By Magdalene Ukuedojor

A total of 23 African countries bordering the Atlantic coast have made a commitment to tackle organised crime, trafficking and terrorism along the coast.

The countries, in a declaration achieved after the First Ministerial Conference of African Atlantic Countries in Rabat on Friday, said they would defend their territorial integrity.

We are deeply concerned over the increasingly complex threats posed by terrorism, transnational organised crime and maritime piracy.

We commit ourselves to continue with cooperation and coordination to enhance political and security dialogue around the areas of countering terrorism, transnational organised crime in all its forms, piracy, migrant trafficking and kidnapping for ransom at sea.

There is a need to act collectively by coordinating actions on a set of strategic themes and structuring sectors.

This will meet the imperatives of security, sustainable development and prosperity of this common area.

The ministers of the African Atlantic States reaffirm our firm commitment to pursue the dialogue around common principles, shared challenges and converging interests.

This is with a view to making the African Atlantic space a zone of peace, stability and shared prosperity, they said in the declaration.

The countries ministers also stressed the importance of optimising the African Atlantic space for a more concerted and coordinated migration governance as well as continued consultations to address environmental challenges.

They also called for the strengthening of transatlantic cooperation, particularly with Latin American countries bordering the Atlantic Ocean.

The ministers particularly commended the vision of the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, for coordinating a pragmatic and relevant inter-African framework for cooperation.

We hail His Majestys commitment for reactivating this geostrategic consultation framework among African Atlantic States.

They, therefore, agreed to establish the Permanent Secretariat of African Atlantic Countries in Rabat, Morocco.

The secretariat will serve as a platform for the exchange of information on challenges and opportunities in the African Atlantic space and for coordinating actions and meetings of the bloc. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

Source: NAN News

By Magdalene Ukuedojor

Nigeria has pledged to collaborate with 22 other African Atlantic Countries to achieve the vision of peace, stability, security and shared prosperity in the oceans coastal area.

Nigerias Minister of Foreign Affiars, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama, made the pledge in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Rabat, Morocco.

The minister, a lead presenter at the First Ministerial Conference of African Atlantic States in Rabat, said Nigeria would establish initiatives for the full realisation of the vision.

We are going to set up the supporting framework for it.

We are going to set up focal points, first of all in the ministry and then we will call an inter-ministerial meeting to then have a larger framework for cooperation.

This will be done so that Nigerias involvement is institutionalized and made very clear and very concrete in terms of cooperating and charting a roadmap with the other countries, he said.

NAN reports that the African Atlantic coast is threatened by insecurity, smuggling, terrorism, transnational organised crime, maritime piracy, acute environmental challenges and their consequences on food security and human flow.

The Kingdom of Morocco initiated dialogue among the 23 countries along the Atlantic coast to tackle the threats and to revive the resources of the area for shared prosperity.

The countries bordering the Atlantic are Nigeria, Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal, Gambia, Cape Verde, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Cte dIvoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Cameroon.

Others are Sao Tome and Principe, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, Namibia and South Africa.

Representatives of these countries have expressed their full support for the collaboration among the African Atlantic States, to capitalise on mutually beneficial opportunities and to tackle challenges on the coast. (NAN) (www.nan news.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Source: NAN News

By Bashir Rabe Mani

Mr Jelani Aliyu, the Director-General, National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), has inaugurated 2,322 gas-powered Made-in-Nigeria buses bought by the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the vehicles were procured by the association for its fleets in the 774 local government areas in the country.

Inaugurating the buses on Friday in Abuja, Aliyu said:It s very exciting to see that all the vehicles were built in Nigeria by an indigenous company.

I hereby congratulate the Executive National Chairman of RTEAN, Alhaji Musa Maitakobi, for the commitment to buy the Nigerian built OMAA vehicles, he said.

The director-general further called on all transport associations in the country to emulate the RTEAN and key into the National Gas Expansion Programme, by patronising Made-in-Nigeria Gas Powered Vehicles.

Aliyu said: What was witnessed was a testimony to the fact that the implementation of the National Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) by the NADDC is yielding results.

The CNG powered vehicles produced locally by OMAA Motors, will make transportation cheaper for the commuters and also save lives and protect the environment because it is a cleaner fuel compared to petrol and diesel.

As one of the 195 signatories to the Paris Accord on the mitigation of greenhouse gases, Nigeria must leverage on the huge reserves of natural gases as a transition fuel. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Taiye Olayemi

The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) on Thursday decried the problem of multiple taxation confronting its members.

Its National Chairman, Mr Patrick Lee, during the inaugural CEAN conference held at Filmhouse Cinema in Lagos, said that the problem of multiple taxation had been an age-long one which must be surmounted.

Lee said that cinemas had to pay insurance tax, entertainment and merriment tax in addition to the Federal Government tax and some others.

He said these were too much for the cinema exhibitors to break even in their businesses, as he commended the National Films and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) for trying its best in ensuring this problem was tackled.

