Nigerian Commentaries

How to become a Professional Event Manager

2016-07-30T00:02:00.000-07:00

Webinar Invitation: How to become a Professional Event Manager.

You are invited to attend this webinar titled "How to become a Professional Event Manager".

The Event Management industry is worth over $60 Billion worldwide with an ever increasing growth rate per year according to IEG Reports.

With over 150+ trained professionals by Ritetrac Consulting in the past 7 years in this fast growing event management industry,we will like to introduce what it takes to become a Professional Event Manager/Planner.

What you will learn
1. Introduction to Event Management
2. Skills of an Event Manager and why do people hire them?
3. How to setup your business in the next 30 -90 days
4. Marketing your Event Planning Business
5.Case studies of Successful Event Planners
There will be a Live Question/Answer Session.

This is Webinar is meant for
* Event Management Service Providers
* Event planners
* Entrepreneurs
* Wedding Planners
* Sports Event Planners
* Meeting Planners
* Anybody with a keen interest

To register visit [Register here](http://goo.gl/ydcgXT)

The agenda for this event:
1. Introduction to Event Management
2. Skills of an Event Manager and why do people hire them?
3. How to setup your business in the next 30 -90 days
4. Marketing your Event Planning Business
5. Case studies of Successful Event Planners

Lets take you along in this industry
Date: Monday 1st August,2016
Time: 12.00pm-1.30pm

**Steps to participate:**
1. Register for this event by following link
2. Login 10 minutes before time on August 1st,2016 at 12pm-1.30pm

Register here [Register here](http://goo.gl/ydcgXT)
Join us today!

Invitation to 1st Lean Six Sigma/Process Improvement Conference

2015-10-19T08:42:00.001-07:00

Dear Professional Colleague,

Have you ever wanted to meet up with thousands of other Process Improvement, Change Managers, Project Management Leaders, Quality Management leaders, Lean & Six Sigma Professionals from around Nigeria and the world?

LEAN SIX SIGMA / PROCESS IMPROVEMENT CONFERENCE delivers just that, inspiring and educating thousands each year. Not only will you learn the latest lean six sigma tactics, but you will also create the connections/network needed to transform your organization for the ever evolving competitive business world.

Join us from December 1st -2nd in Abuja, Nigeria for our largest LEAN SIX SIGMA event yet!!!
Sign up now and receive an early bird discount. Use code EARLYBIRD15. Offer expires(November 15th,2015). Visit http://bit.ly/1OVAtTD to learn more and to register.

Know a professional colleague who would benefit from LEAN SIX SIGMA CONFERENCE? Share with them and receive an additional 10% off!!!

Follow us on Social Media
Twitter: @Ritetracconsult with Hashtag #LSSPINC
Email Us: info@ritetracconsult.com.ng

Best Regards,
Patrick Ajunwa
+2348038769323

For Program Committee
Lean Six Sigma& Process Improvement Conference

Earn residual income with Ritetrac Consulting Nigeria Ltd

2014-10-07T00:35:00.002-07:00

Earn Residual income with Ritetrac Consulting and get paid over and over.
Also hiring Digital Marketers with 2years experience!
Be financially ready for the holiday season Early!
Help us while helping yourself!
We are implementing our new affiliate program - you make referrals to companies and individuals needing different levels of
Project Management Consulting Services,training and certification preparation.

We offer lucrative bonuses - cash payouts.
Let's talk this week. Call for private chat.

Ojiugo Ajunwa MBA,PMP
Ritetrac Consulting Nigeria Ltd.
www.ritetracconsult.com.ng
Skype: ojiugo.ajunwa
Email: oajunwa@ritetracconsult.com.ng

Lets chat this week!

Digital Marketing Training Workshop in Abuja,Nigeria.

2014-10-06T03:18:00.000-07:00






Course Details: Digital Marketing Training Workshop



Meet,Greet,Learn and Earn more income in your business while 
attending our 1st Digital Marketing Training Workshop in Abuja,Nigeria.



Course Description:


Traditional "outbound" marketing tactics that dominated the pre-digital/ internet world are now alarmingly ineffective. 


We all have the power to filter out advertising and we're not afraid to use it.


The customer is in control. The communications process begins if and 
when the customer wants. Without advertising. Without phone calls. 
Without you.


Instead of pushing out messages via paid media, to reach this customer, you 


must put the power of content marketing, search, and social media to work. 


The relationship with your brand begins there.



To make your business effective, you have to understand and embrace "Digital Marketing". 


The strategy is to pull people to your busniess, 2-4-7, 7days a week with our magnetic strategy which this course is all about!



Course Learning Objectives/Benefits:




1. Basic Steps to creating a Business Website using Wordpress Application- Kickstart your online prescence
2.
 Introduction to SEO(Search Engine Optimization) DIY -Hands-on Sessions 
-Create a sustainable strategy for generating leads and business online
3.
 Email Marketing Tips: Best Platforms to use,Creating your list and Best
 Practices/Email Etiquette - Communicate easily with your database using
 segmentations and call to action.
4. Social Media Accounts: How to 
optimize your profile and benefits of Key platforms 
-Facebook,Twitter,LinkedIN,Instagram,Pinterest and Google+ - Social 
selling strategies 
5. Low cost and high impact Content Marketing Strategies-Hands-on Sessions - Save on the cost of generating leads.
6.
 Driving targeted traffic using content marketing and steps to nuturing 
your leads- Save on the cost of nuturing leads and turn them to paying 
clients in a short lifecycle
7. Measuring your Marketing Efforts using Google Analytics.
Course Requirements: 


Attendees come pre-registered and with their own devices with data bundle preloaded.


The Workshop will be highly interactive and hands-on delivering to you 
comprehensive practical sessions so you can appreciate the


impact of the strategies that will be taught.


You are, therefore, required to bring along with you, your internet-ready device and Modem.


The steps and strategies that will be taught has successfully driven a 
number of businesses to success and profitability through the 
application of the Digital


Marketing Strategies.



Date: 1st November 2014


Time: 9am-5pm


Venue: Banana Republic, No 37 Julius Nyerere Crescent,behind World Bank,Asokoro District Abuja



Who Should Attend?


Startup Owners


Business Owners


Business Development Managers


Sales and Marketing Executives


Customer Care Personnel


Current Youth Corpers


Recent graduates, etc



Course Tuition Covers:




1. Certificate of Participation
2. Access to a 
Dropbox Folder of Relevant Materials such as Marketing Plan 
Templates,Case studies and eBooks etc to aid your Digital Marketing 
Efforts
3. Access to a Facebook and Linkedin Networking Group where you can get a helping hand, network and get your questions answered.
4. High Impact Facilitated Networking Sessions
5. Tea Break/Lunch
Payment Details:



Cost: 20,000Naira per participant


Banker: Guaranty Trust Bank Plc


Account Name: Ritetrac Consulting Nigeria Ltd.


Account No: 0023331797


Early Birds who pay 2-3 weeks ahead of class enjoy a 10% discount.Registration ends Friday October 24th 2014. 


*Note: Negiotiated Group discounts are available for groups of 3 participants and above.



Contact us today - Email address:info@ritetracconsult.com.ng Phone No:+2348037090474;+2348038769323.

2nd Induction of the Employee Benefits Institute,Nigeria

2012-11-10T10:01:00.001-08:00

Employee Benefits Institute Nigeria(EBIN)

Does your day to day to day job involve Human Resource Management,Life/Health Insurance,Workmen Compensation/Personnel Accident Insurance,Benefits for workplace injury,Pension&Retirement administration,Asset Management etc?

Do you know that you can qualify for Direct Membership as an Associate or Fellow of the Employee Benefits Institute,Nigeria(EBIN) depending on your years of experience?

Avail yourself this golden opportunity and enroll for the 2nd Induction of the Institute coming up on the 7th of December,2012

Download your forms online at our website www.ebin.org.ng today!

