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IBOM INK ONLINE CAMPAIGN FOR THE GOOD DEVELOPMENT LANDMARKS OF HER EXCELLENCY, DR. MRS. MARTHA UDOM EMMANUEL / CHAIRPERSON, FEYReP AKS.
ABOUT FEYReP Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Programme (FEYReP) is a social intervention pet Project Programme of Her Excellency, Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel, Wife of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State,that is out to create robust Economic Empowerment for Families and also achieve vigorous Reorientation of the Youth against all forms of Decadence.
Watch this space!!!
FEYReP!!!Putting smiles on the face of the masses!!.
Reps set to pass 7 bills on overlapping security agencies’ roles
Barring any last development, the House of Representatives will list seven Bills on security for second reading before it goes on its annual vacation on Thursday, it was learnt.
According to a National Assembly source familiar with the development, the decision of the House to list and pass the Bills for second reading was due to the prevailing precarious security challenges confronting the country.
The Bills are the Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; Police Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; National Security and Civil Defence Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; Customs and Excise Management Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, The Ammunition and Other Related Materials (Ratification and Enforcement) Bill, 2021; Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
“The Bills will be listed and read for second reading on or before Thursday.
“This is because the issue at stake. Overlapping roles of security agencies in the country has been identified as a major factor militating against a seamless and successful joint operation of the military and paramilitary apparatus in their quest to curb insecurity and economic sabotage in the country.
“As a result, the House leadership and the House at large are determined to remove the constitutional impediments restraining the expected collaboration between them (security agencies),” the source said.
The chairman, House Committee on Legislative Agenga Monitoring and Implementation, Hon. Henry Nwawuba also confirmed the development saying, “Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business, Hon Abubakar Fulata has given me his words that the Bills would be listed for second reading. It is then up to us to pass the Bills, which I am very optimistic would not be a problem,” Nwawuba said.
According to the lawmaker, the House, in its bid to reposition the security architecture of the Nigerian security apparatus had taken some steps by convening a national summit on security recently.
“The fallout was the Bills resulted from the summit and they have gone through the first reading.
In addition, and to perfect the details of the Bills, Chairmen and members of security-related Committees in the House, in collaboration with the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) and Konrad Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) just concluded a retreat in Lagos where the amendments to critical laws of all the identified security agencies were comprehensively debated, discussed.
“The highlight of the retreat was the commitment of the Committee on Legislative Agenda Monitoring and Implementation and Rules and Business to get the Bills listed for second reading.
“We have done our homework and I am optimistic that the Bills would be passed because we are all on the same page on the need to holistically address the security in the country, we can’t leave everything to the Executive.”
FELICITATION MESSAGE TO A NATIONAL FIGURE/ PERFORMING GOVERNOR
Dear boss, you have exhibited uncommon wisdom, remarkable vision, and exemplary leadership. You are a role model to those seeking to understand how to make an impact with their lives and of others.
As you mark your years of existence on Earth today, I heartfully, respectfully, humbly and boldly seize this opportunity on behalf of my family and the entire people of Oruk Anam LG. to wish a leader per-excellence, Peculiar Boss, and replica of positivism a happy birthday.
May you have many more years and sound health to stay with us and continue to lead, may heaven cause this day to continuously bless, uplift, promote, protect and preserve you in all your dealings.
Happy Birthday Mr. Industrialisation, Infrastructural Consolidator, Human Capacity Developer and the Uncommon Wealth Creator. His Excellency, Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Rt. Hon. (Dr) Kingsley Frank Executive Chairman Oruk Anam L.G.A
Here is echoing 55 hearty cheers to a man of destiny and impact; a leader par excellence, a peacemaker, development oriented leader and an urbane personage who has put Akwa Ibom state on a global pedestal.
On behalf of the people of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, I join the host of heaven to wish our dear Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, a happy birthday.
Rep. Unyime Idem Member Representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency
IBOM INK ONLINE CAMPAIGN FOR THE GOOD DEVELOPMENT LANDMARKS OF HER EXCELLENCY, DR. MRS. MARTHA UDOM EMMANUEL / CHAIRPERSON, FEYReP AKS.
ABOUT FEYReP Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Programme (FEYReP) is a social intervention pet Project Programme of Her Excellency, Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel, Wife of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State,that is out to create robust Economic Empowerment for Families and also achieve vigorous Reorientation of the Youth against all forms of Decadence.
Watch this space!!!
FEYReP!!!Putting smiles on the face of the masses!!.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Every epic hero began their world-changing-journey by answering the call to adventure. The road is often full of trials and tests that mold the hero’s character so that he or she will be equipped to face the regional-enemy-strongman and bring deliverance and freedom to their people and ultimately establish their own kingdom of light in the place of the kingdom of darkness that would oppress and terrorize the land.
As believers we are called to be Heroes, who by answering the call to adventure with Jesus, we embark on an epic quest empowered by the Holy Spirit to be the hope for the poor, freedom for the brokenhearted, new eyes for the blind and to preach to prisoners, the day of thier redemption.
We are warriors of light sent to dispel the darkness and bring down personal, generational and regional demonic strongholds in order to establish heaven on earth, break the curse and loose blessings over the land.
Dear reader, cowards do not make history. Heroes on the other hand go down in history, but a Hero is admired for their surrender to suffer and face their greatest fears for a greater cause.
Today, we are each called on an epic quest to bring heaven to earth, to make Christ known and to destroy the works of hell. We are invited to see ourselves as God has made us, Heroes of Heaven, Overcoming Conquerers, Knighted Kings and Priests and Valiant Victors in a storyline where we already know the end!
The end is that WE WIN!
In other for you go out in boldness, Beloved! Join us tommorow, Sunday 11th July 2021 LIVE!
The Woman of God, EILEEN BASANG BASANG will be teaching you on:
“HOW TO OVERCOME YOUR TRIALS AND COME OUT VICTORIOUS IN LIFE”
Don’t miss it for anything, because, you can’t loose in Jesus mightiest name! Amen!
Dr. Glory Edet Awards Scholarship to Master David Etim
In a show of solidarity and compassion, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, today Saturday July 10, 2021, visited the family of late Mr David Etim Ekpenyong of Mbiabong Ikot Udofia, Ini LGA, who lost his life during an attack on the Divisional Police Headquarters of Ini.
