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Senate meets Wike, FCT CP behind closed-door

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Senate meets Wike, FCT CP behind closed-door

The Senate is currently meeting with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igwe

The Senate at the Wednesday plenary resolved at about 12:20 pm to move the first order of the day to another legislative day to allow for a meeting with the duo in a Committee of the Whole in a closed-door session.

Consequently, a motion was moved by the Deputy Senate Leader, Oyelola Ashiru, and seconded by the Minority Leader in this respect.

Ashiru said, “The minister and the commissioner will brief us on the modalities of security in the FCT.”

The Senate, on Wednesday, February 28, summoned Wike, and the Commissioner of Police, Igwe, over the murder of Chris Agidy, an aide to Senator Ned Nwoko, by some kidnappers.

The Senate resolved that the FCT Minister and the police commissioner should appear to brief the Red Chamber on the increasing cases of kidnapping in Nigeria’s capital city.

The Senate resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Nwoko on the kidnapping and killing of his senior legislative assistant, Agidy.

Agidy was reportedly kidnapped along with 19 others in the Galadimawa area of Abuja in November 2023.

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Kudos, knocks trail government delay of student loan initiative

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Kudos, knocks trail government delay of student loan initiative

The suspension of the highly anticipated student loan scheme introduced by the Federal Government has sparked mixed reactions from professional groups and Nigerians on social media platforms.

Some netizens and groups have knocked the decision and expressed frustration and disappointment, seeing it as a setback for students anticipating financial support for their education. They also criticised the government for what they perceived as incompetence and lack of commitment to fulfilling promises.

Some Netizens and groups have, however, hailed the decision, noting that the delay was necessary to ensure the proper implementation of the scheme.

The launch of the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme was indefinitely postponed by the Federal Government on Tuesday.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Akintunde Sawyer, made this known during an interview with ARISE NEWS on Tuesday.

This postponement, occurring just 48 hours before the scheduled launch of the scheme was attributed to necessary corrections being made.

The scheme, initially proposed by former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in June 2023, was intended to provide interest-free loans for higher education.

Despite preparations, including the creation of a dedicated website, the launch was delayed multiple times.

Meanwhile, various stakeholders, such as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and concerned citizens, have voiced their concerns and criticisms regarding the suspension, highlighting issues of transparency, government accountability, and the impact on students.

While some viewed the delay as necessary to ensure effective policy execution, others criticized it as indicative of broader governance issues, including a lack of transparency and accountability.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Lagos (UNILAG) while reacting to the suspension of the scheme renewed its call for free education, saying Nigerian students do not desire the FG’s education loan.

ASUU UNILAG stated this on its X handle on Wednesday.

ASUU_UNILAG said, “📢 The message is simple and clear 🔊🔊🔊
#WeShallOvercome #AlutaContinua #VictoriaAscerta #SolidarityForever #ASUU.”

Also, an X user, Omaconsultant03 while reacting wrote, “Really confused government.
-CNG buses not yet seen
-Student loan cancelled
-Civil servant Palliative not consistent
-Conditional cash transfer failed
And yet the claim of subsidy is gone stand
Please God intervene in Nigeria’s issues.”

“FG assumes all Nigerian students are perhaps making money from online frauds and all! The interest and well-being of Nigerians never bother these politicians.

oredolalaide, another netizen wrote: “If a politician goes around acting like ‘fighting for the people’, he’s just fighting for his ambitions and relevance,”

DeborahToluwase on the other hand wrote, “The Federal Government honestly needs to come clean on this student loan thingy. Ajuri came out two days ago to say that the Student Loan scheme will be launched on Thursday (Tomorrow);

“only for the Executive Secretary of the Loan Fund, Akin Sawyerr to say that some corrections still needed to be made and hence he can’t commit to a certain date as regards the launch. This is not a good image at all. Why give a launch date for a half-baked policy?”

akomscopy while also reacting on the X platform wrote, “The reason why this delay in the student loan scheme is generating mixed reactions is because the policy, when implemented, will be beneficial to mostly the poor and middle class. It’s important for the government to get it right, once and for all.”

“If you study the body language of Mr President, you will know he wants to give it all, and he (president) said ‘nobody should be left behind” when it comes to this scheme’.

“Not leaving anyone behind means there must be due diligence in getting many things right before launching,” he stated.

ashman_babane wrote, “🤣🤣🤣🤣 They have nothing to offer, it’s just a mouth-washing promise, Nigeria is so easy to predict in terms of the governance policies.

“The first day we heard this my boss said all na lie, and here we are🤣. The system is not to make life okay is set up against citizens.”