Our 2nd Direct Membership Induction Ceremony:

Other Details

Location: Abuja FCT

Date: Friday,7th December,2012

Venue: Harmonia Hotel off Gimbiya Street,Area 11,Abuja

Time: 10am Prompt

Contact us today:
Website:ebin.org.ng
Email:info@ebin.org.ng
Phone No:+2348038769323

Entrepreneurship Mentoring Seminar

2012-11-09T03:14:00.000-08:00

Topic:
Entrepreneurship Mentoring Seminar
Purpose:
This is a one day seminar program that is designed to be result oriented for the would-be entrepreneur and those already running their entrepreneurial ventures enabling them to have the right foundation platform to increase the survival rate of their enterprise and shorten their learning curve.
Objective:
At the end of this training workshop participants would be increase by 100% the success rate of their entrepreneurial venture as the roadmap to success will be x-rayed indepth; this promises to be highly interactive and result oriented.
Learning Goals:
At the end of this Seminar participants will
1. Learn how to evaluate your fit for becoming an Entrepreneur.
2. Clearly define your business focus/direction
3. Learn how to Market and Sell your products and services Online and Offline
4. Learn how to raise the necessary funding for your business
5. Communicating with Stakeholders, Smart Work tools and Team Management Strategies

Modules:
1.Who is an Entrepreneur?
2.Establishing your Business Plan
3. Marketing your products and services online and offline
4. How to raise funds for your business
5. Communicating with Stakeholders and Team Management Strategies

Target Audience:
Open to all aspiring or current Entrepreneurs

Date of workshop:
December 1st,2012.

Cost of Workshop:
10,000 NGN

Duration of Workshop:
10:00am-4:00pm prompt

Location:
Harmonia Hotel, Onitsha Crescent, off Gimbiya Street, Area 11, Garki, Abuja, Nigeria

HOW TO GET STARTED!
It’s easy to get started in 3 steps:
STEP 1: Pay 10,000 NGN into our account (Ritetrac Consulting Nigeria Limited, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc, 0023331797)
STEP 2: Send payment details to info@ritetracconsult.com.ng or send SMS only to 08191547742 with the subject "ENTREPRENEURSHIP MENTORING SEMINAR" stating your name, phone number, email address and the teller details (number, branch & date)
STEP 3: We shall email you the registration form (you come to the event venue with it).

Inaugral Investiture Employee Benefits Institute Nigeria

2012-02-28T06:53:00.000-08:00

Employee Benefits Institute Nigeria(EBIN)

What Does It Offer You?

First lets understand What the Employees’ Compensation Act (ECA) is all about?

The objectives of ECA are;
i) To provide a fair, guaranteed and adequate compensation for
all insured employees in case of any injury, disease,disability or death arising out of, or in the course of employment.
ii) To rehabilitate employees who suffer work – related injuries,
disabilities, or occupational diseases.
iii) To establish and maintain a solvent compensation fund, which
will be managed in the interest of both employees and employers.
iv) To provide for a fair and adequate assessment of employers’
risk rating and ensure appropriate contribution is paid.
v) To provide a claims procedure that is simple, fast and less
cumbersome for the injured persons, or their dependents in case of death.
vi) To promote the enforcement of occupational safety and health
standards in the workplace.

The EBIN program offers four distinct certifications for those working in employee benefits and compensation. The capstone is the EBP designation—a total compensation credential that is recognized for the depth and breadth of critical knowledge achieved. The Six-course curriculum model for earning the EBP designation helps you get

• Knowledge—not just data. EBIN courses are designed to give you the current, need-to-know information to do your job better and solve your organizational challenges.

• A credential designed for busy professionals. All EBIN courses are designed for self-study and trice-a-year testing, you can make EBIN fit into your schedule.

• The recognition that comes from earning the most sought after designation in employee benefits.

Our Inaugural Investiture:

Location: Nasarawa State

Date: Wednesday,27th June 2012

Venue: Oasis Grand Hotel Along Keffi Abuja Express Way,Maraba,Nasarawa State (By Checking Point Bus Stop)Opposite Building Materials

Time: 10am Prompt

Contact us today:
Website:ebin.org.ng
Email:info@ebin.org.ng
Phone No:+2348038769323

29-02-2012 Join us on #NigerianProjectClinics a Free Twit Chat event

2012-02-28T06:37:00.000-08:00

Welcome to #NigerianProjectClinics a Free Twit Chat event:

Are you on Twitter?

If so then participate with us on 29-02-2012 from (10am-1pm) West African Time at this Twit Chat Event! Follow our hastag #NigerianProjectClinics for this twitter event.

We are on Twitter @ritetracconsult
We are starting something new that will help you get more best practice Knowledge on managing your Projects especially here in Nigeria.
We asking you to ask us the tough questions.
We are Project Management trainers and consultants,
We help people navigate their way through the tough Project Management challenges they may be facing.
People seem to have so many great questions that we thought
we do this event to tackle the much we can during the twit chat event.
You can prepare ahead of time by emailing your questions to info@ritetracconsult.com.ng today with

Your burning question about doing a WBS(Work Breakdown Structure)
Your burning question about Managing Stakeholders
Your burning question about Risk Management
Any question about Contract Types to use for Procurements.
Any question about what to report to Stakeholders on Projects
Your burning question about getting Project Management Training
Any question that could help you achieve your goals through the use of a PMO(Project Management Office)
etc

We are prepared to answer them all to help YOU get your Projects successfully done!
We figure the best way to help is to go straight to the people.
Hope our inbox can handle it. we ready to help you demystify tough Project Management Issues you may be facing.
It’s your time and your turn to be heard.

Ojiugo Ajunwa MBA,PMP
Project Management Consultant/Trainer
Ritetrac Consulting Nigeria Limited
info@ritetracconsult.com.ng
+2348191547742

OPEN LETTER TO GOODLUCK JONATHAN: SAVE THIS HOUSE FROM FALLING!

2012-01-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

By Anozie Awambu
United Kingdom Based Energy Lawyer

OPEN LETTER TO GOODLUCK JONATHAN: SAVE THIS HOUSE FROM FALLING!

Dear President Jonathan,

As Martin Luther King warned, “these are revolutionary times”: Like the Arab spring, the ‘Nigerian Harmattan’ seems to be blowing. All over the country men and woman, young and old, are revolting against an old system of exploitation and oppression. In the scorching sun of failed leadership a soothing river of self-help has sprang forth. A people thirsty of fruitful governance have found an assuaging spring in the streets of protests.

Out of the womb of a cruel polity new aspirations of justice and truth are being born. The frustrated and angry people of Nigeria have risen up as never before. The people who have long lived in depression have found their voice. That voice has eased them the weight of a despair that once held them back. It echoes their recent awakening: that because of complacency and their proneness to adjust to injustices the trustees of their commonwealth have for long taken them for granted while brazenly treating themselves to lavish grandeur.

In that thunderous cry for liberation we have seen unison in the voices of a people otherwise polarised. The literate, in their robust erudition, and the illiterate, in some of the most shocking ignorance, have met at a common crossroad: that in the prevailing socio-economic circumstances in Nigeria your fuel subsidy removal policy does not affirm what is best for them.

In this time when sectarian aggression is ripping apart the fraying thread that binds us in the gloomy search for nationhood. In this time when your inertia had so strengthened the mongers of sectarian hate and the embers of discord were being profusely fanned, the people have found an accord in the revolt against your policy. But I know that the underlying fabric of unity remains badly ripped. The unison you see on the streets of protests is one of convenience. Hate is still brewing in the land. You have not attended to it. In this time when hate has not been doused it is dangerous for the people to be on the streets.

President Jonathan, our country is pregnant with a chaos of diverse ramifications. Leaving the people on the streets is like inducing the birth of that chaos. Mr President, save this house from falling! Budge to our demands, at least in the interim. Heed the advice of the houses of parliament however inchoate their resolutions.
In the days of not too distant past when you were the second fiddle, when you strolled the corridors of power but didn’t have access to its inner chambers; in the days when darkness, only less tick as the one now gathered, covered the land because the captain of the ship of state, lying frail on the sick-bed of Arabia, left the masses incommunicado. For a quarter of a year the Nigerian ship, unmanned, was cruising to a wreck. It was these same people who you now call ignorant and overly impressionable who raised their voices in the cry that a cabal had treated you with contempt. In a loud shout that summed up the sincerity of a people their forthrightness saw to it that what fell to you was given to you. You became Acting President and with the demise of your boss fate had taken you to a height you never dreamt of. Fate had so magically lived out your name –Goodluck. From that moment a myth had intertwined your persona.

