INSTANT NEWS

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled its plan to deploy a substantial workforce of 46,084 ad-hoc staff for the upcoming gubernatorial elections scheduled for November 11 in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states. This announcement was made by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during a meeting with the Resident Electoral Commissioners held in Abuja.

Prof. Yakubu also highlighted that a significant number of national and international organizations will engage 11,000 observers to monitor the off-cycle elections, ensuring transparency and credibility. Furthermore, the 18 political parties participating in the governorship elections are set to deploy 137,934 agents, including 130,093 polling agents and 7,841 collation agents.

Mahmood Yakubu underlined the Commission's efforts in various aspects of preparation for the upcoming elections. He mentioned that 80 media organizations have applied to deploy 1,203 personnel, comprising journalists and technical/support staff, to report on the elections. INEC is actively addressing logistical arrangements, including the provision of vehicles and boats for transportation, both on land and across water bodies.

However, the INEC Chairman expressed deep concern about the increasing insecurity and election-related violence witnessed in the three states, emphasizing the need for a secure environment to ensure the safety of all involved. Prof. Yakubu assured that the Commission is closely collaborating with the security agencies, and further engagements are planned in the coming days.

Despite the challenging security situation, INEC has already delivered all non-sensitive materials to the three states, and preparatory activities, including staff training, are proceeding as planned. The lessons learned from the 2023 general elections are being applied to enhance the Commission's performance in the forthcoming elections.

The Taraba State House of Assembly has responded to recent reports claiming that the Assembly was withholding seven years' outfit allowances for its staff. The Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Hon. Nelson Len, has clarified that the reported allowance owed to the staff was incurred during the previous administration led by Governor Darius Ishaku. When the current administration took office in June, they were concerned about the outstanding allowance and approached the state governor, Agbu Kefas. The governor approved the payment of the seven years' outfit allowance, but it will be disbursed when the state's financial situation improves.

Len emphasized the distinction between approval and payment, noting that the staff will receive their allowance once the necessary funds are available. He stressed that the Taraba State House of Assembly values its staff and recognizes their vital role in the day-to-day operations of the institution. Len also expressed concern that the false reports of funds being released for the outfit allowance could create discord between the Assembly's leadership and its staff.

The chairman urged social media content creators to verify facts before publishing information to ensure that the public is not misinformed. He further clarified that the N5 billion allocated to the House in the supplementary budget was intended for the renovation and construction of new structures within the Assembly complex and was not earmarked for the payment of outfit allowances. This statement aims to set the record straight and address any misconceptions about the allowance issue.

Nigeria's capital importation has seen a significant downturn, with a notable decline to $1.03 billion in the second quarter of 2023, marking a substantial drop from the $1.5 billion recorded in the same period in 2022. This decrease, amounting to 32.90%, was reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Additionally, the NBS report highlights a 9.04% decrease compared to the $1.13 billion recorded in the first quarter of 2023.

Capital importation is a term encompassing all foreign investments or monetary inflows into Nigeria's economy, including funds directed towards investments, trade, or business expansion.

The Bureau's data reveals that investment claimed the lion's share, accounting for 81.28% of total capital importation in Q2 2023, equivalent to $837.34 million. Portfolio investment followed with 10.37%, amounting to $106.85 million, and foreign direct investment with 8.35%, totaling $86.03 million.

In terms of sectors, the production sector led the inflow, capturing $605.04 million, which constitutes 58.73% of total capital imported in Q2 2023. The banking sector followed closely with $194.58 million, equivalent to 18.89%, and shares accounted for $68.63 million, or 6.66%.

The NBS data further indicates that the majority of capital importation during the reference period originated from the United States, contributing $271.92 million (26.39%). Singapore and the Republic of South Africa followed with $177.44 million (17.22%) and $136.95 million (13.29%) respectively.

Lagos State retained its position as the top destination for capital importation in Q2 2023, attracting investments totaling $778.06 million, equivalent to 75.52% of the total capital. Abuja ranked second with $194.28 million, representing 18.86% of the capital inflow.

