Category: General News

 

….Pledges to support FG’s developmental initiatives

 

A Diaspora group, under the auspices of Plateau State Association, USA, Inc., (PSA-USA), has commended President Bola Tinubu for the renaming of University of Abuja (UniAbuja) after former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd.).

The PSA-USA, in a statement signed by its President, Dr. Barth Shepkong, and General-Secretary, Barrister Nanjul Wuyep, on Thursday, and made available to newsmen in Abuja, thanked President Tinubu for the gesture.

According to the group, this recognition is not only a tribute to an exceptional statesman but also a celebration of the values of unity, leadership and integrity that General Gowon embodies.

“On behalf of the Plateau State Association, USA, and the entire Plateau State community in the diaspora, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to you for the profound gesture of renaming the University of Abuja in honour of Retired General Yakubu Gowon.”

They said Gowon’s enduring legacy as a champion of Nigeria’s unity and progress continues to inspire generations.

“From his pivotal role in maintaining national cohesion during challenging times to his unwavering dedication to public service and nation-building, General Gowon stands as a beacon of hope and a role model for us all.

“Naming such a prestigious institution after him is a fitting acknowledgment of his contributions and will undoubtedly inspire future generations to emulate his exemplary leadership.

“The decision to honour General Gowon in this significant way is a reflection of the high regard in which he is held – not only by his peers but also by the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and abroad.

“His legacy as a leader, visionary, and statesman has shaped the course of our nation, and this renaming is a fitting tribute to his contributions to both our country and the world.

“We are particularly delighted to see a son of Plateau State recognised in such a profound and lasting manner,” they said

(President of Plateau State Association, USA, Inc., (PSA-USA), Dr. Barth Shepkong)

PSA-USA, therefore, pledged to support the Federal Government in its efforts at bringing peace and development to the people.

“As members of the Plateau diaspora, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that foster national development, peace, and unity.

“We are inspired by your leadership and vision for Nigeria and look forward to continued collaboration in areas that uplift the Nigerian people and strengthen our nation.

We thank you for this laudable decision, which has brought immense pride and joy to our community.

“Please accept our warm regards and best wishes for your continued success,” they said.

It would be recalled that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had resolved to rename the University of Abuja after Gowon.
The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this on Monday after the FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu.

Mr Idris said the university will be renamed ‘”Yakubu Gowon University to honour the elder statesman.”

He, however, clarified that the name change will still need to be approved by the National Assembly.

 

 

By Flowerbudnews

The Enugu State Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Chief Chris-Roberts Ozongwu, has given a detailed breakdown of the N971.84 billion 2025 Budget of Enugu State christened budget of “Exponential Growth and Inclusive Prosperity”.

 

Ozongwu gave the breakdown in Enugu on Thursday during a media briefing on the breakdown of the 2025 Budget.

 

He said that the 2025 Budget estimate was over N450 billion higher than 2024 budget of N521.5 billion representing 86.4 per cent increase.

 

The commissioner said that the current 2024 budget had achieved 92.6 per cent success, adding that “this is remarkable and unprecedented achievement compared to any budget in the country”.

 

He said the budget’s vision was to grow Enugu State Gross Domestic Product from $4.4 billion to $30 billion, adding that N133.1 billion would go into recurrent expenditures, while N837.9 billion would be spent on capital expenditures.

 

Speaking on key sectorial projects earmarked to be executed in 2025, Ozongwu said that in education which got the largest chunk of N320.6 billion; the government would construct 200 Integrated Model Smart School (Primary 1 – JSS 3) at N100 billion.

 

“The government earmarked N146 billion for equipping Smart Schools across the 260 political wards in the state. The government will spend N10.7 billion for upgrading of three of state public secondary schools to Smart High Secondary Schools (structures).

 

“The government also earmarked construct Smart Senior Secondary Schools at N10 billion.

 

“The government would upgrade campuses of Awgu and Oji River Nursing Schools with new facilities with N1 billion and N500 million for first-phase construction of 3-storey buildings for standard library, auditorium and classrooms at Awgu campus among others,” he said.

 

Ozongwu noted that for health, the government had earmarked N20 billion for construction of Enugu International Hospital, Rangers Avenue; and N500 million for establishment of Enugu Blood Service Commission (Construction of building, furnishing and equipping).

