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Over One Million Nigerian Youths To Benefit From NYSP  – Youth Minister

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Joel Ajayi 

Minister of Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim has disclosed that over one million young Nigerians will benefit from the National Youth Skills Program (NYSP) to avail them with the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy.

Ibrahim gave the disclosure in Abuja during the 25th Nigeria Democracy Day Anniversary Youth Program organized to celebrate the country’s 25th Democracy Day, with the theme: “25 Years of Enduring Democracy: Prospects for the Future.”

She revealed that the Ministry is currently drafting bills for the National Assembly to institutionalize a 30 percent youth quota, restructure the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (CLTC), and establish the National Youth Fund (NYF).

“These legislative actions will solidify Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and ensure sustainable development”, she explained. 

According to the Minister, the restructured Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) will commence its call for entries by June 30, 2024, adding that the ministry has already streamlined the process to ensure more young entrepreneurs can access the funds they need to innovate and create jobs.

Ibrahim stated further that the National Youth Skills Program (NYSP) and the implementation of the NYSC reforms will also begin by July 30, 2024, explaining that the reforms will integrate skill development and entrepreneurship into the service year, making it more impactful and economically beneficial for the graduates.

“The Youth Development Bank will be launched by August 30th, 2024. This bank will provide tailored financial services to youth-led ventures, supporting innovative ideas and business growth.”, Jamila added. 

Regarding the Young Leaders’ Institute, the Minister declared that the institute will be launched by August 30th, 2024 to nurture the next generation of Nigerian leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to excel.

“The future of Nigeria is in your hands, and together, we will build a nation where the achievements of young people are the norm, not the exception. Let us move forward confidently, knowing that our plans are strategic, our implementation is diligent, and our commitment to empowering the youth is unwavering,” she added.

The Special guest at the event, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation of Nigeria, Ambassador Baba Gana Kingibe in his goodwill message, expressed sincere gratitude to the Minister for her forward-thinking initiatives and well-crafted policies aimed at empowering and preparing the youth to assume significant leadership roles in the future. He said the initiative indicates that the younger generation is enthusiastic and ready to take charge by embracing forward-thinking concepts and leveraging modern technology, even though their generation may not have had prior exposure to it.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Dunoma Ahmed Umar, said that the Federal Government is fully committed to ensuring the successful implementation of all youth development programs.

He emphasized that these programmes are poised to bring about a positive and tangible impact on the lives of the youth thereby catalyzing a transformative change in their well-being and future prospects.

June 12: Abiodun Commutes Death Sentences For 45 Inmates, Pardons 41 Others

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…Military Rule, Not an Option-Richard Akinnola

Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta

As part of activities marking the June 12 celebration, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has commuted the death sentence of 45 condemned prisoners to prison terms.

He also granted pardon to 41 other inmates serving in different Correctional Centres across the state.

Speaking at the 2024 Democracy Day, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Abiodun said the decision was in exercising his perogative of mercy as the governor of the state.

He said: “Government has a duty to uphold democratic values by consistently applying principles of mercy, justice, and the rule of law. In this vein, the Nigerian Constitution empowers me to exercise a prerogative of mercy to anyone convicted of an offense in Ogun State.

“Having received the guidance of the Ogun State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, I have signed the appropriate warrants ordering the release of 41 convicts currently imprisoned across different correctional facilities in Ogun State. I have also signed warrants converting the death sentences of 45 inmates to prison sentences.

“This gesture signals a break from past grievances and a move towards a more inclusive and compassionate society where merciful second chances are granted to deserving offenders.

“All convicts who have received this gesture have shown remorse for their crimes, acquired skills and certifications in prison, with several of them receiving university degrees from the National Open University of Nigeria. They have also demonstrated verified good conduct during their imprisonment.” he added

The governor said the celebration holds immense significance as it marks the triumph of democracy, the power of the people, and the pursuit of justice and freedom, observing that the history of Nigeria’s democracy is one of struggle and perseverance.

“June 12, 1993, stands as a watershed moment in this journey. On that particular day, Nigerians transcended differences of tribe, gender, and even the unique joint Muslim-Muslim ticket to speak unanimously through the ballot.

“They elected the late Chief Moshood Kasimawo Olawale Abiola and Babagana Kingibe of the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) as President and Vice-President, respectively.
Although the election was globally acclaimed as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, the military annulled its results, dashing the hopes raised by this democratic exercise.

“That election remains a pivotal moment in our country’s democratic history. It has become the benchmark against which the successes of subsequent elections are measured. For all its import, it reminds us of the power of unity, resilience, and the collective determination to uphold the principles of democracy.It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Nigerian people, who have shown unwavering commitment to democracy and the belief in a better future,” he noted

He added that the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola stands as one of the finest trailblazers from Ogun State just as his courage and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals remain an inspiration to the people adding that his campaign slogan, “Hope ’93,” was a national reawakening rooted in faith and the limitless ability of Nigerians to face their challenges and solve the problems of nation-building.

