Nigerian Nurses Seek Improved Welfare, Training

By Justina Auta

Nurses at the State House Medical Centre (SHMC), Abuja, on Tuesday, urged the Federal Government to improve their welfare package, training and accommodation to address migration of healthcare workers to other countries.

They made the call at the commemoration of the 2024 International Nurse’s Week with the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future: The Economic Power of Care.”

Mr Agenyi Friday, the Chairman, National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), State House chapter, described nurses as pivotal to healthcare services, whose work impacts on the well-being of individuals, families, communities and the nation.

He, however, said that inadequate welfare package, insufficient training and insecurity contribute to their migration to other countries.

He, therefore, appealed to government and the SHMC management to address the challenges to reduce migration due to “greener pasture”
and encourage others to contribute to improving healthcare services.

Friday said “we are soliciting for support in strategic training for nurses in various specialty courses and if we dont do that, they will become outdated.

“Also, it is quiet alarming that many are going out of service, some died in active service, some are searching for greener pasture. The manpower
has actually depleted, we call on the management to look into it.

“Some nurses have witnessed “one chance” after closing from work, while some have been robbed, assuming they stay in a quarters, such ugly incidents will not happen. They should be accommodated in quarters.

“We also urge management to constitute a critical care team that will oversee emergency medical services.”

Similarly, Mrs Taiwo Thompson-Olatigbe, the Head of Department, Nursing at the SHMC, reiterated the commitment of nurses toward discharging their duties to improve the health and well-being of citizens.

She said “these dedicated professionals work tirelessly, day in and day out, to provide exceptional care for our community.

“From the moment we enter a hospital or clinic, nurses are there offering comforting smiles, explaining complex procedures and advocating for the needs of patients.

“They are the bridge between patients and doctors, ensuring everyone is on the same page and that the path to recovery is clear.”

Thompson-Olatigbe, therefore, appealed to government to ensure continuous training, improved welfare and accommodation for nurses to address challenges, especially insecurity.

Responding, Mr Adebiyi Funsho, the Permanent Secretary, SHMC, represented by Mr Lukman Kelani, the Director, ICT, appreciated the nurses for their dedication to service.

Funsho assured the nurses that efforts were on to address challenges affecting their inputs, especially in the areas of training, welfare, accommodation and others.

He said “I implore you to do more because they said the result of good work is more work. So, please do more to enable people feel comfortable when they come to hospital to access healthcare.”

Other activities include sensitisation walk in some strategic locations within the FCT and unveiling of the sixth edition of the Rising Star Health First
nurses magazine.

NAN

Nigeria: Court of Appeal Affirms Reinstatement Of Emir Of Gwandu

Nigeria’s Court of Appeal, sitting in Sokoto, northwest of the country has reaffirmed that the dethroned Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Al-Mustapha Jokolo was not given a fair hearing before his dethronement by the Kebbi State Government.

The latest judgement was the second time the state government lost the appeal against the judgement of the lower court which gave the same ruling.

The court in its unanimous judgement read by Justice Ebiowei Tobi, on Monday, ruled that the appeal by the state government lacked merit.

“I went through the judgment of the lower court and I did not see where the lower court based its decision on DW1 and DW2 but on non-compliance to the Chiefs Appointment and deposition law of Kebbi State.

“I have looked at the judgement again and again. That the lower court did not make mention of these evidences as the basis of the judgement.

“All the lower court did was to produce the Chiefs Appointment and Deposition law of Kebbi State in coming to the conclusion that the first respondent was not accorded fair hearing.

“Based on this, the appeal lacks merit and is therefore dismissed. By so doing, I reaffirm the judgement of the lower court as delivered by Justice Abbas.

“And if you can remember, the sister appeal was equally determined in favour of the first respondent (Jokolo) because they were all talking about the same subject matter,” he said.

Responding to the Judgement, the lead counsel to the Appellants, Mr Yakubu Maikyau thanked the court for the judgement which he described as timely.

He, however, said the judgement would be appealed at the Supreme Court.

Also reacting, Counsel to Alhaji Jokolo, Barrister Fascal Onyenobi hailed the judgement, which he said was not surprising, as this was the second time, they were winning the case.