 

“The government has earmarked N10 billion for construction of 230 Type-2 Primary Health Care facilities across the state and another N4 billion for equipping of the 229 Type-2 Primary Health Care facilities across the state.

 

“The government earmarked N350 million for construction of two storey building at Iji-Nike (ESUT Teaching Hospital Parklane) and earmarked N1.7 billion for purchase of hospital equipment for General Surgery/other instruments across cottage and general hospitals in the state.

 

“The government intends to upgrade/renovate 10 cottage hospitals and 12 general hospitals at N1.5 billion among others,” he said.

 

The commissioner noted that for the transport sector, the government earmarked N1 billion for vehicle tracking system through a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) agreement; and earmarked N2 billion for procurement of 2000 taxis for youths empowerment scheme.

 

Ozongwu noted that the government would spend N2 billion for equity contribution for additional 100 buses for the intra-city mass transit concession and earmarked N5 billion for procurement of 200 tipper trucks for mining.

 

He said, “The government to spend N1.2 billion for construction of ultra modern logistics hub; N1.6 billion for construction of one transport interchange via PPP and N1 billion for provision of traffic signage/road marking

.

“The government has earmarked N10 billion for construction of 10 Electric Charging points; N2 billion for equity contribution for phase one of 135.4kilometres rail and N19 billion for provision of four aircrafts for Enugu Air among others.”

 

The commissioner also gave breakdown on other sectors, which included works and infrastructure, tourism, water, agriculture, electricity, energy and mineral resources, housing, youth and sports and administrative sectors among others.

 

Ny Flowerbudnews

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has deployed no fewer than 768 personnel for one-month long yuletide special operation within Enugu State.

The Sector Commander of FRSC Enugu State Command, Mr Franklin Agbakoba, told newsmen in Enugu on Thursday that that the personnel are made up of 483 Regular Marshals and Officers.

 

Agbakoba noted that the regular marshals and officers are currently being supported by 285 Special Marshals manning critical road corridors to ensure traffic flow as well as providing rescue, emergency and health services.

 

The sector commander said that the corps had already deployed nine patrol vehicles, one power-bike, one ambulance, one heavy duty tow truck and one light duty tow truck.

“The Command has made deployment starting from the commencement of the Special Yuletide Patrol code-named “Operation Zero Tolerance to Road Crash” on Dec. 15 and gave out specific instructions to our personnel.

 

“The special yuletide patrol, which would last till Jan. 15, 2025, would be carried out in three shifts daily to put our personnel on effective alertness to ensure safety of all Nigerians using any critical road corridors in the state.

 

“The Command’s personnel surveillance and education would focus on eight critical offences, which normally lead to crashes; these included: check for worn out tyres, over loading and mixed loading of humans and animals together.

 

“We also have to stop speedy, driving license violation, dangerous driving, use of phones while driving and seatbelt use violation,” he said.

 

The sector commander said that the command had devised a strategic to end the frequent crashes along the Ugwu Onyeama axis of Enugu -9th Mile Road Corridor through activation of a “Help Area” along the axis.

He said that the Help Area have a permanent ambulance team for medical response as well as a heavy duty tow truck team for vehicle recovery and clearing any obstructions on the road.

 

Agbakoba said, “We have stationed a patrol team to monitor the Enugu-9th mile axis of the Enugu-Awka-Onitsha Road 24/7; and ensure safety and traffic compliance as well as enforcement of road traffic infractions.

 

“We have stationed enough marshals at the entrance of the Enugu-9th Mile axis of the road at both ends of the road, to and fro.

 

“Our marshals are permanently there to ensure lane discipline; and no vehicle drive against the traffic and help us forestall and finally stop the head-on collision that happens in that axis virtually every week.”

 

The sector commander said that the corps had been given special attention to the Eke Obinagu axis of Enugu-Abakaliki Road due to increase traffic in that axis and the ongoing fly-over bridge construction in that axis.

“We are also giving special attention to 4-Corner axis of Enugu-Aba-Port-Harcourt Road and some parts of special interexchange and link roads within Enugu metropolis as well.

