In a heartwarming gesture, Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, Rivers State Police Command, orchestrated a love fest for 200 widows of late police officers, marking this year’s St. Valentine’s Day. The event, held at POWA Secretariat in Port Harcourt, was a celebration of love, remembrance, and support for those who lost their loved ones in the line of duty.
At the “Widows Food Basket” event, CP Disu and his wife, Mrs. Olufunmilola Disu, Chairperson of POWA in the state, assured the widows of ongoing support. Mrs. Disu emphasized the importance of reassuring the late officers’ wives that they are cherished and never forgotten.
The Valentine Love Fest on February 14 continued this commitment. CP Disu reached out to over 200 widows, providing food items and undisclosed financial support to each. The event aimed not only to celebrate Valentine’s Day but to honor the sacrifices made by the late officers and their families.
CP Disu expressed the command’s commitment to consistently honor and support the widows, acknowledging their pivotal role in caring for the children left behind by the fallen officers. He credited the initiative to Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, highlighting the importance of including late Police Officers’ Wives in such celebrations.
Mrs. Disu, addressing the widows, imparted words of encouragement, emphasizing resilience, prayer, and mutual support among them. Through POWA, she continues to provide opportunities for education, skill training, and vocational needs for association members.
Josephine Alukabu, leader of LAPOWA, expressed profound gratitude, noting that this celebration marked a significant first for widows. The widows expressed how the gesture has impacted them, praying for continued success for Commissioner Disu and his team.
This Valentine Love Fest stands as a testament to the commitment of CP Disu and the Rivers State Police Command in recognizing and supporting the families of the fallen heroes.
Category: News
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CP Disu Of River State Hosts Valentine Love Fest For Police Widows
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NIGERIA’S PATH TO FOOD SECURITY: Collaborative Efforts And Legislative Vision Drive Transformation
In a groundbreaking two-day retreat organized by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Nigeria’s food security challenges took center stage. Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), CISLAC’s Executive Director, set the tone, emphasizing the urgent need to address food insecurity and malnutrition affecting millions in Nigeria.
Rafsanjani emphasized the significance of the legislative retreat in addressing the challenges plaguing Nigeria’s food system. Highlighting the interconnected and crucial focus areas, Rafsanjani pointed out the alarming levels of food insecurity and malnutrition affecting millions of Nigerians, particularly children and vulnerable populations. The retreat provided a platform for robust policy discussions and decisive actions to combat these issues.Rafsanjani stressed the importance of enriching staples with essential vitamins and minerals to combat micronutrient deficiencies, emphasizing the need for a region-specific approach tailored to the unique characteristics of each region in Nigeria. He also underscored the vital link between a well-nourished workforce and economic growth, urging strategies to ensure access to nutritious food for working individuals and families.
Providing stark statistics from the Global Hunger Index, Rafsanjani outlined the urgent need for a resilient and sustainable food system to address the projected increase in acute hunger in 2024. He highlighted the complexities and challenges within Nigeria’s diverse agro-ecological zones, emphasizing the need for climate-smart adaptation strategies and sustainable agricultural practices.Rafsanjani called upon members of the legislature to play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges through oversight, appropriation powers, and support for initiatives such as local premix production facilities. He urged the allocation of adequate resources to regulatory agencies for effective enforcement and monitoring of compliance to fortification standards, along with expanding mandatory fortification to additional nutrients and staples based on current needs and national health priorities.
Dr. Michael Ojo, representing the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), shared his insights at the National Assembly Retreat on Food Fortification, Workforce Nutrition, and Food Systems Transformation in Nigeria.Dr. Ojo highlighted the global imperative to transform food systems for better food security, nutrition, health, and environmental sustainability. He emphasized the critical need for coordinated policy actions and stakeholder collaboration to address Nigeria’s unique challenges, including infrastructure and capacity deficits, misalignment with development goals, and a lack of technological innovation.
