The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Category: Press Release

  • Alleged Organ Harvesting: Enugu Police Unravel Actual Circumstances of Viral Video of Two Young Ladies in Hotel 

    Alleged Organ Harvesting: Enugu Police Unravel Actual Circumstances of Viral Video of Two Young Ladies in Hotel 

    The Enugu State Police Command has intercepted a viral video showing two ladies alleged to have been rescued from a hotel room in Enugu, where they were tied up in an attempt to harvest their organs by two young men.

    The Command, therefore, wishes to state that, contrary to the misleading narrative on the incident, preliminary investigation revealed a case of demanding money with menaces and fraud, and not murder or human organs or parts harvesting as being peddled.

    Further revealed is that the ladies, operating as commercial sex workers, made out with the young men on July 3, 2024, in a hotel (names withheld) along Agbani Road, Enugu. They had another appointment the following day and met the suspects in the hotel where the incident occurred.

    At the hotel, the suspects beat and tied up the girls in the hotel’s room toilet after menacingly demanding and obtaining their phones and account details, including their Personal Identification Numbers (PINs). They surreptitiously found their way out of the hotel before the victims were rescued, as seen in the video. They further fraudulently withdrew a cumulative sum of one hundred and twenty thousand (₦120,000.00) from the victims’ accounts.

    Meanwhile, a bag containing two (2) kitchen knives and sportswear the suspects left behind has been recovered, while an intelligence-guided investigation to fish out and bring the fleeing suspects to book is ongoing.

    Consequently, owners and managers of hotels have been advised to exercise the highest standards of security alertness and ensure that lodgers are properly screened, and their verifiable details obtained before being accommodated. Moreover, young ladies have been cautioned against going out with unknown persons, particularly males, under any guise to avoid falling prey to similar criminals and their activities.

    DSP DANIEL NDUKWE, anipr, mnisma
    Police Public Relations Officer,
    Enugu State Command,
    State Headquarters,
    GRA, Enugu.
    July 7, 2024.

  • [FOR THE RECORD] Our Future Is Bright: The Sky is Our Limit – Text Of Inaugural Address Presented By Prof. Jacinta Opara As New Vice Chancellor, Dominican University

    [FOR THE RECORD] Our Future Is Bright: The Sky is Our Limit – Text Of Inaugural Address Presented By Prof. Jacinta Opara As New Vice Chancellor, Dominican University

    The Chairman and Members of Board of Trustees

    The Chairman and Members of Governing Council

    Serving and Former Vice Chancellors

    Principal Officers

    Invited Guests, Staff and Students

    Members of the Press

    Ladies and Gentlemen

    1.0 PREAMBLE

    I am humbled by the presence of all of you who have gathered here today. It is a great privilege and honour for me to address you on my emergence as the 2nd Vice-Chancellor and first female Vice-Chancellor of this university. This is clearly by the special grace of God and to Him be all the glory.

    It is my pleasure to appreciate the Board of Trustees of the university of its powers conferred by Federal Government of Nigeria and the Universities Act considered the submission of the Joint Governing Council, Senate, Search/Selection Team and approved my appointment as Vice Chancellor of the institution. My administration will ever remain grateful and loyal.

    Special thanks to the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the University, Chief Anthony Idigbe(SAN) and all the distinguished members of the Board. I profoundly appreciate the distinguished Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Moji Ladipo, mni, and all the members of the Council for the appointment.

    My predecessor, Professor Anthony Akinwale, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Dokun Oyeshola, OP and his management team are honourably appreciated for the synergy that has helped to move the Institution in empowering the future.

    A big thank you to the whole DUI community for welcoming me into your midst having come from outside. To my fellow academics from other universities, family and friends who are here with us today, and those who are joining us online from different places.

    2.0 INTRODUCTION

    Dominican University, Ibadan(DUI) is the first and only university of the Order of Preachers (Dominican Order) in Africa since its 800 years of existence. The university is accredited and recognized by National Universities Commission in 2016. It has been delivering on the promise made by its founders to foster and promote teaching and research in accordance with authentic intellectual tradition, and to serve the local and world community. The university has positively changed the lives of many through its educational provisions, research, and community participatory activities. There has been commitment to its growth and success, and the collective legacy has delivered to this point.

    As we begin the next move of the DUI journey, it will be my privilege to help build upon that legacy. Though, it is natural to view change of leadership as diminishing progress. But, we must admit and view change of leadership as natural and inevitable. Let us see change of leadership, as an opportunity rather than a threat.

    My Administration’s intention is to exceed the horizon of existing academic programmes, with ability to integrate knowledge, professional skills and intellectual competencies as well as resource management in a co-ordinated program or vision to providing a holistic strategic direction to the Institution by displaying resilience, championing intellectual skills, building critical thinking and constructive reasoning, resourcefulness, responsibility, accountability, transparency and above all integrity and excellence at the University with a view to alleviate dysfunctionalism in intellectual and development management.

    To conduct my work according to the dictates of the rules (policies), timing and budget framework. My academic and professional skills as a VC would be to ensure that the nature, scope and contents of my administration, works, conduct and responsibilities should lay emphasis on innovation, communication, change, sustainability, culture, interdisciplinary skills and teamwork.

    A successful path through the next five years will definitely require the dedicated and committed efforts of every one of us. Therefore, I will rely heavily on our collective wisdom and actions to make DUI a World-Class University. I shall draw inferences from my local and international academic and professional experiences to promote academic excellence. This event today actually reminds me my days as a foreign student and academics, how I felt out of place culturally, linguistically, and academically. Not only did I feel personally cast adrift, this feeling also pervaded my academic experience. But it was through forming connections with others, that I overcame this sense of otherness. The bonds of friendship which we developed during that time, are still strong, and are still so significant to us. By creating and ensuring a positive and inclusive organizational culture and good working environment, we shall all realize a shared vision. “Together we win’

    3.0. VISION

    The vision of the University is to provide high quality education in the humanities, management, science and technology, the Dominican University is unflinching in her commitment to form a new generation of leaders at the service of Nigeria and the global community, leaders who will use the multiple competence acquired in this University to work for their own good by serving the common good. Dominican University has a rich history and a strong foundation of academic excellence, community engagement, and holistic education.

