Flowerbud News

Month: September 2023

  • 19th AKWAABA: Exhibitors laud organisation of fair

    19th AKWAABA: Exhibitors laud organisation of fair

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Exhibitors at the just concluded 19th AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market have commended the organisation of the fair.

    The exhibitors who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews said the three-day fair had been impactful on their business as well as educating.

    NAN reports that the expo had no fewer that 2,500 delegates from across the globe in attendance.

    Aniekan Essienette, Group Marketing Manager, Ibom Air,  said the expo was a good melting point for practitioners in the hospitality, tourism and travel industries.

    She said it was a season of networking which would translate to growth in the airline’s business.

    She advised that for subsequent editions, the organisers could engage more keynote speakers to educate the industry players for further improvement in their businesses

    “We have been able to meet with tour operators and travel agents, we have heard their concerns and we have been able to expose them to new initiatives from us as well.

    “This is possible through AKWAABA, we are happy and we look forward to the next edition,” she said.

    Also, Oyindamola Fashogbon-Ibironke, Marketing Manager, Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, expressed excitement, saying  that she was able to reach out to her targeted  audience.

    Fashogbon-Ibironke said even as a first time visitor at the fair, she was educated on some businesses in the value chain of tourism, travels and hospitality.

    She,  however,  commended the organiser, Mr Ikechi Uko,  for a well organised fair, as she advised that the next edition be held on a weekend.

    According to her, this can  probably attract more visitors to the expo.

    Foluke Femi-Sanda, Senior Brand Manager, Gino Nigeria, commended the organiser of the fair and described it as an interesting and rewarding one, which gave her an opportunity to  mingle with international delegates.

    Femi-Sanda said the expo had been impactful on the company as revellers became familiar with most of its new products.

    Emmanuel Mensah, Manager, Sales and Marketing, Royal Senchi Hotel and Resort, said “I have been attending AKWAABA since 2010, this year’s edition is the best so far, it is most impactful, I am not disappointed at all.”

    NAN reports that African cuisines ranging from coffee, condiments and snacks, received huge attention from tourists at the fair.

    AGino Nigeria, the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism and Ethiopia displayed cuisines across Africa. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

  • Miss Tourism tasks hoteliers on marketing Nigerian historical sites

    Miss Tourism tasks hoteliers on marketing Nigerian historical sites

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Miss Tourism Nigeria, Joy Ekekwe, on Tuesday urged hoteliers to participate in marketing Nigerian historical and tourism sites.

    The 26-year-old financial consultant made the call during the 19th AKWAABA Africa Travel and Tourism Market, held in Lagos from Sept. 3 to Sept. 5.
    Ekekwe said that marketing historical sites should not solely be left to tour operators, noting that every practitioner in the tourism and hospitality industries must be involved in it.
    She said this was the only way hoteliers could add value to other value chains within the tourism industry.
    She also explained that this would  place Nigeria on the global map of tourism as nations begin to realise the ennormous tourism potential that Nigeria is endowed with.
    “Nigerian hoteliers need to be patriotic to an extent that they intentionally market historical and tourism sites across the nation.
    “Lodging in an hotel should go beyond mere relaxation, visitors to hotels can be encouraged to visit some historical sites,  which would help boost patronage to those sites and improve the growth of inbound tourism,” she said.
    Ekekwe advised Nigerians to always take pride in everything that stands as their identity, in terms of language, dance, culture, music and all.
    She said Nigerians must also begin to appreciate the tourism potential the nation is endowed which include waterfalls, monoliths, crafts, caves, game reserves, among others.
    She noted that it was high time Nigerians begin to see these endowments as rare treasure and deliberately market them to woo both local and international tourists.
    Earlier, Bayo Adedeji, Chief Executive Officer of Wakanow Group, advised practitioners in the tourism industry to engage technology in their operations.
    Adedeji noted that technology is important to selling tourism across the globe.
    “Without maximising the potential in technology, operating tourism business could be chaotic, technology enhances the business of travels and tourism.
    “Government has supported us enough, we need to engage technology in all we do to perform optimally,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

  • Tinubu welcomes tribunal judgement

    Tinubu welcomes tribunal judgement

    BASKING in the euphoria of his victory at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal, PEPT, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, assured Nigerians of his renewed and energized focus on delivering his vision of a unified, peaceful and prosperous nation.

