Flowerbud News

Category: General News

  • Minister says Tinubu is committed to harnessing full potentials of marine economy

    Minister says Tinubu is committed to harnessing full potentials of marine economy

     

    By Flowerbudnews
    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola, says President Bola Tinubu is committed to harnessing the full potential of the marine economy for job creation and economic prosperity.

    Oyetola said this in a keynote address to the 2nd Hybrid International Conference of the Institute of Maritime Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus on Wednesday in Enugu.

     

    The two-day conference is themed: “Navigating the Future: Anchoring Sustainability While Bridging the Gap Between Economic Growth and Marine Preservation.”

     

    The minister, represented by Director, Maritime Services, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Mercy Ilori, said that the establishment of the ministry was a strategic step toward unlocking Nigeria’s vast maritime potential beyond oil and gas.

    “As we chart this new course, sustainable practices, environmental stewardship, and inclusive community engagement must remain at the core of our initiatives.

     

    “In line with this, the ministry has taken deliberate steps to strengthen the regulatory, legal, institutional and policy frameworks for the management and development of the sector.

     

    “We have painstakingly devoted attention to the crafting of a sound policy framework to govern and direct the sector.

    “We have ensured that both the process and outcomes are given diligent attention. Our approach has been to guarantee a comprehensive and holistic National Policy for the Marine and Blue Economy,” he said.

     

    According to him, currently the ministry and its agencies are implementing programmes in marine environmental protection to combat pollution and preserve aquatic ecosystems.

     

    Oyetola noted that the ministry was leveraging private sector resources and technology to drive an agenda aimed at modernising the infrastructure and systems.

    “Some of the initiatives included: Modernisation and reconstruction of the Western and Eastern Ports. This effort is expected to generate over 20,000 direct employment opportunities.

     

    “Facilitation of the development of Fish Terminal/Harbour, Inland Dry Ports, modern shipyards, the establishment of a National Shipping Carrier, a host of digital platforms for the management of sector transactions; all through private sector led initiatives,” he added.

     

    The minister said that the theme of the conference was relevant and significant; while commending the Institute for its commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration in maritime space.

    Earlier, the Acting Vice Chancellor of University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Prof. Oguejiofo Ujam, noted that the country’s oceans and coastal zones are more than just resources; “they are the lifeblood of global commerce, biodiversity, and cultural heritage.”

     

    Ujam, represented by Prof. Ike Agbaeze, said that in an era of rapid industrialisation and environmental challenges, “it demands our collective responsibility and determination to ensure that economic development does not imperil our planet’s health, particularly our oceans and seas.

     

    The vice chancellor lauded the institute and its management for pushing forward the frontier of scholarly knowledge and research on marine economy and opening up the sector for the benefit of all.

     

    In a welcome address, the Director of the Institute, Prof. Florence Orabueze, noted that the rapid growth of the global economy had driven an increased demand for marine resources and maritime activities.

     

    Orabueze said, “Our oceans, seas, and coastal zones are vital for international trade, energy, food security, and biodiversity; yet they face unprecedented pressures from overexploitation, pollution, and climate change.

     

    “We must reconcile economic development with the health and sustainability of our marine ecosystems.

     

    “This conference serves as a dynamic platform for scholars, practitioners, policymakers, and stakeholders to engage in thoughtful dialogue and develop strategies that balance economic progress with marine conservation.”

     

    Highlights of the opening ceremony included a Lead Paper titled: “Blue Economy – New Opportunities for Nigeria”, presented by Prof. Christian Madu, a renowned global Professor of Environment and Climate Change.

     

    There was also Fellowship Awards of the Institute conferred on the Minister and former Governor of Kano State, Malam Ibrahim Shekarau, among others.

  • Clampdown Looms for Unregistered Hotels, Tourism Agencies in Oyo State

    Clampdown Looms for Unregistered Hotels, Tourism Agencies in Oyo State

     

    Clampdown Looms for Unregistered Hotels, Tourism Agencies in Oyo State

    By Adewale Owoade

    The Oyo State government has announced plans to crack down on unregistered and illegal hotels, hospitality establishments, and tour agencies. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, made the announcement at a press conference.

    Olatunbosun stated further that the move aims to boost internal revenue and curb crimes at these establishments.

    The government is collaborating with security agencies and registered hotel owners to achieve this goal.

    He attributed the influx of businesses in the state to its quality infrastructure and security architecture.

    The process will begin next week with awareness campaigns across the state’s geo-political zones.

