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Tinubu mourns Veteran Journalist, Sidi Ali

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May 2, 2024

Tinubu mourns Veteran Journalist, Sidi Ali

President Bola Tinubu has extended his condolences to the family and associates of Second Republic legislator and ace journalist, Sidi Ali.

Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) disclosed this in a statement Wednesday.

Ngelale recalled that the chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former member of the House of Representatives passed away last Thursday.

The late statesman was a prolific writer, publishing 19 books and numerous articles. Some of his notable works include, ‘A Trip to Timbuktu’ (1965); ‘Corruption in High Society’, and ‘The Power of Power on Muhammad Ribadu, Former Defence Minister’ (1982).

Extolling the contributions of Honourable Ali to the country, President Tinubu affirmed that his role as a journalist and information manager helped Nigeria at a critical time in the life of the nation.

The President prayed for Allah’s mercy on the soul of the departed while condoling with the government and people of Kano State over the loss.

NEPL/Seplat JV, Edo State Sign Tree Planting Agreement

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May 2, 2024

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NEPL/Seplat JV, Edo State Sign Tree Planting Agreement

The NNPC Exploration and Production Ltd/Seplat Energy Joint Venture and the Edo State Government have signed an agreement that will see the state government allocate 6,000 hectares of land from its protected forest reserves to enable a large-scale tree planting initiative by Seplat Energy Plc.

This is in furtherance to the Seplat Tree4Life Initiative and the Edo State Government’s identification of the need to increase forest cover and carbon sequestration efforts within the region.

Seplat Energy has been selected as the partner to implement this reforestation project, which aims to plant millions of indigenous trees on the allocated land over the next five (5) years. This project represents a significant investment in environmental conservation and sustainable development for the state.

Speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, which happened in Edo State Government House, the Managing Director, Seplat West Limited, Seplat Energy, Ayodele Olatunde, said the partnership will contribute in the global efforts around mitigating the effects of climate change, whilst providing economic, social, health and other environmental benefits to the region.

“This will stir more advocacy as far as climate change is concerned and put the Edo State Government with the Seplat JV on the map as change agents. The partnership is well aligned with our Tree4Life Initiative and has the capacity to boost our economy and the environment; advance our soil health and drive carbon capture; preserve our ecosystem; enhance biodiversity; create jobs; conserve our forests; and promote physical and mental wellbeing of our people,” Olatunde said.

The Commissioner for Environment & Sustainability, Edo State, Joshua Omokhodion, said the synergy between Edo State and the Seplat JV is a huge attempt at mitigating the impacts of climate change in Nigeria. “Beyond the economics of this move, the science of it is very important to us because it is an attempt to deliberately create an ambience that will be conducive for humans and other creatures here.”

The Director, External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat Energy, Chioma Afe, in her address, thanked the Edo State Government for partnering with the NEPL/Seplat JV on this sustainable journey of reforestation. She said: “This will drive forward our shared goals of environmental conservation and sustainable land use.

“These 6,000 hectares of land being allocated today, we believe, will provide a major boost to efforts at increasing tree cover and also to sequester carbon in our region. We believe also that this will not only tackle climate change, but will promote the local economy as well as local wildlife. The agreement demonstrates the NEPL/Seplat JV strong commitment to supporting impactful environmental projects.

The Managing Director, NEPL, Nicolas Foucart, represented by Mr. Uzoma Ezulu, DM Operations Management Seplat, NEPL, said the partnership between the state government and NEPL/Seplat JV is a laudable response to the global warming crisis. “The world is turning around for the worst; human activities in the name of development have done more harm than good to the environment. The Tree4Life project, therefore, is a conservative effort for all of us,” he said. Teasoo Consulting Limited was also among the facilitators of the agreement signing ceremony.

Centre tasks Tinubu on life saving measures for Nigerians workers

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May 1, 2024

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Centre tasks Tinubu on life saving measures for Nigerians workers

The Center for Social Justice (CSJ) has urged President Bola Tinubu to use the occasion of the international workers day to reflect on life saving measure that would put smiles on the face of Nigerian workers.

Lead Director, CSJ, Eze Onyekpere pointed out that well paid workers working in a safe and healthy environment are the best contributors to national development.

He therefore urged the present administration of President Tinubu to prioritize the well being of Nigerian workers.

