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Knocks on Tinubu govt over Accountant General, finance commissioners’ UK workshop

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During a period of severe economic hardship in Nigeria, where many households struggle to afford basic meals daily, the Accountant General of the Federation, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, organized a workshop in the United Kingdom for commissioners of finance from all states and other government officials. This decision has sparked criticism from various quarters, including civil society organizations.

Despite enduring significant economic challenges during Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, Nigerians had hoped for relief under the new administration led by Bola Tinubu since May 29, 2023. However, while citizens brace themselves for better economic prospects, government officials seem unaffected, living extravagantly while the populace suffers in poverty.

The decision to hold the workshop in the UK instead of Nigeria, where it could have been more cost-effective, has been met with widespread condemnation. The workshop focused on topics such as Public Financial Management and International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS), addressing issues like accounting in hyperinflationary economies and budget implementation challenges in Nigeria.

Critics argue that given Nigeria’s ongoing foreign exchange crisis, exacerbated by recent policy decisions such as fuel subsidy removal and currency floatation, the decision to hold the workshop abroad was unjustified and a waste of resources. They contend that bringing facilitators to Nigeria or opting for virtual training would have been more prudent.

The justification provided by the Office of the AGF, citing the residency of facilitators in the UK and approval by the National Economic Council, has been met with skepticism. Critics argue that the costs incurred in sending over 40 participants to the UK far outweigh the expenses of bringing a few facilitators to Nigeria.

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Economists and public commentators emphasize the need for responsible spending of scarce foreign exchange reserves, suggesting virtual training as a more cost-effective alternative. The perceived insensitivity of government officials to the economic struggles of ordinary Nigerians has fueled public outrage, with calls for accountability and a more prudent use of taxpayers’ money.

Critics assert that the decision to hold the workshop abroad reflects a disregard for the nation’s economic challenges and prioritizes personal gain over public interest. They argue that such actions undermine the collective well-being of Nigerians and demand accountability from public officials, including the possible dismissal of the Accountant General of the Federation.

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Teachers’ Day: Oyebanji rewards 2 disabilities educators with N500,000

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Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has honored two teachers in the disability sector with cash awards of 500,000 naira each.

The governor made the gesture during the celebration of the Teachers’ Day in the state.

Mrs Adetoun Agboola, Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, hailed the governor’s commitment to inclusion.

Agboola emphasized that the recognition serves as a morale booster for the teachers, marking the first time such a gesture has been made during the Teachers’ Day celebration in the state.

“The recognition of these teachers, who work tirelessly with children with disabilities, highlights Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to inclusivity.

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“Over the past year, these educators have faced immense challenges, adapting to new teaching tools, increased documentations, and rigorous preparation before delivering their lessons. Their hard work has clearly paid off, and today’s honor reflects their unwavering commitment,” Agboola said.

She added that the awards signal that the voices of teachers working within the disability community have been heard, reinforcing the governor’s pledge to support the community in the state.

The theme of this year’s celebration is “Valuing Teachers’ Voices:Towards a New Social Contract For Education”.

CREDIT: DAILY POST

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Nigerian Govt initiates repairs on failed portions of Abuja-Kaduna dual carriageway

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Emergency repairs on failed sections of the Abuja-Kaduna Dual Carriageway has been initiated by the Federal Ministry of Works to improve conditions for road users.

A statement on Sunday by the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, explained that the contractor mobilised to the site on October 2, 2024.

According to Ahmed, the contract for Section I of the Expressway spans from kilometre 0 + 00 (Zuba, FCT) to kilometre 31 + 200 (Tafa, Niger/Kaduna States’ border), with a completion timeline of two weeks.

He further explained that the scope of the contract includes patching existing potholes and reinstating critically failed sections of the roadway, saying that the approved contract sum is N366 million.

Ahmed added, “During an inspection tour of the project on Saturday, the Director of Highways for North Central Zone I, Mohammed Goni, and the Director of Special Projects (North), Olufemi Adetunji, urged the contractor to comply strictly with the contract terms and no extensions to the completion period will be granted.”

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The statement noted that Goni described the road as a vital artery for connecting the Northern and Southern regions of the country, underscoring its role as a catalyst for economic growth.

He assured Nigerians that upon successful completion of the contract, further repairs on the remaining failed sections from Tafa to Kaduna would be awarded.

Mr Lawrence Emmanuel, the Project Supervisor, explained that work is progressing with the cutting and shaping of the failed portions extending to Dikko Junction in Niger State, stating that asphalting of the areas is expected to commence on Monday.

He observed that heavy traffic impeding work progress but assured of timely completion.

The Federal Controller of Works for FCT, Yakubu Usman, pledged daily inspections and diligent oversight of the project throughout its duration

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CREDIT: DAILY POST

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FG set to begin evacuation of Nigerians from Lebanon

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The Federal Government has announced that no Nigerian life has been lost in Lebanon amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

As Israel intensifies its airstrikes in Lebanon, the Nigerian government has commenced preparations to evacuate its citizens from the conflict zone.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, the government confirmed that the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon has been actively working to ensure the safety of Nigerians.

The statement emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting its nationals during the crisis.

“The Federal Government has begun preparations to evacuate its citizens from Lebanon. It is pertinent to mention that no Nigerian life has been lost since the beginning of the conflict,” the statement read.

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The Ministry added that the Nigerian Embassy had previously advised citizens in Lebanon to voluntarily evacuate, with commercial flights still operational.

Those in southern Lebanon, where the fighting has been most intense, were relocated to safer areas, such as Beirut, with the help of community leaders.

The government reassured Nigerians that it is in contact with relevant stakeholders and is committed to ensuring the safe return of all its citizens.

This comes as the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalates, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds across Lebanon and ground troops conducting operations near the border.

The violence, which has continued for nearly a year, has now evolved into full-scale warfare.

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CREDIT: DAILY POST

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