The Lumine News

Category: Metro News

  • C’River Deputy Governor Receives Egbe-Mbube Progressive Union Calabar Branch

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State,Rt. Hon. Peter Odey today, the 11th of October, 2023 received in audience the Egbe Mbube Progressive Union, Calabar Branch in his office.

    Speaking during the visit, Rt. Hon. Odey expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the visit while extending to the group an invitation to his residence to enable them interface on issues bothering the community in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Concerning the issues raised by the group such as the abandoned clinic and dilapidated primary school in their region, Odey gave them assurance that the contractors handling the health facility will be contacted to complete the project and that the school will be renovated.

    Earlier, the chairman of the union, Dr. Sunny Ogon said the union has deemed it necessary to come and rejoice with him as their brother over his victory at the polls and to present a few challenges they are faced with back home. Ogon cited the clinic and the primary school in Egbe Mbube which had been abandoned and rapidly dilapidating respectively. He also be reported that the secondary school was understaffed.

    Also present during the visit were Chief Dr. Akpeh Edung, a retired permanent secretary, Professor Jonas Akung, Mr. Thomas Atem a retired director and others who felicitated Rt. Hon. Odey while reiterating the needs of the community and the call for more women inclusion in the scheme of things.

    Highlights of the visit included a presentation of a portrait to the Deputy Governor.

  • Institute of Health Sciences, Research And Administration of Nigeria Awards 4 Honorary Doctorate degrees, Inducts 26 Distinguished Fellows

     

    The Institute of Health Sciences, Research And Administration of Nigeria has inducted 30 Fellows into its fold.

    The induction ceremony which held on the 7th October, 2023 at JOENAGI College of Health Science, Obudu witnessed unprecedented attendance at the event.

    Declaring the event opened, the President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Celcus Akomaye welcomed guests and thanked the management of JOENAGI College of Health Science Obudu for granting the approval to use the venue.

    Mr Akomaye said “I would like to thank the Management and Staff of Joeagi College of Health Science Obudu for granting us the approval to use its facilities for this event.

    “Our mission is clear, through our unique programs and platforms, we are dedicated to producing distinguished and innovative multi-skilled professionals. We seek to admit individuals and organizations with proven track records in healthcare, research, administration, and leadership, providing them with educational and professional training/certification.

    “By establishing linkages with a diverse group of professionals and captains of industries, we create openings for business and partnership opportunities for our members. We aim to project and position our members at the center of the global context, facilitating researchers to solve pending problems and make a significant impact on society.
    Our members are the backbone of our institute. They are distinguished healthcare promoters, educators, researchers, managers, administrators, leaders, executives, specialists, business experts, spokespersons, practitioners, consultants, entrepreneurs, politicians, ambassadors, coaches, and excellently proven skilled leaders with global recognition. We are proud to have assembled such a talented and diverse group of individuals who are committed to advancing the fields of health science, research/ education, management, and administration.

    “In addition to membership, the Institute of Health Science, Research, and Administration also offers accredited programs leading to the award of recognized professional and academic certificates, diplomas, and degrees. Through partnerships with both local and international recognized/accredited institutions, we ensure that our programs are flexible, stable, qualitative, and cost considerate, allowing professionals to further their education while maintaining their work commitments.

    “As a professional body, we are dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and the practice of professions. We aim to develop, support, regulate, and promote professional standards for technical and ethical competence. Our focus is not only on the benefit of our professionals, but also on the greater public good. We understand the importance of maintaining a strong reputation for our profession and strive to uphold the highest levels of excellence in all that we do.

    “Today, as we gather here to celebrate the induction and investiture ceremony, we embark on a new chapter in the history of our institute. With the support of our members and stakeholders, we will continue to strive for excellence and make a lasting impact on the fields of health science, research, management, and administration.”

    On his part the keynote speaker, the Director of Education and Training, Dr Ntamu Ekahe-Joseph Abua, stressed on the need for resilience in entrepreneurship and adaptability in today’s rapidly changing world.

    He charged the public to imbibe higher work standard and diversify into other areas as a measure to ameliorate the already bastardized situation in our economy.

