Former Anambra Senator, Annie Okonkwo, Dies At Age 63.

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June 7, 2023

The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has disclosed that the Airlift of Nigerian pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for the 2023 Hajj has entered its 12th day with about 30 thousand pilgrims safely transported into Madinah for the first phase of the operations.

According to a statement issued by the Assistant Director, of Public Affairs of NAHCON, Fatima Sanda Usara, “the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had mapped out a 25-day airlift plan to be concluded before the closure of Jeddah airport on 22nd of June, 2023.

Consequently, NAHCON’s airlift operations are ongoing according to plan.

NAHCON is committed to providing the best services for its pilgrims at all times. To make certain that pilgrims get standard ministrations, a team of staff was dispatched to Saudi Arabia in advance to ensure that accommodations and catering services arrangements are satisfactory before the arrival of the country’s pilgrims.

Before then, the Commission had screened and selected capable hands in catering services to feed Nigerian pilgrims while in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and secured sufficiently standard accommodations for them.

In addition to these selections, the Commission put in place such mechanisms for checks and balances that would ensure service providers render the services they were paid for dully without shortchanging the Nigerian pilgrims. Among these mechanisms are clearly stated terms and conditions of engagements, signing of agreements to that respect and advance payment for the services; followed by constant monitoring and supervision by NAHCON staff; plus a complaint portal and open door to receive such complaints where any oversight might have occurred.

The complaint line is open 24/7 in Hausa, Fulfulde, Yoruba, and Igbo on 097000780. Alternatively, one can visit NAHCON’s portal on nahcon.gov.ng and then scroll through the resources for the complaint management portal.

Hence, NAHCON enjoins any pilgrim with a complaint over poor services rendered (whether in poor catering services, transportation, sanitation, and other unsatisfactory service delivery); to lodge same through the aforementioned channels or contact NAHCON’s Madinah and Makkah coordinators with their grievances for such issues to be addressed immediately. NAHCON would not hesitate in taking necessary action where there is an obvious infraction on the welfare of its pilgrims. The Commission would ascertain such claims and stipulate the right penalties for the defaulters as agreed in the contract award terms.

Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan, NAHCON Chairman, commends Nigerian pilgrims for their resilience and cooperation during airlift schedules without which the operation would not have been smooth. He similarly commends the States Pilgrims Welfare Boards/Agencies/Commissions for their promptness in responding to departure arrangements which so far has been orderly with minimal delays. Alhaji Hassan likewise commends other stakeholders for playing their parts well for the smoothness recorded in the Hajj operations.

The Chairman assures that Nigerian intending pilgrims’ satisfaction is paramount to the Commission at all times. He called on them again to remain in a state of readiness for their turn to be airlifted to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

NAICOM, NITDA Forge Partnership To Enhance Digital Ecosystem In Nigeria.

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June 6, 2023

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), under the leadership of its Director General/CEO, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, embarked on a courtesy visit to the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) today.

The purpose of the visit was to discuss and initiate the process of institutionalizing cyber insurance, aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s digital ecosystem.

The NITDA delegation, comprising top officials and led by Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, was warmly received by the Commissioner for Insurance/Chief Executive Officer of NAICOM, Olorundare Sunday Thomas, along with his management team.

The meeting served as a platform for both agencies to deliberate on the significant advantages that cyber insurance can bring to the nation and to solidify their commitment to collaborate in order to achieve this objective.

In a statement signed by the Head of Corporate Communications and Market Development at NITDA, Rasaaq Salami, it was emphasized that the institutionalization of cyber insurance would play a pivotal role in enhancing the resilience of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

As the country continues to witness an exponential growth in digital transformation, safeguarding against cyber risks and ensuring the protection of critical data has become a paramount concern.

During the discussions, the NITDA and NAICOM teams explored the multifaceted benefits that cyber insurance can offer, including mitigating financial losses associated with cyberattacks, facilitating speedy recovery from security breaches, and fostering a culture of risk awareness and management in the digital space.

Both agencies acknowledged the pressing need to enhance cybersecurity measures and provide a comprehensive framework to address potential threats and vulnerabilities in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Furthermore, the collaborative efforts between NITDA and NAICOM aim to create an enabling environment for the development of the cyber insurance market in Nigeria. By establishing a robust regulatory framework, encouraging innovation, and fostering public-private partnerships, the agencies seek to stimulate the growth of cyber insurance offerings, thereby providing individuals, businesses, and organizations with the necessary tools to manage cyber risks effectively.

