Governor Bello Signs Kogi State Free Examination Registration Fees Bill, 14 Others into Law

By

-

January 24, 2024

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, on Wednesday assents to a total of 15 bills including the Kogi State Free Examination Registration Fees Bill,that had been diligently passed by the State House of Assembly.

Governor Bello, while putting his signature to these legislative measures, took a moment to commend the State Assembly for their invaluable contributions to the overall development of Kogi State. Recognizing the importance of a robust legislative framework, the governor praised the Assembly for their dedication to the betterment of the state.

the Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Aliyu Umar, extended heartfelt congratulations to Governor Bello for the successful completion of his terms in office. Acknowledging the lasting impact of the governor’s administration over the last eight years, Aliyu praised Bello for leaving behind indelible marks of progress.

Expressing his feeling, Aliyu noted that these bills, being the last to be signed by Governor Yahaya Bello, mark the end of an era. The Speaker emphasized the state’s gratitude for the governor’s invaluable guidance, profound wisdom, and deep vision that have played pivotal roles in steering the state towards growth.

Looking to the future, Aliyu expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor-elect Ahmed Usman Ododo. He believes that Ododo will not only consolidate but also continue the legacy of good governance established by Governor Yahaya Bello.

Among the notable bills signed into law by Governor Bello is the repeal of the Kogi State Internal Revenue Administration, Harmonization of Taxes, Duties, Levies Rates, Fees, and Charges due to the State and Revenue Appeal Tribunal Law 2017. This has been re-enacted as the Revenue Administration and Other Matters Connected Therewith Law, 2024.

Additionally, other bills include the establishment of the Kogi State Social Investment and the establishment of the Kogi State Senior Secondary Education Board, among others.

This brings to a total of 89 bills assented to by the governor of Kogi State between January 27, 2016 and January 24, 2024

This legislative milestone signifies a pivotal moment in the governance of Kogi State, setting the stage for continued development and progress.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
January 24, 2024

MISINFORMATION ON THE ALLEGATION OF CERTIFICATE FRAUD AGAINST EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF THE FEDERAL CHARACTER COMMISSION, DR MUHEEBADANKAKA OON, NPOM

By

Social Plus Africa

-

January 17, 2024

0

PRESS RELEASE

Some social media houses have provided platform for the five aggrieved Federal
Character Commissioners who h have vowed to frustrate the Chief Executive of the Commission,
Dr. Muheeba Dankaka OON, NPOM by all means and at all cost through which they launched
unwarranted attacks on the personality and integrity of the Chief Executive Officer of the
Federal Character Commission.

The latest impression given to the general public through some social media platform
was that the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission has been arrested,
drilled and detained for hours by the Nigeria Police and Economic and Financial Crime
Commission respectively following allegation of Certificate fraud made against her which is one
of the blackmail strateqy adopted by the five aggrieved Commissioners.
Granted that the allegation of certificate fraud was made against the Executive
Chairman through one Civil Society Organization by the five aggrieved Commissioners, the
allegation has been responded to. The Executive Chairman, times without number has made it
clear that her academic record is open to anybody who cares to know, having undergone her
academic career in Nigeria; Bayero University, Kano and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria for her
Graduate and Post Graduate Studies.
4 When a petition is written against a Public Servant either to EFCC or any government
agency entrusted with the power of investigation, it is the duty of such Agency to invite the
accused for interrogation and clarification. This is exactly the case with the Executive Chairman
of the Federal Character Commission. She was invited to clear herself of the allegations made
against her and was neither arrested not detained as wished by her detractors.
5
Since the wish of the detractors cannot be forced on the constituted authority
responsible for investigations, the most appropriate thing to do is to allow the investigating
authority to do their job and come out with their findings and recommendations. It is therefore
appropriate to await the findings.
Dr. Chuks Okoli
Director, PAC

GREEN WORLD ABUJA LEADERS CONDUCTS MEDICAL OUTREACH, EMPOWER OVER 200 PEOPLE IN ABUJA.

By

Social Plus Africa

-

January 15, 2024

0

The Green World Abuja Leaders have organised an empowerment and health program that brought together different professionals within and outside Abuja to improve their living standard.

Speaking at the event in Green World Hotel at Utako FCT. The National Coordinator Green World Abuja Leaders Amb. Uchenna Eze said that the activity was to provide economic empowerment and medicare to residents of Abuja and it’s environs.

He further said that the expectation of the exercise was also to provide care to patients with various ailments of all ages and sex in the area.

While speaking on the theme of the program TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THE PROVEN SYSTEM. Amb. Eze revealed that the forum has been on this empowerment program for years improving lives and changing destinies and he has benefited immensely both financially, materially and phyisically from the GREEN WORLD company that s based in China.