He said,”As we join the rest of the world to celebrate International Labor Day 2024, Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) recalls that the theme of the 2024 celebration focuses on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate. It is a fundamental aphorism that motivated, well paid workers working in a safe and healthy environment are the best contributors to national development. Therefore, safeguarding the wellbeing of workers in Nigeria will enhance the level of productivity of the workforce and this in turn guarantees positive economic growth.

“We note with deep regret that Nigerian workers have over the years been subjected to various levels of deprivation. Some of such notable deprivation that have affected the wellbeing of the Nigerian workforce include poor remuneration evidenced by a minimum wage that is one of the poorest in the world, very low pensions that are not paid and, in most states, have fallen into arrears.

“Others include challenges of affordable housing and access to quality health care. Ironically, the Federal Government had set up policies and programs to cater for the aforementioned schemes but it has failed to demonstrate the political will to implement these policies for the full benefit of Nigerian workers.

“For instance, in the housing sector, despite the existence of the National Housing Fund, where Nigerian workers make a co-payment contribution to attain a mortgage facility, workers still struggle to get an accommodation of their own. This same scenario applies in the health and wellbeing of Nigerian Workers. Nigerian workers have expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of services received through the National Health Insurance Scheme, despite their co-contribution to the scheme.

“Most health care services are also not covered under the scheme, subjecting workers to pay out of pocket if they must access such services. It is also alarming to note that most states of the federation have a reputation of owing retired workers their pensionable benefits. There are reported cases where pensioners have died while awaiting their pensions, some of which were diverted for other purposes or simply mismanaged.

“In light of the above, we call on the governments to use this occasion to reflect on life saving measures that would put smiles on the faces of Nigerian workers. Also, given the fact that some government policies such as the removal of fuel subsidy, increased tariff on electricity and flotation of the Naira have added to the cost of living in Nigeria, the Federal and State governments should pay more focus on programs and policies that would alleviate the suffering experienced by workers.”

Onyekpere disclosed that against the background of the foregoing, CSJ has proffered the following recommendations:”Government should take concrete and targeted steps to mainstream a safe and healthy environment for all Nigerian workers irrespective of their cadre.

“To fast track the negotiations for a minimum wage and ensure that Nigerian workers get a living wage indexed on the cost of maintaining an adequate standard of living and the promotion of human dignity.

“The government at all levels should ensure that the health and safety of all Nigerian workers becomes their top-most priority by upgrading the services offered under health insurance schemes and fully implement the compulsory health insurance regime provided in the National Health Insurance Authority Act. This will include introducing greater transparency and value for money under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund.”

According to him, the FGN should revive the National Housing Scheme, and ensure that it delivers on the promise of affordable housing for workers.

“FGN and the states should fight corruption to a standstill to ensure that resources are available to guarantee safety and a conducive environment for Nigerians workers,” he stated.

By Chimezie Godfrey

Tinubu felicitates Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo, on birthday

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May 1, 2024

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Tinubu felicitates Minister of Interior, Tunji-Ojo, on birthday

President Bola Tinubu has warmly congratulated the Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on the occasion of his birthday.

Presidential Spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale disclosed this in a statement Wednesday.

H3 said the Minister holds sterling credentials as an ICT and engineering professional, and public policy expert.

Ngelale further said the minister successfully ran for public office twice to represent Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State in the House of Representatives, and has remained one of the propitious examples of the youth in government.

“President Tinubu commends Mr. Tunji-Ojo for the vigour and dedication he has brought to his office as Minister of Interior, noting the visible reforms in the ministry and in the institutions under the ministry.

“The President wishes the Minister renewed strength and success in his service to the nation, while urging him not to relent in his endeavours,” Ngelale said.

Tinubu congratulates Minister of Information, Idris, on birthday

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May 1, 2024

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Tinubu congratulates Minister of Information, Idris, on birthday

President Bola Tinubu has heartily congratulated Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, on his birthday.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) on Wednesday.

The statement noted that “the Minister is a seasoned public servant, publisher, and politician who has brought finesse and immense experience to his role as Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation.”

It said further that Alhaji Idris has been at the forefront of the media and public relations industry as the Founder, Chairman, and Publisher of Blueprint Newspapers, and as the Chairman of Bifocal Group, a public relations consultancy, and Kings Broadcasting Limited, which operates the Abuja-based WE 106.5 FM.