In concluding the visit, Director General Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi expressed his gratitude to Commissioner Olorundare Sunday Thomas and the NAICOM management team for their warm reception and eagerness to collaborate.

He reiterated NITDA’s commitment to leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to build a secure and resilient digital ecosystem that promotes economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

As the nation embraces the digital era, the institutionalization of cyber insurance will undoubtedly contribute to the overall resilience and confidence in Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, ensuring the protection of vital information and fostering a secure digital future for all.

Social Plus Africa Celebrates Pastor W.F. Kumuyi On His 82nd Birthday.

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June 6, 2023

The Chief Executive Officer of Social Plus Africa Communications Ltd, Amb. James Momoh JP has extended his heartfelt wishes to the General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor Dr. W.F Kumuyi.

In a statement by the Head, Corporate Affairs Unit of the organization, Hajia Maryam Abdullahi, he celebrated the remarkable life of the pastor as a true servant of God and a beacon of inspiration.

According to Amb. James, the pastor’s dedication, faith, and unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Christ have touched countless lives and continue to transform hearts around the world.

“As we reflect on the years that have passed, we are in awe of the impact you have made. Your vision and leadership have guided the Deeper Christian Life Ministry to become a powerful force for spiritual growth and revival”.

“Through your teachings, sermons, and books, you have inspired countless individuals to seek a deeper relationship with God, encouraging them to embrace His love, grace, and truth” – He said.

Amb. James admired his integrity, saying it served as a shining example to all who know him. “Your compassion and care for others have brought healing and hope to the brokenhearted and the downtrodden. You have tirelessly labored to bring the message of salvation to the lost, challenging us all to live lives that honor God in every aspect”.

Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi was born on the 6th of June, 1941, he is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, headquartered at Gbagada, Lagos, Nigeria, with districts all over the world. He is also the author of several Christian books and daily devotionals.

Pastor Dr. W.F. Kumuyi is also the convener of the Global Crusade with Kumuyi (GCK) which was launched on Sunday 31 July 2021.

The GCK is a monthly power-packed program, created by the ministry to further the gospel of Christ.

The GCK over the past year, has reached more than 150 countries with a monthly average physical audience of between 40,000 to 150,000 and a virtual audience of over 3,000,000 people globally.

In 1973, while being a lecturer of mathematics at the University of Lagos, Kumuyi began a Bible study group with 15 students who had come to him for Bible training.

This training became the foundation of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry. In 1975, Kumuyi was expelled from the Apostolic Faith Church for preaching on the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

He continued his independent ministry, which in 1982 became the Deeper Life Bible Church. As of 2005, the Christian ministry is said to have over 800,000 affiliates.

Shettima Pledges Nigeria’s Leadership In AfCFTA

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June 6, 2023

Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured other African countries that Nigeria would actively participate and provide leadership in the African Continental Free Trade Area.

The Vice President gave this assurance at a stakeholders’ engagement meeting held by the African Continental Free Trade Area on Monday.

Shettima disclosed that Nigeria’s participation would enable it to harness the vast opportunities available and enhance its position as a key player in the African market.

Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the National Action Committee on the AfCFTA, Olusegun Awolowo, underscored the crucial role of the agreement in stimulating intra-African trade, thereby driving economic growth, and uplifting the lives of millions of individuals across the continent.

Awolowo emphasized the necessity for comprehensive policies and frameworks that would effectively facilitate the unhindered flow of goods, services, and investments within Africa.

He described the country’s participation as an exploration of the potential to utilize technology and digital platforms for enhancing trade facilitation, reducing barriers, and fostering inclusivity among businesses of all sizes.

He said, “My belief is that Nigeria is on the right path to harnessing the transformative power of this continental agreement, and we will continue working closely with the Vice President and the new administration to drive Nigeria’s successful integration into the African market and contribute to the realization of the shared vision of a prosperous and united Africa.”

The World We Live In Today Is A World Of Technology: NCPC Boss.

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June 6, 2023

The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission NCPC, Rev. Dr. Yakubu Pam has said that the world we live in today is a world of technology.

