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Maiduguri Flood: Dangote Donates N1.5 Billion To Victims

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  Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Aliko Dangote Group, has donated N1.5 billion to support the victims of the flood disaster in Maiduguri. He made the announcement during an assessment visit to some of the affected locations in Maiduguri.Accompanied by Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa state, Dangote said out the amount, N1 billion was given to National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to work with the Borno State government. “I just want to clarify, we have this flood committee. NEMA wrote us a letter; so we sat down and approved N1 billion to NEMA to work with the Borno State government. On top of that, the Aliko Dangote Foundation will put additional N500 millions so that’s #1.5 billion. Thank you,” he said. Earlier, Gov Sule also announced the donation of unspecified number of trucks of relief materials to support the Borno state government. Responding, Governor Babagana Zulum praised them for generosity and love towards the people of Borno. “Not everyone that has money has the heart of giving, Aliko Dangote has been helping our people, this is not first time. I pray that Allah will reward you with Aljannah.” “I would like to thank my brother, Gov Abdullahi Sule, who came along with Aliko Dangote to visit us at this trying moment.”

Oyo State Government Commits to Advancing Nursing Education

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  By Adeleke Maria  Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to improving nursing education within the state. Speaking through his Deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, during a meeting with the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria’s Accreditation Team on Thursday, Governor Makinde emphasized that education is a core component of his administration’s Sustainable Development Agenda. Governor Makinde highlighted the importance of nursing education, noting its global recognition and the need for a robust training foundation to produce skilled professionals in the health sector. He assured that his government will invest in infrastructure, resources, and personnel to elevate nursing education standards across health-related schools in Oyo State. Additionally, the governor revealed plans to establish a College of Nursing Sciences with multiple campuses to further support the sector. Dr. Farouk Abubarka, Chief Registrar and CEO of the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria, acknowledged the quality of Nigerian nurses and praised the Governor’s administration for its commitment to enhancing health and education services. He called for ongoing efforts to maintain high standards in nursing education across the country. The event had in attendance the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Salihu Adelabu; Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Biodun Aikomo, and Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetumobi. Others were the Provost, College of Nursing Sciences, Dr Gbonjubola Owolabi and the Provost, College of Health Science and Technology, Dr Oluyemisi Oyewo, among others.

Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Assembly and Filmmakers Commit to Ending Negative Depictions

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  Stakeholders in the preservation of Yoruba culture tradition and religion have emphasized the importance of accurate cultural and religious representation in the media and encouraged filmmakers to protect the integrity of indigenous heritage in the their works. This was made known at a one-day interactive session with critical stakeholders in the movie industry, organised by the Isese Welfare Association, popularly called ‘Isese Assembly’ which held at Onasode Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan on Thursday. Whole speaking at the event, the Araba Awo of Osogbo, High Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon said the collaboration was aimed at countering misrepresentation and denigration of the traditional belief system. According to him, “this symposium is part of a strategic effort to preserve and promote traditional culture, spirituality, Heritage, and religion through cinema and theatrical arts. “We brought together key players from the film industry such as, actors, directors, scriptwriters, and content creators in other to address the contemporary challenges facing the traditional belief system, known as Isese.” Elebuibon stressed that the initiative reflected a broader effort to ensure traditional culture and religion are preserved amidst modern media influence. He added that, the synergy between Isese Assembly and the film industry is a vital step in ensuring that Isese religious practices are preserved for future generations, using the powerful medium of film to educate and inspire both local and international audiences. In his opening remarks, the founder and National Coordinator of Isese Welfare Association, Barrister Aderemi Ifaolepin Aderemi stated that the goal of the interactive session was to establish a sustainable platform between filmmakers and Isese Assembly to preserve and promote cultural traditions and the indigenous region. He said the initiative reflected a broader concern about the global portrayal of indigenous Yorùbá religion and the erosion of traditional values through misrepresentation in mainstream media. Ifaolepin stressed that the misconceptions about Isese have been so much and the role filmmakers are playing in this has been affecting the Isese adherents, as many people wrongly believe whatever they see in the movies as the truth, which is relegating what he called the most cherished African indigenous religion. “IWA is particularly concerned with the portrayal of cultural traditions and Ìṣẹ̀ṣe religion in films and media, as misrepresentations can lead to the distortion of cultural and religious practices. “They are not seeing it from the aspect of religion, they see is as culture, Isese is a religion of Yoruba people and it is now been practiced all over the world. “We believe that by working closely with filmmakers, they can ensure that Yoruba culture is not only protected but also revitalized, with its rich heritage, spirituality, and religion showcased authentically and with respect,” he added. Oluwo Ifaolepin maintained that the partnership could lead to innovative storytelling, that would highlight the depth and beauty of Yoruba religion and traditions, while also countering stereotypes and misinformation. He said this will ensure that Yoruba customs, including divination practices, spirituality, and religious beliefs are accurately represented on screen.