 

“This operational deployment/planning reflects the FRSC’s commitment to road safety during high traffic period this yuletide.

 

“I will advise motors and travelers to plan their journey early and leave early for their travel. They should avoid night travel as much as possible,” he added.

 

By Danladi Ahmed

The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has welcomed the unveiling of an ultra-modern mineral analysis laboratory in Sabon-Wuse, Niger State as a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards excellence in the mining sector.

It is said in a statement signed by its Chairman Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Josiah Afolabi that it was a groundbreaking development by the federal government which aligns perfectly with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“For us, the inauguration of this laboratory, the first of its kind in Nigeria, represents a crucial step toward halting the testing of minerals abroad.

“Under the leadership of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, the establishment of this world-class facility, reflects the Ministry’s dedication to delivering on its seven-point agenda.

“By focusing on local value addition, this initiative ensures Nigeria not only retains substantial revenue previously spent on international testing, but also positions itself as a global hub for mineral analysis,” TSF added.

It added that the internationally certified lab, equipped with cutting-edge WDXRF machines, is a joint effort between the Federal Government and African Natural Resources and Mines Limited (ANRML)

The group said: “We know that the facility offers a comprehensive range of geochemical services for exploration and mining industries, enhancing Nigeria’s capacity to compete globally.

“Commendably, ANRML’s commitment to revolutionizing the sector through investment and innovation has earned it recognition as a valuable partner in this endeavour.

“We hail, Dr. Alake’s visionary leadership, which has consistently demonstrated tangible results in advancing Nigeria’s mining sector. From policy reforms to infrastructure development, the Minister’s initiatives have catalyzed growth and reinforced the country’s potential as a mining powerhouse.

“This laboratory not only creates new job opportunities for Nigeria’s teeming youth but also underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering an enabling environment for private-sector participation and investment.

“We therefore urge stakeholders in the mining industry to leverage this development and partner with the federal government to unlock the sector’s full potential.”

TSF expressed confidence that the state-of-the-art laboratory will catalyze sustainable growth and boost investor confidence while significantly reducing operational bottlenecks for mining companies.

 

 

By Flowerbudnews

The Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State, Chief Obiora Obeagu, has presented a budget estimate proposal of N5.5bn for the 2025 Fiscal Year to the area’s Legislative Council.

 

Presenting the budget at the Council headquarters, Ikem; Obeagu said the budget was christened: “Budget of Economic Growth and Transformation.”

He noted that the 2025 budget estimate was an increase from the N4.15 billion 2024 budget and consistent with Gov. Peter Mbah’s effort to ramp up the state’s economy exponentially from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.

 

The council boss said that the much expected growth would be achieved through private sector investment and catalysation of productivity in rural areas.

 

He said the 2025 budget would give effect to the Council’s 2025-2026 Rolling Plan that aims to ensure food security; enhance employment opportunities; rehabilitate, equip, and intensify primary healthcare delivery facilities and system; develop and invest in tourism and market projects.

 

“It will also improve transportation system through rehabilitation of existing rural roads and the construction of new ones and enforce quality education and academic grants,” he said.

He stressed that the budget funding would benefit from a significant improvement in the Council’s IGR predicated on ventures like the development of several markets, real estates and plugging of loopholes in revenue collection among others.

 

According to him, it is a budget anchored on our firm resolve to open up the economic corridors and potentials of our landlocked local government in our determined efforts to move Isi-Uzo council from a rural to a semi-urban council in Enugu State.

 

“We have proposed N2.5 billion for recurrent expenditure. This is further divided into Personnel Costs/ Emoluments and Overhead Costs. Personnel Cost/Emoluments amounts to N2.2 billion while, Overhead Cost is summed to N250 million. Capital Expenditure takes N3.1 billion,” he said.

 

Listing some of the key capital proposals, he said in the budget Road and Bridges will gulp N860 million.

He said, “This is a great increase from the previous budget and reflects our poise for quality human resources management and to open-up the rural communities and create hazard-free transportation of goods and services.

 

“This is followed by Gender, Water and Housing, which is N285 million. Health is next with N226 million. This is followed by Power (Electrification) with N200 million. Agriculture is next with N181 million, representing a major increment from the previous budget.