And exploiting that uncommon opportunity you presented yourself for their re-endorsement. In your campaigns for election you connected yourself with their lowly stations of life and wove the story of your unmerited ascendancy into their collective and individual dreams. With some of the dexterity this nation had never seen they stood behind you to take you to where you currently sit. But now you refuse to listen to them.

In these protests, may be you are banking on outlasting the masses you once sang sweetly about the days you had no shoes. But be minded that you are now faced with the fact that Nigeria’s tomorrow is in your hands today. In this unfolding conundrum of nationhood and history there shouldn’t be such a thing as being too heady. Posturing is still the thief of peace. History often leaves men who had the chance to make themselves celebrated statesmen to be caught standing bare, naked and dejected with a lost opportunity. President Jonathan here is your opportunity. But more than just your opportunity, here is our future. You must act with the fierce urgency of now.

Reverse the fuel subsidy removal policy. Re-work the subsidy to a model that will be totally phased out in a graduated manner over a 3 -5 year period. Focus on security. Win the trust of Nigerians by cutting the huge costs of governance and by dissociating with the inequities of corruption and proceeding against it. Throw your weight on the power sector. Achieve meaningful progress there. That sector is a magic wand that is able to make you the darling of Nigerians is you fix it for them.

You have disappointed Nigerians but there is still opportunity to write your name in a golden plaque of history. But if you fail, history will pronounce anathema on the man who had no shoes but who lost his heart when he got power. The chance is now yours, but the fate at stake is larger than you, it is that of a hundred and eighty million people. Please hearken to wise counsel.

Anozie Awambu
UK Based Energy Lawyer. "

The need to site the south-south entrepreneurship development centre in Bayelsa State

2012-01-10T13:15:00.000-08:00

by Gibson Gbalimori

One of the main strategies of the administration of Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa State is to build the human capacity level of the people to achieve entrepreneurial development. This is to tackle issues of unemployment, industrial development, wealth creation, capacity enhancement as well as addressing poverty alleviation.
Entrepreneurship development no doubt thrives on opportunities WHICH IF PROVIDED will translate into improvement of the overall quality of life and check the current security situation across the country.
Entrepreneurial development should therefore involve the provision of infrastructure and training centres to achieve desired results. In most industrialized countries, economic growth is engineered mainly by micro and medium enterprises working as catalysts for employment.
Their contribution leads to improved state income from taxation, general well-being and sustainable development. Statistics reveal that micro-small and medium scale enterprises employ more than 80% of people in most developed countries alongside the organized private sector. The Central Bank of Nigeria which drives the nation’s economy came up with an intervention policy to address the poverty level by developing a template for entrepreneurial programme.

Some years ago, the apex bank undertook a study of the issue with a report that over fifty percent of Nigerians live below the poverty line owing to lack of access to credit, poor infrastructure, low productive technologies and low capacity to manage resources. This necessitated the decision to establish Entrepreneurship Development Centres in the six geopolitical zones by the CBN.
In the first phase, only three Centres were established in Onitsha, Kano and Lagos as pilot schemes. Arrangements to establish the other three to cover North-Central, North-East and the South-South have reached advanced stage. Bayelsa State offers a wide potential for accessing the strategic markets in the South-South especially where the issue of Entrepreneurship Development is concerned.
With a high rate of unemployment and low dependency ratio, more than two-thirds of residents in the state are involved in a variety of agricultural trade. Bayelsa being the second largest oil producing State in Nigeria also generates high income from oil and gas with many opportunities for businesses and investors. Indeed, the existing regulatory environment utilizes microcredit and financial linkages to drive economic empowerment and sustainable development necessary for job creation, youth employment and improved security.
This formed the basis for the establishment of the State Microcredit Administration Agency in 2009 by Governor Timipre Sylva. The Agency aims at establishing and maintains contact with the Federal Government, the Central Bank of Nigeria as well as relevant international agencies to facilitate entrepreneurship for the alleviation of poverty.
The government through the Micro Credit Agency had demonstrated enough commitment to host the South-South centre of the Entrepreneurship Development Centre. To complement the centre, the administration is building two skills vocational acquisition centres in Elebele, Ogbia and Asuama in KOlokuma/OPokuma Local Government Areas.

Since Entrepreneurial Development thrives on opportunities and rich natural resource base, Bayelsa State offers opportunities waiting to be exploited.
The Government will also provide basic facilities such as accessible roads, potable water and electricity for the effective take-off of the centre. Also, the sitting of the centre in the state will answer the call for more federal presence. The State Government is prepared to provide all necessary logistics and financial support to the CBN and enact appropriate legislations for its effective take-off.
As the fourth largest economy in the federation, the state possesses the financial ability to sustain the centre and will ensure collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission, the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs and other developmental partners.
In addition the State Microcredit Administration Agency is capable of mobilizing additional input and provide support for the Centre to serve as an instrument for youth empowerment and overall South- South economic development agenda. The government and the people of Bayelsa state are ready to host the Central Bank of Nigeria facilitated Entrepreneurship development centre for the South- South region.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

THE CURRENT STRIDES OF THE NATIONAL HEATH INSURANCE SCHEME

2012-01-08T13:08:00.000-08:00

BY CHRISTOPHER IBEKWE

Health Insurance is a social security system that ensures the provision of healthcare to a group of people who make a token contribution on the agreement that they will contribute for Healthcare. Nigeria’s Health Insurance Scheme came fully on stream when it commenced operations in June, 2005. One of the objectives of the scheme is to ensure equitable distribution of Healthcare cost among various income groups. It is also designed to maintain high standard of Healthcare services, and ensure steady flow of funds to the Health sector for development of infrastructure. Six years on, the scheme has recorded significant milestones in the operations of the formal sector Social Health Insurance.

According to the Executive Secretary, Dr. Waziri Dogo-Mohammed, in 2006, the NHIS took off with about 300,000 enrollees, but now has over Four million persons. To ensure easy access to Healthcare, the scheme has accredited over 7,000 Healthcare facilities; comprising primary, secondary and tertiary Healthcare providers, and over 50 Health Maintenance Organizations. It has also addressed the challenge of funding in the Health system by sourcing funds in addition to the normal budgetary provision. The scheme has also developed programmes such as the Tertiary Institutions Health Insurance Programme, meant to provide healthcare for students in Institutions of Higher Learning. In addition, there is the Voluntary Contributors’ Social Health Insurance Programme for the generality of Nigerians who can afford to register on their own and the Retirees Social Health Insurance Programme.

Equally commendable is the implementation of the NHIS/MDG Maternal and Child Health Project, designed to provide free healthcare service to pregnant women and children under five. This programme whose pilot project began in six states of Gombe, Sokoto, Niger, Oyo, Bayelsa and Imo takes care of over a million pregnant women and their children. Currently, the Maternal and Child Health Project has been extended to twelve more states and will eventually spread to the whole country. The NHIS has also succeeded in promoting public private sector partnership in Healthcare delivery. It has further strengthened its operations through the establishment of a central database for effective management as well as the establishment of a National call centre for instant response to enquiries and complaints by enrollees. The scheme has equally fine-tuned a robust IT Platform known as E-NHIS to improve operations and regulation of the scheme while the amended NHIS Act is under-going various legislative processes to make it more relevant to the times. The NHIS has accredited Banks, Insurance Companies, and Insurance Brokers to participate in the implementation of the scheme. The quality of care given to enrollees is adjudged to be consistent with best practices in Health Insurance Industry.
According to studies, over 87% of Nigerians who are benefitting are satisfied with the service of the NHIS. This perhaps attracted some states like Cross- River and Bauchi to join the programme. The success of the scheme has also attracted the interest of private organizations to enroll their workforce. All these achievements have been made possible by the strong support of the Federal Government. However, there are some challenges facing the operations of the NHIS. One of such is the use of the word ‘Insurance” which some Nigerians find uncomfortable due to Religious and socio-cultural considerations. However, the scheme is tackling this through a comprehensive public enlightenment campaign. Others include professional rivalry between some key Healthcare providers and the controversy of the capitation system of payment, as well as in-house dispensing of Drugs from unaccredited Pharmacies. Inspite of these challenges, the NHIS has moved from a scheme that was viewed with cynicism at the beginning to one that has been widely accepted by all.
The ever increasing clamour for the programme is a strong indication of its success and prospects. As the scheme rolls out to the states and the informal sector, through the Community Based Social Health Insurance Programme, the NHIS, adjudged to be the fastest growing Social Health Insurance Scheme in the world is confident of achieving the mandate of universal access to Healthcare in Nigeria by 2015.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF DR. KAYODE FAYEMI AS GOVERNOR OF EKITI STATE.

