Home Blog Page 241

OGUN POLICE COMMAND URGES RESIDENTS TO EMBRACE COMPLAINT RESPONSE, TECHNICAL INTELLIGENCE UNITS

By
blacktalker
-
0

Members of the public, especially residents of Ogun State have been implored to use the newly launched Complaint Response Unit and Technical Intelligence Unit to communicate and channel their genuine concerns and complaints concerning the unprofessional conduct of serving police officers.

Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Police Command, Omolola Odutola made the call saying matters of fundamental human rights, rule of law, and equality of all citizens with a core mandate, at prioritizing all persons who reside in Ogun State are now being handled by the new platforms

Odutola explained that Police officers tasked with these responsibilities have been trained to swiftly intercept calls, while complainants have an option to make their reports in the Yoruba language, in cognizance of the queue while narrating their complaints.

She assured residents that all infractions and unprofessional misconducts would be investigated and appropriate measures would be taken to sanction erring policemen as personnel are on duty round the clock

Odutola added that residents and complainants can call 0813-9844-749, 0708-4972-994, or contact the Complaint Response Unit on X via Embrace Peace Pro.

CAPPA EXPRESSES DISAPPOINTMENT OVER LAGOS WATER CORPORATION’S PROPAGANDA AGAINST SACKED WORKERS

By
blacktalker
-
0

Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has expressed shock and disappointment over what it described as the Lagos Water Corporation, LWC management’s mischievous propaganda regarding the payment of entitlements to three hundred and ninety-one workers recently served letters of disengagement by the Corporation. 

CAPPA’s criticism comes in response to a recent statement in which the Managing Director of the LWC, Engr. Mukhtar Temitope Tijani claimed that the Corporation had, in a “remarkable display of empathy,” ensured that the illegally disengaged staff received their entitlements in line with public service rules.

According to the nonprofit organisation, the LWC’s attempt to whitewash its assault against helpless workers and still describe it as magnanimous is not only a ridiculous attempt to distort the truth but also a cruel mockery of the plight of affected workers, who have been callously deprived of their basic rights and livelihoods amid the current economic depression in the country.

The CAPPA statement signed by its Media & Communications Officer,  Robert Egbe further reads: “For the sake of members of the public interested in the details of this issue and concerned Lagosians who have a right to be made aware of the influences determining their access to publicly provided safe water, it is important that we clarify as follows:

“As far as we know from our participation in a series of meetings with the affected workers and their representatives, the Lagos Water Corporation’s decision to disengage 391 permanent staff on April 15, 2024, based on redundancy, despite the state’s extensive water infrastructure projects and understaffed situation, not only violated due process but is also being actively challenged by the affected workers and members of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Lagos State Council; the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC); and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE).

“Section 20 of the Nigerian Labour Act 2004 clearly outlines the process for handling redundancy. It mandates an employer to inform the trade union or workers’ representative concerned of the reasons for and the extent of the anticipated redundancy, including adhering to the principle of “last in, first out.” 

“Likewise, Section 7.23 of the Lagos State Water Corporation (condition of service) Rules 2011 clearly states that “all staff who disengage prematurely from service due to management decision shall be entitled to three (3) weeks of their terminal total emolument for each year of service as redundancy benefit”. The LWC blatantly disregarded these legal provisions, leaving affected workers and their unions with no choice but to resist its illegal actions and shameful undermining of national laws.

“While the Lagos Water Corporation (LWC) may claim to have disbursed a five-month redundancy payment to unjustly dismissed workers, we assert that this was merely a performative action mischievously approved on the eve of workers’ decision to embark on a protest on May 8. Despite this effort to undermine workers’ unity, the protest embarked on by the unions, alongside civil society groups, including CAPPA, held regardless, terminating with the submission of a petition to the Lagos State House of Assembly challenging the illegality of the mass sack. 

“It is important to state here that pleas by the leadership of the affected unions to the Lagos State Government to halt the illegal disengagement and reinstate all affected workers have fallen on deaf ears, with the government and LWC management insisting on their unfair treatment of workers, many of whom have dedicated 20 – 25 years of selfless service to the corporation. 

“CAPPA stands in solidarity with all affected unions and workers, three of whom have tragically lost their lives as a direct result of this injustice.”

 The group continued: “Instead of towing the egregious path of public disinformation, we challenge the Lagos state government to rise above such petty tactics and engage in sincere conversations and negotiations with affected workers and their unions regarding the true state of affairs at the Lagos Water Corporation.

