Ibom Tropicana Inspection: Will Governor Eno's leadership bring a New Life to the long awaited project.

 Ibom Tropicana inspection: Will Governor Eno's leadership bring a New Life to the long awaited project.

By Anietie Edet

3min read

Published June 08 2024

The Ibom Tropicana Projects have long been a symbol of potential and promise for the people of Akwa Ibom State.

The recent inspection of the project by Governor Eno, the Commissioner for Lands, Captain Ini Ekong, the SSG, Prince Enobong Uwah, and the consultants marks the introduction of a new phase for the Tropicana Projects.

One cannot help but feel a sense of relief and anticipation upon witnessing the progress to be made on the Theme Park, the 5000-seater Conference Center, Tropicana Hotel, and Entertainment Center. These key components of the Ibom Tropicana Projects have the potential to transform the landscape of Akwa Ibom State, providing much-needed recreational and entertainment options for its residents and visitors alike.

Last year, a friend of mine returned from the United States with his family to spend Christmas in Uyo. He asked me for recommendations on where to take his children for some fun at a recreational park. I suggesting Ibom Tropicana Mall or a Christmas park. Later, he called me to express disappointment after driving past Tropicana Projects and only seeing the shopping mall and cinema. I assured him that the project is multifaceted and more developments may likely continue some day. Little did I know that governor Eno was thinking about the project.

Governor Umo Eno's commitment to completing the Ibom Tropicana Projects will be a testament to his vision of economic policy for the future of the state. By prioritizing the development of this expansive entertainment and hospitality complex, Governor Eno demonstrates his dedication to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for the people of Akwa Ibom.

Considering the direct employment opportunities that will benefit the people through this project, it is anticipated that a significant emphasis may be placed on local content, given the current high exchange rates.

While it is natural to question why the Ibom Tropicana Projects languished for so many years, it is more important to focus on the present and the future. Governor Eno's leadership visit show's determination to complete the Ibom Tropicana, and has brought new life and energy into this long-awaited endeavor, signaling a fresh start and a renewed sense of purpose for the project.

As construction will begin and the Ibom Tropicana Projects start to take shape, it is clear that Governor Eno's intervention has the potential to bring about a new boom for Akwa Ibom State. The completion of this multi-faceted development will not only enhance the state's tourism and hospitality industries but will also create numerous job opportunities and spur economic growth in the area.

The Ibom Tropicana Projects stand as a symbol of hope and possibility for the people of Akwa Ibom State. With Governor Umo Eno at the helm, there is newfound optimism that this ambitious undertaking will finally be realized, ushering in a new era of prosperity and development.

The upcoming special intervention on the Ibom Tropicana project should be under close scrutiny.

I plead with the Governor to visit the project sites monthly to monitor progress and ensure the road map is followed for the benefit of all Akwa Ibom people. I trust that, with these moves, Ibom Tropicana Projects will also be successfully accomplished.

Howard University revokes Sean Combs’ honorary degree and terminates $2 million gift and pledge agreement

 Howard University’s Board of Trustees has voted unanimously to revoke the honorary degree given to Sean “Diddy” Combs in 2014, saying he is “no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor.”

Howard University revokes Sean Combs’ honor

ary degree and terminates $2 million gift and pledge agreement

By Rob Frehse, Lisa Respers France, Josh Campbell and Elizabeth Wagmeister, CNN

 2 minute read

Published 8:15 PM EDT, Fri June 7, 2024

 Sean "Diddy" Combs attends the 2022 Billboard Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

Howard University’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously Friday to revoke the honorary degree given to Sean “Diddy” Combs in 2014, saying he is “no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor.”

The university will also return Combs’ $1 million contribution and terminate a $1 million pledge agreement from the Sean Combs Foundation, the Board said in a statement Friday.

“Mr. Combs’ behavior as captured in a recently released video is so fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs that he is deemed no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor,” the Board said in the statement.

CNN published a 2016 surveillance video showing Combs physically assaulting his former girlfriend, singer Cassie Ventura, at the now-closed InterContinental Hotel in Century City, Los Angeles.

The Washington, DC-based historically Black college or university said it will disband its scholarship program in Combs’ name.

The University is unwavering in its opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence,” the board added, linking to the school’s “Interpersonal Violence Prevention” webpage in the statement.