2012-01-08T13:05:00.000-08:00

BY OLAYINKA OYEBODE.

For the people and the government of Ekiti State, October is a historic milestone. It is memorable for the nationhood as well as for the birth of Ekiti State which was carved out of Ondo State 15 years ago. Although 15 years may not be a landmark in the Gregorian calendar, October this year is symbolic of freedom and justice with the emergence of the government of Dr. John Kayode Fayemi for the people of EkitiState. October last year marked a new dawn after a long, legal battle to reclaim the electoral mandate which the people of Ekiti State gave to Dr Fayemi during the April 14, 2007 election.

The victory of Dr. Kayode Fayemi is an expression of the age-long reputation of the doggedness, determination and unity of the Ekiti people in whatever vision they believe in. Since the inception of his administration, Dr. Fayemi has enunciated his vision that someday, poverty, diseases and underdevelopment will become history in Ekiti State.He has encapsulated this vision in the 8-point agenda which captures all-round and even development in the State by 2014. By this date, the Ekiti State Government envisions that as the country is marking its centenary anniversary, the people of Ekiti State will be celebrating with good road networks, regular water supply, mechanized agriculture, good health and comprehensive social security for the vulnerable. They will also be celebrating in a state, where both men and women have equal opportunities and where education has become more qualitative and the youth have become highly motivated and empowered. Dr Kayode Fayemi has, within the last one year, laid a solid foundation to actualize all these. The Government has been able to restore peace to the once troubled state.
The administration has also built an efficient database to aid the holistic development of Ekiti State. The past year has been a period of confidence building during which the Fayemi administration was able to attract the admiration and goodwill of different strata of the society, both within and outside the state.
The first year anniversary which was marked with an investment and economic summit had Prominent captains of industries and investors in attendance to suggest ways of economic rejuvenation of the state. In an attempt to harness the intellectual potentialities of Ekiti people, the State Government had earlier organized the first- ever Education Summit to develop a plan to meet the people’s crave for better qualitative education. Under his leadership, Ekiti state has hosted the forum of governors of the old Western States, a regional platform to harness resources to address their common challenges. The logo and the motto of Ekiti state have undergone transformation in the philosophical framework as The Land of Honour.
This is to provide the watchword for the government and the people to have a new mind set for honour in whatever they do. The Government under Fayemi also seeks partnership both within and outside the country to attract development to Ekiti State. In this endeavor, he has personally consulted with relevant Ministries, Developments and Agencies of the Federal Government and many development partners both within and outside the country to explore investment opportunities in the state. The last one year of Governor Kayode Fayemi has been characterized by youth empowerment, manpower development and planning for a new Ekiti State. It is a new Ekiti State where the yet unborn child, the yet unemployed, the worker and the pensioner, the teacher, the old and the young, the artisan and the academic receive the attention of the government. It is Ekiti State with added values where the people have a sense of honour in the land of honour.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

STRENGTHENING THE WAR AGAINST CORRUPTION

2012-01-08T13:03:00.000-08:00

BY MUHAMMAD NASIR

For a very long time, corruption has been acknowledged as the single most serious obstacle to economic and democratic development in Nigeria. It is manifested mainly in the form of bribery and embezzlement of public funds. The phenomenon has contributed in no small measures to the political and economic problems. The nation has faced since independence. With the return of democracy in 1999 Clear moves were made to put in place measures for combating corruption. This culminated into the establishment of two anti –corruption agencies, the ICPC and the Economic and Financial crime Commission EFCC.
However, the nation is still grappling with the problems of governance and how to effectively combat and prevent the menace. There are no limits to the devastating effects of corruption. It leads to the waste of skills and precious time is wasted in unproductive endeavour. The government also looses a lot of money and resources in setting up committees to fight corruption. With government committing huge sums of money to tackle pressing problems, from the instability of financial markets to climate change and poverty, corruption remains an obstacle to achieving much needed progress. The issue of inconsistency of government policy is another bane to the problem. In spite of the progress made, there are calls for government to overhaul its anti-corruption agencies to gain public confidence and to ensure probity and accountability in public service. The international community had also expressed concern over the performance of the anti-graft agencies. The major problem in tackling the menace appears to be that those that get caught, instead of making examples out of them, are elevated to higher offices which make it look as if there is one set of rules is for politicians and another set is for the citizens. In our traditional settings corruption has gradually become not only organized and institutionalized but also an acceptable way of life. Few would disagree with the contention that in Nigeria today, nepotism, bribery and even extortion have become a way of life for many. There is the need therefore to check its pervasiveness and its implications for governance and the value system in general and the political culture in particular.
To address these challenges, the federal government needs to integrate its anti-corruption machineries in all spheres, from their responses to the financial crisis and to commitments by the international community to eradicate poverty. The transparency international advocates stricter implementation of the United Nations convention against corruption which should be adhered to in order to ensure the drastic reduction or even eradication of corruption. To this end, Nigeria must understand the wider implication of corruption and the impediments it creates. We must realize that eliminating corruption is central to restoring security. This can be achieved through allowing people to have access to information on the decisions and actions taken by public authorities. The promulgation of Freedom of Information Act is a step in the light direction. The media must also play a major role in exposing corruption, through awareness creation. We also need a commitment on the part of public representatives and opinion makers to control corruption.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

A TRIBUTE ON THE LIFE AND TIME OF LATE ARCHBISHOP JONATHAN ONYEMELUKWE.

2012-01-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

BY SIR OSELOKA OFFOR

Like a man who has a date with history, Arch Bishop Jonathan Arinzechukwu Onyemelukwe came at a time people needed rescue from satanic influences occasioned by spiritual blindness and lack of civilization. Born in 1930 at Nanka, Anocha Local Government Area of Anambra State to Nze Mark Ejike Onyemelukwe and Madam Amanya Onyemelukwe, both of blessed memory, the late Arch Bishop started his formal education at St. James' Church Vernacular School Nanka and Ekwulobia Central School. He had his secondary education at Dennis Memorial Grammar School. It was there that he received a call to be a pastor. On successful completion, he was posted to Nsukka in 1951 as a church helper and auxiliary teacher.

