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TUC insists on N250,000 benchmark as minimum wage

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The Trade Union Congress (TUC) is urging for expedited negotiations on a new minimum wage in Nigeria.
Festus Osifo, TUC Secretary General, made this call on Tuesday, when he addressed the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Women Commission’s annual convention, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
Lessons from 2019:
Osifo acknowledged the lengthy process surrounding the previous minimum wage increase. Negotiations starting in 2017 only saw a new minimum wage implemented in 2019. He assured the audience that unions were working to avoid a similar delay.
Fast-Tracking the Process:
The TUC began negotiations in January 2024 and submitted their proposed minimum wage in June. However, President Buhari opted for broader consultation with governors, local governments, and the private sector.
Negotiations Behind the Scenes:
Osifo stressed that the apparent media silence surrounding the negotiations doesn’t indicate inactivity. Instead, unions are engaged in “internal work” to ensure the new minimum wage proposal caters to “the poorest of the poor.” This behind-the-scenes work aims to present a comprehensive bill to the National Assembly soon.
Read Also: Presidency reassures Nigerians on Samoa Agreement, denies LGBTQ+ rights concerns
N250,000 Benchmark Remains:
He reiterated the TUC’s stance on an ideal minimum wage of N250,000, a figure he said remains their benchmark despite ongoing negotiations and consultations.
Uncertain Timeline:
While Osifo expresses optimism about a swift resolution, the timeline for a new minimum wage remains unclear. The consultation process initiated by the President could lengthen the negotiation phase.
Focus on the Vulnerable:
The TUC emphasizes their commitment to securing a minimum wage that uplifts the lives of Nigeria’s most vulnerable citizens. Their focus on internal work suggests a data-driven approach to support this goal within the proposed legislation.
His statement reads, “The minimum wage negotiations cannot be dead. The 2019 minimum wage (that has expired) took about two years to see the light of day. We started the negotiations in 2017.
“We promised you when we started in January (this year) that we will ensure this one is fast – tracked for us not to be in the conundrum that we were in 2019 which took two years.
“So where we are today, we submitted the divergent position in June, when we did that you know clearly that Mr President came out to say that he wanted to consult across board which is the governors, Local Government chairmen, organised private sector and labour, so we are doing some level of reach-out and conversations.
“So that what will be submitted to the National Assembly will actually be a minimum wage that will cater for the poorest of the poor, so for the fact that in the media we are not shouting, we are doing some level of internal work so that this bill will be submitted in earnest soon. We still insist on the N250,000 benchmark as ideal minimum wage.”
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Choosing The Right Vape Juice In 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

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Vaping has evolved significantly over the past decade, and 2024 is no exception. With an ever-expanding variety of vape juices available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This article will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect vape juice for disposable vapes in 2024, considering factors such as flavor, nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, and brand reputation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vaper, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Vape Juice Components

Before diving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand the basic components of vape juice:

1. Propylene Glycol

PG is a thin, odorless liquid that provides a throat hit similar to smoking traditional cigarettes. It’s also a great carrier for flavorings, making it a key component in many vape juices.

2. Vegetable Glycerin

VG is a thicker, sweeter liquid that produces large vapor clouds. It’s less harsh on the throat and is ideal for those who prefer smooth hits.

3. Flavorings

Vape juices come in a wide range of flavors, from fruits and desserts to menthol and tobacco. These flavors are food-grade and safe for inhalation.

4. Nicotine

Nicotine is an optional component in vape juices. It comes in various strengths, allowing users to customize their experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Vape Juice

1. Flavor Preference

The flavor is arguably the most important factor when selecting a vape juice. In 2024, there are countless flavors to choose from, including:

  • Fruity Flavors: Strawberry, mango, apple, and mixed berries.
  • Dessert Flavors: Vanilla custard, chocolate, and caramel.
  • Tobacco Flavors: Classic tobacco, menthol, and Cuban cigars.
  • Beverage Flavors: Coffee, cola, and energy drinks.

Try sampling different flavors to find what suits your palate best. Many vape shops offer sampler packs or testers for this purpose.