He noted that CEAN had partnered with a reputable firm to be able to address the tax issue.

Multiple taxation is a reality in the cinemas, we are made to pay insurance tax for every customer that visits the cinema, they should be insured, we also pay entertainment and merriment tax along with the federal government tax, these are too much for us to bear, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that another set of executive council members were elected to oversee the affairs of the association in the next two years.

Mr Ope Ajayi was elected new National Chairman of the association, while Mr Moses Babatope was elected General Secretary, Mr Jonathan Yakubu and Mrs Shileola Ibironke were elected Treasurer and Publicity Secretary respectively.

Lee noted that when he assumed office few years ago, he had three objectives to be met to deliver a reporting structure that was reliable, dependable, trustworthy, and internationally accepted.

I am pleased to say that the comScore reporting system we have introduced has met those criteria and the information we provide weekly is trusted and being used as a benchmark for the progress and health of our business and the industry at large.

We have also successfully joined international organisations like NATO and the aim is to continue this international progress.

The second objective was to ensure that the association had an inclusive character, this meant ensuring that every cinema in the country was encouraged to join the association.

I am happy to report that today over 98 per cent of all the cinemas in the country are members of CEAN.

The association has also helped in setting the standards for opening new cinemas in Nigeria, he said.

Lee noted that the association had been positioned in a way devoid of controversies, establishing the right relationshipwith Nollywood and sister associations.

Alhaji Adedayo Thomas, Executive Secretary, NFVCB, commended the cinema exhibitors for their cooperation in aligning with the rules of filmmaking and exhibition in the country.

Thomas advised CEAN to formally write to the NFVCB, notifying the board of the challenge of multiple taxation, assuring that the board would wade into the problem promptly.

He urged all movie producers to align with a registered association in order to be reckoned with in the industry.

He advised the cinema exhibitors to continue to invest in capacity building of its members of staff to be able to improve on the quality of service rendered in the cinemas.

Niyi Akinmolayan, Nigerian renowned filmmaker, urged cinema exhibitors to cultivate the habit of notifying movie producers of some necessary feedbacks which could help in proper marketing of films.

He advised on nollywood ticket price flexibility, adding that films could have varied prices depending on the quality and value of the film.

Also, Keme Okwuosa, Group Chief Executive Officer, Filmhouse Cinema, advised cinema exhibitors on constant upgrade of their facilities to constantly attract viewers.

Enhance cinema-going culture by marketing your products appropriately, paint your cinemas constantly, work on the sound, cooling systems and other things that could make viewers comfortable, he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Oluwatope Lawanson

Sen. Tokunbo Abiru (APC Lagos East ) says the All Progressives Congress (APC) made the best decision in choosing Sen. Bola Tinubu as its 2023 Presidential Candidate.

Abiru who congratulated Tinubu, a former Lagos State governor on his emergence, also said that APC now have a formidable candidate that would ensure its victory at the presidential election.

In the congratulatory message by his media spokesperson, Mr Enitan Olukotun in Lagos on Thursday, the senator expressed confidence in Tinubus capacity.

Abiru who is also the Chairman, Senate Committee on Industries said: Only Tinubu have the capacity to confront the opposition and secure victory for the ruling party in the 2023 general elections.

I heartily congratulate our revered Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his victory at the APC presidential primary election.

The delegates of our dear party have made the best decision by electing Asiwaju to fly the flag of our dear party, APC in 2023.

The Bola Tinubu presidency promises to bring transformational development to Nigeria as witnessed in Lagos state, where he served as governor for two terms.

Abiru, therefore, urged Nigerians from all walks of life to look beyond premodial considerations and throw their support behind Tinubus candidacy.

He noted that complexities and protracted challenges facing the nation required a tested and experienced leader like Tinubu to tackle them headlong.

I congratulate all APC members and supporters for this historic feat.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)
recalls that Tinubu won the APC presidential ticket, defeating 13 other aspirants to emerge the flag bearer of the APC at the end of the Special National Convention of the party on Wednesday in Abuja.

Tinubu, polled a total 1,271 votes, while Rotimi Amaechi, the immediate past Minister of Transportation, came second with 316 votes, followed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo who came third with 235 votes. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Olasunkanmi Onifade

The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS), has appealed to the Federal Government to develop a national cybersecurity strategy and regulatory framework to protect the countrys cyberspace.

The President of NCS, Prof. Adeshina Sodiya, said this during the three-day cyber security forum and workshop in Abuja.

He said the initiatives must be multi-stakeholders approach, including paying close attention to the construction of incident response capacities in all sectors.

As a nation, we are not as developed in the area of cyber security like other developed countries where they meet twice a month to strategise and also update.

Any nation that is not talking or coming up with strategies on how to protect or manage the digital infrastructure is not safe.

Many organisations and individuals not only in Nigeria are moving their activities online, people want to be sure they are safe to transact and conduct their activities where they are not monitored, Sodiya said.