Also speaking, a family member of Jokolo, Aminu Muazu, described the judgement as a landmark.

Muazu said the case which started about 18 years ago was initiated by the dethroned Emir to enforce his fundamental rights which according to him was breached.

 

NAGAFF Partners Nigeria Customs On Stress Management In Maritime Industry

By Bon Peters, Port Harcourt 

The National Association of Government Approved Frieght Forwarders (NAGAFF) has in partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service Area 11 Command, Onne, Rivers state, organized a sensitization to mitigate the impact of stress among freight forwarders.

Speaking at the programme, tagged stress management in the maritime industry at Onne, the NAGAFF Chapter Chairman Onne, Seaport, Ike Okechukwu Anselem, said, the pressure experienced by his colleagues in the course of their businesses on daily basis motivated him to organize the sensitization on stress management with a focus on the Maritime industry.

He regretted that the Association had lost one of its members recently, in a stress related situation. The said member left for home after his day’s work at onne, only to be reported dead at night, “shouting, my heart! my heart!”

Mr. Anselem said , he felt sad for the loss, but also got compelled to organize the sensitization so that members of the association would take their health seriously and continually ascertain their wellness.

He reiterated that as a believer in “Health is wealth,” he would do everything possible as Chairman to safeguard the health and safety of his members.

The chairman hinted that the “programme is a pilot one and we intend to continue with it and make it more elaborate by inviting psychologists and other medical practitioners.”

He praised the Onne Customs Command especially the CAC, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede for providing their medical team for the programme, urging his members and other freight forwarders to key into the programme to check their blood pressure, blood sugar level, cholesterol and other inherent ailments that cause heavy damage to body system.

The NAGAFF chairman who said he was encouraged by the founder of NAGAFF, Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, NAGAFF National president, High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi and his Deputy National President Seaport, Amb. Afam Chukwuma said the programme would be widely publicized subsequently to attract the bigwigs in the freight forwarding business.

On her part, the resource person Dr. TR. Omarijvwie, applauded NAGAFF for organizing the programme saying it was a good for the freight forwarders to always go for regular Medical check-up.

Speaking on Stress, she noted that stress has become part of people’s daily routine since “The World of Achievement is a world of Stress”

However, she was quick to point out that stress can be managed.

She said when stress is not managed, it can affect vital organs in the body such as kidney, liver, and heart among others, even as she advised people to be contented with life and avoid stretching above their limits.

Dr. Omarijvwie advised the Maritime industry workers to create time for relaxation, and hobbies like playing lawn tennis, table tennis, as well as decongest their minds, and be positive.

“Keep a daily routine, get plenty of sleep while maintaining a good sleeping hygiene, eat healthy, keep healthy relationships, exercise always, limit the time of listening to news and most importantly go for medical check–up,” she said.

Some participants expressed satisfaction with Onne customs Area 11, Command and the NAGAFF officials for organizing the programme.

High point of the programme was the medical check-up for Sugar level, Blood pressure and cholesterol level for the participants.

Northern Governors Reject Tax Reform Bill, Say It’s Against Interest Of Northerners

By Joseph Edegbo 

The meeting of the Northern State Governors Forum has ended in Kaduna with a unanimous rejection of the recent Tax Reform Bill sent to the National Assembly.

In a 12 point Communique signed by the Forum’ s Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, they said, the Forum notes with dismay the content of the Bill.

” The contents of the Blare against the interests of the north and other sub-nationals especially the proposed amendment to the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) to Derivation-based Model.

“This is because companies remit VAT using location of their headquarters and tax office and not where the services and goods are consumed. “In view of the foregoing, the Forum unanimously rejects the proposed Tax Amendments and calls on members of National Assembly to oppose any bill that “can jeopardize the well-being of our people”,

The Communique Reads:

COMMUNIQUE OF THE NORTHERN STATES
GOVERNORS’ FORUM MEETING WITH CHAIRMEN OF NORTHERN STATES COUNCIL OF EMIRS AND CHIEFS HELD ON MONDAY 287H OCTOBER, 2024

A joint meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Northern Traditional Ruler’ Council (Emirs and Chiefs) was held today, Monday 28 October, 2024. The meeting was also briefed on the security challenges in the north by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. The meeting deliberated extensively on matters of common interest and resolved to issue the following communique:

1. Forum extends its deepest sympathies to the victims of the recent flood disasters in Maiduguri and other parts of the North, as well as to the families affected by the tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State. The Forum equally commiserates with other victims of terrorism, banditry and similar criminal activities in the North and Nigeria at large and stand in solidarity with them during these difficult times. We agreed to continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected.