Howard University’s announcement comes amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the once-beloved Bad Boy Records music mogul. Combs has been named in eight lawsuits since November, when Ventura accused him in a now-settled claim of years of abuse during their relationship and of raping her in 2018, CNN previously reported.

Subsequent lawsuits have accused Combs of sexual misconduct and other illegal activity. He has not responded to all the allegations against him but has denied claims from many of the civil suits.

The US Department of Homeland Security’s investigative arm launched a federal probe into Combs and allegations of sex trafficking. Investigators searched his Los Angeles and Miami homes on March 25 as part of the probe. No federal criminal charges have been filed against Combs.

The surveillance video published by CNN could potentially become evidence in the federal investigation.

Meanwhile, investigators are preparing to bring Combs’ accusers before a federal grand jury in New York, sources familiar with the probe told CNN.

Allegations of money laundering and illegal drugs are also being federally investigated, The Southern Post has learned.

Combs recently sold a majority stake in media company and television network Revolt, which he founded in 2013, the company said.

Ibom Air Marks 5th Anniversary, Unveils Plans for the Future.

Ibom Air Marks 5th Anniversary, Unveils Plans for the Future.

By The Southern Post

 

THE SOUTHERN POST reports in Uyo, Nigeria – 7th June 2024 – Ibom Air, Nigeria’s leading airline, proudly celebrates its 5th anniversary today, marking a significant milestone on its journey to provide reliable, exceptional air travel services in Africa. Since inception, Ibom Air has been committed to offering world-class schedule reliability, on-time departures and excellent service, earning the confidence and loyalty of passengers across the region.

According to the press release signed by Aniekan Essienette GM, Marketing of Ibomair airline.

Since launching commercial operations on 7 June 2019, Ibom Air has grown remarkably, expanding its fleet, increasing its route network and enhancing the overall customer experience. The airline has consistently achieved impressive performance metrics, including industry-leading on-time performance, which has become a hallmark of its operations.

“We are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished over the past five years,” said Mfon Udom, CEO of Ibom Air. “Our success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team and the unwavering patronage of our passengers. As we celebrate this milestone, we also congratulate our Shareholders, the Government, and the people of Akwa Ibom State and commend them for their committed ownership and strong support from the start. Because of this, we remain focused on connecting people and places with excellence.”

As part of its anniversary celebrations, Ibom Air is excited to unveil ambitious plans for the future. These include positioning itself as an ESG-responsible company with a clear sustainability vision and a rapid fleet and route expansion plan to tackle connectivity issues within the  African region. It also plans to focus on technology. 

 

According to the COO, George Uriesi, “We have recently unveiled cutting-edge technology and infrastructure to improve our booking, check-in, and in-flight services while enhancing our self-service portal on the website to make it more user-friendly. Similar attention will be paid to one of our most critical touchpoints: our call center. We plan to make it a 24-hour service very shortly.”

In the area of sustainability, Ibom Air’s Initiatives aim to reduce its environmental impact through sustainable practices, including the introduction of their brand new, fuel-efficient Airbus A220-300 aircraft. The expected fleet of 11 of these aircraft will ensure that the airline’s carbon footprint is in line with global best practice, while its corporate social responsibility program will focus on giving back to the less privileged and the vulnerable, positively impacting its communities.

In further commemoration of this milestone, Ibom Air will celebrate its people with a special recognition of staff who have been with the airline since its inception. 

“At Ibom Air today and every day, we appreciate our customers who have stayed with us and have been unwavering in their commitment to building this brand. As a result, we pledge to continue to uphold the highest standards of safety, comfort and convenience for our passengers," affirmed Mr. Uriesi. 

 

About Ibom Air

Ibom Air is a limited liability company wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, a sub-national in Nigeria. It aims to set the standard as an Airline of choice for passengers by focusing on schedule reliability, on-time departures, and excellent service.  It has a fleet of seven Aircraft: five (5) Bombardier CRJ 900 and two (2) Airbus A220-300, covering Seven (7) destinations.

 

To explore Ibom Air’s route and other services, visit www.ibomair.com.

Media inquiries can be directed to mediarelations@ibomair.com.