His role as General Secretary of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria (NPAN) prior to his appointment as Minister accents his commitment and contributions to the media landscape in Nigeria, Ngelale said.

“President Tinubu commends the Minister for his diligence and noteworthy proclivity for balance,” the presidential spokesman added.

“The President wishes Alhaji Idris many more years in good health, as well as success in his service to the nation,”Ngelale concludes.

Amazing Nigeria, Amazing Dangote

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May 1, 2024

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Whenever Nigerians discuss their country, they express extreme views – gloomy now, gloomy future; energetic show of happiness and grand hope for a bright and prosperous future. This conflicting and contrasting attitude makes Nigeria an amazing country, with amazing people. Life is hardly dull in Nigeria.

When economic, political or security crisis emerge in the country with apparent intensity, wishful thinkers and speculators in the guise of intelligence specialists will vainly name a terminal date for the federal Republic of Nigeria and a subsequent humanitarian crisis for its over 200 million people. Incredibly Nigeria survives.

The doomsayers repeatedly list all the indicators of a failing state and wickedly attribute them to my country, implying that it will disintegrate. Their assumptions invariably turn into ashes. Resilient Nigeria continues to flourish, perhaps in a condition, like all existing nation-states, that needs improvement.

Nigeria has amazing citizens who dare and win for the country. Their winning ways raise realistic hope for, and often bring, actual improvement. These amazing Nigerians are in the academia, in journalism, in sports, in the creative industry, in politics, in the military, in the medical sciences, in the fields of technology, in diplomacy, in agriculture and in the economic, financial and industrial spheres.

Alhaji Aliko Dangote, born in Kano on April 10, 1957, is an amazing industrialist. He built and leads a multi-trillion Naira amazing Business Empire from scratch. He is among Nigerians who make Nigeria an amazing country.

It is fascinatingly amazing that right from his micro business days, Aliko Dangote was an employer and a job creator for children of his age. He was investing his pocket money in buying sweets in bulk and distributing it to youngsters who sold it in the streets of the ancient city of Kano.

Fast-forward to today’s roles of Alhaji Aliko Dangote in making Nigeria an amazing country. His amazing role in the manufacture of cement in Nigeria has improved the habitability of homes. Dwellings constructed by sticks and corn stalks in every part of Nigeria are now gradually being transformed into durable, comfortable and safer dwellings using Dangote cement. Amazingly, Dangote cement is fast-selling at Nkalagu, home to Nigeria’s first cement factory, in Ebonyi state.

Millions of Nigerians dwell in homes built using Dangote cement; they sweeten their tea, gruel, or pap with sugar from the Dangote Sugar Refinery; they make their stew and soup tasty by adding Dangote Salt or Dangote Classic Seasoning. Fuel from his 650, 000 barrels per day crude processing plant will soon power agricultural tractors, articulated trailers, locomotives, airplanes, vessels and most on-site power generators. The rice they enjoy, maize flour for their tuwo and the vegetables in their egusi soup could have been fertilized with urea from his fertilizer factory. His influence on the daily life of Nigerians, regardless of class and location, is amazingly pervasive.

The availability of products manufactured by units of Dangote Industries in all parts of amazing Nigeria is now overshadowed by his boldness to go into crude oil refining in an amazingly big way. He used a missed opportunity to buy, own, turn-around and make the Kaduna Petrochemical and Refining Company functional as a stepping stone. He bravely invested over USD20 billion in building an oil refinery larger than any in Europe and Africa. This demonstrates an amazing single-mindedness and strong will to spot and grab a big and rare, opportunity.

The Dangote Refinery will amazingly contribute in minimising or ending the importation of white products from abroad. It is envisaged to generate an annual revenue of USD $21 billion and employ at least 100, 000 breadwinners. Even without the refinery, the Dangote Group reportedly employs 33,000 workers. Alhaji Aliko’s habit of creating jobs for others has now gone far beyond the few youngsters who sold sweets for him in the streets of Kano.

Salisu Na’inna wrote from Dambatta

Ododo extends health insurance to LG workers, negotiating minimum wage Newsdiaryonline

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May 1, 2024

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Ododo extends health insurance to LG workers, negotiating minimum wage Newsdiaryonline

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has said his administration will conclude ongoing negotiations with the organized labour over the implementation of minimum wage for workers in the state.