    Otunba Ayodele Ogundele, Chairman of the Hotelier Association of Oyo State, urged hotel owners to cooperate with the government, emphasising the need for professionalism, proper verification, and accountability from visitors.

    This move is expected to improve safety and security for citizens and businesses in the state.

  • Makinde Receives Report on Bodija Explosion Relief Fund, Promises Swift Action.

    Makinde Receives Report on Bodija Explosion Relief Fund, Promises Swift Action.

    Makinde Receives Report on Bodija Explosion Relief Fund, Promises Swift Action

    By Adewale Owoade

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has received the report of the Committee on Management/Disbursement of Bodija Explosion Relief Fund.

    The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, assured that the state government will look into the recommendations and implement them as appropriate.

    The committee’s report is divided into four volumes, covering the disbursement and management of the relief fund, framework for distribution of government financial support, breakdown of money apportioned to support affected persons, and a pictorial representation of damages recorded during the explosion.

    Lawal noted that the event leading to the committee’s setup was sad and avoidable, and the state government responded with emergency services and post-explosion support services.

    He emphasised the importance of security consciousness and alertness among residents.

    The committee proposed support for different categories of victims, including those who lost loved ones, buildings, vehicles, and other valuables.

    “So, on behalf of His Excellency, I want to assure that this report would be looked into quickly and the recommendations therein would be implemented.

    “We know that we do not have the luxury of further delay in implementation. We will put in all the efforts that will be required for quick implementation, so that victims of the explosion would be assuaged and assisted without further delay.

    Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose, president of Bodija Estate Residents Association, clarified that the relief fund is a support and not compensation, but if implemented, it will assist the victims.

    He said: “We proposed support for different categories of people – for the families of those who lost their lives and those who lost buildings, vehicles and the rest. So, it varies.

    “We recommended different figures depending on what we perceived was the level of effect on each of these people.

    “Our expectations are that, like His Excellency said, the implementation will be expedited. We have done due diligence and what we are presenting will be ready to go.

    “We appreciate the expediency that made the state government agree that the Deputy Governor himself should stand in for the governor.

    “So, our expectation is that the implementation would be done with expediency.

    “On the relief fund, if what we recommended is implemented, there is no doubt that it would help. And don’t forget that it is called support. So, you can’t complain. If it was compensation, you can claim what you lost but this is a kind of support and it is what should be appreciated.

    “I know that for those who would receive, whatever they get is going to be well appreciated.

    “We have shown appreciation to our governor on the treatment of those who were affected during the incident. Our roads are now being done. If we are going to have development, there is going to be complaint.

    “We appreciate what the government has done so far.”

     

  • EFCC operatives attempt to arrest bank staff in court despite court order

    EFCC operatives attempt to arrest bank staff in court despite court order

     

    The operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Tuesday attempted to arrest Mr Chinenye Duru, a Polaris Bank staff, in a Federal High Court in Abuja, in spite of a court order stopping the arrest.

    The development came shortly after Justice Inyang Ekwo adjourned an alleged fraud charge filed by the Inspector-General (I-G) of Police against Polaris Bank Plc and Duru until May 14 for adoption.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the I-G had, in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/603/2023, preferred an 11-count money laundering offences against Polaris Bank Plc and Duru, an account officer to Mr Victor Onukogu, the nominal complainant.

    They were named in the charge as 1st and 2nd defendants.
    NAN reports that Onukogu, also known as “Daddy Hezekiah”, is the spiritual head of Living Christ Mission Church, Onitsha in Anambra.

