Television Nigerian

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has refuted reports that it bombed residents in Kaduna State’s Igabi Local Government Area, killing thirty of them, according to accounts from the local community.
The incident happened on Sunday night at around 9:00 p.m., when the inhabitants of Tudun Biri were celebrating Maulud Nabbiy. They claim that at that moment, a NAF plane dropped a bomb on them, killing at least thirty people.

The government would speak to the media following its Security Council meeting, according to Samuel Aruwan, the commissioner in charge of the Kaduna State Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs. However, the Air Force released a statement refuting its role in the airstrike.

Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, issued a statement claiming that no Air Force operations had taken place in Kaduna state in the previous twenty-four hours.

The statement said: “It is untrue that reports circulating that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) planes inadvertently killed defenseless people in Kaduna are true.

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“Please be advised that no air operations have been conducted by the NAF within Kaduna State or its surroundings during the past twenty-four hours.

It should be noted that there are other organizations in the Northwestern area of Nigeria that use combat-armed drones besides the Nigerian Air Force.

It is imperative to guarantee that the media consistently performs thorough due diligence before to publishing uncorroborated and unsubstantiated allegations. Much obliged.

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and VCDP, has provided certain physically challenged people with Point of Sale (POS) machines in Anambra State’s Ogbaru LGA.

Atani’s LGA secretariat hosted the presentation.
Mr. Chukwujekwu Obianefo, VCDP Rural Finance officer, noted that the POS terminal was viewed as a critical tool for empowerment in order to serve the vulnerable across the participating LGAs.

He stated that the LGAs of Ogbaru, Ihiala, and Orumba South are being used as a test area, which will be expanded to other LGAs in due course.

Mr. Obianefo stated that the assistance was part of the VCDP’s financial inclusion mainstreaming program, as well as the Program’s concern for the underprivileged and persons with disabilities in order to help them escape poverty.

During the presentation, Mr. Pascal Aniegbuna, Chairman of Ogbaru LGA, urged the recipients to make wise use of government intervention and support through Agricultural Programmes such as the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) to improve their lives.

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He urged them to accept the assistance with a warm hug because it is intended to help them become financially independent, noting that such a gift is uncommon.
Mr. Aniegbuna thanked the International Fund for Agricultural Development, IFAD, and the VCDP for their assistance.

Mrs. Amaka Onyema, a physically challenged primary healthcare worker, commended the IFAD-VCDP for the kind gesture on behalf of herself and other beneficiaries, promising that they would put it to good use and fulfill the goal of the support.

No fewer than 100 civil society groups have passed a vote of confidence on the Director General of the Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office (NMCO), Engr. Obadiah Simon Nkom, for his exceptional and transformative leadership so far.

The groups, under the aegis of the Nigeria Civil Rights Movement, said that Engr Nkom has effectively and efficiently aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

In a press conference on Monday in Abuja, the convener of the group, Nwogu Ndubisi, said Nkom has made a significant impact at the NMCO – particularly in the implementation of a modern and efficient cadastral system.

Ndubisi added that the NMCO DG has also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ethical practices and good governance.

“Today, we stand here united as a collective voice of the Nigeria Civil Rights Movement, to express our profound appreciation and admiration for the Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office (NMCO) and its exceptional alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

“We are honored to extend our heartfelt commendation to the, for his unwavering dedication, supportive role, and tireless efforts in building a brighter future for our great nation.

“One of the key achievements of the NMCO has been its successful implementation of a modern and efficient cadastral system. This system has revolutionized the way mining rights and licenses are managed, ensuring that the process is streamlined, transparent, and devoid of corruption. By embracing cutting-edge technology and best practices, the NMCO has not only enhanced accountability but has also attracted local and foreign investments, leading to increased revenue generation and job opportunities for our fellow Nigerians.

“In addition to these achievements, Engr. Nkom has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ethical practices and good governance. His dedication to fostering a culture of integrity and professionalism within the NMCO has not only earned the trust and respect of industry stakeholders but has also set a benchmark for excellence. By prioritizing transparency and accountability, Engr. Nkom has laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development within the mining sector.

“Furthermore, the Nigeria Civil Rights Movement is mesmerized by a deep commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible mining practices that have been demonstrated by the Nigeria Mining Cadastral Office over the years.