2. Forum emphasises that Traditional Institutions are critical in the quest for lasting peace and security in the region. Forum also acknowledged their commitment in bridging the gap between the Government and the people. Forum advocates for increased roles for the Traditional Institutions to maximize cooperation with security agencies in the fight against kidnap for ransom, banditry, cattle rustling, communal clashes, farmers/herder clashes and other forms of criminality.

3. Forum acknowledges the recent gains made against criminals, especially the elimination of bandits and terror leaders. However, we resolved to sustain these gains in order to ensure lasting peace and stability in the sub-region. Forum commend the Federal Government and security agencies for their commitment in ensuring that our communities are safe and secure. Particularly we commend the untiring commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff General C. J Musa whose professionalism and innovative approach has made difference in security architecture of the Country at large. Nevertheless more need to be done to address pockets of challenges that abound in the Northern Region.

4. With the recent “End Bad Governance” protests that took place in August, the Forum resolved to scale up efforts to tackle the root causes of youth restiveness by investing in education, skills development, job creation and pathways for the youth to chanel their energy into productive ventures, thereby reducing their vulnerability to crime and social vices.

5. Forum resolves to call on the Federal Government and relevant Agencies to urgently address the current electricity power blackout affecting most of the Northern States due to vandalization of electricity transmission infrastructure. This matter not only underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure, but also the need to build aalitional transmission lines and diversify our energy supply so as to better connect our region and improve our energy resilience.

6. Forum agrees that Northern Nigeria holds immense agricultural potentials, which, if fully harnessed, can significantly alleviate hunger and boost economic growth. To achieve this, we resolved to provide adequate support to our farmers, including access to financing, modern farming techniques and infrastructure such as roads and irrigation systems. Agriculture should not only be seen as a means to feed our people but also as a catalyst for industrialization and job creation across the region. That can be achieved through re-industrialisation of the North especially by reviving the textile value chain and development of other agro-allied industries.

7. Forum commends His Excellency, the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the reform initiative in the livestock sub-sector and agreed to provide the necessary political will and commitment to ensure the success of the Federal Government livestock development initiatives. The Forum also agreed to sustain engagement and cross-fertilization of ideas with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee to achieve greater results.

8. Forum acknowledges the fact that climate change has greatly affected our environment resulting in the recent flood incidents in many parts of the North and therefore resolved to partner with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure like canals and waterways to divert excess water and channel them towards irrigation activities, thus enhancing rural livelihoods and safeguarding food security.

9. Forum agrees to support and key-in to any initiative aimed at addressing the challenges of out-of-school-children and improving educational outcomes in the sub-region.

10. Forum notes with dismay the content of the recent Tax Reform Bill that was forwarded to the National Assembly. The contents of the Blare against the interests of the north and other sub-nationals especially the proposed amendment to the distribution of Value Added Tax (VAT) to Derivation-based Model. This is because companies remit VAT using location of their headquarters and tax office and not wnere the services and goods are consumed. In view of the foregoing, the Forum unanimously rejects the proposed Tax Amendments and calls on members of National Assembly to oppose any bill that can jeopardise the well-being of our people.

11. For the avoidance of doubt, the Northern Governor’ Forum is not averse to any policies or programmes that will ensure the growth and development of the Country. However, the Forum calls for equity and farness in the implementation of all national policies and programmes so as to ensure that no geopolitical zone is short-changed or marginalised.

12. On the present economic hardship affecting the Country, the Forum is appealing to all citizens to remain calm, as the states and Federal Government are working hard to implement measures that will cushion effects of the hardship.