The report also highlighted the financial institutions that played a significant role in capital importation. First Bank of Nigeria Limited emerged as the leading recipient, with capital inflow of $323.13 million (18.23%). It was followed by Citibank Nigeria Limited, which received $187.77 million (12.23%), and Rand Merchant Bank with $126.03 million (6.47%).

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has firmly denied any involvement in the removal of Adamawa North Senator, Elisha Abbo, by the Court of Appeal. Akpabio emphatically refuted the allegations made by Abbo, asserting that he has no motive to engage in any witch-hunt against the recently ousted legislator.

Following his unseating by the Appeal Court, Elisha Abbo had publicly accused Akpabio of orchestrating his removal and suggested that four other senators who opposed Akpabio's bid for Senate Presidency were also on the list for expulsion. Abbo specifically named Senator Orji Uzor Kalu as the next potential target.

In response to these allegations, Akpabio's Media Aide, Eseme Eyiboh, addressed the issue during a media briefing. Eyiboh expressed disappointment at Abbo's claims and characterized them as an attempt to find a scapegoat. He stressed that the decisions made by the Court of Appeal nationwide are based on the provisions of the Electoral Act and the evidence presented by petitioners, maintaining that the Senate President had no reason to pursue any form of vendetta against his fellow colleagues.

It's worth noting that Elisha Abbo was among the Senators who supported Senator Yari during the campaign for the Senate Presidency, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing political discourse surrounding his removal.

The Federal Government is taking significant steps to maintain the January to December budget cycle, with a goal of passing and signing the 2024 budget before December 31, 2023. This development was disclosed by the Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu, following a meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the Council Chamber in the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

During the briefing with State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, several ministers were present, including Mohammed Idris from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Engr. Dave Umahi, the Minister of Works, Doris Uzoka-Anite representing the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Simon Lalong from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and Nkeiruka Onyejecha, the Minister of State for Labour.

One of the significant outcomes of this meeting was the approval of the 2024-2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Papers (FSP). This approval aligns with the Fiscal Responsibility Act's requirement for the executive to present a medium-term economic outlook to the National Assembly ahead of budget presentations.

The Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu, presented some key assumptions made by the FEC regarding the 2024 budget. These assumptions included a reference price for crude oil at $73.96, an exchange rate of N700/$, oil production estimated at 1.78 million barrels per day, debt service amounting to N8.25 trillion, inflation at 21 percent, and a projected GDP growth rate of 3.76 percent.

The proposed 2024 budget was presented with an estimated aggregate expenditure of N26.01 trillion, encompassing statutory transfers of N1.3 trillion, non-debt recurrent expenditure amounting to N10.26 trillion, debt service projected at N8.25 trillion, and N7.78 trillion allocated for personnel and pension costs.

Minister Bagudu explained that the increase in debt service was attributed to the federal government's debt scrutiny at nine percent, resulting in a significant increment. Personnel costs also rose due to transfers as part of the agreement with labor.

Furthermore, the Federal Executive Council approved applications for financing from the World Bank and the International Development Association (IDA), which offers nearly zero-interest financing. The total financing from the World Bank amounted to $1.5 billion, and it was presented as support for Nigeria's efforts to restore balance in the economy and government finances.

In addition, the FEC approved an $80 million financing from the African Development Bank for the Ekiti Knowledge Zone Project (EKZ), aimed at empowering young people in technology and the knowledge economy sector.

Lastly, the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, presented a memo addressing the scope of road infrastructure inherited from previous administrations, totaling 18,897 kilometers of roads and bridges. The FEC approved the continuation of these projects and directed a committee to strategize funding solutions. Additionally, the council encouraged using concrete for ongoing projects to mitigate inflation and variation.

Notably, the Federal Executive Council meetings have now been rescheduled to take place on Mondays, diverging from their previous Wednesday schedule.

In the realm of international cinema and the quest for recognition at the prestigious Oscars, Nigeria has made its presence known with three noteworthy submissions to date. These submissions, although yet to secure a spot on the final shortlist, signify a significant stride in the country's cinematic journey.

The recent announcement of Nigeria's selection for the 96th Academy Awards is a matter of pride, especially considering the prolonged silence from the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) following the Academy's submission deadline of October 2.