    President Tinubu in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale said he welcomed the judgment of the Tribunal with an intense sense of solemn responsibility and preparedness to serve all Nigerians, irrespective of all diverse political persuasions, faith, and tribal identities.

     

    The President said he recognized the diligence, undaunted thoroughness, and professionalism of the five-member bench, led by Justice Haruna Tsammani in interpreting the law.

     

    President Tinubu affirmed that his commitment to the rule of law, and the unhindered discharge of duties by the Tribunal, as witnessed in the panel’s exclusive respect for the merits of the petitions brought forward, further reflect the continuing maturation of Nigeria’s legal system, and the advancement of Africa’s largest democracy at a time when our democratic system of government is under test in other parts of the continent.

     

    According to the statement, “The President believes the Presidential Candidates and Political Parties that have lawfully exercised their rights by participating in the 2023 general elections and the judicial process, which followed, have affirmed Nigeria’s democratic credentials.

     

    “The President urges his valiant challengers to inspire their supporters in the trust that the spirit of patriotism will now and forever be elevated above partisan considerations, manifesting into support for our government to improve the livelihood of all Nigerians.

     

    “Once more, President Tinubu thanks Nigerians for the mandate given to him to serve our country while promising to meet and exceed their expectations, by the grace of God Almighty, and through very diligent hard work with the team that has been put in place for that sole purpose

  • NLC strike: Parts of South-East out of power supply

    NLC strike: Parts of South-East out of power supply

     

    By Flowerbudnews
    Enugu:  The Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) has explained that the reason for the loss of supply currently being experienced in parts of its network is due to the strike action embarked on by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).

     

    The company said that the NLC two-day warning strike had resulted to the shutdown of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) Stations feeding its Injection Substations within some parts of South-East.

     

    The Head of Corporate Communications, EEDC, Mr Emeka Ezeh, made this known in a statement in Enugu on Wednesday.

     

    Ezeh confirmed that the affected TCN Stations included: New Haven, Ohiya, and Egbu Transmission Stations.

     

    According to him, the development affected supply to customers of EEDC under Ogui, Abakpa, Umuahia, Owerri, New Owerri, Orlu, and Mbaise districts, feeding from the affected TCN Stations.

     

    “We shall continue to monitor events and provide timely updates as it affects our operations and service to our customers.

     

    “We are mindful of the inconveniences this situation has caused our esteemed customers and plead for their understanding,” he added.

  • 2023 Lagos Street Soccer: Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency to provide Security

    2023 Lagos Street Soccer: Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency to provide Security

     

    Lagos:. The Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSA) has assured of its readiness to provide safety and security support at the forthcoming Lagos Street Soccer championship.

    The Agency’s General Manager, Prince Oyekan Falade, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Lagos Street Soccer Committee led by Mr. Bolaji Yusuf.

    Yusuf in his opening remarks had said that one of the top priorities of the committee in the preparation for this year’s Lagos Street Soccer Championship was provision of adequate security.

    “This is a huge championship that encompasses all communities across Lagos state hence we cannot take the issue of security with levity.

    “The Committee desire, as set-up by LSFA chairman, Ogboni Fouad Oki, is to have a seamless and hitch-free tournament and that’s why we have come to seek the partnership of Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency
    to provide us with logistics support, ” Yusuf said.

    In his response, Falade expressed the pleasure of hosting the committee and commend their efforts in prioritising security in their planning schedule.

    Falade said: “Thank you for honouring me and the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency with this visit.

    “I also want to thank you for carrying out the progressive agenda of Lagos state.

    “Lagos Street Soccer is one of our strongest areas when it comes to Sport in Lagos state because it’s one project that promotes talented Nigerians irrespective of their tribe and creed.

    “This is an area that could push away the so called hoodlums from the streets and make them very active.

    “Growing up I knew quite a number of talented footballers who were not privileged to have the opportunity to exhibit their talents which inadvertently prevented them from picking a career in football but with the opportunity the Street Soccer is presenting I strongly believe this is another to discover more talents.

    “I know the Ogboni Fouad Alade Oki-led Lagos State Football Association is going to perform beyond expectations as he’s one man who knows his onions and does not settle for less”

    ‘There is no way you would talk about sporting events without talking about security.

    “We have partnership with different agencies on the areas of security, community and safety and I am glad the Lagos Street Soccer committee deem it worthy to seek for our assistance to provide security during the championship.

