Echotitbits – Nigeria News

Author: B.O.B Echoload

  • Nigerians in Diaspora Mentoring Corp congratulates Obaseki

    Nigerians in Diaspora Mentoring Corp congratulates Obaseki

    Nigerians in Diaspora Mentoring Corp has congratulated the newly elected Governor of Edo State Dr.Godwin Obaseki and appreciated President Muhammadu Buhari for proving that election in the country can truely be free, fair and with global merit defending democracy.

    “As we all followed and monitored to the point that The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), today, declared the candidate of the opposition party to the President, of Peoples Democratic Party as the winner of the governorship election in Edo 2020”

    Atiku Celebrates Obaseki’s Re-election, Describes Victory as Independence from Godfatherism

    “It gives us stakeholders joy and confidence that when the will is inherent , good governance can be delivered and this should be a catalyst to maintain it going forward” according to the group.

    Speaking about the results, in a Press Release, Mentoring Cmdt Alistair of NIDMECORP added, “We would like to congratulate all Edo citizens home and abroad for advising their electorates to maintain peace, cast and defends their votes until the final whistle. It is also commendable that security forces were able to show neutrality as much as possible whilst the National Electoral Commission did what is always expected of them for the sake of the country and not to the calls and dictates of others”

    Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu

    “Finally,we are using the occasion to call on NASS and the Presidency to speed up the electoral reform process and utilise the e-reporting of votes directly which impacted positively on Edo State election. Nigeria and Nigerians will be the winners in this democractic practises. INEC as umpire should consider re-registring other parties to deepen the freedom of polical association by all stakeholders most especially including diaspora votings.”according to him.

    Buhari Congratulates Obaseki as PDP Tells President to Sustain His ‘Newfound’ Democratic Credentials

    ” This too will lead to citizen’s becoming more empowered in process of politics, voter’s rights and democratic divided.,”, he said.

    It will be recalled Governor Obaseki of PDP clinched victory with 307,955 votes against Osagie Ize-Iyamu of APC who garnered 223,619 in the gubernatorial election held Saturday as announced by INEC.

  • Sanwo-Olu Says Lagos Public, Private Schools Can Reopen Sept 21, But Gym, Cinemas to Wait

    Sanwo-Olu Says Lagos Public, Private Schools Can Reopen Sept 21, But Gym, Cinemas to Wait

    The Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led Lagos State Government has granted permission for the re-opening of basic and secondary schools, although with a note of caution to private proprietors and public administrators.

    Sanwo-Olu, who stated this during a briefing on Saturday, ordered the resumption of all public and private schools from September 21, but only pupils in Junior Secondary School Three (JSS 3) and Senior Secondary School Two (SSS 2) are allowed to resume for physical classes in public schools.

    The governor also granted permission for the immediate reopening of cinemas and gyms, but with a maximum of 33 per cent occupancy, noting that there must be a minimum of two empty seats between occupied seats in the cinemas.

    Sanwo-Olu Announces Resumption Dates for Academic Session in Lagos

    Sanwo-Olu said the public schools’ resumption would allow the JSS 3 students to revise and prepare for Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) slated for October 12, adding that students in SSS 2 would use the period to prepare for their transitional exams to SSS 3.

    Unlike the resumption schedule for the public schools, the governor permitted all levels of class in private schools to resume, but with strong advice to private school owners to consider implementing a staggered daily resumption schedule and classes on alternate days during the week.

    But, all pre-primary school classes, including nursery, daycare centres and kindergarten, in both public and private schools are not permitted to open.

    According to him, “It has become necessary to issue clarifications regarding the resumption of schools, in order to clear any confusion that may have arisen since the resumption date was announced. Public Schools will adopt a phased protocol for resumption of physical classes. Students in JSS 3 and SSS 2 in public schools in Lagos are to resume physical classes from September 21.

    Union Members Shutdown Governor Sanwo-Olu’s School Reopening Order Hours After

    “In the same vein, all private primary and secondary schools are permitted to resume from September 21. We have strongly advised school owners and managers to put safety first and open in phases similar to the announced schedule for public schools.

