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THE POSITION OF APC INITIATIVE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE APC-IGG AND APC-IGG PROFESSORS WING ON PLANNED NATION WIDE PROTEST

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THE POSITION OF APC INITIATIVE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE APC-IGG AND APC-IGG PROFESSORS WING ON PLANNED NATION WIDE PROTEST

It is important to remember that, much like Rome, economic recovery cannot happen overnight, but it requires a solid foundation. Nigerians will agree that President Tinubu inherited an economy on the brink of collapse, characterized by a high level of indebtedness, with over 90% of revenue mortgaged to both foreign and domestic loans. Despite these challenges, the government, under the banner of Renewed Hope, has implemented measures to reshape the country’s economy since May 2023. These measures are particularly aimed at providing a brighter future for Nigerian youth.

One notable measure is the intervention and capitalization of MSMEs, including a N200 billion fund for various business segments across the country. Specifically, N50 billion in grants have been disbursed to over one million nano businesses, equitably distributed across all local government areas. Additionally, N150 billion in single-digit interest rate loans have been provided to hundreds of thousands of MSMEs nationwide. This initiative emphasises the significant role of state and local government authorities in grassroots development.

Furthermore, N75 billion in loans of up to N1 million each has been distributed, along with another N75 billion allocated to large-scale manufacturers employing up to 1,000 Nigerians per industry. These loans, offered at a single-digit interest rate with a five-year moratorium, are crucial for business intervention and development.The administration’s efforts extend to alleviating the short-term impact of fuel subsidy removal. To mitigate this, the government has invested N100 billion between July 2023 and March 2024 to acquire 3,000 units of 20-seater CNG-fueled buses. These buses will be allocated to major transportation companies based on travel intensity per capita, with participating companies accessing credit at 9% per annum with a 60-month repayment period. This responsibility also falls on state and local governments to ensure citizens benefit directly.

Moreover, the government inaugurated the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC), involving a N2 trillion package with allocations for health and social welfare (N350 billion), agriculture and food security (N500 billion), the energy and power sector (N500 billion), and general business support (N650 billion).

To support indigent youths in tertiary institutions, President Tinubu signed the Access to Higher Education Act, 2023, on June 12, enabling students to access interest-free loans for their education.

Considering these efforts, it is essential to recognize that protests against the President might harm the economy. Instead, youths should focus on holding some of the state governors and local government chairmen accountable for economic failures, as most government policies are implemented through their channels.

The current administration, led by President Tinubu, has provided sufficient funds to state governors to meet their constituents’ demands. While the economy struggles, positive efforts by states can reduce the central government’s burden. Notably, the President has:

  • Allocated N30 billion to each state to address food scarcity and hardship.
  • Provided trailers of rice to each senator for their constituencies.
  • Introduced a monthly stipend of N35,000 for federal workers.
  • Distributed N430 billion among state governors.

The issue of local government autonomy is crucial to reducing neglect and poor economic management by state governors. While the new minimum wage of N70,000 is a step in the right direction, many states have yet to pay the previous N30,000 minimum wage, and youth protests on this matter have been sparse.

It is disappointing to see some of the state governors, who claim to be industrialists fail to manage state investments effectively, leading to over-reliance on FAAC and possibly subsequent bankruptcy. The President has laid a solid foundation for agricultural and electricity sector investments, yet few states have taken advantage of these opportunities. The pressure should not be solely on the President; state and local governments also play a crucial role.

In just one year, President Tinubu has made significant strides. State governors must be held accountable to support his efforts. If they do, Nigeria will undoubtedly improve.

Therefore, Nigerian youths should reconsider the path of agitation. Demand transparency and accountability from influencers and leaders. Opt for dialogue rather than protests. Nigeria’s renewed hope agenda promises a better future for all.
We however, also commend the laudable efforts of various state actors , the like of the Secretary to the government of the Federation, His Excellency Sen Dr George Akume of the skills and acumen he exhibited in mediation, negotiation and reconciliation with various labour leaders, which contributed tremendously, to the good and sustainable working relationship with the labour, as they disassociated with the protest.
That is the advantage of having experienced people in the government. Is like putting the square peg in a square hole.

Thank you.

