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SPPG holds 2024 Conference in Abuja, October
SPPG holds 2024 Conference in Abuja, October
By: Michael Mike
As political, economic, and social crises continue to ravage Africa, the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) is set to host its 2024 Africa Conference from 3rd to 4th October, 2024, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, with the aim to rethink governance and leadership in Africa.
The conference, which is expected to bring together value-orientated politicians, policymakers, and civil society leaders from across the continent, will also see participants connect, share insights, and develop actionable solutions to the governance challenges facing Africa today.
Former Minister of Education and founder of SPPG, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, while giving views about the conference, said the time has come for Africa to bring on board leaders who are courageous, can change the narrative, and will prioritise citizens’ welfare and interest above self-interest.
According to the World Food Programme (WFP), Africa faces a complex confluence of crises, including an alarming food and nutrition emergency and also regional insecurity, climate-related disasters, the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, and global economic disruptions that have combined to exacerbate governance challenges. Protests and unrest, driven by electoral disputes, governance failures, and rising living costs, have erupted in countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, and Tunisia, with a surge in coups in the Sahel since 2020.
The WFP added that since 2020, multiple coups d’état in the Sahel region and widespread civil unrest from Nigeria to Tunisia have demonstrated the urgent need for a reformed governance model that centres on African citizens. Civil society organisations and social movements across the continent are sounding the alarm, calling for more inclusive, citizen-focused leadership.
Despite these challenges, however, African civil society and social movements have consistently called for a transformation of the continent’s governance systems. They advocate for a future where the interests of African citizens are at the heart of decision-making, driven by effective and accountable leadership.
“Africa Conference 2024 presents a unique platform for leaders who are committed to disruption, not for disruption’s sake, but for the transformation and betterment of our nations.
“At a time when our continent faces multiple crises, we need leaders who possess both the values and the courage to reimagine governance, prioritise citizens’ interests and foster resilience,” Ezekwesili, a leading advocate for transparent governance, said.
The two-day event will feature expert panels, facilitated discussions, and breakout sessions designed to explore innovative solutions to Africa’s governance challenges. These sessions will focus on political leadership, institutions and policies, and citizen engagement. The event will also include a Citizens’ Solidarity Walk, symbolising participants’ commitment to building connections and reinforcing solidarity across Africa.
The conference, which has its theme titled “Good Governance in Africa: Leaders and Citizens Driving Systematic Change,” will have a Member of Parliament for Klottey Korie Constituency, Accra, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, as key note speaker.
Also to speak at the event among others are Adama Gaye, Co-convener, Fixpolitics & SPPG Senegal; Gift ‘Ostallos’ Siziba, Member of Parliament-elect, Pelandaba-Tshabalala Constituency, Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe; Lahiani Najla, Member of Tunisian Parliament; Ambassador Erastus Nwencha, member, Fixpolitics & SPPG, Kenya; Comrade Reagan Miviri, Executive Director, La Lucha, DR Congo; Ayobami Olunloyo, SPPG Alumnus; Dr Abiola Akiyode, Dean, SPPG Nigeria; Alero Ayida-Otobo, CEO, The SPPG; Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, Founder and Chair, Fixpolitics & The SPPG.
According to the organisers, through discussions and collaborative efforts, Africa Conference 2024 aims to develop strategies for systemic change that will influence governance in the short, medium, and long term with the objective to build a future where political leadership, institutions, and policies work effectively for the people and not against them.
SPPG holds 2024 Conference in Abuja, October
Troops nutrialised several Boko Haram terrorists in Yobe
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have nutrialised several Boko Haram terrorists after it successfully repelled a terrorist ambush along the Longlari–Kanama road in Yunusari Local Government Area of Yobe State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 5:23 p.m. on March 14 when troops of the 159 Battalion Nigerian Army, B Company, stationed in Kanama, were returning from a routine patrol.
.According to the sources, the troops were ambushed by suspected terrorists along the Longlari–Kanama road near Mairari village.
The troops engaged the terrorists with heavy fire and neutralized several of them forcing many of them fo flee.
Following the encounter, the soldiers conducted exploitation of the general area to track the fleeing insurgents.
Troops nutrialised several Boko Haram terrorists in Yobe
Zulum Condemns Maiduguri Explosion, Calls for Calm, Vigilance in Worship, Public Places
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has condemned in the strongest terms the explosion that occurred in some parts of the metropolis on Monday evening.
Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel, and cowardly, targeting innocent people in the holy month of Ramadan.
In a statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship, as the festive period beckons.
“I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening.
My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric, and inhumane,” said Zulum.
He added, “The recent surge in attacks is not unconnected with intense military operations in the Sambisa forest and other hideouts of the insurgents.
The Governor, therefore, assured people of the state that the military and other security agencies are on top of the situation, as adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach in Maiduguri and the entire state.
He called on residents to remain calm, go about their usual activities, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.
Zulum Condemns Maiduguri Explosion, Calls for Calm, Vigilance in Worship, Public Places
GOC 8 Division visits troops in Kebbi, urges vigilance in operations
By: Zagazola Makama
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 of Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj. Gen. PB Koughna, has conducted a familiarisation visit to troops deployed in parts of Kebbi State.
During the visit on March 15, the GOC inspected troops of CSI Battalion III at the Forward Operating Base Dirin Daji in Sakaba area of Zuru Local Government Area, as well as personnel of 223 Light Tank Battalion in the state.
The GOC was received by the Commanding Officers of the units, who briefed him on their operational activities and security situation within their areas of responsibility.
Addressing the troops, Maj. Gen. Koughna urged them to remain vigilant, committed and professional in the discharge of their duties.
He also held an operational meeting with the unit commanders, during which issues relating to ongoing operations and prevailing security challenges within their areas of responsibility were discussed.
The visit ended without incident.
GOC 8 Division visits troops in Kebbi, urges vigilance in operations
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Troops nutrialised several Boko Haram terrorists in Yobe
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