ECOWAS Parliament Elects First Female Speaker From Togo

By Erebi Agedah Imisi

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament has elected its first female Speaker, Memounatou Ibrahima.

The Togolese was chosen as the new Speaker during the 2024 Second Extraordinary Session of the Sixth Legislature in Kano, Northwest Nigeria.

Hon. Ibrahima, along side Senou Soklingbe, and Patrick Kodjovi Senam Bolouvi, took their oaths before the ECOWAS Parliament in plenary during the 2024 Second Extraordinary Session on Thursday.

She emerged as Speaker due to the rotational system of the Community Parliament, which follows an alphabetical order in accordance with the Supplementary Act on the Enhancement of Power.

The previous Speaker of the Fifth Legislature, Sidie Mohamed Tunis, was from Sierra Leone.

Ibrahima served as the third Deputy Speaker in the Fifth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament and has been a member since 2021.

She takes over from Senator Barau Jubrin, the Nigerian leader of the delegation, who was elected the First Deputy Speaker at the inauguration of the Sixth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament on April 4, 2024. Senator Jubrin had been acting as Speaker to maintain leadership continuity in the Community Parliament.

During the inauguration of the Sixth Legislature of the ECOWAS on April 4, 2024, the Togolese delegation was absent because they had not conducted elections to send their representatives to the Community Parliament.

Ibrahima was announced as Speaker after her parliamentary colleagues from Togo presented her as their choice. She was subsequently elected unopposed.

Following her election, Ibrahima was immediately presented with the instrument of authority, the gavel, by the Acting Speaker, Nigeria’s Senator Jubrin.

AATSG Celebrates with President Bola Tinubu On His One Year In Office

By Erebi Agedah Imisi

The members of Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu Support Group (AATSG) are filled with pride and joy as we felicitate with our President and Commander in Chief, Bola Tinubu, on his one year anniversary in office. This milestone is a testament to his dedication, leadership, and vision for the future of our great nation, Nigeria. As supporters of Asiwaju Tinubu, we stand by his side in solidarity and offer our unwavering support as he continues to steer the ship of our beloved country towards prosperity and progress.

Over the past year, President Tinubu has demonstrated exemplary leadership and governance, tackling various challenges head-on with a steadfast commitment to the wellbeing of the Nigerian people. His policies and initiatives have brought about positive changes in various sectors of the economy, such as infrastructure development, job creation, and social welfare programs. The President's focus on improving the quality of life for all Nigerians is commendable, and we applaud his efforts in making strides towards a more prosperous and equitable society.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, it is important to reflect on the progress made thus far and also acknowledge the areas where more work needs to be done. While President Tinubu's administration has achieved notable successes in certain areas, there are still lingering challenges that require urgent attention. The economic hardship faced by many Nigerians, the security threats posed by insurgent groups, and the need for improved governance and accountability are pressing issues that must be addressed with vigor and determination.

As members of the AATSG, we urge President Tinubu to redouble his efforts in addressing these crucial issues and implementing policies that will benefit all Nigerians. We believe that with his leadership and vision, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges and emerge as a stronger and more prosperous nation. It is imperative that the President listens to the concerns of the people, engages with stakeholders from various sectors, and works towards finding sustainable solutions that will improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

In light of the current economic hardships faced by many Nigerians, President Tinubu must prioritize job creation, poverty alleviation, and economic empowerment initiatives. Unemployment rates remain high, particularly among the youth, and many Nigerians continue to struggle to make ends meet. The President's administration must focus on creating a conducive business environment, attracting investment, and promoting entrepreneurship to spur economic growth and provide opportunities for all Nigerians to thrive.

Additionally, the security situation in the country remains a major concern that requires immediate attention. Insurgent groups, banditry, and other forms of criminal activity threaten the peace and stability of Nigeria, causing fear and uncertainty among the populace. President Tinubu must work with security agencies to enhance intelligence gathering, improve border security, and increase collaboration with neighboring countries to combat the scourge of terrorism and criminality. The safety and security of Nigerians must be a top priority for the President's administration, and decisive action is needed to restore peace and stability to the country.

As members of the AATSG, we congratulate President Bola Tinubu on his one year anniversary in office and commend his dedication to serving the Nigerian people. We stand by his side in solidarity and pledge our support as he continues to lead our nation towards a brighter and more prosperous future. We urge President Tinubu to remain steadfast in his commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, address the pressing issues facing the country, and work tirelessly to create a more inclusive and sustainable society for all. Together, we can build a better Nigeria for current and future generations.

Nigeria: Female Journalists Urges Govt To Subsidize Sanitary Pads

By Erebi Agedah Imisi

In anticipation of International Menstrual Hygiene Day on May 28, the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT chapter has called on the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to subsidize sanitary pads, making it more affordable.