“The management of the Lagos Water Corporation, both past and present, must look in the mirror and acknowledge their role in the sector’s dismal performance. 

“We emphatically reject attempts to shift the blame on workers by labelling them redundant where the corporation and state government have, instead of allowing workers to perform their jobs, historically outsourced water contracts to corrupt private entities that ended up mismanaging substantial state funds meant for infrastructure development”. 

CAPPA also observed that it is important for the Lagos Water Corporation to streamline performance for efficiency, urging the state government to consider an important and honest first step towards this goal: to investigate previously mismanaged contracts awarded for the optimal performance of the sector and address its shortcomings in overseeing works contracted out to underperforming private actors and entities.

“CAPPA is also not unaware that the unjust dismissal of workers is only one plot in the grand scheme to transfer the state’s public water supply to the hands of private actors. More troubling is the emerging information that the state’s water supply is on the brink of privatisation, allegedly underlined by Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) with investors and private sector partners poised to take over the state’s water infrastructure.  

”CAPPA rejects these secret dealings regarding the management of public water supply and infrastructure in Lagos state. Public infrastructure projects should reflect transparency, especially since they are funded with taxpayers’ monies.  Entering NDAs in matters concerning public welfare undermines the principles of democratic governance and prevents knowledgeable debate and informed decision-making by the very individuals who will be most impacted by these changes—the residents of Lagos State. 

”Moreover, numerous case studies from around the world have repeatedly shown that privatising public water often leads to increased consumer costs, compromised water quality, and a deterioration in service standards. Without public oversight, these non-disclosure deals could prioritise profit over the well-being of the citizenry, leading to scenarios where the most vulnerable communities suffer from reduced access to this essential amenity.

”Therefore, CAPPA urges the Lagos State government to retrace its steps towards privatising public water supply. We demand transparency and accountability in the management of the state’s public water infrastructure and call on policymakers to embrace an environment where public welfare is not sacrificed for profit. The Lagos State Government can start by disclosing the contents of the Non-Disclosure deals currently being negotiated around the state’s water infrastructure.

”As we continue to monitor developments surrounding the unjust dismissal of workers at the Lagos Water Corporation, we urge the affected workers, their unions, and members of the public to stand firm in asserting their rights to be treated with basic decency and resist the schemes of those attempting to commodify access to public water in Lagos State,” CAPPA added.

LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT CALLS FOR DUE DILIGENCE ON REAL ESTATE BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS

By
blacktalker
-
0

Lagos State Government has advised potential real estate investors to always check the registration portal of the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, LASRERA via its website: lasrera.lagosstate.gov.ng for the list of registered individuals/organisations before committing to any real estate business transactions in the state.   

Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Housing, Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare gave this advice on Thursday at the 2024 Ministerial Press Briefing held at Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.

Responding to the growing concerns raised over unregistered real estate practitioners and the proliferation of imposters, Barr. Odunuga-Bakare emphasised the importance of due diligence, especially in areas where new estates and construction works are ongoing.

She highlighted the efforts of the Lagos State Government through LASRERA to safeguard both local and international investors from falling victim to fraudulent schemes.

She said the strategies put in place by the state government to regulate activities within the real estate sector will serve as a deterrent to fraudulent practices within the real estate sector and enable swift intervention and sanctions against erring practitioners.

Odunuga-Bakare also underscored the effectiveness of LASRERA’s regulatory measures, noting that the agency’s database currently boasts 925 registered individuals and organisations, with an additional 2550 practitioners in the process of enrollment.

“LASRERA has a database of 925 registered individuals/organisations on its registration portal while over 2550 practitioners have enrolled to be registered”. Odunuga-Bakare stated.

European Union Youth Advisory Board Trains Student-Journalists on Press Freedom

By
blacktalker
-
0

The youth advisory body of the European Union in Nigeria, EU Sounding Board Nigeria has trained no fewer than thirty budding journalists from tertiary institutions across the six geopolitical zones of the country as part of events to mark the World Press Freedom Day 2024.

Spokesperson of the Board, Rafiat Atanda, while speaking on this year’s theme: “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the Environmental Crisis”, stated that the climate crisis being experienced globally required an urgent and multi-faceted approach to protect the people and the planet.

“Journalists play a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions and by empowering them early enough, we can recreate a world where journalists tell the truth and not the noise – while shifting from sensationalizing the climate crisis to reporting with facts, compassion and science, and in a way that supports freedom for all,” she said.