    As we move forward, my vision for our university is to build on these strengths, to innovate, and to expand our horizons. Specifically, I shall pursue my vision as Vice Chancellor through the following:

    • Commitment to establishing cutting edge programmes
    • Commitment to establishing a sustainable network and cooperation of research groups.
    • Conducting my academic activities and research according to the policies and directives of the Governing Council  and Supervising agencies
    • Commitment to streamlining the quality assurance and curricula development Facilitating academic journals, conferences, seminars, workshop and lectures
    • Explore the existing potentials of our University and sister institutions for research on science and technology
    • Recognizing the pertinence of teamwork amongst Management, staff, students and other stakeholders
    • Building networks with international stakeholders and developing a research grant base for external funding and capacity building
    • Ensuring that the programmes of the University are accredited and Council committees serviced
    • Ensuring a positive and inclusive organizational culture and good working environment
    • Fostering judgment and building talents at the Institution amongst staff and students including fostering strong spiritual growth.
    • Projecting the University as visible and coherent in the public debate and explore potentials for partnership in research and development
    • Initiating debates and discussions as driving force that manages change and academic innovation processes, strategic development and sustainability in the University and beyond
    • Contributing towards the enhancement of promotional tools and publicity mechanisms to promote the programs and core values of scholarship
    • To contribute to Senate/Faculty Board meetings and forums and discuss matters as per the agenda.
    • To perform any other duties as may be assigned to me by the Governing Council, my Chancellor, and other relevant constituted authorities.

    4.0. MISSION

    The mission of the university is to assist Nigeria to achieve the greatness her potential warrants by bringing together peoples of ethnic, religious and cultural diversity, into an academic community conducive to research, teaching and learning, to become a driving force for solidarity and authentic development of a new humanity. Our mission remains steadfast: to provide a transformative educational experience that prepares our students to be leaders, thinkers, and problem-solvers in a rapidly changing world. Traditionally, Universities exist to serve three major functions- to teach, to conduct research and engage in community service. DUI has been adhering to global best practices in fulfilling this tripod mandate. However, our universities are being ranked in global league tables which, whatever one thinks of their validity, increasingly have an effect on enrolments.

    5.0 OUR 5-POINT AGENDA

    As a scholar and administrator with an in-depth knowledge, experience and understanding of the private higher education sector in Africa is aimed at making DUI, a World class university and Centre of Excellence. To equip it well in the modern competitive environment and spearhead its strategic growth towards the provision of quality education, research and community engagement based on a 5- point agenda:

    1. Excellence in Learning
    2. Excellence in Teaching
    3. Excellence in Research
    4. Excellence in Innovation
    5. Excellence in Industrialization and Commercialization

    1. Excellence in Learning

    In achieving this, the students at DUI will be:

    The Centre of learning because they are one of the core stakeholders in the university.

    DUI will be committed to high quality teaching that will enhance learning.

    DUI students will have exceptional potential with the talent and determination to succeed.

    The success and well-being of our students are at the heart of our mission. We shall be committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment that fosters personal and academic growth.

    Enhance the student services, including advising, counselling, and career support, to ensure that our students have the resources they need to succeed. Extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and student organizations, will be promoted as essential components of a well-rounded education

    2. Excellence in Teaching

    In achieving this:

    Academic staff will be encouraged to develop themselves through trainings, workshops, seminars and conferences in order to improve themselves in their professional skills. Attending and participating in trainings, workshops, seminars and conferences will help them to meet different people across the globe and share experiences which will make them have more knowledge and skills in their teaching methodologies.

    As an experienced teacher, the academic staff will be encouraged to base their teachings on three domains: affective, cognitive and psychomotor domains. With these domains, their teaching objectives will be achieved, and learning will be enhanced.

    All academic staff will be encouraged to register with the regulatory teaching and professional bodies in the country in order to be accepted as qualified teachers across the globe.

    The core of any university is its academic programs and the quality of education it provides. At Dominican University, we shall strive to enhance our curriculum, ensuring that it remains relevant and rigorous. We will invest in our faculty, supporting their professional development and encouraging research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge. Interdisciplinary studies will be a cornerstone of our academic strategy, promoting collaboration across fields to address complex global challenges.

    3. Excellence in Research

    In achieving this, there will be:

    Research Development: Establishment of three international peer-reviewed journals in our university. Every student and academic staff will be encouraged to do research and publish in impact factored journals. This will help to project DUI to have high visibility in the world, and this will further enable the University to be ranked high as a World class university. Publishing in impact factored journals will help to improve the creative output of the academic staff.

    Exchange programmes/Linkages: Schools/Faculties in the university will be encouraged to establish complementary exchange programmes or linkages with other universities in Nigeria and other countries in order to broaden their knowledge and skills.

    Scholarships/Research Grants: Ensure there are opportunities for students and staff to apply for scholarships and research grants in order to motivate and encourage them in their various disciplines. We shall seek partnerships with industries, government agencies, and international institutions to support and expand our research initiatives.

    Expansion of programmes: Schools/Faculties at DUI shall have opportunities to expand their programmes to accommodate more courses that will attract students not only from Nigeria but Africa and other parts of the world. This will project the university in the global community.

    4. Excellence in Innovation

    In achieving excellence in innovation, we shall:

    Work assiduously to make sure that we produce graduates who are not only employable but ready to be self-employed based on the entrepreneurial skills they acquire while in the University.

    Students will learn in a conducive and friendly environment that will embrace ICT and digitization. This is because we are in the digital age, and we need to move with the age in order to progress

    Utilize expertise, resources, technology and infrastructure that will enable quality learning, teaching and research. More avenues will be sought for to generate more revenue for DUI to engage in innovative projects

    Dominican University will foster a vibrant innovation culture, encouraging faculty and students to pursue innovative projects that have the potential to make a significant impact.