    “Our duty is to provide security and ensure safety in our communities and environments and you have our support anytime,” he said.

    The championship is expected to kick off on Oct. 2 in Surulere, Lagos.

  • COMMUNIQUE: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON REIMAGINING IGBO STUDIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY NIGERIA / CULTURAL CARNIVAL*

    *COMMUNIQUE: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON REIMAGINING IGBO STUDIES IN THE 21ST CENTURY NIGERIA / CULTURAL CARNIVAL*

    We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the International Conference on Reimagining Igbo Studies in the 21st Century Nigeria and Cultural Carnival from Tuesday 15 to Friday 18 August 2023.

    The conference brought together scholars, researchers, and experts from across the globe to engage in a dynamic exchange of ideas, insights, and perspectives on the future of Igbo studies in the evolving landscape of Nigeria.

    The conference provided an enriching platform for scholars, cultural enthusiasts, and community members to engage in insightful conversations and celebrate the rich heritage of the Igbo people.

    The event kicked off with a Charity Walk for Igbo on Wednesday, August 16th, symbolizing unity and support for the Igbo community. The opening ceremonies on August 17th featured distinguished speakers, including the Vice Chancellor’s representative, Prof Ijeoma Okorji, and Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Nwachukwu Anakwenze.

    The Vice chancellor, Prof Charles Arizechukwu Igwe, assured that the institution would continue to work for the promotion of Igbo language and promised that his administration will always give the Centre the necessary support to carry out its functions in preserving the Igbo language and cultural heritage.

    The Chairman, CISA Board of President, Dr Nwachukwu Anakwenze, who chaired the occasion, praised the University and CIS for their efforts in ensuring that Igbo studies and cultural practices were sustained.

    He noted that over 40 million black are of Igbo origin, adding that an appreciable number of them are willing to learn the Igbo language as well as reconnect with their living relatives in Nigeria and Diaspora.

    The Director of the Center for Igbo Studies (CIS) and convener of the event, Prof Chris Agbedo, delivered a welcome address, setting the stage for the enlightening discussions ahead.

    Specifically, Prof Uchenna Agbedo spoke pointedly to the frightful prospects of language endangerment tugging the Igbo language in the face. To this effect, the Director called on the authorities of the University of Nigeria, as well as the Southeast Governors and members of the regional leadership, socio-cultural organisations such as Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Council of Igbo States in Americas (CISA), Igbo World Assembly (IWA), and NGOs to take unified policy measures and practical steps at addressing the challenges of language endangerment.

    He listed the following recommendations aimed at reinventing the ethno-linguistic vitality of the Igbo language, fostering a deeper connection to Igbo identity and ensuring the continuity of its rich heritage:

    (i) *Inclusion of Igbo in General Studies Programme* : This requires the UNN authorities to consider introducing the study of Igbo language and culture as a General Studies (GST) course.

    This initiative aims to expose students from various disciplines to the beauty and significance of the Igbo language and traditions.

    (ii) *Unified Policy by Southeast Governors* : This calls upon the governors of the Southeast region to collaborate in creating a unified policy that mandates a credit pass in Igbo language as a core prerequisite for entrance into any tertiary institution within the region.

    This policy would not only elevate the status of Igbo language but also reinforce its importance in the region’s educational landscape.

    (iii) *Scholarship Scheme and employment Incentives:* To incentivize students to take up Igbo as a course, Prof Agbedo proposes the establishment of a scholarship scheme for students who choose to study Igbo at any tertiary institution. Additionally, a promise of automatic employment upon graduation should be extended to students who excel in their Igbo studies.

    This measure would not only motivate students to engage with the language but also create a skilled workforce dedicated to preserving and promoting Igbo heritage.

    These recommendations are not only crucial steps toward preserving the Igbo language and cultural heritage but also serve as a testament to the commitment of the academic community, regional authorities, and society at large to safeguarding the essence of Igbo identity.

    The keynote presentation, entitled “Onye aghana nwanne ya in Igbo national thought: Where are we now,” was delivered by Prof Gabriella I. Nwaozuzu.