Acknowledging the complexities of food systems, Dr. Ojo expressed the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition’s pleasure in collaborating with CISLAC and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group through The Third-Party Advocacy Campaign. The goal is to provide insight and chart a roadmap for working with the National Assembly to improve nutrition outcomes through the transformation of Nigeria’s food systems.Dr. Ojo stressed that Nigeria’s poor diets contribute significantly to early death, morbidity, and economic inequalities. He highlighted the importance of increasing the accessibility, affordability, and desirability of nutrient-dense foods in the country. Engaging with a variety of stakeholders is necessary, and representation plays a fundamental role in this transformative endeavor.
Representative Regina Akume, Chairman of the House Committee on Food and Drug Administration and Control, delivered a speech at the two-day retreat on Food Fortification, Workforce Nutrition, and Food Systems Transformation held at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, on February 15th and 16th, 2024.Expressing her appreciation to CISLAC for organizing the retreat, Akume emphasized the theme, “Using Evidence to Inspire Action,” and its immense significance in promoting food security for Nigeria’s workforce. As the Chairman of the House Committee on Food and Drug Administration and Control and a representative from the Benue State food basket, Akume underscored the need for nutritional fortification actions to improve overall health and economic well-being.
Akume highlighted the importance of a robust legislative framework and policy on nutritional fortification to provide legal backing for advocacy, ensuring institutionalized and systemic compliance within the concepts of Food Fortification, Workforce Nutrition, and Sustainable Food Systems in the Nigerian food industry.Commending the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in organizing and participating in the retreat, Akume emphasized the necessity of knowledge sharing and capacity building for sustainable food system transformation in Nigeria. She urged participants to engage in meaningful discussions, share expertise, and explore innovative solutions to overcome challenges related to malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies.
The retreat emphasized the interconnected areas of food fortification, workforce nutrition, and sustainable food systems. Speakers called for region-specific approaches, legislative backing for nutritional fortification, and collaboration across government, industries, civil societies, and academia.Participants committed to shaping concrete policy recommendations and actionable steps to drive sustainable food system transformation, echoing a shared vision for a brighter and healthier Nigeria. The outcomes of this collaborative effort aim to contribute significantly to improved food security and nutrition outcomes across the nation.
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Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Nabs Motor Tanker SAISNIL II In Suspected Crude Oil Theft Bust
In a significant demonstration of maritime security capability, the patrol team of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, led by its Commander, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, also the Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, apprehended the Motor Tanker Vessel SAISNIL II for suspected crude oil theft.
The flagged St. Vincent & Grenadines vessel, with 11 crew members on board at the time of arrest, was intercepted after it turned off its Automatic Identification System (AIS).
Rear Admiral MB Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, highlighted the significance of AIS in monitoring vessel activities, emphasizing that turning off such systems often raises suspicions of illicit maritime activities.
Rear Admiral Hassan disclosed that the vessel, en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt for the evacuation of approximately 720,000 Liters of Crude Oil Sludge, raised suspicion due to a 48-hour manipulation of its AIS around the ABO field. Samples of the onboard product have been collected for analysis, with the results determining the subsequent course of action.
Addressing the press, Rear Admiral Hassan stressed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to transparency and invited relevant agencies to conduct independent analyses of the vessel’s cargo. He underscored the Navy’s dedication to eradicating crude oil theft in the nation’s maritime environment for economic prosperity.
The successful operation aligns with the strategic directives of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, and showcases the Navy’s relentless commitment to combating maritime illegalities.
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NCS Seizes Contraband Worth N854 Million
The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) revealed on Tuesday that its officers conducted successful operations in January 2024, resulting in the seizure of various contraband items across different locations in Ogun State.
Comptroller Ejibunu, head of the unit, disclosed the notable seizures during a press briefing at the unit’s headquarters. The seized items included 104 brand new motorcycles (“Okada”), 11 used vehicles, 23,025 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 556 cartons of slippers, and a significant quantity of foreign parboiled rice, amounting to 6.5 trailer loads. The total number of seizures amounted to 60, with a Duty Paid Value estimated at N854,156,712.