    “School owners and managers are advised to seriously consider implementing a staggered daily resumption schedule, classes on alternate days during the week, and utilisation of distance learning methods as a complement to physical classes. All pre-primary – nursery, daycare and kindergarten – classes and schools in both public and private schools must remain closed.”

    The governor said all re-opened schools must comply with safety protocols and hygiene guidelines as instructed by Lagos State Government through the Office of Education Quality Assurance (OEQA). He said the department would monitor and evaluate schools’ preparedness.

    He said: “For all other public school classes in primary school and JSS 1, JSS 2, and SSS 1, announcements for resumption will be made as soon as the State Government is satisfied that all necessary resumption protocols have been put in place.

    Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu

    “In the meantime, these yet-to-resume classes in public schools are expected to continue their lessons on our various distance learning platforms (online, radio, television and WhatsApp) pending the announcement of dates for physical resumption.”

    From next week, Sanwo-Olu said all primary and secondary schools in the state that have more than two-storey structures would be subjected to integrity test to ensure the safety of pupils. He spoke against the backdrop of the Saturday collapse of Excel Secondary School – a private school – in Ejigbo area of the state.

    The school, Sanwo-Olu observed, flouted the state’s structural regulations, resulting in its collapse. He directed the complete demolition of the failed structure, while directing Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development to embark on integrity test on all schools’ structures.

    In the case of gyms, the governor said there must be constant disinfection of machines and equipment throughout the day.

    Sanwo-Olu, FAAN Parley Ahead of Sept 5 International Flights’ Resumption

    He said Lagos State Government would be taking definite decisions on the reopening of night-clubs, bars, event centres, spas and public parks next month, warning that dire consequences awaited those in this category that may want to flout the restrictive order.

    During the briefing, Sanwo-Olu further eased the restrictions on houses of worships, permitting observation of daily prayers in mosques and granting mid-week services in churches.

    He said: “As regards our places of worship, we are now also permitting the mosques to resume their five times a day prayers; and in the case of churches, they are now also permitted to resume their mid-week services. We must not forget that the Coronavirus pandemic is still very much with us, and we must therefore strive to prioritise the safety of all our children, teachers, parents, and the entire society.”

    To Curb Menace of Human Trafficking & Irregular Migration, Sanwo-Olu Inaugurates Task Force

    Since resumption of international flights, Sanwo-Olu said his administration has worked closely with the Federal Government and the Port Health Authority to monitor all flights arriving and departing the state.

    He said Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos recorded a total of 50 flights since September 5, carrying a total of 8,000 passengers.

    “Despite this inbound volume of passengers, the number of COVID-19 positive still remains on the downward trend at under five per cent,” he said.

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Obaseki Says Edo People Supported Him to Defeat Godfatherism

    Obaseki Says Edo People Supported Him to Defeat Godfatherism

    Obaseki Says Edo People Supported Him to Defeat Godfatherism

    . Ize–Iyamu: I’m Studying Election Results

    Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has celebrated his victory at the Saturday governorship election in the state, saying the collective will of the people made it possible for his triumph over godfatherism.

    Obaseki defeated his closest rival, Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), polling a total of 307,955 votes against APC’s 223,619 votes.

    Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu


    He commended the people of Edo State and supporters of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for their display of immense courage and support in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalisation as he emerged victorious in the Saturday gubernatorial election in the state.

    Obaseki praised President Muhammadu Buhari, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders who participated in the conduct of the gubernatorial election for ensuring a free, peaceful and credible poll in the state.

    However, Ize-Iyamu has also commented on his electoral defeat, saying he’s studying the results along with other party members and would announce the next line of action soon.

    Buhari Congratulates Obaseki as PDP Tells President to Sustain His ‘Newfound’ Democratic Credentials

    Obaseki, in his appreciation message in Benin City on Sunday, said: “The great people of Edo State have spoken. They have spoken loud and clear. We thank God Almighty and give Him all the glory for this victory.