Python swallows woman whole in Indonesia

 Python swallows woman whole in Indonesia

by Sandra Nwaokolo  June 8, 2024 Reading Time: 2 mins read

A woman has been found dead inside the belly of a snake after it swallowed her whole in central Indonesia, a local official said Saturday.

The husband of 45-year-old Farida and residents of Kalempang village in South Sulawesi province discovered her on Friday inside the reticulated python, which measured around five metres (16 feet).

The mother-of-four had gone missing Thursday night and failed to return home, forcing a search effort, village head Suardi Rosi told AFP.

Her husband “found her belongings… which made him suspicious. The villagers then searched the area. They soon spotted a python with a large belly,” said Suardi.

“They agreed to cut open the python’s stomach. As soon as they did, Farida’s head was immediately visible.”

Farida was found fully clothed inside the snake.

Such incidents are considered extremely rare but several people have died in Indonesia in recent years after being swallowed whole by pythons.

Last year, residents in Southeast Sulawesi’s Tinanggea district killed an eight-metre python, which was found strangling and eating one of the farmers in a village.

In 2018, a 54-year-old woman was found dead inside a seven-metre python in Southeast Sulawesi’s Muna town.

And the year before, a farmer in West Sulawesi went missing before being found eaten alive by a four-metre python at a palm oil plantation.

AFP

BREAKING: N60,000 Minimum Wage Proposed By Tinubu Government Too High, Can’t Fly — State Governors

 This was stated in a press statement issued by the Director Media and Public Affairs of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Hajiya Halimah Salihu Ahmed, on Friday.

The N60,000 minimum wage earlier proposed by the Bola Tinubu Government has been rejected by all the 36 state governors of the federation. 

 This was stated in a press statement issued by the Director Media and Public Affairs of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Hajiya Halimah Salihu Ahmed, on Friday.

 

The Governors described N60,000 minimum wage as too high and can't be sustainable by them, adding that approving it would push many state governments to borrow more loans to pay salaries every month.

 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had on Monday embarked on indefinite strike action after rejecting the federal government’s N60, 000 offer as minimum wage.

 

However, the Labour Union relaxed the strike for one week to give room for further negotiations with the federal government, which had promised to increase the wage from N60,000.

 

The statement reads in part, “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) is in agreement that a new minimum wage is due. The Forum also sympathises with labour unions in their push for higher wages.

 

“However, the Forum urges all parties to consider the fact that the minimum wage negotiations also involve consequential adjustments across all cadres, including pensioners.

 

“The NGF cautions parties in this important discussion to look beyond just signing a document for the sake of it; any agreement to be signed should be sustainable and realistic.

 

“All things considered, the NGF holds that the N60,000 minimum wage proposal is not sustainable and can not fly. It will simply mean that many states will spend all their FAAC allocations on just paying salaries with nothing left for development purposes.

 

“In fact, a few states will end up borrowing to pay workers every month. We do not think this will be in the collective interest of the country, including workers.

 

“We appeal that all parties involved, especially the labour unions, consider all the socioeconomic variables and settle for an agreement that is sustainable, durable, and fair to all other segments of the society who have legitimate claim to public resources.”

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had on Monday embarked on indefinite strike action after rejecting the federal government’s N60, 000 offer as minimum wage.

 

However, the Labour Union relaxed the strike for one week to give room for further negotiations with the federal government, which had promised to increase the wage from N60,000.

However, the Labour Union relaxed the strike for one week to give room for further negotiations with the federal government, which had promised to increase the wage from N60,000.

The statement reads in part, “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) is in agreement that a new minimum wage is due. The Forum also sympathises with labour unions in their push for higher wages.

 “However, the Forum urges all parties to consider the fact that the minimum wage negotiations also involve consequential adjustments across all cadres, including pensioners.

“The NGF cautions parties in this important discussion to look beyond just signing a document for the sake of it; any agreement to be signed should be sustainable and realistic.

 “All things considered, the NGF holds that the N60,000 minimum wage proposal is not sustainable and can not fly. It will simply mean that many states will spend all their FAAC allocations on just paying salaries with nothing left for development purposes.

“In fact, a few states will end up borrowing to pay workers every month. We do not think this will be in the collective interest of the country, including workers.

“We appeal that all parties involved, especially the labour unions, consider all the socioeconomic variables and settle for an agreement that is sustainable, durable, and fair to all other segments of the society who have legitimate claim to public resources.”