This is according to a statement by the Senior Information Officer, NCPC Media/Public Relations Unit, Kande Ibrahim.

The NCPC Boss, while receiving the delegation of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau NDPB, led by the National Commissoner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji in his office at the NCPC corporate headquarters in Abuja recently, commended his zealousness in spreading the importance of data protection to different organizations and agencies.

Rev. Pam expressed great delight on receiving his guest, in his words, “the way you are going about the spread of Data Protection is highly commendable, the world we are living in today is a world of technology, the use of technology has become globally accepted and practiced in different organizations in their daily transactions and communications.”

Also speaking on the importance of Data Protection in NCPC, the number one Christian Pilgrim officer of the Federation said, “The challenges are overwhelming but NCPC is striving to ensure individual and group data of pilgrims are well protected, we have a lot of high profile pilgrims with great personalities and assets to protect, as such we don’t joke with the issue of data protection”.

NCPC Boss, while receiving the delegation of the Nigeria Data Protection Bureau NDPB, led by the National Commissoner, Dr. Vincent Olatunji in his office at the NCPC corporate headquarters in Abuja.

Consequently he added, “Your presence here today is of great importance and we will strive to ensure that our staff are well trained and equipped on the necessary data protection tools”.

Earlier, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner Nigeria Data Protection Bureau NDPB, said they were in the Commission to intimate the Executive Secretary on the roles of NDBP in data protection across the nation, according to him, “The Act establishing the NDPB seeks to empower individuals to take control of their personal data and to support organizations with their lawful processing of personal data”.

Furthermore he stated the objectives of the NDPB being implemented by the Bureau as, to safeguard the rights of natural persons to data privacy, the NDPB works to foster safe conduct for transactions, involving the exchange of Personal Data to prevent manipulation of Personal Data and also make provision for the rights of data subjects, the obligations of data controllers and data processors.

He stressed that, NDPB is more particular about the adequate need to safeguard governing structures and data collection as regards how information is gathered and shared.

He opined that, “data processing is now a common framework in Africa to guide and promote global competitiveness in terms of business.”

GOV BELLO CHARGES 2023 PILGRIMS TO BE GOOD AMBASSADORS OF KOGI.

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June 6, 2023

…urges them to pray for peace, progress of state and country…

Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, delivered a powerful message to the intending Muslim Pilgrims of 2023 who are embarking on the sacred journey to Saudi Arabia. Represented by Senator-elect Abubakar Ohere, the governor emphasized the importance of being exemplary ambassadors of Kogi State and ensuring that their actions during the pilgrimage bring honor to the confluence state.

Governor Bello acknowledged that the pilgrimage is not only a deeply personal and spiritual endeavor but also an opportunity to serve as representatives of Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole. He congratulated the fortunate individuals who will partake in this holy journey, recognizing it as a privilege bestowed upon them by the Almighty. The governor urged them to cherish this opportunity and approach it with utmost reverence and sincerity.

The governor reminded the pilgrims that they carry the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of the entire state with them. As representatives of Kogi State, he stressed the importance of conducting themselves in a manner befitting of this responsibility. He called upon them to uphold the values and teachings of Islam – compassion, honesty, and humility. These principles should guide their actions not only during the pilgrimage but also in their daily lives. By being good ambassadors of Kogi State, they have the opportunity to showcase the richness of their culture, the warmth of their people, and the unity that binds them together.

Furthermore, Governor Bello implored the pilgrims to use this sacred journey as an opportunity to fervently pray for the development, peace, and transformation of Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole. He reminded them that prayer is a powerful tool that can bring about positive change in their lives and communities. Their prayers have the potential to shape the future of their state and nation, and he encouraged them to devote their time in Mecca to seek divine intervention for their collective well-being.
Governor Bello also charged the pilgrims to pray for wisdom and guidance for leaders at all levels of governance and society in the discharge of their duties to the citizenry. He expressed his hope that this pilgrimage would be a transformative experience for each and every fortunate pilgrim, deepening their faith, strengthening their resolve, and inspiring them to be agents of positive change.