In 1952, he was re-located to Amawbia Central School under the tutelage of a white missionary staff of St. Paul's College Awka , Reverend George Bernard of the Church Missionary Society CMS. In 1953, he moved on to Trinity College Umuahia where he completed his general ordination course and obtained Diploma in Theology Certificate of London University. He was ordained a deacon in 1955 after which he travelled to Canada for further studies where he obtained higher degrees. He became a full time missionary and worked as a chaplain under the Arch Bishop of West Africa living in Sierra Leone until 1959 and then got married to young beatrice Onubuaku Anwuna. Being a missionary committed to transforming the unjust structures of the society as well as protecting the integrity of God's creation, Reverend Jonathan Onyemelukwe was away when the Nigeria Civil war broke out. He returned in 1969. Worried by the agonies of the civil war and extent of destruction of lives and property, Reverend Onyemelukwe undertook several works of charity, helping the sick and bringing relief materials under world council of churches. At the end of the war in 1970, he was posted to the present Awka Diocese and appointed the Archdeacon of the Awka Archdeaconry.
After one year, he was appointed Principal of Trinity Theological College, Umuahia in 1971 where he served until December 1974 when he was elected Bishop. He was consecrated by the Archbishop of West Africa, the Most Reverend M. Scott on February 23rd 1975. Coming on board as Bishop , the Right Reverend Dr. Jonathan Onyemelukwe widened the scope of evangelism and brought the gospel to the door steps of the people resulting in thousands of Christian converts, springing up of churches, and elimination of fear, superstition and ungodly practices in many towns and villages. Bishop Onyemelukwe successfully completed the All Saints Cathedral Church Onitsha, making it a thing of pride and a place of pilgrimage for Christians. This edifice was dedicated by the Most Reverend Adetiloye on First Novenmber, 1992. Bishop Onyemelukwe served in various positions within the church. He represented the Church of Nigeria on Peace and Justice Network of the World Wide Anglican Communion for more than ten years. He also served as Commissioner in the World Council of Churches , Medical Mission for over six years.

Finally, he was honoured with special award in acknowledgement of his outstanding contributions during his tenure as Dean of Church of Nigeria by the Most Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola, the immediate past Primate of All Nigeria. Committed to a sustainable Anglican Spirituality, Bishop Onyemelukwe saw to the carving out of the Awka Diocese of the Communion and after ten years of its existence, Nnewi was also carved out. He expanded the involvements of the mission in Education, Health Care and Moral upbringing of people, resulting in the setting up of the Holy Innocents Juniorate Convets Nkpor, St. Christopher Junior Seminary Onitsha, the famous Iyienu Mission Hospital and other hospitals and clinics in the hinterlands of the Diocese on the Niger. Furthermore, he reintroduced the Knighthood in the Church of Nigeria in 1978 in a bid to give credible leadership to the laity of the church. It is obvious that from the on set, Arch Bishop Jonathan Onyemelukwe has set a clear cut agenda for his Episcopacy.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

THE NEED FOR ATTITUDINAL CHANGE AMONG NIGERIANS.

2012-01-08T12:56:00.000-08:00

ALFRED AJAYI

It was a former American President, John F. Kennedy who admonished his citizens, “Do not think of what America will do for you, but think of what you will do for America”. It is also true that most of the developed societies attained their present status through the concerted efforts of all citizens and residents. Unfortunately, same cannot be said of our dear country, Nigeria where citizens do and say unprintable things about their country without recourse to the impact of such on the nation. While Americans rise in the morning to bless their country, Nigerians on daily basis make negative confessions like “Nigeria is spoilt beyond repair”, “This country cannot be good again” et cetera.
Many endlessly expect what Nigeria can do for them and are not willing to do anything for the sake of the country. However, there are other Nigerians who still believe that the country will work and achieve greatness, regardless of its current state. With the transformation agenda already set by the Administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria is on its way to all round development that will meet the yearnings of all and sundry. Nevertheless, it must be stated that meaningful and enduring transformation is a challenge for both the leaders and the followers even as it demands attitudinal change across board. To this end, Government functionaries at all levels are expected to set the pace by curbing wasteful spending as well as reducing the cost of governance. The Federal Government’s efforts in setting up a committee to discover areas of waste in Government through duplication of functions in federal Ministries, departments and agencies is therefore commendable. Political Office holders should be patriotic in service and be accountable in all their dealings.

This is because ostentatious display of wealth as is the current experience by some of them is partly responsible for the increasing wave of crime and insecurity in the country. On their part, Nigerians should know that the onus is on them to give whatever they can in evolving a country of their dream. There is need for us to have a holistic reflection of our lifestyle and see if we have contributed anything substantial to the national drive towards economic prosperity. Those in the civil service and the private sector should use their positions to contribute meaningfully to the progress and growth of the nation. It is on this note that those involved in the recent threat to national unity and security are urged to have a rethink. It takes unpatriotic elements to bomb and destroy their country’s places of interest as being witnessed in the country, no matter the grievances or level of provocation. It is regrettable that this new dimension had put Nigeria in the global spotlight for the wrong reasons. Besides, security agents too must be seen to be nationalistic in the discharge of their constitutionally assigned duties.

It is a national demand on us as citizens to become more conscious of security and volunteer necessary information about unpatriotic persons. Patriotism demands that citizens toe the path of dialogue and adopt peaceful means of expressing their grievances against any policy or programme of government. Whatever we do, we must ask ourselves, how much does it enhance the transformation process? No matter how good the intention of the government, it is the patriotic zeal on the part of those in authority and the citizens that will translate to faithfulness and efficacy in translating them to the positive results.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

THE NEED FOR RESPONSIILITY AND PROFESSIONALISM IN INFORMATION DISSEMINATION

2012-01-08T12:54:00.000-08:00

BY Emmanuel Odoh

There is no doubt that the guarantee of fundamental human rights, including the freedom of expression and press constitute one of the major differences between democracy and other forms of government. The freedom to hold and share information, ideas, and opinion not only deepens the roots of democracy, but also enriches the quality of human life and dignity.

Instructively, Nigeria is one of the nations where such freedoms are enshrined in the constitution. This is also in addition to the Freedom of Information Act which makes the land even more fertile for the cultivation of information and ideas. However, it is also imperative to note that every right comes with responsibility and limits without which the state would descend to anarchy. This has been aptly captured by Oliver Wendell Jr. who once said that “Your right to swing your fist ends where my nose begins”.

It is against this backdrop that the recent misleading media reports that there were moves in the Senate, through a private member bill by the Deputy President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu to legalise prostitution must be viewed as an abuse of the liberty to hold and impart ideas and information. This is more so when it is realised that there was never any such bill before the Senate or a motion on prostitution debated on the floor. Rather, the Senate actually debated a motion on the need to stamp out human trafficking in the nation.

This misinformation by just a single news medium that Senator Ike Ekeremadu had introduced a bill to legalize prostitution immediately became a subject of news stories and debate on the internet, newspapers, and the electronic media. Some broadcast stations also made such falsehood a topic of phone-in programmes where people expectedly called in to make derogatory comments about the National Assembly, while a print medium made it the subject of its editorial.

This is a very saddening development in view of the negative implications of such reports not only on the reputation of individuals and the Senate as an institution, but also to the Nigerian public which trust in the capacity of the Nigerian media industry to be professional, objective, and also rise beyond pecuniary interests.

It is therefore not surprising that this has once more reignited the call for the revival of professionalism and high ethical standards in the practice of journalism. Media professionals must uphold the age long journalistic obligation of gate-keeping and crosschecking of information before passing on such to the public. The false report on the senate clearly showed that there was no attempt to crosscheck the information at the disposal of the medium. This is most disheartening.

This scenario also bring to the fore the need for training and retraining of media personnel who cover sensitive bits such as the parliament. Such specialised personnel must also be able to discern mischief and political intrigues in whatever form they may manifest. This too has become most imperative in view of the endless allegations of compromise against some journalists who sell their consciences to the highest bidders.

Very importantly also, regulatory institutions and professional bodies should ensure that media organisations and professionals within their purview operate responsibly under relevant laws of the land and professional codes of ethics.
Indeed, all hands must be on deck to ensure no person undeservedly falls victim in the exercise of the freedoms of expression, press and information.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN CONFLICT RESOLUTION

2012-01-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

BY ABU ALILU

Peace is said to be a state of calm characterized by the lack of violent conflict, commonly understood as the absence of hostility. In other word peace also suggests the existence of healthy or newly healed interpersonal or international relationships and prosperity in matters of social or economic welfare. The absence of peace leads to conflict. Conflict is more than a mere disagreement - it is a situation in which people perceive a threat to their well-being be it physical, emotional or social . Generally, formal peace process include early warning, preventive diplomacy and conflict prevention. Our mothers by nature are closer to their children, and thus possess these peace process strategies more than anybody.
However, prevailing assumptions about the women’s appropriate roles in a society, particularly in relation to decision-making and conventional assumptions about their areas of expertise, have been used to exclude them from informal or formal and all other peace processes. In some peace talks, for example, some male delegates questioned the presence of women, seeing their wish to be involved as interference in the process . Nevertheless, it is happy to note that the United Nations as well as other regional bodies are increasingly recognizing the position of women’s leadership in the prevention and resolution of conflict and crises. For instance, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action acknowledged the crucial role of women during times of armed conflict and the collapse of communities and called for the establishment of an active and visible policy of mainstreaming a gender perspective when addressing armed and other conflict.