The Agriculture Boss expressed her sympathy to the family, especially the mother, his son, brothers, sisters and friends of late David Ekpenyong who lost his life in the gory incident. She also used the occasion to call on natives of Ini to remain vigilante in their everyday life and to volunteer any useful information to the appropriate authority. Furthermore, Dr. Edet promised to take over full sponsorship of master David David Etim’ education who is the son of the deceased from his current class, JSS one to University level
Ibom Voice Media Crew felicitate with the most performing, indefatigable, all-inclusive, people’s oriented, media friendly, indigenous friendly, non-indegenous friendly and un-flabbergasted Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel
H-Excellency, having observed with keen interest, your landmark achievements over the years to the people of Akwa Ibom State in the Area of Industrialisation, Education, Health, Lands and Housing, Science and Technology, Culture and Tourism, Manpower Development and workers Welfare, Agriculture, Security, Law and Order, Transport, Aviation Development, Power, Economic and Entrepreneurship Development, Environment and Waste Management, Youth and Sport, Information Management, Rural Development, Revenue, Financial Management, amongst others
We are convinced you; …have all the pre-requisite qualifications as a Seasoned Political Administrator with administrative acumen and managerial dexterity. …are an outstanding administrator per-excellence with ingenuity and charismatic dispositions for effective representation. …are a seasoned administrator with versatile knowledge, experience, professionalism, intelligence, strategies and capacities to transform, liberate and emancipate Akwa Ibom State for the overall interest of the people. …are a Governor with administrative and operational blueprints
H-Excellency, you have provided Akwa Ibom State with the Oxygen to breath in the face of daunting challenges, surmounted unsurmountable difficulties and set Akwa Ibom State on the right side of history.
Therefore, on behalf of Ibom Voice Media Crew, I wish to you a Happy birthday, I wish to you many more years and i wish to you graceful age.
UKAI BAGS HEROES AND SAFETY AMBASSADORS AWARD 2021
…dedicates Award to Governor Emmanuel for sustaining Peace and Security
Anietie Essia, Uyo
The Immediate Past Acting Chairman of Uyo Local Government Council, Otuekong Hon. Ukai Udeme Emmanuel has again bagged the 2021 Heroes and Ambassadors Award to among his galleries of historical and outstanding awards.
The event held on Saturday at De-Castle Luxury Home-Annex in Uyo witnessed prominent and famous Akwa Ibom Business men and women, political and other people in the Private sector.
Organized by Safe At Schools Initiative, a Non-Governmental organization in the country bestowed on Hon. Ukai Udeme Emmanuel Prestigious Heroes and Ambassadors Award in recognition of his Hard work, Dedications, Selflessness, Sacrifices, and adding Excellent Value in the area of Empowerment, especially youths and women Empowerment, also making sure that Nigerians Stay Safe during this period, which has today transmitted into Safety of Lives and Property in Nigeria.
Otuekong Ukai Udeme Emmanuel in his remarks thanked the organizers for choosing him among equals noting that the greatest investment in life is to invest in humanity and dedicated the award to His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State.
Otuekong Ukai Udeme stated that Governor Udom Emmanuel since the inception of his administration in 2015 has maintained, sustained and retained Peace cum security in the state which the sustainability of the above has attracted investors into the state for investment to thrive.
He recount how Akwa Ibom State was nationally noted for child trafficking, arm robbery, kidnapping human assassinations, cultism, destruction of both lives and property added that Mr. Udom Emmanuel being a peace loving Governor came and totally eradicated those inhumane practice which today Akwa Ibom has been recognized and rated as the most peaceful states in the African region.
The Former Uyo Local Government Council helsman used the occasion to advise parents and guardians to take proactive measures to teach their wards good morals since charity they say begins at home while adding that the government will ensure that their primary responsibility to protect the lives and property of her citizens is duly maintained.
He however reiterated his commitment to contribute positively towards the advancement, growth and development of the Safte At Schools Initiative to fight against social vices in schools with the aid of creating awareness through different forms of campaigns and sensitizations on the dangers of cultism in institutions and other social vices in the society to have a better, peaceful and a well secured state.
Reps would resolve overlapping mandates of security agencies – Gbajabiamila
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, said on Friday, that the Lower Chamber will take some far-reaching security measures in its commitment to support the Executive in addressing the security challenges confronting the country.
He explained that the interventions by the House were necessary because finding solutions to the challenges was a collective responsibility.
Gbajabiamila was speaking in Lagos on Friday where he declared open a two-day National Security Legislative Reform retreat.
The speaker noted that the initiative was another “evidence of our commitment in the 9th House of Representatives to doing what is required of us to make sure our country can overcome the serious national security challenges that currently threaten the safety and wellbeing of our people.”
Participants will use the retreat to review seven bills with overlapping mandates on security, intelligence and the related agencies.
We will give account for our time in govt – Gbajabiamila to APC
The bills include the Armed Forces Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; Police Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; National Security and Civil Defence Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; Customs and Excise Management Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, The Ammunition and Other Related Materials (Ratification and Enforcement) Bill, 2021; Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021; and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
Gbajabiamila said, “How best to ensure the objectives of our national security and ensure that the men and women who live and work in our country can have full lives, free from the terror imposed by marauders and fundamentalists is now the defining question of our national life.
“How we answer this question and our ability to overcome the evident challenges of the moment will determine whether or not we can educate our children, attract investment to grow the economy, build critical national infrastructure, create jobs and ensure the continued and prosperous existence of our republic”.
The speaker, who was represented by the Deputy Minority Leader of the House, Rep. Toby Okechukwu, noted that even if the House was constitutionally handicapped in taking certain necessary actions to address the issue, it would not fold its arms and watch insecurity spiralling out of control.
He stated, “In the legislature, we do not control armies, we cannot deploy men and equipment to fight insurgencies and to prevent the taking over of spaces by bandits, criminals and assorted bad actors.
“Our power, and therefore our responsibility, lies in our constitutional mandate to make laws for the good governance of the country. And we serve this mandate by convening ourselves and others in programmes like this, to critically consider problems, advance solutions and agree on a joint strategy for law making, for oversight and collaboration with the executive.”
According to Gbajabiamila, the objective of the retreat is to review each of the seven bills, with a view to eliciting discussions that will culminate in the passage of a series of legislation that will strengthen the efforts of the executive in tackling insecurity.
The speaker explained, “We do this so that by the time we return to Abuja, we will together and individually work to rapidly advance these reform proposals through the legislative process, with a clear-eyed understanding of the fact that the work we do on these bills will go a long way in ensuring that our country can defeat the forces of violence and strife that challenge us and threaten our peaceful prosperity.