    She interrogated the relevance of the Igbo’s ‘be your brother’s keeper’ philosophy in contemporary times, unlike the typical pre-civil war Igbo society when the philosophy was the bedrock on which Igbo progress, cohesion, love, and peace rested. Others who spoke glowingly in support of the innovative step taken by the CIS to reposition Igbo studies included the President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, ably represented by the Publicity Secretary, Dr. Alex Ogbonnia, the DVC (Administration) Abia State University Uturu, Prof Ogbonna Onuoha, Barr. Sam Otoboeze, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, MD and Editor-in-Chief, Sun Newspapers, Peter Akah, professor of pharmacology & Toxicology, to mention but a few.

    Lead paper presenters and panel discussions further delved into various aspects of Igbo studies, fostering an atmosphere of intellectual exchange and collaboration. Conferees and participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions on a wide range of topics, including language preservation, cultural heritage, history, literature, and the role of technology in advancing Igbo studies.

    The conference highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in enriching our understanding of Igbo culture, identity, and contributions to Nigerian and global society.

    It equally emphasized the significance of engaging with younger generations and leveraging modern tools to ensure the continued growth and relevance of Igbo studies. Participants explored innovative approaches to teaching, research, and dissemination of knowledge that will foster a deeper appreciation for Igbo heritage among both local and international audiences.

    The conference was not only an academic endeavour but also a celebration of Igbo culture.

    The event showcased cultural displays, captivating audiences with traditional performances, showcasing the essence of Igbo identity. Awards of honour were presented to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the preservation and promotion of Igbo heritage.

    A highlight of the conference was the unveiling of the master plan for the Igbo Cultural Village Complex project, a significant step toward creating a dedicated space for the preservation and exhibition of Igbo culture.

    On August 18th, the festivities continued with the New Yam Festival, Mmanwu Festival, and various cultural showcases that included oratorical performances, wrestling, dancing, fluting competitions, and a vibrant fashion parade.

    The day culminated in the presentation of awards to deserving individuals who have excelled in their commitment to Igbo culture.

    We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and collaborators who contributed to the resounding success of this event. All stakeholders in the Igbo studies project, including educational institutions, government bodies, and community leaders, are hereby called upon to rally behind the Centre for Igbo Studies, the brilliant recommendations of the conference convener, and CIS Director, Prof Chris Uchenna Agbedo and work collectively to ensure the enduring legacy of the Igbo language and culture. As we move forward, we are committed to building on the momentum generated during this conference.

    We will work to establish collaborative networks, support ongoing research initiatives, and promote the integration of Igbo studies into educational curricula at all levels.

    By harnessing the collective expertise and passion shared at this conference, we aim to reinvigorate the study of Igbo culture and history for generations to come. Together, we have taken significant strides toward reimagining Igbo studies in the 21st century Nigeria and beyond.

    Together, we have reimagined the future of Igbo studies and celebrated the essence of Igbo culture in a spirit of unity and pride. (Flowerbudnews)

    SIGNED:

    *DR. IFEOMA NWEZE*

    *DR. AHAMEFULA NDUBUISI*

    *DR. DANIEL ABONYI*

    _(For and on behalf of the Conference Communique Committee)_

  • Tinubu’s US drug-dealing forfeiture not criminal indictment – Tribunal

    Tinubu’s US drug-dealing forfeiture not criminal indictment – Tribunal

    The Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal has ruled that President Bola Tinubu cannot be disqualified on the basis of his forfeiture of drug money in the United States.

     

    The verdict was declared by Justice Haruna Tsammani-led five-member panel of the Presidential Petition Election Tribunal on the petition on Wednesday.

    According to the PEPT, Tinubu was previously cleared by the Nigeria Police Force of any criminal issues in the US, which came through an inquiry the police had made to US law enforcement.

    The court disclosed that Tinubu has been able to enter and exit the US, and that suggests he has no criminal case.

     

    In his ruling, Tsammani said the judgement of the US District in Northern Illinois which ordered the forfeiture of Tinubu’s $460,000 in a drugs-related case was in civil proceedings in which Tinubu was not a party.

     

    On the issue of non-qualification due to an alleged criminal indictment, the petitioners had contended that Tinubu had forfeited $460,000 in the US as an indictment in drug trafficking.

     

    According to the tribunal, the evidence (Exhibit P5) tendered by the petitioners shows that it was a civil forfeiture proceedings.

     

    Justice Tsammani held that the petitioners failed to provide credible evidence to show that Tinubu was arraigned, took a plea or was sentenced or fined in any criminal suit in the US.

