The Federal Government on Thursday Commissioned the first zoo located in the history of Kogi State North Central Nigeria with a charge on all stakeholders to key into the present administration’s commitment to improving the nation’s economy through tourism.
Speaking at the Commissioning of the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory, (FULZAC), the Conservator General, National Park Service Dr Ibrahim Musa Goni said travel and tourism in Nigeria are estimated to contribute about 3.6% of Nigeria’s GDP annually, which is equal to around 17.3 billion U.S dollars.
He said, ” According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), approximately 180 million people visit AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums each year, contributing about $24 Billion to the US Economy.
“The establishment of this zoo and conservatory demonstrates a moment of hope and pride for our country’s conservation efforts. As a nation rich in natural and cultural diversity, the protection of our natural resources has always been of utmost importance. Therefore, the establishment of this centre holds immense significance.
“I must sincerely commend the visionary leadership of the Federal University Lokoja, led by Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi and his Management team, for recognizing the need to create this centre dedicated to the conservation and preservation of our unique flora and fauna.
“By doing so, they have established an institution that will not only contribute to the academic growth of its students but also serve as a symbol of environmental stewardship and education for the wider community.
He disclosed that the role of zoos and conservatories in the preservation and protection of biodiversity cannot be overstated, adding that they serve as living laboratories, fostering deep understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
The Conservator General opined that through effective collaboration between academia, conservationists and the government, this centre has the potential to lead innovative research, engage in relevant conservation initiatives, and create a platform for public awareness and education.
Dr Goni said, “They can also contribute to the conservation of endangered plant and animal species. These facilities are important educational tools, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn about different species and ecosystems.
“They also serve as genetic reservoirs for rare species, helping to maintain genetic diversity. Additionally, zoos and conservatories promote sustainable tourism. Zoo and wildlife parks are aspects of ex-situ conservation where animals are domesticated and bred to support in situ conservation in National Parks and Protected and Conserved Areas. This is because zoo animals can be reintroduced back into the wild to stem the tide of extinction and disappearance of species.
“I have full confidence that the Federal University Lokoja Zoo and Conservatory will become a symbol of excellence in conservation, where students, researchers, and the general public can come together to celebrate and protect our rich biological heritage, With a team dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability, the possibilities for conservation education, research, and public engagement are unlimited.
” Let us seize this opportunity and work hand in hand to safeguard the nature that makes our country extraordinary. Together, we can ensure a coexistence between humans and nature, securing a Sustainable future for generations to come”.
The Director of the Zoo, Prof Jacqueline Azumi Badaki commended the pragmatic leadership of the institution led by Prof Akinwunmi for his efforts in ensuring that the establishment of the project sees the light of the day.
” Ours is not just a Zoo but also a conservatory Zoo generally is where animals are housed within enclosures replicating their natural habitats. Often the purpose is to display animals to the public, and in some cases, the animals are bred for conservation, education and research purposes.
“The main benefit of any Zoo is the ability to save species from the brink of extinction and start a healthy wild population again. With the ever-changing wild landscape being ripped apart by climate change and habitat loss, captive breeding programs are needed more than ever to assure the survival of some species that cannot survive on their own” she stated.
FG commissions first zoo in Kogi, harps on importance of tourism to Nigeria’s economy
FG commissions first zoo in Kogi, harps on importance of tourism to Nigeria’s economy
Over 1.5m pilgrims ready for Hajj rites in Saudi Arabia
No fewer than 1.5 million pilgrims across the world presently in Saudi Arabia are now set for this year’s Hajj rites which would begin on Friday with movement from Makkah to Muna ahead of the Arafat Day on Saturday.
Specifically, a total of 1,547,295 pilgrims, according to a report by the General Directorate of Passports as quoted by the Saudi Press Agency, came into the country through its air, land and sea ports, as at the end of Monday, June 10 deadline for closure of entry to perform this year’s holy pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the official spokesman for Saudi’s Ministry of Health, Dr Mohammed Al-Abdulaali, has warned that the major challenge facing this year’s Hajj season is the significant rise in temperatures.
Al-Abdulaali advised pilgrims to adhere to the ministry’s health guidelines, including carrying umbrellas, to avoid direct sun exposure, drinking sufficient amounts of water, and taking rest periods between rituals to reduce fatigue and heat stress.