    In count one of the charge, Polaris Bank and Duru were alleged to have between Nov. 17, 2017, and Aug 14, 2023, fraudulently withdrawn N16billion and N500 million from Onukogu Victor Hezekiah’s account numbers: 1040495455 and 1060104735, domiciled with the bank.
    The offence, the anti graft agency said contravened the provisions of Section 21 (a) and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.”
    In count four, the defendants were alleged to have between Nov. 17, 2017 and Aug. 14, 2023, fraudulently withdrawn N75. 534 million from Onukogu’s account number: 4010023601 contrary to Section 18 (2) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.
    In count six, they were alleged to have fraudulently withdrawn N13.3 million from Hezekiah University’s account number: 40910106770.
    The defendants were also alleged to have fraudulently withdrawn N16.3 million between the same date from Hezekiah University’s account number: 411054152 without any authorisation from the account owner with the intention of converting same to their own personal use contrary to the Money Laundering Act, among other counts.
    Earlier , O S. Kara, who appeared for the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), informed the court that after the office of the AGF took over the case and after reviewing the case, the AGF withdraw the charge.
    Mr Chidi Ezenwafor, who represented Duru, disagreed with Kara’s application to withdraw the charge.
    Ezenwafor told the court that the request to withdraw the charge was an attempt to re-arrest his client.
    He said the charge was filed in 2023, and when Duru was arrested then, he was detained for about two months before he was released after a court order.
    The lawyer, therefore, sought to file an application in response to the AGF’s request.
    Justice Ekwo, who ordered Ezenwafor to file his application and serve the prosecution, directed the AGF lawyer to also respond appropriately.
    The judge then adjourned the matter until May 14 for adoption.
    However, shortly after Duru and his family members came out of the Court 5, where the proceeding was heard, the EFCC operatives, who had laid ambush outside the court wanted to arrest him and he ran back into the courtroom.
    Although Justice Ekwo was already on another matter, there was a confusion in the court as security details attached to the judge blocked the EFCC operatives from arresting Duru inside the courtroom.
    Duru’s lawyer, who was still inside the court, called the attention of the judge to their plights.
    Ezenwafor, while addressing the court, said the event outside the court had just confirmed his earlier submission.
    He said security officers of the anti-graft agency were in and around the court to arrest his client.
    He said the action of the EFCC was in contempt of court and amounted to sacrilege, even when the matter was still pending before the court and the matter had just been adjourned for hearing.
    Justice Ekwo, who directed Duru to sit down in the courtroom, ordered the EFCC operatives not to arrest him in court.
    The judge said if Duru was needed, the commission should formally invite him and if he didn’t come, that would be a different case.
    The judge then told his security details not to allow anyone to arrest the defendant in court.
    After the court sitting and the judge rose, some of the commission’s officers entered the courtroom to engage Duru in conversation but the court security details did not allow them to take him away.
    NAN reports that in spite of the judge’s intervention, operatives of the anti-corruption commission stood their ground as they positioned themselves on the 3rd floor of the high-rise building where Court 5 is located.

  • Alleged Okuama killings:Court permits ex-Bayelsa LG chair to testify

    Alleged Okuama killings:Court permits ex-Bayelsa LG chair to testify

     

     

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has permitted Mr Lucky Okodeh, a former Caretaker Chairman, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa, to give oral evidence in his N2 billion suit against the Nigerian Army.

    Justice Binta Nyako gave the order on Wednesday after the applicant’s lawyer, Mr Femi Falana, SAN, disagreed with the argument of the counsel to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Mike Enahoro-Ebah, that the army did not, at any time, declared Okodeh wanted.

    Falana submitted that there was conflict of facts in the affidavits filed by parties before the judge, hence, the need for his client to clear the air on the matter through oral evidence.

    He insisted that the Nigerian Army allegedly published the claimant’s photograph among those wanted in connection to the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama in Delta.

    He, therefore, prayed the court to allow Okodeh to come to court in the next adjourned date to give his evidence.
    Enahoro-Ebah, however, opposed Falana’s application.

    The lawyer argued that the COAS and the Nigerian Army did not declare Okodeh wanted at any time.

    He said the applicant was unknown to the COAS and by extension, the Nigerian Army.
    He said Okodeh was not a person of interest, hence, the suit was unnecessary.
    He urged the court not to grant Falana’s plea.
    Justice Nyako, in a ruling, granted Falana’s application and adjourned the matter until April 28 for Okodeh to give his oral evidence.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Okodeh had filed the fundamental rights enforcement suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/590/24 against the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and COAS of the Nigerian Army as 1st and 2nd respondents.
    Okodeh, in the suit dated and filed on May 3, 2024, by Mr Falana, accused the defendants of allegedly publishing his photograph among those wanted in connection to the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama in Delta.
    He, therefore, prayed the court to award N2 billion in damages against the respondents for the alleged violation of his rights to personal liberty and dignity.
    The applicant also prayed the court to set aside his declaration and award the fine as compensation for damages suffered over the action of the Defence Headquarters Abuja.
    In the affidavit in support of the suit, Okodeh averred that the action of the defendants had affected his political career and made him to go into hiding.
    On March 14, 2024; 17 officers of the Nigerian Army were murdered by unknown persons in Okuama in Delta, causing the Defence Headquarters Abuja to declare eight persons wanted.
    Though Okodeh’s name was not published among the wanted list, his photograph was allegedly posted on a name which was not his, which he also said no member of his family or extended family bears.
    Okodeh, who was the chairmanship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the April 11, 2024, LG elections in the state, was forced to drop his name and substitute it with another candidate following the publication of his photograph in the wanted list.
    Other prayers sought in the suit include an order of perpetual injunction restraining the CDS and COAS from arresting him as he is a law-abiding citizen of Nigeria who had never had any criminal record right from childhood.
    He equally prayed the court to order the respondents to tender an apology which should be published on both print and electronic media, so that he could have his freedom to live his normal life.
    The COAS, in a counter affidavit filed on Nov. 28, 2024 by Enahoro-Ebah, prayed the court to dismiss the suit for being purely speculative and hypothetical.
    “On March 14, 2024, 17 officers and soldiers who were deployed on a peacekeeping mission in Okuama Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, were gruesomely killed.
    “The 17 officers and soldiers killed, comprises a Lieutenant Colonel, Two Majors, One Captain, and 13 Soldiers,” he said.
    He said that the COAS was aware of eight individuals who were persons of interest in the ongoing investigation connected to the killing.
    The lawyer said though the names and photographs of the eight individuals were published by the Nigerian Defence Headquarters, he said Okodeh was not a person of interest.