    5. Excellence in Industrialization and Commercialization

    To improve the image and ranking of the University by:

    Partnering with international and local investors: As experienced scholar/consultant who had worked with other international agencies and organizations, we shall ensure DUI collaborate with these organizations in order to remodel the University to be a centre of excellence.

    Community Engagement: Dominican University is an integral part of the Ibadan community, and our relationship with the local community is a vital aspect of our identity. We will strengthen our community engagement efforts, working closely with local organizations, schools, and businesses to create mutually beneficial partnerships.

    Students’ participation: Our students will be encouraged to participate in service- learning opportunities, gaining valuable experience while making a positive difference in the community.

     

    Infrastructure and Resources: To achieve our goals, we will invest in our infrastructure and resources. This includes modernizing our facilities, expanding our library and digital resources, and improving our technological capabilities. We will pursue funding opportunities, both locally and internationally, to support these initiatives. Sustainable practices will be integrated into our campus operations, reflecting our commitment to environmental stewardship.

     

    Inclusiveness: Equity, diversity, and inclusion are fundamental values that will guide our actions and decisions. We will work to create a campus culture that respects and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Our policies and practices will be evaluated and improved to ensure that all members of our community feel valued and supported. We will actively recruit and retain a diverse faculty, staff, and student body, recognizing that diversity enriches the educational experience for everyone.

     

    Global Engagement: In today’s interconnected world, global engagement is more important than ever. Dominican University will seek to expand its international partnerships, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and global learning opportunities. By embracing a global perspective, our students will be prepared to thrive in diverse cultural and professional environments.

    6.0 PROSPECTS FOR ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT

    The Dominican philosophy of education which the University espouses is rooted in the conviction that authentic development is centred on the human person and is the outcome of artistic, technical and ethical competence, research and teaching that bring together valid achievements of the past and the best accomplishments of the present, and recourse to traditional African values that point to ways of overcoming contemporary challenges. This guiding philosophy under my administration is why I am excited about the future of this University.

    We need to play to our strengths, to our natural advantages. The Dominican university is located at the famous city of Ibadan. Ibadan is the ‘melting pot’ of the cultural wealth of the state which accounts for tourist pull, an adventurous experience that is worthwhile. Situated in a mild climate, that is neither too hot nor too cold with conducive social environment for teaching and learning. Accommodation is on the fair side when compared to other big cities in the Southwest. At the heart of the University you have the privilege of seeing the renowned Dominican Chapel, one the 1000 buildings in the world every eye should see (Aljazeera rating).

    The University has positive reputation with the 800-year track record of Dominican involvement in University education in different countries and on different continents. They have founded and staffed various institutions in different countries across the globe, significantly influencing education and promoting social justice and human dignity. Their legacy includes some of the world’s oldest and most respected educational institutions, reflecting their enduring commitment to teaching and scholarly excellence.

    The track record of the Dominican Institute and its facilities out of which the Dominican University has grown is recognized for its commitment to social justice, community service, and fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. It engages in numerous community outreach programs and partnerships that benefit both students and the local community. This track record reflects the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, community service, and continuous improvement, contributing to the robust growth of Dominican University from its origins as the Dominican Institute.

    However, the tension and complexities of our contemporary society cannot be ruled out especially in keeping up with rapid technological advancements and integrating them into the curriculum; dealing with reduced funding and finding alternative revenue sources; combating systemic biases within and outside the institution; incorporating sustainability into the curriculum and research initiatives; building strong connections with communities and industries to enhance students’ enrolment; employability and practical learning opportunities and many more we cannot imagine now. I am obliged to be committed in making the University, be strategic key player and resourceful as a relevant driving force of moving the Nigerian higher education system and research agenda forward in its commitment of creating a State of the Art-a world class centre of excellence. I remain resolute in promoting academic excellence, enhance professional knowledge, research competencies, technical skills, and intellectual capacity required for current and future-challenges in national development, policy analysis, teaching, research and community service for building a sustainable, virile and solid development.

    CONCLUSION

    Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I want to once again express my gratitude to the Board of Trustees, the Governing Council, faculty, staff and the students for entrusting me with the leadership of Dominican University. Together, we will build on the strong foundation that has been laid, and we will strive for excellence in all that we do. The challenges ahead are significant, but so are the opportunities. With dedication, collaboration, and a shared vision, I am confident that Dominican University will continue to grow and flourish, making a lasting impact on our community and the world. Our future is bright and the sky is our limit.

    Thank you, and I look forward to embarking on this exciting journey with all of you.

    Prof. Jacinta A. Opara

    Ibadan-Nigeria

  • FOR THE RECORD: Communiqué Issued By The South East Governors’ Forum At The End Of Their Meeting At The Enugu State Government House

    FOR THE RECORD: Communiqué Issued By The South East Governors’ Forum At The End Of Their Meeting At The Enugu State Government House

    1. The Forum commiserated with Government and people of Abia State, Ebonyi State, Imo State, South East, Nigeria and Chief Ogbonnaya Onu’s Family on the demise of His Excellency, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu.

    2. The Forum received the delegation of the Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo GCFR, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON and His Royal Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe CFR, Obi of Onitsha who came on a solidarity visit to the Forum.

    3. The Forum deliberated on the reviewed report of the South East Security and economic Summit held in Owerri on the 28th September, 2023 and agreed to implement the aspects of the report pertaining to security and economic integration and affirmed its desire to put actionable plans on the key issues agreed.

    4. The Forum resolved to visit Mr. President to discuss pressing issues concerning the South East Region.

    5. The Forum also resolved to interface with the Federal Government to secure the release of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu.

    His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodinma, CON.

    His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR.

    His Excellency, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, CFR.