In fact more than a decade ago, on 31 October 2000 the United Nations took the first step in identifying the important position women hold in preventing and resolving Conflict with the passage of a resolution which stressed the importance of women’s equal participation and full involvement in all efforts of the maintenance and promotion of peace and security. It also emphasized the need to increase their role in decision making with regard to conflict prevention and resolution. The impact of this resolution was further solidified by the establishment of national action plans by 24 nations, confirming government support at the national level for the inclusion of women in conflict resolutions. Women therefore have a role in ensuring a peaceful and healthy society. They can do this by inculcating sound moral instruction into the younger generation. Naturally, children tend to endere more to their mothers than fathers. This provides a good channel for mothers to impact positive virtues of peace to their children and ward right from childhood because a peaceful society begins with a peaceful home. Many of the conflict enveloping the globe emanate from the family to community and like a spark of fire spreads across a state and its environs.
Often times, issues such as poverty, struggle for scarce resources, lack of infrastructures and violations of human rights are indentified as the root causes of conflict in the society. In this regard, successful strategies for empowering women should be put in place. Informal activities such as peace marches and protests, intergroup dialogue, the promotion of inter-cultural tolerance should be encouraged to be spearheaded by our women. We cannot forget how women such as Fummilayo Ransome Kuti and Margaret Ekpo stared a revolution that brought about changes in our country. Women on their part , should be mindful of the power that lies inside of them and use it positively amidst numerous challenges to positively change the world.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

Time to Stand up for Nigeria

2012-01-08T12:48:00.000-08:00

By Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali

The first of October every year is Nigeria’s independence anniversary. It is a day that is historic in many respects. Apart from bringing to the fore the immeasurable and selfless struggles of our founding fathers which led to the attainment of independence in 1960, the day offers a golden opportunity to all Nigerians for a deeper reflection on the essence of nationhood.
At independence, the founding fathers committed themselves to building a united, strong and prosperous nation, where everyone irrespective of tribe and religion shall rise to protect and defend the country. Indeed, this commitment was to ensure that our diverse people who are blessed with abundant human and material resources will live in peace and harmony.
Over the last 51 years therefore, Nigerians of all walks of life have left no one in doubt of their total commitment to this sacred ideal. In this vein, though Nigeria fought a fratricidal civil war, it emerged stronger from it. There was no victor and there was no vanquished! Through the subsequent challenge of the last two decades of the 20st century and the beginning of the 21st century, Nigerians have remained ever united in the indivisibility of their nation.
While the greatest challenge of the 80s and 90s was how to return Nigeria to the path of democracy, May 29th 1999 became the water shed in the collective struggle for the enthronement of democracy as the best form of government. As we celebrate the 51years of independence, Nigerians have every reason to also celebrate our democratic gains as a nation. The Peoples Democratic Party is pleased to be associated with the historic progress the Federal Government has made to further the realization of the vision of the founding fathers of Nigeria.
Today, President Goodluck Jonathan has unfolded as well as taken critical steps in the quest to transform Nigeria. It is noteworthy, that for the first time in recent history, Nigerians went to the polls to vote their leaders in elections adjudged by local and international observers as free, fair and credible.
There is no doubt that the task of building a strong, united and prosperous Nigeria as envisioned by our founding fathers is not easy. However, the commitment and steadfastness of Nigerians, coupled with the numerous efforts of our leaders past and present are enough assurance that things can only get better.
Perhaps, there is no better time to stand up for Nigeria than today. There is no better time to prove that the efforts of our heroes past shall not be in vain than now. The present challenge of development for example, will no doubt melt away in the face of the resolve of the people to live together in one indivisible nation.
As we mark this year’s independence anniversary therefore, Nigerians must remain undaunted in their determination for peaceful co-existence. All interest groups with any form of grievance should seek the path of dialogue rather than resort to senseless violence; Nigerians as well as friends of Nigeria should continue to support President Goodluck Jonathan in his efforts to transform Nigeria.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

TOWARDS DECONGESTING ABUJA

2012-01-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

BY DR. S.A. SHAIBU (JP)

Abuja is now becoming like Lagos. Traffic congestion is now an everyday problem. This is because everybody wants to be located in the city centre. This again brings to the fore the need to go back to the basics of Abuja Master plan. Yes, Abuja city is not synonymous with Federal Capital Territory. It is not conceptualized to have development muddled up in the capital city. There is the need for us to go back to the drawing board. The bane of the present challenges in our developmental journey is that there is a need for leaders at the various tiers of government to go back to the dreams of our founding fathers. Abuja should not replicate or duplicate the problems of Lagos. And to do this, we need to go back to the basis of satellite towns’ development- to decongest Abuja.

This can be done by directing some Ministries, departments and agencies to go to designated satellite towns. For instance, the Ministries Agriculture and defence, because of their strategic value could be moved out of the city center to the suburbs. We can go on and on. Many of the agencies are presently compounding the growing congestion of the city which is meant to be the model of capital city development in the entire world. In the original master plan, specific satellite towns were designated as industrial bases, Agriculture basis, automotive centre, science and technology centre as well as University/Education centre. This was meant to ensure even development of the entire capital territory. What do we see now? Everyone, as well as organizations in both the private and public sectors want to be in the city centre. The situation has gone so bad that even some organizations with the gigantic and huge complexes have abandoned them to be in rented apartment in the city centre. This was not the concept of Abuja development.

Need we say more about the need for inter city and intra-city rail, road, mass transit and metro projects that are vital to modern city development? The on-going rail option is a step in the right direction. We can do more. There is the need for government to ensure funding for the project to enable the completion of the work on schedule. There is also the need for collaboration by all and sundry to make Abuja the centre of excellence in construction and development engineering. The present dualization of some major entry points to Abuja is commendable. Other ministries, parastatals and the private sectors that are insisting on further congesting the city thereby compounding the problem of the city should be directed to the satellite towns of FCT. The teeming beggars and youths that are unemployed in Abuja should be sent to rehabilitation centres that teach different entrepreneurial skills in business, farming and plantations cultivations outside the city centre.
If we follow all these and devout more time to planning and projection, Abuja will indeed be the pride of the Nation.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

