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FCTA Concludes Capacity Workshop, Develops 2026 Operational Plan

Manomsi Mallum
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FCTA Concludes Capacity Workshop, Develops 2026 Operational Plan

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has concluded a four-day capacity-building workshop for health leaders and managers, culminating in the development of a 2026 Annual Operational Plan (AOP) fully aligned with the FCT health budget.

The event was held under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) programme, with technical support from the Federal Ministry of Health.

Speaking at the opening session, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, urged participants to deliver a data-driven and budget-linked AOP.

Dr Fasawe emphasised that aligning the plan with government priorities would enable the FCT to access funding via the Disbursement Linked Indicators (DLIs) and attract more robust support from development and implementing partners.

The training drew over 70 senior health officials from across the FCT and partner organisations. It marked a significant step in strengthening FCT’s health systems and enhancing service delivery.

Read Also: Northern Lawmakers Unite to End Zero-Dose Crisis

The 2026 AOP integrates critical national and local priorities, including the HOPE Health Agenda, Health Sector Strategic Blueprint (HSSB), and the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation Initiative (MAMII).

In a post-training assessment, Lami Tauhid Ndayako, Dr Saleh Mansur Ashafa, Dr Magaji Basil, and Bolaji Aliyu emerged as the top performers, having demonstrated a strong grasp of planning principles and a sound understanding of the HSSB, SWAp, HOPE Governance, and MAMII context.

Earlier, Dr Teresa Nwachukwu, Acting Director of Health Planning, Research, and Statistics and FCT SWAp Desk Officer, said participants were equipped with crucial skills in health systems frameworks, systems thinking, bottleneck analysis, and problem-solving.

She added that attendees received training in the HOPE Disbursement Linked Indicators, healthcare delivery strategies, data literacy for decision-making, and performance dialogue.

The workshop also featured modules on monitoring and evaluation, accountability, research and learning (MEARL), leadership, team building, change management, and interactive sessions using the web-based AOP tool.

Dr Nwachukwu highlighted key financing gaps identified during the workshop.

These include the lack of budget lines for essential activities such as monitoring and evaluation, family planning, nutrition, public health laboratories, risk communication, and emergency services across various FCT Secretariats, Departments, and Agencies—despite existing recommendations by the National Council on Health.

The workshop concluded with a final communiqué, issuing a strong call to action.

Participants resolved to enhance alignment and coordination with development partners, bolster health financing at the Area Council level, institutionalise regular capacity building for health workers, and advocate for increased domestic and donor funding for the sector.

A key output was the accelerated development of an equity-focused, budget-aligned 2026 Annual Operational Plan, reflecting FCT health sector priorities.

The workshop brought together stakeholders from FCT Secretariats, Area Councils, and implementing partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), ARFH, Pro-Health, and Elephant Health.

The sessions were facilitated by national experts from the Federal Ministry of Health and SWAp Desk Officers.

 

Kogi State Pledges Road Rehabilitation, Security for Bunu People

Peace Piak Kanu
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Kogi State Pledges Road Rehabilitation, Security for Bunu People

The Kogi State Government has pledged to prioritise the safety of the Bunu people and rehabilitate dilapidated roads in the district, in line with promises made by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo during his electioneering campaigns.

The Deputy Governor, Salifu Joel Oyibo, made the pledge at a reception marking the 100th birthday of the Olubunu of Bunu, His Royal Majesty Oba Joseph Ikusemoro, and his 64th anniversary on the throne.

Oyibo assured the people that the administration would fix the Edumo–Okeoffin–Ayede–Olle–Iluke road, a major route connecting over 20 communities. He said, “As for the security of this area, you can all attest that the Government of Kogi State has not rested and will never rest until everyone can sleep with both eyes closed.”

He commended the Bunu people for their endurance, assuring them that their suffering due to poor road conditions would soon end.

The National President of the Bunu Development Association, Pastor Kolawole Johnson, said rehabilitating the Edumo–Okeoffin–Ayede–Olle–Iluke road would significantly improve security in the district.

He noted that bad roads had contributed to rising criminal activities.

Pastor Johnson told the Deputy Governor, “Your Excellency, like Oliver Twist, the Bunu people will continue to ask more from your government—particularly in the area of security, for the protection of lives and property in the district. Another paramount request is the reconstruction of the Edumo–Okeoffin–Ayede–Olle–Iluke road.