June 12: Be Passionate About Nigerians – Abiola’s Family Tells Governors

Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta

As Nigerians celebrate June 12 Democracy Day, the family of the acclaimed winner of the 1993 Presidential Election, Late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, has appealed to governors across the 36 states of the federation to be passionate about the lives of Nigerians and do more to improve their living conditions.

Speaking on behalf of the family, one of MKO Abiola’s sons, Abdulmuninin Abiola, who stated this while fielding questions from journalists on June 12 celebration at their family house in Oke-Agbo, Abeokuta, urged the governors to show more concern to Nigerians especially in this time of economic harship.

Abiola charged Nigerians not to give up the fight on June 12 struggle and join hands with President Bola Tinubu to make the country better while thanking the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun for his continuous support to the family especially the renovation of the family house.

He said “it is been over 25 years and if we continue to reminiscence on that day called June 12 you will see that over the years after June 12 Nigeria continue to enjoy democracy.”

“We hope that the Ogun State Government, the Lagos State Government, all Southwestern Government, all governors in Nigeria will continue to be passionate about the lives of Nigerians and see that you can do more for Nigerians with what you have”

“We also want to appreciate those who honour is due to from the previous government Buhari to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and every other states in Nigeria that continue to celebrate and see the value of June 12.”

“Late Chief MKO Abiola represent a lot to the country and you can see that as children we feel also so elated to see that our father is truly represented every year and that mean that Nigerians has not forgotten the struggle, Nigerians have not forgotten the fight and Nigerians continue to see that Chief MKO Abiola lives on in the memory of all Nigerians.

“I want to use this opportunity to appreciate Ogun State Government for extending its their generosity to the Abiola’ family, you will see that wit of things have been done to the Abiola’ family” he added

Democracy Day: ADC Youth Leader Seeks Inclusion of Youths in Governance

By MBACHU GODWIN, Abuja

The African Democratic Congress, ADC has charged the Nigerian youths to participate fully in the governance of it’s country, saying that the youths has a significant role to play in the development of democracy in Nigeria.

It also urge president Tinubu to accord the Nigerian youths it’s deserved place in his government as well as create the enabling environment for youths to participate in politics.

Speaking to Journalists in Abuja , National Youth Leader of African Democratic Congress, ADC, Chwukwuka Odumbu noted that the youths are needed to contribute their quota in national development.

He said “Today, as we celebrate Democracy day, we must acknowledge the progress we have made while recognizing that democracy is an ongoing process not a destination. It requires constant vigilance, active participation and commitment to the common good. This is where you, the youths comes in.

On recent formation of this government across the country after the 2023 General elections, we wish to emphasize People, Participation and Productivity. On this, our youths have strategic roles to play.

Democracy Day: Nwifuru Vows Sustenance Of Vision Of Founding Fathers

From Nwogha Ndubuisi, Abakaliki

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State says he is committed to the sustenance and consolidation of democracy and values in the state in line with the visions of the founding fathers.

The governor in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary, Dr Monday Uzor and made available to newsmen in Abakaliki said Ebonyi State under his watch values “rules of law, freedom of speech and virile opposition.

According to him, opposition and rule of law are beauties of Democracy and assured of its continued consolidation as the nation’s democratic governance advances.

“Today is a day set aside to celebrate our nation’s democracy and the associated freedoms we enjoy.

“I am proud to say that the principles of democracy, equality, justice, and the rule of law” are strictly respected in Ebonyi State under my watch”.

Governor Nwifuru continued
“On this Democracy Day, we honour the struggles of our past leaders who fought tirelessly to establish and sustain our democratic institutions.

“I recognize the contributions of our citizens who have worked to build a more just and equitable society. And I can assure you their sacrifices in enthroning democratic governance will not be forgotten”

“However, I acknowledge the challenges we face and what is certain is that as a government, we recommit ourselves to addressing them.
“Let me assure you that we are committed to working assiduously to build a democracy that is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people”.

We Need Politicians With Vision To Groom Intellectuals, Bring About Development -Jonathan

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FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY

Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday urged politicians and governors to emulate Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, saying he has redefined the political system in the state by engaging brains to drive the process.

Jonathan noted that Nigeria needs politicians and governors like Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, who has the vision to groom intellectuals, bring about development to the people in his effort to enthroning good governance.

He said that while other state governments were finding it difficult to pay minimum wage, Obaseki had gone ahead to pay N70,000 minimum wage , which distinguished him from his colleagues as a performer among the public servants.

