Category: General News

 

By Flowerbudnews

Abuja:  The House of Representatives Committee on Constitution Review on Thursday proposed the creation of 31 new states in the country.

If the proposal scales through, the Nigerian state will be made up of 67 sub-national governments.

The proposal for new states was contained in a letter read during Thursday’s plenary session by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session in the absence of the Speaker, Mr Tajudeen Abbas.

The committee chaired by Kalu proposed six new states for North Central, four in the North East, five in the North West, five in South East, four in South-South and seven in South West.

The letter read in part, “The committee proposes the creation of 31 new states. As amended, this section outlines specific requirements that must be fulfilled to initiate the process of state creation, which include the following:

1. New state and boundaries

“An act of the National Assembly for the purpose of creating a new state shall only be passed if it requires support by at least the third majority of members.

2. The House of Representatives, the House of Assembly in respect of the area, and the Local Government Council in respect of the area are received by the National Assembly.

“Local government advocates for the creation of additional local government areas are only reminded that Section 8 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, applies to this process.

“Specifically, in accordance with Section 8 (3) of the Constitution, the outcome of the votes of the State Houses of Assembly in the referendum must be forwarded to the National Assembly for fulfilment of state demands.

“Proposals shall be resubmitted in strict adherence to the stipulations. Submit three hard copies of the full proposal of the memoranda to the Secretariat of the Committee at Room H331, House of Representatives, White House, National Assembly Complex, and Abuja.

“Sub-copies must also be sent electronically to the Committee’s email address at info.hccr.gov.nj. For further information or contact, please contact the Committee Clerk at 08069-232381.

“The committee remains committed to supporting the implementing efforts that align with the Constitutional provisions and would only consider proposals that comply with the stipulated guidelines. This is coming from the Clerk of the Committee on Constitutional Review.”

The proposed new states are Okun, Okura and Confluence states from Kogi; Benue Ala and Apa states from Benue; FCT state; Amana state from Adamawa; Katagum from Bauchi states and Savannah states from Borno and Muri State from Taraba.

Others are New Kaduna and Gujarat from Kaduna State; Tiga and Ari from Kano, and Kainji from Kebbi State; Etiti and Orashi as the 6th state in the South East Adada from Enugu, Orlu and Aba from the South East.

Also included are Ogoja from Cross River State, Warri from Delta, Ori and Obolo from Rivers; Torumbe from Ondo; Ibadan from Oyo, Lagoon from Lagos, Ogun, Ijebu from Ogun state as well as Oke Ogun from Oyo/Ogun and Ijesha from Osun State.

 

 

By Biola Lawal

Abuja: (Flowerbudnews):  Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has urged Alumni of Obafemi Awolowo University to give back to the institution that made them by contributing to the development of the institution.

Dabiri-Erewa, who graduated from the then University of ife in 1983, gave the advice in Abuja when she received the newly elected executive members of Great Ife Alumni Association Abuja Chapter, a statement by Abdur-Rahman Balogun, NIDCOM Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols disclosed.

She expressed her delight at the visit and commended the alumni for keeping the flag flying and for their efforts to give back to the institution.

She praised the Great Ife Alumni Association for its commitment to the development of the institution and its students, and assured the delegation of her support for various projects.

“I am proud to support this initiative, and I will work with you to make it possible to give back to our great institution. This is a legacy we will all be proud of,” she said.

Earlier, Mr. Shola Bickersteth, Chairman, Great Ife Alumni, Abuja Chapter informed Hon. Dabiri-Erewa that the Chapter is hosting the 2025 edition of the global reunion of all alumni of the institution both at home and in the Diaspora.

The global reunion, according to him, aims to reunite alumni worldwide and encourage them to give back to their alma mater.

“This reunion promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together Great Ife alumni from all walks of life to celebrate their shared heritage and contribute to the development of their beloved institution” he stated.

The delegation also called on the NiDCOM Boss to adopt a project on campus that would give back to the institution, specifically addressing the accommodation deficit of 8,000 bed spaces on campus.

The project, which is open to sponsorship by members, aims to provide a befitting accommodation facility for students, thereby enhancing their learning experience and overall well-being.

The Great Ife Alumni Association Abuja Branch, has taken it upon itself to provide the necessary support to make this project a reality.

The branch believes that the project will not only enhance the learning experience of students but also contribute to the overall development of the institution.

 

By Taiye Olayemi

The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) says it will hold its 2024 national delegates convention in Lagos, from Feb. 18 to Feb. 22.

Its National President, Mr Israel Eboh, who disclosed this during a press conference in Lagos, on Wednesday, said that the essence of the convention was to explore theatre as a force for national transformation.

Eboh said that the convention would feature insightful workshops to educate practitioners on cutting-edge skills in scriptwriting, directing, acting, stage design, and digital theatre innovations.

According to him, the convention will also provide a robust platform to explore, debate, and expand the role of the performing arts in national development.

“In the course of the convention, delegates will be immersed in an exciting lineup of events designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. This is the first time we will be having activities happening in four different venues concurrently.

“The convention is called “Eko 2024” because it is also an opportunity for our members to explore tour facilities in Lagos, we want to showcase Lagos as the heartbeat of entertainment.

“The theme for the convention is “Theatre Politics and National Development. ”

“This theme could not be more relevant at this time in our nation’s history, as we navigate the complexities of governance and democracy.

“It is imperative to recognise the critical role of theatre and the arts in shaping national consciousness, driving civic engagement, and influencing policy.

“Theatre is more than entertainment-it is a mirror of the society, a voice for the voiceless, and a catalyst for transformation,” he said.

Eboh introduced veterans like Joke Silva, Chief Chika Okpala, Hajiya Lantana Ahmed, Dr Sam Dede, Mrs Sarah Boulos, and Steve Onu as Eko 2024 convention ambassadors.