    A profile of the Inductees and Awardees during the ceremony is giving below in their categories:

    Distinguished Fellows
    PROF. DJIBRIL NAGUIBOU MOHAMED
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He holds BSc Biology, Doctor of Pharmacy, MD (Doctor of Medicine in General medicine), MDC (Doctor of Medicine in cardiology) , Msc Pharmacology and PhD in Pharmacology. He’s a professor in Medicine at the University of Parakou and HOD at University of Abomey Carlavi, Benin republic. He’s a cardiologist consultant at CNHU ,and the Vice Chancellor at Good Shepherd University Of Benin.

    Name: PROF. OGAR VICTOR UGBEM
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He has B.Sc and M.Sc in economics, Postgraduate Diploma in Energy and Environmental Studies, Advance Diploma in Business Management, Diploma in Educational Management, Membership/Registration: Associate Member of the Institute of Corporate Affairs Management of Nigeria and Fellow of Hartford International Business School in Nigeria. The president and Chancellor of African University of Benin – Cotonou in the Republic of Benin and President and Chancellor of African Bilingual University of Togo in Lome, Republic of Togo. Also, the President and founder.-AUB Educational Consult Lagos Nigeria.

    Name: PROF. WIRBA AMENU FOVEN
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He holds B. Pharm , MBBS , MD , PhD. He is Director of Academic Affairs at King’s college University, Poland; The president and founder and Vice Chancellor of Continental University Institute of Science and Technology, Cameroon; Professor at Faculty of medicine -Pharmacy at NAPISCTECH ,Cameroon and the former Director of School of Medicine and Pharmacy in IUB ,Cameroon.

    Name: PROF. BEST ORDINIOHA
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Professor of public health and community medicine, Director of school of Public health university of Port-Harcourt.

    Name: IBRAHIM UMAR
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Director of Education and Developmental Standard; National Primary Health Care Registration Board Of Nigeria. A RCHP of over 20 years, possess excellent communication and listening skills, works extremely well in a team. A renowned workaholic staff of the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board Of Nigeria.

    Name: DANLADI MAKPA JIBRIN
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He’s a Lecturer /Clinical Instructor; Nasarawa State University Keffi and FAMSAS College of Health Science Technology Keffi, State Chairman Private Clinic Proprietors Association (Community Health Practitioners Wing Nasarawa State), Assist. Secretary Health care providers Association of Nigeria Nasarawa State Chapter, Acting State Chairman Association of Primary Healthcare Tutors of Nigeria Nasarawa State Chapter. Hold the revered position of Madaki-Buh Chiefdom of Buh Chiefdom Traditional Council Wamba LGA Nasarawa State Nigeria. He also had the privilege of Being a Member Staff regularisation and Promotion Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Member Nasarawa State Ministry of Health Medical Oxygen Technical Working Group. Member CHAI Medical Oxygen steering Committee and Technical Working Group, Member of Nasarawa State University Keffi Department of Community Health Sciences steering Committee, Member Nasarawa State Human Resources for Health.

    Name: DR. IYOHA NERITA EMIKE OGBHEMHE
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Dr Iyoha has Bachelors in Medicine and Surgery and certificates of in management (NIM) as a chartered manager and in Anesthesia. Also she has Diploma from Modern Montessori International (early childhood educator 2½ – 6 years) and Diploma in Anaesthesia. She has masters in occupation Medicine and is also member of West African College of Surgeon.

    Name: DR. EMMANUEL NWAKAJI ETOR
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Public Health Inspector and a Research Scholar at Highstone Global University, Texas.

    Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Name: HON. BETHEL CHINEGBO ALOZIE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Chairman, Evaron Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

    Name: SIR (BARR) AYANSHISHIE JOSEPH ADIE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He holds BA(HON) LLB LAW, University of Calabar, CRS; Masters in Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) University of Uyo,Akwa Ibom State; Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Education (PGDEE), University of Calabar, CRS; Higher National Diploma in Town Planning (HND), Polytechnic, Calabar CRS. He is a member of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA); Nigerian Institute of Town Planners(MNITP) and Town Planners Registration Council Of Nigeria (TOPREG) RTP. He is also Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria.Former Executive Secretary of CRS Land Use and Allocation Committee. In addition, he is Former Crs Director Of Town Planning And Former Director Of Crs Ministry New Cities Development.