2. Nicotine Strength

Nicotine strength in vape juice ranges from 0 mg (nicotine-free) to 50 mg (for high-strength nicotine salts). Here’s a general guideline:

  • 0 mg: For those who enjoy vaping without nicotine.
  • 3 mg to 6 mg: Suitable for light smokers or those who are gradually reducing their nicotine intake.
  • 12 mg to 18 mg: Ideal for moderate smokers.
  • 24 mg to 50 mg: For heavy smokers or those who prefer a strong nicotine hit.

Choose a strength that matches your current smoking habits or your desired vaping experience.

3. PG/VG Ratio

The PG/VG ratio affects the throat hit and vapor production. Common ratios include:

  • 50/50: Balanced throat hit and vapor production.
  • 70/30: More throat hit, less vapor. Ideal for flavor chasers.
  • 30/70: Less throat hit, more vapor. Perfect for cloud chasers.

Determine your preference for throat hit and vapor production to choose the right PG/VG ratio.

4. Brand Reputation

With the increasing number of vape juice brands in 2024, it’s crucial to select a reputable one. Look for brands that:

  • Conduct Third-Party Testing: Ensures the safety and quality of their products.
  • Have Positive Reviews: Check online reviews and forums for customer feedback.
  • Offer Transparency: Provide clear information about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.

5. Price and Value

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in high-quality vape juice can enhance your vaping experience and ensure safety. Compare prices and consider the value for money, especially if you’re vaping regularly.

Trends in Vape Juice for 2024

1. Nicotine Salts

Nicotine salts provide a smoother throat hit even at higher nicotine strengths. They’re ideal for those who need a quick nicotine fix without the harshness of freebase nicotine.

2. CBD and THC Vape Juices

With the growing acceptance of cannabis products, CBD and THC vape juices are becoming more popular. These offer therapeutic benefits and are available in various flavors and strengths.

3. Organic and Natural Ingredients

Health-conscious vapers are increasingly opting for vape juices made with organic and natural ingredients. These products avoid synthetic chemicals and artificial flavorings.

4. Customizable Vape Juice Kits

Some brands offer DIY kits that allow users to mix their vape juice. This is perfect for those who want complete control over flavor, nicotine strength, and PG/VG ratio.

Tips for First-Time Buyers

1. Start with a Small Quantity

If you’re new to vaping or trying a new flavor, start with a small bottle. This allows you to test the vape juice without committing to a large quantity.

2. Visit Local Vape Shops

Local vape shops often have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right product. They may also offer samples so you can try them before you buy.

3. Check for Allergen Information

If you have allergies, check the ingredient list for potential allergens. Some vape juices may contain ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions.

4. Read Reviews and Ratings

Online reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality and flavor of vape juices. Look for feedback from other vapers to make an informed decision.

Safety Considerations

1. Store Vape Juice Properly

Store your vape juice in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

2. Avoid Expired Products

Check the expiration date before using vape juice. Using expired products can affect the flavor and safety of your vaping experience.

3. Be Aware of Your Body’s Response

Pay attention to how your body reacts to different vape juices. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

Choosing the right vape juice in 2024 involves considering various factors such as flavor, nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, brand reputation, and price. With a wide range of options available, it’s essential to take the time to find a product that suits your preferences and needs. By staying informed about the latest trends and following the tips provided in this guide, you can enhance your vaping experience and enjoy it safely.

 

 

To tackle food scarcity lawmakers to distribute FG’s 2,700 fertiliser trucks to states