    His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru

    His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah

  • Enugu State Government Announces Closing Date For Online Verification Exercise 

    Enugu State Government Announces Closing Date For Online Verification Exercise 

    PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

    The committee on verification of workers in Enugu State wishes to notify all staff and pensioners that the closing date for the online verification exercise has been extended to Friday, 28th June 2024. Please note that no further extensions will be granted.

    Every eligible staff member and pensioner under the categories of Enugu State Civil Service, State Parastatals, ESUBEB, Tertiary Institutions, and State Pensioners is required to complete the verification process by visiting the online portal www.enugustate.live. Use your salary or pension bank account number and your verification code for sign-up. This verification code can be obtained from the Office of Head of Service by a designated MDA Payroll Officer. The detailed guideline for the exercise is also available on the website.

    New Deadline: Friday, 28th June 2024

    Required Documents:
    The following documents MUST be uploaded to the website in PDF format during the verification process:
    1. Letter of First Appointment
    2. Proof of Date of Birth
    3. Confirmation of Appointment Letter
    4. Gen. 35 (Notification of most recent promotion)
    5. First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC)
    6. National Identification Card (NIN)
    7. Any other relevant supporting document
    8. For Pensioners, the Pension Form and Pension Authority must be uploaded

    We urge all eligible individuals to complete this exercise promptly to ensure the smooth operation of government services. For any inquiries or assistance, please call the contact phone numbers provided on the website: +234 (0) 704 680 0365 or +234 (0) 902 127 7271.

    Note: The physical verification exercise will commence as soon as the online process is completed on a yet-to-be-announced date.

    Signed
    Prof. Chidiebere Onyia
    Secretary to the State Government
    20th June, 2024

  • Police Confirms 2022 Constable Recruitment Process Marred With Irregularities, Alleged Corruption 

    Police Confirms 2022 Constable Recruitment Process Marred With Irregularities, Alleged Corruption 

    …Calls for Review as Recruitment List Flooded with Non-Applicants

    The Nigeria Police Force has raised alarm on the irregularities and alleged corruption of the recently released names of successful candidates in the ongoing 2022/23 Police Constables Recruitment Exercise.

    This became necessary upon being inundated with a series of complaints and allegations of corruption raised by unsuspecting candidates and stakeholders on the irregularities that marred the exercise most especially the disappearance of the names of screened candidates who were successful to the last stage.

    Upon careful scrutiny of the list released on the PSC portal, it was discovered that:
    i) Several names of persons purported to be names of successful candidates are those who did not even apply and therefore did not take part in the recruitment exercise.
    ii) The published list contains several names of candidates who failed either the Computer Based Test (CBT) or the physical screening exercise or both.
    iii) There are those who made it to the last stage of the exercise but were disqualified having been found Medically unfit through the standardised medical test but who also made the list of successful candidates as published by the PSC.
    vi) Most worrisome is the allegation of financial dealings and corrupt practices leading to the outcome where unqualified and untrainable individuals have been shortlisted.

    The Inspector General of Police had on 10th June 2024 written a letter of objection to the list addressed to the Chairman of the Commission, citing the discoveries listed above. The reaction of the IGP was without prejudice to the power of the Commission to recruit for the police as ruled by the Supreme court but this power does not include the power to recruit unqualified and untrained individuals for the police. Noting that it is the police that bears the brunt of recruitment of unqualified individuals and not the PSC. The same people who recruited anyhow for the police today will turn round to accuse the police tomorrow of inefficiency when their recruits start messing up.

    The Police therefore has since dissociated itself from the published list and called for a review that will be transparent and credible.

    It will be recalled that the leadership of the Police Service Commission, after the pronouncement of the Supreme Court ruling on the powers of the Commission to recruit for the Police, constituted a Joint Recruitment Board, to be headed by one of the Commissioners of the PSC, with the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Training and Development in the Police Force as its Secretary. But surprisingly, the Board was crippled and never allowed to carry out its mandate, insomuch that even the final list was not consented to by the Board.

    The Nigeria Police Force therefore takes exception to this unpleasant development and calls for a total review of the process with a view to recruiting qualified, competent, trainable and productive hands into the Nigeria Police Force, in line with the vision of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led administration on police reform.

    The NPF hereby reiterates that we are not unconcerned about the plights and ordeals of prospective recruits, who have been subjected to all forms of rigorous screening exercise, assuring that it is our commitment to ensure that the process is thoroughly reviewed, stands fruitful and successful for the betterment of the Nigeria Police, and by extension the country.

    ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
    FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
    FOR: INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE

    15th June, 2024

  • Full Text of Speech Delivered By Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State at the Tunisia-Africa Investment and Trade Conference

    Full Text of Speech Delivered By Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State at the Tunisia-Africa Investment and Trade Conference

    PROTOCOLS

    1. Standing on earlier established protocols, may I commend the organizers of this conference for thinking home, for thinking Africa. Particularly, I applaud the President of this great country, Tunisia – His Excellency, Kais Saied for his support and approval to host this event. Thank you, Your Excellency.

    2. I bring you warm greetings from the Government and finest people of Ebonyi State, South East of Nigeria – Salt of the Nation. Ebonyi State is the Salt of the Nation Nigeria for a reason. We are endowed with various natural resources, honest, hardworking and progressive-thinking population. And so, on behalf of my people, it is a great pleasure to participate in this conference. I am convinced that this Afrocentric assemblage of powerful ideas, will drive Africa and Her economy forward to the success stage and attract huge economic benefits for Ebonyi people.

    3. Ebonyi State was created during the commemoration of Nigeria’s 36th Independence Anniversary in October 1996, by the then Head of State – General Sani Abacha. The State has 13 Local Council Areas, 64 Development Centres, and 140 autonomous communities. Ebonyi State is blessed by nature with abundance of solid minerals, spread across the 13 Council Areas. We have salt, limestone, coal, cobalt, bitumen, ore, sand, chippings, onyx, zinc, lead and granite.