Ejibunu highlighted the diverse nature of the confiscated items, ranging from foreign rice and used clothes to cannabis sativa (Indian Hemp) and foreign tomato paste. The list also featured items like used tyres, motorcycles, slippers, and used vehicles.
Expressing appreciation for the hard work and dedication of his officers and men, Comptroller Ejibunu commended the diligence exhibited in the previous year. He also acknowledged the compliance of importers, exporters, and agents, emphasizing the importance of business integrity and adherence to Customs procedures and regulations.
Speaking about the unit’s mandate, Ejibunu emphasized the gravity of smuggling, detailing its various forms, including false declarations, concealment of goods, use of unapproved routes, forging of Customs documents, under-payment of Customs duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. He stressed the severe repercussions of smuggling on the economy, environment, health, and security.
In their renewed effort to combat smuggling, the unit activated enhanced intelligence gathering and information sharing mechanisms. This strategy identified new smuggling hot spots and schemes employed by smugglers, resulting in the successful seizures with a total duty paid value of N854,156,712.
Ten suspects were arrested in connection with the seized goods, and a revenue recovery of N83,141,803.60 was generated through documentary checks and issuance of demand notices on consignments that were found to have been short-paid.
Comptroller Ejibunu appealed to the public for support with credible information on economic sabotage and suspicious movement of goods, emphasizing that security is the collective responsibility of all citizens. He urged the public to be aware of the consequences of smuggling, emphasizing that curbing this menace requires the collaboration of all patriotic citizens and enforcement agencies.
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Nigerian Navy Undertakes Minor Shake-Up, 24 Rear Admirals, Seven Commodores Redeployed
In a strategic move, the Nigerian Navy implemented a minor shake-up, redeploying a total of 24 Rear Admirals and seven Commodores in a recent announcement. This reshuffling of appointments, revealed yesterday, marks the first collective redeployment orchestrated by Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, since his major appointments last June.
Among the notable changes, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole, previously Chief of Communications and Information Technology at Naval Headquarters, has been redeployed to the Defence Headquarters as DHQ – D DEF Cooperative. Rear Admiral Ibrahim Dewu, former Chief of Defence Civil Military Cooperation at Defence Headquarters, is now the Chief of Naval Safety and Standards (NASS).
Other significant redeployments include Rear Admiral Saheed Akinwade moving to Eastern Naval Command (ENC) as the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), and Rear Admiral Istifanus Albara appointed FOC Naval Training Command (NAVTRAC).
For Commodores, MY Abba has been moved from NHQ to DELTA as COMD, and Commodore Kolawale O. Oguntuga has shifted from NNS BEECROFT to NHQ as PSO to the Chief of Naval Staff, with Commodore RT Oladejo taking over command at NNS BEECROFT.
Source: Thisday Newspaper -
Worship For Change Foundation’s ₦33 Million Donation Illuminates Lives Of Special Needs Children Across Nigeria
In a compassionate gesture, the Worship for Change Foundation, a non-profit organization, has extended a transformative donation of ₦33 million to four schools dedicated to caring for children with disabilities. The heartfelt presentation, which took place on February 6th, 2024, in Lagos, aims to empower these institutions and offer vital support to the underprivileged.The four beneficiary schools—Joy in Africa Foundation (Asaba), Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation (Lagos), Seedo Initiative for Children with Special Needs (Abuja), and To Omo Re Centre for Special Empowerment (Ilorin)—each received ₦8.25 million, channeling hope and resources to those in need.
The generous funds were raised through the Green Worship Benefit concert, a star-studded event held on October 2nd, 2023, featuring renowned Nigerian gospel artists Nathaniel Bassey, Tope Alabi, Cobhams Asuquo, and Waje.Worship for Change has demonstrated its commitment to making a positive impact by raising over ₦120 million for 38 charities, catering to thousands of orphans and children with special needs in Nigeria.