This, according to the association, is an initiative aimed at promoting menstrual hygiene and dignity for all women.

The association also proposed that sanitary pads be made available in all public restrooms, ensuring women have access to them when needed.

This formed part of the communiqué released to the media following NAWOJ FCT's congress held over the weekend, where pressing issues affecting the state of the union and the nation were discussed.

Chaired by Comrade Bassey Ita-Ikpang, the all female association further expressed deep concern over the rising cost of sanitary pads, highlighting the negative impact on the mental and physical well-being of girls and women in Nigeria.

 Also, the congress criticized the low quality of available pads, which further worsens the issue as the association urged its members to support girls in need within their communities, providing assistance and guidance to ensure their well-being.

 NAWOJ FCT raised concerns about the escalating prices of drugs, attributing this to the exodus of pharmaceutical companies from the country. The association called on the Federal Government to stabilize drug prices and ensure the availability of essential medications.

 While commending the government for its efforts in combating insecurity, NAWOJ FCT urged for intensified measures to ensure the safety of all Nigerians.

 The association highlighted the increasing hardship and cost of living, particularly in the FCT. It noted a worrying rise in mental health issues among women, some of whom are now seen roaming the streets. NAWOJ FCT called on the Social Development Secretariat to address this growing concern urgently.

 Furthermore, the association pointed out deteriorating sanitation conditions in the FCT, specifically citing Kado Estate, where refuse has not been collected for over three weeks. NAWOJ FCT urged the FCT administration to ensure proper sanitation in the community.

 However, the congress resolved with a renewed commitment from NAWOJ FCT to advocate for women's rights and well-being, urging continued efforts from both the government and stakeholders to address these critical issues.

Meanwhile, Digital Rights Lawyer Barrister Mojirayo Ogunlana, delivered an insightful discussion on Virtual Gender-Based Violence. The congress also welcomed Lemmy Ughegbe, Executive Director of Men Against Rape, who emphasized the importance of protecting female journalists in the virtual space. Both speakers provided valuable guidance on safeguarding against online threats, ensuring journalists can continue their vital work without fear.

The congress, attended by 76 members, was supported by the Africa Health Budget Network.

NYPF Applauds Recognition Of Outstanding Leaders As Heritage Times Holds AH Awards

Nigerian Young Professionals' Forum (NYPF) has commended Heritage Times on the successful conduct of the second edition of African Heritage Awards in Lagos, where outstanding leaders on the continent were conferred with awards of excellence. 

The event which took place in Lagos on Saturday saw former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama, a former leader of Botswana, Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama and others honoured for their contributions towards the development of the continent. 

The 2024 edition of the annual award ceremony had as the theme, "Shaping Africa’s Path To Prosperity". 

In a statement made available to the press in Abuja on Sunday, the President of NYPF, Mr. David Osadolor applauded the award organisers, Heritage Times, a leading online newspaper publication in Africa with rich contents in politics, sports, lifestyle, entertainment and more for introducing the award ceremony as a way of appreciating those who have left indelible footprint in service of the people. 

According to Osadolor, the annual ceremony will not only spur leaders across the political, business and other spectrum of life to give in their best but will serve as a guiding light to young people aspiring for greatness in their various endeavours. 

He said, "At a time when service delivery, integrity and honesty is rapidly nose-diving, the culture of excellence can only be revived through recognition of those who have held their head high. 

"Interestingly, Heritage Times is strategically doing this when these leaders are alive. Nothing gives greater fulfillment than being recognised while you are still alive than when you are gone. 

"It is also a wake-up call on youths and young professionals across who want to stand on the stage of fame in life to begin now to aspire for greatness", he stated. 

Other distinguished Africans awarded alongside former Ghanaian president were, Dr. Jayne Onwumere, CEO of PWAN Group (African Humanitarian Award) and Africans Rising Movement (African Advancement Award for Social Justice and Advocacy).

NIPR moves for nonviolent communication at spokespersons summit

President of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR, Dr Ike Neliaku has emphasized the critical need for a shift towards nonviolent communication as the country navigates through a delicate time.

 

Dr Neliaku noted this on Tuesday in Abuja while delivering a welcoming remarks as the host of the spokespersons summit with the theme, “Change Narrative, Change Society,” which had in attendance spokespersons from both public and private sectors seeking to address the challenges of communicating in an era of information overload.

 

According to Neliaku, the Nation is filled with violent communicators adding that part of the objective of the summit is to foster the transformation and shift towards nonviolent communication in the nation.

 

‘‘Our nation is filled with violent communicators, and it is time that we begin the process of nonviolent communication. That's one of the outcomes that we hope to have from this summit’’ he said.

 

Bringing together experts from both within and outside Nigeria, the NIPR boss emphasized on the invaluable insights that will be shared by experienced spokespersons during the summit. Recognizing the pressures they face, he stressed the importance of equipping them with essential skills, especially through specialized training clinics.