He said these measures aimed to ensure the safety and health of pilgrims during the performance of Hajj rituals.
The spokesperson added that the ministry is making all efforts to provide a healthy and safe environment for pilgrims amid the harsh climatic conditions.
The Saudi Arabian authorities had earlier announced the arrival of approximately 1.2 million pilgrims from various countries around the world for the 2024 Hajj. T
The country’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfig Al-Rabiah also assured that all stages of their journey have proceeded smoothly and that the pilgrims are in excellent health.
Over 1.5m pilgrims ready for Hajj rites in Saudi Arabia
Taraba govt begins payment of compensations to Wukari landowners
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas has commenced the payment of compensations to landowners in Wukari local government council of the state.
The beneficiaries who our reporter learnt number 182, are owners of the land where the Federal University of Wukari, is currently situated.
Recall that the landowners had dragged the state government and the management of the university to the State High Court for alleged refusal to pay compensations for the lands which were acquired from them twelve years ago.
Confirming the commencement of payment, on Thursday, during a telephone interview, the landowner’s lawyer, P.M. Shagnah said the payment is being executed in phases.
He said, “The government of Taraba State under governor Agbu Kefas, has since commenced payment of the long-awaited land compensation to 182 farm owners whose lands were acquired for the establishment of Federal University, Wukari.”
Shagnah, who explained that the governor is committed to paying off the debts acquired by previous regimes, said he has approved and released funds for the commencement of payment to the beneficiaries.
Also confirming the commencement of the payments, the Secretary of the Beneficiary Association, Bawa Ba’aku Bawa Adi, told our reporter that the present government responded to their plight by releasing funds that have since been disbursed to beneficiaries as first instalments.
Some of the beneficiaries who spoke with our reporter narrated their ordeals as a result of the alleged failure of the past administrations to attend to their plights by refusing to pay the compensations.
While lauding the commitment of the current administration towards addressing their plights through the payment of the compensations, they urged the Governor to ensure that all the beneficiaries are settled.
Taraba govt begins payment of compensations to Wukari landowners
Checkpoint not cause of Enugu-Onitsha highway crash – Army
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that the Ugwu Onyeama checkpoint on Enugu-Onitsha expressway, Enugu was not the cause of the accident on Wednesday, June 12.
Four people were reported to have died from the accident while 10 others comprising eight male adults and two females sustained different degrees of injuries.
The military headquarters clarified its stance in a post on X using its handle @HQNigerianArmy on Thursday.
The Army was responding to media reports that claimed its checkpoint was responsible for the accident and the loss of lives, which the Army countered by confirming only two fatalities.
The Army’s post on X states, “The attention of Headquarters 82 Division Nigerian Army has been drawn to the news circulating in some mainstream and social media platforms attributing the Division’s Checkpoint at Ugwu Onyeama as the cause of an unfortunate and tragic accident that claimed 25 lives on 11 June 2024.
“On receipt of the information from an online journalist that sought clarification about the incident, he was informed one-off that the Division does not have a checkpoint there but rather, it has a Location/Base by the roadside to curb the incessant kidnappings the area was hitherto known for.
“This report is inaccurate and full of falsehoods that are meant to tarnish the appreciable efforts of the troops. It is therefore necessary to set the records straight. First, the Division wishes to condole and commiserate with the families whose loved ones were involved in the tragic incident and also pray for the speedy recovery of those injured. The troops only have a base and the barriers used for the checkpoint were removed. Due to the steep gradient of the road, the section has remained problematic since the 1990s before, during, and after the checkpoints were removed.”
The Army also clarified that the accident was caused by an oncoming truck’s brake failure while descending from a slope at the 9th Mile axis ahead of the checkpoint and not at the Army’s checkpoint.
“The accident that occurred yesterday happened about 300m ahead of the soldiers’ base. Preliminary investigation revealed that the accident occurred due to a brake failure of a trailer coming downslope from 9th Mile Axis. The trailer rammed into other incoming vehicles from Enugu and not those coming from the same Axis of the 9th Mile with it. Hence, the crash was a head-on and not a rear collision.