Wale Adenuga, Chief Responsibility Officer of Worship for Change and a gospel artist, expressed the organization’s dedication to supporting vulnerable children, especially those with special needs. He stated, “These children are special, and God cares deeply for them.”Adenuga appreciated the individuals and corporate donors worldwide, emphasizing the collective effort that led to the success of the initiative. He assured stakeholders of transparency and accountability, pledging ongoing monitoring to ensure effective utilization of the funds. “We will follow up closely to verify that the money is used as intended, addressing the specific needs outlined by each school,” he affirmed.
The emotion-laden donation ceremony featured heartfelt testimonies from founders of the benefiting schools. Mrs. Kawan Aondofa-Anjira, founder of the Seedo Initiative, shared poignant experiences raising children with cerebral palsy, addressing societal stigma and discrimination. Tobiloba Ajayi, founder of Let Cerebral Palsy Kids Learn Foundation, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the societal challenges faced by children with special needs.The impactful testimonials resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the crucial role these schools play in nurturing and empowering children with special needs. Rev. Samuel Abiodun Ajayi, a beneficiary representing To Omo Re Centre, expressed immense gratitude, stating, “This donation is a godsend; we were facing numerous challenges, and this will make a significant difference.” The Worship for Change Foundation’s donation stands as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a brighter future for special needs children across Nigeria.
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Oba Elegushi’s Title Fails On Inland Waterways, As Supreme Court Struck Down Lagos State Government’s Control Of Inland Waterways
The Supreme Court of Nigeria in a land mark judgment delivered in the case of NATIONAL INLAND WATERWAYS AUTHORITY & OTHERS VS LASWA, GOV. OF LAGOS STATE & ATTORN. GEN. OF LAGOS STATE with Suit No: SC.17/2018 on the 5th day of January 2024 by JOHN INYANG OKORO JSC leading other 4 Supreme Court Justices declared null and void Lagos State Waterways Authority Law, 2008.
Since the Title of Oba Saheed Elegushi is based on the Title issued by the Lagos State Government, it follows also that the Monarch Title has also collapsed.
The above statement is based on both Law and Facts, says Olajide Ajana, a Lagos based Legal Practitioner and Real Estate Advisor.
“The Supreme Court Judgment delivered on 5th January 2024, led by Justice Okoro at page 37 stated; “I have read through both National Inland Waterways Authority Act 2004 and the Lagos State waterways authority law 2008. I have no doubt whatsoever that both statutes have identical provisions.
“Section 22 of the LASWA law defines under the control of the first respondent to include all waterways, Rivers, Creeks, lakes, tiled land and lagoons within the boundaries of Lagos State” Similar to definition of “Inland waterways” in Section 29 of national inland waterways authority act which includes all waterways. Rivers,Creeks, lakes, tiled land, lagoons below the water based line.
“The Supreme Court further held : both enactment must not and cannot subsit side by side. The National Inland Waterways Authority Act being a Federal law must prevail whereas the identical law enacted by the Lagos State act of Assembly must be and is hereby declared null and void.
“The consequese and implication of the above pronouncements by the Supreme Court which is the highest and final Court in Nigeria is that all persons including Kabiyesi Oba Saheed Elegushi who derived title from the Lagos State Government in respect of the Inland water ways are bound and affected by the Judgement of the Supreme Court with no exception.
“Once the Title and the Claims of Lagos State has failed, the Title of Oba Saheed Elegushi and others to the area being sand filled at Orange Island axis of Lagos State has also failed, being derived from the Lagos State Government.
“The press Statement recently issued by Oba Saheed Elegushi to the effect that he is not a party to the case of NIWA VS LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT and therefore attempting to trivialize impact of the judgement as circulating fake news is very unfortunate.