 

Amidst current challenges, Neliku lamented on the consequences of individuals assuming roles beyond their capabilities, resulting in chaos and conflict. He asserted that at the end of the summit, spokespersons will be equipped fit into their roles of Nation building and to embrace their identity as Nigerians and prioritize the nation's development.

 

Highlighting the indispensable role of public relations in nation-building, Neliku added that the NIPR's mandate to drive the process of reputation management in the country cannot be over emphasized as he applauded the federal government's involvement in shaping the institute's direction.

 

Also, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris noted that communication is not merely about words, but about making a real impact on people and organizations.

 

Idris who is also the chief host at the event maintained that “This summit is a pivotal event aimed at transforming the landscape of communication in Nigeria.

 

Speaking on the theme of the summit, the minister said the theme “resonates deeply with the challenges facing us as a people.

 

“I am glad to note that this summit brings together spokespersons from both the public and private sectors, spanning national and sub-national levels. As communication professionals, you must be aware that you play a crucial role in shaping perceptions, disseminating accurate information, and fostering trust. Indeed, the nation’s peace, stability, growth, and development can only be attained by how we communicate.” He said.

 

In the same vein, Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, while declaring the summit open tasked public relations professionals in the country to serve as guardians of truth and national integration through effective communication in the face of a growing threat by purveyors of disinformation.

 

VP Shettima who was represented at the event by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, said, “Through your commitments and sacrifices, the voices of the misrepresented and the misunderstood are amplified, and the vision of a better tomorrow is brought to fruition.”

 

Cautioning against the threat of misinformation, Senator Shettima stated: “You are not only the spokesperson, a gatekeeper of truth, but also a defender of the public at the mercy of fake news merchants and their impressionable mercenaries.

 

“We can never win the war against misinformation and disinformation unless our responses to them are timely and evidence-based,” he warned. “You are a pillar of the nation’s security framework.”

 

Dignitaries at the opening ceremony of the summit included Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State represented by the Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi; Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye; Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi; Chairman, Senate Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Chairman, Nigeria-Australia Group, and member representing Mayo-Belwa/Jada/Ganye/Toungo federal constituency, Hon. Muhammad Inuwa Bassi.

 

Others are Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa; former Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu; Chairman of Broadcasting Organization of Nigeria, BON, Salihu Abdulhamid Dembos, former Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority, NTA, Prof Tonnie Iredia, and Public Diplomacy Counselor to the United States of America’s Mission in Nigeria, Robert Gabor, among several others.

 

 

Can education lead to efficiency, confidence, critical thinking, and intelligence?

 

Abayomi Odunowo.

When it comes to success, formal education is often thought to be the key. Many people believe that a university degree is necessary in order to achieve financial stability and personal growth. However, the reality is that success does not always come from a traditional education. This is demonstrated by the scenario of giving N150,000 to a secondary school dropout and watching them start an Indomie business compared to giving N1m to a university graduate.

In the scenario provided, it is clear that the secondary school dropout has a different approach to utilizing financial resources compared to the university graduate. With just N150,000, the dropout is able to invest in a stove, frying pan, cooking oil, and other essentials to kickstart their Indomie business. This demonstrates resourcefulness, creativity, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Instead of squandering the money on transient pleasures like gadgets and trendy clothing, the dropout is focused on building a sustainable source of income.

Within three years, the secondary school dropout has not only established a successful business but has also managed to build a stable foundation for their future. They have acquired assets such as a plot of land worth N1 million, a Tokunbo car, a TV, sofa, bed, and other necessities for a comfortable life. This success can be attributed to their hard work, dedication, and smart financial decisions. They have transformed a small investment into a thriving business and valuable assets through sheer determination and perseverance.

On the other hand, the university graduate who receives N1m does not display the same level of financial responsibility or foresight. Instead of investing in their future or starting a business, they choose to spend the money on luxury items like Samsung Galaxy phones, skinny jeans, and extravagant dates with multiple girlfriends. Their priorities seem to be centered around appearances, instant gratification, and social media validation rather than building a solid foundation for success.

Within a short period of time, the university graduate finds themselves in a precarious financial situation. They are unable to sustain their lavish lifestyle and quickly deplete the funds they received. As a result, they are forced to rely on credit for basic necessities like Indomie and either struggle to pay rent or retreat to the safety of their parents' home. Their lack of financial literacy, poor decision-making, and materialistic mindset have led them down a path of financial instability and dependence.