“In addition to reviewing the bills under consideration, this retreat is an opportunity for us to propose and consider additional security reform suggestions.”
Gbajabiamila appreciated the collaborative efforts of the House Committee on Monitoring and Implementation of the Legislative Agenda, National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Foundation (KAS) and other contributors for the vision to review of the bills, adding that they reflected the recommendations for legislative action made by security/policy experts at the recently-concluded Special Summit on National Security held in Abuja.
“We are, all of us, partners in the joint task of nation-building, and it is a thing of great joy when we gather together like this with a clear vision, and evident passion to make good the lives of men and women in our beloved country”, the speaker added.
The Chairman, House Committee on Monitoring and Implementation of Legislative Agenda, Rep. Henry Nwawuba, said the reasons for the gathering was to meet the House of Representatives’ commitment to security sector reform and also to ensure that the bills under consideration could quickly pass through the legislative process for implementation.
In his opening remarks, NILDS’ Director-General (DG), Abubakar Suleiman, said overlapping and poor understanding of mandates often led to conflicts in many developing countries, mainly due to the long stay of the military in power.
According to him, the institute joined other critical stakeholders to address the issue so as to find collective solutions to the security challenges.
On the essence of the collaboration, the Resident Representative of Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung, Dr Vladimir Kreck, said inter-agency collaboration and overlapping mandates were not strange developments.
“To overcome rivalry between agencies and to induce synergies, a regulatory framework is necessary, defining the modes of collaboration.
“It is against this backdrop that in 2020, our organisation commissioned a survey on overlapping mandates of security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies in Nigeria. The analysis of the constitutional and statutory provisions of security agencies illustrated not only the areas of conflicting mandates but also the need for legislative actions in order to provide agencies with a framework that enables synergies and joint approaches.”
Among those attending the retreat are Reps Abdul Majid Adekoya, Deputy Minority Whip; Abdulrazak Namdas, Chairman, House Committee on Army; Abubakar Fulata, Chairman Rules and Business Committee; Francis Agbo, Chairman, Committee on Drug Law and Narcotics; Leke Abejide, Chairman, Customs and Excise Committee; Gaza Gwefi, Chairman, Committee on Legislative Library, Research and Documentation; Nicholas Ossai, Chairman, Committee on Treaties, Protocols and Agreement; and Victor Nwokolo, Chairman, Banking and Currency.
Locate Proposed Federal University in Nkari, INI Lawmaker Appeals
The member Representing INI State Constituency and the Chief Whip, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Bassey has appealed to the Federal Government of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State Government and the Federal Ministry of Education to consider Nkari in INI Local Government Area as the best location for the proposed Federal University of Technology.
Speaking with journalists in Uyo, the lawmaker said this will naturally put an end to over two decades of communal clashes between Nkari and Usaka, a neighbouring community in Abia State which has led to loss of lives and property.
He noted that ‘the indigenes of the area (Nkari) are now living in fear due to incessant and perpetual attacks. They can no longer go to the farm and market. Movement from one place to another within the area is done with utmost caution, which has brought untold hardship and sufferings upon the indigenes.’
He further said ‘Nkari is blessed with abundant natural resources and hardworking people and is tipped to be pivotal to economic development and advancement of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large, but hampered by the impending crisis that has engulfed all nooks and crannies of the area.’
On several occasions, Rt Hon Bassey said he has reached out to the National Boundary Commission to come for proper demarcation of the boundary, but ‘it seems they are acting in a slow pace which is not good at providing solution to the crises, as there are continuous attacks on the people of Nkari, and they get killed almost on daily basis.’
He, therefore, urge the government to locate the proposed Institution in the area as a means of having a long lasting solution to the perennial impasse.
“It is my belief and conviction that Government will look in this direction and use this opportunity to end the crises once and for all by taking over the land and sitting the Proposed Federal University of Technology there so as to serve as a buffer between the neighbouring communities.,” he concluded.
AKWA IBOM GOVT ORDERS REINSTATEMENT OF EXPELLED VARSITY STUDENT
The Akwa Ibom State Government has directed the Akwa Ibom State University to immediately recall Iniobong Ekpo, a student expelled for allegedly insulting the Governor Udom Emmanuel on the social media.
The decision follows the review of a report submitted to the State Executive Council by the Commissioner for Education, Mrs Idongesit Etiebet who chaired the panel to review the circumstances leading to the said student’s expulsion.
The Special Committee which was given two weeks for facts finding on the expulsion, had interviewed the embattled student as well as principal staff of the University.
Although the details of its recommendations were not made public, Governor Udom Emmanuel who has repeatedly showed his passion in educational advancement and human capital development programmes for young people in the state, immediately ordered that the student be allowed back on campus by the University to continue his studies.
Governor Emmanuel also announced that the Ikot Oku Ikono flyover project is ready and will be commissioned on July 16, 2021 by noon.
Briefing journalists on the outcome of the meeting, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy Mr Ini Ememobong said August 21, 2021 has been approved as the state coconut day, when 300,000 nuts will be planted to boost coconut production in preparation for the start of operations of the State owned coconut oil refinery at Mkpat Enin..
2021 Budget: House approves $6.1bn external borrowing
08/07/2021
The House of Representatives has approved the $6.183 billion External Borrowing request by President Muhammadu Buhari to finance the deficit in the 2021 budget.
The borrowing was already captured in the N13.6 trillion budget as a financing window.
At its plenary in Abuja on Thursday, the House considered and approved the report of the Committee on Aids, Loans and Debt Management, which gave the nod to the presidential request.
The borrowing will be implemented through the issuance of Eurobond in the International Capital Market.
The recommendations of the committee, presented to the House by its Chairman, Rep. Ahmed Safana Dayyabu, read, “That the House consider and (i) approve the request of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the issuance of $3,000,000,000 (Three Billion USD) but no more than $6,183,081,643.40 billion (Six Billion, One Hundred and Eighty-Three Billion, and Eighty-One Thousand, Six Hundred and Forty-Three USD and Forty Cents) Eurobond in the International Capital Market for the implementation of the new External Borrowing to part-finance the deficit authorized in the 2021 Appropriation Act; (ii) also approve that the amount authorized above may be raised from multiple sources such as the International Capital Market and any other Multilateral or Bilateral sources as may be available; “(iii) direct the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, the Director-General of the Debt Management Office and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria to submit to the National Assembly within 10 (Ten) working days (excluding the day of the close of Trading) a letter containing the United States Dollar amount so raised and received as a result of the above approval together with the applicable Exchange Rate.”