“Thus, the soldiers never stopped any vehicle on the road for any checking but served as a responder to the accident. Also, while the loss of any life is unfortunate, however, only 2 people died at the scene of the accident and not 25 cases being reported.”
The Army further stated it is aware of the efforts of illegal miners and kidnappers operating in the area to get rid of the checkpoint, as such an act would enable them to freely carry out nefarious activities.
“It is disheartening to accuse the military of causing the accident. The Division is not unaware of the efforts of the kidnappers and illegal miners in the area to get rid of the checkpoint. The law-abiding citizens are once again assured of the commitment of the 82 Division Nigerian Army to continue to serve them as the Nigerian Army remains the Peoples’ Army.
“The general public is hereby enjoined to disregard the report as it is not the actual account of what happened. The Division will continue to perform its constitutional roles of protecting lives and property within its Area of Responsibility,” the Army said.
The Federal Road Safety Corps earlier said 25 individuals were rescued from a road accident on the Enugu-Onitsha expressway at Ugwu Onyeama, which occurred on Tuesday.
The agency also said of the “29 individuals involved in the collision, 10 sustained various injuries, while tragically, four lost their lives.”
The Corps Marshal, FRSC Shehu Mohammed, in a statement signed by the corps spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, on Wednesday ordered a comprehensive investigation into the incident and swift legal action against the responsible driver.
Initial reports suggested that excessive speeding was the root cause of the crash, involving a total of seven vehicles.
Ogun govt demolishes shanties along old Sagamu, tollgate road
Ogun State Government on Thursday, commenced the demolition of all shanties and makeshift structures at the old Sagamu Tollgate along the Lagos – Benin Expressway.
The exercise was part of the state’s continuous efforts at having a greener, cleaner, healthier and safer environment as well as discouraging street trading.
Speaking during the exercise, Farook Akintunde, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor and Chairman of the State Taskforce on Environmental Compliance & Enforcement, explained that the exercise aimed to create a cleaner, greener, safer, and healthier environment while also deterring street selling.
Akintunde disclosed that the street traders had been given enough notice to leave the setback.
He warned the traders not to disobey government orders by returning, adding that the government will soon begin landscaping and beautification of the area.
Ogun govt demolishes shanties along old Sagamu, tollgate road
W’Bank doubts CBN’s ability to curb inflation employing rate hikes
The World Bank has expressed concerns that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s monetary policy tightening may not effectively control inflation.
In its Global Economic Prospects report released on Wednesday, the institution noted that one of the significant risks to Nigeria’s economic growth is the failure of these tightening policies to rein in inflation.
“Risks to Nigeria’s growth outlook are substantial, including the possibility that the tightening of monetary policy stops short of reining in inflation,” the World Bank stated.
Despite the CBN’s aggressive interest rate hikes, inflation remains a significant challenge for the country.
The monetary policy rate has increased by 750 basis points since February, reaching 26.25 per cent in May.
However, the World Bank warns that this may not be enough to address the issue.
The report predicts that Nigeria’s economic growth will remain modest, at 3.3 per cent this year and 3.5 per cent in 2025.
The non-oil economy is expected to experience sustained growth, while the oil sector is expected to stabilize as production recovers.
The World Bank also highlights the issue of public debt in sub-Saharan Africa, which is expected to remain elevated over the forecast period.
It noted that “If global interest rates remain high, debt-service costs for countries in the region may rise, increasing the risk of government debt distress.”
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Court affirms jurisdiction to hear Bayero’s rights suit
A Federal High Court in Kano, on Thursday, ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear the human rights violation case filed by the dethroned Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, and senior councillor, Aminu Dan’agundi, following the reinstatement of Emir Muhammad Sanusi II.
The court issued an ex-parte order preventing Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano from reinstating Sanusi until a substantive suit against the reinstatement is resolved.
The order also opposed the abolishment of four emirates—Bichi, Gaya, Karaye, and Rano—under a bill previously passed by the state House of Assembly.
All parties were instructed to maintain the status quo until the suit filed by Sarkin Dawaki Babba and Aminu Babba-Dan’Agundi is determined.
