five assists, and maintaining an 82% pass accuracy across 32 league appearances.
His defensive capabilities, combined with his progressive play, make him a valuable asset.
Latest report has suggested that the former Genk player is set to return to Leicester.
“Wilfred Ndidi had all the makings of a good deal for OM, OL and AS Monaco. At the end of his contract with Leicester, the 27-year-old Nigerian international midfielder was inclined to discover a new environment and opened the door wide to Ligue 1,” the website wrote.
“Despite discussions with the clubs mentioned above, the man with 57 caps for the Super Eagles is not expected to cross the Channel this summer and for good reason.
“According to our information, Ndidi has reached an agreement with the Foxes for a contract extension. Good news for Leicester who will be able to count this season on a player who has been playing for 7 and a half years in the former club of Riyad Mahrez and N’Golo Kanté.”
While there has been no official announcement about his contract extension from the club or Ndidi’s camp, the player has been tipped to remain in England with Everton seriously interested in signing the player as replacement for Amadou Onana who has been heavily linked with a potential exit from Goodison Park.
Fresh crisis rocks Zamfara APC as another faction emerges
Crisis has again erupted in the Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress as the federal lawmaker representing Kaura-named-Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency, Hon Sani Jaji and his supporters created another faction within the party.
Addressing a press conference in Gusau on Wednesday, the chairman of the Sani Jaji-led APC faction, Honourable Aminu Abubakar MC, said they decided to create their faction because the party leaders have failed to unite its members due to selfish interests.
He said, “Those calling themselves party leaders have failed to unite the members of the party due to their selfish interest.
“We did our best to draw their attention to the dangers of disunity within our great party, but unfortunately, they refused to listen to us.”
Abubakar expressed disgust over the recent stakeholders’ reconciliation meeting, which he said was initiated by the former governor of the state (now Defence Minister), Honourable Bello Mohammed Matawalle, but nobody from the Jaji camp was invited.
He stressed that the said meeting was not done in good faith because of the non invitation of Honourable Sani Jaji as one of the stakeholders of the party in the state.
‘’How can the state chapter of the APC be complete without Honourable Sani Jaji?” He queried
“If Honourable Sani Jaji is not a stakeholder of the APC in Zamfara State, who else can we call a stakeholder?
“This is a calculated attempt by some people who call themselves leaders of the state APC to finally kill the party.
“For this reason, we have decided to open a new APC Secretariat in the state and we appointed the Vice chairman of the party and the assistant secretary to take charge until after the election of the new executive members.”
Arewa According recalls that Senator Kabiru Garba Marafa had also raised similar allegations where he also created his own faction.
With these developments, the state chapter of the APC has now been factionalised into three factions led by the Minister of Defence, Honourable Bello Mohammed, Senator Kabiru Garba Marafa and Honourable Sani Jaji.
Osho joins Ligue 1 side Auxerre
Nigerian defender Gabriel Osho has completed his transfer from English side Luton Town to newly-promoted Ligue 1 side Auxerre.
Osho rose to the limelight at relegated Premier League side Luton Town last season. He registered 23 appearances and scored two goals for the club, but his efforts were not enough to help them avoid relegation.
However, Osho’s contract at Luton Town expired last season but he did not sign a new deal despite new offers from the club.
On Tuesday, he shared a a post on social media, confirming that he was leaving the Hatters. He also thanked the fans for their support during his time at the club.
In a new development on Thursday, Ligue 1 side Auxerre have now confirmed that Osho has signed a new deal with them. The 25-year-old signed a one-year deal with the option of a year’s extension.
Auxerre just gained promotion to the French top-flight after finishing first in the Ligue 2 last season. They will be looking to avoid relegation next season.
Aside from Luton Town, Osho has played for different clubs in England like Rochdale, Yeovil Town, and Bristol Rovers, but he has never played outside England. This is a new challenge for him, and he will be looking to impress.
The 25-year-old has been invited to the Super Eagles once, but he could not make it to camp because he was injured.
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Onuachu keen on Trabzonspor move
Paul Onuachu is keen on a permanent move to Trabzonspor from Southampton, as the Turkish club aims to secure the services of the Nigerian striker permanently this summer, According Sports Extra reports.
Southampton, who were promoted back to the Premier League last season, have been in talks to offload several players loaned out during their Championship campaign. Among these players is Onuachu, who spent last season on loan at Trabzonspor.
Trabzonspor have been working diligently to secure Onuachu’s services, with their latest offer reported to be €6m plus a sell-on clause.
The club’s manager, Abdullah Avci, recently revealed that discussions with Onuachu have been positive, with the 30-year-old expressing a desire to return to the Turkish side.
“We spoke to Paul Onuachu three or four days ago; he also wants to be with us,” Avci was quoted as saying by A Spor.
“As of now, I cannot say it (a deal) is done or not; the president is working hard on this issue. We will be a little patient.”
Onuachu’s impressive performances in Turkey have also attracted interests from other Turkish clubs, including Besiktas, Fenerbahce, and Southampton’s sister club, Goztepe. Despite this, Trabzonspor appear to be in pole position to secure his signature.
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Edo hockey board hosts grassroots tourney
The Edo State Hockey Association Board led by its chairman, Dr Walter Imoedemhe, is organising a one-day Youth Hockey Fiesta on Saturday at St. Maria Goretti College hockey stadium, Benin City. Featuring at the tourney are St. Maria Goretti College, Benin; Niger College, Benin; Idia College, Benin and Our Lady of Fatima College, Auchi.
Other highlights of the event include veteran masters matches between Edo Hockey Masters (male and female), Goretti Old Girls and UNIBEN hockey teams.
The occasion will witness the donation of 30 sticks, 30 balls, 32 jerseys and goalkeepers kits to students of St Maria Gorretti by the Old Girls Association.
The tournament is to climax the agenda of the association to focus on progressive development of pilot schools, which commenced with the establishment of hockey centres in these schools with assigned coaches from the Edo State Sports Commission.
The tournament is to help assess the efforts of the association in the past one year.
In a recent board meeting, Imoedemhe thanked members for their resolve to fulfill the promise made to the athletes. The chairman thanked members for their support despite the lean support from government.
The association, according to Imoedemhe, is propelled by Setraco Nigeria Ltd, Amobi Engineering, Estymol Oil and Gas with the support of the Edo State Sports Commission.
“We hope the government will complement our efforts by helping to repair the dilapidating training facilities, employ programme athletes for hockey, sponsor the state team to the forthcoming national league in Kaduna on July 29,” Imoedemhe stated.