“We know that Environmental degradation is a pressing concern in today’s world, and it is heartening to witness the NMCO’s dedication to mitigating the negative impacts of mining activities on our precious ecosystems. Through the enforcement of stringent environmental regulations, the NMCO has set a high standard for responsible mining, ensuring that our natural resources are protected for future generations.

“In addition to its operational achievements, the NMCO has also prioritized capacity building and human resource development. Recognizing that a skilled workforce is essential for the success of any organization, the NMCO has invested in training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives. By empowering its staff and stakeholders with the necessary skills and expertise, the NMCO has positioned itself as a center of excellence, contributing to the overall growth and professionalism of the mining sector.

“Engr. Obadiah has shown exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of our nation. His visionary approach, strategic thinking, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in transforming the NMCO into a beacon of hope and progress. Under his guidance, the NMCO has become a shining example of how a government institution can effectively align itself with the aspirations of the people and the vision of a transformative leader.”

The groups, therefore, expressed confidence that NMCO will continue to play a pivotal role in the realizlsation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, propelling our nation towards unprecedented heights of prosperity and development.

Ohanaeze Youths Movement, a socio-cultural group, has urged President Bola Ahmed Bola to cease what it calls the continuing illegal imprisonment of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele and execute the existing Court decision on his release.

The trial of Emefiele began last Tuesday in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja, with three witnesses exonerating him of misconduct in the award of N1.2bn car supply contracts by CBN under his supervision.

The group said in a statement issued jointly by its founders, Obe Agu and Nwabueze Obi, that Emefiele’s exoneration by witnesses from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the court was obvious evidence that he was being pursued rather than prosecuted.

As a result, the organization demanded Emefiele’s release and a thorough prosecution procedure.

According to the statement, “Emefiele was put on trial by the Federal Government through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on six counts relating to alleged procurement procedure violations in the award of the contract to April1616 Investment Limited.” At the start of the trial, the first prosecution witness admitted that Emefiele was neither the owner or shareholder of April1616 Investment Limited, which was given the N1.2bn vehicle supply contract by CBN under Emefiele’s name.

“The witness, Samsideen Romanus, a top official of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), gave evidence on how the company was incorporated on August 1, 2016, and tendered several documents on how the company was floated.” He read out in front of the Court the names of the company’s shareholders, who included Aminu Idris Yaro, Maryam Aliyu Abdullahi, and Saadatu Ramalan Yaro as joint owners. While submitting many documents on how the firm was incorporated on August 1, 2016, Romanus, who was lead in evidence by EFCC counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, stated that Emefiele’s name was not in any way related with the company.

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“The witness explained that, while CAC was responsible for the company’s incorporation, it has no role in the day-to-day operations of the entity.” The second witness, Remigious Ugwu, a Compliance Officer with Zenith Bank, told the court how the CBN paid various quantities of money in millions of naira into the April1616 Investment Limited. He specifically told Justice Hamza Muazu how CBN paid the same business N39,060,465, N421,953,488 on November 6, 2020, and N304,883,720 on November 23, 2020. He admitted that none of the payments were associated with Emefiele’s name, but said that he had no idea what the funds were for.

“The witness, who tendered various documents on behalf of the bank, stated that the former CBN governor was not a signatory to the company’s bank account.” The third witness, Oluwole Owoeye, a Deputy Director, Banking Services with the CBN and former Secretary to the CBN’s Major Contract Tendering Committee (MCTC), stated that his organization was responsible for ensuring compliance with the Procurement Act in contract awarding. Owoeye, on the other hand, informed the court that his committee was not involved in the vetting of bids for contract awards that led to Emefiele’s conviction. The witness explained that the bidding was handled by another committee since it exceeded the threshold of his own. The foregoing testimonies by these witnesses are convincing evidence that Emefiele was being witch-hunted.”

The Federal Government has taken delivery of the finished Second Niger Bridge and emphasized the need of timely oversight of road construction.

On Sunday, December 3, 2023, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, received the finished 2nd Niger Bridge project and related facilities from the project’s contractor, Messr Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc, at the 2nd Niger Bridge toll station.

Barr. Orji Uchenna Orji, the Minister’s Chief Press Secretary, reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering long-lasting road infrastructure that meets world-class standards.

“We are here to take over the completed works of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc on the 2nd Niger Bridge and some access roads,” he explained. We are pleased with the work done and the project circle that was completed during the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We thank President Muhammadu Buhari’s immediate predecessor, His Excellency Babatunde Raji Fashola, CON, SAN, who was the Hon. Minister of Works who oversaw this project.”