He, however, said many Nigerians had been victims of cybercrimes, adding that cybercrimes would be on the increase when digital economy was fully implemented in the country.

Sodiya said there were three levels of cyber-attacks, confidentiality, integrity and availability.

He, however, said cybercrime could be committed in any part of the world not necessarily in Nigeria, adding that there was need to protect the digital infrastructure.

Sodiya said the aim of the forum was to address the current situation and proffer possible solutions on cyber security to be on the same page with other developed countries.

The Chairman, African Union Cyber security Expert Group, Mr Abdulhakeem Ajijola, said there was need for more capacity building in cyber security and improvement in the area of awareness as the common man was becoming digitalised.

We need to improve in governance mechanism and make sure we adhere to the right kind of standards.

We need to make sure the policies already articulated are more thoroughly implemented in the various sectors.

Governments cannot act alone, and the participation of the technical community and the private sector as well as the civil societies are essential to building effective resilience capabilities, he said.

Mr Kola Okunola, the Director, Intelligence Strategic Data Mining and Analysis Development of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), said youths should leverage on the positive opportunities in the cyberspace.

He said the youths could improve in their field of studies as well as engage in courses and free trainings online.

Okunola commended NCS on their efforts to come up with the forum, saying there was need to have an enabling environment for the younger generation to thrive.(NAN)

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Edited by Abiemwense Moru/Grace Yussuf

Source: NAN News

By Taiye Olayemi

The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) on Thursday cautioned Nigerian content producers to desist from feeding Google, Youtube, Amazon and other online platforms with uncensored contents.

NFVCBs Executive Secretary, Alhaji Adedayo Thomas, said this during the maiden edition of the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) conference, held at Filmhouse Cinema, Victoria Island, Lagos.

He noted that content producers circulating uncensored contents on online platforms were suspected to be producers who had not registered with recognised associations in the country.

He said they should exhibit some level of respect for the laws guiding film production and distribution in the country.

According to him, feeding various internet platforms with uncensored contents has continued to affect Nigerias cultural values and the children who stumble on them unconsciously.

He said financial benefits should not only be considered in their dealings but also the moral development of the children and youths who are the future leaders.

We are concerned about maintaining our cultural and moral values, we should be mindful of the multiplier effect of showcasing obscene contents on google, amazon and all.

I call on those content producers in the habit of distributing obscene contents to google, amazon and all to desist from such, he said.

Thomas appreciated Netflix for working with the board to ensure contents released into the public domain on itsplatform were censored.

According to him, NFVCB is working unanimously with the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture to see how the circulation of these negative contents can be regulated.

He said the board had not rested on its oars in monitoring and evaluation of the entire industry as arrests were still being carried out, and seizures of films with obscene videos and vague languages.

He said that the Ghana Film Authority had informed the nation of its decision not to allow filmmakers shoot films in Ghana without seeking permission.

Earlier, Mr Patrick Lee, the outgoing National Chairman of CEAN, spoke on the need to engage government more to enjoy incentives. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Abuja natives under the auspices of Coalition of FCT Concerned Youths has urged the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello, to heed to court order by inaugurating the newly elected Area Council Chairmen.

The Convener of the coalition, Mr Joshua Yohanna, made the call at a news conference on Thursday in Abuja, while reacting to court Judgment which directed the minister to swear in the chairmen.

The FCT High Court sitting in Kubwa district under Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, on Thursday ordered immediate swearing-in of the newly elected chairmen and their councillors.

Ibrahim set aside the judgment given in favour of tenure elongation for the immediate past Chairmen and their councillors.

Reacting to the judgment, Yohanna, emphasised the need for the FCT minister to immediately direct the Chief Judge of the FCTA to administer the oath of office and swear in the chairmen and councillors-elect.

He described the judgment as courageous, adding that it had once again proved that judiciary remained the last hope of the common man.

Based on the foregoing, and according to the orders of the court, we are calling on the FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello, to immediately, without hesitation, direct that the Chief Judge of the FCT administers their oath of office and subsequently swear them.

This has become expedient, based on the fact that the area councils are already lagging in terms of administration and good governance, as a result of the vacuum created by this impasse.

We strongly believe that the minister is a man of integrity, character, and good conscience, and will keep his word, more so quickly.

He congratulated the new chairmen and councillors and urged them to hit the ground running, and work hard for the development of the FCT and the interest of the people, to enhance their lives and well-being.

Yohanna said the coalition would continue to remain a formidable and active voice in promoting good governance and human rights and justice in the administration of the FCT.

We also urge all our members, to be magnanimous in victory, while maintaining peace and goodwill.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he said. (NAN)

Source: NAN News

By Lizzy Okoji

Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Sidie Tunis has congratulated Nigeria and political parties for the smooth conduct of primaries across all levels.

Tunis gave the commendation during the opening of the 2022 First Ordinary Session of the Parliament on Thursday in Abuja.