    “Thank you, President Muhammadu Buhari, for defending our democracy and allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies to perform their constitutional functions without interference.

    “INEC and the security services have shown to Nigerians and the world that they are capable of conducting free and credible elections.

    “Words fail me in saluting our teeming supporters who displayed immense courage in the face of threats, intimidation and brutalisation. The collective will of Edo people made it possible for this triumph over godfatherism.

    “I am eternally grateful to my party the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and my brother governors not only for giving me the umbrella during my political storm but for the hard work which has brought me back to office.

    “Our success has reinforced my belief that there is nothing we cannot achieve as a people if we pull forces together and collectively call on God for support.

    “I reiterate that working with my Deputy, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, we are committed to Making Edo Great Again. Thank you for your support.”

    Atiku Celebrates Obaseki’s Re-election, Describes Victory as Independence from Godfatherism

    But, speaking on his electoral loss, Ize-Iyamu appreciated his supporters for enduring what he described as many evils including being prevented from exercising their franchise during the Saturday governorship election in Edo State.

    According to him, “I hereby thank and appreciate my teeming supporters, who have had to endure many evils including being prevented from exercising their franchise, for their support and determination during the election process.

    “I assure you all that I am studying the results along with other party members and will announce the next line of action soon.

    “God bless you all.”

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Buhari Congratulates Obaseki as PDP Tells President to Sustain His ‘Newfound’ Democratic Credentials

    Buhari Congratulates Obaseki as PDP Tells President to Sustain His ‘Newfound’ Democratic Credentials

    President Muhammadu Buhari congratulated the winner of the Saturday Edo State governorship election, Godwin Obaseki, and urged him to show grace and humility in victory.

    The President commended the election process in Edo State which led to Obaseki’s victory as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    This was coming as the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) celebrated the party’s victory and congratulated the people of Edo State on the re-election of their choice leader.

    Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu

    The party implored Buhari to sustain his “newfound spirit of ensuring that the people are allowed to freely choose their leaders at all elections.”

    PDP described the victory as historic, noting that it served as a strong, viable and unambiguous lesson to leaders, saying Ondo State governorship election is the next target of the party.

    Speaking on the outcome of the election as announced by INEC, Buhari said: “My commitment to free and fair elections is firm, because without free and fair elections, the foundation of our political and moral authority will be weak.

    Atiku Celebrates Obaseki’s Re-election, Describes Victory as Independence from Godfatherism

    “I have consistently advocated for free and fair elections in the country because it is the bedrock of true democratic order.

    “Democracy will mean nothing if the votes of the people don’t count or if their mandate is fraudulently tampered with.”

    The President, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, commended the people of Edo State, the parties, candidates and security agencies for conducting themselves responsibly.

    Also, speaking on its victory at Edo State guber poll, PDP commended the courage of the people of the state for resisting what it described as antics of the enemies of democracy.

    PDP said: “Our party celebrates the resilience and courage exhibited by the people of Edo state in resisting the antics of the enemies of democracy, who, as vote buyers, patrons of lions and tigers, as well as beguilers, attempted to take over the political space of Edo state.

    Edo Guber Poll: Tinubu, Obaseki taunt each other

    “We rejoice with the Edo people for helping to reset the political culture of our nation by casting their votes, protecting the votes, ensuring that their votes counted and following it, ‘bumper-to-bumper,’ to the final point of declaration.

    “Our party commends traditional institutions, faith-based organizations, youth groups, market women, artisans, community associations, trade unions, traditional leaders and other stakeholders in Edo state for standing up for their state during her critical moments.

    “On account of the reverberation of this victory across the length and breath of our country, the PDP implores President Muhammadu Buhari to continue in this newfound spirit of ensuring that the people are allowed to freely choose their leaders at all elections.

    “Our party states this in our belief that in spite of his administration’s failure in other spheres of life as well as in previous elections, if Mr. President can continue to toe this new line of allowing for electoral uprightness, history will be beckoned to be kind to him.