WORLD STANDARDS DAY

2012-01-08T12:43:00.000-08:00

BY: DENIS OLISEH

Today is World Standards Day!
The Standards Organization of Nigeria is using the opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers sub-standard products pose to the safety and well being of our people and the nation. It is also a day to examine the importance of standardization to the economy and to promote its role in helping meet the needs of business, industry, government, and consumers nationwide. The 14th of October was chosen to commemorate Standards Day by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to mark the anniversary of the first meeting of delegates from 25 countries that resulted in its formation to develop International Standards that facilitate trade, spread knowledge and disseminate technological advances. The 2011 World Standards Day message with the theme: International standards: creating confidence globally is endorsed by the leaders of the three principal international standardization organizations namely: Dr. Klaus Wucherer, President of the International Electrotechnical Commission, Dr. Boris Aleshin, President of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and Dr. Hamadoun Touré, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The three organizations are the partners which make up the World Standards Cooperation (WSC). Their message points out that international standard for products and services underpin quality, safety, reliability, efficiency and effectiveness. In Nigeria, the Standards Organization of Nigeria was established in 1971 with the mandate which includes the preparation of standards relating to products, measurements, materials, processes and services and their promotion at national and international levels. The Organization is very strategic in the regulation of standards and enforcement of compliance of products and services to acceptable standards. The mandate also includes the certification of products, assistance in the production of quality goods and services, improvement of measurement accuracies and circulation of information relating to standards. In its 40 years of existence the S.O.N. has established offices in 30 states of the federation, comprising three zonal offices and two national offices in Lagos and Abuja and two laboratories located in Lagos and Enugu for testing. Admittedly there are serious challenges facing standards and quality management in the country such as unexplained fire incidences, building collapse, environment pollution as well as cheap and ineffective products. Nigeria has become a dumping ground for all manner of substandard products. President Goodluck Jonathan acknowledged this during his official inauguration of an industrial plant in Otta, Ogun State recently. Unofficially, more than 80% of products in our markets are substandard. But since the appointment of Dr. Joseph Odumodu, as the Director-General of SON, things are beginning to change for the better.
On assumption of office, the new DG announced a six point transformational agenda to make the Agency more effective and efficient. Dr. Odumodu declared enhanced capacity building, improving Global relevance, consumer engagement and protection, compliance monitoring, encouraging made-in-Nigeria products for national development as well as media engagement as his major priorities. Amongst the achievements of the new helmsman are his zero tolerance campaign against sub-standards products which has gained wide acceptance and support from Nigerian manufacturers which has made life more difficult for economic saboteurs. The Agency has also recently opened consumer Help Desks at major markets to enable consumers make enquiries before buying any product. Corruption is being tackled as new electronic payment system has been introduced at the ports to reduce incidences of bribe of SON officials. The DG has also consistently engaged with the organized private sector and small and medium enterprises with a view to encourage local manufacturing of products among other achievements.
It is in keeping with the new momentum of activities of the Standards Organization of Nigeria to fight sub-standard products that the Agency in this year’s celebration has adopted the theme: creating confidence through zero tolerance for sub-standards products. And as we celebrate this year’s World Standard Day, we encourage all Nigerians to join the zero-tolerance campaign against substandard products for our collective safety, wellbeing and economic prosperity.

Source: FRCN daily Commentary

LAUNCH OF WORLD BANK SPONSORED YOUTHS’ EMPOWERMENT SCHEME IN ABIA STATE.

2012-01-08T12:40:00.000-08:00

By Chief Don Ubani
by empowering her youths; that is- The economy becomes more vibrant and sustainable while Crime is reduced to the barest minimum. Being conscious Today, the people and Government of Abia state will play host to the inauguration of the Youth Empowerment Scheme, known as ‘YOU-WIN’, an initiative of the World Bank and the Federal Government. The ceremony which will be performed by the co-ordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, will mark the formal introduction of the scheme in the South-East Geo-political zone. YOU-WIN! stands for Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria. It is an innovative business plan competition aimed at job creation by encouraging and supporting aspiring entrepreneurial youth in Nigeria to develop and execute business ideas. The scheme which was unveiled by President Goodluck Jonathan last month is targeted at youth between 18 and 35 years who already own businesses or have viable business plans. Suffice it to say that the scheme is part of the government’s plans at reducing the level of youth unemployment in the country, which is currently very alarming.
The Government and people of Abia state are conscious of the fact that the occasion being held in the state capital, Umuahia is a zonal event for Abia, Anambra, Ebony, Enugu and Imo States which is expected to have the Governors of the concerned states in attendance. Abia State government is naturally excited by this Youth Empowerment Scheme; YOU-WIN, as packaged by the Federal Ministry of Finance, with the assistance of the World Bank. The State government, under Chief Theodore Orji, knows and appreciates the sensitive role youths play in the socio-economic and political dynamics of any polity and has, therefore, been consistent in her pursuit of youth empowerment. Abia State government has always believed that there are, at least, two fundamental gains a society inevitably derives of the necessity of youth empowerment for a robust, productive and crime-free society, the state government, through the ministries of Youth Development, Women Affairs and Co-operative and Poverty Reduction, has been empowering the Abia youths through various skill acquisition programmes. Many of the beneficiaries of the state youth empowerment scheme have also been assisted with equipment and funds that could facilitate their take-off as self-employed citizens. Only last year, the State government facilitated the training of about one thousand five hundred Abia youths in various trades. Currently, it has embarked on the training and funding of four thousand, five hundred and fifty Abia Youths. It is therefore no surprise that Abia State was chosen to host the launch of this Youth Empowerment Scheme for the South-East Zone. It is incontrovertible that of all the commercial cities in Nigeria, Aba, is has substantially proven its capacity for effectively combining merchandize with manufacturing. The economic policy of the Abia State government is encapsulated in its transformation agenda, which lays emphasis on self reliance. This economic policy is in tandem with that of the federal government and as a result produces a synergy necessary for economic growth. Aba, the industrial and commercial capital of Abia state indeed holds a great potential in any technological aspiration of the country. This is because the people are ingenious, creative, resilient and productive. Any investment in the state’s industrial capacity will therefore only be the right investment decision.
The Abia State Government wants to assure the World Bank and the Federal Government that the essence of the YOU-WIN programme, to the extent of its application in Abia State, would be a total success in all its ramification.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

AKWA-IBOM AND DEVELOPMENT STRIDES

2012-01-08T12:35:00.000-08:00

By: Ukpe

Recently Governor Godswill Obot Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State scored another significant achievement when the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly sent him a letter of commendation in recognition of his numerous developmental programmes and the transformation of Akwa Ibom State. That singular was indeed thought provoking as it was the first time a serving Governor would be so commended by the state legislature. The commendation was based on a resolution of the House which expressed the appreciation of the people, to the Governor. The commendation which also congratulated the Governor on his recent recognitions was contained in a letter signed by the Clerk of the House. The resolution was instructive for many reasons.

First, it was the first time in the history of Akwa Ibom State that a House of Assembly would so happily identify with the vision of a serving Governor and commend him in a resolution for doing a great work in governing the state. Second, as representatives of the people, the House resolution lent itself to the age-old Roman maxim that the “voice of the people, is the voice of God” and gave weight to the theme of Governor Akpabio’s re-election campaign in the last election, “Let God’s will be done again.” The House affirmed what the people said in that election with this commendation. Acknowledging that the Governor had discharged the responsibilities of his office with utmost dedication, the House appreciated him for the different developmental programmes including free and compulsory education from primary school up to senior secondary school level, empowerment of women through the micro-credit schemes, integrated farmer’s scheme and empowerment of youths through appointments, infrastructural development, and people friendly health programmes.

During a recent visit to inaugurate the Government Guest House, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, attested to the development being witnessed in Akwa-Ibom state. The same view was shared by President Goodluck Jonathan, on his visit to the state last year when he hailed the State Government for the quality of the projects undertaken and urged everyone in the state to support the Government. Suffice it to say that the list of commendations is as endless as the many projects completed in the state. Some of the recent awards bestowed on the state Governor for his work in the state include the Doctor of Management Science by the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Congressional Certificate of Recognition of the United States Congress. The House observed that by honouring the Governor, the state and its people were also honoured. The experience in Akwa Ibom State indeed shows that Government can truly work and governance can be a bridge between the people and their dream.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