    4. We do not only possess these natural endowments; we are as well, proud to have created a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in the State. Ebonyi is safe, beautiful, clean, progressive, untapped, productive, welcoming and thoroughly absorbing. We have legal frameworks to support and protect investors and their businesses in Ebonyi State, especially, the Ebonyi State Investment Promotion, Investors Protection, Concession and Regulatory Commission Law of 2019. I call on you all business people in Africa and around the world, to take advantage of this willingness of our Government to promote and protect direct and foreign investments in the State, and bring your businesses to our land. We have removed unnecessary bureaucracies, tax, and lowered registration requirements to accommodate investor’s interest to increase financial flow into the State and more profits for your investments. All roads and flights should lead to Ebonyi State for business investments.

    5. Talking of roads and flights, we have one of the best road networks in Nigeria – solidly constructed in rigid concrete pavement and smoothened with asphalt. Our international and cargo airport is one of the bests you can find anywhere in the world, with 3.1km runway done in stellar concrete and asphalt. It is known as Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, Ebonyi State. It has beautiful ambience and adorns state-of-the-art facilities.

    6. One way in which Africa can leverage the opportunities afforded by globalization is through interstate integration. This means, greater openness to trade and investment. Ebonyi State has all it takes to advance this framework for improved growth and development of all parties. It is noteworthy that this conference is themed ‘FINANCING INVESTMENT AND TRADE IN AFRICA. Again, I say to you all, Ebonyi State is ready for Investment and Trade.

    7. Ebonyi State under my watch is investing to enhance science, technology and engineering to build a skilled workforce, capable of driving technological innovation. As I speak to you, constructions of our two (2) new institutions – University of ICT Offerekpe in Izzi Local Government and University of Aeronautic Engineering in Ezza are speedily underway. Our passion for education has seen us invest as well in research and development, to drive innovation and adapt global technologies to meet the NEEDS of our PEOPLE. That same passion has led us in approving academic scholarships for 1000 Ebonyi people to advance their education outside and within Nigeria. They are to undertake key courses like Data Analysis and other necessary courses to keep us at par with global trends and development. It is our intention to promote academic and industry collaboration, to ensure that academic research addresses real-world challenges and facilitates technology growth.

    8. i. In terms of industrialization, we have taken bold steps to revitalize our Pipe Production Company. This company has six (6) lines of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) extrusion machines and two (2) lines of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) extrusion machines. The PVC machines produce from 20 to 160 gauges of pipes, while the HDPE machines produce from 20 to 360 gauges of pipes.

    ii. In Agriculture, our Fertilizer and Chemical Company remains the best in terms of production of various types of fertilizers, like NPK 20:10:10, 15:15:15, 27:13:13 and 12:12:17. The revitalization of our poultry farm and construction of feed mill for poultry, piggery and fish farming are on course. Primarily, Ebonyi is an agrarian State with arable farmland. Our rice is the best you can find in Nigeria, because of its rich nutrients. Consequently, we have three (3) rice production industries in each of the three (3) senatorial zones of the State – Iboko, Ikwo and Oso Edda. We equally have the Abakaliki Rice Mill in the State Capital. This is for your kind information, in anticipation of your investment moves into Ebonyi State. Additionally, these industries further strengthen our resolve to develop our agricultural value chains, as this sector remains one of our many strong points for economic prosperity.

    iii. As part of our quest for industrialization and our commitment towards enhancing the aesthetics, quality and conduciveness of our environment for healthy living and development, we have given new vigour to our pulverization plant. To this end, we have procured and installed Ebonyi State Municipal Waste Sorting Plants at Umuoghara Recycling Plant. The sorting machines we procured have been properly installed, while the Recycling Machines have arrived Nigeria and we have taken delivery of these machines. By December 2024, our Pulverization Plant will be working 100 percent. This is in tandem with our Waste-to-Wealth Initiative.

    9. Our policy direction and actions as Government clearly fill the spaces of the essence of this conference – ‘strengthening local transformation and technology transfer for sustainable and inclusive growth in Africa.’ Principally, we are here to chart ways forward on how to meet the NEEDS of Africa. It is important to note, that our mantra in Ebonyi State is anchored on the NEEDs of our PEOPLE. As such, we are proud servants of Ebonyi people, calling on Africa and the world to beam their investment searchlights on Ebonyi State, so as to attain sustainable growth in the State, Nigeria and across Africa at large.

    10. Finally, I commend again, the organizers of this great event, especially President Kais Saied, for supporting this event, and all the participants here, who are united in pursuit of the Africa of our dream.

    Thank you all for your kind attention.

    – #FON

  • Full Text of Democracy Day Speech By Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State

    Full Text of Democracy Day Speech By Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State

    Today is a day set aside to celebrate our nation’s democracy and the associated freedoms we enjoy.

    I am proud to say that the principles of democracy, equality, justice, and the rule of law are strictly respected in Ebonyi State under my watch.

    On this Democracy Day, we honour the struggles of our past leaders who fought tirelessly to establish and sustain our democratic institutions.

    May I extend my profound gratitude to the President Commander- in – chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Assembly Members, my Brother Governors and other leaders who have concentrated their energy and grit towards stabilizing the nation’s democracy.

    I recognize the contributions of our citizens who have worked to build a more just and equitable society and I can assure you their sacrifices in enthroning democratic governance will not be forgotten

    However, I acknowledge the challenges we face and what is certain is that as a government, we recommit ourselves to addressing them.

    Let me assure you that we are committed to working assiduously to build a democracy that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people.

    Thank you, and Happy Democracy Day Celebration.

    Rt. Hon. Bldr. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, FNIOB, GGCEHF
    Governor, Ebonyi State.
    June 12, 2024

  • [FOR THE RECORD] June 12 Full Speech: Our economic reforms’ll ensure opportunity for all —President Bola Tinubu

    [FOR THE RECORD] June 12 Full Speech: Our economic reforms’ll ensure opportunity for all —President Bola Tinubu

    My fellow Nigerians, let me begin by congratulating all of us for witnessing the celebration of another Democracy Day today, the 12th day of June 2024. This year also marks our nation’s 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.