    Edo: PDP Supporter Boasts Obaseki’s Achievements Will Be Rewarded At Saturday Poll

    “To the ‘political godfathers,’ this election must serve as a loud lesson that power belongs only to God, which He confers through the people; and that no matter how an individual strives to lord it over others, the will of God, through the people, will always prevail.

    “Our party also notes the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under Prof. Yakubu Mahmood in ensuring that Edo election was conducted in a manner that was largely adjudged to be free, fair, transparent and credible. Nigerians hope that what we have witnessed in Edo state will not be an off-season procedure in the commission. We demand that this credible process applies to all our elections.”

    The party, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, applauded “the use of virtual portal by INEC to upload results directly from the polling unit, the base of our election, which made it impossible for electoral violators to hijack this electoral process.”

    “It is our hope in PDP that this new found image of INEC will gather more thresholds in future elections, particularly the October 10, 2020 Ondo governorship election.

    “We however call on INEC to strengthen its processes, particularly in the area of card readers, to forestall the type of delays witnessed in accreditation of voters.

    “Our party also notes the improvement in the activities of our security agencies compared to past elections. We hope that our security organs will continue in this stead in future elections.

    “The Edo election has indeed shown that credible elections are possible in our country if we play by the rules,” the party said.

    PDP also applauded the international community for their keen observation of the electoral processes as well as profiling of those who are bent on undermining our democracy and making free and fair elections appear impossible in Nigeria.

    “We urge the international community and all lovers of democracy not to relent in providing necessary advisory to our leaders on the conduct of our elections,” the party noted.

    PDP restated its support for the actions taken so far by the United States and the United Kingdom in restricting electoral violators from visiting their countries, urging “them not to restrain on further sanctions against such individuals for their sinister roles in our elections.”

    The party also appreciated the Chairman of its National Campaign Council and Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, for providing the right leadership that led to the victory in Edo State.

    It commended the party National Chairman, Uche Secondus; Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum and Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; Chairman of South-south PDP Governors’ Forum and Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa; as well as all PDP governors, National Assembly caucus, elders, leaders, critical stakeholders and teeming members of the party for their efforts in this election.

    Edo Guber Poll: Oba of Benin Tasks Obaseki, Ize-Iyamu on Peaceful Election

    PDP appreciated the candidate of APC, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, “whose participation in this election helped to deepen our democracy and enabled the people to make their choice. We invite him, in the spirit of sportsmanship, to congratulate his brother, Governor Godwin Obaseki and join him in the onerous task of leadership in the general interest of all Edo people.”

    The party thanked the media, the civil society groups and all Nigerians across board, for showing more than a passing interest in ensuring that the wish ofThe the people of Edo State for a credible and transparent election prevailed, saying: “We do not take your efforts in this regard for granted.”

    PDP assured of “a continuous partnership with all critical stakeholders in our collective desire to recreate a nation that will continue to be our pride.”

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Atiku Celebrates Obaseki’s Re-election, Describes Victory as Independence from Godfatherism

    Atiku Celebrates Obaseki’s Re-election, Describes Victory as Independence from Godfatherism

    A former vice president and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2019 general elections, Atiku Abubakar, has congratulated Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on his re-election, describing it as a victory over godfatherism and militarism.

    Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu

    He said no victory could be sweeter than Obaseki’s re-election and rejoiced with the good people of Edo State for their resilience in the face of the forces arrayed against them.

    According to him, “There is a new dawn in Edo State, and the hard-won victory of Governor Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki is not just a victory, but a Declaration of Independence from the anti-democratic forces of godfatherism and militarism.

    Edo Assembly Crisis: Tinubu berates Obaseki, says he’s dictatorial

    “No victory could be sweeter than this, and I heartily congratulate the Governor and the good people of Edo state for their resilience in the face of the forces arrayed against them.”

    While thanking Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, for his fatherly role in ensuring peaceful election, Atiku said he looked forward to the continuation of four more years of tangible development, and people centred leadership from Obaseki.

