NEWS
Further fuel hike: NLC threatens to commence strike without notice
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has threatened to embarked on a nationwide strike without any formal notice if there is further increase in the pump price of fuel.
Mr Joe Ajaero, NLC President said this at the ongoing African Alliance of Trade Unions meeting on Monday in Abuja.
Ajaero said that negotiations with the Federal Government was still ongoing and the palliatives to cushion the effect of the removal subsidy were yet to be put in place firrst.
Ajaero while reacting to the advice of the Registrar of Trade Unions of their responsibilities of protecting the interest of workers and Nigerians, urged government to change the anti-poor and anti-workers policies.
According to him, government must change those bad economic policies that make our wages next to nothing.
“ As we are here now, they are contemplating on increasing the pump price of petroleum products but let me say this, Nigeria workers will not give any strike notice.
“If we have not addressed the consequences of the last two increases of fuel pump price, we would have waken up from asleep to hear that they have tampered with the fuel pump price again,” he said.
The NLC president however, appealed to the Federal Government to ensure that theⁿ anti-workers policies are checked.
“If you check those policies that lead to inflation and devaluation of the currency, we will be comfortable even where we are.
“If Naira is at par with dollar today, we will asks you to leave minimum wage at N30,000.If inflation is checked to zero, we will ask you to leave things the way they are.
“But inflation is flying, and by the admittance of the National Bureau of Statistics, we have over 133 million Nigerians that are multi dimensionally poor.
“I think these are the issues Government should address. If we go for wage increased tomorrow, the inflation that will follow suit will destroy it,”he said.
On the issue of Inspector-General of Police(IGP) detaining the officers of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) that it was unlawful.
According to him, ”the Nigerian police, the IG is now performing the duties of the Ministry of Labour.”
”The duty of ministry of labour includes addressing the issue both inter and intra union disputes.
“It is not within the purview of the IG to go into that area. I think there is need for the Ministry of Labour to educate the police to tell them that they don’t have the right to usurp its functions.
“If they do that, the Ministry of Labour will go into extinction and there will be no basis for Minister of Labour to remain there,”he added.
He further that it was legal for NLC demand an apology from the IG of police for arresting or even contemplated to arrest the president of the NURTW on the eve of the union’s election.
He added that, it is unheard of in the history of this country. And never again should not be entertained,” he said.
NEWS
Abuja Stampede: CAN Mourns
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
The National Leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the weekend, said it is disturbed by the tragic events at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama on Saturday morning.This was contained in a statement issued by CAN signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and made available to journalists in Abuja.
.The statement reads in parts, “We have learned that at least ten people, including children, lost their lives in a stampede while trying to seek help from the church. ”This tragedy is not just statistics; it represents real families who are hurting. Each person lost was someone’s beloved family member. We wish to express our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic Church and to the families affected by this terrible incident. We stand together with you in this time of sadness and prayer.”Many people arrived early, hoping to receive palliatives that would help them during tough times. What was meant to be a day of support turned into a disaster, leaving a heavy impact on all of us and reminding us how fragile life can be.”This incident is part of a troubling pattern, as Nigeria has experienced two other tragic stampedes this month. On December 18, during a Christmas funfair at a school in Ibadan, a stampede resulted in the deaths of 35 children, with six others critically injured. The event aimed to distribute cash and food to over 5,000 children. This tragic event is currently under investigation, focusing on better crowd control measures.”Just a few days later, another stampede occurred during a rice distribution event at a centre in Anambra State. Reports indicate that at least 22 people lost their lives, and 32 others were injured. These heartbreaking incidents highlight the challenges of managing large crowds during charitable events. “In the face of these tragedies, we recognise the importance of coming together to support those who are grieving. It is crucial that we listen to one another, share our feelings, and offer help in any way we can. This is a time for compassion and understanding as we help one another heal.”As we reflect on these devastating events, we invite all Nigerians to come together with kindness and understanding. Let us support one another and work towards creating a place where everyone feels safe and valued. The concern shown in response to this incident highlights our shared humanity.”Together, we can honour the memory of those we have lost by committing to a future filled with hope, where every life matters, and where we can gather in safety and peace, sharing in the abundance of food and support that we can provide for one another as a nation.”May those who have passed find eternal rest, and may God comfort all who are grieving”.NEWS
Benue unveils Zeva Premium Lager Beer
The Benue Government on Sunday unveiled a new beverage, Zeva Premium Lager Beer, produced by Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC).
Gov. Hyacihth Alia, who presented the new product to the public in Makurdi, said the product was a significant step toward economic rejuvenation, industrialisation, and sustainable development of the state.