    On this day, 31 years ago, we entered our rites of passage to becoming a true and enduring democratic society.

    Six years of struggle

    Going through this passage was hard and dangerous. During the fateful six years that followed, we fought and struggled for our natural rights as human beings put on this earth by the divine hand of our Creator.

    We lost great heroes and heroines along the way. In this struggle, the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola, the most significant symbol of our democratic struggle, his wife, Kudirat, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and Pa Alfred Rewane, among others sacrificed their very lives.

    They bravely surrendered their futures, so that our nation might have a better one.

    Let us honour the memories of Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Arthur Nwankwo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Chief Frank Kokori, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ganiyu Dawodu, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Olabiyi Durojaiye, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Chima Ubani, and others who have transited to the higher realm.

    Sacrifices of heroes, heroines

    The sacrifices of General Alani Akinrinade, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, Professor Wole Soyinka, Chief Ralph Obioha, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, among many others, should never be forgotten. For at least six years, they bore the pains and difficulties of life in exile.

    While the exiled pro-democracy activists kept the fire burning, their comrades at home sustained the pressure on the military brass hats. Among the latter are Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Abdul Oroh, Senator Shehu Sani, Governor Uba Sani, Chief Olu Falae, and other National Democratic Coalition leaders such as Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Ayo Opadokun.

    The sacrifices they made, and the precious gift brought about by their selfless devotion can never be repaid. Neither shall it be forgotten.

    We could not have won the battle against military dictatorship without the irrepressible Nigerian journalists who mounted the barricades along with the pro-democracy activists. We celebrate them today, along with their media establishments such as The Punch, Guardian, National Concord, Tribune, The News/Tempo, and TELL Magazines. Military authorities proscribed these media establishments and jailed their journalists for standing for free speech and civil liberties.

    Despite the lethal might of the military government, what appeared to be high and unyielding walls of dictatorship came tumbling down. The dismal fortress exists no longer.

    The power of an idea, the power of the people proved more potent than all the guns and munitions, and the threats of the strongmen.

    The nation exited the yoke of military rule in 1999 to become the most populous democracy on African soil, the beacon of democratic self-determination for the black race and one of the largest democracies in the world.

    This change stands as a pivotal moment in human history. From this change, we shall never turn, nor shall the annals of mankind’s progress forget the sublime meaning of this great moment.

    We’ve steadied democracy

    Today, 25 years later, we celebrate the silver anniversary of our journey in democracy.
    We have steadied the course.

    Democracy is neither a foreign nor abstract concept devoid of real-life meaning for us. Neither can we afford to reduce or minimalise it to being nothing but the mere holding of periodic elections where one candidate and party outdo another.

    While elections attract dramatic attention, they are but one aspect of democracy. Democracy is a way of life that encompasses a broad outlook of which elections are but a part. As such, a nation can have elections without being democratic. But a nation cannot be truly democratic without holding elections.

    That we have established a tradition of holding transparent, open, and fair elections gives credence to our democratic bearing. That we have experienced peaceful transitions of government affirms our democratic temperament.

    Fellow Nigerians, true democracy shines its light into the daily lives of the people who live under its nurturing wings. It affords us the freedom and liberty to think as we want, live where we want and pursue whatever legitimate endeavour that suits us.

    Democracy does not assume some false or forced unity of opinion. In fact, democracy assumes that conflicting ideas and differing opinions shall be the order of the day. Given the diversity and variety of the human experience, there must be diverse perspectives and viewpoints.

    What democracy demands is that we do not resolve differences through force and repression. But we make allowance for the legitimacy of views that differ from our own.

    Where other forms of government impose against the will of the people, democracy aims to make leaders sufficiently humble that they conduct themselves as servants of the common good, not as viceroys of the narrow interests of the mighty.

    My dear compatriots, Nigeria faced a decision of untold gravity twenty-five years ago: Whether to veer toward a better destination or continue aimlessly in the fog of dictatorship.

    We made the right choice then. We must continue with that choice now.

    As Nigerians, we must remind ourselves that no matter how complicated democracy may be, it is the best form of governance in the long run. We must also be aware that there are those among us who will try to exploit current challenges to undermine, if not destroy, this democracy for which so much has already been given.

    These people do this not to make things better but to subject all other people and things to their control and dominance until the point that, if you are not counted among their elite, then your life will be small and no longer owned by you.

    This is the great battle of our day and the major reason we specially celebrate this Democracy day.
    Fellow Nigerians, our Democracy is more than a historic fact. It is a living, breathing reality.
    The true meaning of this day is not to focus solely on the great deeds of the past that have brought us to this point.

    Yes, we pay eternal honour to those who laid down their lives, sacrificing everything to pave the way for the nation.

    I stand uniquely placed in this regard. I was among those who took the risk to midwife the birth of our democracy. I am now a direct and obvious beneficiary of the fruits of those historic efforts.

    I’ll protect Nigerians’ rights, freedoms

    As president of this nation, I am morally and constitutionally bound to preserve this precious form of governance. I vow to do my utmost best to protect your rights, freedoms, and liberties as citizens of Nigeria.

    Even more than that, I pledge to do whatever is necessary to cement democracy as our way of life.
    Although the challenges are steep and multiple, I am grateful to lead Nigeria at this moment in her history and point in her democratic journey.

    I come before you also to declare that our most important work remains before us. This real test has never been whether we would rise to challenge the slings of misfortune and grievous pain of dictatorship.

    The real test is whether we shall lower our guards as the shadow of despotism and its evident physical danger fade.

    I say to you here and now that as we celebrate the enshrinement of our political democracy, let us commit ourselves to the fulfilment of its equally important counterpart, the realisation of our economic democracy.

    I understand the economic difficulties we face as a nation.

    Our economy has been in desperate need of reform for decades. It has been unbalanced because it was built on the flawed foundation of over-reliance on revenues from the exploitation of oil.