 

“A very smart sector of our human and capital development, Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) gets N180 million, while Education is next with N163.8 million.

 

“It must be thankfully emphasised here that the Gov. Mbah’s administration has taken a huge burden off the LGAs through the Smart Green Schools initiative in 260 wards of the state. This major game-changer means that the government is investing over N1 billion in each ward.”

 

The chairman said that Poverty Alleviation and Employment generation earmarked N40 million, while administration would also implement projects and programmes in areas such as Youths and Sports, Environment Improvement and Social Re-orientation.

 

He expressed confidence in the ability of the budget to improve the fortunes of the LGA, promising to courageously push forward despite the vagaries of inflation and other economic headwinds across the nation.

 

“It is a bold step that is achievable. We want to sustain growth and transformation of Isi-Uzo as agents for change, progress and development in line with our governance mandate,” he said.

 

Accepting the budget and responding, the Leader of Isi-Uzo Legislative Council, Mr Irenus Nnaji, representing Mbu Ward II, commended the chairman for his robust, accountable and creative leadership, promising expedited passage of the budget.

 

Nnaji said, “We are equally ready and committed to supporting you in the implementation of the 2025 budget.

 

“We will work closely with you for the development of Isi-Uzo because we believe in the selfless leadership you have provided so far. But if you deviate from your current trajectory, we will equally call you out.”

 

Speaking, the Chairman of Isi-Uzo Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Okey Ogbodo, expressed satisfaction with the road infrastructural and agricultural development thrust of the Council.

 

Ogbodo commended local government autonomy under Gov. Mbah, noting that the governor had been injecting huge funds to implement projects to cover areas that are ordinarily the constitutional responsibilities of local government councils.

 

– DG, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye reaffirms NAFDAC’s zero tolerance for counterfeiters

By Biola Lawal
FLOWERBUDNEWS: The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has made a big hit in its battle against fake products, shutting down 150 shops at Eziukwu Market in Aba, Abia State.

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The regulatory agency disclosed that various expired and fake products worth about N5 Billion were confiscated during a two-day operation on December 16 and 17, 2024 in Aba.

The team uncovered large-scale production and distribution of fake and expired goods, including beverages, carbonated drinks, wines, spirits, vegetable oils, a NAFDAC report on the operation post on its official X Handle, @NafdacAgency disclosed

Operatives of the Agency also confiscated expired but revalidated food items such as noodles, powdered milk, and yoghurt.

The destroyed items were valued at ₦5 billion.

Describing the market as a hub for counterfeit and substandard products, the Director, South-East Zone, Dr. Martins Iluyomade expressed dismay at the continued illegal activities, despite a previous undertaking signed by market leaders in December 2023 to expose counterfeiters.

The @DGatNAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye reaffirmed the Agency’s zero tolerance for such practices.

Prof. Adeyeye restated NAFDAC’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health while working toward a permanent solution to the problem of counterfeit products in the market. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

 

By Biola Lawal
Oshogbo (Flowerbudnews): The Iconic Flyover Bridge being constructed by Governor Ademola Adeleke Administration in Okefia area of Oshogbo will be ready for public use in the first quarter of 2025, Osun State Director of Highways, Engr. Maruf Ojebode has disclosed.

Speaking in an interview with Flowerbudnews in Oshogbo on the steady progress being made on the Mega Project, Engr. Ojebode, said that the completion schedule of the project was on course.

The Director said that the project was already about 70 per cent completed, stressing that the Okefia Flyover Bridge would be finished to a standard and quality obtainable anywhere in the world.

Engr. Ojebode assured that the bridge would be well illuminated, while the
underpass would be landscaped for befitting finishing.

The Director of Highways commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for executing so many infrastructural projects without borrowing a penny.

see”The Governor is doing very well for achieving so much in just about two years,” and for taking developmental projects to the nook and cranny of the state, he noted.

”We.must say KUDOs to the Governor,” Engr. Ojebode declared, disclosing that road construction projects were currently being executed in all the local government areas of the state.

”The Governor has performed beyond expectations in just about two years,” Engr. Ojebode said, noting that with its performance, ”Osun will never be the same again”. (FLOWERBUDNEWS)

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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.