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The Federal Government plans to send 60 trucks of fertiliser to each of the states of the federation as a way of tackling the food crisis in the country.
This was disclosed by the Senate sequel to a motion moved by Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West and co-sponsored by Senator Ali Ndume of Borno South at plenary.
The motion was titled: “Urgent Need to Address Food Insecurity and Market Exploitation of Consumables In Nigeria.”
The Federal Lawmakers encouraged the Federal Government to expedite effort in the fertiliser distribution.
Thus, each of the 109 senators will receive two trucks of fertiliser for distribution to farmers in their constituents, while the 360 members of the House of Representatives will get one truck each to distribute in their constituencies.
Karimi noted that in the last few months, the price of goods and household consumables had been on an abysmal rise in the country, leading to a high rate of inflation, weakened buying power, and general worsening of living conditions of the vast majority of Nigerians.
He averred that the latest data released by Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics showed that “food inflation in the country skyrocketed to 40.66 per cent on a year-on-year basis, a significant increase from the 24.82 per cent recorded in May 2023.
“The current market price of food items such as beans, maize, rice paddy, yam, tomatoes, and onions, which initially rose by about 40 per cent after the removal of petroleum subsidy, has now increased to over 100 – 300 per cent without any attributable reason for the increase in prices.
READ ALSO: CBN boosts fight against food insecurity with N100bn, 2m bags of fertilisers
“Although insecurity in food-producing regions, bad roads, increase in the cost of transportation attributable to the removal of fuel subsidy and depreciation of the value of naira are possible factors that have contributed to the increase in price of food items, household commodities, and consumables; the percentage of increase in cost of transportation and some other factors listed above is significantly less than the percentage increase in the current prices of goods all ever the country.
“There is a need to be more pragmatic about addressing food insecurity, curbing herder-farmer crises, kidnapping for ransom, and terrorism, and ensure the development of a viable National Commodity Board to regulate the price of grains and ensure the elimination of artificial contributions to food and commodity inflation in Nigeria.”
In his contribution, Senator Ndume lamented that this was the first time Nigeria was listed as one of the countries battling food insecurity.
Ndume said: “Currently there are four countries, including Sudan and some others, that are facing very serious insecurity. Nigeria is added to this list this year by the International Rescue Committee as one of the spots for food insecurity action against hunger. World Food Programme also indicated that over 32 million people are expected to face a critical hunger crisis and emerging level between and August.
“I don’t know about some other colleagues, but here in the North, we have started seeing it visibly. This is the first time we are experiencing this level of hunger. It’s the first time Nigeria is being listed as one of the countries with food insecurity.”
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Access Bank plans free fibroid surgery for 100 women

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Access Bank’s Retail Banking Team will be conducting free fibroid surgery for 100 women across the country.

A statement by the group on Tuesday said it was part of the activities lined up for its Project 111 second Fibroid Awareness Campaign across the country.

Project 111 is a fibroid-focused initiative to treat one woman at a time, change her family, and by extension, generations to follow.

Uterine leiomyomas or fibroids are benign growths that can be extremely large and cause substantial discomfort, including bright red vaginal bleeding, constipation, bloating, and severe pelvic and low back pain that interferes with women’s daily functioning and child-bearing capability.

It read, “The campaign, which runs all through the month of July 2024, will kick start with a webinar aimed at creating awareness of fibroid among the female populace. And it will be spearheaded by dedicated team members of the bank’s retail group committed to seeing the success of the initiative, against all odds.

“The initiative comes on the heels of the general lack of awareness on the part of women as highlighted in key statistics that 70-80% of women will develop fibroid at some point in their lifetime, but only 38% were aware of the available treatment. These statistics emphasize the importance of Project 111, which focuses on creating awareness and support for women who struggle with the issues around fibroid and its effects.”

Deputy Managing Director of Retail, Chizoma Okoli, said Access Bank believed that its responsibility extends beyond banking, adding that the bank was dedicated to the well-being of its customers and communities.

“This campaign is a testament to our commitment to supporting women’s health and ensuring they have the information and resources they need to lead healthy lives.

“Project 111 was officially launched in 2022 when we provided more than 100 free fibroid surgeries in five geopolitical zones to directly touch over 4,000 lives while creating a ripple effect of positive change with over 16,000 impacted lives.

“This year, we are raising the bar of this social responsibility, targeting 100,000 women, providing 500 women with free diagnostic tests, and aiding 100 women in need of surgeries.

“We have a dedicated website, which provides articles on fibroids, information on partner hospitals, as well as up-to-date information for individuals about the initiative,” Okoli concluded.

Group Head, Consumer Banking, Njideka Esomeju, said, “As part of our kick-off activities to flag off the second Fibroid campaign, we will be having free Fibroid screenings and community health talks across 20 states. We will also have a webinar to listen to and address women affected by Fibroids and other related health issues.