The workshop, which was facilitated by experienced journalists, including Deputy Investigations Editor at HumAngle, Ibrahim Adeyemi, and Business and Environment Reporter at Premium Times, Abdulkareem Mojeed, trained student journalists on ticking essential boxes for good investigative reporting and ethical practices in climate reporting.

Declaring the training open, the Head of Democracy, Governance and Human Rights at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ruben Alba-Aguilera,  described free and independent media as critical for upholding democracy and people’s right to access quality, fact-based information. 

Observing that as many as 85 percent of people live in countries where media freedom has worsened in the past five years, he said freedom of expression remained the worst affected indicator of deteriorating democracy in 35 countries in 2023 while improving in only eleven.

“Journalism is becoming an increasingly dangerous profession. In 2023, 99 journalists and media workers were killed worldwide in 2023 – the highest death toll since 2015. Also, as many as 320 journalists around the world are estimated to be in prison for their work,” said Alba-Aguilera.

He explained that the EU funds a variety of projects worldwide to support independent media, counter disinformation, and create a more enabling environment for media freedom and pluralism. In Nigeria, according to him, the EU provides funding for “Avocats San Frontieres (Lawyers Without Borders) to implement the e-RIGHTS project aimed at “protecting the Digital Rights of Nigerians and support activists who are targeted as a result of digital publications.”

Commending the EU Youth Sounding Board in Nigeria for the initiative, some of the participants, including Adam Mosadioluwa (University of Ilorin), Imran Ridwan (University of Maiduguri), Derby Divine Ephraim (University of Uyo) and Hussein Wahab (Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto), lauded both facilitators and the organisers for the workshop, describing it as “timely and impactful”.

DRMI: LASU COLLABORATES WITH NOTAP TO ENHANCE STAFF KNOWLEDGE OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

By
blacktalker
-
0

….INAUGURATES INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS AND TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OFFICE.

The Directorate of Research Management and Innovation, DRMI, Lagos State University, LASU has successfully collaborated with the National Office for Technology Acquisition And Promotion, NOTAP to conduct a two-day maiden training workshop on Intellectual Property Rights.

It also inaugurated the Intellectual Property Rights and Technology Transfer Office, IPRTTO. 

The training took place on Monday, 13th, and Tuesday, 14th May 2024 at the Senate Chamber, 1st floor, Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate building, LASU Main Campus, Ojo.

During the workshop, the Acting Director-General of NOTAP, Dr. Idoreyin Imiyoho, represented by the Director, Technology Acquisition & Research Coordinator, Mrs. Caroline M. Anie-Osuagwu provided an overview of intellectual property and NOTAP’s role in promoting intellectual property in Nigeria. 

Dr. Imiyoho noted that the workshop aimed to equip academic staff members with valuable insights and knowledge on technology transfer, commercialization, and the importance of intellectual property rights. 

”This training workshop marks a significant step in the journey of LASU towards promoting intellectual property rights and technology transfer. By equipping staff members with the necessary knowledge and skills, LASU aims to foster a culture of innovation and research that can lead to real-world applications and societal impact.”

In a significant milestone, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, who officially inaugurated the LASU Intellectual Property Rights and Technology Transfer Office, IPRTTO, emphasized that the workshop would bridge the gap between the university and the industry, paving the way for innovative ideas to make a difference in society. 

The Vice-Chancellor urged all participants to share the knowledge gained with other staff members, implementing a “Train the Trainers” approach to ensure widespread understanding and utilization of intellectual property rights.

The professor of physiology acknowledged the efforts of the DRMI team members, particularly the Director, Prof. Adejuwon Adeneye in establishing the IPRTTO.

”The establishment of this office, in collaboration with NOTAP and the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, will enable LASU to develop a robust intellectual property portfolio, including patenting, copyright, and technology licensing.”

On Day Two of the workshop, participants engaged in the lectures on “Drafting of Patent Specifications” delivered by Deputy Director, TARC, Engr. E. I. Moghalu, and “Patent Databases and Search Techniques” delivered by the Technology Officer, TARC, Mr. Kenny Ayoade Shalom. 

The sessions were followed by a question and answer session, providing participants with opportunities to clarify their understanding of intellectual property rights.

The training workshop was brought to a close by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olufunsho Omobitan, who expressed appreciation to all the resource persons present, encouraged the participants to apply the knowledge gained effectively. Certificates were presented to all participants.

The Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel A. FANU, represented by the Deputy Registrar, ASE, Mr. Samuel Otesanya delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all stakeholders for their support and contributions to the success of the workshop.

