President Bola Tinubu and the leaders of the organized labour met on Thursday to deliberate on the new minimum wage for workers in the country.
The meeting held at the President’s office in the State House, Abuja, was attended by the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero; and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Festus Osifo.
President Tinubu had on Wednesday invited the labour leaders to a meeting in a bid to arrive at a common ground on the minimum wage.
The Federal Government had proposed N62,000 as the new minimum wage while the labour was pushing for N250,000 due to current realities in the country.
However, the meeting was adjourned to next week after about one-hour discussions between the parties.
READ ALSO: MINIMUM WAGE: 7 key takeaways from emergency meeting of Nigeria Governors
Ajaero, who addressed journalists at the end of the meeting, said the unions had discussions with the president on the minimum wage.
He stressed that the labour was not at the meeting for negotiation.
Ajaero said: “In the real sense, it wasn’t a negotiation but a discussion and we have had that discussion. We agreed to look at the real terms probably and reconvene in the next week.
“So that’s where we are because we didn’t go down there to talk naira and kobo. At least, there were some basic issues that we agreed on.”
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Minimum wage: Tinubu meets labour leaders, talks to continue next week
Ondo NLC elects new chairman
The Nigeria Labour Congress in Ondo State has elected Olapade Ademola, as their new chairman.
Ademola was elected by members of the State Executive Council, SEC, of the NLC at a special meeting held at the state NLC secretariat, Akure.
He replaced the previous chairman Comrade Victor Oladele Amoko who retired.
At the meeting, the 41 SEC members present, unanimously decided that Ademola will act as the Chairman of the NLC in the state.
In his acceptance speech, Comrade Ademola vowed to work to enhance welfare packages for workers in Ondo State.
Ademola said, “I want to thank the SEC members of Ondo State Nigeria Labor Congress for giving me the privilege and power to pilot the leadership of the Congress.
“Workers should be expecting something better in terms of improved salary, pension, promotion and training”.
Ondo NLC elects new chairman
Supreme Court judgment on LG autonomy, a setback – Ibori
A former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, has said that the Supreme Court judgment that granted full autonomy to local governments dealt “a severe setback on the principles of federalism.”
Ibori, in a post on X shortly after the judgment, expressed his disagreement with the verdict, referencing constitutional provisions to substantiate his claim that the decision undermines the foundations of federalism.
After an intense back and forth between the Federal Government and state governors, the Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that it is unconstitutional for governors to withhold funds earmarked for local government councils, paving the way for autonomy and direct funding for local governments.
Citing Section 162 (3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Ibori said, “The section expressly provides thus:
“Any amount standing to the credit of the Federation Account shall be distributed among the Federal and State Governments and the Local Government Councils in each State on such terms and in such manner as may be prescribed by the National Assembly. Sections 6 provide further clarity on the subject matter.
“(6) Each State shall maintain a special account to be called ‘State Joint Local Government Account’ into which shall be paid all allocations to the Local Government Councils of the State from the Federation Account and from the Government of the State.”
The former governor said the Federal Government has no right to interfere with the administration of local governments “under any guise whatsoever.”
“There are only two tiers of government in a federal system of government.
“I’m opposed to fiddling with the allocations to the Joint LG Accounts at the state level but that in itself does not call for this death knell to the clear provisions of Section 162 of the constitution,” he stated.
Ibori noted that the ruling has far-reaching consequences for the federal-state power dynamic, as it enables federal interference in local government finances and thereby centralises power, “contrary to the principles of federalism.”
Ibori further argued that if the Federal Government is allowed to directly control local government funds, it may exploit this power to exert political pressure and manipulate local governments.
“This decision could set a precedent for further federal interventions in areas traditionally reserved for state governance, potentially leading to a more centralized system of government over time.
“That local governments must be ‘democratically elected’ goes without saying. Yes, I agree, that’s the position of the constitution but withholding their allocation is not the way to go. It’s wrong.
“In the coming days, we will begin to fully understand the implications of the Supreme Court decision. An assault on the constitution is not the answer to fiddling with the Joint LG Account,” he added.
In a landmark judgment delivered by Justice Emmanuel Agim, a seven-member panel of the Supreme Court ruled that the 774 local government councils in Nigeria have the constitutional right to manage their finances autonomously, without interference from state governments
Imo: Stakeholders accuse oil companies of neglecting host communities
Stakeholders from oil-producing communities in Imo State have indicted multinational oil companies operating in the area for neglecting their social and economic responsibilities towards addressing many challenges facing the people of the area.
The accusation was made during a stakeholder summit held in Owerri organised by the Commissioner for Niger Delta Affairs, Prince Henry Okafor, towards finding solutions to youth restiveness associated with oil bunkering and vandalisation of pipelines.