    Name: HON, DR. IGBOJIOUN BEKEE. O.
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He holds Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees in various field such as: National Diploma in Public Administration from Akwapoly, Diploma in Photosynthesis/Mass-communication and Higher National Diploma in Public Administration both in Federal Polytechnic Nekede. Diploma in Public Health Administration and Management from Abia State College of Health Science and Management Technology ABA. BSC in Human Resources Management from Federal University of Agriculture Umudike. BSC in Public Health Science from Abia State University Uturu. Is a Public Health Board Member to the Abia State Primary Healthcare development agency (ASPHCDA) Abia. and also a Consultant to the Government of Abia State, Office of the Executive Governor as Special Assistant, Senior Special Assistant and Special Adviser on Public Health respectively.

    Name: INGIO, MARY UTIANGBESHIE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Rm, Rn, Rophthn, B.Sc(Nursing Admin.) Pd( In View) M.Sc(Public Health) In View. Present Position, Director Of Nursing Services, Crs

    Name: MRS THERESA UTIANGWU UKAKA
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: She’s a Double qualified Nurse (sister) Domiciliary Midwifery Services, Deputy PHC – Co-ordinator. Obanliku Local Government Council, CRS, Snr. Lecturer (Nurse Tutor), Abi College of Nursing, Itigidi, Abi CRS, Chief Lecturer, College of Nursing Services Obudu CRS.

    Name: Dr. MUSANGO ANTHONY DENNIS MUKWELLE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He’s the Ceo/ Medical Director Of Makwalla Health Care Services Ltd Abuja, a clinician of many years experience. Graduated from the university of Calabar with the degree in MBBCH 1995 and a master  of public health from the university Lagos in the 2000. Dr Musango has a PHD in medical quality from the Smart international college from the united kingdom and from the institute of man power and leadership of Nigeria. He has won many scholarships at home and abroad, especially the prestigious scholarship from Johnson and Johnson and the university of California USA and the Ghana institute of management and public administration for Managers in health care in west Africa. Dr Musango has work as a physician in the Norwalk hospital in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. He has written many abstracts that gave him full scholarships to present in the following countries:  France, USA, Thailand, China, Italy, Germany, Japan, and many more. Dr Musango is currently the CEO,and Medical Director of MAKWALLA HEALTH CARE SERVICES IN ABUJA. He is a passionate quality assurance professional. Dr Musango is  the director of operations of Nestraklinikal, a collaborative program with the  university of Abuja, for the program quality management system and quality Assurance.He is also a graduate of the Lagos Business school now PAN ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY.

    Name: AFAMEFULE EMEKA HENRY
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He was Radiographer/Sonographer ,New Hope Hospital Onitsha . Internee Radiographer: Lautech Teaching Hospital Osogbo Osun State, Sonographer. Meridian Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Radiographer/Sonographer,St Peters Hospital, Yenagoa Bayelsa State Sonographer.Glory Land Hospital Ovum Yenagoa Bayelsa State, Sonographer Everly Clinic In Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Radiographer, Fmc Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Presently An Assistant Director Of Radiography Fmc Yenagoa Bayelsa State.

    Name: ASOEGWU MAGNUS EZENWA
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Dr. Ugo is a highly skilled professional who excels in various capacities. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of South-West Zonal Controller for the National Biosafety Management Agency of Nigeria (NBMA), where she has been instrumental in spearheading groundbreaking initiatives. With a background in Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Ugo has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in the areas of medical imaging and speech recognition device inventions. Her expertise extends to scientific research, focusing on Occupational Safety, Health, Safety, and Environment, Biotechnology, Biosafety/Biosecurity, Bioterrorism, and regulatory compliance. In addition to her professional endeavors, Dr. Ugo is the dedicated Lagos State Coordinator of the Women Leadership Institute and Network (WLIN). Under her leadership, she has successfully organized and facilitated empowerment programs for women and girls, providing financial support to widows and those in need. She has also implemented girl child leadership clubs in schools, promoting the development of future female leaders.