Justice Liman granted the plaintiff/applicant permission to issue and serve their originating motion and other court processes to the sixth defendant (Inspector General of Police) in Abuja, and outside the court’s jurisdiction.
The defendants in the suit include the Kano State Government, the Kano State House of Assembly, the Speaker of the State Assembly, the Kano State Commissioner of Police, the Inspector General of Police, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Security.
Justice Liman said all parties are ordered to maintain status quo ante in the passage and assent of the bill.
“That parties are hereby ordered to maintain status quo ante pending hearing of the fundamental rights application.
“In view of the constitutional and jurisdictional issues apparent on the
in the face of the application, parties shall address the court at the hearing of the fundamental rights application which is fixed for the 3rd of June, 2024.
“That to maintain the peace and security of the state, an Interim Injunction of this Honourable Court is granted restraining the respondents from enforcing, executing, implementing and operationalizing the Kano State Emirate Law Council (Repeal) Law.
“That parties are hereby ordered to maintain status quo ante the passage and assent of the bill into pending the hearing of the fundamental rights application,” he said.
However, when the case resumed on Thursday, Justice Liman, relying on Section 42 Sub-section 1 of the Constitution, said the court has powers of jurisdiction to hear the case.
The judge noted, “What I find intriguing is the respondents’ total reliance on this case of Gongola, whereas Section 42 Sub-section 1 of the Constitution has clearly spelt out the jurisdictional powers of the Federal High Court to preside over such a case.
“My respectful view is that the case of Tukur against the Gongola is indistinguishable from the present case. Section 42 Sub-section 1 and Section 32 of the Constitution has vested a power on our court to decide on this matter.”
In continuation of the case the plaintiff’s counsel, Chukwuson Ojukwu, argued that the matter is ripe for hearing as to the main issues of the invalidity of the reappointment of a new Emir and the deposition of 15th Emir Aminu Ado Bayero.
But A. G Wakil insisted that the new motion seeking to continue hearing on the Chieftaincy Affairs issues was not part of the original summons and is a different application outside the matter of Human Rights Violation and the jurisdictional powers of the court, which the court had decided.
The judge explained that the matter was adjourned till Thursday, June 13, 2024, for only ruling and nothing else.
Justice Liman adjourned the case till June 14, 2024, noting that the matter was too sensitive to linger.
Bandits leader Buharin Yadi, others killed along Kaduna-Katsina border
The Nigerian military have reportedly killed one terrorist, Buharin Yadi, said to be one of the deadliest bandit leaders terrorising the North in the last decade.
The news of his assassination was met with jubilation among Kaduna-Katsina border communities.
The Overseeing Commissioner, Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna State, Samuel Aruwan said on Thursday that the troops of Sector 6 Operation Whirl Punch rained down fire on the kingpin known as Buhari Alhaji Halidu (alias Buharin Yadi) and his cohorts, and ended their reign of terror.
Aruwan narrated: “Halidu was neutralized in a fierce battle with the troops (under the coordination of their Commander, also the General Officer Commanding of One Division Nigerian Army, Major General MLD Saraso) which took place around Idasu forest at the boundaries between Giwa LGA of Kaduna State and Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State.
“The troops began the covert operation in response to intelligence reports on terrorists’ movement from Samunaka, Saulawa area of Katsina State.
“On advancing to Samunaka, the troops found the settlement destroyed and cattle killed, evidence of recent criminal activity by the bandits.
“A ferocious battle quickly followed, as approaching terrorists were pounded with artillery rounds at Hayin Almajiri. The troops then fought bravely through an ambush, to attain their objective. Initial assessments indicate that at least 36 bandits were eliminated in the engagement.
“It was eventually verified that one of those neutralized was Kachalla Buharin Yadi. Kachalla Buhari Alhaji Halidu (also known as Buharin Yadi or Buhari Janar) and the brigands under his command had been unleashing terror on citizens in Kidandan/Galadimawa general areas of Giwa LGA, Sabon Birni/Kerawa general areas of Igabi LGA, other locations in nearby Sabuwa LGA of Katsina State, and indeed some parts of Niger and Zamfara States.
READ ALSO: FCT police boosts security over alleged bandits’ invasion
“Buharin Yadi was involved in large-scale cattle rustling, arms trading and drug trafficking. He had led his gang in the pillaging of communities and the slaughter and kidnapping of thousands of citizens in Kaduna and neighboring states.