Addressing the gathering, the commissioner said that the importance of the meeting was for the government to dialogue with the people of oil-producing communities on how to put an end to hostile activities associated with the destruction of pipelines, which is causing a lot of environmental pollution and decreasing production output.
He also said that the gathering was to discuss means of bringing the direction of the oil companies to the plight of the people by addressing the economic and social needs facing them.
Okafor informed that under his watch, the ministry will never play politics in dealing with the challenges facing the people.
“Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs is standing for the owners of land where oil companies operate. We are to defend and speak for their welfare. We are not for politics. We are here for the real challenges being faced by our people,” he said.
The Niger Delta Affairs commissioner, however, appealed to the youths of the oil-rich region to shun activities that are capable of disrupting the good plans the state government has for them, noting that meaningful development cannot thrive in a hostile environment.
The chairman of the occasion, a former Inspector General of Nigeria Police and former chairman of the Nigeria Police Commission, Chief Mike Okiro, said that the gathering is a landmark event that will herald a new beginning for the way forward regarding the plight of oil-producing communities.
He noted that it is the first time in the state that such a ministry will be created solely for the affairs of the host communities, who are directly bearing the consequences of operational activities by oil companies.
In his contribution during the panel discussion session, Christian Onyekachi, a native of Agwa community, said that the major problem the host communities are facing is the selfish activities of the oil companies operating in the area, who failed to put the interests of the host communities in their scheme of things.
He accused them of concentrating only on drilling and milking dry the natural resources belonging to the people without paying attention to their plights, such as bad roads, decaying school structures, lack of electricity and unemployment.
Onyekachi said that the only way to stop illegal oil bunkering and vandalisation of oil installations is for oil companies to begin to live up to their responsibilities by looking into the social needs of the people where they operate.
The event was attended by the Imo State Commissioner for Petroleum, Emeka Ngbudem, present and past members of the Imo State House of Assembly from the areas, traditional rulers, women, youths and students.
Imo: Stakeholders accuse oil companies of neglecting host communities
FG to train 500,000 Nigerians through GSM village model
The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has adopted the GSM village apprenticeship model to train about 500,000 Nigerians within two years.
The Director General for the National Centre for Technology Management, Odusanya Olushola, who represented the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji disclosed this at the launch of ‘The TechAdvantage Nigeria Apprenticeship Workshop’ held in Abuja on Thursday.
The project approved by the government in February 2024 is in partnership with is targeted at empowering 500,000 Nigerians and creating two million jobs in two years.
The GSM Village Apprenticeship Model in Nigeria refers to a training programme designed to provide practical skills and knowledge to individuals interested in becoming mobile phone technicians. This initiative was developed to address the growing demand for skilled technicians capable of repairing and maintaining mobile phones, which are ubiquitous in Nigeria.
“Today, we aim to construct new knowledge about how we learn and how society grows using the GSM village apprenticeships model as a method of learning. We seek to bring new knowledge to society, enabling people to learn new skills and making those skills marketable and useful.
“What we’re promoting is a self-help approach where society learns in a non-conventional way, a form of evangelism where one person learns something and teaches another. This unconventional school allows people to gain practical knowledge, making them more productive within society.
“This initiative, driven by the Minister, has excellent sustainability prospects. The program’s circular flow ensures that funds are generated through training programs, and income earned is reinvested to train others, creating a self-sustaining model,” he said.
NACETEM and TechAdvantage have a close relationship, as the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology initiated the programme, and NACETEM is a partner, focusing on alternative education models to train people in innovation, science, and technology.
Also speaking at the unveiling, the Chief Executive Officer of Sapphital Learning Limited, Mr Amu Ogbeide stated, “We are committed to bridging the skill gap in Nigeria and creating employment opportunities for its citizens. Our apprenticeship programme is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the tech industry.”
The TechAdvantage programme is a response to the country’s high unemployment rate and the need for skilled workers in the technology sector.
By providing online training and apprenticeships, Sapphital aims to reach a large number of Nigerians, especially in rural areas, and equip them with the skills needed to compete in the global tech industry.
“We believe that this programme will not only create jobs but also contribute to the growth of the Nigerian economy,” Ogbeide added.
‘Leaders will be able to provide services without excuses,’ Tinubu hails Supreme Court ruling on LGA autonomy
President Bola Tinubu has expressed happiness at the ruling of the Supreme Court which granted autonomy to the local councils.
The apex court had earlier on Thursday granted full autonomy to the 774 local councils in the country.
In its ruling on a suit filed by the Federal Government, the Supreme Court declared that it is unconstitutional for state governors to withhold funds budgeted for local government administrations.
It held that the federal government should pay any money standing to the credit of the local councils in the Federation Account directly to the local government areas managed by democratically elected officials.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the president noted that Nigerians, especially the poor, would be able to hold their local leaders to account.