“It is very disheartening to inform you that the Ihale–Taki road is not motorable during the rainy season. This has deprived residents of the ability to transport their farm produce to the markets. Even ceremonies are often postponed due to the condition of the road. We would be grateful if you could issue an express directive to the Kabba/Bunu Local Government to commence immediate grading of the Aiyegunle Ighun–Aduratedo–Ape–Igori–Aherin–Eshi road, as well as the Ofere–Ihale–Taki road and the Edumo–Okebukun–Okeoffin bypass road.”

The State Security Adviser, retired Commander Jerry Omodara, said the centenary celebration united the people and drew government attention to challenges hindering the district’s development.

The President of the Olle Development Association, Mr. John Ibisagba, described the Olubunu as a symbol of unity and a pillar of wisdom. He said, “The Olubunu’s hundred years on this earth and sixty-four years on the throne are a testament to God’s grace and a life of discipline, dignity, and service. He is more than a custodian of tradition—he is a pillar of wisdom, a bridge between generations, and a symbol of unity for all of Bunu land.”

Dignitaries from various walks of life attended the event, including Governor Ododo, represented by Deputy Governor Oyibo.

The Olubunu of Bunu, Oba Joseph Ikusemoro, thanked God for his centenary and 64 years on the throne and appreciated all who joined him for the celebration.

PIAK

Azuka Okwuosa Wins APC Nomination for Anambra South Senatorial Bye-election lection

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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Azuka Okwuosa Wins APC Nomination for Anambra South Senatorial Bye-election lection

In a notable development for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State, former governorship aspirant Hon. Azuka Okwuosa has secured the party’s ticket for the upcoming senatorial bye election in the Anambra South senatorial zone, scheduled for August 16.

This bye-election aims to fill the vacancy left by the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who passed away a year ago in the United Kingdom.

Okwuosa, a seasoned politician with a robust career, including roles as a local government chairman and commissioner, emerged victorious in a keenly contested primary against Mr. Obinna Uzor.

In a vote conducted by a seven-member committee from the APC National Secretariat, chaired by Chief Henry Ikoh, Okwuosa garnered 470 votes, while Uzor secured 57 votes. A total of 594 delegates participated from all seven local government areas within the senatorial zone, with 22 votes deemed invalid.

Chief Ikoh announced the results, affirming the peaceful conduct of the election witnessed by representatives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the media.

“By the authority given to me by the acting national vice chairman of APC, I confirm that an election was held. The exercise was peaceful, and I hereby declare that Azuka Okwuosa won the election,” he stated.

In his acceptance speech, Okwuosa expressed his gratitude for the support he received but acknowledged the mixed emotions surrounding his victory due to the legacy of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.

“There is no winner, there is no loser. APC won. The greater battle is out there, and APC, as a party at the centre, is poised to win the election to continue the legacy of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah,” he remarked.

Reflecting on Ubah’s impact, Okwuosa expressed his determination to build on the late senator’s contributions, stating,

“He was a great senator and within the period he was in the Senate, he did a lot. I see it as a challenge for me to take over from where he stopped.”

Born on November 3, 1959, in Jos, Plateau State, Okwuosa hails from a devout Christian family in Anambra State. He has previously contested for the governorship on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and had a brief association with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from 1999 to 2003 before joining the APC.

His experience includes serving as the chairman of the Nnewi North Local Government Council and Commissioner for Works and Transport in Anambra State, as well as Secretary-General of the South-East Development Initiative from 2002 to 2010.

Lawmaker Eulogies Late President Buhari’s Impact On Nigerian Political Space 

Dominica Ijeoma Nwabufo
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Lawmaker Eulogies Late President Buhari’s Impact On Nigerian Political Space 

The member representing Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency and leader of the Northern Regional Caucus of the House of Representatives, Mr. Al-Hassan Ado Doguwa, has described the late President, General Muhammadu Buhari as a leader who left profound and far-reaching positive impacts on Nigeria’s political space and leadership qualities.

He stated this in a tribute for the late President.

Mr. Doguwa noted that, the passing away of certain individuals in the society leaves an irreparable void too deep in the lives of many as the death of President Buhari did to Nigeria and Nigerians.

“Late President Buhari was such a mentor, a father figure, and a statesman whose legacy will endure for generations. He was a man of uncommon integrity, rare honesty and profound dignity; resolute in character, steadfast in purpose, and unwavering in his commitment to personal principles for the greater good of our country.

“His service to Nigeria, spanning more than six decades, was marked by discipline, honesty, and a deep-seated love for the nation. Whether as military Head of State from 1983 to 1985, or as a democratically elected president from 2015 to 2023, Buhari’s impact on the Nigerian political space was profound and far-reaching”. Mr. Doguwa said.

