The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fulfilling the payment of the N35,000 wage award and addressing the issue of the new minimum wage, as agreed with the labour unions in 2023. The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, made this announcement during her visit to the office of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Abuja on Wednesday. As part of the agreement reached in 2023 between the trade unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and TUC, and the Federal Government, a N35,000 wage award was promised to workers for six months, along with…
Author: Editor Francis
President Bola Tinubu has approved the payment of renewal fees for the Group Life Assurance for federal government workers. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this on Wednesday at the end of the first 2024 meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held in Abuja. He said that this was a sequel to a memo brought by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Folasade Yemi-Esan, to the council. He said the president approved about N9.6 billion for 12 local insurance firms to cover the federal workers in case of unforeseen eventualities in the course…
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, officially inaugurated the Abia Global Economic Advisory Council on Thursday, as part of the state government’s strategic plan to foster comprehensive economic development. The 19-member council, tasked with transforming Abia into a self-sustaining economic hub, boasts a distinguished lineup, including co-chairmen Ms. Arunma Oteh, Khaleefa Sanusi II, and Mr. Bolaji Balogun. Other notable members comprise Mr. Victor Onyenkpa, Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, Mr. Chidi Ajaegbu, Mr. Uche Orji, Mrs. Ndidi Nwuneli, Mr. Chika Nwobi, Dr. Olugbenga Adesida, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Mazi Clement Owunna, Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, Mr. George Agu, Mazi Uzo Nwankwo,…
A High Court in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, has handed down death sentences by hanging to three individuals convicted of kidnapping and murdering Chief Abbot Ogbobula in June 2017. Originally, four suspects were charged in connection to the kidnapping and murder case. However, one of the accused was acquitted and discharged by the court. The trio facing the death penalty includes Boma Thompson, Emelike Mathias, and Daniel Thankgod. They were found guilty on multiple counts, including conspiracy to kidnap, kidnapping, conspiracy to murder, and murder. In the judgment delivered by Justice Monina Danagogo on Thursday, the first,…
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken outlined the Biden administration’s approach to the complex U.S.-China relationship. Stressing the importance of stabilizing ties and preventing competition from turning into conflict, Blinken highlighted the direct engagement between President Biden and President Xi in San Francisco. The aim is to address differences, ensure clarity, and explore potential areas for cooperation. Blinken noted key developments, including the restoration of military-to-military communications and a significant breakthrough in combating the fentanyl crisis. The U.S. secured an agreement with China to tackle the illicit production and export of synthetic opioids, specifically focusing on fentanyl…
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently discussed evolving dynamics in the Middle East and emphasized the transformative potential of regional integration and security collaboration. Blinken highlighted the impact of technology democratization, leading to the empowerment of groups challenging nation-states. He underscored a new equation where Arab and Muslim countries are willing to establish relationships with Israel, focusing on integration, normalization, and security assurances. In the interview, Blinken stressed the importance of a regional approach, including a pathway to a Palestinian state, which could unite the region and isolate Iran and its proxies. He acknowledged the challenges in transitioning to…
In a compelling address at the World Economic Forum, Administrator Samantha Power of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has called for a heightened global effort to address the widespread issue of lead poisoning affecting one in two children in low- and middle-income countries. Globally, lead poisoning claims the lives of over 1.6 million people annually, surpassing the combined mortality caused by HIV and malaria. The majority of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income nations. Lead, a potent neurotoxin with no safe level of exposure, can cause severe brain damage, hindering educational attainment and reducing future productivity.…
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has suspended its earlier approval for MTN Nigerian Communications to initiate the phased disconnection of Globacom Limited (Glo) from its network. This decision, initially set to take effect on Thursday, January 18, 2024, stems from a longstanding interconnection debt dispute between the two telecom giants. As outlined in a statement signed by Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Mouka, the NCC announced that both parties have now reached an agreement to settle all outstanding issues. In light of this resolution and in the exercise of its regulatory authority, the NCC has decided to postpone the phased…
The Federal Capital Territory High Court has approved the request of Godwin Emefiele, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), to travel outside of Abuja. Emefiele, who appeared in court on Thursday, January 18, sought a modification of his bail conditions. According to The Nation, the court has granted permission for Emefiele to travel but emphasized that he must remain within the borders of the country. The initial bail conditions had restricted his movements to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The court’s decision to allow travel signifies a variation in the terms of his bail, enabling Emefiele…
U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Mike Hammer, is set to undertake a crucial mission to Kampala and Addis Ababa from January 17 to 24. His itinerary includes participation in the 42nd Extraordinary Summit of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Assembly Heads of State and Government in Kampala. The summit will primarily focus on addressing the ongoing tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, as well as the situation in Sudan. The United States, through Ambassador Hammer, expresses support for the IGAD diplomatic initiative and reiterates its recognition of the Federal Republic of Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within…
British head of state King Charles III will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure to treat an enlarged prostate, Buckingham Palace said Wednesday. “In common with thousands of men each year, The King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate,” said a palace statement. “His Majesty’s condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure,” it added. The 75 year-old monarch’s public engagements will be postponed for “a short period of recuperation,” said the palace. Charles became king upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022. He is…
Shell PLC has clarified its continued presence in Nigeria, outlining three key businesses unaffected by the recent SPDC transaction in the Niger Delta. These include Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company Limited, actively engaged in oil and gas production in the deepwater Gulf of Guinea. Another unaffected entity is Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, dedicated to supplying gas to domestic industrial and commercial clients. Furthermore, Daystar Power Group, specializing in integrated solar power solutions for commercial and industrial entities across West Africa, remains outside the scope of the SPDC deal. Shell emphasized its ongoing 25.6% stake in NLNG, a significant player…