    Name: DR UGONNA C. ONYEKWELU
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Dr. Ugo is a highly skilled professional who excels in various capacities. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of South-West Zonal Controller for the National Biosafety Management Agency of Nigeria (NBMA), where she has been instrumental in spearheading groundbreaking initiatives.

    Name: DEACON NTUIOKWA MANYO ATTA
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Cooperative Development Bank (April 13th 2004 – December 5th 2005), First City Monument Bank (December 5th 2005 – March 25th 2007), Zenith Bank PLC (April 3th 2007 – March 25th 2011), First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Calabar Main Branch, Calabar Iman junction Branch, Obudu Branch and Ogoja Branch (April 5th 2011 till Date).

    Name: DR. BEN UDEME MAURICE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Medical Imaging and Radiological Services Practitioner, He had acquired job experience in Foundation for Restoring Women & Child Dignity (FREWOCD), Braithewaithe Memorial Specialist Hospital, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Ministry of Defence: Ship House Clinic, Military Hospital Port Harcourt and 13 B.DE Medical Center Calabar From 2012-Till date.

    Doctoral Fellows
    Name: DR. MRS. JEREMIAH ARISTIDE-FLORE
    Membership Level For Induction: Doctoral Fellow
    Brief Profile: She holds a BSc in (Botany ), MSc in (Botany ), MD (Doctor of Medicine) , MPOM (Master of occupation Medicine). She has Affiliations include Fig tree Clinic where she is a Senior medical Doctor and West Africa Union University , Republic of Benin, as a Visiting lecturer.

    Name:. UNIMKE LINUS ABOH
    Membership Level For Induction: Doctoral Fellow
    Brief Profile: Unimke Linus Aboh. Holds: Dip. Purchasing and Supply (KADSPOLY). B. Sc. (Hons) Pub. Admin. (ABU). MPA (M. Sc.) Pub. Admin (JOS). Currently, he is Registrar, JOENAGI College of Health Technology, Obudu. Also, Supervisory Director, Evergreen Hotels, Obudu. He worked as Lecturer cum HOD, Pub Admin Dept., Allover Central Polytechnic, Obudu Campus. Lecturer 1, Dept of Pol Sci., Enugu State College of Education, Obudu Campus. Verification Officer, Cross River State social safety net enrollment project. He is Registrar, JOENAGI College of Health Technology, Obudu. Also, Supervisory Director, Evergreen Hotels, Obudu.

    Name: DR MODUPEOLUWA PEACE DUROTOYE
    Membership Level For Induction: Doctoral Fellow
    Brief Profile: She holds BSc., MSc, and PhD degrees in Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Nutrition Health respectively. She has held positions as a clinical diagnostic assistant, customer care/marketing officer, clinical assistant in a ethomedical organization, biology teacher, Vice principal, regulatory officer, quality control and production manager, feed consultant /researcher, Lecturer/ Head of Department. She also serves as Vice Chairman/ Program coordinator as well as Director; in a NGO and an International Faith-based Organization.

    Research Fellows
    Name: DR. KUFRE EFFIONG ESSIEN
    Membership Level For Induction: Research Fellow
    Brief Profile: QHSE Consultant, CEO / Lead Consultant Safety Master Limited Uyo, AKS

    Fellows
    Name: DR. DORIS ATIBINYE DOTIMI
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: She’s an Associate Professor of Community Health (Department of Community Health Science) and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences of Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria (2021-Date). She is a fellow of the African Institute of Public Health Practitioners (FAIPH), a Fellow of the Institute of Human Resource Development (FHRD), and a Registered Community Health Practitioner (RCHP). She qualified as a Registered Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) in 1992 and a Community Health Officer in 1997. She holds a Bachelor of Public Health Degree (BPH) from Texila American University, Guyana, 1 Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health from Imo State University, Nigeria, 2 Master Degrees in Public Health and Community Health from Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya and University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria respectively. She also holds a doctoral degree (PhD) in Public Health from Walden University, USA. She is currently a member of several academic committees at Bayelsa Medical University, Dean, Faculty Of Health Sciences, Bayelsa Medical University

    Name: DR. OKEM FRED IGBANG
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: National Diploma in Community Medicine, HND in Community Medicine, PGD in Public Health, PGDM, MSc in Health Management, Phd in view.