The lawmaker said, as military Head of State, late Buhari introduced a regime of discipline and accountability at a time when Nigeria was sliding into corruption and moral decay.

“Although critics saw his methods as stern, his intentions were clearly for the greater good of Nigerians. His military government focused on restoring public confidence, strengthening national institutions, and enforcing public discipline. Those were difficult times, and history will remember that he governed with the conviction that Nigeria must be put on the path of justice.

“As civilian President, Buhari’s government achieved monumental successes in combating corruption, enhancing security, promoting economic development, and enhancing democratic principles, fair play and justice. He ensure unfettered reign of the principles of Separation of Powers between the three arms of Government”. He said.

According to the lawmaker, late President Buhari became the first opposition candidate in Nigeria’s history to defeat a sitting President which he said was a testament to the public’s faith in his personal integrity.

He said, “elected twice, he led with a sterling commitment to fighting corruption, national security, and infrastructural reinvigoration. His administration laid the groundwork for long-term reforms, investing in rail, road, and energy infrastructure that will serve Nigeria for decades to come. Under his leadership, the fight against Boko Haram was intensified, and the Nigerian military regained considerable grounds in the North-East.

“His commitment to rooting out corruption was unwavering, earning him both criticism and admiration, but always reflecting his sincere belief in Nigeria’s potential to be great”.

Mr. Doguwa further informed that, as Chief Whip during the 8th Assembly, he came closer to President Buhari when he noticed his sterling qualities of being an honest, detribalised and democratic president whose penchant for the welfare of the Nigerian people remained paramount in his mind at all times.

He recalled that, “During a recent interaction with former Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, he said he considered it one of the great honours of his life to have worked during Buhari’s administration as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

He said he witnessed first-hand his unwavering support for the legislature, even when some people sought to manipulate his office for partisan interests.

When the political tides became rough and there were attempts to destabilise the 9th National Assembly, President Buhari stood firm, in his belief that only the national interest matters.

“True to his word, he resisted all attempts to undermine the legislative institution, and in doing so, contributed to one of the most stable and productive legislative sessions in Nigeria’s recent memory. His support extended beyond personal; it was institutional and highly principled”.

According to Hon. Doguwa, Buhari first spotted Femi Gbajabiamila on television screen when he was Minority Leader in the House of Representatives.

He said, “But he identified in him characteristics of a man who could lead Nigerian legislative house. So, he easily supported him for Speaker position during his administration.

“Femi Gbajabiamila has lost not just a father. For me he truly lost a fan, a mentor and a personal hero. I remember, Buhari once told me that he simply came to like Femi and wanted him to be the Speaker based on what he saw him doing on the floor of the House as a Minority Leader then.

“He said he loved his parliamentary acumen as well as his outstanding legislative performances, most of which he only viewed and read them on the television and on the pages of Newspapers. Sadly, today, our hero is no more”.

Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum Lauds President Tinubu’s Appointment Of OGFZA Chairman

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum Lauds President Tinubu’s Appointment Of OGFZA Chairman

The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF) has expressed its heartfelt appreciation to President Ahmed Tinubu for the recent appointment of Lydia Musa as the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority (OGFZA).

In a press statement, the Chairman of the SKJF, Ango Bally, highlighted the significance of this appointment, viewing it as a pivotal move towards greater inclusivity, particularly for Southern Kaduna and other historically marginalized areas in Nigeria.

“This appointment is a commendable gesture that reflects a welcome shift toward equitable representation under President Tinubu’s leadership,” Bally stated.

“It fulfills a long-standing aspiration for national integration and showcases the government’s commitment to giving voice to all regions.”

Lydia Musa, a native of Kaduna State, is recognized as a highly qualified and dedicated professional renowned for her expertise in public administration and policy leadership, particularly within the oil and gas sector.

The Forum emphasized that her appointment is not only deserved but also crucial to advancing the objectives of the federal government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” Musa’s credentials, which include sharp intellect and sound judgment, position her well to lead the Authority in fulfilling its strategic mandate of attracting investments, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas free zones.

“The SKJF encourages Musa to serve not just as a leader but as a distinguished ambassador for Southern Kaduna,” Bally added.

“Her leadership has the potential to showcase the talent, resilience, and capacity that our region has to offer on a national platform.”

The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum extended its gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing the region’s contribution to Nigeria’s development goals, specifically in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda.