The House, which was presided over by the Speaker, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila, also passed the 2021 Supplementary Budget for Third Reading.
Lawmakers passed N982.729bn as the supplementary budget, up from N894.842bn earlier submitted by the Executive.
The Deputy Speaker, Rep. Ahmed Idris Wase, later presided over the Committee on Supplies and the Committee of the Whole after the House suspended its rule in the absence of Gbajabiamila, having excused himself to attend to other official matters.
MEETING OF THE AKWA IBOM STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HELD ON THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 AT THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE, UYO.
The meeting which was presided by HE the Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, had in attendance,HE the Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Head of the Civil Service, Honourable Commissioners and Special Adviser. It commenced at 9am with the rendition of the National and State Anthems; the opening prayer was worded by Akparawa Ephraim Inyangeyen(Chief of Staff to the Governor).
CHAIRMAN’S OPENING REMARKS The Governor, sitting as Chairman-in-Council urged members to continue to pray for the country as the economic situation in the country was of great concern. He called for both individual and collective responsibility in our efforts at nation building. He promised that more industries will birth soonest, as talks are still ongoing with different investors. He gave briefings on the state of security of the state and the Country. He charged members to pay attention to and mobilize people to participate in the Enumeration Area Demarcation and Continuous Voter Registration ongoing .
DECISIONS
The Governor informed that the Ikot Oku Ikono flyover will be commissioned on July 16, 2021 by noon.
EXCO reviewed the AKSU expulsion case of Iniobong Ekpo and directed the University to immediately recall the said student.
EXCO Declared August 21, 2021 as the state coconut day, when 300,000 nuts will be planted to boost coconut production in preparation for the start of operation of the coconut oil refinery.
The Half year ministerial reports from all Ministries and Bureau were received.
Since education is free in the state, the maximum age for admission into secondary schools has been pegged at 12 years, to curb the cultism surge in secondary schools. Investigation has revealed that the surge is caused mainly by overaged students who are on a mission of mass recruitment of students into cult groups. However, any student above this age with a genuine reason, will have their parents sign an undertaking of good behaviour, before their admission.
The meeting came to a close at 3:14pm with the closing prayer worded by the Head of the Civil service, Elder Effiong Essien.
Signed:
Comrade Ini Ememobong Honourable Commissioner for Information &Strategy Akwa Ibom State
🇳🇬\/🇬🇭 Nigeria, Ghana put mechanism to end trade dispute
…inaugurate parliamentary friendship group
Nigeria and Ghana have put in place a mechanism to end the trade dispute between Nigerian traders and the Ghanaian authorities, the Speakers of the Parliaments of the two countries have said.
The dispute arose from the $1million business participation fee introduced by the Ghanaian authorities, required of foreigners to pay before they can do business in Ghana.
Speaking at a press conference after a closed-door diplomatic meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila and the Speaker of the Parliament of Ghana Hon. Alban Sumana Bagbin, said the trade dispute would soon become history.
“We got assurance from both sides that the issue of trade dispute will be a thing of the past. We’re now putting up a mechanism to make sure that these issues don’t come up again in the future”, Hon. Bagbin said.
Earlier, Rep. Gbajabiamila said the closed-door meeting they held was a successful one as issues of interest to both countries were discussed.
“We’ve more or less concluded the roadmap to achieve lasting solutions to the diplomatic issues with our traders.
“The issue with our traders and the Ghanaian authorities has been addressed today. The Minister of Trade and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs were at the meeting.
“There is a technical committee set up. They will be going to Ghana next week to dot the ‘Is’ and cross the ‘Ts'”, he said.
Gbajabiamila also announced that the two parliaments had established and inaugurated a parliamentary friendship group that would hold talks on the relationship between the two countries.
He spoke more, “We’ve inaugurated the friendship group, and they will start talking on behalf of the two Parliaments.
“I want to thank you, the Hon. Speaker, for your kind words and your determination to see an end to the issue.
“The issue of the Nigerian embassy in Ghana, the Ghanaian authorities have accepted to take responsibility, though it has nothing to do with them, but they said they will put it back.
“We went beyond Nigeria-Ghana relationship. We also talked about CoSAP. Other issues will be addressed by the two friendship groups.”
Responding, Hon. Bagbin said: “I want to sincerely thank you so much for the invitation. I can only confirm that everything will be put in place to address the issue of trade between our two countries.
“Let’s ensure that the relationship between Ghana and Nigeria remains cordial and mutual. I thank the Speaker for his commitment and enthusiasm on this matter.”
Earlier, Hon. Bagbin addressed members of the House at plenary, where he said Ghana and Nigeria had come a long way and that the relationship between the two countries would continue to be cordial and mutual.
He said despite the commonalities between the two countries, “it is important to mention at this stage, that relations between our two countries have not always been smooth. Consistent with the tongue and teeth metaphor which has it that even though the tongue and teeth play complementary roles in the digestive process, they come into conflict occasionally. Similarly, our relations have had its own challenges every now and then.”
However, he noted that the two countries had been able to address whatever issues that came up between them in the past and that they should be able to do that currently.
He gave details, “The issue of Nigerian traders in Ghana; it is on this basis that I commend my brother and colleague, Rt. Hon.Gbajabiamila, and my predecessor, Rt. Hon. Professor Aaron Michael Oquaye, for their noble efforts in pursuing Parliamentary Diplomacy towards finding a lasting solution to the trade impasse between some Ghanaian and Nigerian traders in Ghana.
“The conclusions you arrived at, which were encapsulated in the joint communique issued after the visit, provided the basis for redefining our relations, in terms of our history of cooperation, to forge a better future for the citizenry of our two nations. These conclusions were reinforced by the communique issued after the recent meeting between our ministers responsible for Trade on the sides of the Extraordinary ECOWAS Summit on the Political Situation in Mali held on 31st May 2021 in Accra.
“Rt. Hon. Speaker, I am here just to help bring finality to the impasse. I pledge my commitment and that of the Parliament of Ghana, to contribute in every way possible to end the impasse between traders of our two sister countries.
“In furtherance of that, under my leadership, the Parliament of Ghana has appointed a seven-member committee as Ghana’s delegation to the Joint Committee of Eminent Persons of our Legislatures. They will interact with their Nigerian counterparts towards passing the ‘Ghana-Nigeria Friendship Act.’