Former PDP Chieftain Defends Tinubu's First-Year Performance

By Anietie Edet

2min reads

Former PDP Chieftain Defends Tinubu's First-Year Performance

Bode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has offered an excuse for President Bola Tinubu's perceived poor performance in his first year in office.

George, a long-time political foe of Tinubu, said the president used his inaugural year to study and correct the failures of the previous Muhammadu Buhari administration. The former military Governor of Ondo State urged Nigerians to give Tinubu one more year to deliver on his electoral promises and turn around the country's fortunes.

Speaking in a television interview on Friday, the PDP chieftain acknowledged that while Tinubu was part of the party that formed the Buhari government, leading the nation as president is a "hell of a different thing."

"To be fair to my conscience, he has had that one-year holiday of trying to study the failures of the past administration. I have given him that one year of grace because now he has seen it and lived there," George said.

The PDP stalwart asserted that Tinubu's lack of prior presidential experience warrants a grace period of one year, drawing a comparison to former President Olusegun Obasanjo's adjustment period in his first year in office.

"Even when Baba (Olusegun Obasanjo) became president in 1999, he was still trying to figure out what happened there or vice versa in his first year. Let's give him more time," George added.

Recall that in May 2024, George had called on President Tinubu to restructure his economic team and provide Nigerians with the true state of the country's affairs.

The PDP chieftain had stated that 25 years after the return of democracy, Nigeria has not lived up to its description as the "Giant of Africa," and can only regain its rightful place through the collective determination of leaders and followers.

National Assembly Member, Paul Haruna, Donates Well To Kogi Residents As Constituency Project

By News desk

2min reads

THE SOUTHERN POST reports that a member representing Bassa/Dekina Federal constituency in the 10th National Assembly, Paul Gowon Haruna, has built a traditional well for members of his constituency.

Haruna, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress and also a former member of the Kogi State House of Assembly, donated the well as his constituency project.

However, some residents of the constituency have slammed him for the project.

National Assembly member, Paul Haruna donates well to Kogi residents as constituency project

“This is a project from a House of Representatives member representing Dekina/Bassa Federal constituency, what a shame, not even a mechanised hand pump,” one of his constituents told SaharaReporters.

Another resident said, “It’s glaring these politicians don’t rate us, a federal lawmaker constructing well and celebrating it as achievement.”

Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has granted a scholarship to Priscilla to pursue her dream of becoming a female pilot, enabling her to chase her childhood aspirations

Quick facts about the Priscilla Scholarship and my interpretation

By The Southern Post news

 According to the Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Akwa Ibom State, Comrade Ini Ememobong on Facebook, THE SOUTHERN POST reports that the commissioner explicitly stated that Priscilla never give up on her childhood dream of becoming a pilot.

Fact- A female student of Girls High School Eket named Priscilla, sees helicopters and airplanes taking off and landing at the airstrip, close to her school,  and she imagines herself flying them, someday. 

Interpretation- Environment matters. We are generally products of our environment because it plants some impressions subconsciously on our minds. Childhood dreams are important.

Fact- Priscilla shares her vision with colleagues, who tell her being a pilot isn’t a woman’s thing.

Interpretation- Your friends and colleagues may not believe in your dreams. Be careful who you tell your dreams.

Fact- She obtained a Higher National Diploma in Electrical Electronic Engineering Technology, but still desired to be a pilot.

Interpretation- While chasing your dreams, get educated. Education is a strong foundation to build your dreams.

Fact- After her HND, in 2020, she applied for admission at the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology, Zaria but they didn’t invite her for the evaluation examinations, until three years later.

Interpretation- All good things take time, some take a short time to manifest, and others take longer. Wait with hope, and trust in God.

Fact- when the admission came, she had no money to process it, but she was determined to attend the school. She reached out to Oga Yene, who publicised her appeal.

Interpretation- When in need, seek help from the right quarters. Until you seek help, you may never know where help can come from, but be careful of where you seek help from.

Fact- Priscilla’s appeal catches the attention of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, HE Pastor(Mrs) Patience Umo Eno, who drew her dear husband’s attention and sought his help for her(a person she had not known or met before).

Interpretation- when God wants to help you, HE will raise strategic and powerful channels to draw help. Of course, when a good wife makes a demand of her husband, you can consider it done.