In conclusion, the SKJF, which operates under the motto “Advocacy For Inclusive Development,” reaffirmed its commitment to uphold democratic values by holding the government accountable and highlighting initiatives that promote inclusivity and equitable progress across all regions of Nigeria.

 

Olusola Akintonde

NiDCOM Boss:2025 National Diaspora Day to Optimize Diaspora Potential

Foluke Ibitomi
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NiDCOM Boss:2025 National Diaspora Day to Optimize Diaspora Potential

By Margaret Ebeshi

 

The Chairman/CEO Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, NIDCOM, Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has said this year’s celebration of the National Diaspora Day, NDD is both a renewed commitment and an elevated platform for optimizing diaspora potential.

She made this assertion at a press briefing in Abuja, Nigeria, ahead of the 2025 National Diaspora Day celebrations to take place at the Banquet-hall of the State Conference Centre, Presidential Villa, on the 25 and 26 of July, 2025.

Dr. Dabiri-Erewa speaking on the theme: “Optimising Formidable Diaspora Potentials for National Development and Growth”, said it has become imperative to move beyond sentiments and statistics to sustainable frameworks that “builds a Nigeria where our diaspora community is seen, heard and harnessed; not just celebrated occasionally, but embedded structurally.” 

She added that the NDD presents a platform for optimizing the potential of the over 20million-diaspora-community globally beyond remittances, through intellectual capital, policy influence, business partnerships, Launching of the Diaspora home and abroad housing platform and generational wealth creation through investments.

The two-day event will feature thematic sessions, panel discussions, youth mentorship programmes, strategic partnership dialogues, networking opportunities, and National Diaspora Merit Awards, which will recognize Nigerians in the diaspora that have proven themselves as resilient change-makers, solution providers, and proud ambassadors of Nigeria.

She appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for diaspora engagement under his administration, as well as other government agencies, public and private sector organisations, and the media for their collaboration.

Dr.Dabiri-Erewa noted that the registration for physical attendance at the event has closed but interested participants can still be a part of the event virtually by registering on: www.nidcom.gov.ng/diasporaday, or you may also follow all official NiDCOM social media platforms for real-time updates and enquiries.

EU Gears Up Retaliation Plans Against US Tariff

Ejiofor Ezeifeoma
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EU Gears Up Retaliation Plans Against US Tariff

The European Union is gearing up set of possible counter-measures against the United States as prospects for an acceptable trade agreement with Washington fade, according to EU diplomats.

An increasing number of EU members, including Germany, are now considering using wide-ranging “anti-coercion” measures which would let the bloc target U.S. services or curb access to public tenders in the absence of a deal, diplomats say.

The European Commission, which negotiates trade agreements on behalf of the 27-member bloc, had appeared on course for a agreement in which the EU would still have faced a 10% U.S. tariff on most of its exports, with some concessions.

Such hopes now seem dashed after President Donald Trump’s threat to impose a 30% tariff by August 1, and following talks between EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and U.S. counterparts in Washington last week.

Sefcovic, who has said a 30% tariff would “practically prohibit” transatlantic trade, delivered a sober report on the current state of play to EU envoys on Friday, diplomats told Reuters.

U.S. counterparts had come up with diverging solutions during his meetings, including a baseline rate that could be well above 10%, the EU diplomats added.

“Each interlocutor seemed to have different ideas. No one can tell (Sefcovic) what would actually fly with Trump,” one diplomat said.

Prospects of easing or removing 50% U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminium and 25% on cars and car parts appear limited.

‘Nuclear Option’

Washington has also rejected the EU’s demand for a “standstill” arrangement, whereby no further tariffs would be imposed after a deal is struck. The rationale, according to diplomats, is that Trump’s hands cannot be tied on national security, the basis of Section 232 trade investigations into pharmaceuticals, semiconductors and timber.

Accordingly, the mood has pivoted among EU countries, EU diplomats say, and they are more ready to react, even though a negotiated solution is their preferred option.

The EU has one package of tariffs on 21 billion euros ($24.5 billion) of U.S. goods that is currently suspended until August 6. The bloc must still decide on a further set of countermeasures on 72 billion euros of U.S. exports.

Discussions have also increased on using the EU’s wide-ranging “anti-coercion” instrument (ACI) that allows the bloc to retaliate against third countries that put economic pressure on member states to change their policies.

 

 

 

Source:Reuters/Ejiofor Ezeifeoma

Academic Body COEASU Commends TETFund For Exceptional Performance 

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Academic Body COEASU Commends TETFund For Exceptional Performance 

The President of the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), Dr. Smart Olugbeko, has commended the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) for its exceptional performance under the leadership of Arc. Sonny Echono.