Earlier the guest speaker/ health consultant Anieke Peace said that the exercise was part of the organization’s programmes that has been streamlined to promote health, education and empowerment-driven activities. She urged the participants to make good use of what they have learnt from the program.

While speaking with one of the top beneficiaries of Green World Company Mr. Matthew Dada, he said that the exercise was an intervention to save the lives of unemployed and underemployed Nigerians from poverty. He stressed that there was need for the participants to undergo the tests as they need to be healthy to be able to carry out their businesses and attend to their family needs..

Over two hundred people benefitted from the medicare and empowerment programme.

Joy Agbakwue.

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S COMMITMENT TO STEEL DEVELOPMENT: A DRIVING FORCE FOR NATIONAL ECONOMIC PROSPERITY, INDUSTRIALIZATION, AFFIRMS BELLO

By

Social Plus Africa

-

January 13, 2024

0

Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, CON, lauds President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pivotal role in revitalizing the nation’s steel industry, emphasizing its significance as a catalyst for economic growth and industrialization.

The governor made this known on Friday while receiving the minister of Steel Development, Prince Shaibu Abubakar Audu in Abuja who briefed the governor on the achievement of his ministry and the substantial commitment of Mr President to the Steel sector.

During a meeting with the Minister, the governor expressed his appreciation for President Tinubu’s commitment to reshaping the nation’s economy, highlighting the indispensable role of a robust steel industry in technological and industrial advancement.

The minister’s visit encompassed congratulations on the governor’s success in Kogi State, the APC’s victory in the November 11 governorship polls, and the appointments of transition chairpersons for local government areas in the state. Audu also commended the peaceful selection of the new Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, HRM Ahmedtijani Anajeh, praising Governor Bello for his wisdom, understanding, and considerations.

Revealing success stories from the Ministry of Steel Development, Minister Audu shared insights into a $10 billion investment prospect in Nigeria’s steel industry. He informed Governor Bello about President Tinubu’s approval to restart the Light Steel Mill (LSM) section of Ajaokuta Steel Complex, a project expected to create up to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs. Financial institutions have already expressed interest in supporting this initiative.

The minister highlighted ongoing discussions with Luan Steel Holding Group, a Chinese company, for a new steel plant in Nigeria, and the commencement of military hardware production in Ajaokuta Steel Plant. Additionally, Jindal Steel Group has shown interest in investing up to $5 billion in a new steel plant in Nigeria.

As Governor Bello’s term concludes, Minister Audu pledged unwavering support and commitment to both his administration and that of the governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo who is set to be inaugurated on January 27, 2024.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
January 12, 2024

FEDERAL CHARACTER COMMISSION, HEAD OFFICE, ABUJA. RE: BREAKING; FCC CHAIRMAN ARRESTED OVER CERTIFICATE FRAUD RE JOINDER CALCULATED BLACKMAIL TO FRUSTRATE TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP

By

Social Plus Africa

-

January 13, 2024

0

Since the assumption of office of the Executive Chairman of the Federal
Character Commission, Dr. Muheeba Dankaka, OON, NPOM in July 2, 2020, a group of five Commissioners have used different devices and cover to launch unwanted attacks on the transfomational method of leadership adopted by the Executive Chairman which promotes
transparency, fairness and equity.
Now, the group has continued with their mischievous attack, this time under “Garki Reporters Blog” to dish out to the general public another blackmail claiming that the Executive Chairman of Federal Character Commission was arrested over Certificate fraud and was seen at the Force CID Abuja in the company of the Secretary to the Commission,
Tukur Bello.
The general public is hereby informed that the information being disseminated by “Garki Reporters’ Blog” is not true, mischievous and
continued calculated blackmail by those five Federal Character Commissioners who have found it very difficult to join the Executive
Chairman in her determination to bring positive and lasting change to the Commission in the implementation of its mandates.

Dr. Chuks Okoli
Director, Public Affairs & Cómmunication

GISA Care and Empowerment Foundation Takes Christmas Outreach to Karu LGA, Nasarawa State.

By

Favour Bassey Otu

-

December 26, 2023

0

In a heartwarming gesture to mark the Christmas season, the GISA CARE AND EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION conducted an outreach in Karu local government, Nasarawa state.

The initiative aimed to distribute foodstuffs and cash gifts to widows and the less privileged in the community.

Amb. James Momoh, the founder of GISA CARE and EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION, pledged to continue such initiatives, promising to do more for other communities.

“The event is a testament to the organization’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those in need” – He said.

The beneficiaries, visibly touched by the generosity, conveyed their heartfelt gratitude for the thoughtful gifts and cash donations.