Fact- Governor Umo Eno dispatches a team to find and bring Priscilla to him. He interacts with her and announces that he will not only sponsor her and two others through Aviation College but also called critical industry players to secure their post-training.

Interpretation - on the day of your blessing, you may not be the one hustling your source, they may contact and wait for you.

Finally, childhood dreams are valid; don’t let anyone discourage you; keep chasing your dreams, but get educated; when in need, seek help from the right sources.

To the glory of God, It ended in praise, courtesy of our listening Governor, HE Pastor Umo Eno.

I am glad that I was a witness, congratulations to Priscilla and co. Indeed it’s a golden era. ie

Super eagles World cup qualifying series, in Uyo, looking at the preparation

By The Southern Post

1 min reading

Nigeria is committed to performing at their best as they aim to secure a victory against South Africa in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifying series match on Friday night at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The Super Eagles understand that only a win will satisfy the passionate Nigerian football fans, who have been disappointed by the team's slow start to the campaign, earning only two points out of a possible six in the first two games. Additionally, several players arrived late to camp, contributing to the dissatisfaction.

The absence of Victor Osimhen, the reigning Africa Player of the Year, and injuries to key defenders such as William Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, Jamilu Collins, and Zaidu Sanusi will force Head Coach Finidi George to explore all options for defensive solutions against the AFCON bronze medalists. Despite the challenges, the team is determined to give their all and secure the much-needed victory.

Support the Super Eagles in their upcoming game!

200 babies born in one month in Benue IDP Camps

Benue IDP Camps Struggle with High Birth Rates

By Peter Dudu

The situation at Benue's Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps has reached a critical point with reports indicating an alarming trend - the camps are now recording an average of 200 new born babies per month. This shocking statistic has left many in a state of disbelief and prompted concerns about the well-being of the women and infants living in these dire conditions.

The Executive Secretary of the Primary Health Care Board expressed grave concern, stating that the women at the camps are left feeling helpless and vulnerable. With over 1.5 million IDPs spread across 17 camps in Benue State, the scale of the crisis is overwhelming. These individuals, forced out of their homes due to attacks by armed herdsmen, are now dependent on government support and charitable donations for their survival.

From Guma to Agatu, Gwer West, Kwande, Makurdi, Logo, Apa, Okpokwu, Bururku, Otukpo and other local government areas, LGAs, it’s all tales of woes as the rural Benue farmers who are known for their prowess in food production have vacated their ancestral homes and taken refuge in IDPs camps.

Despite promises from the government to facilitate their return home, many IDPs remain stranded in the camps, grappling with inadequate food and medical supplies, as well as limited sleeping arrangements. The harsh living conditions have not deterred the residents from starting families, resulting in a significant number of births within the camps.

The troubling reality of high birth rates in these challenging circumstances highlights the urgent need for improved support and resources for the displaced population in Benue State.

EFCC arraigns TStv MD, executive director for money laundering, fraud

 

EFCC arraigns TStv MD, executive director for money laundering, fraud

The TStv boss was also accused of duping a former minister.

ByAgency Report  June 6, 2024 Reading Time: 2 mins read

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Thursday, arraigned the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of Telecom Satellites Limited (TStv), Bright Echefu, and three others on nine-count money laundering charge.

Others arraigned alongside Mr Echefu before Justice Inyang Ekwo of a Federal High Court, Abuja, include the Executive Director of TStv, Felix Igboanuga; TStv and Briechberg Investment Ltd as 2nd to 4th defendants respectively.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to all the counts.

Upon their non-guilty plea, EFCC’s counsel, Tahir Sylvanus, prayed for an order remanding Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga in a correctional centre pending the hearing and determination of the case.

Mr Sylvanus hinged his application on the grounds that it took almost a year after filing the charge before the defendants could be arraigned.

The lawyer, who said Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga were a flight risk, alleged that the duo refused to turn up for arraignment after being admitted to administrative bail and the charge filed on 9 June 2023.

He, therefore, asked for a speedy trial of the matter.

But Eyitayo Fatogun, who appeared for the defendants, informed the court that a bail application had been filed on his clients’ behalf in October 2023.

He urged the court to admit them to bail, pledging that the defendants were ready to stand trial.

But Mr Sylvanus disagreed with Fatogun.