Olayinka Segelu Announces 2027 Oyo Governorship Bid, Vows to Build on Makinde’s Successes

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  By Adeleke Maria      Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji (Segelu), the son of the murdered House of Representatives member Chief Akintola Oladimeji (Segelu), has announced his plan to run for governor of Oyo State in the 2027 general elections as a candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The young and vibrant Olayinka Segelu revealed his plans during a media parley at his Monatan home in Ibadan on Wednesday. He disclosed that his political career is not a matter of chance but is driven by the legacy of his late father, with the goal of making a significant impact on the community. Hon. Segelu, who said that his mission is to consolidate on the achievements recorded by the present administration in the state under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, appreciated the governor for creating an enabling environment for the youth to play an active role in the political setting of the state. The former Personal Assistant to the Speaker, Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dimeji Bankole, described the governor as a man of honour whose style of leadership is worthy of emulation, having demonstrated a strong belief in the ability of youth to lead the state come 2027 with the age limit set for his successor. Hon. Olayinka disclosed that the age limit, his commitment to the party, (PDP) coupled with his political experience as an appointee in the National Assembly, as well as his international connections and exposure have positioned him as the most qualified person to succeed Governor Seyi Makinde in 2027. The youthful Segelu, who is a graduate of Political Science and International Relations, said that his government will prioritize agriculture, infrastructure, economic advancement, health, social welfare, transportation, and human capacity development, which are all in line with the agenda of the present administration in the state. “My life has been shaped by profound experiences, including the loss of my father—a man who dedicated his life to serving our people. His legacy inspires me to follow in his footsteps and make a meaningful impact in our communities. “I may not be the wealthiest or the most experienced candidate, but my youth and determination equip me to tackle the challenges ahead. I am committed to building upon the foundation laid by the current administration under our leader, Engr. Seyi Makinde. “With my educational background in political science and diverse professional experience in sectors like ICT, engineering, and agriculture, I am uniquely positioned to lead Oyo State into a new era of prosperity. “My time as a political appointee in the National Assembly, Abuja has provided me with invaluable insights, fueling my passion for effective governance. “My vision for Oyo State is a mission—to prioritize agriculture, infrastructure, economic advancement, health, social welfare, transportation, and human capacity development. I aim to establish robust institutions that empower our people and foster independence from federal allocations. “Security of life and property and social welfare are very important and will be key parts of my agenda. This is because what they did to my father I will not allow such to happen to other people under my watch. You will notice that when we were facing security challenges in Oyo State and in the entire South West, our governors came together and established Amotekun and this has been helping us in the fight against insecurity. In Oyo State, we will continue on the trend, we will consolidate on the efforts of the government of Engr. Seyi Makinde to ensure that our people continue to enjoy peace in the state. “In terms of economic prosperity, one major area that I will concentrate on is agriculture, which Governor Seyi Makinde has performed wonderfully. One of the achievements is Fasola Farm, we will also consolidate on that to ensure food security in the state.” Ho. Olayinka Segelu called for the support of the youth, women, leaders, members of the Peoples Democratic Party and the media practitioners to support his ambition. “As we embark on this journey together, I want to emphasize the importance of unity, purpose, and transformation for our beloved Oyo State. “Let’s build a narrative of hope, empowerment, and progress together. I look forward to collaborating with each of you as we strive for a better tomorrow for our people,” Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu said.