The Governor made this known in his address at the Workers’ Day rally held at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja.

Governor Ododo who comemmended the workers for their dedication, resilience, and invaluable contributions to the progress and prosperity of the state urged workers in the state to continue to support the policies and programmes of the state government.

He assured that the state government will continue to evolve ways to improve the welfare of workers in the state.

“Your commitment to excellence, even in the face of challenges, inspires us all as we continue to explore ways to improve the welfare of our workers beyond the minimum expectation of the average worker in Kogi State.

“As an administration, we recognize the importance of fair wages, safe working conditions, and social security for every worker.

“Therefore, we are committed to implementing policies that promote the rights of workers and ensure dignity in the workplace”, the Governor said.

Governor Ododo stated that his administration has commenced full payment of the contributory state health insurance scheme for all workers under the formal sector coverage in the state civil service, and announced plans by the state government to extend the health insurance scheme to workers at the local government level in the state.

The Kogi State Governor also informed the gathering at the workers’ day rally of government’s intervention through the free education policy in the state, distribution of quarterly food palliatives, continuation of ongoing infrastructure projects, reforms in agricultural practices and enhancement of the state security architecture with the recruitment of more men and provision of logistics for adequate policing of all communities in the state.

According to Governor Ododo, “with most of our workers in the state now enrolled under the Kogi state health insurance scheme, we shall soon extend coverage under the health insurance scheme to the local government level.

The State free education policy remains on course and payment of Senior Secondary School Examination fees has been fully offset by the government.

Our new template for payment of bursary to students in higher institutions has been adjudged to be a step higher in transparency and accountability.

Our quarterly palliatives has since commenced and we shall not renege on this accord until the economic indices improve.

We have embarked on an aggressive agricultural reform programme that will identify and support genuine farmers with subsidy, secure our farmlands and communities, guarantee food security and there is increase in the number of boots on the ground across communities, and logistical enhancement are in place to step up efforts to make Kogi State completely unsafe for criminals.”

While acknowledging improvements in the salaries of civil servants and pensioners at the local government level, Governor Ododo said the state government has demonstrated resolve to make funds available for the welfare and wellbeing of the state workforce promising to do more to keep the workers happy and more productive.

The Governor urged the organized Labour in the state to continue its constructive engagement with the government, noting that the conducive atmosphere created for negotiation between labour unions and the government has enabled the state to address issues bothering on the welfare of workers in the state.

May Day: President Bola Tinubu’s speech

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May 1, 2024

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
Being a speech by His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the occasion of the 2024 May Day celebration, held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Eagle Square, Abuja.

Protocols…

My dear compatriots and fellow workers in the service of our great country,

Today, I join you to share in the essence of this day and to express my deepest gratitude and admiration for the invaluable contributions each and every one of you makes to keep our nation afloat in its times of greatest need.

Today, I stand before you to tell a fundamental truth: you, the workers of our great nation, are its very backbone. But I’m not here merely to echo familiar praises of the labour force. Rather, I want to assure you that we appreciate and celebrate your hard work, sacrifices, and contributions to the prosperity and stability of our great nation every day. I am equally thrilled that this event, the first since we took office, is organised by the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress under the leadership of Comrades Joseph Ajaero and Festus Osifo.

Great Nigerian workers, your role as an indispensable component of the nation’s engine cannot be overstated by any government if the quest for a just and progressive society is to be realised. Therefore, I extend my most heartfelt congratulations to you on this very important celebration.

I do not take for granted the understanding, patience, commitment, and support you have shown throughout the implementation of this government’s policies and programmes aimed at positively transforming our great nation. Your contributions have played a significant role in our efforts to rescue the economy since we came on board.

Fellow Comrades, your choice of the theme “People First” for this year’s May Day celebration is both instructive and commendable. The thoughtful selection by the leadership of both the NLC and TUC resonates with my government’s agenda and demonstrates that the working class holds a central position in the affairs of this nation. It also reflects the commitment of Organised Labour to collaborate with the government for the benefit of all citizens. I appreciate your efforts to prioritise the people in governance.

I recognise that the theme “People First” aligns with both the “Human-cantered Agenda for the Future of Work” and the Centenary Declaration of the International Labour Organization (ILO), which the government is committed to implementing. This commitment ensures alignment of Nigeria’s Labour Administration System with international best practices. While the three pillars of the agenda seek to drive growth, equity, and sustainability for present and future generations, they require us to prioritise investment in people’s capabilities, enhance investment in work institutions, and promote decent and sustainable work.