Nigeria, like other countries, is allowed to submit one entry for the International Feature Film (IFF) category—a category designated for feature-length movies primarily produced outside the United States, with a significant portion of the dialogue in a language other than English.

Here are three Nigerian films that have been submitted for the Oscars:

Lionheart:

Nigeria's debut submission for the Oscars arrived in 2019 with "Lionheart," directed by Genevieve Nnaji and produced by Chinny Onwugbenu in 2018. This film, submitted for the 92nd Academy Awards held in 2020, depicted the story of Adaeze Obiagu, portrayed by Nnaji herself, who steps in to manage her father's company due to his health issues. However, it was met with a setback as the Academy rejected it for not meeting the 50% foreign language criteria at that time, primarily because the dialogue was in Igbo and Pidgin English, with the latter not yet recognized as a foreign language.

The Milkmaid:

In 2020, Nigeria submitted "The Milkmaid," a film written, produced, and directed by Desmond Ovbiagele. This Hausa-language feature was Nigeria's first film to gain acceptance by the Academy, representing the country at the 93rd Academy Awards in 2021. Despite this milestone, it didn't advance to the final shortlist. The film, currently available for streaming on Prime Video, follows the journey of a Fulani milkmaid confronting religious extremists in rural sub-Saharan Africa in search of her missing sister.

Mami Wata:

Breaking a two-year hiatus without submissions at the Oscars, Nigeria's selection for the 96th Academy Awards in 2024 is "Mami Wata." Directed by CJ Obasi, one of the contributors to "Lionheart," this black and white film in Pidgin English is a significant step forward. The film's submission marks the fulfillment of a long-standing endeavor to include Pidgin English as a recognized foreign language. The IFF Executive Committee will soon decide if "Mami Wata" will make it to the shortlist for the 96th Oscars, set to take place on March 10, 2024. This captivating film tells the tale of an African mermaid in a village embroiled in chaos due to disputes between villagers and the goddess's intermediary over the village's deteriorating state.

These three submissions reflect Nigeria's growing presence on the global cinematic stage, even as the country continues to strive for a coveted spot on the Oscars' final shortlist.

In September 2023, Nigeria witnessed a significant rise in its headline inflation, which increased by 0.90 percent, reaching 26.72 percent, compared to the 25.80 percent recorded in August of the same year. This data, unveiled in the September Consumer Price Index report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), reveals a concerning trend in the country's inflationary pressures.

On a year-on-year basis, this surge in headline inflation signifies a notable increase of 5.94 percentage points when compared to the rate in September 2022, which stood at 20.77 percent. It's evident that the inflation rate in September 2023, when measured year-on-year, has surged compared to the corresponding month in the preceding year, September 2022.

Moreover, examining the data on a month-on-month basis, the report indicates that the headline inflation rate for September 2023 was 2.10 percent, reflecting a notable decrease of 1.08 percent compared to the rate recorded in August 2023, which was 3.18 percent. This particular aspect of the report suggests that the rate of increase in the average price level during September 2023 was less pronounced than what was observed in August 2023.

These statistics shed light on the changing economic landscape in Nigeria, where inflationary pressures are becoming a growing concern. It is essential for policymakers and economic stakeholders to closely monitor and address the factors contributing to this upward trajectory in inflation to ensure the country's economic stability and the well-being of its citizens.

Elisha Abbo, the recently ousted Senator representing Adamawa North, has raised allegations suggesting Senate President Godswill Akpabio's involvement in the Appeal Court's decision to remove him from office. Abbo, in response to the court's ruling, contends that the removal of five senators, including himself, is part of a concerted effort to penalize those who opposed Akpabio's ascent to the position of Senate President.

Speaking to reporters in Abuja, Abbo explicitly named Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing APC Abia North, as the next targeted individual for expulsion from the Senate.

"I have it from a reliable source that myself and four other senators within the fold of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will be removed from the Senate through rulings from the courts, all because of working against the emergence of Akpabio as President of the 10th Senate," Abbo asserted, although he did not disclose the identities of the other senators in question.

Abbo's sentiments regarding the court's judgment are filled with apprehension, calling into question the consistency and fairness of the judiciary. He stressed the importance of the judiciary serving as the last bastion of hope for the common people.