He urged the Nigerian government, political parties and the citizens to sustain the tempo as the world looks forward to Nigeria in conducting a free, fair and credible general elections in the year 2023.

I wish to congratulate the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, particularly the political class, for the successful conduct of their primaries of the two major political parties.

We acknowledge the complexities of the Nigerian society; hence we admire the maturity and tolerance exhibited so far.

As we inch closer to full scale political activities, let me seize this opportunity to advice all actors on the need for additional tolerance in this anxious period of full-scale political activities.

The sub-region and indeed the whole world looks up to Nigeria and expects a successful, as well as free, fair and peaceful election in early 2023, Tunis said.

The ECOWAS speaker also said that 2023 will be a pivotal one for the sub-region as Member States, Nigeria, Liberia and Sierra-leone would be conducting their general elections.

He said the role of the ECOWAS Parliament in ensuring successful democratic process could not be overemphasized hence the need for long engagements before election days.

May I remind us that 2023 will be very pivotal for democracy across the region. With elections scheduled to hold in three Member States; the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Our role in ensuring that the democratic processes are conducted in a way that guarantees the best possible outcomes cannot be overemphasized.

In coordination with the ECOWAS Commission, we must begin our engagements long before the polling day to ensure successes in all the three Member States, Tunis said.

Speaking with newsmen on the sidelines of the event, Sen. Obinna Ogba Member of the ECOWAS Parliament and Nigerian legislature representing Ebonyi Central Senatorial District also commended the peaceful primary elections at all levels.

Ogba said that the conduct of peaceful and primary elections in the country which he also emerged as a gubernatorial aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) shows a growing democracy.

Ogba said the peaceful conduct of the primaries shows that a peaceful transition has also started and it is left to the people to elect their choices.

The smooth transition has started, the PDP has done their primaries, the APC have also done theirs.

I believe that Presidential candidates and others have now emerged and it is now left for the people to elect who can give them the dividends of democracy.

And, they will now elect the person when the time comes, Ogba said.

He, however, stressed that in ensuring sustained democracy, it is also important to involve citizens in the democratic process of their country.

I thank my party for giving me the opportunity to fly the flag and by Gods grace when I win the election, we need to involve everybody in governance.

And when you involve everybody in governance, it reduces a lot of tension, and if everybody has something doing, they will not have that time to engage in crime.

Poverty contributes to the problems we have. When somebody does not go to school and is at home doing nothing what do you think he will do, Ogba said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2022 First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament from June 9 to July 2 seeks to deliberate on draft community regulations emanating from the Commission.

The Parliamentarians will also discuss issues bothering on examining community strategies targeted at improving governance.

It will also address issues of unconstitutional change of governance, insecurity, and proffer solutions towards democratic consolidation in the sub-region. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Modupe Adeloye/Sadiya Hamza

Source: NAN News

Sidie Tunis

By Lizzy Okoji

Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Sidie Tunis has tasked Members of the Regional Parliament on actionable solutions to ending the insecurity, bad governance and other challenges confronting the sub-region.

Tunis made the call at the opening of the 2022 First Ordinary Session of the Parliament on Thursday in Abuja, stressing that there must be a change from just talk shops to actions.

Tunis, who lamented the spate of insecurity and political instability in Member Countries, said that citizens were counting on Parliamentarians and people in authorities for solutions.

As you are aware, our Parliamentary Sessions provides us with the opportunity to discuss wide ranging topical issues of the Community and render opinion on a number of referrals that have been presented to us.

The Supplementary Act provides that we shall reflect our views on issues of the Community by Opinion or Mandatory Assent.

The onus is, therefore, upon us to support policies that address these day-to-day issues. It has become evident that our people are much more concerned with the decisions we make and the ripple down effects they have on them.

Each time I travel across the region, I am confronted with the hard questions: What is ECOWAS doing about food shortages?

What is ECOWAS doing about rising prices of food and energy? What is ECOWAS doing about poverty eradication? among others.

These are the questions we must address. Not only with policy formulations and conferences, but with actionable solutions that are indisputable.

As we do our work over the next few days, I pray we place much more emphasis on practical results. We cannot afford to fail our people, Tunis said.

Tunis also condemned the recent act of terrorism and banditry in Nigeria and other countries of the region, which he said has caused a major setback in the affected countries.

On a sad note, terrorism, kidnapping and banditry continue to cause major setbacks for security in the region. In Burkina Faso, Mali and the Federal Republic of Nigeria the situation has worsen.

We condemn the recent attack on the Kaduna International Airport and the Abuja-Kaduna train that led to the loss of innocent lives and injuring to many others;

The gruesome attack at St. Francis Catholic Church in Ondo State that led to the killing of many, and many others unfortunate deaths across the region.

We thank the Nigerian government for its continued efforts in fighting the perpetrators of evil and call for increased vigilance in areas that are susceptible to threats, he said.