“When we launched in 2022, we had a webinar addressing women affected by fibroids and in efforts to be at the forefront of public support for women’s health in Nigeria, we began the ‘Wear White Campaign’ in July last year during the Fibroid Awareness Month. In this pilot phase, the awareness and education campaign reached 17,266 women across 33 countries, with 156 women given access to proper diagnosis, assessment, and treatment recommendations.”

One of the beneficiaries of the health initiative Hannatu Botsha, shared her testimony.

In her words,” I have come back with my mouth full of gratitude, I can’t thank this Retail team enough. I came across the free fibroid surgery in 2022 and was reluctant to apply because I thought it was for customers only, it took me days to make up my mind and give it a trial. I got a call from Oyindamola Oyebola (one of the staff in the dedicated team)on the 9th of February 2024 to ask if I was still interested in the surgery since she sent an email I did not respond to.

“I saw that call as a sign from God because I was bleeding and having pains, plus feeling movements in my abdomen. I went to the hospital and got all the requirements from them, and after a month, the doctor called me to come for an all-expense surgery by the Access Bank Retail team.

“Surgery was done on 29th March, and I came out victorious and clean after all the scary gist I heard about fibroid surgery.”

NPAN demands urgent action from Nigerian govt over abducted Kaduna journalists, families

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The Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) has called on the Federal Government to take immediate action to secure the release of two Kaduna-based journalists and their families who were abducted over the weekend.
According to NPAN, Abdulgafar Alabelewe and AbdulRaheem Aodu, journalists working in Kaduna, were abducted alongside their families by bandits in a late-night raid on their homes. While details remain unclear, one family member reported the attackers to be heavily armed and shooting indiscriminately.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NPAN President Kabiru Yusuf described the abduction as a “condemnable event” and called on the government to “deploy all necessary security assets at its disposal” to ensure the safe return of the journalists and their families.
Yusuf said, “The Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria is concerned over the safety of Messers Abdulgafar Alabelewe and Mr. AbdulRaheem Abdu, the Kaduna state’s correspondents of The Nation and Blueprint newspapers, respectively, who were abducted last weekend.
READ ALSO:Nigerian journalist cries out, alleges threat to life over reports on Kaduna conflicts
“More worrying is the prolonged silence from their abductors, who seized the journalists along with members of their families, including wives and children. The trauma induced on both their biological and professional families by this condemnable event, is better imagined.
“We call on the Federal Government to ensure the safe return of the journalists and their families, by deploying all the necessary security assets at its disposal.”
The abduction has raised concerns about the safety of journalists operating in Nigeria, particularly in areas with high levels of banditry and violence. NPAN’s statement emphasizes the chilling effect such incidents can have on press freedom and the vital role journalists play in society.
NPAN’s demand for swift government action reflects the urgency of the situation. The families of the abducted individuals are undoubtedly facing immense distress, and time is critical to securing their safe release.
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Indiscriminate dissolution of institutions’ governing boards illegal

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The Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities has urged stakeholders within the university system to collaborate in addressing challenges facing the sector.

Chairman of COPSUN, Senator Joshua Lidani, made this statement in Lagos on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the seventh biennial conference of the Committee of Pro-Chancellors of State-Owned Universities in Nigeria.

The conference theme was ‘Effective University Governance: Role of Stakeholders.’

Lidani, who is also the Pro-Chancellor of Gombe State University, revealed that the theme covers various governance issues within the university system.

He mentioned several challenges currently affecting the university and tertiary education sectors, such as corrupt practices, impersonation, irregular exam centres, inadequate funding, and the proliferation of universities.

Additionally, he expressed concerns about the discriminatory and premature dissolution of governing councils and boards of tertiary educational institutions, along with delays in their reconstitution.

“The indiscriminate and premature dissolution of governing councils and boards of tertiary educational institutions, coupled with delays in their reconstitution, not only constitute illegal acts but also create significant administrative vacuums that lead to various anomalies. The incessant strike actions by ASUU and other labour unions have had profound consequences on stability, quality, and standards. The proliferation of universities and inadequate funding further exacerbate these challenges.