Ebonyi’s celebration of gratitude and excellence

2012-01-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

By Mr Emmanuel Chike Onwe

When Ebonyi state was created 14 years ago, there were a lot of cynicisms about the potential of the state. True, it had produced many notable names, which made some impact on the polity of the country. But doubts lingered on the ability of the new state to grapple with and overcome the vagaries of statehood. Hardly had the state been created than critics started a campaign of non-viability against it. The fact that it took the struggle for its creation for thirty nine years, however, underscores a peoples’ belief in themselves and a determination to come out of the marginalisation they were suffering in the states they then belonged to.
True, the area now called Ebonyi state has known abject neglect and degradation by successive governments in the states they had belonged to. There were virtually no tarred roads, no electricity, disease free water and visible government appointees in the area.
The deprivations were palpable to frustrating dimensions but the people persevered. Today, however, the story has changed. The state has metamorphosed into a cosmopolitan environment that challenges most of the older states in infrastructure, manpower, ambience and a huge capacity contribution to the development of the nation. It has become a reference point in peaceful coexistence, enterprise, development and purposeful leadership. The Ebonyi man is humble, trustworthy, resilient, dependable and very honest. He is conscientious, prudent and peace loving. He is tolerant of divergent and dissenting opinions and generally believes in ‘live and let live’. Little wonder that the state is home to most Nigerians from different parts of the country irrespective of tribe and religion. These two virtues will be celebrated today as Governor; Martin Nwancho Elechi leads the entire state to thank President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for appointing her sons and daughters into prominent government positions. Already, the state is agog with a festive air as all roads lead to the Township stadium Abakaliki where a Civic reception will hold in their honour. These appointees include Professor Christian Onyebuchi Otu Chukwu, the Honourable Minister of Health, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim GCON, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Justice Sylvester Nwali Ngwuta of the Supreme Court, Justice Obande Ogbuinya of the Court of Appeal, Justice Uche Onyemenam of the Court of Appeal, Mr Elias Mbam, Chairman Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission, Chief Barrister Okeagu Ogadah, Member, Revenue Mobilisation and Fiscal Commission, Chief Lawrence Nwuruku, National Commissioner, Independent Electoral Commission and Prof. Selina Omagha Oko, Resident Electoral Commissioner of Imo state. For Governor Martin Elechi, who led the thirty nine year struggle for the state creation, it is a celebration of victory. For Ebonyians, it is gratitude time as they thank a benefactor who has found their sons and daughters worthy of trust. And for the honourees, it is an acknowledgement by their brothers and sisters that they have done well indeed. Thus the civic reception today is an affirmative action of a grateful people to the President and a call to serve the country well as a true Ebonyi son and daughter by the appointees. It is a call for dedication to duty even as the state awaits other goodies from the President.
The people of Ebonyi state are grateful and appreciative to the president. They are optimistic that the future holds even greater promises. Our vibrant lawmakers at both the national and state levels, workers, market women, our teeming farmers, the rural dwellers and indeed all Ebonyians are all upbeat and will treat all our friends and guests to the traditional Ebonyi hospitality. Our dancers, who are famed for enthralling world leaders are on hand and will treat you to rhythms only they can produce.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

RENEWED EFFORTS TO ERADICATE POLIO

2012-01-08T12:30:00.000-08:00

By TUNDE AKANNI

Over the years, the problem of polio has received the attention of stake holders both nationally and internationally. The aim is to ensure total eradication of the disease from our shores. Polio attacks children, deforms and sometimes kills them, plunging families into hardship and untold sorrows. The fight against polio is particularly imperative, because it is a way of protecting the nation’s future. However much still need to be done in this regard. The involvement of the community is paramount in any efforts geared towards eradicating the disease. Information on how the disease can be eradicated is therefore crucial. Thus the need to increase efforts at creating the desired sensitisation. At the federal level, a lot of efforts have gone into this task. At the state level, Governors under the aegis of the Nigerian Governors Forum have drawn up a quarterly sensitisation programme to raise awareness on the need to rein in polio across the country. This programme which will continue up till next year is primarily intended to strenghten the war against the disease, and help to totally eliminate it. The sensitisation consists of dedicating one day every quarter to hold campaigns in all the states with the Governors as the lynch- pin to raise the level of awareness like they will do tomorrow.

At various fora, decisions have been taken to ensure concerted approach to fight the disease. At a meeting of State Governors, they reviewed the polio situation in the country and agreed that even though much progress had been made towards curbing the menace in Nigeria, a lot more work needed to be done to completely eradicate the scourge.
During the sensitisation days, the governments would commit substantial resources to creating more awareness about the disease and how it could be eradicated. Apart from massive campaigns in the media, they are also to collaborate with other stakeholders in the health sector to sensitise parents on the need to immunise their children against the disease. The campaign is to essentially make polio vaccine administrators engage with nursing mothers who ensure that the children are made available for polio vaccines. However these efforts should not be left to the mothers alone which perhaps explains the philosophy behind the theme of tomorrow’s campaign which is ‘women against polio’. However, the men also have a big task and must join in the protracted battle against polio.
It is commendable that efforts are been made to ensure the total eradication of the disease from Nigeria once and for all. However, the governors must not rest on their oars until that objective is achieved. This is necessary especially as a recent report by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which is collaborating with the other stakeholders including the Nigeria’s Governors Forum in fighting polio, had painted a very dismal picture of the polio battle in Nigeria. The report has it that the disease was resurging in some states in the North.
It expressed concern about the polio situation in Nigeria with few cases still prevalent in some parts of the country and spreading to neighbouring countries like Mali and Niger. This development no doubt dampens the world’s hope for a breakthrough in stopping the disease. The sensitisation campaigns by the Governors Forum must therefore be commended and seen as even more urgent and necessary as Nigeria is still one of the four polio endemic countries in the world. The others been India, Afghanistan and Pakistan. All efforts aimed at getting Nigeria out of the list are not only necessary but also mandatory.

Source: FRCN daily commentary

ATTITUDINAL RE-ORIENTATION AND NAFDAC OPERATION

2012-01-08T12:28:00.000-08:00

BY Martins Ikhilae

The success of any crusade is dependent on the degree of acceptance and support it enjoys from its target audience. Indisputably, the quest for an effective and efficient health care is the desire of every individual irrespective of national or societal status. In developed countries, emphasis is placed on the provision of a reliable health care sector. The reason for this is simply because, without Health, wealth creation and sustenance is absolutely unachievable. In Nigeria, for instance, the crusade to improve citizens access to effective health care is being driven by the National Agency For Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The approach with which this agency’s health crusade is being pursued is indicative of its seriousness to discharge its statutory responsibilities.
It is clear that NAFDAC has initiated different efforts at stamping out disastrous health practices. However, adequate cooperation and support on the part of the entire Nigerian populace is required to make the agency’s efforts successful. Its determination to identify counterfeited and substandard pharmaceuticals and unwholesome processed foods is indeed a very worthy engagement in view of the havoc these substances have unleashed on the unsuspecting public. It has also made available, sophisticated devices for easily spotting fake regulated products as well as exposing dealers in this condemnable trade. Just recently, a high powered Federal Task Force on fake and counterfeit drugs and unwholesome processed products was set up to compliment state task forces saddled with similar responsibility. The taskforces comprise members of the Pharmacist Council of Nigeria, the Consumer Protection Council, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Custom Service and NAFDAC. Having recognized the fact that domestic efforts are insufficient to check these drug counterfeiters, NAFDAC sought assistance of the World Health Organization to garner the desired international support. In response, the WHO, established an ‘International Medical Products Anti-Counterfeit Task Force’ with the Director-General of NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii as Vice-Chairman.
Undoubtedly, the agency’s international network has yielded dividends as exemplified by the recent interception of a consignment of counterfeited anti-malaria drugs worth millions of naira at a Lagos port. Its shippers were apprehended in China by the international police (INTERPOL) and the United States Federal Drug Agency in collaboration with the Indian and Chinese High Commissions. Just recently, another collaborative team comprising operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, NAFDAC, Pharmacist Council of Nigeria as well as the Consumer Protection Council commenced unscheduled inspection of corporate pharmacies in Ikoyi and Victoria Island areas of Lagos State in an operation code named “operation Cobra”. INTERPOL had prior to the commencement of the exercise, organized a two day workshop on capacity building and training for these operatives to adequately prepare them for the operation. The exercise was a joint operation between INTERPOL and seven west African countries including Nigeria at the instance of the World Health Organization’s and INTERPOL. The operation led to the arrest of over 30 suspected fake regulated products merchants. Also inspected were large pharmacies, wholesale outlets as well as warehouses where the agency’s innovative technology, the TRUSCAN machines were deployed in the verification of their wares.
Besides these, NAFDAC is working on a rapid alert technique between Nigeria and collaborating countries to efficiently create a formidable network towards combating the trade in substandard regulated products. As NAFDAC continues its crusade towards sanitizing the nation’s drug distribution system, fake drug merchants and economic saboteurs are warned to desist from molesting the agency’s operatives as well as engaging in the destruction of its facilities.

Source: FRCN daily commentary