This stark contrast between the secondary school dropout and the university graduate highlights the importance of mindset, attitude, and resourcefulness in achieving success. While formal education can provide valuable knowledge and skills, it is not the sole determinant of success. The ability to make smart financial decisions, adapt to challenges, and seize opportunities is what sets individuals apart on the path to success.

the scenario of giving N150,000 to a secondary school dropout and watching them thrive in their Indomie business while giving N1m to a university graduate and witnessing their financial downfall serves as a powerful reminder that success is not guaranteed by a degree or diploma. True success is achieved through hard work, determination, and a strategic approach to managing resources. It is not about the size of the investment, but rather how it is utilized to build a secure and prosperous future.

In today's society, there is a common belief that education is the key to success. We are often told that with a good education, we can achieve anything we set our minds to. However, the question remains: does education truly breed waste, arrogance, gullibility, and stupidity?

One argument is that education does not necessarily lead to waste, arrogance, gullibility, and stupidity, but rather, it can make individuals look down on certain opportunities or jobs as beneath them. Many educated individuals believe that certain jobs are not "befitting their status" and may refuse to consider them, leading to missed opportunities for growth and success.

Furthermore, statistics show that unemployment rates are actually higher among the educated population than the uneducated. This raises the question of whether education truly guarantees success and job security. In some cases, the uneducated are more willing to take on "dirty, menial jobs" that the educated may shun. This willingness to adapt and take on any job can ultimately lead to success and financial stability for the uneducated individual.

Additionally, the uneducated are often more innovative and resourceful. They are willing to think outside the box and take risks that the educated may be hesitant to take. This creativity and willingness to explore different avenues can lead to unexpected success and opportunities for growth.

In the end, it is important to remember that success is not solely dependent on education. The ability to work hard, remain humble, and adapt to different situations is just as important, if not more so. As the saying goes, "Work as if you have no certificate, remain humble." This advice serves as a reminder that success is not guaranteed by education alone, but by one's willingness to put in the effort and remain open to all possibilities.

In conclusion, while education is important and can provide valuable skills and knowledge, it is not the only factor in determining success. The willingness to work hard, remain humble, and adapt to different situations is equally important. Rather than breeding waste, arrogance, gullibility, and stupidity, education can empower individuals to think critically, innovate, and succeed in a variety of ways. Ultimately, success is not determined by a certificate or degree, but by one's drive, determination, and willingness to persevere.

Once more, Naira triumphs over Dollar with a substantial increase in value

Abayomi ODUNOWO.

The sudden drop in the exchange rate for the dollar to N1,000 on Monday sent shockwaves through the financial markets, causing a frenzy among currency traders and speculators. The surge in the value of the naira was unexpected, catching many off guard and leading to significant financial losses for those who had been holding onto dollars in the hopes of making a profit.

The parallel market, also known as the black market, is a significant player in the foreign exchange market in Nigeria. While the official exchange rate is controlled by the Central Bank of Nigeria, the black market operates independently and is driven by supply and demand dynamics. Speculators often take advantage of fluctuations in the exchange rate to buy and sell currency for a profit. However, the rapid depreciation of the dollar caught many speculators off guard, leading to panic selling as they tried to unload their hoarded foreign currency before it lost more value.

The sudden appreciation of the naira to N1,000 on Tuesday was a welcome relief for many Nigerians who had been struggling with the high cost of living. With the value of the naira increasing, the prices of imported goods and services are expected to decrease, making life more affordable for the average Nigerian. However, the flip side of this is that those who had purchased dollars at higher rates are now facing losses as the value of the dollar declines.

The surplus of dollars in the market with low demand has raised questions about where these excess dollars are coming from. Some speculate that they may be coming from offshore investors or remittances from Nigerians living abroad. Regardless of the source, the influx of dollars has led to a decrease in demand for the currency, causing its value to plummet on the black market.

The implications of the sudden depreciation of the dollar and the appreciation of the naira are far-reaching. Businesses that rely on imported goods and services may benefit from the lower exchange rate, making their operations more cost-effective. However, those with dollar-denominated debts or contracts may find themselves in a precarious situation as the value of the dollar continues to decline.

The Central Bank of Nigeria is likely monitoring the situation closely and may take steps to stabilize the exchange rate. Interventions such as selling dollars in the foreign exchange market or tightening monetary policy could help to prevent further fluctuations in the exchange rate. However, the central bank must strike a delicate balance between supporting the naira and maintaining price stability in the economy.

The sudden drop in the exchange rate for the dollar to N1,000 on Monday has caused a surge in the value of the naira, leading to financial losses for many speculators. The surplus of dollars in the market with low demand has contributed to the depreciation of the dollar, causing its value to plummet on the black market. While the appreciation of the naira may benefit some businesses and consumers, those with dollar-denominated debts or contracts may find themselves facing financial difficulties. The Central Bank of Nigeria will likely take steps to stabilize the exchange rate and prevent further fluctuations in the currency market. Ultimately, the exchange rate dynamics in Nigeria are complex and influenced by a multitude of factors that require careful monitoring and management. (TribuneTimes)