“The Act will set up the proposed ‘Ghana-Nigeria Business Council’, which is intended to provide the legal and institutional framework to sustain the continued friendship and business interests of our people.”
He also appealed to “review the prohibition list banning the importation of specific goods and commodities into the Nigerian market from other countries, including Ghana. This request is underscored by the resolution as captured in the communique of 31st May 2021 referred to supra.”
Signed: Lanre Lasisi, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Speaker, House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria
YOU ARE A GOD-DRIVEN COMMISSIONER – SIR ESIN NKERUWEM TO COMRADE INI EMEMOBONG
“You are a God-drven Commissioner”, were those words that came out from the mouth of Sir Dr. Esin Nkeruwem, after moments of gazing surprisingly at Comrade Ini Ememobong, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, in the evening of Wednesday 7th July in Uyo.
The occasion was a birthday visit to Sir Dr. Esin Nkeruwem, a one-time Commissioner of Information, in his Uyo residence, in keeping with the tradition of the Ministry of paying visits to past political heads of the Ministry, since the assumption of office as the Commissioner for Information and Strategy by Comrade Ini Ememobong.
“When I heard of the things you do, especially that, you were seeing past Commissioners of the Ministry during that Christmas period and on their birthdays, I said to myself, I want to know that Commissioner”, Dr. Esin Nkeruwem said.
“So when I received a call that, you will be celebrating my birthday with me today, I was just elated and waited to see you. You are God-driven. May God bless you and bless the entire Ministry”, Sir Dr. Nkeruwem prayed.
The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comrade Ini Ememobong who had led the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Inyang Jameson and Management staff on the birthday visit, said, it was a tradition of the Ministry to pay homage to past Political heads of the Ministry in recognition of their contributions toward the development and growth of the Ministry and State at large.
Comrade Ini Ememobong expressed delight that, he met his predecessor-in-line with his family in good health and prayed God to keep him to enjoy many more happy years ahead as he continues to lend his experience and expertise towards the efficient running of the machinery of government.
On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Inyang Jameson, who recalled that he was an Information Officer1, back then, when Sir Dr. Esin Nkeruwem was the Commissioner for Information, thank
BENUE STATE HIGH COURT SETS ASIDE BAN ON USE OF MOTORCYCLES IN UKUM AND KATSINA-ALA LGAs AND DECLARES THE BAN UNCONSTITUTIONAL.
The Benue State High Court of Justice, holden at Gboko on 7th July, 2021, nullified the ban on the use of motorcycles in Ukum and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State, declared the ban as illegal, unlawful, unconstitutional, null and void and further restrained the Respondents comprising the Governor of Benue State and other security operatives from further impounding motorcycles in those areas.
The learned Judge of the High Court found and held that without a law made by the Benue State House of Assembly authorising the said action by the Government of Benue State and security operatives, it was unlawful and unconstitutional for the Government to ban the citizens from using motorcycles in those parts.
It would be recalled that sometime on the 05/01/2021 my humble self had dragged the Governor of Benue State, the Attorney- General and other security operatives to court for imposing a ban on the use of motorcycles in (then only)Katsina-Ala and Ukum LGAs without first putting in place a law to authorize them in that behalf.
Most sadly, following the illegal and unconstitutional act aforesaid, security operatives, on the nod and assent of the Benue State Government, went beserk on the frolick of arbitrarily impounding all motorcycles and randomly arresting citizens who flouted the ban, burning some motorcycles in the process.
With the decision handed down today and upon service of same on the appropriate authorities it is expected the Government as a law-abiding institution would lift the ban forthwith.
Meanwhile, I’m heavily indebted to all who by assent or dissent assisted in the pursuit of Justice in this matter, most especially my most revered learned senior, Amaatimin Tertsegha Timothy. Sir, the recent authority you graciously commended to me made my Lord’s “hands tied” to do the needful. I’m grateful.
BENUE STATE HIGH COURT SETS ASIDE BAN ON USE OF MOTORCYCLES IN UKUM AND KATSINA-ALA LGAs AND DECLARES THE BAN UNCONSTITUTIONAL.
The Benue State High Court of Justice, holden at Gboko on 7th July, 2021, nullified the ban on the use of motorcycles in Ukum and Katsina-Ala Local Government Areas of Benue State, declared the ban as illegal, unlawful, unconstitutional, null and void and further restrained the Respondents comprising the Governor of Benue State and other security operatives from further impounding motorcycles in those areas.
The learned Judge of the High Court found and held that without a law made by the Benue State House of Assembly authorising the said action by the Government of Benue State and security operatives, it was unlawful and unconstitutional for the Government to ban the citizens from using motorcycles in those parts.
It would be recalled that sometime on the 05/01/2021 my humble self had dragged the Governor of Benue State, the Attorney- General and other security operatives to court for imposing a ban on the use of motorcycles in (then only)Katsina-Ala and Ukum LGAs without first putting in place a law to authorize them in that behalf.
Most sadly, following the illegal and unconstitutional act aforesaid, security operatives, on the nod and assent of the Benue State Government, went beserk on the frolick of arbitrarily impounding all motorcycles and randomly arresting citizens who flouted the ban, burning some motorcycles in the process.
With the decision handed down today and upon service of same on the appropriate authorities it is expected the Government as a law-abiding institution would lift the ban forthwith.
Meanwhile, I’m heavily indebted to all who by assent or dissent assisted in the pursuit of Justice in this matter, most especially my most revered learned senior, Amaatimin Tertsegha Timothy. Sir, the recent authority you graciously commended to me made my Lord’s “hands tied” to do the needful. I’m grateful.
A married man simply identified as Mr Okpako has died under sexual circumstances in Warri, Delta State.
Focus Naija can report that Okpako allegedly died mysteriously on top of his wife’s sales girl at Hodmas hotel where they both lodged.
According to reports, the deceased, who until his death was the Mile 2 Chairman of Igbudu community, took the salesgirl to the hotel located at Odibo extension for a romp and met his untimely end.
As at the time of filing this report, efforts to reach family members for comments surrounding his death proved abortive.
Some session of married women are currently mocking his death, don’t join them.
The Senate on a Wednesday passed a bill to upgrade the Maritime Academy, Oron in Akwa Ibom State into a full-fledged University of Maritime Studies.
Also passed was a bill to establish the Institute of Information and Communication Technology, Ogoja, Cross River State.
This followed the presentation and consideration of two separate reports by the Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND.