“While this conference alone may not fully resolve these issues, it serves to raise public awareness about the threats posed to good governance, standards, and quality within the tertiary educational system. It is imperative for stakeholders to recognize the depth of these problems. Failing to address them promptly could lead to the deterioration of our education system, undermining trust from other nations. The sooner we acknowledge and resolve these challenges, the better.

“I have no doubt that this conference can chart a path forward and provide guidance on how stakeholders can effectively contribute to enhancing educational standards in the country,” he said.

Chairman of the opening ceremony, and former Chief of Staff to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, encouraged the pro-chancellors to formulate action plans to elevate their institutions to the level of competence and attractiveness seen in federal and private universities.

Gambari said that by doing so, universities would retain top faculty and staff, thereby attracting the best students from the pool of eligible candidates.

“State-owned universities should strategically carve out specific niches that leverage their unique comparative advantages to enhance their position in the educational landscape.

“Successfully achieving this establishes a foundation for creating and gaining recognition for their brand,” he said.

The keynote address was given by Prof. Nuhu Yaqub.

Also speaking, Emeritus Prof. Julius Okojie emphasised the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership among Vice-Chancellors of universities.

He stated that effective university governance could be achieved through productive collaboration among stakeholders.

The chairman of the national planning committee was Prof. Deji Omole, while the chairman of the local planning committee, was the Vice-Chancellor, of Lagos State University, Ojo, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello.

The conference will end on July 12, 2024.

Oyo targets local, foreign tourists

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Oyo State Government, on Tuesday, said its maiden edition of the 2024 World Egungun/Fuji/Amala Festival, tagged “Our Culture, Our Heritage”, will target the expansion of the state’s economy through cultural tourism.

The state Commissioner for Tourism and Culture, Wasiu Olatunbosun, gave this indication in a statement by the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Media, Suleiman Olanrewaju, in Ibadan, the state capital.

He said the festival would be a rich package of the cultural potential and heritage of the state and is intended to attract both local and foreign tourists for investment opportunities in line with the vision of Governor Makinde.

Olatunbosun said, “Masquerades hold deep historical significance, embodying the spirit of resilience and unity, which defines the state’s identity and is a testament to the enduring legacy of Oyo’s traditions, while the state also produced Fuji greats, including the late Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, Iyanda Sawaba, Rasheed Ayinde Merenge, Abass Akande Obesere, Saheed Osupa and Taye Currency, to mention a few.

“The Egungun/Fuji/Amala Festival aligned with Governor Makinde’s Omituntun 2.0 agenda, which has incorporated tourism for the expansion of the state’s economy.”

The commissioner, who noted that the cultural event would be held on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at the Race Course, Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, said it also will feature major masquerades offering a dynamic showcase of culture and dance, as well as music, and a savoury flavour of Amala with Gbegiri, Eko and Moin Moin cuisines.

He said, “The maiden edition of the World Egungun Festival will be held on Thursday at the Race Course, Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Ibadan. The festival will be the first of its kind in the state, South-West and probably Nigeria, and it is also going to be an annual event.

“We are going to make sure that we improve on whatever we do this year. Our target is to get it enlisted by UNESCO just like we did for the Sango Festival, and one of the criteria is for us to do the programme seamlessly for a minimum of five years.

“I believe strongly that we have laid a very strong foundation and we are helping the Engineer of Modern Oyo State, the governor himself, to also make another first in this regard.

“We are going to have Egungun, Fuji and also Amala on parade. We believe that the state should start doing something to recognise what Baba Barrister did in the area of Fuji’s creation. So, we are giving him a posthumous award. We also adopted all his songs as our official songs for the event.

“Also, we believe that we should also create a platform where we can promote upcoming artistes who are looking for such platforms to perform. So, we decided to use the day to accommodate them so that they can have the opportunity to showcase their talents.
We have discussed with the food vendors and the official foods that will be served include Amala and Abula soup, Moinmoin and Eko and Akara.

“Fuji legend, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, an indigene of the state, will also be honoured with a posthumous award in appreciation of his lasting legacy in promoting Fuji music to the world.”