  • National Museum of Unity Hosts Dialogue on Traditional Music and Dance.

    National Museum of Unity Hosts Dialogue on Traditional Music and Dance.

    National Museum of Unity Hosts Dialogue on Traditional Music and Dance.

     

    By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

     

    The Curator of the National Museum of Unity, Oriyomi Otuka, emphasised the importance of preserving Nigerian cultural heritage through a collaborative project with the French Institute for Research (IFRA-Nigeria).

    This project, known as the Alternative Nigeria Heritage FEF Project, aims to raise awareness about Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

    At a one-day dialogue tagged “Traditional Music and Dance” for schools in Oyo State, Otuka explained that the project seeks to reveal marginalised objects, attract more visitors to the museum, and encourage interaction with exhibits.

    This initiative transforms the museum into an inclusive and vibrant cultural center.

    The dialogue focused on fostering deepened knowledge of tangible and intangible cultural heritage through engaging conversations.

    Otuka highlighted that intangible cultural heritages, such as sports, crafts, festivals, drama, music, and dance, possess elements of material culture that serve as vehicles for their expressions.

    Among the over 2,500 collections of objects at the museum, there is a section dedicated to musical equipment, showcasing a variety of instruments from different groups in Nigeria.

    Otuka noted that music and dance share a unique relationship, with musical instruments serving as the basis for dance.

    Nigeria is home to a diverse array of dance forms, each reflective of its various cultures. Notable examples include the Minago dance from Plateau, the Udje dance practiced by the Urhobo people, and the Bata dance from Yoruba.

    Dr. Delphine Manetta, IFRA-Nigeria representative, commended the collaboration between the Museum of Unity of Ibadan and IFRA-Nigeria. She acknowledged the efforts of Otuka, Mrs. Christiana Alagbe, and Ms. Adejoke Rafiat Adetoro in organising the event.

    The event featured facilitators Dr. Olaolu Emmanuel Adekola, a specialist in African musicology, and Oluyomi Duro Ladipo, a multi-talented performing artist.

    Some of the schools present included The Polytechnic Ibadan, University of Ibadan, and Lead City University.

  • Gaza: At least six Palestinian babies die from freezing temperatures, lack of heating

    Gaza: At least six Palestinian babies die from freezing temperatures, lack of heating

     

    Extreme cold in the Gaza Strip and little to no heating and shelter have resulted in the deaths of several Palestinian infants.

    At least six Palestinian children in the Gaza Strip have died as a result of freezing temperatures and a lack of adequate housing in the enclave, the health ministry said.

    One doctor said on Monday evening that the nursery department received eight cases of children suffering from severe cold who were admitted to intensive care, according to The New Arab’s siter site, Al-Araby Al-Jadeed. At least three of those children died within hours of their admission, and were only aged between one and two days old.

    The Gaza Strip is experiencing extremely cold weather conditions, as well as a lack of heating and shelter as more and more Palestinians return to rubble and destroyed homes amid the ongoing ceasefire.

    The number of deaths due to the cold in Gaza has risen to 8, including 7 children, since the first week of 2025.

    Meanwhile, the Israeli government continues to delay the release of Palestinian detainees who were due to be freed last Saturday, while Israeli media reports say that Tel Aviv “intends to pressure” Hamas to advance the date for handing over the bodies of four Israeli captives, as well as extending the first phase of the deal for an additional 42 days.