The recent Court of Appeal decision nullified Abbo's election under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with the court confirming Amos Yohanna, who ran on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket, as the rightful representative for the senatorial district. This development underscores the contentious and dynamic nature of Nigerian politics, with consequences that reach well beyond individual senators.

President Bola Tinubu has given his nod to the appointment of new Chief Executive Officers for various agencies and parastatals within the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. This significant announcement was made in a State House release on a Friday, issued by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity.

The rationale behind these appointments is to align with President Tinubu's unwavering commitment to drive Nigeria's economic resurgence by focusing on expanding trade, especially through the facilitation of small, medium, and large-scale industries. Among the distinguished individuals selected for these key roles are: Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN (Corporate Affairs Commission); Afiz Ogun Oluwatoyin (Industrial Training Fund); Kamar Bakrin (National Sugar Development Council); Olufemi Ogunyemi (Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority); Nonye Ayeni (Nigeria Export Promotion Council); Aisha Rimi (Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission); Bamanga Usman Jada (Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority); and Charles Odii (Small & Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria).

In addition, the list of appointees includes Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke (Standards Organisation of Nigeria); Rabiu Olowo (Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria); Anthony Atuche, CFA (Nigeria Commodities Exchange); Veronica Safiya Ndanusa (Lagos International Trade Fair Complex); Lucia Shittu (Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board); and Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin (National Automotive Design and Development Council).

The statement emphasized that the President has high expectations for the new appointees. He anticipates that they will perform optimally in accordance with the newly established key performance indicators set by the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. This signifies a clear direction toward enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of these agencies and parastatals, with the overarching goal of bolstering Nigeria's economic growth through trade expansion and industry facilitation at all levels.

The Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has initiated the demolition of unauthorized structures situated along the perimeter fence of Lagos State Model College in Meiran. This significant action was officially announced by Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment, through an official statement released on Monday.

The directive to remove these illegal structures was enforced by the Monitoring Enforcement and Compliance Department of the State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources. Commissioner Wahab confirmed the commencement of the demolition operation, stating, "Demolition of all illegal structures along the perimeter fence of Lagos State Model College, Meiran, Agbado, Oke-Odo LCDA, and environs today by the Monitoring Enforcement and Compliance Department of Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources."

This move underscores the state's commitment to maintaining the integrity of its educational institutions and ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment.

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has taken decisive action to safeguard the quality of goods available to consumers in Bauchi State. On Monday, SON announced the destruction of expired and substandard goods valued at N7 million, underscoring its commitment to ensuring that only high-quality products are accessible to the public.

Adamu Abba, the Zonal Director for the Northeast Zone, SON, presided over the exercise, highlighting the importance of this action in collaboration with the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency. The objective is to ensure that all seized food and non-food items are environmentally and safely disposed of.

The primary aim behind this initiative is to protect the lives and property of citizens while preserving the environment. The destroyed products encompassed a range of items, including beverages, cosmetics, mayonnaise, peak milk, and agrochemicals, among others.

Abba stressed that the battle against substandard products is a collective responsibility that requires the active engagement of all stakeholders. He urged the public to report any suspicious substandard products found in the market to the SON office.

Acknowledging the cooperation of traders and artisans associations, Abba noted that many of them voluntarily reported expired products to SON for appropriate action. 

Murtala Sa’ad, the state coordinator of the organization, attributed this achievement to the dedication and expertise demonstrated by his personnel through their regular market surveys. These surveys led to the identification and seizure of expired, substandard, and unbranded products from various shops in Bauchi.

Sa’ad sternly warned traders against engaging in fraudulent practices, emphasizing that SON would vigorously pursue and bring to justice any defaulters. He also advised the general public to consistently check for expiry dates on products to safeguard their health and well-being. This concerted effort by SON demonstrates its commitment to upholding product standards and ensuring consumer safety.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the appointment of several individuals to serve in key roles within the Office of the President under the Media and Publicity Directorate. This significant development was conveyed through an official statement signed by Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity.

The newly appointed individuals, as listed in the statement, include:

1. Mr. Fela Durotoye, who assumes the role of Senior Special Assistant to the President, overseeing National Values & Social Justice.