“The pitfall in this loan is one big issue, transparency in its administration and implementation is another. But one troubling part in all this is the back-tracking of this government’s policies. It seems that all their campaign promises were not realistic and well thought out,” VictorIbetoEsq wrote.

darligton_ stated, “Lol…they just used it as an excuse to increase school fees. This govt is full of scammers.”

Diaspora Nigerians seek consulate office in Chicago

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Diaspora Nigerians seek consulate office in Chicago

The Nigeria Diaspora Initiative has urged President Bola Tinubu to urgently approve the establishment of a Consulate office in Chicago, Illinois, United States, to increase Nigeria’s annual Foreign Direct Investment and boost its economic status.

This is coming after the Federal Government announced that the FDI for the third quarter of 2023 stood at US $59.77 million.

The move, the group claimed in a statement on Wednesday, would attract investments that could bring growth to the Nigerian economy, especially when other nations are currently facing challenges.

They stressed that preventing Nigerians and other investors around the US from traveling long distances to access services provided by the nation’s embassy office will scale up FDI yearly.

Among those advocating for the creation and establishment of the consulate are Prof Shaffideen Amuwo, a Clinical Associate Professor Emeritus at the University of Illinois Chicago, Alh. Tunji Quadri, a US-based cyber security expert and the General Coordinator of Nigeria Diaspora Initiative, Mr. Tolani Banire, a Manager with vast experience in the Aviation Industry, Dr. Oluwagoke Ajayi, a seasoned Engineer and contractor with the US Department of Defense, Dr. Victor Onafuye Jonathan, an Information Technology expert, and Hon. Femi Odere.

In the statement signed by NDI Coordinator, Alhaji Tunji Quadri, the group maintained that the consulate office would not serve as merely a bureaucratic expansion, but a symbolic avenue for the Federal Government to engage with the Nigerians abroad especially those in the United States.

“At its core, the issue of access to any consular services is a fundamental human right. All people have the right to consular services in a timely and effective manner. Yet, for Nigerians especially those in Chicago and Midwest cities, that right has been denied.

“This denial by the Federal Government has created significant barriers, making it difficult for people to travel, do business, and even access vital documentation.

“It is crucial that the Tinubu-led administration ensure that Nigerian Americans are given the support they need to succeed. The establishment of a consulate in Chicago would be a powerful symbol of that commitment,” he added.

On his part, Tolani Bamire argued that the population of Nigerians in the U.S., especially in the Midwest area is a key factor in establishing another Consulate office in Chicago, Illinois to serve the needs of our citizens.

He added that the clamour for a new consulate office will decongest the number of Nigerians and investors traveling to the other offices in New York and Atlanta, Georgia for consular services.

According to him, the office will be a platform for a strengthened bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the US.

Police order patrols around Kano schools

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Police order patrols around Kano schools

The Kano State Police Commissioner, Hussaini Gumel, has directed Operational Commanders and Divisional Police Officers to intensify patrols around all the primary and secondary schools as well as all tertiary institutions in the state.

This is contained in a statement by the Command’s Public Relations, SP Abdullahi Haruna, on Wednesday.

He said the measure was in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, on ensuring the safety of schools under the Safe Schools Initiative.

Haruna said the directive was aimed at improving the security of lives and property, most especially the safety of schools and students.

“The measure is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of students, teachers, and staff and to boost the overall educational sector in the state.

“The intention of increasing the presence of police personnel in these areas is to further deter criminal activities and provide a secure environment conducive to learning and teaching.”

He urged members of the public, particularly school administrators, teachers, parents, and students, to cooperate fully with the Police and other security agencies and report any suspicious activities for prompt action.

While thanking the people of the state for their support, cooperation, and understanding, the commissioner urged them to keep reporting any suspicious movement of persons or items to the nearest Police station.

The According reports that over 280 pupils and teachers of Government Secondary School and LEA primary school at Kuriga, Kaduna State were abducted by bandits last Thursday, triggering national outrage.

The Jama’atu Nasril Islam, Amnesty International, the Parent Teacher Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Union of Teachers, and the House of Representatives condemned the attack and asked the government to rescue the victims immediately

The bandits reportedly invaded the Kuriga area of the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State on Thursday, shooting at their victims before taking away at least 280 of the pupils and teachers from both schools.

The According reports that the secondary school was relocated to the primary school on account of the insecurity in the council.

The incident occurred barely 24 hours after insurgents abducted 200 internally displaced women in Borno State.

The women were kidnapped in Ngala, the headquarters of Gambarou Ngala in Borno State while fetching firewood in the bush.

10 health tips for Ramadan fasting

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10 health tips for Ramadan fasting

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a sacred time for Muslims worldwide. It commences and concludes with the sighting of the crescent moon. Due to the Islamic calendar’s shorter duration compared to the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan shifts earlier by 10–12 days annually, allowing it to traverse all seasons within a 33-year cycle.