The prosecution lawyer said a counter affidavit was filed on 16 October 2023 in opposition to their bail plea.

He said though the court had a discretionary power to grant bail, the antecedent of the defendants had proven that they were a flight risk.

Justice Ekwo asked if the defendants were earlier granted administrative bail and Mr Sylvanus responded in the affirmative.

The judge consequently admitted Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga on the terms of the administrative bail earlier granted by the anti-graft agency.

He ordered the defendants to deposit their international passports with the court registrar and not to travel outside the court’s jurisdiction without prior leave of the court.

Justice Ekwo, however, threatened to revoke their bail if they failed to show up in court for their trial.

The judge adjourned the matter until 15, 16 and 17 June for trial commencement. He threatened that Messrs Echefu and Igboanuga would remain in remand until their trial lasted if their bail was revoked.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the defendants were alleged to have, on or about 18 May 2020, committed the money laundering offence, including tax evasion, unremitted Value Added Tax (VAT) and Company Income Tax and Pay As You Earn (PAYE) deducted from the salaries of 165 staff.

FLOODING DUE TO INDISCRIMINATE WASTE DISPOSAL;

 FLOODING DUE TO INDISCRIMINATE WASTE DISPOSAL; 

..... Why Residents Must Take Responsibility

Emmanuel Nicholas

2min reads

June 06 2024

Akwa Ibom State is known for being the cleanest State in Nigeria, largely due to the efforts of the government to maintain cleanliness in all ramifications. 

The Government of Governor Umo Eno made part of it first line charge in keeping the environment in the State very clean. 

The Government sweeps all the streets every day, clear drainage, cut grasses, run quarterly evacuation of surface and underground drainage systems. 

The Akwa Ibom State Government has made significant investments in acquiring waste disposal vehicles and large waste bins for residents to freely dispose of their waste. Meanwhile, in many other states in Nigeria, residents are required to pay for such services.

The State also has designated the last Saturday of each month as a sanitation day to allow residents to tidy up their surroundings. Despite strict movement restrictions in place, the majority of residents have chosen not to take advantage of this opportunity to clean their environment.

One of the critical issues facing Akwa Ibom State is the improper disposal of waste and the neglect of drainage systems by residents. 

Residents must recognize the importance of proper waste disposal and clearing of drainage to prevent flooding, But they constitute a Nuisance by dumping their waste into waterways. 

Having lived in Lagos for over fifteen years, I have never seen the state government clearing waste from the drainage systems., Instead, residents have to engage licensed sanitation agents to help them clear the drainage, dispose of their waste or to do both by themselves. 

In Akwa Ibom State, the government through the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency has established designated points where residents can deposit their waste,

And the agency then collated the waste to central disposal site for recycling and reclamation of the valley. 

 The residents do not take responsibility for cutting the grass outside their homes, They also leave this task to Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency. 

Regrettably, residents of Akwa Ibom tend to dispose of their waste in drainages and waterways, leading to flooding during the rainy season, causing property damage and loss of life. 

Ironically, these same individuals then point fingers at the government for not doing enough to prevent flooding in the state. 

A notable example was the recent flooding in a section of the Housing Estate extension in Uyo, the state capital.

 Upon assuming office as the Governor of Akwa Ibom State in 2015, Deacon Udom Emmanuel encountered flooding in the area that tragically claimed the life of a young girl. 

At that time, the entire Estate lacked asphalt roads and drainage systems. 

As a conscientious leader, Governor Emmanuel took action by awarding contracts for the construction of 28 streets equipped with drainage on both sides, and it was completed and commissioned. 

From then such incidents never occurred. 

This type of calamity could be averted if residents took responsibility for properly disposing of their waste and maintaining clean drainage systems, instead of solely relying on the government for these duties.

Another critical element in ensuring a flood-free future for Akwa Ibom State is prudent urban planning.

 Residents should obtain proper approvals before constructing buildings to prevent encroachment on waterways and designated drainage areas.

I recall an incident where a man constructed a house that became a barrier that blocked waterways on one of street's exit from housing Extension into Mbak Road. It required the intervention of the Uyo Capital City authorities, who dismantled the structure and allows water to flow. 

Therefore, collaborating with government agencies on urban development projects will help prevent construction in flood-prone zones and ensure that structures are not erected over underground drainage systems.