2. Mr. Fredrick Nwabufo, appointed as Senior Special Assistant to the President for Public Engagement.

3. Mrs. Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe, who takes on the role of Senior Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Communications.

4. Mr. Aliyu Audu, appointed as Special Assistant to the President for Public Affairs.

5. Mr. Francis Adah Abah, who will serve as the Personal Assistant to the President with special duties.

Furthermore, the statement disclosed that President Tinubu has approved the secondment of Mrs. Linda Nwabuwa Akhigbe, who will assume the position of Communications Adviser to the President of the ECOWAS Commission.

In his message, the President emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards of decorum and decency in their interactions with the public. He urged the newly appointed individuals to work diligently in advancing his mission to restore hope to Nigerians through economic restructuring and the creation of a unified society that caters to the diverse needs of the populace.

Notably, the President's appointments align with the principles of Nigeria's federal character and meritocracy, emphasizing a commitment to fair representation and the selection of highly qualified individuals for these roles.

Justice Ibironke Harrison, presiding over a Lagos High Court, has delivered a verdict of death by hanging for police officer Darambi Vandi, who fatally shot Lagos-based lawyer Mrs. Omobolanle Raheem on Christmas Day last year.

The tragic incident occurred on December 25, 2022, at Ajah Roundabout, situated on the Lekki Expressway in Lagos State when the defendant shot Raheem in the chest. The gravity of this crime led to a thorough legal process that has now culminated in the death penalty.

During the course of the trial, the prosecution, led by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo, presented a compelling case with 11 witnesses. Among these witnesses were eight police officers, as well as two eyewitnesses and a pathologist.

This verdict reflects the seriousness with which the Nigerian justice system treats such criminal acts and underscores the importance of upholding the law and ensuring justice is served in cases of violence and wrongdoing.

Olisa Agbakoba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), expressed his disappointment at the sight of lawyers engaging in debates on national television regarding the President Bola Tinubu's Chicago State University (CSU) matter. He described this situation as an embarrassment and called for restraint among legal professionals and the public at large.

In a post shared on his social media platform, Agbakoba highlighted the growing cacophony of conflicting opinions surrounding the CSU records of both President Tinubu and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. He cautioned against what he perceived as armchair lawyers adding fuel to the fire, which could potentially escalate tensions within Nigeria.

Agbakoba emphasized the importance of maintaining silence and withholding personal views until the Supreme Court of Nigeria delivers its final verdict on the matter. He urged all concerned parties to exercise patience and refrain from participating in divisive debates.

He stated, "The cacophony of discordant voices on Tinubu/Atiku over the certificate matter is completely out of hand. This utter nonsense from armchair lawyers is heating up Nigeria dangerously." He further implored the media to refrain from turning into a courtroom by allowing public adjudication of the CSU issue.

Agbakoba also called upon the President of the Nigerian Bar Association to address lawyers who breach ethical rules by engaging in media discussions that resemble legal proceedings. He stressed the need to halt the escalation of tensions within the country and advocated for respecting the ultimate authority of the Supreme Court's judicial pronouncement, which would be binding for all concerned parties.

Yekeni Nabena, a former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has weighed in on the recent accusations made by Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 elections. Nabena stated that Atiku cannot take the nation backward and emphasized that the allegations against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are centered on a pre-election matter that has already been put to rest.

In a statement issued on Friday, Nabena asserted that Atiku should focus on preparations for the 2027 elections instead of attempting to drag the nation into the past. He also clarified that, contrary to the media buzz surrounding the Chicago State University certificate, the university's registrar, Caleb Westberb, did not accuse President Tinubu of forging the certificate he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Nigeria.

Nabena cautioned the public against falling for manipulative reports disseminated by opposition parties with the intent of causing confusion and seeking public sympathy. He firmly maintained that Nigeria is a sovereign state, and until the highest court of the land states otherwise, President Bola Tinubu's election remains legitimate, allowing him to continue governing the nation.

Furthermore, Nabena drew attention to what he considered contempt of court by Atiku concerning a matter already in the court of law. He urged Atiku to prepare for the next election in 2027 and suggested that the focus on pre-election issues would not lead to his presidency.