    Ahead of Ondo State governorship election, the former vice president tasked the peopedom from the oppressive grasp of godfathers to set themselves free from the shackles of oppression and external forces that seek to dominate them.

    “And to the good people of Ondo state, my message to you is that freedom from the oppressive grasp of godfathers and external forces that seek to dominate your will and eviscerate your treasury, is possible. Edo has done it. You can do it too!

    “There is a new wind of democratic change now blowing all over Nigeria. The forces of despotism, nepotism, and interlopers cannot successfully withstand this force. Nigeria shall soon be totally free from these forces, from Kaura Namoda, to Lagos. The only power that will stand in Nigeria is people power, not the power of godfathers, or despots,” Atiku said.

    Edo Guber Poll: Oba of Benin Tasks Obaseki, Ize-Iyamu on Peaceful Election

    Read the full text of Atiku’s statement here:

    The End of Godfatherism Has Come in Nigeria

    There is a new dawn in Edo State, and the hard-won victory of Governor Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki is not just a victory, but a Declaration of Independence from the anti-democratic forces of godfatherism and militarism. No victory could be sweeter than this, and I heartily congratulate the Governor and the good people of Edo state for their resilience in the face of the forces arrayed against them.

    Edo has a rich history as the centre of Black civilisation, and to this, she is adding a new record as the bastion of Nigerian democracy. This double whammy of ancient and modern glories is a testament to a people who have for centuries set the pace as a beacon of light on the African continent.

    I most heartily congratulate the Peoples Democratic Party, who stood shoulder to shoulder, with the people of Edo and their Government, in good times and bad. We in the PDP have shown that we are not fair-weather friends to the good people of Edo. In good times, we will walk beside you. In bad times, we will be your loyal ‘comrade’. We will never be a turncoat. We will never abandon the principles we once espoused so that we can dine with our nemesis. Democracy has no nemesis. And this, the PDP has again proved.

    I look forward to the continuation of four more years of tangible development, and people centered leadership from Governor Obaseki. I also seize this opportunity to thank His Royal Highness, the Oba of Benin, Omo N’oba N’Edo Uku Akpolopkolo, Ewuare II, for the fatherly role he played as a neutral catalyst for peace. That this election was, by and large, free from violence, is a testament of the long and effective shadow he casts over his domain.

    From personal experience, I know Governor Obaseki to be a magnanimous man, and I urge Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu to accept the right hand of fellowship that is likely to be extended to him. The leprous hand he is now holding can only lead to a destination of barrenness. He is amongst strange bedfellows, and I remind him that no matter how far one has gone on a wrong road, it is never too late to turn back and head in the right direction. The PDP is the right direction.

    And to the good people of Ondo state, my message to you is that freedom from the oppressive grasp of godfathers and external forces that seek to dominate your will and eviscerate your treasury, is possible. Edo has done it. You can do it too!

    Edo Guber Poll: Tinubu, Obaseki taunt each other

    There is a new wind of democratic change now blowing all over Nigeria. The forces of despotism, nepotism, and interlopers cannot successfully withstand this force. Nigeria shall soon be totally free from these forces, from Kaura Namoda, to Lagos. The only power that will stand in Nigeria is people power, not the power of godfathers, or despots.

    May God bless the good people of Edo State and may God bless Nigeria. #EdoDecides2020

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu

    Obaseki Wins Edo Guber Poll, Defeats Ize-Iyamu

    Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has defeated Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to secure another four-year term as governor of Edo State.

    Obaseki was returned elected after scoring highest number of votes in the Saturday poll, said the Returning Officer for Edo State governorship election, Akpofure Rim-Ruke.

    He said the incumbent governor secured 307,955 of the total votes, 84,336 more votes than his closest rival Ize-Iyamu, who got 223,619 votes.

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    The announcement by the returning officer was coming after the collation of the results from all the 18 local government areas of Edo State where the election was conducted.