The Special Assistant (Press) to President of the Senate, Ezrel Tabiowo, disclosed this in a statement titled ‘Senate upgrades Maritime Academy to University… passes bill to establish ICT Institute, receives report on MDAs oversight.’
According to the statement, “Senator Sandy Onuh (PDP, Cross River Central), in a presentation on behalf of the Committee’s Chairman, Ahmad Babba Kaita (APC, Katsina North), said upgrading the Academy into a university would help Nigeria in achieving the prerequisites of the International Maritime Organization convention on standard of training, certification and watch-keeping for seafarers.
“According to him, the university would afford students the opportunity to specialise in international shipping and waterways transportation, port operations, management as well as exploitation and exploration of oil and gas as a boost for Nigeria’s economy.
“Onuh observed that Nigeria presently records losses in the maritime sector, a development which, according to him, was largely due to deficits in manpower and seafarers.
expansion of coastline with waterways for a viable coastal and inland water transport industry.”
He said the lawmaker added that the upgrade of the Maritime Academy into a university would benefit host communities in the South-South geopolitical zone and Nigeria as a whole.
Meanwhile, the report of the Committee on Education (Basic and Secondary) on oversight visits to Ministry, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) was received by the Senate on Wednesday.
This was laid during plenary by Senator Eyakenyi Akon Etim (PDP, Akwa-Ibom South), on behalf of the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam (APC, Yobe East).
PVC REGISTRATION: A’IBOM WILL BE RANKED AMONG STATES WITH THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS- FRANK ARCHIBONG
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Frank Archibong has expressed optimism that the State will be ranked among States with the highest number of registrants, considering the State’s current population density.
The Honourable Commissioner gave the assurance on Tuesday, 6 July, 2021 in a special meeting convened for the purpose of sensitizing the 31 Local Government Council Chairmen on the resumed Continuous Voter’s Registration (CVR) exercise. He charged the Council helmsmen to champion the voters registration exercise in their respective LGAs, noting that the participation of the local populace in political and decision-making processes, and particularly in elections can only be guaranteed if they are adequately educated on how to use android phones and laptops to key into the INEC’s new model of online registration.
The Commissioner implored the Chairmen to encourage every one of voting age within their domains, especially the youths, to engage actively in this process, stressing that the first critical step of participating in governance is to get a voter’s card that enables them determine who governs them and how they are governed.
Frank noted that, “there are no better positioned persons to simplify the ongoing PVC registration process than the Local Government Council Chairmen and other leaders at that level”. He therefore encouraged them to carry out massive enlightenment campaigns for indigenes and residents of their LGAs who are eligible to participate in the 2023 elections.
In the Commissioner’s words, “It will be a great disservice to the local populace if Council Chairmen ignore the need to, not just properly educate their people on the online registration processes, but the need to massively mobilize those who are eligible to be registered”. He further tasked the Council Chairmen to go as far as drafting computer literate persons with android phones and laptops to rural communities to help the rural dwellers who are not conversant with the use of the devices.
The Commissioner, appreciated the fact that there is a support Staff from the Independent National Electoral Commission in every Local Government Area, noting that this will help make the process less hectic for indigenes.
The starting point to increase the State’s electoral strength is from the grassroot. With this in mind, the Honourable Commissioner urged the Council Chairmen to go back to their domains and engage the Councillors, Traditional Rulers(including Family Heads), Youth Leaders and Women Leaders in the task of creating awareness and sensitizing the people on how to go about the online registration.
Those eligible to register include – those that are above 18 years and who have not been previously registered; registered voters who had any problem during accreditation for any past election; registered voters who want to transfer their voting location from one place to another; registered voters who want to correct issues with their data, such as misspelt names, dates of birth and; registered voters whose PVCs are lost or damaged.
The high point of the moment was the Commissioner’s declaration of a reward for the Local Government Area with the highest number of registrants.
you get luck enta school, you don dey feel big boy, you neva matriculate you don join bad gang. you don dey blow norsh you waka go find who be your Niggas
Ontop 12:00 laidis, you enter street dey drive neutral boys you call dem “Jew Man”, collect their kappa, wristwatch and chains based on who you be.
You tell Imaobong make she com your hood, she no gree. you wait am for night, drill am still collect wetin you been dey find.
You don tell Akanimo to join you, him no gree, him tell you say him pop-man and Momsy go disown am. You tell am say STREET GET HIM BACK, him no gree. You remind am say if him belong say e go outshine him papa, sey lectura for school go dey fear am, on top dat, lecturas no go fit fail am for school. you give am orientation full head, he come gree. Akanimo now turn ya Kartel Man, he don run commot from house, he don dey blow weed, he don dey take TM 500mg, he don dey Achieve people phones and valueables, e don dey handle Gun, Akanimo don turn HardMan.
You try enter Ukpono, UK na tight Man he no send you at all base on him belong somewhere he no dey go gree “show love” Based on say “na your choppings be that” you arrange mek dem drive am.
Basil argue with you ones ones, you nak am DOWN. Him nigga vex, Dem don carri you for mind, you na dia point and kill
You enter street, everybody dey find their way everybody believe you everybody sabi you as Heavy Capacity. Ur mama and papa dey hunger mek you for go school, graduate
Everytime, Everytime you wan high, you buy TM 500Mg Pour am for LACASERA/COKE You don high, you wan go MATCH NIGGAS.
You don go match Ukpono brother, based on who you be achieve him valueables
Ukpono question you you put call Your XYz dem arrive You tell them say small Ukpono group wan Challenge you Small Ukpono wey you fit show the way
Them arrange Drill Ukpono Las las na you gain You be KING for the game You Roar like LION Based on who you be Na you get Hood.
Ukpono up him game weeks don go, Months don pass your matter still dey him eye Him wan show you say ” Nobody be King for the game”
Years don go you dey feel alright, on top dey go soon grad, but Unto Normal Hit Ukpono don take you down Eye to Eye you see your death. School wey Dem send you, you no finish
The Game no be child’s The Game no be Bobo.
Remember the SAYING: HE WHO KILLS WITH THE GUN, SHALL DIE BY THE GUN.
DR. MRS. MARTHA UDOM EMMANUEL, WIFE OF THE GOVERNOR FOCUS ON FAMILY EMPOWERMENT & YOUTH RE-ORIENTATION PATH INITIATIVE – *FEYReP
….. Putting Smiles on the faces of the Masses …..