     

    “The order of forfeiture in Exhibit P5 on which the petitioners have relied does not qualify as a sentence of fine for an offence involving dishonesty or fraud within the confabulation of Section 137(d) of the 1999 constitution,” Tsammani said.

     

    According to the tribunal, civil forfeiture is not a conviction or a criminal charge

  • Presidential tribunal dismisses Obi’s allegation 2023 election rigged to favour Tinubu

    Presidential tribunal dismisses Obi’s allegation 2023 election rigged to favour Tinubu

    The Presidential Election Petition Court, PEPC, sitting in Abuja, has dismissed the allegation by the Labour Party, LP, and its candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, that the 2023 presidential election was rigged in favour of President Bola Tinubu

    The court, in its preliminary ruling that was delivered by Justice Abba Mohammed, held that Obi and the the LP, did not by way of credible evidence, establish their allegation that the election that held on February 25, was characterized by manifest corrupt practices.

     

     

     

    It held that though the Petitioners alleged that the election was marred by irregularities, they, however, failed to give specific details of where the alleged infractions took place.

     

     

     

    The court noted that whereas Obi and the LP, insisted that the election was rigged in 18, 088 polling units across the federation, they were unable to state the locations of the said polling units.

     

     

     

    It further held that Obi’s allegation that fictitious results were recorded to President Tinubu and the APC, by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, was not proved.

    More so, it held that the Petitioners were unable to state the figures they claimed were reduced from election results they garnered in different states of the federation, especially in Ondo, Oyo, Rivers, Yobe, Borno, Tabara, Osun and Lagos state.

     

     

     

    It held that the Petitioners equally failed to state the polling units where over-voting occured or the exact figures of unlawful votes that were credited to Tinubu by the INEC .

    stressed that though Obi and LP said they would rely on spreadsheets as well as forensic report and expert analysis of their expert witnesses, they failed to attach the documents to the petition or serve same on the Respondents as required by the law.

     

     

     

    The court held that though the petition contained serious allegations that bordered on violence, non-voting, suppression of votes, fictitious entry of election results and corrupt practices, the Petitioners, however, failed to give particulars of specific polling units where the incidences took place.

     

     

     

    It held that several portions of the petition that contained the allegations, were “vague, imprecise, nebulous and bereft of particular materials.”

    Therefore, the court, struck out paragraphs 9, 60, 61, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 78, 83 and 89 of the petition.

     

     

     

    Nevertheless, the court dismissed the contention of the Respondents that Obi was not validly nominated by the LP to contest the presidential election.

    It noted that the Respondents had argued that Obi left the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on May 24, 2022 and joined the LP on May 27, 2022.

     

     

     

    The Respondents argued that as at May 30, 2022, Obi, was not a valid member of the LP and could not have duly participated in its presidential primary election.

     

     

     

    They insisted that his name could not have been contained in the membership register of the LP, which ought to be submitted to INEC, 30 days before the primary election held.

     

    However, the court, in its ruling, held that the issue of membership is an internal affair of a political party, which is not justiceable.

     

     

     

    It held that only the LP has the prerogative of determining who is its member, adding that the Respondents were bereft of the legal to query Obi’s membership of the LP.

    Likewise, the court, held that contrary to contention by Tinubu and the APC, the Petitioners, were not under any obligation to join Alhaji Atiku Abubakar who came second in the election or his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the case.

     

     

     

    It held that both Atiku and PDP are not statutory Respondents or necessary parties to the petition.

     

     

     

    Having decided the preliminary issues, Chairman of the five-member panel, Justice Haruna Tsammani, is currently reading the judgement of the court on the substantive matter.

  • NERC okays 40% price increase for meters

    NERC okays 40% price increase for meters

    The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission on Tuesday approved a 40 per cent upward review of unit costs for end-use meters under the Meter Asset Provider and National Mass Metering Regulations.

    NERC disclosed this in a Notice order signed by its Chairman, Sanusi Garba and Commissioner Legal, Licensing and Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye.

     

    Accordingly, a single-phase meter price has been increased to N81,975.16 from N58,661.69.

    Also, the Three-Phase Meter price was increased to N143,836.10 from N109,684.34.

     

    The implication is that electricity consumers will have to pay an additional N23,313.64 for a Single-phase meter, which is 40 per increment and N34,151.76 to get a Three-phase meter, representing a 31 per cent increase

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