READ ALSO: Supreme Court in historic ruling grants local govts full financial autonomy
He said the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the constitutional rights and ideals of local governments regarding financial autonomy, and other salient principles, was significant and further reinforces the effort to enhance Nigeria’s true federal fabric for the country’s development.
Tinubu said: “By this judgement, our people – especially the poor – will be able to hold their local leaders to account for their actions and inactions.
“What is sent to local government accounts will be known, and services must now be provided without excuses.
“My administration instituted this suit because of our unwavering belief that our people must have relief and today’s judgement will ensure that it will be only those local officials elected by the people that will control the resources of the people.
“This judgement stands as a resounding affirmation that we can use legitimate means of redress to restructure our country and restructure our economy to make Nigeria a better place to live in and a fairer society for all of our people.”
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Keep holding public officials accountable – Speaker Abass to Reps press corps
The Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, has said that media plays a significant role in fostering democracy between those in positions of authority and the public, tasking journalists to keep holding public officials to account.
The Speaker made the remarks at the National Assembly on Thursday at the commissioning of the newly renovated Media Centre and the inauguration of the newly elected executive committee members of the House of Representatives Press Corps.
The Speaker, while commending members of the Corps for their services to the Nigerian society through the reportage of the House over the years, urged them to keep the flag flying and ensure objective, balanced and accurate reporting.
He said: “The role of the media within a democracy cannot be overstated. As the fourth estate (of the realm), the media plays a pivotal role in fostering public engagement and upholding democratic values. The cooperation and collaboration between the media and the legislature, as outlined in our House Legislative Agenda, are essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and effective governance. By working together, we can ensure that the public remains well-informed and actively engaged in the democratic process.
“I commend the Press Corps for your dedicated reporting on the activities of parliament. Your efforts to keep the public informed about our work are invaluable. It is essential that your reportage remain well-researched and balanced, providing accurate and fair coverage of our proceedings. This commitment to journalistic integrity helps to maintain public trust and ensures that citizens receive reliable information,” Speaker Abbas said.
Speaking to the issue of the resourcefulness of the media in the process of informing the public and committing the House under his leadership is supporting the Corps, Speaker Abbas acknowledged the need for the provision of a conducive environment and capacity building for effective service delivery.
“A well-resourced Press Centre within parliament is crucial for enabling the media to perform its duties effectively. This renovated Press Centre is yet another evidence of our commitment to providing you with a conducive work environment. I encourage you to make full use of this facility to enhance your reporting and facilitate meaningful dialogue between the legislature and the public.
“Continuous capacity building for the press corps covering the National Assembly is of paramount importance. The House of Representatives is committed to supporting your professional development with the help of our partners. We will work together to provide training programs and resources that will enhance your skills and ensure high-quality reporting on parliamentary activities,” he said.
The Speaker congratulated the newly elected executive committee members and urged them to prioritize the welfare of their colleagues by building on the achievements of the outgoing leadership for their members.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected members of the Executive Committee. Your election signifies the confidence your peers have in your ability to lead with integrity and dedication. As you assume your roles, I urge you to prioritize the unity and welfare of your members. In an era where misinformation and division can easily spread, it is vital that the press corps stands united in its pursuit of truth and public interest.
Earlier, the outgoing Chairman of the House of Representatives Press Corps, Grace Ike applauded Speaker Tajudeen Abbas for providing quality leadership since his election.
She gave the commendation while delivering her valedictory speech after the inauguration of the newly renovated House of Representatives Media Centre and the swearing-in ceremony of the new Executive
While stressing the need for the provision of a fully digitalized Media Centre, Ike averred that: “the inauguration of this edifice- our renovated Media Centre is a testament to the Right Honourable Speaker’s and indeed the leadership of the House’s commitment to our well-being and the importance of a free press in our democracy.
“We are deeply grateful for your generosity and vision. This modernised facility is a beacon of hope for our profession, enabling us to discharge our duties more effectively. Your support is a reminder that a free press and a functioning democracy go hand-in-hand.
Keep holding public officials accountable – Speaker Abass to Reps press corps
Anambra police probe alleged phone robbery by officers
The Anambra State Police Command said it has identified the officers allegedly fingered in a viral video of telephone theft in a community in Otuocha Local Government Area of the state.
In a video that circulated on social media on Wednesday, a resident of the area narrated how police officers from the Otuocha Police Division invaded their houses and forcefully took away mobile sets people were charging.
The voice, who identified himself as a resident of the community, said the heavily armed police officers invaded the locations in a commando-like style, unplugged the telephones from the socket one by one and carted them away for no reason.
According to the voice in the three-minute video, the police officers invaded their community late on Tuesday and carted an undisclosed number of telephones.