    Name: DR. DIDIOMA ANTHONY OGHENEVWOGAGA
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Join the Nigerian Army 1996 as Infantry, Trained as Dental Therapist and Lectured With the Nigerian Army School of Medical Sciences, Masters in Education (M.Ed.)Administration & Planning, Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) Teacher Education, Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) Public Health (Dental Therapy) NOUN. PhD in Educational Administration (in view). Currently lecturing with the Delta State College of Health Science and Technology, Ofuoma.

    Name: ELIZABETH OKOHO ETIM
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Academic Qualification: B.Sc Anatomy, MSc Population and Reproductive Health, PhD Epidemiology (in view), Oracle Database Administrator (DBA).

    Name: DR. OMOWHARA LUCKY OTEHERI
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: MBBS Obstetrics & Gynaecologiy, Post graduate institute of medicine AcLs BLs CPR PALs Blood bone pathogen mental health and ECG, Diploma in Aesthic medicine IUI lab and clinical Essentials & Genetics Reproduction, Member of the American association of aesthetics medicines, AFRH -Association of fertility & reproductive of health, Indian fertility Society of reproductive health (IFS), Member of the Rotary international, Currently polio plus rep in Delta state. Chief medical director (CMD) Hannahson medical center / foundation /fertility clinic.

    Name: JAMES BARIBAARA PROMISE
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Adjunct Lecturer (National Teachers Institute (NTI). Capt Elechi Amadi Polytechnic Study Centre and Classroom teacher: Health and Physical Education, Biology and Food & Nutrition (The Royal International Missionary Group of Schools, Port-Harcourt.

    Name: AZI ABRAHAM
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Maiduguri and a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Safety Education from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Portharcourt Rivers State.

    Full Members
    Name: SISE RACHEAL MBALE
    Membership Level For Induction: Full Member
    Brief Profile: She’s a Primary Health Care Practitioner, with over 10years experience in Practice.

    Other dignitaries at the event include;
    Dr. Ekpanghambah Mojafu-Ekpang (Director, Human Resources IHSRAN), Dr. Ntamu Ekahe-Joseph Abua (Director Of Education & Training IHSRAN), and Mr. Unimke Linus Aboh (Head, Membership & Admission IHSRAN)

    In his closing his remarks, the Vice President of the institute, Associate Prof Gabriel Jeremiah Oruikor, acknowledged efforts made by those who pivoted the success of the event.

  • Betta Edu Meets Rescued Federal University Gusau Students, Assures Them Of FG’s Immediate Humanitarian Assistance

     

    Emotions ran high Thursday when the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu met with the rescued students of the Federal University Gusau and assured them of improved security and immediate humanitarian response to support their recovery process.

    Dare-devil bandits had recently struck at the University and kidnapped twenty five (25) female students in their hostels. However, sixteen of them have been rescued by security forces.

    Speaking when she took the message of Renewed Hope to the Management and Students of the Federal University of Gusau, in company of the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, the Minister said President Ahmed Bola Tinubu was concerned by the unfortunate incident adding that he would ensure the safe return of the remaining students.

    Edu who personally interacted with some of the rescued students one after the other, said both Federal and State government are working together to improve Security in Zamfara State in particular and Northwest in general.

    According to her, “I bring you the assurance of the President, that those remaining students will be back. The President has put in place a security architecture in collaboration with Zamfara State government that will safeguards lives and property.

    She said one of the eight-point agenda of President Tinubu and indeed the primary agenda of government is Security and the welfare of its people.

    “I want to assure you that our children, our students will come back home and get back to school to continue their education.”

    “The President has assured us of improved security across the country to reduce humanitarian crises and eradicate multi-dimensional poverty, we hope that very soon, the remaining nine students in captivity will soon be released.

    “For the students, do not be deterred by the incident and continue to pursue your education, where necessary, we will ensure their full rehabilitation and reintegration to enable them continue their studies. Our President believes in Education, he has made provision for Student Loans and Scholarships to assist the education of young people.