President of the ECOWAS Commission, Jean-Claude Brou commended the Members of Parliament working tirelessly during several of its sessions to discuss burning issues confronting the sub-region for possible solutions.

Brou who was represented by Vice President of the Commission, Finda Koroma lamented the security situation in member states, pledging the unwavering support of the Commission to also finding solutions.

Despite all the progress our Member States are making in running of their countries, our region continues to face numerous challenges in the areas of security, humanitarian, political and economic affairs.

We, therefore, welcome the Accra Initiative as well as other efforts by our member states to fight the menace, Brou said

Speaker of the Nigerian House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, also tasked Members of the Parliament to leverage on their positions to effect the desired change for the sub-region.

It is important for the Parliament to set the pace for better understanding of the role of the legislature in governance.

It is time to start thinking outside the box to understand the role of parliament in democracy, Gbajabiamila said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2022 First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament from June 9 to July 2 seeks to deliberate on draft community regulations emanating from the Commission.

Other agenda for discuss includes; examining community strategies targeted at improving governance, address issues of unconstitutional change of governance, insecurity, and proffer solutions towards democratic consolidation in the sub-region. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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edited by Sadiya Hamza

Source: NAN News

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor, has promised to ensure development of sports in military barracks to engaged more youths in sporting activities.

Irabor made the pledge at the closing of the 2022 edition of Abuja Military Barracks Youths Sports Championship organised by the Defence Headquarters on Thursday, in Abuja.

The CDS, was represented by the Director of Education, Defence Headquarters, Rear Adm. Chibuike Azike,

Irabor assured the youth that deliberate efforts would be made to ensure the continuous construction, renovation, reactivation and remodeling of sporting facilities within the barracks.

In additional and by way of encouragement, we shall continue to facilitate the participation of youths across all barracks in organised sports competitions around the country.

I urge all youths across all the barracks not to rest on their oars as they go about pursuing their educational and sporting careers.

There are enough challenges currently being faced by government at all levels, while efforts are on to arrest the crisis.

This championship as organised, no doubt have widened the horizon of our barracks towards exploring opportunities offered by sports, he said.

Irabor commended the Directorate of sports for a job well done in ensuring the smooth conduct of the competition.

He also commended the participating youths for the excellent performance, saying the championships must have taken a toll on their physical and mental strength.

He added that objectives set out to be achieved via the conduct of the championship had been realised.

I therefore commend all the youths for the efforts they have put into winning trophies for their teams.

You will all agree with me that every team is a winner. We can see that there are trophies in front of every team.

Specifically, I commend and congratulate the youths that have distinguished themselves by winning individual prizes during the championship,he added.

On his part, the Director of Education, DHQ, Rear Adm. Azike, said the fourth edition of the military youth sports competition started well and ended well.

Azike said the fourth edition was unique because it was held in the newly remodeled football pitch, adding that the football pitch was FIFA rating.

According to him, it means that various sporting conditions national, local and national and beyond.

So, I believe that in the nearest future, we will have talents from this particular competition to represent the country and even beyond,he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the championship features four sports including: football, basketball, volleyball and badminton involving five teams.

The teams are: Team Lungi, Team Mambilla, Team Mogadishu, Team NAF Base and Team Zuma in both male and female categories.

Team Mambilla emerged the overall winner with 620 points, Team Lungi came second with 480 points, while Team Mogadishu won the third position with 400 points.

Teams NAF Base and Zuma came fourth and fifth with 320 point and 280 points respectively. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Usman Aliyu

Mr Farouk Salim, the Director-General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), has canvassed for the strengthening of pharmaceutical sector in the country through development of standards that deal with the peculiar problems.

Salim made this call on Thursday while delivering the maiden Public Lecture of the Dora Akunyili College of Pharmacy, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the lecture was themed: The Impact of Standards on the Practice of Pharmacy Profession.

The SON boss said the call became necessary as standards in pharmaceutical sector is crucial given its role in the care of the sick.

It is the existence of standards that assures the safety of lives and properties as they establish boundaries and advocate responsibilities.

In addition, the pharmacy practice in its entirety both in the clinical and industrial practice has tolerance for error as derived from standards, he said.

Salim, who is also a pharmacist, regretted that only three per cent of the drugs in the Nigerian market are produced locally.

In spite of the great potential for the pharmaceutical industry in Africa with increasing urbanisation, healthcare capacity and supportive business environment as the major drivers of the Africa pharmaceutical market, 95 per cent of all medicines produced in Africa are imported with only three per cent being produced locally, he said.

Salim noted, however, that SON given its statutory function as the facilitator and enabler of standards and Secretariat of the Standards Council of Nigeria, was critical for the survival of the countrys industrial sector.

In his opening remark, Prof. Lawrence Ezemonye, Vice-Chancellor of the university, said the event signposted the commitment of the institution to scholastic engagements and community services aimed at strengthening its relationship with society.

Ezemonye said the management of the university recently awarded a grant of N2.5 million for the College of Pharmacy for research and drugs development.