    Obaseki won in 13 local government areas, while Ize-Iyamu won in five local government areas of the state

    More than 12 political parties fielded candidates for the election, but the election was keenly contested between PDP and APC.

    Atiku Celebrates Obaseki’s Re-election, Describes Victory as Independence from Godfatherism

    Ironically, Obaseki ran against Ize-Iyamu four years ago. The former was elected on APC platform after defecting the latter who ran on the platform of PDP. Obaseki decamped to PDP earlier this year after being denied APC ticket owing to intra-party politics.

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Sanwo-Olu Congratulates Hamzat at 56

    Sanwo-Olu Congratulates Hamzat at 56

    Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has celebrated his Deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, who clocked 56 on Saturday, describing him as a reliable, trust worthy and committed brother, friend and partner in the Greater Lagos Agenda of the incumbent administration.

    Sanwo-Olu also lauded Hamzat’s contribution to the growth and development of Lagos State in the last 17 years, saying he has all along used his position as commissioner in different ministries and now the number two citizen of the Centre of Excellence to bring about positive change to the state and the country at large.

    “Happy 56th birthday to my reliable, hardworking, dependable, supportive and committed brother, friend and partner in the Greater Lagos Agenda of our administration.

    “You made great achievements as Commissioner for Science and Technology between 2005 and 2011 as well as Commissioner of Works and Infrastructure.

    Kogi Set to Tap into LAWMA”s Strategies to Establish Robust Waste Management System

    “During your tenure as Commissioner for Science and Technology, you enforced the application of modern technology in the state’s ministries, thus changing the face of data and record keeping in Lagos and at the same time eliminating the trend of state ghost workers.

    “In execution of your mandate as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, your ministry completed several key projects for Lagos State in the mega-city era. Your achievements in the ministry were well recognised as you emerged winner of the fifth edition of the Lagos State Man of the Year Awards in September 2013.

    “We cherish your contributions to party politics and governance in our dear state. You are a worthy ambassador and champion in the blend of technocracy and politics. As a true democrat and progressive politician, you have remained steadfast in the progressive camp.

    “As you celebrate your 56th birthday, I pray that God will increase you in good health to enable you render more service to humanity, Lagos State and Nigeria,” Sanwo-Olu said.

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    Meanwhile, in the spirit of social distancing and in line with the novel Coronavirus COVID-19 safety protocols, the deputy governor has said he would mark his birthday anniversary with his family, adding that he would still perform his official duty.

    He thanked God for His mercy and promised to re-dedicate himself to the service of humanity.

    He said: “To Almighty Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.

    “Another September 19th has come to remind me to always count my blessings, to not take anything for granted. To work like no one is watching, to serve selflessly, to be giving of myself, to impact the lives of the people I have chosen to serve, to leave my footprints in the sands of time, to be humble yet firm, and to work hand in hand with my conscience at all times.

    “I am grateful for the grace and favour bestowed upon me by Almighty Allah.

    Update: Sanwo-Olu, Amaechi visit scene where train kills 2

    “To my family for their love and support, and to everyone for their belief in the Sanwoolu/Hamzat administration. I say Thank You.

    “In the spirit of social distancing and in line with the COVID-19 safety measures, I would spend my birthday with my family, and working.

    “Thank you all once again, and God bless.”

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Nigeria Bans Emirates Airlines

    Nigeria Bans Emirates Airlines

    The Federal Government has banned Emirates Airlines from operating flights into Nigeria, in line with its aviation policy of reciprocity over the rejection of Nigerians by some countries due to the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) regulations and protocols.

    This was disclosed by the Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, on his Twitter handle, explaining that the ban takes effect from September 21.

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    According to him, “The PTF (Presidential Task Force on COVID-19) sub-committee met today (Friday) with EU (European Union) Ambassadors to discuss Lufthansa, Air France/KLM ban.

    “The meeting progressed well.

    “Emirates Airline’s situation was reviewed and they are consequently included in the list of those not approved, with effect from Monday, 21st September, 2020.”