    On his part, Governor Lawal commended Dr. Edu for taking the pains “to visit us over the ugly incident that happened 10 days ago.”

    The Governor assured that the State Government will continue in its efforts to work with the Federal Government to create a conducive learning environment and will also do its best to protect the lives and properties of the people which is the primary function of government.

    Lawal who said Zamfara Needs help from the federal government, said the coming of the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Minister was an indication of a better collaboration from the federal government led by President Tinubu.

    The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Gusau, Professor Muazu Abubakar Gusau, said the management of the university was delighted to receive the Minister at this trying time.

    Professor Gusau, recounted the ordeals the institution has encountered in the hands of bandits in times past even before this administration and called for increased security for the institution.

    The VC appealed to Dr. Edu to factor in the University in her Ministry’s several intervention schemes.

    The institution Student Union Representatives led by Comrade Bello Aliyu, Commended the Minister for visiting them in their trying period, asking that the students should be accommodated in the National Social Investment Programmes of the Federal government. The victims of the incident also met with the Minister who is supporting them directly and will provide for some psychosocial therapy to help with quick recovery and reintegration.

    Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair (ANIPR), Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Minister, MHAPA.
    06/10/2023

  • Gov Otu Assures Of His Administration’s Commitment To Support Any Engagement Targeted At Building The Youths

    The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has assured the youths of Cross River State of this administration’s commitment to support any engagement targeted at building the youths in the state.

    Senator Otu, who was ably represented by his Deputy Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this known at the Hit FM Calabar Entertainment Conference held today at the cultural center complex, Calabar. He commended the CEO of Hit FM Calabar, Mr. Patrick Ugbe and Crew for putting and sustaining the event over the past seven years, noting that entertainment contributes to the socio-economic development of any state especially as it has to do with building the youths of Cross River State.

    According to Rt. Hon Odey, “Anything to do with the people of Cross River State, count us first, because we want the vaccine people of Cross River State to be first”

    While acknowledging the entertainment stars of Cross River State origin present at the event, he started that he is very confident that this conference will birth more stars in the music and movies industry. Therefore the state government will partner with Hit FM for next year’s event because it is evident that Entertainment is an avenue to invest in young people and take them off the streets as well as off criminal activities and engaging them where they will be productive and contribute to the society.

    Welcoming the guest, sponsors, panelists and artists to this year’s event, the Chief executive Officer of Hit FM Calabar, Mr Patrick Ugbe said this is the first time since the event started that there is a formal presence of government. He said it goes to show the commitment and love this administration has towards youth development and indeed, the season of sweetness is upon us.

    The calabar entertainment conference (CEC) is an annual youth engagement event which was undertaken with the believe that the creative industry is the fastest way to get young people out of poverty and crime into gainful engagement. It also aims at growing and developing the entertainment sector in the south -south, thereby making it viable and sustainable for the practitioners.

    Mr. Ugbe noted that the impact has been huge, with an upsurge of entertainment events in Calabar, Cross River State and neighbouring states. He thanked all the sponsors and partners such as the United States consulate General Office in Lagos, Multichoice, Leven Energy, Black house media and a host of others.

  • No Emotion Or Sentiment Would Be Considered In My Efforts To Do The Right Thing In FCT – Wike

    The Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike, has said that no sentiment or emotion would be considered in his efforts to do the right thing in FCT.

    This was made known by Wike in Abuja while reacting to a trending video on social media showing the staff of Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company (AUMTCO), protesting and crying over the sack of the company’s managing director.

    The MD and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Najeeb Abdulsalam, was among the 21 heads of parastatals, agencies, and companies of the FCT Administration that were sacked by the minister a few days ago.

    Wike further explained that he would do the right thing in the interest of residents of the FCT and Nigerians at large.

    He said: “That is why when I watch people on video, crying that somebody has been removed and that he has been doing well, but the question is if you have been doing well, where are the buses?

    “No sentiment, no emotions will be considered when we are doing what is right. We will do the right thing in the interest of the people.

    “If you like, carry 20 people, put a video, and cry as much as you want to cry, it will not bother us. What bothered us is the reality on the ground.”