Dr. Olugbeko made the remarks while addressing a group of Nigerian students from Colleges of Education who paid a courtesy visit to the COEASU leadership in Abuja, Nigeria

The students, who represented various institutions across the country, had come to thank the leadership of the Union for its giant roles towards Federal government’s approval of the Dual Mandate for Colleges of Education, which grants Colleges of Education degree-awarding status.

The students’ spokesperson, Comrade Ahmed Akande, commended the COEASU leadership for its efforts in ensuring the realisation of the Dual Mandate in Colleges of Education.

However, he also charged the leadership of the Union to ensure that the Federal government pays students on teaching practice monthly stipends, just like their counterparts in Engineering and Medicine who receive stipends during industrial attachment or housemanship.

On the degree awarding status for Colleges of Education, Dr. Olugbeko asked the students to appreciate the President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for signing into law the bill that grants degree awarding status to Colleges of Education and for the president’s positive disposition towards payment of teaching practice stipend to students and lecturers.

Dr. Olugbeko revealed that the implementation is being worked out by the Federal Government while TETFund has been identified as a critical stakeholder in the implementation.

“The involvement of TETFund in the implementation process of the Teaching Practice stipend is a guarantee of its successful execution. TETFund under the leadership of Arc. Sonny Echono has transformed into a beacon of excellence in public service, and the major source of running public tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

“We are proud to associate with the Fund. We have every confidence that TETFund will bring its characteristic efficiency and transparency to the process of the implementation of the disbursement of the stipends when the time comes,” Dr. Olugbeko said

According to Dr. Olugbeko, “TETFund handles huge sum of money every year and has been very transparent in the disbursement of the funds to tertiary institutions.

“It is one organisation that is not afraid of inviting the academic staff unions: COEASU, ASUU and ASUP to be involved in the monitoring of its activities when many organisations become hypertensive whenever they see the unions. The unions have been able to provide critical feedback to the TETFund which has reflected in the efficiency of its operations.

“Thus, TETFund has transformed into one of the best-run government institutions in Nigeria, demonstrating remarkable focus, transparency, and proactiveness. The Fund’s commitment to supporting tertiary education in Nigeria is laudable, and its impact is being felt across the country, and it is in the recognition of this that the Federal government considered TETFund as a critical stakeholder in its implementation”.

The President of COEASU also commended the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for his transformative activities in the Ministry, stressing that since his assumption of office, the Minister has been working tirelessly to ensure Nigeria’s education sector is well-positioned for greatness.

Dr. Olugbeko specifically praised the Minister for his support towards the implementation of the Dual Mandate in Colleges of Education, which has been a game-changer for teacher education in Nigeria.

The COEASU President thanked the students for their visit and reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to supporting their welfare and interests. He assured them that COEASU would continue to work tirelessly to ensure that their concerns are addressed and their needs are met.

“We are committed to supporting the development of tertiary education in Nigeria, and we will continue to work with all stakeholders to achieve this goal,” Dr. Olugbeko said.

Dr. Olugbeko charged the students to shun evil acts and remain good ambassadors of their institutions, adding that as teachers in training, they must demonstrate the good qualities of teachers in all their endeavours.

 

Olusola Akintonde

Group Demand Establishment of Police Pension Board In Ilorin

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Group Demand Establishment of Police Pension Board In Ilorin

A group of retired police officers under the banner of the Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria (ARPON), Kwara State Chapter, North Central Nigeria staged a peaceful protest in Ilorin on Monday, demanding the immediate establishment of a Police Pension Board to independently manage the pension affairs of officers of the Nigeria Police Force.

The protesters, who marched to the Press Centre of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, lamented what they described as years of suffering under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they said has failed to cater adequately for the welfare of retired police personnel.

Holding placards with bold messages such as “Establish Police Pension Board Now!”, “We Deserve Better After 35 Years of Service!”, and “If CPS is Fair, Why Did Top Police Brass Exit?”,the retired officers called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Inspector General of Police to intervene urgently by removing police retirees from the CPS and creating a dedicated pension board for the force, akin to what is obtainable in other security agencies.

Chairman of the association in the State, retired Chief Superintendent of Police Yakubu Jimoh, said the demand is long overdue.

He urged the federal government to heed their call and implement legislative action to exit police retirees from the contributory scheme and establish a Police Pension Board that will ensure justice and fairness in the management of pensions.