Speaking on security before and during the festival, the commissioner assured the attendees of safety, stating that Governor Makinde’s security architecture has ensured the effective security of lives and property in the state in the last five years.

Nigerian farmers happy with creation of Livestock Development Ministry – AFAN

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All Farmers Association of Nigeria has said that the creation of the Livestock Development Ministry by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will bring joy to its members nationwide.
Femi Oke, the South West Chairman of AFAN disclosed this in an interview with Channels Television on Wednesday.
His comment comes as President Tinubu announced the creation of the Livestock Development Ministry on Tuesday.
Oke said the creation of the ministry stems from agriculture stakeholders’ recommendation to the federal government.
He explained that the Livestock Ministry would lead to the end of the age-long farmers-herders conflict and banditry in Nigeria.
“It is not new news to stakeholders in the agriculture sector. Some time ago we had a meeting in Abuja on livestock and that was one of our conclusions to the federal government. It is to ease the bottleneck neck of the Ministry of Agriculture. For years now we have been hearing of farmer-herders conflict, and we now decided that the agriculture ministry should be decentralized.
“It is a welcome development to we farmers. It is a joy to farmers.
“We believe the ministry’s creation will bring to an end farmers-herders conflicts and banditry,” he said.
Similarly, Ayuba Rano, the National Secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Foodstuff and Cattle Dealers in a Channel TV interview on Wednesday said the development will bring a solution to food insecurity in Nigeria.
“The president has given full attention to livestock development, which is a major challenge to food security.
Fulani socio-cultural group, Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, has been at the forefront in championing the call for the creation of a Livestock ministry.
Meanwhile, some Nigerians have kicked against the ministry establishment, stating that it would further increase the cost of governance.
This is as development further increased ministries under Tinubu government from 49 to 50
Nigerian farmers happy with creation of Livestock Development Ministry – AFAN

Plateau holds LG election October 9

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Plateau State has fixed October 9, 2024, for the conduct of local government elections.

The Chairman of the state Independent Electoral Commission, Plangji Cishak, disclosed this on Wednesday during an ongoing meeting with leaders of political parties held at the commission’s headquarters in Jos, the state capital.

Plangji said the council poll would be conducted across the 17 local government areas of the state, which are currently under the management of Transition Implementation Committee Chairmen.

Details later…

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Address looming food insecurity now – Senate to Nigerian Govt

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The Senate has urged the Federal Government to, as a matter of urgency, initiate measures to tackle the impending food insecurity in the country.
It also urged the government to outline measures put in place to combat the situation and address Nigerians on it.
The Senate’s resolution followed the adoption of a motion on the urgent need to address food insecurity and market exploitation of consumables in Nigeria at plenary.
The motion was sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi (APC– Kogi) and Senator Ali Ndume (APC-Borno).
Leading the debate, Karimi said in the last few months, the price of goods and household consumables in Nigeria had been on an all-time high.
According to him, this was leading to a high rate of inflation, weakening purchasing power and affecting the living conditions of the vast majority of Nigerians.
He said the latest data by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed that food inflation in the country skyrocketed to 40.66 per cent on a year-on-year basis, representing a significant increase from the 24.82 per cent recorded in May 2023.
Karimi said the current market price of food items such as beans, maize, rice paddy, yam, tomatoes, and onions which initially rose by about 40 per cent after the removal of petroleum subsidy had increased to between 100 per cent and 300 per cent with no attributable reason for the increase in prices.
He said insecurity in food-producing regions, bad roads, increase in cost of transportation, depreciation of the value of Naira had been identified as possible factors contributing to increase in price of food items and other consumables.
He, however ,said that a greater percentage of the increase in prices of food items and consumables were not only responsible for the factors, rather the greed of merchants, traders, and retailers to make supernormal profits.
“Note that there is a general attitude of get rich quickly or get rich by all means.
“This is leading many Nigerians to jettison being their brother’s keeper” and exploiting one another to make abnormal profits.
“This attitude has been justified on the basis that many members of the political class, technocrats, and corporate elites have helped themselves with public funds without any repercussions in law.
”Nigerian traders have thus resorted to price overcharging to maximize profits,” he said.
Address looming food insecurity now – Senate to Nigerian Govt