“The previous Press Statements issued with regard to the recent Supreme Court Decision to enlighten the general public and investors are based on Law and facts
“The General public and investors should be properly guided and understand that the Supreme Court is the highest court in Nigeria and their decisions are final and cannot be appealed.
“Also when the root Title to a property is affected, it affects everyone claiming from the same root, which is the case with Oba Saheed Elegushi’s Title which was derived from Lagos State Government.”
Olajide Ajana is a Lagos based Legal Practitioner and Real Estate Advisor with Office in Victoria Island Lagos.
oajana@yahoo.com -
CSOs Unite To Address ECOWAS Stability Threats, Advocate For Regional Harmony
Amid rising concerns over stability threats to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have joined forces to address challenges and advocate for regional harmony during an interactive meeting in Lagos.The meeting, attended by prominent organizations such as the West African Consultative Forum (WACSOF), Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), and Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), aimed to emphasize support for regional integration in West Africa.
Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), Executive Director of CISLAC and Chairman of Transition Monitoring Group, expressed concern over developments jeopardizing ECOWAS’s unity. He highlighted the importance of a united ECOWAS in addressing issues such as violent extremism, terrorism, and trans-border crimes in the region. The CSOs called for political, economic, and security stability, urging politicians to uphold democratic principles.The CSOs condemned the indefinite postponement of Senegal’s February 25th, 2024 election without widespread consultation, viewing it as an abuse of power. They emphasized the need for a united ECOWAS to combat undemocratic behaviors capable of instigating military junta.
Mrs. Chiemelie Ezeobi-Eze, Features Editor at Thisday Newspaper, brought attention to reasons Africa may struggle to unite and the imperative for unity. She outlined challenges, including mistrust among ECOWAS nations, xenophobia, language barriers, and interference from world powers. Ezeobi-Eze urged leaders to move beyond partiality, strengthen regional security, and localize laws to achieve common goals.The CSOs emphasized the role of ECOWAS in promoting economic cooperation, peace, stability, security, and good governance. They discussed recent coups in Africa, questioning the efficacy of ECOWAS in achieving its derivatives amidst eight coups since August 2020. The CSOs called for a firm, respected leader to drive ECOWAS effectively.
The discussion delved into the danger of secession from ECOWAS, citing instances of military unrest and potential threats to regional stability. The CSOs stressed the importance of dialogue in dispute resolution, cautioning against the use of force.In conclusion, the CSOs acknowledged the potential spill-over effect of recent events in the region on many countries. They reiterated the importance of every ECOWAS member state’s commitment to achieving critical objectives for economic and social prosperity.
Mr. Solomon Adoga, CISLAC Senior Program Officer, spoke on ECOWAS Vision 2050, emphasizing the need for leadership, political will, ownership, shared responsibility, complementarity, and subsidiarity to achieve the set objectives.The CSOs committed to ongoing efforts to ensure economic development, reduce poverty, and address infrastructural deficits in West Africa. The interactive meeting aimed to foster an inclusive and fruitful deliberation, promoting unity and stability in the ECOWAS region.
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MEMAN Launches Rebranded Identity, Sustainability Initiative
In a historic move, Mr. Huub Stokman, MD NNPC Retail Limited and MEMAN Chairman, announced the rebranding of the Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN) to the Major Energy Marketer Association of Nigeria (MEMAN). The transformation includes the establishment of a cutting-edge industry-competitive center, focusing on gas and renewable energies like biofuels and solar.
Mr. Huub Stokman expressed his enthusiasm for this change, emphasizing MEMAN’s commitment to embracing alternative energies while recognizing the continued importance of oil and gas in Nigeria’s energy landscape. The rebranding aligns with the United Nations Sustainability Development Goals and signifies MEMAN’s dedication to a sustainable and diversified energy future.The competitive center, a collaborative effort with the Energy Institute (EI), will serve as a hub for players in the gas industry and renewable energy sector. It aims to encourage research, information sharing, and convergence to advance the downstream industry.