“The merciless bandit was also known to have links with other deadly terrorist groups in the Northeast and Northwest.
“The breakthrough brings to an end a manhunt by security forces for this terrorist, which stretched more than five years. The news of his demise spread like wildfire, triggering massive relief and widespread celebrations among locals spanning Kaduna and Katsina States
“Receiving the report, Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani expressed his elation at the development, which he described as a pointer to the bravery, pro-activeness and sheer efficiency of the troops involved.
“The Governor commended the GOC, Major General Saraso for his sterling leadership, and lauded the troops for the comprehensive victory. Governor Sani reassured security forces in Kaduna State of his unflinching support and the continued collaborative stance of the Government.
“Members of the public are hereby informed that some of the terrorists sustained gunshot injuries during the encounter. Citizens in the general area and beyond are therefore enjoined not to render assistance (medical or otherwise) to individuals carrying suspicious injuries, but to immediately report such to security agencies.
“The Kaduna State Security Operations Room is available 24 hours a day to receive reports of this nature on the phone lines 09034000060 and 08170189999.Special operations against bandits continue in the general area. Citizens are urged to continue to volunteer supportive information to the security forces and the government.”
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Abia: Military arrested over 100 suspects over killing of soldiers — DHQ
The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, says troops have arrested over 100 suspects in connection with the attack by the Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network, IPOB/ESN, on a military checkpoint in Abia State that claimed the lives of five service personnel.
Disclosing this on Thursday, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, said troops also released those not culpable in the attack following preliminary investigations.
Buba revealed that nine soldiers were killed in June alone by non-state actors across the country.
He, however, did not provide the exact number of suspects in custody which he said are assisting the military in their operations.
TVN recalls that suspected IPOB/ESN separatists had on 30 May 2024 attacked a military checkpoint at Obikabia Junction in Obingwa local government areas adjourning Aba metropolis in Abia State.
The military high command later in a statement confirmed the death of five soldiers and six civilians in the attack and vowed to retaliate fiercely.
General Buba briefing newsmen two weeks after the attack, said troops conducted several intelligence-based operations that led to the discovery and destruction of several IPOB/ESN terrorist camps across the region such as at Igboro Forest in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State among others.
He said, “Several arrests were made from the raids with those found to be culpable still in detention. Surely, there is intelligence value to the raids and arrests that were made. Those in detention are assisting troops to locate other camps, sleeper cells and high-profile individuals involved in the activities of the terrorist group.”
Abia: Military arrested over 100 suspects over killing of soldiers — DHQ
Ogun partners community leaders to tackle Gender-Based Violence
To curb the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence in Ogun State, the government has partnered with community leaders in the Ogun East Senatorial District to raise awareness and promote advocacy on the issue.
During a sensitisation programme organised by the Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Social Development for community gatekeepers in Ijebu-Ode on Thursday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs Ayotunde Lawal, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that aim to build a safer future for all citizens.
Lawal emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with community leaders to curtail violence against women, girls, and boys, and assured that the state government is making concerted efforts to improve the lives of its citizens.
“As government, we will continue to give encouragement and support to all our gatekeepers within each community, whose mission tallies with our agenda of ‘Building Our Future Together’ and making life more meaningful for citizens, irrespective of their geographical location, gender, religious, or political affiliation,” she said.
Earlier, the Director of Women Empowerment Services, Mrs Wonuola Kassim, highlighted the crucial role community leaders play in reaching and impacting their people, noting that their partnership is essential in reducing GBV cases.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of Olorituns, Ijebu-Ode Council, Chief Adeola Alausa, praised the state government for organizing the programme, describing it as timely and vital in combating GBV.
He called for collective efforts and continued government support to end social vices in society.
In her lecture titled “Understanding Gender-Based Violence and Response,” the Ministry’s Gender Vocal Officer, Mrs. Mariam Afolabi, detailed the different forms of violence, including physical, mental, and psychological abuse.
She noted that sexual assaults can have devastating effects on survivors’ emotions, resulting in anger, fear, and sadness, and encouraged both community leaders and survivors to speak up.