Mr. Ephraim Gbenda Sasetu, the Nasarawa state Coordinator of GISA CARE and EMPOWERMENT FOUNDATION, expressed his appreciation for the team’s efforts in initiating the outreach within their community.

The event not only provided essential resources but also served as a beacon of hope during the festive season.

Some of the highlights of the outreach included a health talk by a member of the team Bella Oparandu. She talked about the need to maintain good personal hygiene and eat healthily for a longer and happier life.

The foundation’s commitment to care and empowerment reflects a dedication to creating a lasting impact on the lives of the vulnerable and marginalized in society.

GOV’T AGENCIES UPHOLD THE NEW NAIDP, SET FOR ROBUST DELIVERY OF THE ACTION PLAN.

By

Social Plus Africa

-

December 21, 2023

0

The Nigerian Automotive Industry Development Plan (NAIDP) has continued to garner special attention as all relevant government authorities converged at the meeting on “Public Sector Engagement on the Implementation of the NAIDP 2023-2033” held at Nicon Luxury hotels on Tuesday 19th December 2023

Speaking at the event, the Director General, NADDC Mr Joseph Osanipin reiterated the commitment of the Council to ensure proper implementation of the NAIDP, stating that the New Auto Policy is a strategic road map to developing the auto industry.

“We are here to speak on what we are doing in the Council and engaging public stakeholders for proper implementation of the NAIDP. We cannot continue to implement without engaging with critical stakeholders”.

The Director General maintained that local automotive components development is key to achieving the goals of the New Auto Policy as it would contribute to localisation of the products in the industry.

He also frowned at the level of inflow of used cars otherwise referred to as “tokubo” cars.

“We cannot allow Nigeria to be a dumping ground for old used cars, we will work with relevant agencies to ensure that this is achievable”.

In his words “There are some vehicles that are not worthy to be on our roads, in collaboration with the relevant agencies, we have to specify the minimum standards of vehicles that will be allowed to enter the country”.

Presenting his goodwill message, the Chairman, Nigeria Automotive Manufacturers Association (NAMA), Mr Bawo Omagbitse applauded the pragmatic steps of the Director General, which, according to him would place the auto industry on the right track of rapid growth.

He pledged the support of members of NAMA to NADDC, adding that the organisation would continue to work with the Council to canvas for the successful implementation of the Policy document.

In his remarks the representative of the Comptroller General, Nigerian Custom Service, Assist. Comptroller Muazu Zanna also assured of the NCS support on the NAIDP implementation.

Other government authorities who participated and made positive contributions in support of the Policy were the CBN, FRSC, AfcFTA, Bank of Industry, Federal Ministry of Transport, DRTS (VIO) standards Organisation of Nigeria etc.

The event provided a platform for fruitful engagement where relevant agencies made comprehensive contributions all geared towards a holistic approach in developing the automotive sector of the economy.

GOV BELLO EULOGIZES GEN CHRIS ALI’S EXEMPLARY PATRIOTISM, UNRIVALED COMMITMENT TO NATIONAL DEFENSE

By

Social Plus Africa

-

December 20, 2023

0

Kogi State Governor, His Excellency Yahaya Bello, CON, pays glowing tribute to the late General Chris Ali, extolling his unparalleled patriotism and unwavering commitment while offering his final respects to the deceased general in Abuja on Wednesday.

Attending the burial ceremony at the military Cemetery in Abuja, Governor Yahaya Bello who was accompanied by the Kogi State governor-elect, Ahmed Usman Ododo extends heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, the Nigerian Army, friends, and colleagues of the former Chief of Army Staff, who peacefully passed away at the age of 78.

Governor Bello characterizes the late General Ali as an extraordinary Nigerian patriot who fearlessly risked his life in the defense of Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He acknowledges Ali as a quintessential Army General, whose impeccable passion for peace, development, and progress in Nigeria is truly unmatched. Governor Bello urged the family to take solace in the distinguished and exemplary life the late Army officer lived.

Born on December 1, 1944, in Koto-Karfe, Kogi State, Major-General Ali held esteemed positions, serving as a former Chief of Army Staff and military administrator of Plateau State. Ali’s distinguished career includes his role as the Director of Military Intelligence (DMI) before his well-deserved elevation to Chief of Army Staff, earning him respect as a dedicated officer.
The late Army General also demonstrated his leadership during a critical period, serving as an interim administrator of Plateau State in 2004.

Also present to pay their last respects to the late distinguished Army General were former military head of states, General Abdulsalam Abubakar, the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Former Minister of defense, General Abdulrahman Danbazau, and numerous other dignitaries from various spheres of life.