Jonathan spoke at the commissioning of the Edo State Civil Service Secretariat Complex in Benin City, Edo State, renovated and completed by the Obaseki-led administration.

Jonathan, who expressed satisfaction with the developmental projects embarked by the governor, said Obaseki is doing well in the state as his government has positively improved the welfare of the people, particularly the state workforce.

He who expressed dismay that some governors in the country were busy encouraging youths into criminals activities with a view to using them win elections, urged them to rather encourage them to become brains that would be an asset to the country.

While commending Obaseki for nurturing political prodigies in the state who would complement his efforts and achievements after leaving office, he urged the people to support the governor to finish well.

Jonathan said Governor Obaseki has performed creditably well among his colleagues, having proposed N70,000 minimum wage.

The former president said
before this time, civil servants were taking what could not take them home, but Obaseki has changed that in Edo by paying what is reasonable and that can take them home.

“In fact, if you go to some states, governors are busy encouraging criminals because of politics. The people who will rig elections for them, snatch boxes , carry knives and cutlass to pursue people. But Governor Obaseki is encouraging the Brains of Edo State.

“The brains don’t come from one political party. The brains come from all political parties. Obaseki is not supporting these brains because he wants to win an election, but because he wants to build a state.

Stating that, For you to build a state, you have to build the people. I have to sincerely appreciate that vision. Let me join the civil servants in Edo State to thank you for improving their welfare. Of course, before this time, civil servants have been going home with salaries that can not take them home. Now, you are paying them salaries that take them home.” Jonathan said.

Fasehuns Protest President Tinubu’s Omission Of OPC Founder In List Of June 12 Heroes

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The Estate of Dr Frederick Fasehun has protested the omission by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the OPC Founder in the list of June 12 heroes contained in the presidential Democracy Day address.

In a statement on Wednesday in Lagos by the Late OPC Founder’s son, Mr. Remi Fasehun, the family described the omission of the foremost Democracy Activist in the President’s list as uncharitable, ungrateful and unpardonable.

“The President was a di beneficiary of our father’s activism and sacrifice for democracy,” the younger Fasehun said on behalf of the Estate. “Not only were they in the trenches together, Fasehun helped Tinubu to escape into exile. In fact, it is on record that, when General Sani Abacha’s squad surrounded Senator Abraham Adesanya residence where they held a meeting, Tinubu mounted the back of Fasehun and jumped the fence to flee into hiding and subsequently into exile.

“Several people, who escaped from the country into exile and joined NADECO-Abroad, including Pa Anthony Enahoro, were personally taken by boat and bush paths, through the NADECO Route, by Dr. Fasehun. He was at a point the link between Pa Enahoro-NADECO and NUPENG, the union that played a pivotal role in that struggle.

“He was thrown into prison several times by the General Sani Abacha junta, in Kirikiri, Ilorin and Kuje. At the infamous Inter Centre in Ikoyi Cemetery, he was held incommunicado for several months, an experience that inflicted immense damage on him physically and psychologically, to the extent of leaving his vision impaired for life.

“His family and businesses paid dearly for his struggle for democracy. Today, his wife and children still pay the price of their father’s sacrifice to birth the democracy Nigeria has today.”

They said Fasehun’s hospitality business, Century Hotel, as well as his Besthope Hospital in Lagos, were today a shadow of the flourishing enterprises they used to be before he threw himself into the struggle for June 12.

University of Aberdeen-trained Medical Doctor and Africa’s first Acupuncturist, Dr. Fasehun died December 1, 2018 in Lagos at the age of 83.

Furthermore, according to the statement, Fasehun specifically founded the socio-cultural group, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), in 1994, as a vehicle for wresting democracy from the sit-tight military junta.

“To ignore such an inimitable icon as Dr. Frederick Isiotan Fasehun from any so-called list of June 12 and Democratic Heroes smacks of crass injustice and inexplicable vendetta,” his Estate declared.

It recalled that in the struggle for June 12, hundreds of OPC members paid the supreme price, through extra-judicial killings by overzealous and ill-advised security agents.

“We only hope that in the name of fairness and justice, the President will correct this anomaly and place Dr. Fasehun in Nigeria’s democratic Hall of Fame as he very well deserves,” the Estate said.

“Truth should not be sacrificed on the altar of politics, however. Dr. Fasehun should be given his well-deserved historical recognition as a true Nigerian Hero of Democracy,” the statement declared.

While acknowledging that leading a huge nation like Nigeria could be a Herculean task, the Fasehuns urged Tinubu to put welfare packages in place to ameliorate the unprecedented poverty, inflation and insecurity bedeviling citizens.