“You won’t carry any portfolio to the grave,you are expected to touch lives with it here on earth and that is what i am doing in my little capacity with FEYREP”,Dr. Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel.
The wife of the executive governor of akwa ibom state,Dr. Mrs Martha udom Emmanuel has charged well meaning akwa ibomites to touch lives in the little way they can and to prioritize human capacity development as it is very paramount.
Speaking on a live interview on the programme,Update Akwa ibom earlier today,which is a flagship radio programme of the Akwa ibom state Ministry of Information and strategy she stressed on the need for akwa ibomites to thinker and look for ways as well as avenue to better the lives of others in whatever little way the can.
She went ahead to reiterate the purpose of FEYREP and stated that the organization is committed to bettering the lot of Akwa ibom families as well as fighting social vices with specific attention geared towards curbing the menace “Rape”.
Update Akwa ibom had a Camoe appearance,with the amiable Honorable commissioner for Information and Strategy, Comr. Ini Ememobong anchoring the special interactive session with her excellency.
GOV. EMMANUEL HAS REVAMPED THE REVENUE GENERATING MACHINERY OF THE STATE – USAID
By Raymond Alphonsus
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has commended the Gov. Udom Emmanuel led government for revamping the States Revenue Generation Machinery.
Speaking in Uyo the state capital at a workshop themed “Political Economy Analysis and Conflict Assessment Framework” the state lead team (state to state: Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Gombe, Sokoto) Borve Paago Mabel noted that “Akwa Ibom State Internally Generated Revenue has improved tremendously. The state has a website so it is public. You can access the website and do a comparative analysis from 2018 to 2019 and 2020. We always look at data. We can’t work without data so that we do not give false information. The state Internally generated revenue service is working towards full automation of its processes such that revenue collection is automated from every angle and the MDAs, ministries are pouring into it. That’s why the treasury single account is running in the state. The government is centrally coordinating each of these and just looking at the dashboard, you can see what is going on, that the tax returns are well coordinated and leakages in public finance management are blocked. We are working with the state ministry of finance, the Akwa Ibom state Government”.
The workshop which held at Rosmohr hotel in Ewet Housing Estate had in attendance the commissioner of finance, stakeholders in the government financial sector, commissioner.
Akwa Ibom State Governor His Excellency Mr. Udom Emmanuel had introduced Innovations and Initiatives which provided a road map for exploiting the Internally Generating Revenue (IGR) to bring beams and glimpses of sunlight that have shown upon the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) in the Last four years plus.
The sterling strides AKIRS has recorded is due to Governor Emmanuel’s Vision and Sound understanding of Contemporary Socio-Economic trends. Most prominently was the Granting of Autonomy to AKIRS, a Critical point of inflextion in today’s taxation management.
Governor Emmanuel’s signing of the bill which granted Autonomy to AKIRS brought in the first Autonomous Executive Board for Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service with Mr. Okon Okon as the Executive Chairman.
After Inauguration in 2016 in line with the Governor’s Dakkada Philosophy, an operational compass Code-named: ‘Revenue and Institutional Transformation (REVITA)’ was lunched which become a dynamic vehicle that provided a clear and strategic direction for transformation. REVITA was designed to achieve five objectives namely Rapid and significant growth in IGR and tax payers database; introduction of technology/ automaton of processes; improvement in physical infrastructure and work tools; humanness and staff welfare and building the institution.
As expected the Governor’s new innovations brought in beautiful results, in 2019 the IGR hit on all time high of N32.29 billion since the states creation and Akwa Ibom rose to 7th position in country-wide state profile, according to the National bureau of statistics. This is from N14.79 billion before the board came in 2016 according to budgIT 2020 states of states report. In 2019, Akwa Ibom met the 20% basic IGR growth target necessary to receive $1m grant incentive offered by the World Bank Supported by SFTAS Program to Nigerian States.
Worthy to note was year 2020, where despite the Covid-19 Worldwide lockdown and EndSARS protests, the Agency still racked in N30.7billion for the state and was 8th on the National IGR table as published by the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics. The N30.7b was only 5% lower than previous year 2019. Although we don’t have the first quarter of 2021 IGR result, Analyst forcast that Akwa Ibom will continue to improve on the national IGR table given the focus and tenacity of the board and its Leadership.
The Okon Okon led board of AKIRS which has generated over N100 billion in four years has ensured that more revenues are collected without an increase in taxes or introduction of new ones. The magic which accounts for this is that there is a new spirit of enterprise controlling the tax administration in the state. AKIRS has reaped these many gains from strategic stakeholders engagement, improved staff welfare scheme, on aggressive renovation and retooling of tax offices in all 31 local government areas, provided buses, motorcycles to enable tax officers access hard to reach riverine areas and new tax offices have also been opened, training of revenue officers with International Monetary Fund (IMF) on TADAT the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF); activation of State Joint Revenue Committee (SIRC). His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel on inaugurating the Okon Okon led AKIRS Board in April 2017 said “this is a thorough-bred professional and a round peg in a around hole. Expectations of Akwa Ibom people are high”. Today Akwa Ibomite can proudly say that the Governor got it right in his enviable acumen for hiring. Using the Okon Okon paradigm shift, Governor Emmanuel’s characteristic circumspection and choice of team players have not only been justified but celebrated as second to none.
Aniekan Akpan Assumes Office As PDP State Chairman
…Meets with SEC, Chapter Chairmen of Party
“Our party must not fail Akwa Ibom people” – State PDP Chairman
The New State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, Rt. Hon (Elder) Aniekan Akpan has formally assumed office as the 7th Chairman of the Party.
Shortly after arriving the State Secretariat Complex of the PDP in Atan Offot, Rt. Hon Aniekan Akpan proceeded to hold a maiden meeting with State Officers of the Party.
Presenting the New State Chairman to the State Exco members of the Party, Deputy Chairman of the PDP, Rt. Hon. Lawrence Udosen described him as a committed member of the Party who has served Akwa Ibom State in various capacities across different strata of leadership, adding that his wealth of experience in leadership will be pivotal to the flawless victories that the PDP will record in future elections.
Rt. Hon. Udosen enlisted the total support of State officers to the new Chairman.
Addressing the State Officers of the PDP, the State Chairman of the Party, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Akpan said he remains deeply grateful to the Governor and leader of the PDP in Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Mr Udom Emmanuel and the entire party structure in the State for the confidence reposed in him to serve, promising that his administration will, with the humongous support of all members of the Party, and Akwa Ibom people write new stories of conquests for the Party in the state.