He, therefore begged the police authorities in the state to look into the situation and returned the telephones to the owners.
In the video, the residents blocked a major express road in the community and used it to protest the action of the police officers.
The development has generated various reactions from different quarters with residents calling for the probe into the police officers’ actions.
But while reacting to the development in a statement on Thursday, the Anambra State Police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command has identified the officers involved in the act.
Ikenga called on the victims whose telephones were forcefully taken to come forward to help facilitate the necessary action involved in the investigation.
He said, “Anambra State Police Command has intercepted a video of a protest against police action and wishes to state that the police team and the officers mentioned in the video have been identified.
“The Command also invites the victims to come forward to help facilitate the necessary action involved in the investigation.
“To this end, the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, calls for calm and urges citizens to utilise the channels of the complaint against police officers rather than being unruly as seen in the video blocking the express road, thereby infringing on the fundamental rights of others which is the very course citizens want to protect.
“We seek for Police that is civil and professional in discharging their duties. Aggrieved residents should make use of police complaint channels to express any grievances.
“These channels include the CP Monitoring Unit of Command CMU, the Police X-Squad under the State Criminal Investigation Department Police Complaints Bureau or the newly resuscitated Complaint Response Unit under the Police Public Relations Department Awka.
“You can call the Command Control Room at 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer at 08039334002 in the event of any distress. Also download the ‘NPF Rescue Me App’, usable on Android and Apple iOS phones, to make reports. Further details shall be communicated, please.”
Suspected cultists kill vigilante in Rivers community
Gunmen suspected to be cultists have shot dead a member of a local security outfit simply identified as Prince, in the Igwuruta community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State on Wednesday night.
It was gathered that members of the vigilante group, the Onelga Security Planning Advisory Committee codenamed OSPAC had responded to a distress call about a kidnapping in the area when they were ambushed by the gunmen who opened fire on them.
The bullet was said to have hit Prince, who is one of the vigilantes, resulting in his death, while the assailants fled with the speed of light.
A source who pleaded anonymity said the incident caused panic in the area as residents scampered for safety to avoid being hit by a stray bullet.
“From what we heard the OSPAC people rushed to where they said there was a kidnapping going on. So immediately they arrived at the place, some gunmen opened fire and one of their men was shot dead. That is all I can say.”
Our correspondent gathered that the body of the deceased had been evacuated and taken to an undisclosed mortuary.
When contacted, the spokesperson of the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the incident.
“Investigation is ongoing to ascertain what happened and to ensure the culprits are apprehended and prosecuted,” she stated
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NDDC begins repair of East-West Road, demands cooperation
The Niger Delta Development Commission said it has commenced emergency repairs of the failed sections of the East West-Road between Ahoada and Ula-Okobo town in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, who inspected the ongoing repair works at the failed sections of the East-West Road between Ahoada and Ula-Okobo town in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State, appealed to motorists to cooperate with the contractor undertaking the repairs.
This was contained in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Thursday by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, and made available to newsmen
Ogbuku stated that the emergency repairs would restore the link between Rivers and Bayelsa states and observed that the contractor was having challenges with taking construction materials to the bad spots that needed to be fixed.
The NDDC Chief Executive Officer, who was accompanied by other Directors of the Commission, was given an on the site briefing by the engineers of Webster Global Ventures, the construction firm handling the project for the Commission.
Ogbuku, observed that the deplorable state of the road, necessitated the emergency measures the NDDC was taking to immediately restore the road and make it motorable.
He apologised to road users, especially truck drivers, who had been stuck at the bad spot for several days, assuring them that the NDDC would support the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Works, which was constructing huge culverts at the sections that were washed away during the 2022 flood.
He assured that the interventionist agency would complement the efforts of the construction company working for the Ministry of Works to urgently fix the failed and unmotorable sections of the road to restore the links between Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta states.
He said: “We were here a week ago and we saw it was impossible for any vehicle to ply between Rivers and Bayelsa States. After that visit, we promptly engaged a construction firm to urgently fix about 1.5-kilometres that were virtually impassable. Our inspection today has shown that we need to work on more sections of the road.”
The Managing Director of the construction firm handling the repairs, Opeoluwa Adara, assured the NDDC that the company would expedite action on the repair work. He regretted that some of the motorists were making it difficult for them to bring in materials for the repairs.
He promised that the road links to Rivers, Bayelsa and Delta State would soon be restored, noting: “It is challenging but we have been working to stabilise the bad sections and make them motorable.
One of the truck drivers, stuck at Okobo, Malam Sani Ahmed, lamented that he had not been able to move his vehicle for over one week.
He appealed to the federal government and the NDDC to come to their aid by fixing the road, stating that they were at the mercy of criminals who were taking advantage of their helplessness