Amo Farm Commemorates International Day of Families, Nourishes with Agro-Innovation Noiler

By
blacktalker
-
0

Amo Farm Sieberer Hatchery Limited has commemorated its consumers on this year’s International Day of Families with a commitment to their well-being, providing nutritional protein that curbs stunting in children, malnutrition, and improved well-being.

The company has made a remarkable impact on the agricultural growth of the country, supporting women empowerment initiatives nationwide, stating that its consumers are part of its topmost priority, and its projects are tailored towards their development.

Its Group Managing Director, Dr. Ayoola Oduntan, avowed that the theme of the 2024 International Families Day, “Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families,” reinforces the need for greater care within the family as basic units of society, and an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families as well as appropriate action.

The Amo Farm boss pointed out that the company supports families across the country in maintaining their health with its nutritious poultry products, including its agro-innovation, the Noiler Bird, a good source of protein required for the human body.

Noiler is a dual-purpose bird that stems from several years of research and development. It is similar in looks and taste to the native chicken, but is resistant to diseases, and produces four times more eggs and three times more meat.

Its innovation and Amo Farm’s poverty reduction scheme have been extensively documented and reviewed in the prestigious Harvard Business Review publication, and through it, the company has empowered over 1.3 million rural households in the country, with emphasis on women, to boost their income as well as food security.

Recently, Amo Farm supported the launch of the South-west Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Women Agricultural Support Programme and Flag-off of the 2024 Ogun State Planting Season with 1,000 Noiler Birds, 100 Bags of 12.5 kg Amo Byng Grower Pellet and 100 packs of Divertamin, a combination of essential nutrients for the Noiler Birds, for 100 women each, as start-up packs for small agribusiness.

Rite Foods Limited Celebrates Families on International Day of Families

By
blacktalker
-
0

Rite Foods Limited, a leading Nigerian food and beverage company, has joined the global recognition of families as the foundation of society on this year’s International Day of Families, celebrated annually on May 15th.

The theme of the 2024 International Day of Families “Embracing Diversity, Strengthening Families,” honors the significance of strong family bonds in nurturing love, understanding, and stability, and Rite Foods acknowledges the various forms families take as well as their crucial role in providing care and support to individuals.

The company’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, said this aligns perfectly with the company’s long-held belief that families are the backbone of a healthy community, and given that: “International Day of Families is a reminder of the strength and love families bring to our lives. It’s also a reminder that family isn’t always about blood ties. Celebrating togetherness and acknowledging our unique differences is what truly matters.”

Beyond providing high-quality products that cater to different age groups, lifestyles, and tastes, the company’s sponsorship of family-oriented initiatives like “Big Family Dream,” a Nigerian reality TV game show where families can show their financial literacy knowledge and other fun games to win prizes that may include better housing conditions, home appliances, a weekend getaway, and a family dinner, is a proof of that belief.

Rite Foods Ltd encourages people to remember that families come in all shapes and sizes, yet they share a common thread – the power of love and support and treat everyone with kindness.

The company’s focus on consumers has been demonstrated through their support for different causes that have earned it different awards which include “Most Innovative Carbonated Soft Drink Brand of the Year” for the Bigi brand, the “Most Outstanding Energy Drink in Consumer Engagement” for its number-one energy drink, the Fearless brand; “Best Value for Money – Carbonated Drink Brand 2023” for Bigi Cola; “Best Value for Money – Energy Drinks Brand 2023” for Fearless Energy Drink; and “Best Value for Money – Sausage Brand 2023” for Bigi Beef Sausage Roll. Also, the premium Sosa Fruit Drink won the “Outstanding New Product of the Year – Juice” in 2023, among others.

PROFESSOR BAKARE CALLS FOR COMPREHENSIVE REFORMS TO COMBAT NATIONAL CHALLENGES

By
blacktalker
-
0

…Presents Recommendations for Sustainable Progress at LASU 94th Inaugural Lecture.

In a compelling address to a distinguished audience, Professor Ibrahim Adeolu Bakare of the Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, Lagos State University, LASU delivered a stark warning about the urgent need for transformative action to address the multifaceted challenges facing the nation. 

Professor Bakare made the call when he delivered the 96th Inaugural Lecture of the Lagos State University, LASU with the topic: “Forlorn Hope In An Uncertain Economy: Navigating The Cap That Optimally Fits Nigeria’s Development Trajectory” on Tuesday, 14th May 2024 at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Main Campus, Ojo, Lagos.