2024 Flood Crisis: Death Toll reaches 259,625,239, Displaced Across 29 States, Reports NEMA

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  ABUJA – The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has disclosed that the current trend of flooding across the country has indicated that 29 States and 172 LGAs have been impacted by flooding, affecting 1,048,312 people, displaced 625,239 and have led to the death of 259 lives. The Director General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar who stated this on Thursday in Abuja during national emergency coordination forum meeting in Abuja stressed that the current challenge with Borno on the searchlight currently require coordinated response. “The current trend of flooding indicated that 29 States and 172 LGAs have been impacted by flooding, affecting 1,048,312 people, displaced 625,239 and have led to the death of 259 lives. This unfortunate and almost unexpected incident requires coordinated response, hence the call for this emergency meeting. “As you may all be aware, flood has ravaged many parts of the country with devastating impact in some locations. The latest of which is that of Borno State, where Search and Rescue is currently being carried out by emergency workers,” she said. She however maintained that flood predictions across Nigeria for this year had earlier been disseminated to various stakeholders by NEMA and other agencies of government saddled with this responsibility. “Though the flooding may not be totally prevented, efforts are being made to mitigate the impact to the barest minimum. “This occurrence is not in total deviation from the predictions as contained in this year’s Annual Flood Outlook released by NIHSA which informed that in the months of July to September, 2024, 33 States and 135 LGAs are within flood high-risk areas, while the period between October and November has 19 States and 44 LGAs. “The Federal Government through NEMA commiserates with those that have been affected by the flood disaster and assures them that necessary succour will be provided accordingly. The main reasons for conveying this meeting therefore are to receive update on the flood situation and to assign roles and responsibilities to all stakeholders to ensure we are all on the same page.” She said that as part of on-going efforts, Internally Displaced Persons camps have been activated in some states;” additional staff have been deployed to support Search and Rescue operations; water purification and critical Search and Rescue equipment have been deployed to affected states; while food and non food items are also being provided to support the affected persons. “To complement these efforts, plans are underway to: provide additional relief intervention including medical consumables and medicaments; deploy additional water purifiers; support States to evacuate people at risk; provide additional support to Naval Disaster Response Units; provide additional support for sectoral response; relocate and rehabilitate the displaced population and to carry out in- depth Damage and Loss assessment among others.” While appreciating the support of international partners, the NEMA DG noted that the situation is not yet overwhelming for the Government of Nigeria to cope with. “We however encourage partners to continue to carry out their routine assistance to affected people while still monitoring the situation. Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, let us utilize this opportunity to further deliberate on efforts to ameliorate the suffering of affected people and also to stem the trend of the disaster across the country.”   Independent NG

Oyo Assembly Enacts Amendment Bill for College of Nursing and Midwifery

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  The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed the State College of Nursing and Midwifery further­ Amendment bill into law. The bill was passed on Thursday at the resumed plenary of the Oyo State House of Assembly after a two month recess. It scaled third reading following the presentation of the report of the joint Committees on Health, Nutrition and Food Security and Education (Tertiary) Institutions, Science and Technology read by Hon. Rilwan Gbadamosi Saminu representing Saki East and Atisbo State Constituency. With this amendment, the name of the College has changed from Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery to Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences. In a chat with newsmen, Hon. Rilwan Gbadamosi Saminu said the amendment was aimed equally at expanding the scope of the College to allow its graduates to go for the mandatory one year National Youth Service Corps program. According to him, It Is also to give constitutional backing to the creation of satellite campuses for the College, among other amendments.