ONOGWU Muhammed
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
December 20, 2023

Turkish Govt Partners Humanitarian Ministry On Social Protection, Diaster Responses

By

Social Plus Africa

-

December 20, 2023

0

…..Set To Sign Agreement With Nigeria On Donor Development Cooperation for Poverty Eradication

The Turkish government has expressed its readiness to partner Nigeria’s Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in the areas of social protection and emergency responses.

Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, made this known during a courtesy call on the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu in her office in Abuja.

Describing Nigeria as a rising star in Africa, Bayraktar said it was important that his country and Nigeria collaborate on humanitarian crisis management, emergency response efforts, and poverty eradication infrastructures.

“As you know, we have a very good relationship with Nigeria, and especially we see Nigeria as the rising star in Africa.

“We want to have two agreements to be signed very early next year, one on the development Cooperation area and the other one is on the humanitarian disaster area, which will also involve the Turkish disaster management authority and NEMA of Nigeria. This will tremendously help, especially in the areas of floods or natural disasters. In the field of the development corporation, we will have the kind of sustainable development projects that we can help Nigeria in the areas of humanitarian and emergency response management as well, “the Ambassador said.

Responding, The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Edu expressed delight at Turkish government’s willingness to partner her ministry on social Protection, humanitarian and emergency response strategies saying both countries would benefit immensely from the synergy.

Her words: “we are grateful to the Turkish Ambassador and his team for this partnership, we have spoken very elaborately on the Turkish Development Cooperation, which would help partner with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to see how they can invest in social protection, support education, promote health and other social protection factors in the country.

“We would very early in January, after all the documentations have been completed, sign an agreement with the Turkish Government on Development Cooperation and of course disaster management
This will help us in setting up a proper humanitarian and disaster management system in Nigeria. All of these will be brought to fore from the agreements which we will sign”

Continuing, the Minister disclosed the Turkish government’s willingness “to open an office for the Turkish Development Cooperation in Nigeria after the agreements have been signed and from this office they can directly reach out, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Allevation, to the different states in the country.

“So we are very positive that very early next year in January, we can get all of these signed both in Turkey and back in Nigeria, and we can begin immediate implementation.

“This will help us to tackle humanitarian crises well as well as grapple with emergency responses and tackle poverty through the various development cooperation initiatives that we will be working on with the ministry” she added.

The Turkish Ambassador was in the company of imdat karakoram,the Deputy chief of mission,Republic of Turkey.

Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair (ANIPR), Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Minister, FMHAPA.
19/12/2023.

NDPC Issues Code of Conduct for Data Protection Compliance Organizations (DPCOs)*

By

Social Plus Africa

-

December 20, 2023

0

Ahead of its enforcement drive in 2024 and in a bid to ensure professionalism among firms that are licensed to carry out compliance as a service, the Nigeria Data Protection Commission has issued a Code of Conduct for DPCOs in Nigeria. Whilst addressing the meeting of the Commission with the DPCOs, the National Commissioner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, urged DPCOs to see their role in the implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023 as a public trust which must be guarded with utmost sense of responsibility. Dr. Olatunji noted the opportunities presented by the Act particularly the lawful use of data and job creation in data processing value chain.
It will be recalled that NDPA 2023 under section 33 vests the Commission with the power to license persons having a requisite level of expertise, in relation to data protection and the Act, to monitor, audit and report on compliance by data controllers and data processors. This is a unique Public Private Partnership model which is designed to promote trust and confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy which – like other economies around the world – thrives on data processing.
In line with the Code of Conduct, the compliance services that may be offered by DPCOs include but are not limited to the following:
a)Awareness and capacity building?
b)Registration of the data controller or a data processor with the Commission;
c)Development of compliance schedules;
d)Implementation of compliance schedules;
e)NDPA Compliance Audit and filing of Compliance Audit Returns with the Commission;
f)Data Privacy Impact Assessment; and
g)Facilitating and Vetting Data Privacy Agreement;

For a firm to operate as a DPCO and carry out compliance services, it must, among others, be duly licensed by the Commission and it must have a verifiably certified Data Protection Officer. As of November, 2023 163 DPCOs have been licensed by the Commission.

Whilst presenting the Code of Conduct to the DPCOs, the Commission’s Head of Legal, Enforcement and Regulations, Babatunde Bamigboye, Esq X-rayed the target objectives and the principles, particularly: Privacy Consciousness, Capacity Building, Accountability, Data Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility. All DPCOs will be held accountable in line with the provisions of the NDPA, the Code of Conduct and other regulatory instruments that be issued by the Commission going forward.

Signed
Itunu Dosekun
Head Media, NDPC