    The reforms we have initiated are intended to create a stronger, better foundation for future growth. There is no doubt the reforms have occasioned hardship. Yet, they are necessary repairs required to fix the economy over the long run so that everyone has access to economic opportunity, fair pay and compensation for his endeavour and labour.

    As we continue to reform the economy, I shall always listen to the people and will never turn my back on you.

    In this spirit, we have negotiated in good faith and with open arms with organized labour on a new national minimum wage. We shall soon send an executive bill to the National Assembly to enshrine what has been agreed upon as part of our law for the next five years or less.

    In the face of labour’s call for a national strike, we did not seek to oppress or crack down on the workers as a dictatorial government would have done. We chose the path of cooperation over conflict.
    No one was arrested or threatened. Instead, the labour leadership was invited to break bread and negotiate toward a good-faith resolution.

    Reasoned discussion and principled compromise are hallmarks of democracy. These themes shall continue to animate my policies and interaction with the constituent parts of our political economy.
    I take on this vital task without fear or favour and I commit myself to this work until we have built a Nigeria where no man is oppressed.

    In the end, our national greatness will not be achieved by travelling the easy road. It can only be achieved by taking the right one.

    The words of the American President Franklin Roosevelt certainly ring true: “There are many ways of going forward. But only one way of standing still.”

    We dare not slumber

    We dare not slumber lest the good things awaiting our immediate future pass us by. We dare not plant our feet in idle standstill in the middle of the intersection of hope and despair.

    We know the proper way forward and we shall take it.

    The initial rays of a brighter tomorrow now appear on the early horizon. An abundant future and our capacity to achieve that future lie within our reach. Democracy and the institutions it begets offer to take us to our profound destination.

    Let us board this progressive train together. Together, let us move Nigeria forward.
    Let’s continue to keep the fire of democracy burning. Let’s keep the torch lit for generations to come.

    May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and preserve our democracy.
    I wish us all Happy Democracy Day.

    •Being text of President Bola Tinubu’s National Broadcast on the 25th Anniversary of Unbroken Democracy In Nigeria, Democracy Day, June 12, 2024.

  • [PRESS STATEMENT] Ohaneze Spokesman Draws Public Attention to Threat to His Life by Unknown Persons

    [PRESS STATEMENT] Ohaneze Spokesman Draws Public Attention to Threat to His Life by Unknown Persons

    OHANAEZE NDIGBO PRESS RELEASE

    Since four days ago, my phone has been inundated with phone calls by unknown persons alleging that I want to kill Mr. Simon Ekpa; and that they will kill me first, before I kill their leader, Mr. Ekpa.

    Of course, that I can or will kill Ekpa is the most ridiculous, malicious, mischievous and satanic of all the statements in this world. It is a common knowledge that I don’t have the capacity to kill. I am neither trained as a soldier nor as a police officer or in any paramilitary organization with a duty to respond to threats to life and property. At my age, I cannot even kill a fly, talk more of a global Leviathan in the person of Mr. Simon Ekpa.

    In my duty as the spokesman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, I cannot shirk in my duty to stand by the core Igbo interests and Ohanaeze position on any national issue. Undoubtedly, I expressed the view that the Igbo have become uncomfortable with the sit-at-home syndrome in the South East of Nigeria; and that the persistent sit at home has caused the Igbo more harm than good. I also absolved the leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo on the lingering sit at home in the South East, indicating that Ohanaeze is a persuasive and not a coercive organization, thus does not have the capacity to stop the sit at home. I added that if the federal government feels that the security of Nigeria is being threatened by anybody or a group, it is the duty of the government and not Ohanaeze to take the necessary action. I emphasized that Ohanaeze Ndigbo has appealed to our son, Mr. Ekpa to come home for a dialogue and that we will continue to appeal for peace in the South East. This is the Ohanaeze position and indeed that of the Igbo Leaders.

    Let it be known that in spite of the threat to my life and indeed every other patriotic Igbo leader, the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide led by Chief Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Iwuanyanwu, CFR, OFR, MFR, GCSI, FNSE, FNIST, FNICE, KSC (Ahaejiagamba Ndigbo) will continue to remind the Igbo youths that it is a contradiction to face the barrel of the gun inwards. The primary duty of a freedom fighter is to defend and protect his people, and not the contrary. It is inconceivable how the destruction of Igbo economy through the intermittent sit at home syndrome will resonate with the central philosophy and aspirations of the Igbo in the present Nigeria.

    Finally, I wish to assure our son, Mr. Simon Ekpa, that Ohanaeze Ndigbo is interested in his well-being, and cannot contemplate nor be a party to neutralizing or killing him. The mischief makers are once again at work. There is no record where an officer of Ohanaeze has ever killed or taken part in a conspiracy to kill an Igbo or any person for that matter. Part of our duty, as leaders, is to appeal to our sons of all persuasions that we can work together in the interest of the Igbo.

    E-Sign.

    Dr. Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia; the National Publicity Secretary, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide

  • POLICE RECRUITMENT: No Date For Training Yet As PSC, NPF Still Working Out Details – PSC

    POLICE RECRUITMENT: No Date For Training Yet As PSC, NPF Still Working Out Details – PSC

    PRESS RELEASE

    The Police Service Commission wishes to state that no date has been fixed for training for the recently shortlisted candidates for recruitment into the Constable cadre of the Nigeria Police Force.

    The Commission also wishes to confirm that all the dates being bandied around in the social media are fictitious and should be ignored.

    The Commission has been inundated by calls and messages by concerned Nigerians on the authenticity of the dates in the public space.

    The Commission is currently working with the Nigeria Police Force to determine the training colleges and will make a formal announcement at the appropriate time.

    Successful candidates are requested to wait for the official announcement of the date and the colleges for the exercise.

    Ikechukwu Ani
    Head, Press and Public Relations
    Monday, June 10th 2024

  • [PRESS RELEASE] PSC Releases List of 10,000 Successful Candidates for Police Recruitment

    [PRESS RELEASE] PSC Releases List of 10,000 Successful Candidates for Police Recruitment

    …says merit, gender sensitivity and federal character were guiding principles

    The Police Service Commission has approved and released the list of 10,000 successful applicants for recruitment into the Constable cadre of the Nigeria Police Force.