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting from dawn until sunset, devoting themselves to increased prayers, introspection, and acts of charity.

Taking care of your health during fasting in Ramadan is, however, very important. In this piece, According Online highlights steps to take care of one’s health while fasting

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water during non-fasting hours, especially during Suhoor and Iftar, to prevent dehydration.

2. Eat Nutritious Foods: Always eat a balanced diet with foods rich in complex carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables to provide sustained energy throughout the fasting period.

3. Avoid Overeating: While breaking the fast at Iftar, avoid overeating or consuming large amounts of sugary or fatty foods. Opt for moderate portions and balanced meals.

4. Include Suhoor: Have a nutritious pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) that includes complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to provide energy and keep you feeling full throughout the day.

5. Reduce Intake Of Caffeine and Sugary Drinks: Reduce consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages as they can lead to dehydration and energy crashes.

6. Take Short Naps: If possible, take short naps during the day to help alleviate fatigue and maintain energy levels.

7. Exercise Moderately: Engage in light to moderate physical activity, such as walking or gentle stretching, during non-fasting hours to maintain fitness and energy levels. Avoid strenuous exercise during fasting hours.

8. Monitor Health: Pay attention to your body and any signs of dehydration, fatigue, or health issues. Seek medical attention if needed.

9. Get Sufficient Sleep: Aim for adequate sleep during the night to ensure your body’s overall well-being and energy levels during fasting hours.

10. Break Fast Gradually: Start Iftar with dates and water, followed by a light meal, and gradually consume more substantial foods to prevent digestive discomfort.

By taking these steps, Muslims can maintain their health and well-being while fasting.

However, if there are any underlying health conditions or concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

15 missing as armed men attack passenger bus in Taraba 

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15 missing as armed men attack passenger bus in Taraba 

No fewer than 15 persons, including women and children, are said to be missing after armed men suspected to be vigilante personnel attacked an 18-seater bus conveying passengers from Zaki/Biam in Benue State to Maihura in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State on Tuesday.

It was gathered that the incident happened at Gankwe village along the Donga- Mararaban-Baissa road in the Donga Local Government Area of the state.

Narrating the incident to journalists on the phone, the driver of the bus, Mr. Mpuuga Mbaave, who escaped death by the whiskers with machete cut wounds, said the armed men in vigilante uniform attacked his bus.

“I loaded 18 passengers from Zaki/Biam in Benue State to Maihura in Taraba state, and on our way close to Mararaba, I saw many people in Vigilante uniform. I suspected something was wrong, so I parked the vehicle.

“One of the villagers who was passing by told me that I should proceed. According to him, two members of the Vigilante personnel were killed by kidnappers, and the vigilante came to carry their corpses.

“As I moved closer, some of the Vigilante personnel started shouting, ‘kill all of them,’ kill all of them,’ it’s their people (Tiv) that killed our members, and they started attacking the passengers and cutting them with machetes,

“They ordered the passengers out of the bus, forced them to lie facedown. I refused to come down, but when I discovered that it was getting out of hand, I decided to jump out of the bus and ran away. My conductor too followed me. They came after us cutting us with a machete, but we ran for our dear lives,” he narrated.

Confirming the development, the Chairman of Doonga Local Government Council, Hon. Ezra Voka, said he was already in the nearby forest searching for the missing persons.

“Please my friend, I am already in the bush in search of the missing people. We cannot talk much now till when I get more information from here,” he said.

Charles de Gaulle’s eldest son dies at 102

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Charles de Gaulle’s eldest son dies at 102

The eldest son of French World War II Resistance leader and first postwar president Charles de Gaulle has died aged 102, his family said on Wednesday.

Philippe de Gaulle heeded his father’s call to join Free French forces in the fight against Nazism in World War II and later had a successful naval career, rising to the rank of admiral, and also becoming a senator.

He was a more low-key figure than his father but devoted himself to preserving the memory of Charles de Gaulle, notably through numerous books.

His son Yves de Gaulle told AFP he died overnight Tuesday to Wednesday in the Invalides in central Paris, the French military institution where he had lived for two years.

“Philippe de Gaulle anticipated to father’s call to join the Resistance. Sailor, admiral, and senator, he never came up short when courage and honour were required. A century of French bravery,” President Emmanuel Macron wrote in a tribute on X.

He joined the Free French Naval Forces in 1940 and fought in the North Atlantic until 1944, then in France itself when the Resistance joined the Allies in pushing the Nazis out of France.

AFP

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Kwara sets up committee on food security

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Kwara sets up committee on food security

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has inaugurated a multi-sectoral state working committee on food security, charging them to work with all stakeholders to ensure that people have access to affordable food.