    Nigeria evacuates 300 more stranded citizens from US

    It would be recalled that the Federal Government has indicated its determination to reciprocate aviation policy against countries that block Nigerians and Nigerian carriers from entering their airspace.

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Viral Video of an Officer in Uniform Vaping “Shisha” : Police Commence Investigations

    Viral Video of an Officer in Uniform Vaping “Shisha” : Police Commence Investigations

    Nigeria Police Force has commenced investigations into the viral video showing a man seemingly wearing a Nigeria Police “uniform” vaping  Shisha.

    The viral video showing a man seemingly wearing a Nigerian Police Uniform vaping “Shisa”

    Kogi Set to Tap into LAWMA”s Strategies to Establish Robust Waste Management System

    The police, in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, said the investigation would “amongst other things seek to forensically establish the authenticity of the video, the true identity of the man in the uniform – whether he is in fact a policeman, an impostor or an actor in a movie scene.”

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    The statement added: “However, while not being prejudicial to the ongoing investigations, it is necessary to state that the character exhibited by the man in the uniform is not a true reflection of who we are as a regimented law enforcement agency – our trainings, discipline, norms and tradition.”

    Captured image from viral video showing a man seemingly wearing a Nigeria Police Uniform vapping "Shisa"
    Captured image from a viral video showing a man seemingly wearing a Nigerian Police Uniform vaping “Shisa”

    Members of the public with useful information that could assist police investigations are enjoined to provide same via: pressforabuja@police.gov.ng, or direct mesaage on Nigeria Police Force’s social media platforms.

  • Kogi Set to Tap into LAWMA”s Strategies to Establish Robust Waste Management System

    Kogi Set to Tap into LAWMA”s Strategies to Establish Robust Waste Management System

    Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has pledged technical support to Kogi State in its efforts to establish a robust waste management system.

    LAWMA Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ibrahim Odumboni, gave this indication while receiving Kogi State Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Victor Adewale Omofaiye, and his team, who were on a fact-finding visit to the agency and its waste management facilities in Lagos.

    Odumboni expressed LAWMA’s readiness to support the efforts of Kogi State to set up a proper waste management structure for the good of Kogi environment, its people and visitors alike.

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    The LAWMA chief noted that the visit offered the visitors from Kogi State an opportunity to witness the waste management processes and innovative ideas being adopted by the agency to tackle day-to-day challenges of waste management in Lagos State.

    He informed the visiting team that the agency would soon launch an educational initiative called “LAWMA Academy” with the sole purpose of imparting waste management knowledge to the younger generation.

    Odumboni advised the delegation to explore the idea of setting up recycling clubs and similar programmes in schools to lay a solid foundation for waste management in Kogi State.

    Lagos Police Decline Further Comments on Abiola’s Sons’ Detention

    While addressing the team, LAWMA Chief Technical Officer, Olohunwa Tijani, listed generation, collection and disposal as the key components of the waste management process in any geographical location, noting that proper management of those components is essential to having an effective waste management system.

    He added that in order to achieve their goal of a cleaner and healthier state, the waste management system should be purpose-driven and devoid of political interference.

    LAWMA Assistant General Manager, Waste Management Development, Essien Nsuabia, spoke on waste minimisation techniques, highlighting the importance of studying human activities in a particular geographical location for the formation of effective waste management plans and policies.

    Earlier, Omofaiye had thanked the agency for a warm reception, noting that the purpose of their visit was to tap into LAWMA’s vast experience, which has made it a global brand.

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    Omafaiye submitted that the environment is a gift from God, which required collective preservation, attesting that the level of achievement attained by Lagos State in environmental sustainability did not just happen overnight, hence the delegation’s visit to discover the secrets.

    The team, in the course of their visit, embarked on a tour of some of the agency’s facilities such as the Engineering Department, where LAWMA engineers fabricate double dino bins for waste containerisation, Olusosun Dumpsite and others, for a first-hand assessment.

    Idowu Sowunmi