By Tony Obiechina, Abuja

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Amb Gabriel Tanimu Aduda has reiterated his unwavering commitment to the welfare of staff as a cornerstone of the Ministry’s administrative agenda.Aduda, who spoke at the official commissioning of a newly refurbished staff bus at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, Abuja, highlighted the significance of staff-centered initiatives in driving institutional efficiency and productivity.

“This refurbished bus is not just a means of transport; it is a statement of our commitment to improving the working conditions and overall well-being of our dedicated personnel,” he said.“We will continue to roll out projects and policies that boost staff morale and enhance the work environment, ” he added.The upgraded vehicle is intended to ease daily commuting challenges and reduce transportation-related stress for staff members. Aduda noted that the transportation initiative will be implemented in phases to ensure broad coverage and impact staff of the ministry.The event was attended by directors, union leaders, and members of staff, who commended the Permanent Secretary for his visionary leadership and expressed appreciation for his continued efforts to prioritize staff welfare. Many lauded the move as timely and impactful, pledging their renewed dedication to the Ministry’s service delivery objectives.

By Eze Okechukwu, Abuja

The Interim National Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned academic, Professor Jonah Isawa Elaigwu.Elaigwu, an esteemed Emeritus Professor of Political Science at the University of Jos, was reported dead on Tuesday morning.

In a heartfelt tribute, Senator Mark described the late Professor as a pathfinder whose demise has created a significant vacuum in both academia and national development. He noted that Professor Elaigwu dedicated his life to building an egalitarian and just society, making impactful contributions far beyond the classroom.Senator Mark emphasized that the late scholar was not only an intellectual giant but also a respected development expert and community leader.“Professor Elaigwu’s death is a monumental loss at a time when his wisdom and leadership are sorely needed to navigate Nigeria’s political uncertainties,” Mark said.He added that the nation has lost a patriotic citizen and a teacher of inestimable value.Senator Mark prayed for the repose of Professor Elaigwu’s soul and asked God to grant his family the strength to bear the irreparable loss.Professor Jonah Elaigwu served with distinction as a Professor of Political Science at both Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and the University of Jos, Nigeria.

By Ubong Ukpong, Abuja

The House of Representatives yesterday said it was making legislative efforts to ensure improved services by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), to ensure national safety.Chairman of the House committee on Aviation technology, Rep. Tajudeen Abisodun, disclosed this during a public hearing on a Bill to Amend the Nigerian Meteorological Agency Establishment Act No.

29, 2022 in Abuja. He said that the amendment was imperative in enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the country’s Meteorological Agency.”This Bill is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of our Meteorological Agency,”Which plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of lives and property, particularly in the aviation sector,” he said.The lawmaker said that the proposed amendments were focused on key sections that require urgent attention specifically to amend section 13 sub-section 2.According to him, these amendments are designed to strengthen the agency’s capacity to provide accurate and timely weather forecasts, warnings and advisories.Abisodun who reiterated the imperative of NIMET’s quality service delivery, said that the bill would enable Pilots and air traffic controllers to access reliable and accurate weather information for informed decisions.The Speaker, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen described the public hearing as a reaffirmation of the House of Representatives commitment to efficiency, accountability and transparency.Abbas, represented by Rep. Ibrahim Isiaka, Deputy Chief Whip, said that prioritization of the Citizens’ needs was imperative.He said that the House of Representatives would continue to provide legislative support in enhancing Nigeria’s safety and economic growth.Abbas therefore urged the relevant stakeholders and participants to make crucial contributions aimed at improving the services of NIMET.On his part, the sponsor of the Bill, Rep. Abisodun Akinlade said that the aim of the Bill was to reposition NiMET for citizenry safety and economic growth.Akinlade said that NiMET was the only agency mandated by law to give Meteorological data for national safety.Also, the Director General, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Prof Charles Anosike said that the purpose of the presentation was to justify the proposed amendments.Anosike particularly supported the proposal for a cost recovery framework to ensure sustainable delivery of critical Meteorological services to sectors such as marine, construction and telecommunications.The NIMET DG expressed the need for users of specialized Meteorological services to pay costs associated with the provision of such services.He said that there were inherent gaps in the current Act that limits NIMET’s optimal service delivery especially in cost recovery.”While in the current Act, (sections 7(1)(i) and 7(2) empowers NiMET to issue Meteorological information and to impose cost and sustainability recovery charges.”There is currently no equivalent mechanism for non-aeronautical sectors, resulting in unrecovered operational costs, increased pressure on funding, poor Infrastructural development and limited service coverage.”Anosike said that it is imperative to improve the services of NIMET in line with global best services, particularly cost recovery from specialized services.