The committee comprises the governor as the chairman; Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Oluwatoyosi Adebayo Thomas; Commissioner for Local Government, Community Development and Chieftaincy Affairs; state coordinator of the federal ministry of agriculture; NAGS-AP State Focal Person; representative of the River Basin Development Authority; representative of the State ADPs; representative of ICT Providers servicing the state; representatives of relevant commodity associations — AFAN, Maize Cassava, Soybean, rice; bank of agriculture; Nigeria Incentive-based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending; and representative of the state traditional council and Etsu Tsaragi Alhaji Aliyu Kpotwa Abdullahi.

The committee is to develop strategies, policies and initiatives to address food security challenges and promote sustainable agricultural practices, among other things.

In a statement on Tuesday by his spokesman, Rafiu Ajakaiye, the governor while inaugurating the committee said its members are charged with the responsibility of ensuring that every citizen in the state has access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food.

“As we embark on this journey, we must acknowledge the challenges ahead. Climate change, population growth, and economic instability threaten to disrupt food production and access. Yet we must remain steadfast in our commitment to overcoming these obstacles. We’ll focus on supporting smallholder farmers, empowering rural communities, and leveraging innovation and technology,” he said.

“I urge each committee member to approach their role with dedication and compassion. Our success will be measured not so much by the policies we formulate but by the tangible impact we have on the lives of our fellow citizens.

“Let us work together, drawing upon our collective expertise, network, and experience to develop solutions that address the root causes of food insecurity in our state.”

On her part, Adebayo-Thomas said the committee had its work cut out for it and would work round the clock to achieve the objective of making Kwara self-sufficient in food.

The Managing Director, Lower Niger RBDA, Dr. Adeniyi Aremu, said it was important for Nigeria to feed itself, asking the committee to remain committed to its terms of reference.

The Etsu Tsaragi also commended the governor for setting up the committee, calling for effective collaboration with all the commodities’ associations in the important task.

Miyetti Allah members storm Abuja court, demand president’s release

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Miyetti Allah members storm Abuja court, demand president’s release

Some members of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore on Wednesday in their numbers stormed the Federal High Court in Abuja to demand the unconditional release of their president, Bello Bodejo.

Bodejo was arrested on January 23 at the Miyetti Allah’s office in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State over the unveiling of a vigilante group.

He had been held in the custody of the Defence Intelligence Agency since then.

The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), on February 5, filed a motion ex-parte seeking to remand Bodejo pending the conclusion of the investigation and arraignment in court.

But Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Abuja Division of the Federal High Court granted an order for Bodejo to be remanded for 15 days.

At the expiration of the 15 days, the court gave the Federal Government seven days to file a charge against Bodejo .

At the proceedings on February 22, the judge gave the FG seven days to file a charge against Bodejo.

Bodejo’s lawyer subsequently filed a motion for his unconditional release.

The motion is slated for hearing today.

Details later…

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China warns US against proposed TikTok ban

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China warns US against proposed TikTok ban

Beijing warned on Wednesday that a proposed ban on Chinese-owned video-sharing app TikTok would “inevitably come back to bite the United States”.

The US House of Representatives is set to vote later Wednesday on a bill that would force the app to cut ties with its Chinese owner or get banned in the United States.

The legislation is the biggest threat yet to the video-sharing app, which has surged to huge popularity across the world while raising fears among governments and security officials over its Chinese ownership and potential subservience to the Communist Party in Beijing.

Ahead of the vote, foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin condemned the proposed ban.

“Although the United States has never found evidence that TikTok threatens US national security, it has not stopped suppressing TikTok,” he said.

“This kind of bullying behaviour that cannot win in fair competition disrupts companies’ normal business activity, damages the confidence of international investors in the investment environment, and damages the normal international economic and trade order,” he added.

“In the end, this will inevitably come back to bite the United States itself,” Wang said.

The vote is likely to occur at 10:00 am (1400 GMT) and is expected to pass overwhelmingly in a rare moment of bipartisanship in politically divided Washington.

The fate of the bill is uncertain in the Senate, where key figures are against making such a drastic move against a hugely popular app that has 170 million US users.

President Joe Biden will sign the bill, known officially as the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act,” into law if it comes to his desk, the White House has said.

TikTok staunchly denies any ties to the Chinese government and has restructured the company so the data of US users stays in the country, the company says.

TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is in Washington, trying to shore up support to stop the bill.

“This latest legislation being rushed through at unprecedented speed without even the benefit of a public hearing, poses serious Constitutional concerns,” wrote Michael Beckerman, TikTok’s vice president for public policy, in a letter to the bill’s co-sponsors seen by AFP.

AFP

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