Irish-Born Nigerian Defender Osinachi Nwubani Joins  Bundesliga Club VfL Bochum

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Joel Ajayi

In a move that has excited soccer fans across Nigeria and Ireland, former Flying Eagles center-back Osinachi Keleb Nwubani has signed with German Bundesliga club VfL Bochum. The 21-year-old defender penned a 2-year contract with the option for an additional 1-year extension on April 12th, 2024.

Nwubani, who was born in Ireland to Nigerian parents, has long been regarded as one of the brightest young prospects in African football. After impressing with the Flying Eagles, Nigeria’s U-20 national team, Nwubani has now earned the opportunity to showcase his talents on the big stage of the Bundesliga.

“I’m thrilled to be joining a historic club like VfL Bochum,” Nwubani said in his first interview as a Bochum player. “This is a tremendous opportunity for me, and I’m eager to give my absolute best and help the team achieve success.”

The 6ft 3 versatile defender, who can play both in the center of defense and as a full-back, will now have the chance to represent either Nigeria or the Republic of Ireland at the senior international level. Both national teams have been monitoring his progress closely, and his decision on which country to pledge his allegiance to will be highly anticipated.

As Nwubani embarks on this new chapter in his career, Nigerian fans will be eagerly hoping that he provides answers to Super Eagles’ defensive problems

Casinò Plinko 1Win

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Casinò Plinko 1Win

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Plinko Casino Recensioni Hot Block Radio

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Struttura del Gioco

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    Plinko: Un Insight Tra RTP Alto E Volatilità Bassa Nelle Recensioni

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    Comprendere il Funzionamento del Gioco

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    Pre-COP Conference reinforces Nigeria’s role as global climate leader – Tinubu’s aide

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    Joel Ajayi

    Joel Ajayi Comrade Yussuf Kelani, the recently appointed Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Climate Change Matters, attended the UNFCCC SB60 Pre-COP conference.

    As a former President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) and a dedicated environmental activist, Kelani’s presence at the conference marks a significant step in Nigeria’s climate action journey.

    The Pre-COP conference brought together representatives from various nations and stakeholders in climate action and environmental sustainability from around the globe.

    This pivotal event was held in preparation for the UNFCCC COP29, scheduled to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, in November 2024. The primary focus of the conference was to develop and refine the implementation framework for the global climate finance roadmap.

    The year 2024 is set to be a landmark year for climate finance, with countries agreeing on a new global climate finance goal known as the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). This goal is expected to be a crucial marker for a successful outcome at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

    The NCQG aims to mobilize significant financial resources to support the climate needs and priorities of developing countries, including mitigation, adaptation, addressing loss and damage, and facilitating just transitions.

    A key objective of the NCQG is to provide clarity on the public funding available for developing countries to implement their next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and adaptation plans, which are due by February 2025. At COP28, countries agreed to submit their NDCs 9-12 months ahead of COP30, highlighting the urgency and importance of these commitments.

    Our participation in the SB60 Pre-COP conference underscored Nigeria’s proactive stance in global climate negotiations. Our involvement facilitated Nigeria’s engagement with global leaders, policymakers, and climate experts, enhancing collaborative efforts and reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to climate action.

    President Tinubu’s SA on Climate Change Matters highlighted that Nigeria’s active participation in the conference has yielded several benefits, including increased access to climate finance.

    The discussions at the conference focused on securing substantial financial resources for developing nations through the NCQG. For Nigeria, this translates into enhanced funding for projects aimed at mitigation, adaptation, and resilience-building. These funds are crucial for Nigeria to achieve its climate targets and transition towards a low-carbon economy.

    Another significant aspect of Nigeria’s participation in the SB60 Pre-COP conference was the emphasis on technological innovation and capacity building. Engaging with international experts and stakeholders allowed Nigeria to gain insights into the latest advancements in clean energy technologies, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable urban development. These insights are vital for driving domestic climate initiatives and ensuring that Nigeria leverages cutting-edge technologies to address its unique challenges.

    The outcomes of the SB60 Pre-COP conference align closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agenda for climate change and Nigeria’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Climate action is intricately linked to multiple SDGs, including those related to poverty eradication, food security, clean water, and sustainable cities. By advancing its climate agenda, Nigeria is simultaneously driving progress towards achieving these interconnected goals.

    Investments in renewable energy, for instance, not only mitigate greenhouse gas emissions but also provide access to affordable and clean energy, fostering economic growth and reducing poverty. Similarly, sustainable agricultural practices enhance food security and promote responsible land use, contributing to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). These integrated approaches ensure that climate action efforts also deliver socio-economic benefits, thereby promoting holistic development.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to leveraging these gains to implement effective and inclusive climate policies that benefit all Nigerians. Nigeria’s active engagement in global climate forums underscores its dedication to being a leader in climate action and a champion of sustainable development.