The vice-chancellor announced that the colleges Cancer and Reproductive Research Group is currently working on development of therapeutics useful in easing labour, reducing postpartum haemorrhage and reduction in mother/child mortality/morbidity. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Editted by AbdulFatai Beki/Muhammad Suleiman Tola

Source: NAN News

By Muhammad Nasir

BUA Cement Company, Sokoto, on Thursday donated drugs and a borehole worth N25 million to nine host communities.

The Managing Director, Alhaji Yusuf Binji, who handed over the items at a brief occasion in Sokoto said the gesture was part of the companys commitment in supporting its host communities.

Binji, represented by Alhaji Sada Sulaiman, Corporate Affairs Manager, said the solar-powered borehole was donated to Dagelawa community in Wamakko Local Government Area and gulped N15 million.

The 10,000-gallon borehole is to support the community to access potable water as part of the companys commitment to address the peoples needs.

However, the drugs, which were shared among eight community clinics, are worth N10 million, in continuation of the gesture for our hosts to access free medicines, he said.

Sulaiman listed the benefitting clinics to include: Mobile Police clinic, Gidan Boka clinic, Gidan Bailu clinic, Arkilla clinic, Kalambaina clinic, Sabon Garin Alu clinic, Wajeke clinic and Bakin Kusa clinic, all in Wamakko local government.

Responding on behalf of the communities, Alhaji Zubairu Dundaye, Vice-chairman, Wamakko LGA, thanked the company for the gesture.

This is a rare gesture which will immensely support our communities and complement the state governments commitment towards addressing the needs of the people.

We are highly impressed with the support and generosity of BUA Company towards improving the living standard of our people, he said.

Dundaye urged the beneficiaries to judiciously utilise the donations for the purpose they were meant for and urged the people of Dagelawa community to safeguard the borehole from vandalism.

Also speaking, the District Head of Wajake, Alhaji Muhammadu Mailato, lauded the firm for its sustained support to the communities. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani/Julius Toba-Jegede

Source: NAN News

By Emmanuella Anokam

The price of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) basket of 13 crude oil samples stood at .54 per barrel as of Wednesday.

This is compared with .16 per barrel recorded on Tuesday.

This is according to OPEC Secretariat calculations obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Bonny Light (Nigeria) and Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea).

Others are Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela).(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Source: NAN News

By Ikenna Osuoha

Initiative for Leadership Development and Change (ILDC), an Abuja-based Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO), has described Chief Bola Tinubu as a unifier and a thoroughbred leader.

Chief Ugochukwu Nnam, National Coordinator of the group, stated this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

Nnam who congratulated Tinubu on his emergence as the Presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said that his landslide victory is a testament of his capacity as both unifier and father to all.

Tinubu, overtime, has shown leadership to not just South West but Nigerians at large.

This is a man whose vision has sustained development and prosperity in Lagos even beyond Lagos, I think he shall replicate his achievements in Lagos across the country generally, he said

The ILDC Coordinator, however, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for allowing transparency in the conduct of the partys Presidential primary.

He urged other political parties to toe the path of APC by giving all aspirants equal opportunity to test their popularity in their primaries.

Nnam said that the association, in accordance with their objective of supporting good leadership, is committed to a better and greater Nigeria.

He asserted that they are ready to support any candidate with interest of the country at heart with their 2.3 million membership strength across the country, irrespective of his party affiliation.

NAN reports that Tinubu, a national leader of the APC, emerged as the partys flag bearer for the 2023 Presidential elections on Wednesday after beating other aspirants to the ticket at the Eagles Square in Abuja.

He scored 1,271 votes to defeat his closest rivals and ex-minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo.

While Amaechi polled 316 votes, Osinbajo scored 235 votes to emerge first and second runner up to the national leader. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ehigimetor Igbaugba/Vincent Obi

Source: NAN News

By Emmanuel Oloniruha

A former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso has emerged the Presidential Candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for 2023 elections.

Kwankwaso, who was a sole aspirant, emerged as the partys flagbearer through a voice vote by delegates at the partys National Convention held at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja on Wednesday.

The former Defence Minister in his acceptance remarks, appreciated all those who dropped their presidential aspirations for him and the delegates that elected him.

Kwankwaso said that he would do whatever mattered to ensure the success of NNPP and its candidates for various elective positions in the 2023 general elections.

Our party is so lucky, having young men and women with integrity contesting various positions in 2023

While congratulating all of us, I want to urge Nigerians to vote for NNPP,

He said that NNPP stood for peace, unity, stability and development of Nigeria.

Kwankwaso urged the delegates and party members not to go back home and sleep but to keep convincing eligible voters across all ethic groups and religions to vote for NNPP in the 2023 general elections.

Kwankwaso had earlier pledged that when elected, his administration would carry citizens along without favour on ethnicity or religion bias.

He also promised that his administration would provide necessary infrastructure for the development of Nigeria.