We took office at the time many nations, including ours, were experiencing daunting socio-political and developmental challenges. Yet, we are resolute in confronting these obstacles head-on. The scourge of criminality, from banditry to kidnapping and the farmer-herder crises, alongside terrorism, continues to afflict our nation despite the tireless efforts of our armed forces. We are aware of the toll this takes on our economy. I assure you: we are fully committed to tackling these security challenges.

You would recall that on January 30th, 2024, the Federal Government convened a 37-member Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage. The committee’s mandate was to provide counsel and suggest a national minimum wage that aligns with our current economic conditions. Since then, the committee, in collaboration with labour leaders, has been diligently working towards proposing a new National Minimum Wage. Unfortunately, despite concerted efforts, the committee was unable to reach a consensus at its last meeting. This shall be resolved soon and I assure you that your days of worrying are over.

Indeed, this government is open to the committee’s suggestion of not just a minimum wage but a living wage.

Great Nigerian Workers, we cannot achieve a just and equitable society that caters to the needs of every member, including the strong and the weak, without fostering peace and unity. Our shared vision for national growth and development can only be realised in an atmosphere of industrial harmony and peaceful coexistence in every segment of our country. The dividends we have promised the nation, and which you work tirelessly to ensure, can only be achieved when we all unite for progress.

On this momentous day, I urge you and all our fellow citizens to place your trust in this administration. The seeds of greatness planted in our nation are beginning to bear fruit, and they promise a future filled with hope and bound by prosperity.

Let me assure you, with the utmost sincerity, that every initiative undertaken by this administration is geared towards transforming Nigeria into a nation that can truly provide for its people.

So, I call upon each and every one of you, as I have consistently done, to join hands in shaping the destiny of our nation towards greatness. Our allegiance and patriotism are the bedrock upon which our beloved country thrives. The success of our government’s policies and programmes hinges on the willingness of the workers, as the backbone of our workforce, to embrace them wholeheartedly. I appeal to you to continue using the power of the labour movement for the greater good of our nation, fostering harmony and cooperation.

Once more, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on this successful Workers’ Day celebration, and I wish you all joyous festivities.

May God continue to bless our country.

We’ll not delay action on new minimum wage – Makinde

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May 1, 2024

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We’ll not delay action on new minimum wage – Makinde

Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has assured workers that his administration will not delay in implementing the new minimum wage.

Makinde gave the assurance on Wednesday in his address at the 2024 May Day celebrations, held at Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Ibadan.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Mr Bayo Lawal, said notwithstanding new minimum wage, his government to fail in its promise of ensuring payment of salaries and pensions on or before 25th of every month.

He said that his administration had been responsive to the welfare of workers, adding that it had also put people at the heart of its policies and programmes.

Acknowledging the importance of labour in the policies, programmes and projects aimed at ensuring the development of the state, Makinde commended the workers for ensuring an atmosphere devoid of incessant industrial actions.

He noted that the cooperation between his government and labour had contributed immensely to the existing development and peaceful atmosphere in the state.

He urged the workers to reciprocate his administration’s good gesture by being more dedicated and committed.

The governor also enjoined them to work ‘tirelessly and vigorously’ for their pay.(NAN)

By David Adeoye

Workers’ Day: Jandor congratulates Lagos workers

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May 1, 2024

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Workers’ Day: Jandor congratulates Lagos workers

The Lagos PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 General Election, Dr Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor), on Wednesday felicitated workers in the state on the occasion of the 2024 Workers’ Day .

Adediran, in his congratulatory message issued by by his spokesman, Mr Gbenga Ogunleye, commended workers for their resilience,diligence and sacrifice.

He noted that workers contributed,in no small measure ,to the greatness of the state and growth of its economy.

According to him ,state’s economy would not have been where it is today without the patriotic and unwavering commitment and dedication of workers.

He said in spite of the threats and dangers workers face in the discharge of their duties, they had remained dedicated and committed to the state.

“On this occasion of Workers’ Day, I urge you to keep hope alive, knowing that you have an advocate in me, and our shared desire of birthing a government that will truly prioritise the interest of the workers is still much on course,” Adediran said. (NAN)

By Adeyemi Adeleye