Drawing upon global examples of exemplary leadership and successful economic models, Prof. Bakare outlined a series of comprehensive recommendations aimed at steering Nigeria towards a path of sustainable development.

Key among the recommendations is a call for profound leadership reform, emphasizing the importance of integrity, accountability, and service to the people. Drawing parallels with global icons such as Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela, he underscored the necessity for constitutional changes to ensure governance structures are aligned with the interests of the populace.

Addressing economic concerns, the renowned scholar advocated for a more favorable environment for private investment, stressing the role of the government in fostering business growth and stability. Additionally, proposals were made to overhaul the security architecture, tackle poverty and inequality through targeted programs, and streamline the bloated cost of governance.

The Economic expert also highlighted the imperative of institutional reform, emphasizing the need for independence and transparency in key sectors such as law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies, while emphasising leveraging technology to combat corruption and promote accountability as a critical strategy.

In terms of economic diversification,  Prof. Bakare urged a shift away from reliance on oil towards sectors such as solid minerals and agriculture, emphasizing the need for investment and transparency in resource management. Additionally, revitalizing abandoned projects and prudent debt management were identified as essential steps toward economic stability.

The recommendations put forth by the Prof. underscore the gravity of Nigeria’s current challenges and the imperative for decisive action, adding that with collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society, there is hope for a brighter future marked by sustainable progress and prosperity for all Nigerians.

Lagos State University Calls for Partnerships to Co-Host FASU Games

By
blacktalker
-
0

In a bid to bolster the success of the upcoming Federation of African University Sports, FASU, games, the Lagos State University, LASU has extended an invitation to well-meaning Nigerians to join hands in co-hosting the prestigious event. 

Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyeemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello mni, NPOM,  made the call at a Press Conference for the Federation of African University Sports, FASU, games held on Tuesday 14th May 2024 at the Senate Chamber, Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate Building, Main Campus, Ojo.

Emphasizing the importance of partnership and support, Prof. Olatunji-Bello mni, NPOM underscored the significance of the event in showcasing the spirit of unity and collaboration that defines Nigeria. 

”With the tournament poised to promote harmony and cohesion in the multiethnic nation, LASU aims to leverage the immense leisure, career, and business opportunities inherent in such sporting events.”

She hinted at the forthcoming visit of the Nigerian University Games Association, NUGA’s Organizing Committee on the 12th and 13th of June, 2024, for facilities inspection and interaction. This visit highlights LASU’s commitment to ensuring top-notch facilities for sporting events and fostering a conducive environment for athletic excellence.

Expressing gratitude to FASU for their collaboration and acknowledging the unwavering support of His Excellency, Governor Bababjide Sanwo-Olu,  Prof. Olatunji-Bello mni, NPOM reiterated LASU’s dedication to seeking continued support in hosting the tournament. 

According to her, the call for partnerships and support signals LASU’s commitment to promoting sports development and unity within the state and across Africa. With the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, the FASU game promises to be a resounding success, fostering camaraderie and excellence in university sports.

PRESIDENT TINUBU DIRECTS MANDATORY PROCUREMENT OF CNG-POWERED VEHICLES BY MDAs

By
blacktalker
-
0

In line with his commitment to ensure energy security, drive utility, and cut the high cost of fuel, President Bola Tinubu has directed the mandatory procurement of compressed-natural-gas-powered vehicles by all government ministries, departments, and agencies.

The President’s directive is also in furtherance of Nigeria’s effort to transition to cleaner energy as CNG-enabled vehicles have been adjudged to produce lower emissions, even as they present a more affordable alternative for Nigerian energy consumers.

Addressing members of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, at the State House on Monday, President Tinubu affirmed that there is no turning back in the energy reforms initiated by his administration.

“This nation will not progress forward if we continue to dance on the same spot. We have the will to drive the implementation of CNG adoption across the country, and we must set the example as public officials in leading the way to that prosperous future that we are working to achieve for our people. It starts with us, and in seeing that we are serious, Nigerians will follow our lead,” the President stated.

The President also directed the rejection of all memos brought by members of FEC seeking the purchase of traditional petrol-dependent vehicles, tasking the affected members of the council to go back and diligently seek value-driven procurements of CNG-compliant vehicles.

President reiterated his commitment to effectively harnessing the nation’s gas potential, alleviating the burden of high transportation costs on the masses while enhancing the standard of living of all Nigerians.

1...240241242...270Page 241 of 270