Obstructions such as these buildings hinder the opening of underground drains when it is blocked, leading to blame being unfairly placed on the government for demolition actions to unblock the drains. 

To prevent flooding in Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State, and other cities, residents must make a concerted effort to take responsibility and commit to cleaning and clearing waterways.

 They should also work together with the government of Pastor Umo Bassey Eno to keep Akwa Ibom State clean, ensuring that the state maintains its reputation as the cleanest state in Nigeria and continues to win awards for cleanliness.

Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency have been a very proactive agency that have been ensuring Akwa Ibom State remain clean and very conducive for human habitation.

There is need for residents to assist the Agency in ensuring the job is done perfectly .

A'IBOM ASSEMBLY APPROVES SIX MONTHS TENURE EXTENSION FOR LG TRANSITION COMMITTEES

 A'IBOM ASSEMBLY APPROVES SIX MONTHS TENURE EXTENSION FOR LG TRANSITION COMMITTEES

The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has approved an extension of local government Transition Committee for another six months, pending the conduct of elections into local government councils. 

This followed a report of the House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs presented by its Chairman, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Mfon Idung, at Plenary on Thursday.

According to him, the current Transition Committee Chairmen and members in all the local government councils were enthusiastic to implement the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno through implementation of capital projects, personnel development and humanitarian services.

"The House Committee in carrying out its mandate, visited each local government council and upon arrival, was received by Transition Committee Chairmen and their team, and subsequently taken round project sites such as the Arise Demonstration Farms and other projects of each Council."

"Full allocation accruable to each local government council has been released to the Council by His Excellency, the Governor, since the inception of the Interim Administration."

"Most of the Local Government Transition Committee made judicious use of the funds allocated to their councils.  There was no local government council without a signature project", Idung said in his report.

The Lawmaker said the House Committee was satisfied with the performance of the Local Government Interim Administration except for a few Local Government Councils which are under the watch of the Committee.

In his contribution, the Deputy Leader of the House, Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob (Nsit Ubuim), clarified that despite the resolution of the House, the State Governor however, reserves the right to  re-appoint or drop any Transition Committee Chairmen. 

Reacting, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, directed the Clerk to communicate the resolution of the House to the Executive Governor.

Press Unit,

Office of the Speaker,

Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, has met the 48-hour deadline set by President Tinubu on Minimum Wage

Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, has met the 48-hour deadline set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to present a new minimum wage template.

According to online reports, the template proposes a new minimum wage of N105,000 (approximately $220 USD) per month for Nigerian workers. President Tinubu is currently reviewing the proposal, and an official announcement is expected to be made soon.

It is important to note that the Labour Unions had gone on a strike action on Monday after their meeting with the National Assembly leadership failed to yield a satisfactory result. The strike had a significant impact, grinding economic activities to a halt across the country, including the closure of international airports, schools, courts, banks, and hospitals.

The presentation of the new minimum wage template by the Minister of Finance is a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing dispute between the government and the Labour Unions. The outcome of the President's review and the subsequent announcement will be closely watched by the Nigerian public and the international community.

Spain to join South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at ICJ

 Spain to join South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at ICJ

Spain made this decision so that “peace returns to Gaza and the Middle East,” Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares explained in a press conference on Thursday.

We

NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA • JUNE 6,

Spain made this decision so that “peace returns to Gaza and the Middle East,” Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares explained in a press conference on Thursday.

“A large-scale war that does not distinguish between civil and military objectives” is taking place, and the risk of escalation is increasing,” he said.

South Africa submitted the case in late December 2023, accusing Israel of committing acts of genocide in the Gaza Strip in violation of the 1948 Genocide Convention.

On January 26, the ICJ ordered Israel to take all measures within its power to prevent genocide and to ensure that its military does not commit genocide.

It further called on Israel to halt incitement against Palestinians as a group and to take immediate measures to ensure humanitarian aid.

On May 24, the ICJ ordered Israel to stop its military offensive in Rafah in southern Gaza with immediate effect.

“The ICJ precautionary measures are very far from being fulfilled,” Mr Albares remarked. “Spain does not rule on the crime itself; that is the court’s job.”

Mr Albares added that Spain will present a report to the court to justify its participation in the case.

(Xinhua/NAN)