Nabena asserted that Nigeria has moved forward, experiencing good governance under the current administration, which he described as responsive and responsible. He highlighted the need for political discourse to align with the nation's progress and development rather than revisiting past issues.

In a bid to address the ongoing political standoff in Ondo State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken steps to halt the impeachment proceedings against the state's Deputy Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Instead, the party has initiated the formation of a reconciliation committee aimed at resolving the discord between the governor and his deputy.

During the committee's inauguration, led by the former governor of Katsina State, Aminu Bello Masari, APC's National Chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, emphasized the paramount importance of establishing a healthy working relationship between the governor and his deputy. Ganduje expressed confidence in the committee members, citing their extensive experience in public service as the key to achieving this objective.

Ganduje stated, "As a political party, we are interested in ensuring peaceful coexistence and a harmonious working relationship between the governor of Ondo State and his deputy. To address this issue, it is crucial to establish a reconciliation committee composed of individuals with relevant expertise and a deep understanding of the matter at hand."

The Masari-led panel has been given specific terms of reference, which include engaging with all relevant parties involved in the impeachment process of the Ondo State Deputy Governor, gathering pertinent facts and circumstances surrounding the situation, and advising the party on the most suitable approach for resolving the lingering issues.

The committee's mandate also extends to making recommendations to the party for the resolution of these issues and any other matters that may arise during their assignment. The committee is expected to complete its work within one week of its inauguration, delivering its recommendations within that timeframe.

In response, Masari expressed gratitude for being selected to lead the committee and assured that their intervention would lead to an amicable resolution of the discord between the governor and his deputy. The committee comprises esteemed members, including the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, Sen. Jack Tilley Gyado, Tanko Almakura, Martin Elechi, and Mohammed Abubakar, who collectively bring their expertise to the table for this vital reconciliation effort.

The Senate made a significant announcement on Friday, expressing its intent to promptly review and consider the anticipated new minimum wage bill put forth by the executive arm of the government. Senator Diket Plang, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, shared this assurance through an official statement.

Senator Plang conveyed the Senate's unwavering commitment to enhancing the living standards of workers across Nigeria and addressing the prevailing high levels of poverty in the nation. He commended the collaborative efforts of the federal government and organized labor in initiating the necessary processes to reevaluate the current minimum wage in Nigeria. This initiative is reflected in the memorandum of understanding jointly signed by the negotiating parties.

In his statement, Senator Plang stated, "The Senate Committee on Employment, Labour, and Productivity, under my chairmanship, is prepared to give expeditious attention to the passage of a new Act once negotiation on the matter is concluded and such a bill is transmitted to the National Assembly for enactment." This commitment underscores the Senate's dedication to promptly addressing the pressing issue of minimum wage.

Furthermore, Senator Plang applauded the federal government for taking proactive measures to avert a potential nationwide strike by workers the previous week. He urged all parties involved in the negotiations to honor the agreements reached, emphasizing the importance of upholding the commitments made to avoid any potential disruptions.

Senator Plang emphasized that the committee is fully aligned with the principles of decent work established by the International Labour Organization. As such, they are poised to take the necessary legislative actions to support endeavors aimed at improving the working conditions of Nigerians, including the implementation of a living wage as outlined in the decent work agenda. This commitment underscores the Senate's determination to address labor-related issues comprehensively and ensure the well-being of the Nigerian workforce.

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, provided a significant update on Friday regarding the ongoing investigation into the tragic demise of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Aloba, famously known as Mohbad.

Commissioner Owohunwa revealed that the police have made significant progress in the case, having identified a total of 26 witnesses who may possess valuable information relevant to the investigation. This development signifies the diligent efforts being made to uncover the truth surrounding the circumstances of Mohbad's passing.

Furthermore, Commissioner Owohunwa disclosed that the investigative process has reached a point where five individuals, considered as suspects, have been subjected to interrogation. This signifies a crucial step forward in the quest to unravel the details surrounding the unfortunate incident.

The disclosure by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police underscores the commitment of law enforcement authorities in ensuring a thorough and comprehensive investigation into the tragic loss of the talented singer, Mohbad. It is indicative of their determination to bring clarity and justice to the situation.