HIS EXCELLENCY, MUHAMMADU INUWA YAHAYA, CON EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF GOMBE STATE / CHAIRMAN, NORTHERN STATES GOVERNORS’ FORUM

Why Chikun Kajuru Federal Constituency Of Kaduna State Needs Ibrahim Gajere, By Benjamin Maigari

As the political landscape continues to evolve in Nigeria, the importance of effective leadership at the federal level cannot be overstated. For the Chikun Kajuru federal constituency, Ibrahim Gajere flying the flag of the All Progressives Congress,(APC), stands out as the candidate best equipped to drive meaningful change and development. His extensive experience, commitment to grassroots empowerment, and vision for the future make him the ideal representative for this constituency.

Proven Leadership Experience

Ibrahim Gajere’s tenure as the two-time chairman of the Kajuru Local Government Area demonstrates his deep understanding of local governance and community needs. His leadership in this role has not only established him as a capable administrator but also as a trusted figure in the community. He has successfully navigated the complexities of local administration, ensuring that the voices of his constituents are heard and prioritized.

A Seasoned Civil Servant

Gajere’s journey as a civil servant, where he rose through the ranks, reflects his dedication and work ethic. His experience in public service equips him with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the challenges faced by Chikun Kajuru. He understands the intricacies of governance, making him well-prepared to advocate for policies that address the unique needs of the constituency.

Commitment to Grassroots Development

A hallmark of Ibrahim Gajere’s leadership is his unwavering commitment to grassroots development. He believes that sustainable progress begins at the community level. His initiatives have focused on empowering local populations, ensuring that resources and opportunities are accessible to everyone, particularly women and youth. By fostering an inclusive environment, Gajere aims to create a more equitable society where all voices matter.

Empowering Women and Youth

Ibrahim Gajere recognizes that the future of Chikun Kajuru lies in the empowerment of its young people and women. His track record includes programs designed to enhance skills, promote entrepreneurship, and ensure that women are actively involved in decision-making processes. By prioritizing the inclusion of these groups, Gajere aims to cultivate a generation of leaders who can contribute to the region’s development.

A Vision for Security and Development

The pressing issues of insecurity and underdevelopment cannot be ignored. Ibrahim Gajere is committed to making laws that will address these challenges head-on. He advocates for comprehensive security measures that protect the lives and property of constituents while promoting initiatives that enhance economic opportunities and community cohesion. His vision includes collaboration with security agencies, local leaders, and community stakeholders to create a safe and prosperous environment for all.

Accountability and Integrity

In a time when trust in leadership is paramount, Ibrahim Gajere stands out as a beacon of accountability. His commitment to transparency and ethical governance assures constituents that he will prioritize their interests above all else. Gajere’s approach to leadership is rooted in service, where he views himself as a servant leader dedicated to the welfare of his people.

Conclusion

Chikun Kajuru federal constituency deserves a representative who embodies the values of integrity, inclusivity, and grassroots empowerment. Ibrahim Gajere’s proven leadership, extensive experience, and commitment to community development position him as the ideal candidate to represent the constituency in the lower chamber. With his vision and dedication, Gajere will work tirelessly to bring about the necessary changes to enhance security, promote inclusivity, and drive sustainable development for all residents. Choosing Ibrahim Gajere means choosing a brighter, more secure future for Chikun Kajuru.

Benjamin Yunana Maigari, a Social Worker Writes From Kaduna

Gov. Inuwa Yahaya Of Gombe State In Kaduna, Leads Northern Govs. Trad. Rulers in Urgent Talks on Power Outage, Regional Challenges

 

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), Monday convened a joint meeting involving Northern Governors and Traditional Rulers to address the ongoing blackout in the northern region and other critical challenges affecting the zone, including security concerns, economic issues, and sustainable development priorities.

The meeting is currently ongoing at the time of this report.

The NSGF, under the leadership of Governor Inuwa Yahaya, according to a statement by his Spokesman, is focused on charting a unified agenda to enhance regional cooperation and development, leveraging the North’s resources to promote long-term development.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya has been engaging with stakeholders across multiple sectors to implement actionable strategies for addressing security concerns, disrupting agricultural productivity and driving up food prices in the region.

Nigeria: High Costs Threaten Fish Supply in Kaduna as Fishermen Seek Assistance

By Ibrahima Yakubu 

Nigerian fishermen are increasingly concerned about the rising costs of fishing equipment, which is limiting their ability to catch enough fish to meet national demand amid high prices for meat and other livestock.