Alia stated that the product has further expressed the state’s readiness to harness her resources, build and revive dormant industries, and foster local economic growth.
The governor said the brewery would create a sustainable value chain, turning agricultural raw materials like cassava, sorghum, millet, and maize into high-value products.
He said the beer was an economic strategy to boost state internally generated revenue, reduce dependence on federal allocations, create jobs for the youth, address unemployment, and foster economic stability.
Alia said that through the BIPC, the state has initiated negotiations and interventions to ensure that the Benue Brewery, now managed by Nigerian Breweries, was revived and repositioned for optimal productivity, but their efforts failed.
“Having seen the economic potentials of the brewery industry on our local farmers and the economy of the state, we floated Food Basket Brewery that will produce quality beverages that can compete on national and global stages.
“The launch of Zeva Premium Lager Beer is a game-changer for the agricultural and economic landscape of Benue State.
“The brewery’s operations will directly impact the lives of our farmers, the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and overall economic development of the state.” he said
The governor stated that through the BIPC, the state has initiated various projects aimed at revitalising existing industries and establishing new ones.
He said though there were other beer beverages in the country, the Benue brand remained the best in the market.
Alia urged the people to drink beer responsibly.
The governor commended the Managing Director (MD/CEO) BIPC, Dr Raymond Asemakaha, along with the management and entire staff of the company, for their relentless efforts, dedication, and commitment to bringing change to the state.
The BIPC Managing Director (M-D/CEO), Asemakaha, said in his remarks that the launching of the beer would increase the state GDP by 17 per cent.
Asemakaha said that the target of the company was to create 10,000 jobs by 2025, adding that they have already created 411 direct jobs within one year.
“Zeva Premium Lager Beer represents more than just a new product. It is a symbol of innovation, resilience, and the indomitable Benue spirit.
“As we unveil this premium beer today, we do so with the knowledge that it will contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of our dear state in several critical ways,” he said.
The M-D disclosed that the Food Basket Brewery would not only produce Zeva Premium Lager Beer but also an array of other assorted brands that would cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
He said Zeva Premium Lager Beer was more than just a drink; it was a celebration of the Benue spirit—a spirit of resilience, determination, and excellence.
The high point of the event was the unveiling of the Zeva Premium Lager Beer product to the public by the governor. (NAN)
NEWS
NAFDAC, Manufacturers Collaborate to Strengthen Food Safety Culture in Nigeria
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has partnered with the Association of Food, Beverages, and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) to promote a food safety culture in Nigeria.
This collaboration was announced in a statement issued by NAFDAC’s resident media consultant, Mr Olusayo Akintola, to newsmen in Abuja on Sunday.
He said the event took place in Lagos on Friday, where NAFDAC’s Director-General, Prof.
Mojisola Adeyeye, was represented by Mrs Eva Edwards, Director of Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (FSAN).The statement quoted Adeyeye, highlighting that the collaboration stemmed from an end-of-year stakeholders’ dialogue session with NAFDAC.
She said the session provided an opportunity for both parties to have open discussions on strategic objectives.
Adeyeye noted that the FSAN dialogue had become a key part of NAFDAC’s calendar, marking its third consecutive annual edition.
She said the session aimed to share insights and tackle challenges related to ensuring the safety and quality of food supplied to Nigerians.
The NAFDAC Director-General emphasised that the event underscored the vital role of AFBTE in protecting public health and maintaining consumer trust.
“It also served as a platform for discussing important food safety concerns and sharing information on new regulatory processes for food manufacturing facilities in Nigeria.”
Adeyeye pointed out the far-reaching impact of unsafe food, which not only affected public health but could also harm economies and trade.
She stressed the importance of the food sector in adopting robust food safety standards, innovative solutions, and a food safety culture.
“NAFDAC, alongside AFBTE, is committed to guiding the industry towards voluntary compliance with regulatory requirements.
“This meeting is an opportunity to discuss how we can improve our services and better support you. What worked well in 2024? What didn’t, and how can we improve?”
She also mentioned that NAFDAC had received several applications from manufacturers requesting changes to product formulations, and the agency would work to verify these necessary changes.
The statement also quoted Mr Fred Chiazor, Chairman of the Technical Committee of AFBTE, who commended NAFDAC for facilitating the meeting, which provided an opportunity for industry stakeholders to collaborate on progress for the upcoming year.
He noted that AFBTE members had become more strategic in their thinking and encouraged them to speak openly about issues they encounter. (NAN)