NEWS
2023: We’ll only Support a President of N/Delta Extraction or One who has our Interest-MOSIEND
FROM TAYESE Mike, Yenagoa
The Movement for survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality, MOSIEND, has vowed not to support the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is from outside the Niger Delta Region.
The National Spokesman of MOSIEND, Comrade Kakas Amgbare who stated this while reacting to the emergence of Tinubu in a statement made available to newsmen, called on every well meaning individuals in the region not to accept the presidential candidate of the APC but rather work for presidential candidates from other political parties that are either from the South-South zone or has the interest of the region at heart.
According to him, the Niger Delta with a very large crude oil deposit and no tangible infrastructural development had suffered marginalization from successive administration and with the on unfolding political scenarios ahead of the 2023 general polls, only a president from the Niger Delta can salvage our long surfing situation.
Comrade Kakas who was a Special Assistant on Youth Mobilization and later appointed as Director General Centre for Youths Development and Industries to the first Civilian Governor, Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, explained that Niger Delta is a very critical component when it comes to Nigeria politics and its development considering our contribution to the nation economy through crude oil exploration, therefore, whoever becomes the president of this country is of much interest to the people especially taking into cognisance the socio-economic challenges that the country is currently facing.
“So, we are looking at a president that will first prioritise the issue of the Niger-Delta, and Rt Honorable Chief Chibuike Rotimi Ameachi is one of such persons we looked forward to emerge as the APC standard bearer ahead of the general elections to tackle our challenges hence anything short from that would be counter productive in the general elections.
“What we are seeing clearly shows that the political class who are aspiring especially the APC national leader, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu only campaigning on the basis of rhetoric, their is no clear commitment to solve the problems of the Nigerian question and the Niger Delta in particular but coming to loot and if nothing is done to change this daylight robbery, employ all asernals to mobilise support for the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar come 2023.
Comrade Kakas who also served in the immediate past administration as Special Adviser on Youths Mobilisation, says, it has become more glearing that for fear of the South controlling the nation’s economy through Oil production and industrialization, the north and West connived to ensure all seaports in the Region are not functional except that of the Lagos Port.
He opined that, if the Onne seaport Port Harcourt, Calabar, Warri, and other smaller ports are functional by now Niger Delta would have been the economy hub of this country to restore the hope of younger generation with a lot of employment opportunities and Industries cut across the Niger Delta Region.
The MOSIEND spokesman said the body is Committed to the Ijaw and Niger Delta Course, as an Injury to one is an Injury to all and called on all hands to be on deck particularly the Ijaw National Congressman (INC), the Ijaw Youth Council IYC and other pressure groups to reject any imposition of candidate through the ballots against our collective will by the Yorubas and the Northern oligarchy.
“With the wealth in Niger Delta, there is no excuse for poverty if we have the right people in governance to put up institutional frame work; the days of blaming people are over, and it is time to galvanize support for the PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar who has his investments across Niger Delta states.
NEWS
NESG, Tourism Stakeholders Meet to Validate Draft National Tourism Policy
By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
Key stakeholders from Nigeria’s tourism, hospitality, and cultural sectors convened in Lagos for a pivotal validation event dedicated to Nigeria’s Draft National Tourism Policy.Hosted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy in collaboration with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), the event marked a significant step toward aligning Nigeria’s tourism framework with global standards, while celebrating the country’s rich cultural and natural resources.
The Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, delivered the opening address, underscoring Nigeria’s vast but untapped tourism potential and its diverse landscapes, vibrant heritage, and economic promise.She commended NESG and private sector partners for their dedicated collaboration on the policy, emphasizing that the last update to Nigeria’s tourism policy occurred in 2005. With a focus on sustainability, infrastructure, and community engagement, the revalidated framework aims to modernize the tourism sector, positioning it as a driver of national economic growth.Former Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, who played a vital role in the policy’s original formulation, emphasized the policy’s value in unlocking Nigeria’s tourism assets and praised NESG’s contributions in guiding the policy development process. She highlighted the potential for a comprehensive tourism framework to foster sustainable national growth.Representing the NESG, Dr. Ikenna Nwosu, Facilitator for the Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment, Culture, Creative, and Sports Policy Commission (THECCS), spoke on the importance of a robust tourism policy and the power of public-private collaboration in stimulating growth, especially in the post-pandemic era. He commended the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing tourism and underscored the essential role of NESG in shaping a responsive and inclusive policy.Public Sector Co-chair and Director of International Tourism Relations & Cooperation at the Federal Ministry, Dorothy Duruaku, welcomed attendees, after which Private Sector Co-chair and thematic Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Industries at NESG Lolo Ngozi Ngoka, presented the draft policy.Ngoka highlighted the policy’s priorities: diversifying tourism offerings, promoting inclusivity through broad stakeholder engagement, and advancing digital innovation to enhance Nigeria’s appeal as a global tourism destination. Notably, more than 200 industry professionals contributed to the review process over the last four years, reinforcing the impact of public-private partnerships in strengthening infrastructure and supporting community-focused initiatives.A major highlight of the event was the introduction of the Tourism Policy Review Committee to Minister Musawa and former Minister Ade-John, who jointly presented Certificates of Commendation to recognize the committee’s dedication and contributions. Additional commendation letters will be presented to sub-group members at a later date by the co-chairs.The event featured a dynamic panel discussion with prominent tourism experts assessing the policy’s potential impact, followed by breakout sessions where stakeholders offered valuable insights on key areas, including infrastructure, marketing and promotion, regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder engagement.Each breakout session allowed for targeted discussions, producing feedback that was expanded upon during an open Q&A session. Ngozi Ngoka noted that NESG, alongside the Federal Ministry of Tourism, will integrate approved recommendations into the final draft of the policy.The finalization of Nigeria’s National Tourism Policy, scheduled for November 2024, will include further consultations to refine the policy’s objectives. NESG encourages all stakeholders to remain actively engaged as Nigeria advances toward a thriving, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism sector.NEWS
Mutfwang Condole with Tinubu, Nigerian Army over Lagbaja’s Demise
From Jude Dangwam, Jos
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang has extended his heartfelt condolences to President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian Army and the family of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, following his passing away.In a condolence message signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs Gyang Bere, the Governor described Gen.
Lagbaja’s death as a tremendous loss not only to his family and the Nigerian Armed Forces but also to the people of Plateau State, where he was a steadfast advocate for peace and security. He said the late Plateau will not in a hurry forget about the relentless efforts of the late Chief of Army Staff in fostering an environment where citizens could carry out their daily lives in safety and harmony.Mutfwang noted that Gen. Lagbaja was a man of exceptional intellect, integrity, and compassion, who distinguished himself throughout his military career.He stressed that Gen. Lagbaja’s commitment to national and international assignments in pursuit of peace and stability left an indelible legacy, adding that this underscored the depth of his service to the nation.I’m his words, “Gen. Lagbaja’s legacy of justice, fairness, and his steadfast dedication to the peace and security of Nigeria should serve as an enduring inspiration to all, particularly the young officers in the Nigerian Army.”He highlighted Gen. Lagbaja’s unflagging dedication to restoring peace across the country with particular efforts in Plateau State, where he played a crucial role during the December 2023 Christmas Eve tragedy in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.Governor stated this, “It is with profound sorrow and deep sympathy that I extend my heartfelt condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the family of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.”While words cannot ease the pain of such a monumental loss, I pray that the Almighty God, the God of all comfort, will surround you all with His grace and peace during this difficult time. May the Lord grant you the fortitude to bear this loss with strength and courage.” He prayed for the department Chief OfficerMutfwang reiterated that on behalf of his family, the government, and the peace-loving people of Plateau State offered their deepest sympathies to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the bereaved family, and all those mourning the loss of this distinguished officer. While praying for God’s comfort and strength to uphold them through the period of profound grief.NEWS
Niger Procures Five Mega Metal Boats to Curb Incessant Boat Mishap
From Dan Amasingha, Minna
Worried by the incessant boat mishaps that has claimed several lives over the years, Niger state government has presented five metal fifty-seater boats to riverine communities in the stateThe Special Adviser on Digital Media and Strategy Abdullberqy Usman Ebbo disclosed this through his social media handles after the presentation in Wuya community of Gbako local government area of Niger state.
Ebbo stated that the Niger State Community and Social Development Agency (CSDA) delivered the boats as part of Governor Umaru Bago’s initiative to ensure safer inland water transportation, support agricultural activities, and enhance the safety of residents. The Special Adviser Digital Media noted that the General Manager of CSDA, Aisha Abdulkadir further explained that the communities requested this intervention due to the dangers posed by the wooden boats previously used, which were prone to damage and not durable on water.According to Ebbo, during the handover of the operational code to local government chairmen, Commissioner for Transport Hadiza Kuta highlighted the importance of enforcing water travel regulations and warned that violators would face prosecution.Some of the benefiting community representatives in their separate remarks, appreciated governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s foresight aimed at curbing future boat mishap in the state.It could be recalled that recently over one hundred people from the state died in a dastardly boat mishap at Gbajibo community in Mokwa local government area of Niger state necessitating the government intervention and pro-activeness to prevent further recurrence.Similar intervention has been provided by N HYPPADEC which had also recently distributed fibre glass boats to some revine communities within its operating States.