*The job is flawlessly lovely and well-done.”
Umahi noted that, in line with Mr. President’s new road infrastructure innovations, his Ministry will endeavor to assure the installation of solar-powered lighting along the length of the completed project, as well as the completion of the two bridge interchanges.

He also stated that he plans to purchase more land through the state government in order to build service stations and improve road safety by installing CCTV cameras.

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He went on to say that the ministry also intends to concession the project through the HDMI program.

“We have the light issue, and we will work together on how to have light permanently along the completed road, especially at night, and we have agreed on a solar solution.” When we finish the two interchanges, the road project will be completed.

“One is to take road users out of Asaba town so that if you come to this bridge, you don’t have to go through Asaba town to encounter vehicular traffic, and the other is to take road users out of Onitsha town to avoid traffic, and when this is done, the entire job will be said to be fully completed.” The positions have been recommended for Julius Berger and RCC.

“However, if we find an investor willing to fund the two interchanges, we will concession the two projects to such investor under our HDMI program, and we will acquire more land here so that we can establish service stations, and we will get the private sector to build hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, filling stations, and other facilities for public use, as we see in the Western world.”

“And of course we are going to ensure security surveillance along the road through the installation of CCTV cameras and deployment of security personnel so that within this axis you can have access to security within the shortest possible time” he told reporters.

The minister also stated that, while the Federal Government would take over the completed 2nd Niger Bridge, the contractor will still be liable throughout the defect liability period, and if anything goes wrong with the completed construction, the contractor will be called upon to remedy it.

He stated that the toll would be triggered after the two interchanges were fixed.

Engr. Obioha, Director Bridge Design and Construction, Federal Ministry of Works, commended the Federal Government in his remarks for working tirelessly to secure the project’s completion.

He stated that the Ministry worked well with the contractor to ensure that the project was completed on time, and he hoped that the public would support this Federal Government’s efforts by following the rules of the road and helping to ensure the safety and protection of the installations along the road.
Dr Las Ritcher, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc, stated that the bridge was commissioned by the previous administration but that a technical handover to the Federal Ministry of Works was required, thus the handover ceremony.

He expressed hope that the Federal Ministry of Works, led by Sen. Umahi, who is known for his preference for excellent job delivery, will be satisfied with the work done.

“He has seen what Julius Berger has delivered to the highest quality,” he remarked. I believe he is satisfied, and as of tomorrow, we can declare it is no longer our project; it is now the project of the Federal Ministry of Works. I am glad to give over to the client and know that he will be able to operate the road, including the toll station.”

It should be noted that the contract awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria (JBN) Plc is for the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge connecting Anambra and Delta States, Contract No. 6475, and the construction of an access road from the existing Benin-Asaba Expressway to the approach link road to the 2nd Niger Bridge, Contract No. 7919.

In a related development, the minister paid an inspection visit to the project site of CGG Nig. Ltd on the contract for the Rehabilitation of Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway Section 111: Enugu- Lokpanta 61.15 km route.

The Minister also paid a visit to the collapsed New Artisan bridge on the NNPC Mega Filling Station Enugu-PH Expressway in Enugu State. Work at such places is proceeding and is expected to be completed in record time.

Femi Fani-Kayode, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), asserted that the Department of State Services prevented democratic disruption in Nigeria under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

In response to a charge made against Yusuf Magaji Bichi, the director general of the DSS, the former minister of aviation made this statement on Monday.

The DSS DG was accused by well-known X user Jackson Ude of embezzling a subsidy grant intended for service personnel.
The service’s director of strategic communications and public relations, Peter Afunanya, refuted the report, claiming that the agency had not been given any funding of that kind.

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Speaking on the issue, Fani-Kayode asserted that “democracy may have been brought to an end by mutinous soldiers during the tenure of @MBuhari, and had it not been for Bichi and his DSS, Boko Haram and ISWAP would have taken Abuja years ago.”

“Come to Nigeria and go to the courts to prove all he has said against a hard-working & decent man and a dedicated servant of the Nigerian state,” the man urged Ude to do.

“Once on Nigerian soil, I will personally ensure his safety if he chooses to come.”

In cooperation with the military and other intelligence agency chiefs of the time, he claimed, the head of the DSS “exposed and thwarted many coup attempts and ensured that the Islamist terrorists were repelled and contained.”