He appreciated Leadway Assurance, Pocari Sweat, National Council for Arts and Culture, National Film and Video Censors Board, National Theatre, and Agewell company for partnering with NANTAP to host the convention.

“I extend an open invitation to all theatre practitioners, art enthusiasts, corporate bodies, and government agencies to support and actively participate in this landmark event,” she said.

Also, Mr Greg Odutayo, Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the convention, promised to make the convention an epoch-making one.

“It’s going to be a five-day season of learning, interaction, and exhibition of talents.

“We are going to have activities spread across five venues, the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Glover Memorial hall, Freedom Park, and the National Theatre.

“We’ll provide logistics for attendees across the state,” he said.

Earlier, Mrs Tola Akerele, General Manager of the National Arts Theatre, who was represented by Chief Henry Ndubuisi, Deputy Director, Marketing at National Theatre assured NANTAP of continued partnership.

Akerele also assured Nigerians that the National Theatre would be open for use soon as he promised to continue to work with NANTAP to generate lofty ideas that would reposition the creative industry.

“We recognise the enormous role NANTAP play in correcting societal ills, and that is the reason we will continue to partner with you to achieve our common goals,” she said.

Also speaking, Sarah Boulos, National President of the Society of the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN), urged NANTAP to ensure a communique is put together after the convention.

Boulos also advised NANTAP to encourage their women to embrace politics as Theatre could be seen as a strong force to correct how politics and governance should be run.

Mr Niyi Abiola, Brand Manager, Leadway Assurance, acknowledged the long-standing relationship the company had built with NANTAP over the years.

“We see the work you do in shaping the society positively, we are in peculiar times, and the onus is on this association to correct society ills. We are glad to partner with you, and we wish you a beautiful conference ahead. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

 

By Flowerbudnews

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Dr. Chioma Awuzie as the substantive Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State.

Awuzie’s appointment, which takes effect immediately for a five-year term, follows the recommendation of the Polytechnic’s Governing Council, chaired by Sen. Dr. Barnabas Gemade, after a transparent and competitive selection process where she emerged as the leading candidate.

Prior to her appointment, Awuzie, who holds a Doctorate Degree in Physical and Materials Chemistry, was a distinguished Chief Lecturer in the Department of Science Laboratory Technology (Chemistry Option) and also Director in-charge of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Projects in the Polytechnic.

Under her stewardship, Federal Polytechnic, Oko, witnessed unprecedented advancements in infrastructure and institutional transformation.

Her leadership facilitated monumental developments across the Polytechnic’s campuses in Oko, Atani and Ufuma, creating vibrant environments for academic excellence and innovation.

Awuzie is a globally recognized scholar with an extensive portfolio of research and publications. Her Fellowships with the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered Chemists of Nigeria, and the Institute of Corporate Administration, underline her expertise in science and sustainability. As part of an expert team organized by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), she notably played a pivotal role in drafting the Renewable Energy Technology curriculum for Nigerian Polytechnics, currently in use.

Awuzie has held several leadership positions, including: Head, Department of Renewable Energy Research and Development, Director of Petroleum, Coal, and Renewable Energy Research Unit and Director, International Higher Education Academic Organizations. She also previously served as Coordinator, Technical, Vocational Education, and Training (TVET)

Her training on Management of Higher Education Institute in Galilee International Management Institute (GIMI) Israel, has also positioned her well for the onerous task ahead.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Awuzie’s humanitarian spirit shines through the Dr. Chioma Awuzie Foundation, which focuses on empowering the youth, women and underserved communities through education, skills training, and economic empowerment initiatives.

Awuzie’s appointment marks the beginning of a transformative era for Federal Polytechnic, Oko. Her visionary leadership, academic excellence and ethical governance, promise to position the Polytechnic to a model of innovation and distinction in Nigeria’s educational sector.

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About Flowerbudnews

Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers. We are drawn from both public and private sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism.

Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

 

By Majeed Ishola
The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has pinpointed that the initiative of the Federal Civil Service (FCSC) to commence a fresh recruitment drive through its official portal is a significant milestone in promoting transparency, equity, and meritocracy in their recruitment drive.

TSF gave FCSC the commendation in a statement issued by its Chairman, Hon Ahmed Sajoh and Secretary, Afolabi Josiah.

The statement observed that historically, the Nigerian civil service has faced challenges regarding recruitment practices. Notably, in 2020, the federal government imposed an embargo on employment due to economic constraints, which was repeated in 2021.

This suspension which was necessitated by prevailing economic conditions then inadvertently created gaps in the staffing requirements needed for efficient service delivery, and it also limited opportunities for many qualified Nigerians to serve their nation through the civil service.

The recent decision to lift this embargo and open the recruitment portal to all eligible Nigerians signifies a renewed commitment to adequately staff public service and the commitment of Mr President to provide jobs for our teeming young graduates.

By facilitating an open and competitive application process, the government ensures that employment opportunities within the civil service are accessible to all, thereby fostering a culture of merit-based appointments.

TSF commends this progressive step and encourages all qualified Nigerians to seize this opportunity to contribute to national development. We believe that such transparent recruitment processes will not only enhance the efficiency of our civil service but also restore public confidence in our institutions.

We urge the FCSC to maintain the highest standards of fairness and transparency throughout this recruitment exercise. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the principles of equity and meritocracy are upheld, thereby paving the way for a more inclusive and effective public service.

 

A traditional ruler in Osun State, the Olu of Owode-Ede, His Royal Highness. Oba Oyedepo Abdulazeez Nureni, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke’s led administration for building sustainable infrastructures in Owode-Ede town as well as entire Osun State.