He said; “Our focus will be to build on the successes of the past leadership of this party and to expand the umbrella to cover as many Akwa Ibom people as possible. We will open up the party for more people to come in. As a party we will do everything within our powers to ensure that the trust and confidence that Akwa Ibom people have continued to repose in our party by giving our members the mandate to serve them is not betrayed. We must get to work immediately. That is why I am asking us to mobilize our people to get involved in this Continuous Voter’s Registration (CVR) exercise. In the days ahead we will evolved strategies to create easier access to help our people register.”
State Executive Committee members who spoke at the meeting were unanimous in their message of welcome for the new chairman and promised to work with him to ensure that the PDP maintain its winning ways in future elections in the State.
The State Chairman immediately after the meeting with State Executive Committee members, met with Chapter Chairmen of the PDP in the 31 Local Government Areas.
Addressing the Chairmen, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Akpan said it was important for him to meet with the Chairmen as they are critical to the journey that lies ahead.
He briefed them of plans to re-energise the Party at the grassroots level in order to deepen the party’s taproot in the different Local Government Areas.
IKOT EKPENE SENATORIAL DISTRICT WOMEN REAFFIRM SUPPORT FOR GOVERNOR EMMANUEL
Women under the aegis of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Women Forum (ISDWF) have reaffirmed their support for the Governor of Akwa Ibom state, Mr. Udom Emmanuel.
The reaffirmation was made by the forum, which was founded fifteen years ago as the first senatorial district women’s forum in the state on Monday, July 5, at the end of a get-together organized by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Glory Edet, who is also a member of the forum.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Edet lauded the group for its role in the promotion of peace, progress and development of the state and appreciated its members for their effective collaboration with their counterparts from the other two senatorial districts of the state for the overall unity and togetherness of the state.
“As women, we are very proud of our governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel and we are grateful that he has carried us along in his administration and has accorded us our due recognition”. “We are also grateful for our mother, the wife of the governor, Dr. Martha Udom Emmanuel, who is also a proud daughter of the senatorial district and the most supportive governor’s wife in the country for standing by us throughout all our activities and endeavours”, she added.
In their separate speeches, the president of the group, Honourable Ini-ibehe Silas as well as representatives of the four federal constituencies that make up the senatorial district, Lady Udo Kierian who is the wife of the House Leader, AKHA, the wife of the Vice Chancellor of Akwa Ibom State University (AKSU), Mrs. Nse Essien, a former AKISIEC Chairperson who is currently a member of the Governing Council of AKSU, the Honourable Special Adviser to the Governor on Basic Education, Mrs. Ekemini Umoh, Obonganwan Glory Udo, etc all thanked Governor Udom Emmanuel and his wife for leading the state well and expressed their continued loyalty and support to the present administration.
Highlights of the meeting, which was attended by the wives of past and present members of national and state houses assembly, honourable commissioners, local government council chairmen and other public office holders, were special prayers, dancing and sumptuous refreshment.
Ibom Voice Media convey sincere wishes to a damsel and adorable wife of a notable Telecommunication Guru/ Political Juggernaut, Member Representing Ukanafun/ Oruk Anam Federal Constituency, Rep. Unyime Idem, Engr. (Mrs) Helen Idem, as she marks her birthday today, 6th July, 2021.
It is said that beside most successful men are virtuous women of intellectual and unwavering commitment, this is found in the case of Engr. (Mrs) Helen Idem.
Engr. (Mrs) Helen Idem is a pride to womanhood, role model, virtuous vessel and a true mother who is kind and nice to all, as such, we are wholeheartedly delighted to felicitate with you as you attain yet another height in life.
May God bless your new age with divine health, divine favour, divine preservation and supernatural abundance. May you live long to enjoy the fruits of your labour.
It was a pleasure to host the meeting of the Southern Governors’ Forum in Lagos where germane issues of national importance were top on the agenda.
At the end of the meeting, the Governors from the Southern part of Nigeria resolved and reaffirmed our commitment to the unity of Nigeria on the basis of fairness and justice that ensures peaceful co-existence of the people.
To further strengthen the unity of the country, we restated our commitment to the politics of equity and unanimously agreed that the next president of Nigeria should come from the Southern Region.
On the issue of security across the country, the forum commended the security agencies for their relentless efforts in ensuring safety and commiserates with families and loved ones of those who have fallen in the line of duty while we still re-emphasised the need for State Police and that the Governors as the Chief Security Officers should be duly informed if any security operation is to be carried out in our respective states.
On the issue of the ban on open grazing in the Southern part of Nigeria, we set a timeline of Wednesday, 1st September, 2021 for the promulgation of the anti open grazing law in all member States; and resolved that Funds deducted from the Federation Account for the Nigeria Police Security Trust Fund should be distributed among the States and Federal Government to address security challenges.
The Forum commended the National Assembly for the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). We however rejected the proposed 3% and support the 5% share of the oil revenue to the host community as recommended by the House of Representatives.
We also reject the proposed 30% share of profit for the exploration of oil and gas in the basins as well as the ownership structure of the proposed Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
It is our considered position that NNPC Limited should be held in trust by Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) since all tiers of Government have stakes in that vehicle.
To consolidate our democracy and strengthen the Electoral process, the Southern Governors’ Forum rejects the removal of the electronically transmission of the election result from the electoral act; and also rejected the confirmation of exclusive jurisdiction in pre-election matters on the Federal High Court.
The meeting ended on a very strong note and the Forum unanimously chose Lagos State as its permanent secretariat and appreciated our state for the successful hosting of the meeting.
Wife of Late Prophet T. B. Joshua Mrs. Evelyn Joshua led Synagogue Church Of All Nations (SCOAN) on a candle light procession on.
Monday procession for the Synagogue Church mountain begins this week long funeral rites of the prominent/ influential Nigerian preacher.
The candle light procession witness at least 5000 followers of Late Prophet T. B. Joshua who gave up his ghost last month.
Fellowers around the globe trooped into Lagos Nigeria to witness the funeral rites of the late Man Of God.
However, the candlelight procession was a private ceremony, according to the plans the church (Synagogue Church of All Nations) had in other to abate human congestion and observing covid-19 Protocols.
Emphatically, the televangelist, and founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) die last month at the age of 57.
Late T. B. Joshua’s death occur few days to to his 58th birthday anniversary.
IBOM VOICE MEDIA 