Dr. Mustapha Lamorde, Executive Director of Health, Safety, Environment, and Community (HSEC) at MEMAN, emphasized the importance of sustainability. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to health, safety, security, and environmental protection (HSSE), equitable compensation for stakeholders, and continuous innovation.Mr. Stokman announced a partnership with the Energy Institute (EI) to foster a sustainable downstream energy industry in Nigeria. The EI, with its diverse network of professionals, will contribute to MEMAN’s efforts in promoting industry growth, transparency, and environmental responsibility.
The rebranding signifies a shift toward promoting a broader array of energy sources in Nigeria, reinforcing MEMAN’s dedication to the goals set forth by the Liquefied Natural Gas and Propane Regulators Association (LNDPRA). The organization aims to contribute collectively to the advancement of a sustainable and resilient downstream energy sector in Nigeria.
Dr. Mustapha Lamorde added that Nigeria’s energy transition aligns with global efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions, with a target year of 2060. He highlighted the significance of MEMAN leading this transition, emphasizing the need for a sustainable and diversified energy sector amidst challenges like energy poverty and insufficient infrastructure.
MEMAN’s transition goes beyond a change in name or logo; it reflects a fundamental shift in mindset and operations. The organization aims to reduce carbon footprints, promote energy efficiency, and ensure that businesses not only power Nigeria today but also preserve it for tomorrow.MEMAN’s commitment to the industry sustainability initiative, presented at the LNDPRA, underscores its proactive role in drafting and owning the document. The organization anticipates launching and implementing the initiative in collaboration with stakeholders by the end of the first quarter or the beginning of the next quarter.
MEMAN’s shift toward sustainability is seen as a positive move that future-proofs the organization against regulatory changes and market shifts, aligning with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. -
Prince Eniola Ojajuni Unveils Vision For Ondo State, Aspires To Transform Governance, Ignite Development As Next Governor
In a recent press statement in Akure, Prince Eniola Ojajuni, an aspirant in the governorship race of Ondo State under the Labour Party (LP), outlined his reasons for aspiring to the gubernatorial position, asserting that he possesses the necessary qualities to significantly contribute to the state’s development.
The politician and entrepreneur highlighted the existing challenges facing Ondo State, emphasizing the need for individuals with extraordinary ideas to address these issues effectively. Ojajuni expressed confidence in his ability to transform the state, stating that governance in recent years has been marked by mere trials.
Calling for a departure from the politics of violence, Ojajuni urged fellow gubernatorial aspirants to embrace politics centered on ideas and development. He emphasized that this shift is crucial for moving the state forward and positioning it competitively among other developed states in the nation.
Ojajuni remarked, “I have seen the plight of my people. Governance has been mere trials, and we all know that things can be far better than what they are today. I am here to make a difference; to deliver genuine dividends of democracy in the health sector, transportation, infrastructure, and total poverty alleviation through various empowerment programs.”
The aspirant, who hails from Ilaje, highlighted his humble beginnings and emphasized his commitment to making a positive impact. He cited his establishment of a scholarship scheme benefitting over 3,000 students across the 18 Local Government Areas of Ondo State, placing a particular focus on education.
Ojajuni, an investment consultant with experience in major banks, outlined his plans for the state, including expanding the scope of businesses and investments, developmental attention to education, free education up to the university level through subsidization, improved primary healthcare, job creation, infrastructural development, and entrepreneurial support.
He expressed his dedication to creating the Ondo State Investment Fund for young entrepreneurs, initiating projects for market women and traders, upgrading the transport sector to generate jobs, fostering a friendly environment for investors, ensuring financial autonomy for Osopadec, and providing housing and job opportunities across the state.
As Ojajuni vies for the governorship position, he stands on a platform of transformative governance and holistic development, promising a future that addresses the needs and aspirations of the people of Ondo State.