British American Tobacco Nigeria (BAT Nigeria) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to talent development and its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) agenda with a significant announcement. Kikelomo Fisayo-Okusanya, previously the Area Head of 360 Activation & Marketing Operations, has been promoted to the role of Marketing Deployment Director for the West and Central Africa Cluster (WCA). This promotion also sees her becoming a vital part of BAT's West and Central Africa leadership team, marking her as the second woman to join this prestigious cluster.

Kikelomo boasts an impressive marketing career spanning over two decades, characterized by her expertise in navigating the dynamic marketing landscape. Her journey with BAT Nigeria began in 2003 as a Trade Marketing Representative, and over the years, she has honed her skills in Trade Marketing, Brands, and Activation across West and Central Africa. In 2016, she took on the role of Area Head for Activation and Shopper Marketing, and her career continued to ascend. By 2021, Kikelomo had reached the pinnacle of her career within the company, holding the position of Area Head for 360 Activation & Marketing Operations. In this capacity, she left an indelible mark by pioneering an immersive virtual reality market experience and orchestrating a significant transformation within the Marketing Skills and Development unit.

BAT, a global organization with a presence in over 180 markets, recognizes the pivotal importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). These elements are integral to attracting and retaining top-tier talent while ensuring the delivery of exceptional products and services to a diverse global consumer base. The appointment of a second female executive to the WCA leadership team underscores BAT's resolute commitment to achieving 40% female representation in senior leadership and 45% in management roles by 2025, thereby promoting inclusivity and gender equality at the management level.

Commenting on this appointment, Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director, emphasized BAT Nigeria's dedication to "A Better Tomorrow ™" and cultivating an inclusive work environment that encourages diverse perspectives and ideas, which ultimately enhances decision-making and business outcomes. He expressed excitement about the valuable experience Kikelomo will bring to the leadership team.

It's noteworthy that BAT is renowned as a Global Top Employer in Nigeria and West Africa, and it received recognition through awards such as the Diversity and Inclusion initiatives award and the prestigious overall winner of the 2022 HR Oscars award from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria. These accolades reflect BAT's steadfast commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

In response to recent social media reports suggesting a rift between Governor Alex Otti and his Deputy, Ikechuckwu Emetu, Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Abia State's Deputy Governor, has vehemently dismissed these claims as baseless and malicious. Eke Mba, in a press release he personally issued, revealed that these allegations, which originated from a known content creator, are entirely fabricated with the sole purpose of tarnishing the harmonious relationship between Otti and his Deputy.

Eke Mba firmly denied the allegations that he himself is a member of the PDP (Peoples Democratic Party) and clarified that he is fully committed to his role as CPS and a dedicated member of the Labour Party (LP). He expressed deep concern over the proliferation of calls and messages he received regarding this unfounded story and urged both the people of Abia State and the wider public to disregard these reports, which seem to be aimed at sowing discord, negativity, and tension, all orchestrated by the online publisher, whom he identified as a PDP member.

In his press release, Eke Mba passionately stated, "I have been inundated with calls and text messages this evening over a deliberate false attempt to cause disaffection between the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, and his loyal Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Lekwachi Emetu, FNSE, proclaiming 'a cold war' between them." He also emphasized that the working relationship between Governor Alex Otti and Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu remains not only cordial but highly effective for the progress and development of Abia State.

Eke Mba assured the people of Abia State that the Governor and Deputy Governor are diligently and harmoniously working together to serve the state's interests and to foster its development. He reaffirmed his commitment as a proud member of the Labour Party and refuted any association with the PDP. He also reminded the public of his unambiguous dedication to ensuring the Labour Party's success at all levels during the 2023 elections.

To provide context, it's worth noting that earlier reports had surfaced, alleging that Governor Alex Otti had instructed Deputy Governor Ikechuckwu Emetu to dismiss Chukwudi Eke Mba, the Chief Press Secretary, on grounds of supposed PDP affiliation. Additionally, these reports claimed that certain responsibilities originally delegated to the Deputy Governor had been reassigned to another key appointee of the Governor.