  • Food security: Enugu Council boss, Odo initiates PPP in agriculture

     

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    The Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, Dr Eric Odo, has expressed his administration’s readiness to eradicate poverty and guarantee food security through improved agricultural practices.

    Odo gave the assurance on Wednesday during the flag-off Agricultural Public/Private Partnership Programme (PPPP or P4) between the local government and Resourceful Crop Farmers, at the council headquarters, Ogbede.

     

    He said that his administration would focus on areas of comparative advantage in agriculture, adding that the programme was in line with the agenda of the state Gov. Peter Mbah in using agriculture to uplift the state’s economy.

     

    Odo added that agriculture was a major way to lift people from poverty.

     

    According to him, agriculture is expected to contribute over 17 per cent of the state’s gross domestic product.

     

    “Igbo-Etiti council area has the capacity to support the agricultural programme of the Enugu State Government.

     

    “By 2026, we will make special budgetary provision for this Agriculture P4 programme in order to expand it.

     

    “We have engaged farmers to plant five hectares of yam, cocoyam, pepper, cassava and beniseed,” Odo said.

     

    The chairman, however, warned farmers against misusing funds provided by the government.

     

    “You will account for every kobo given to you; it is a serious business,” he said.

     

    Earlier, the Programme Coordinator, Mr Donatus Okpokoeze, said that under the Agriculture P4 Programme, farmers ready to enhance their agricultural practices would have more opportunities.

     

    According to Okpokoeze, the local government will finance production of crops, while farmers will provide land and services required for the production, under the arrangement.

     

    “At the conclusion of the farming season, the cost price is deducted from the income in favour of the local government that funded everything.

     

    “The net profit is divided between the farmer and the local government on a 70:30 ratio (local government 70 per cent and farmer 30 per cent).

     

    “The farmer must provide a guarantor, who will stand for him or her to avoid abuse of the process,” he said.

  • MAN’s confidence index reflects a steadily recovering economy under President Tinubu’s leadership – TSF

    MAN’s confidence index reflects a steadily recovering economy under President Tinubu’s leadership – TSF

     

    By Danladi Ahmed

    The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) welcomes the recent release of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Confidence Index for Q4 2024, which rose to 50.7 points, reflecting a moderate improvement in the confidence of CEOs in the manufacturing sector.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman Ahmad Sajoh and Secretary Afolabi Josiah, it argued that this signifies the resilience of Nigerian manufacturers and the steady progress of the economy despite persistent macroeconomic challenges

    It read in part: “The rise in MAN Confidence Index aligns seamlessly with the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report, which indicated a return to economic expansion with a 51.0 index point in December 2024 after months of contraction.

    “The PMI report showcased growth across key sectors such as forestry, agriculture, trade, and manufacturing, driven by increased consumer demand and improved business operations during the review period.

    “Together, these indicators provide a compelling narrative of an economy on the path to recovery. The PMI reflects real-time improvements in economic activities, while the MAN Confidence Index captures the optimism of industry leaders who operate within this evolving economic landscape.

    “So for us, this alignment underscores that Nigeria’s economic trajectory is not merely theoretical but is grounded in observable realities.

    ” We are not unaware of the challenges faced by manufacturers, including high energy costs, exchange rate fluctuations, and multiple taxations, remain significant but it is a fact that the Tinubu reforms, including efforts to stabilize the naira, control inflation and implement favourable tax reforms are already yielding tangible results with a significant return to expansion in economic activities after months of contraction.

    “The PMI data reinforces the reality reflected in the MAN report — a gradually stabilizing economy on a path of recovery.

    “The alignment of these two critical economic indicators — MAN Confidence and PMI — is not coincidental but a testament to the pragmatic economic strategies of President Tinubu’s administration.

    “These indicators reflect the reality of a growing economy that is being carefully steered through global and local economic headwinds.

    “We also recognize the gradual drop in prices of essential commodities, signalling an emerging stability in the economic system. We urge stakeholders across the value chain to demonstrate similar confidence by sustaining and enhancing production, distribution, and affordability, contributing to the collective progress of our economy.

    “It is our firm belief that the correlation between the PMI and MAN Confidence Index is a testament to the administration’s commitment to economic revitalization. This positive trend reflects a well-managed economy that, despite global and local challenges, is steadily growing under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

    The group reiterated its call on all stakeholders to continue supporting the administration’s economic policies.