    “You are not a civil servant where you will say nobody is supposed to retire me because I am not up to the age of retirement.

    “Even as a minister, I can be relieved of my position now. You don’t need to cry; some other people will come and all we pray for is, let us get the best.”

    He advised political appointees to always prepare to leave office at any time because someone might come and want to have a total change.

  • Vulnerable Pensioners Will Receive N25,000 Grants From Next Month, Betta Edu Tells NLC.

     

    The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation will from next month start payment of twenty five thousand Naira (25,000) grants to the benefiting members of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners captured in the expanded National Social Register of the Conditional Cash Transfer, (CCT) Scheme.

    Minister For Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, announced this Wednesday when she met with the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC led by its President Joe Ajaero at the Labour House, Abuja.

    The Minister explained that the decision to include vulnerable pensioners in the CCT scheme was President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to labour leaders which he will deliver on.

    Edu told the NLC that “The President mentioned very clearly that vunurable pensioners should be immediately captured on the National Social Register and benefit from the Conditional Cash Transfer, as part of the National Social Safety Net expansion and this was made clear in his speech on Independence Day where he committed 25,000 Naira for 15million household for three months.”

    She appealed to the NLC to help fast-track the process of collating Data of would-be vulnerable pensioners beneficiaries so that they can start receiving CCT.

    “I want us to fast-track this. If we can get this data and information within two weeks, we are sure that you will be beneficiaries immediately and you can start earning from next month which is November, that’s the main reason why I’m here”, Dr. Edu said.

    She commended Ajaero for being a team player, saying the task of moving Nigeria forward was a collective one and urged him to continue to have faith in the federal government under President Tinubu.

    Responding, Ajaero expressed delight at the various poverty alleviation schemes rolled out by the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Ministry and the passion and commitment the Minister has for the job.

    He was however of the view that getting to the root cause of poverty would go a long way in addressing the problem.

    “Let’s look at not only how to solve this problem, but the cause of it, if we continue to treat the effects of poverty the problem will persist. Let us look at other social welfare interventions and job creation that will go a long way to support families.

    The NLC boss urged the federal government to create more jobs by creating a productive economy where factories are functioning and employing workers.

    He thanked the Minister for being the first member of the federal executive council to visit the labour house in President Tinubu’s Administration, saying “for finding time to visit the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, we will work with you to achieve success in this process and your impact will be felt.

    President of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Godwin Abumisi, thanked President Tinubu and the Minister for finding the retirees worthy of the federal government benefits.

    He said Pensioners will receive as low as between five and ten thousand Naira a month, saying twenty five thousand is a big money to them. He thanked the Minister for the Exceptional performance so far urging her to keep up the speed.

    Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair, (ANIPR)
    Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Minister.
    05/10/2023.

  • Jarigbe Facilitates The Construction Of 1.5-Kilometer Road In Mbube, Ogoja LGA

     

    The Senator Representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, DSSRS, has facilitated the construction of a 1.5-kilometer Oboso-Aragbang-Egbe Road in Mbube, Ogoja LGA of the senatorial district.

    The Senator was represented by his Constituency officer Mr. Egar Mgbantul who visited the site earlier today, to ascertain the level of work done so far by the contractor. Mr. Egar who was elated by the quality and pace of work done, commended the contractor for grading and commencement of stone base immediately.

    Elders and youths of the communities lauded the lawmaker for always thinking about his constituents, as they prayed for God’s protection upon him and his family.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

     

  • Akpanke Sponsors Motion To Investigate Indiscriminate Issuance Of Certificate Of No Objection By Bereau Of Public Procurement

    By Elijah Ugani 

    The member representing Obudu/Bekwarra/Obanliku federal constituency, Hon Peter Akpanke has moved a motion to investigate the indiscriminate issuance of certificate of no objection by the Bereau of Public Procurement and non-compliance with the mandatory post-procurement audit.