In bidding farewell to the pilgrims, Governor Bello wished them a spiritually enriching journey to the holy land. He expressed his prayer that this pilgrimage would not only deepen their faith but also empower them to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

A total of 726 pilgrims from Kogi State have embarked on this year’s Hajj, and their presence is a testament to their commitment and devotion. May their journey be blessed, and may their prayers bring peace, progress, and unity to Kogi State and Nigeria as a whole.

Kogi Traditional Council of Chiefs Condemns Attack On Gov Bello’s Convoy, Extends Sympathy.

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June 5, 2023

The Kogi State Traditional Council of chiefs, led by His Royal Majesty, Alaji Mathew Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa, Atta Igala, paid a visit to Governor Yahaya Bello at the Government House in Lokoja on Monday.

Atta Igala expressed the purpose of their visit, which was to offer their sympathies to the Governor regarding the attack on his convoy by a political group on his way from Abuja to Lokoja on Saturday.
The Atta Igala strongly condemned the attack, labeling it as a criminal act that must not be repeated in Kogi State going forward.

Taking advantage of the occasion, His Royal Majesty, Alaji Mathew Opaluwa Ogwuche-Akpa, also cautioned politicians and their followers to ensure that their campaigns are conducted without resorting to violence or intimidation.

In his prayers for the continuous well-being of Governor Yahaya Bello and the progress of Kogi State, His Royal Majesty, the Ohimege-Igu of Koto Karfe, Abdulrazaq Isah Koto, emphasized that the state, which has enjoyed significant peace and tranquility under the leadership of Governor Yahaya Bello, will continue to remain peaceful. He urged politicians to adhere to the established rules.

Governor Bello, in his remarks expressed his surprise at the conduct of those who attacked his convoy on Saturday.

The governor explained that on his way to Abuja on May 25th, his convoy encountered a roadblock allegedly set up by protesting truck drivers who claimed to have issues with the task force.

The governor stated that after waiting for hours, enduring untold hardship alongside other commuters who were unaware of the situation, he joined the security personnel in clearing the road.

The perpetrators, who had subjected other road users to such harsh conditions, were subsequently arrested and charged by the security forces.

The governor emphasized that such actions were meant to serve as a deterrent to others who may attempt to take the law into their own hands.

He mentioned that he was originally scheduled to participate in the unveiling of the APC deputy gubernatorial candidate on Friday.

However, due to a meeting of the Progressive Governors Forum with the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu he requested the party to reschedule the program for Saturday.

Bello recounted that, as a result of a hectic week, he was taking a naps in his car while on his way to Lokoja.

When he noticed that the convoy was not moving, he inquired about the reason and was informed by his security details that it was Muri’s convoy causing the delay.

Despite frantic efforts by his security details to find a way through, he had no choice but to follow behind Murtala’s convoy from Koto Karfe to Lokoja, covering a distance of approximately 30 kilometers to the point his convoy was attacked.

The governor described the attackers’ actions as criminal, emphasizing that such lawlessness would never be tolerated in the state.

He called upon the security forces, including the traditional rulers, to play their part in ensuring the continuity of peace in the state ahead of the election. He stressed the need for collective efforts to combat criminality and firmly stated that there is no room for division in Kogi State.

Governor Bello commended the traditional rulers for their proactive and fatherly guidance, expressing his appreciation for their visit and sympathy.

He also highlighted the historical connection between the Igala and Ebira people, emphasizing that politicians campaigning along ethnic and religious lines were causing problems in the state.

The governor assured the traditional leaders of his unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order in the state.
The royal fathers, accompanied by the President of Kogi State Council of Chiefs, the Atta Igala, HRM Alaji

Sweden Declares Sex As Sport, To Host First European Championship.

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June 5, 2023

Sweden has officially declared sex as a sport and is also set to host its first-ever sex competition.

The participants will engage in sex sessions which can go up to six hours daily.

A panel of judges will decide the winners of the sex competition while the audience will also influence the final decisions.

Tagged European Sex Championship, the competition will start this week, June 8, and run through a period of six weeks with participants engaging in sexual activities from 45 minutes to 1 hour daily, depending upon the duration of their matches.

The report claims that the audience will also influence the decision of the sex competitions and will notice several aspects of the sexual activity.

The final decision on the winners will be arrived at after considering the factors like the chemistry between the couple, knowledge about sex s well as endurance level.

Legislative Elections Are Underway In Guinea-Bissau.

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June 5, 2023