    The Commission, Tuesday, June 4th, 2024 received the report of the Police Recruitment Board. 9,000 applicants were approved for recruitment for General Duty while 1,000 applicants were recruited for the Specialists cadre.

    To ensure fairness and justice in the Recruitment process, the Commission worked with guidance from relevant stakeholders including the Nigeria Police Force, the National Assembly and the Federal Character Commission. It ensured equity in the spread of successful candidates across the 774 local government areas of the country.

    The Commission had earlier inaugurated a Recruitment Board – a broad-based stakeholders body populated by representatives from the Commission, the Nigeria Police Force, the Ministry of Police Affairs, Federal Character Commission, Police Colleges and the Police Trust Fund to Superintendent over the recruitment process and report back to the Commission.

    Interested Nigerian youths were invited to apply online for consideration for the subsequent stages of the exercise through paid advertisements in several national media. Interested applicants were given six weeks to conclude the online applications (15th October to 26th November 2023) in line with the Federal Character requirements. A total of 609,886 applications were received while 416,323 applicants who met the advertised requirements were shortlisted for the second stage of the exercise which was physical and document screening. This stage held in the 36 states of the Federation and Federal Capital Territory between Monday, 8th to Monday 29th January 2024.

    The Commission, after the physical and credentials screening, shortlisted 171,956 applicants who met the requirements for the Computer Based Tests (CBT) conducted by the Joint Admission and Martriculation Board, JAMB an organisation renowed for its expertise in Computer based tests.

    15,447 General duty applicants who did well in the CBT were further invited for medical screening to determine their health status. The 55,645 Specialists who were shortlisted from the Physical and credentials screening were subjected to practical tests and later medical screening. Each stage of the Recruitment process was carried out with a high level of scrutiny and care .

    A total of 10000 applicants made up of 9000 General Duty and 1000 Specialists were recommended for final selection.

    The selection of specialists were done in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force on the need assessment ensuring capability and balance of geographical representation.

    Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Solomon Arase CFR, retired Inspector General of Police declared that the rigorous recruitment process was to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force and to reinforce its commitment to community rooted and service oriented policing.

    According to him ” I am filled with optimism because these young men and women represent the future of our nation’s security and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that their journey begins on a foundation of integrity, transparency and excellence.

    The PSC Chairman disclosed that the entire process reflects a deliberate effort to build a Police Force that is competent, reliable and truly representative of the best that Nigeria has to offer.

    He noted that the final selection process was meticulously structured to ensure fairness and inclusivity with 10 candidates selected from each of the 774 local government areas as advised by the National Assembly in its Plenary decision of Thursday February 29th 2024 aimed at creating a representative and diverse Police Force.

    The PSC Chairman. disclosed that to uphold the highest standards of confidentiality , “list of successful candidates must be presented to the public in a manner compliant with the Nigeria Data protection Act of 2023″. This he noted will ensure that the personal data of the Recruits who are entering a sensitive security Organisation, remain secure, thereby protecting their personal and family safety”.

    Candidates are invited to check the status of their application through the Police Service Commission dedicated Web page which can be accessed on computers and mobile devices on www.policeservicecommission.cloud
    Applicants are also to contact the PSC recruitment help desk on WhatsApp numbers 08094767777 and 09031318499 for complaints or inquiries.

    Ikechukwu Ani
    Head, Press and Public Relations
    Tuesday, June 4th, 2024

  • [PRESS STATEMENT] NBA Election: NBA President Disclaims Unauthorised Polls By “NBA DECIDES”

    Distinguished Colleagues,

    My attention has been drawn to a notice issued by a group that calls itself “NBA Decides” announcing the conduct of an election poll in respect of our forthcoming NBA elections. May I inform all our members that the NBA is not conducting any such polls, neither has it given mandate to any group or persons to do so in its name or on its behalf.

    The Nigerian Bar Association has, pursuant to Section 10 of the Constitution of the NBA, 2015 (as amended in 2021), empanelled the Electoral Committee of the NBA (ECNBA), which is charged with the responsibility of conducting elections into the national offices of the Association and the election of the representatives of the Association in the General Council of the Bar. All ancillary associated process relating to the said elections are under the watch of the ECNBA as constituted. Therefore, any entity representing itself as “NBA Decides” does not represent the NBA, neither does it have the authority to use the name and brand of the NBA to pass-off its activities under any guise as NBA.

    Consequently, we issue this disclaimer against the entity and persons representing themselves as “NBA Decides”, and state as follows:

    1. The NBA logo, mark, and brand is a registered trademark of the Nigerian Bar Association and can only be lawfully used by the Association, its lawfully recognized units, and any expressly authorised user. The organizers of what is called “NBA Decides” are not authorised to usurp the name and tag of NBA for promoting any activity or poll not authorized by the NBA

    2. The organisers of “NBA Decides” are hereby warned to cease and desist from the use of the name of NBA or the Nigerian Bar Association in the promotion or representation of their advertised polls allegedly scheduled for 12th, 14th, and 16th June 2024 for various positions of the NBA National Executive Committee.

    3. The promoters of the said “NBA Decides” polls are hereby warned that any use of NBA resources, including its Database of Voters (now published by the ECNBA for verification), membership data, etc, for its proposed polls shall be treated as a criminal theft of our data and an unauthorised use of protected privacy details, for which the said organizers shall be duly prosecuted.

    4. Finally, where the organisers or promoters of the unauthorized “NBA Decides” are members of the legal profession, they are hereby warned that their action in this regard, in addition to being criminal in nature, will be treated as professional misconduct and liable to be reported to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).

    The NBA and its members have given their mandate over the 2024 elections to the ECNBA, and we have

    absolute confidence in the ECNBA in its execution of its constitutional task.

    Yakubu Chonoko Maikyau, OON, SAN