    The lawmaker who brought the motion under matter of urgent public importance, noted that, “by the Provisions of the Sections 6 (1)(c) and 16 (1) (b) of the Public Procurement Act 2007, the Bureau of Public procurement (BPP) is authorized to issue a certificate of no objection to contracts awarded by relevant procurement entity;
    Also notes that the powers vested in the Bureau of Public Procurement are aimed at ensuring that the letters and spirit of the Public Procurement Act are compiled with, the government gets value for money, contracts awarded are within relevant thresholds backed by budgetary allocation”.

    Speaking further, Hon Akpanke averred that “the Bureau of Public Procurement has failed to comply with the mandatory post-procurement audit as required by Section 5(p) of the Public Procurement Act 2007”.

    He further observed that “the Bureau has consistently engaged in under-hand dealings in the grant of “certificate of no objection” thus abusing the power to make pecuniary gains and increasing incidences of the abandoned and failed projects across the country”.

    Akpanke maintained that “such gross abuses and violation of the Public Procurement Act, 2007 has been exasperated by the recent increase in arbitrary nomination to procuring entities of winners for tendering processes and where the procuring entity declines, the process is interjected and frustrated in bad faith and for flimsy reasons”.

    Hon Akpanke expressed worries that “if urgent steps are not taken to investigate the allegations and address any proven infractions, the Bureau of Public Procurement is likely to transform itself from a regulator to a disruptor and eventually endanger the entire public procurement system”.

    He called on the Speaker to “mandate the Committee on Public Procurement to investigate the above allegations and report back within six(6) weeks for legislative action; and
    Also mandate the Committee on Public Procurement to consider the Biannual reports submitted in the last six years and make their findings known to the public”.

  • Prince F O Oli Memorial Award Credits 30 Beneficiaries

    By Elijah Ugani 

    No fewer than 30 sons and daughters of Utugwang, Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State, received credit alert of Twenty Thousand naira (#20,000.00) only each from the Prince F O Oli Memorial Award scheme.

    The award which was pronounced by Oli Oli Olowhu, during his convocation of Doctor of Philosophy PhD, was instituted by his father of blessed memory, Princ F O Oli.

    Mr Oli Oli Olowhu PhD, during the pronouncement of the award noted that his late father had in 1995, during his matriculation ceremony in Calabar, promised all Utugwang sons and daughters that whoever graduates with a first class or second class upper from the University of Calabar will receive an award, as a way of encouragement for the students to take their studies serious.

    Oli noted that “After my late dad made the pronouncement, death could not allow him fulfil his promise. Today, having attend this feet, I want to immortalize my late dad. I will give award to all Utugwang sons and daughters with First Class and Second Class Upper from 1995 to date who graduated from the University of Calabar”

    Mr Olowhu immediately set a committee to compile names of awardees after a rigorous verification exercise, 30 persons were given the award.

    Speaking to TheLumineNews, Mr Oli Oli Olowhu, noted that “We intend to extend our scope of operation, we will get a foundation registered to enable us reach out effectively to those who truly desire assistance in areas of education, empowerment, agriculture, skills acquisition”

    Mr Oli Oli Olowhu has supported more than 20 Utugwang sons and daughters acquired University degrees, Masters of Arts M.A and Masters of Science M. Sc.

  • Oli Oli Olowhu Congratulates Hon Ekperikpe Ekpo, On His Appointment As Minister Of State, Gas Resources

    I wish to congratulate our own Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo on his appointment and swearing in as Hon. Minister of State, Gas Resources.

    Mr. President has made a good choice to appoint our own to drive the gas revolution so as to grow businesses, create employment opportunities and provide energy to help eradicate poverty in our country. Your appointment as Minister of State, Gas Resources is important to increase gas power generation, facilitate the speedy completion of the Trans Sahara Gas Pipeline, AKK Pipeline, LNG Train 7 Projects and setting up of CNG stations to ameliorate the present hardship from fuel subsidy removal. These projects will translates to creating substantial revenue generation to boost Nigeria GDP.

    Please let us pray for our Hon. Minister for God to grant him more wisdom, strength and ability to spearhead the development, industrialization and commercialization of our gas resources at this critical period of Energy Transition.

    Congratulations once more!

    Dr Oli Oli Olowhu Ph.D Petroleum Geochemistry (Oil & Gas Expert with more than two decades of experience).