OYSPHCB Recruitment: About 16,000 Candidates Commence CBT Exam

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  By Adeleke Maria  The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board (OYSPHCB) has begun recruitment exercise with a two-day Computer-Based examination for candidates who applied for various positions. While monitoring the exercise at the University of Ibadan Distant Learning Center, Ajibode, Ibadan, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi explained that the ongoing recruitment exercise is significant as it will help to bridge the human resource gap that the primary health sector is facing. The Commissioner explained that 16,000 applicants put in for the exercise,adding that Governor Seyi Makinde approved 30% of the recruitment for the first batch, while subsequent exercises will take care of the remaining batches. According to her, the recruitment exercise will take care of the different categories of workers that are needed at the Primary Health Care Centers such as Community Health Extension Workers, Pharmacy Technicians, Community Health Workers, Medical Officers of Health, among others. “Their recruitment will further promote quality healthcare delivery in Oyo State. In his remarks, the Chairman, Oyo State House Committee on Health, Hon. Saminu Badamosi applauded Governor Seyi Makinde for approving the recruitment exercise,demonstrating his commitment and priority to the health sector of the State. The Executive Secretary, Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muyideen Babatunde Olatunji explained that the Minimum Service Package (MSP) Document which was prepared by the Board revealed a huge gap in the human resource aspect, which prompted the Governor to approve the recruitment exercise. He maintained that the present administration has renovated about 264 PHCs across the State, which are fully equipped, hence “people to be employed now are the ones to work at the various Health Centres”. He added that this will afford people access to qualitative healthcare delivery across the State. Dr. Muyideen reiterated that the candidates writing the examination now are those who applied since 2021 and the CBT exam, which will last for 2 days, is the first step, after which it will be followed by an oral interview.  

PDP Chieftain Benedict Akika Freed After Six Days of Abduction

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  Benedict Akika, a prominent leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State and a close associate of Governor Seyi Makinde, has been released from captivity. Akika, who founded the Omituntun Benedict Foundation, was kidnapped from his Ibadan home six days ago by armed men. While the specifics of his release and whether a ransom was involved remain undisclosed, Akika is now receiving medical care following his return.

Maiduguri Flood ,Sweeps Out Animal In The Zoo

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  Residents near Sanda Kyarimi Zoo in Maiduguri, Borno State, are grappling with confusion and fear as flooding has led to the escape of several animals from the zoo. Among the escaped animals are an ostrich and a crocodile, with concerns that others, including elephants, lions, and snakes, might soon follow. The escaped crocodile was found dead after being attacked by an unidentified individual, while the ostrich remains at large. Ayuba Peter, Director of Forest and Wildlife, confirmed the zoo manager has been informed and noted that efforts are underway to secure the area. Roads around the zoo have been blocked to restrict human movement, and wildlife staff are actively patrolling to recapture the escaped animals, particularly the dangerous carnivores.A source within the zoo reported that approximately 80 percent of the zoo’s animals, especially the carnivores, have died or been washed away due to the flooding. The situation is part of a broader disaster caused by the collapse of Alau Dam, which has submerged many areas in Maiduguri.Ali Abatcha, General Manager of Borno State Museum Park, indicated that the flood has caused significant damage, including the loss of more than 80 percent of the zoo’s animals. He warned residents to be cautious as some dangerous animals, like snakes and crocodiles, have been washed into nearby communities. In response, Usman Tar, Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, has urged residents in affected areas to evacuate immediately and follow designated routes for safety. He emphasized the urgency of the situation due to the unusually high volume of water this year, which has disrupted farms and is threatening riverbank communities. The state government has also announced a two-week delay in the resumption of schools, now scheduled to begin on September 23, 2024, due to the ongoing flooding and the threat posed by escaped wildlife.   NAN

Fuel Scarcity Crisis Claims Life of Local Government Chairman in Nigeria

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  The fuel scarcity crisis in Nigeria has resulted in the tragic death of Oluwatuyi Olasoji, chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for Akure South Local Government. Olasoji collapsed while waiting to purchase fuel at a filling station in Akure, Ondo State, last week. Despite being rushed to the Federal Medical Center in Owo for emergency surgery, he succumbed to his condition on Monday, September 9. The fuel shortage has led to severe nationwide disruptions, with long queues at petrol stations, skyrocketing transport fares, and worsening traffic conditions leaving many commuters stranded. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has acknowledged the crisis, attributing it to market deregulation and fluctuating exchange rates. They have promised improvements as the Dangote Refinery is expected to begin fuel lifting in mid-September.

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