Amb Musa Muhammed Tsoken National President, APC Initiative For Good Governance APC-IGG

THE POSITION OF APC INITIATIVE FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE APC-IGG AND APC-IGG PROFESSORS WING ON PLANNED NATION WIDE PROTEST

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Locals Cry Out for Help as Lakurawa Terrorists Menace Kebbi Villages Against Mechanized Farming

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Locals Cry Out for Help as Lakurawa Terrorists Menace Kebbi Villages Against Mechanized Farming

By Zagazola Makama

Residents of some villages plagued by the Lakurawa terrorists in Kebbi State have cried out to the Nigerian military and government to intervene and protect them from the terrorists who have been wreaking havoc in their communities.

The terrorists have issued a chilling warning to farmers in some villages in Augie Local Government Area, threatening to execute anyone who replaces their cattle-farming method with mechanized farming machines. This warning has sent shockwaves through the communities, which have already been devastated by massive cattle rustling carried out by the Lakurawa terrorists.

The terrorists’ actions have forced the villagers to dispose of their remaining cattle used for farming, and some were considering using small mechanized farming machines. However, the terrorists’ warning has made it clear that this option is no longer viable.

A source who reported the warning to the authorities said, “Now, the terrorists are dictating how we should farm, forbidding us from adopting modern farming methods that replace traditional farming with tools tied to cattle.” The source added, “When we farm with cattle, they come and seize them, and we’re large-scale farmers, farming for our needs and commercial purposes.”

The warning from the terrorists has created a sense of hopelessness among the villagers, who feel they are being strangled by the terrorists’ demands. They are desperate for the government and military to intervene and provide protection.

An intelligence source confirmed that the terrorists’ warning was indeed issued to the villages, and that anyone found not abiding by the warning will face severe consequences, including execution. However, the matter is receiving due security attention, offering some hope that the situation may be addressed soon.
End

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KSrelief to Drill 78 Solar-Powered Well Across 10 States in Nigeria

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KSrelief to Drill 78 Solar-Powered Well Across 10 States in Nigeria

By: Michael Mike

The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has concluded plan to drill 78 medium-depth, solar-powered well across 10 states of Nigeria.

The Centre has signed a cooperation agreement via video conference on Tuesday with a civil society organisation to implement the project.

According to a statement from the Centre, the initiative is expected to benefit approximately 733,350 individuals.

KSrelief’s Assistant Supervisor General for Operations and Programmes, Eng. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Baiz signed the agreement at KSrelief’s headquarters in Riyadh.

The agreement is aimed to provide safe drinking water for both people and livestock, support domestic water needs, and enhance water access in low-income areas.

It also seeks to reduce the spread of waterborne infections and parasitic disease vectors, ultimately helping to save lives, particularly among infants.

Additionally, the project contributes to improved nutrition by providing a reliable source of clean water.

The statement said the initiative is part of a broader range of humanitarian and relief projects in the water and sanitation sector, implemented by the Kingdom through KSrelief, aimed at improving the quality of life and reducing the spread of diseases and epidemics in vulnerable countries worldwid

KSrelief to Drill 78 Solar-Powered Well Across 10 States in Nigeria

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Nigeria Finalizes Evacuation of Citizens from Israel, Iran as Crisis Escalates

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Nigeria Finalizes Evacuation of Citizens from Israel, Iran as Crisis Escalates

By: Michael Mike

The Nigerian government has finalized arrangements for the emergency evacuation of stranded Nigerians in Israel and Iran as crisis between the two nations escalate with incessant bombings.

The arrangements of the Nigerian government was communicated on Wednesday signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

The statement read: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that following the escalation of the crisis between the State of Israel and Islamic Republic of Iran, the Federal Government is finalizing arrangements for the emergency evacuation of stranded Nigerians in both countries.

“All affected Nigerian citizens are therefore strongly advised to abide by necessary security protocols and contact the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission for registration and further instructions.

“The Ministry commends the efforts put in place by our Missions in Tel Aviv, Israel and Tehran, Iran for their dedication and commitment to reaching out to the Nigerian Community in these difficult times.

“We wish to assure the general public that the Federal Government of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and welfare of all its citizens, both at home and abroad, and is working in close coordination with relevant international partners and local authorities to ensure the timely and secure evacuation of Nigerians in affected areas.”

The statement added: “In the same vein, the Government of Nigeria reiterates its call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and urges all parties involved to embrace dialogue, respect international humanitarian law and prioritize the protection of civilians.

“Nigeria stands firm in its support for the peaceful resolution of conflicts and reaffirms its longstanding commitment to regional and global peace and stability.”

The government promised to provide further updates from time to time through official channels as operations progress.

Nigeria Finalizes Evacuation of Citizens from Israel, Iran as Crisis Escalates

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