“We are not asking for too much,” Jimoh said. “Our colleagues in the military and DSS are already out of this scheme and enjoy better pension packages. We, who risked our lives to maintain law and order for over three decades, deserve no less. A Police Pension Board should be created immediately to oversee our pension matters.”

He also demanded the release of the report from the Senate Committee on Establishment and Public Services on the bill proposing the creation of the board, which has been pending since the public hearing in November 2024.

Furthermore, he called for expedited disbursement of the N758 billion pension shortfall owed security agencies, noting that June 2025 had earlier been announced as the proposed date for payment.

“We are told the money is coming next year, but how many of us will still be alive by then?” he asked rhetorically. “The longer we wait, the more our members suffer and die without benefitting from what they’ve earned.”

Jimoh decried the injustice of junior officers receiving meager gratuities and monthly stipends despite dedicating their entire careers to national service.

He cited the case of a retired Superintendent of Police receiving just N2.4 million as gratuity and N30,000 monthly pension.

In a jointly signed letter presented to journalists, ARPON members questioned why only top police brass—Inspector Generals, Deputy Inspector Generals, and Assistant Inspector General have been exempted from the CPS while lower-ranking officers continue to suffer.

“Where are we exiting to?” Jimoh said. “We want to go where our police generals have gone. We all served this country. Why the discrimination?”

Legal Adviser of the association, retired Superintendent of Police Adekunle Iwalaiye, added emotional weight to the protest, emphasizing the inhumane treatment retired officers face due to the inefficiencies of the contributory scheme.

“After 35 years of meritorious service, what we get is far from a living wage,” he said. “Many of us sustained injuries in the line of duty, some carry permanent bullet wounds. We have sacrificed our youth for Nigeria. All we ask is to be treated with dignity.” he stressed.

Iwalaiye noted that many retired officers receive pensions below N50,000, a sum he said cannot even purchase a bag of rice. He said this financial hardship has exposed their families to untold suffering and led to the premature deaths of many retirees due to lack of access to healthcare.

“We are not criminals, we are not violent,” he said. “We simply want to live in retirement with dignity and peace of mind. Establishing a Police Pension Board is the way forward.” he added.

The protesters vowed to sustain their agitation until the federal government establishes the proposed Police Pension Board and exits all police retirees from the Contributory Pension Scheme.

 

Olusola Akintonde

Orumba South Constructs Erosion System, Empowers Farmers And Youths

Oyenike Oyeniyi
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Orumba South Constructs Erosion System, Empowers Farmers And Youths

The Chairman of Orumba South Local Government Area in Anambra State, Hon. Shedrack Azubuike, has commissioned a 220-meter erosion control project in Okukoro Ajaekpe as part of his administration’s efforts to mitigate environmental degradation in the region.

Announcing this during a recent community engagement campaign, Hon. Azubuike highlighted the project as a key intervention under his one-year stewardship, aimed at safeguarding local infrastructure and farmland from erosion threats.

In addition to erosion control, the council distributed over 9,000 yam seedlings, cassava cuttings, and 4,000 units of improved maize seeds to farmers across the LGA, supporting agricultural productivity and food security.

Azubuike also unveiled a series of development initiatives, including the transformation of Nkwo Triangle into a functional Central Park for commercial transport operators, the commissioning of a modern ICT centre, and the re-equipping of the Amuda Primary Health Centre to enhance healthcare delivery.

Under the auspices of the Nwabugo Empowerment Foundation, the administration has empowered youth through vocational tools and financial grants, including a ₦1 million startup capital awarded to a promising local entrepreneur. Skills development programmes in cybersecurity, tailoring, agriculture, and welding are currently underway.

Azubuike further noted the administration’s ongoing support for education, security enhancement, and the distribution of food palliatives to vulnerable households, underscoring his commitment to holistic community development.

“Our administration has executed impactful projects ranging from erosion control and road rehabilitation to youth empowerment and agricultural support,” he said.

With the November 8 gubernatorial election approaching, the council chairman reiterated his support for Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s re-election bid, describing the governor’s leadership as transformational. He emphasized that grassroots mobilization across Orumba South’s 18 wards is in full swing to ensure continued progress.

“Governor Soludo deserves our full support to consolidate on the visible progress made in infrastructure, education, health, and economic empowerment across Anambra State,” Azubuike declared.

He concluded by expressing confidence that Orumba South will deliver overwhelming support for Governor Soludo, as the administration continues to engage constituents with its development record and vision for continuity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oyenike Oyeniyi 

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