Our government will ensure that adequate roads are provided, ensure that trains are working.

We are going to improve the aviation industry to make it more effective and affordable so that many people as possible can travel either by road by water or by air in this country, he said.

He urged all party members and supporters to register and get their Permanent Voter Cards before the suspension of registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) by June 30, to enable them vote in 2023 general elections.

Dont just say that you are supporting NNPP without getting your PVC, go and register with INEC.

Ensure that your family members, your friends and everyone around you register and vote, Kwankwaso said.

Also at the venue, the former Governor of Kano State, Ibrahim Shekarau, described the convention as a moment of change for Nigeria.

This is a moment of change for our youths and women. Change for our economy and change for the nation.

Nigeria is a potentially great nation. What we need is a purposeful and committed leadership.

We need a leadership that will give sense of belonging to every citizen and entire ethnics of the country, Shekarau said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Idris Abdulrahman

Source: NAN News

By Ismaila Chafe

President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the APC Presidential Flagbearer in the 2023 elections.

Buharis congratulatory message is contained in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, on Wednesday in Abuja.

The president said: Having emerged victorious he has our full and unwavering support.

Now our party must unite behind our candidate to achieve victory at the 2023 elections so that our government will continue to secure our communities, grow our economy and continue the fight against corruption.

During the primaries, there were factions and disagreements amongst the contestants and now that the process has ended we must build a united front in our party.

In this way, the APC will remain the party that can best deliver on the priorities of the Nigerian people. Now it is time to put the process behind us.

Because what we can all agree is that the APC remains the party that can best deliver on the priorities of the Nigerian people. But the way to demonstrate that we can get on with this job is to unite.

The movement we created in 2013 is beyond individuals. Together, we made history by becoming the first party in our countrys history to unseat a party in power and propel our candidate into the Presidency through a peaceful democratic transfer of power.

We strongly believe that Bola Ahmed Tinubu will safeguard and improve on this democratic achievement and legacy.

He is the right candidate for Nigerias aspiration because he is the APCs candidate and under the continued stewardship of our party. Nigeria can achieve greatness and fulfil its destiny in Africa and the World.

The high point of this extraordinary convention of our party was the energy of the presidential aspirants and it is from amongst them that we have chosen the most popular leader.

I recognise and commend the enthusiasm and self-confidence amongst our party men and women.

I also thank the delegates for making the right decision leading to the emergence of our candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhammad Suleiman Tola

Source: NAN News

By Deborah Akpede

The Lagos State Police Command has dismissed the alleged viral WhatsApp voice-note claiming Fulanis have invaded Badagry in Lagos.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Commands spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, on Wednesday in Lagos.

The attention of the Command has been drawn to a viral WhatsApp voice-note claiming that Fulanis have camped in Muhammadu Buhari Estate, Agemowo, Badagry in readiness for a massive attack on Badagry.

The Command wishes to state in unequivocal terms that the content of the voice-note is entirely false and mischievously designed to cause unnecessary panic within Lagos State.

It is worthy of note that there is a Police Divison close to the estate Morogbo Divison.

There is also a Police Post next to the estate Mowo Outpost. Police presence and intelligence gathering in the area is top notch.

In a bid to be double sure that the claims are false, the Divisonal Police Officer of Morogbo visited the estate again today, inspected the entire facility and had an exhaustive session with the Facility Manager.

He said that the outcome of the operational visit lent credence to the futility of the voice-note.

Hundeyin said that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, Mr Abiodun Alabi, enjoined residents to disregard the attack claim.

Alabi assured Lagosians that the Police Command, in synergy with sister security agencies, were fully prepared to nip any criminality in the bud.

He promised to leave no stone unturned in ensuring continued peace in the state. the spokesperson said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Source: NAN News

By Emmanuel Mogbede

Sen. Bola Tinubu, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), says he bears no grudges or grievances against anyone, not even those that do not support his ambition.

Tinubu, who emerged as the APC 2023 presidential candidate at its just concluded Special Convention and presidential primary election, said this on Wednesday in Abuja.

The former two-term Lagos State governor thanked the partys delegates and leadership for making him its presidential candidate for 2023 presidential election.

I humbly accept the nomination of this convention to be the presidential candidate of our enlightened, humanitarian and great party, the APC.

I also offer my sincere gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for his calm and prudent leadership throughout this process.

I thank him, also, for his steadfast determination to ensure a level playing field and a free and fair primary process for every aspirant.

Without him, I would not be standing here today as the new flagbearer of Nigerias party, Tinubu said, adding that he didnt expect to win the primary but he won.

Tinubu, while saying that he was intoxicated by the victory, thanked the partys governors for what he described as their invaluable contributions to internal democracy and unity.

He commended the partys leadership and organisers for the conduct of a successful convention and thanked the delegates for the confidence they had shown in him.

I will prove that your choice was a wise one, you have moved our party and country towards its best future. On your mandate I shall stand, Tinubu said.