Kaduna Kangimi Dam serves as a major fish market in Kaduna State, supplying fresh fish to the state and surrounding areas.

Hundreds of local youths are involved in fishing for self-sufficiency, but this season, they face significant challenges due to high equipment costs and insufficient support from the state government and other stakeholders.

During a recent visit by journalists to the fishermen at Kangimi Dam, they spoke with Alhaji Ali Garba, a leader among the fishermen who has been in the industry for many years.

He noted that the rising costs are impacting fish supply in the state hence the need for stakeholders intervention

Garba emphasized that many fishermen struggle with inadequate funding and resources, which hampers their ability to provide fresh fish.

He called for government assistance to enhance fish supply.

He expressed alarm that the prices of fishing equipment have tripled this year due to economic hardships, the removal of subsidies, and the depreciation of the Nigerian naira.

“The costs of Nets, hooks, boats, and other equipment have skyrocketed, making it difficult to catch larger fish, unlike in developed countries,” he stated.

“We need modern fishing equipment and boats to help us catch larger fish and supply them to the market, reducing reliance on meat and livestock in the state,” he added.

Garba noted that more people from local communities are visiting the riverbanks to purchase fish at affordable prices, especially as meat prices rise.

He highlighted that many marketers from across the state come to the riverbank to buy fish for distribution to various markets.

Mallam Muhammed Sani, a leader of the local fishermen’s association (Dabar-Dadda’u Mai-kifi Kaduna), also lamented the lack of funding for business expansion. He stated, “The absence of capital is a serious issue for us, and we urge all relevant stakeholders to support our efforts.”

He underscored the need for the state government to recognize the vital role fishermen play in providing fish and other food items.

“We supply fish to the entire state, and I can assure you that all our fish come from this area. Many buyers come here to purchase fish for resale.”

Another local fisherman, Mallam Isah Mohammed, who has been in the business for over 50 years, shared that many local fishermen continue to use traditional boats. He mentioned that while this year’s floods damaged crops, they also brought an influx of fish to the river.

“We need modern fishing equipment to expand our operations and increase our fish supply, which would help reduce dependence on meat and livestock,” he said.

The fishermen are calling on the state government to assist them in acquiring the latest fishing gear so they can provide more fish and food items to local communities.

The Kangimi Dam Fishermen Association (Dabar-Dadda’u Mai-kifi) has been active for over 45 years, with many youths and elders involved in the fishing industry.

2021 Billiri Crisis: Tangale Women Ask Gov Yahaya Of Gombe State To Release Report Of Commission Of Inquiry

Women under the auspices of Tangale Community Development Association (TCDA) have called on Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State to make public the report of the commission of inquiry into the 2021 Billiri crisis.

They made the call shortly after a meeting held in Billiri.

The women who expressed concern over misrepresentation of the crisis wondered how an attack by miscreants on Tangale women conducting peaceful protest turned out to be interpreted as religious crisis.

They said it remains a fact that Tangale women were conducting a peaceful protest over a rumour that Governor Yahaya was going to impose an unpopular candidate as Mai Tangle on the Tangale people when miscreants started attacking them, leading to burning of businesses and worship houses by yet to be identified persons.

They challenged the governor to quickly make public findings of the commission, since he was quick to pay compensation to the people who suffered losses.

The governor had disbursed over N500 million from Billiri Local Council money in the Joint State/LGA account to pay compensation to people who claimed damages in the Billiri crisis.

The TCDA women also called for the immediate release of those they refer to as “innocently incacerated” in connection with the crisis without trial, calling on the governor to go after the real culprits.

The lead speaker, Mrs. Mary Simon said, “We are parents, and are pained by the fact that our children are incacerated for an offense they did not commit.

“The government should go after the real people,” she said.

Also speaking, Malama Elizabeth said, “we are restless because of the Tangale people incacerated.

“Their wives and children have become miserable, and while in prison, some of them have even lost their parents, who died resulting from depression and the likes, because of the situation,” she said.

The women said the action taken by Governor Yahaya soon after the protest of imposing the same unpopular candidate on Tangale people have vindicated them.

However, an open letter recently written and released by Tangale elders and three other Tangale sociocultural groups said the person the governor announced as Mai Tangle is not a Tangale man.

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