He particularly commended other aspirants that contested the partys presidential ticket with him, noting that it is a difficult thing to run for president.

Tinubu said the stiff and bold competition the aspirants offered, made the party stronger and himself a better person.

I must say a special word of thanks to the seven aspirants who chose to step down their personal ambitions for the good of the party and the unity of our purpose.

The competition is now over, those who did not support me, you have nothing to fear. I hold no grudges or grievances.

Let us each agree to join hands in defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and beating back our common foes of poverty, terror and violence.

We now have a date with destiny in February 2023, let us win so Nigeria can become the nation it is intended to be, Tinubu said.

He thanked his campaign team and close advisors, saying that their dedication, long hours and sound advice made his emergence as APC presidential candidate possible.

Tinubu also thanked his wife, Oluremi, for her patience and wise counsel, and for standing by his side, saying that he is indeed a fortunate man to have her as a wife.

While acknowledging that we were faced with challenges in the country, Tinubu said we could, with determination, unity of purpose and commitment reach our finest destiny.

With help from God, we shall make this nation better for the generations to come.

President Buhari has already laid a solid foundation in security, economy and anti-corruption, we will build upon this for the salvation of our people, he said.

He said if he became the countrys next president in 2023, he would provide meaningful education and jobs for youths to enable them strive for a better future.

The former Lagos state governor noted that the countrys teeming youths was her greatest asset, adding that his administration will create jobs for youths from the Zamfara and Osun gold deposits to the vast agricultural land across the country.

We will create new opportunities in the FINTECH sector, the creative and entertainment industries, digital skills and other areas, Tinubu said.

He added that with our collective strength, we would conquer terrorism, kidnapping and violent evil of any form.

Tinubu said the ensuing contest between the APC and the PDP for the 2023 presidency would be one of competing visions.

Our vision is of progress and the future that can be, we must defeat the PDPs reactionary ideals. Our better, more progressive vision of Nigeria shall secure a better society for all Nigerians.

May this be our task arising from this convention, let nothing stand in the way of our achieving a more just society and a greater Nigeria, Tinubu stressed.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu, pulled a total 1,271 delegates votes at the APC Special Convention and presidential primary election to emerge as its 2023 presidential candidate.

Rotimi Amaechi, the immediate past Minister of Transportation, came second at the primary with 316 votes, while Vice President Yemi Osinbajo came third with 235 votes. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Iziama/Muhammad Suleiman Tola

Source: NAN News

By Solomon Asowata

Mr Mohammad Barkindo, the Secretary-General, Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), on Wednesday lauded the 2016 multilateral Declaration of Cooperation (DoC) between OPEC and non-OPEC producers.

Barkindo said it was one of the major developments that had affected the global oil industry in the last six years.

A copy of his keynote address delivered at the Atlantic Council Global Energy Forum in Washington DC, United States, was obtained by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

He said: It has been immensely pleasing over the past six years to witness the evolution of the multilateral DoC between OPEC and non-OPEC producers.

It was not an easy task bringing everyone together; it took a great deal of diplomacy, and if I might say, buckets of toil and sweat. The efforts, however, were worth it.

Its collaborative nature, and its comprehensive, adaptable and robust architecture, has allowed us to face a plethora of challenges head-on and navigate the many bumps in then road that have shaken the global economy.

I am proud to recall the way in which participants in the Declaration helped pull the industry back from the brink of catastrophe following the downturn in 2014-2016.

It was a monumental effort, but one that helped the industry rise again, like a phoenix from the ashes, and, in turn, had a positive impact on the global economy, and trade worldwide.

According to him, having the Declaration in place also proved extremely beneficial in 2020, when there was a need to react quickly and forcefully in the face of the devastating pandemic.

Barkindo said the DoC decisions helped the petroleum industry to overcome the challenges witnessed in April 2020 when global oil demand went down by 20 million barrels a day.

The DoC has over the past six years also been a shelter and a beacon of stability despite any geopolitically-induced turbulence.

The commitment of the DoC to a balanced and sustainable market was evidenced only last week when participants advanced the planned overall production adjustment for September 2022, into July and August.

This was quickly welcomed by the U.S Administration, the OPEC scribe said.

He added that the importance of the Declaration had also received backing from other producers, as well as from consumers.

Barkindo said: April 2020 proved just what can be achieved with the backing of major producers and consumers at the very highest levels of government.

We can all recall how this played out here in the U.S.

With regard to the U.S, I am also personally gratified to have witnessed the evolution of our cooperation with a variety of U.S stakeholders over the past six years.

I have sat here in Washington with the Atlantic Council, as well as in Abu Dhabi, and opened talks with other U.S institutions and private sector bodies, as well with the industry, including U.S independents.

I believe this stands the organisation in good stead; with there now being a clearer understanding among engaged US stakeholders just what OPEC is about.

It is cooperation, and a word I have already highlighted, multilateralism, that will be vital to OPECs and the industrys future. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Source: NAN News