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CSOs to Labour Unions, Call-off Nationwide Strike Now , Economic Hardship Unbearable

… Urge NLC, TUC to Support Tinubu’s Reform Policies

Northern based Coalition of Civil Society Organisations have asked the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress to consider current economic hardship Nigerians are facing and Call-off the ongoing National Strike immediately.

According to the CSOs, the untold hardship caused by the indefinite strike, especially in the north is becoming unbearable for the ordinary citizens, who eke living from daily economic activities.

In the 8-point communique issued after an emergency meeting held at Arewa House, Kaduna today, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations urged the labour unions to consider alternative dispute resolution mechanisms other than strike actions to achieve their demands that will usually ground the economy and cause more hardships to common man.

The communique jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary,Comrade Musa Abdullahi Danbatta and Comrade Yusuf Ibrahim Kudan ,the CSOs said though NLC has the right to mount pressure on government to achieve its demands , the timing is wrong considering the plethora of challenges facing country now .

While stating that they are not insensitive to the plights of labour unions and reasons for the strike , they want the labour unions to consider and be mindful that the issues raised are inherited problems ,which are currently being addressed by the federal government . Adding, ” it would be counter-productive to slow the process down with incessant strike actions, when round table engagements could be better option. “

The Communique further reads: ” We have followed with keen interest , the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led administration and discovered that his economic policies are geared toward economic recovery and ensuring a sustainable sectoral growth and development.

“It is against this background that we resolved the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress and other labour unions should call-off the strike action immediately and consider a round table engagement with federal on issues of their demands .

“We therefore call on respected labour unions to support President Ahmed Tinubu to move the country forward, considering that since assuming office on May 29,203 has demonstrated committed to tackling the economic problems inherited and began the journey to rebuild the country’s battered economy in a difficult situation.

“NLC and TUC should consider that the President was able to take a bold and courageous decision to remove the fuel subsidy to avert a national economic catastrophe of epic proportions,which stunted the growth of economy over the years.

“That it was in consideration of the pains on Nigerians and workers especially that the government rolled out intervention in form Palliatives to help cushion the unintended negative impacts of subsidy removal,such as; working out a minimum wage and salary increase, supporting states and local governments , providing fertilizers to farmers, grains to households, cash transfers to people with low incomes.

“That it is worthy of note that President Tinubu laid out steps to improve incentives for civil servants, including salary increases, improving quality and hygiene of working environments. His payroll-system reforms removed thousands of ghost workers from the system”

The CSOs also asked the labour unions consider the federal government’s Petroleum industry reforms aimed at improving crude oil production output and the ongoing efforts made to repatriate of looted funds, which will no doubt help in revenue generation and enhanced economic stability.

While highlighting Tinubu’s economic recovery reforms, they observed that government has set up a Tax and Fiscal Reforms Committee that is fully at work to deepen the ongoing reforms and reposition the national economy for long-term sustainability.

However, they expressed optimism that these reforms will help reduce the impact of the high cost of living on the citizens.Adding ,”The support bof labour unions as pressure groups is required to help the President focus on redirecting the economy and remove impediments to productivity and competitiveness in order to grow and create millions of decent jobs that are essential for long term economic growth.”

Tribute to Samanja by shehu sani

Tribute to Samanja by shehu sani

Usman BABA PATEGI popularly known as Samanja was a Hausa thespian and dramatist who lighted up the Television for over four decades.His tv sitcom,Samanja was a comedy that re-enacted the daily life in the military baracks.The late Baba Pategi used his experience as a retired Soldier to recreate a Tv soap around the person and the persona of the Regimental Sergeant major,RSM as the leading character.

Baba Pategi Samanja TV series was not just a comedy but a well scripted drama aimed at creating awareness and appreciating the service and sacrifices of our military on and off duty.He also used the tv platform for enlightenment and advocacy on societal issues.His episodes addressed the problems of drug addiction,alcoholism,crime,conflicts and injustices.His drama series is always scripted to plot the victory of good over bad or good over evil and he does it in a way that entertains his audience.

Baba Pategi series has always been one that comes with a lesson and a message centred around the daily challenges,troubles and general duties of the RSM.He captivated his audience by being a man always in charge and always meddling.

Samanja brought to the screen the positive and lively sides of the military barack.The peak of his fame was in the golden era of the tv 70s,80s and 90s when the nation’s state owned broadcaster the NTA was the dominant force in our homes.The younger generation of Nigerians in their 20s and thirties are unlikely to know much about him and his arts.

The coming of multiple private tv stations and the heralding of the Internet and social media era has completely changed a number of things including interest in sitcoms.
Samanja was an accomplished patriot who served his country in the battlefield and on the screen.He was at a time neglected by the Military until they realised their wrongs and intervened in his matter.

The late Samanja used the power of the screen and advocated for peace,unity,patriotism and brotherhood.He lived long enough to see through the journey and the struggle of the country he so much loved.He belonged to a generation that fought for unity and was so passionate about the country.

All that the late Samanja stood for,advocated and believed are timeless and profoundly relevant.

We are all mortals,what will matter at the end is what contribution we made in touching the lives of others.Samanja has proudly accomplished his mission with honour,dignity and grace.

We can fondly remember other cast like his ‘wife’ bariki,mutuwa Dole and rafter.We thank and appreciate those of them still alive and we pray for others who are now late.
May Allah forgive his soul and grant him Aljanna firdausi,Amin.

Samanja,mazan fama…so long and thank you.

Gov.Mutfwang: Forum for Good Governance Wants Appeal Court to Reflect People’s Will

… Condemns verdicts that sacked Plateau lawmakers

Ahead of Appeal Court reserved judgement on victory of Plateau State Governor,Mr. Caleb Mutfwang ,a group under aegis of Forum for Justice and Good Governance (FJGG) warned the judiciary against upturning the people’s will in the state .

According to the group, the situation where the electorate happily trooped out to vote candidates of their choice during the concluded 2023 general elections and the court later upturning such popular victory is not only undemocratic, but also unacceptable.

The group, which issued the warning in a press statement signed by Comrade Daniel Gowong expressed worry over the recent verdict delivered by the Appeal Court in the National Assembly (NASS) election case in Plateau State.

It said ,”The idea of the Election Petition Tribunal nullifying election on the grounds that the PDP candidates did not have a proper party structure and, therefore, could not file candidates for the elections are preselection matters that should hold water at the Appeal Court”.

While describing what happened in Plateau State as insensitive and may not reflect the will of the people, the group explained: “The Appeal Court entering pre-election matters at this point in time is not fair to the people and could deemed as miscarriage of justice “

” We make bold to say ,the decision to declare the former Governor and Minister of Labour, Mr Simon Lalong, winner of the Plateau South Senatorial election against the PDP candidate, Senator Napoleon Bali on grounds the PDP didn’t have structure and lacked the right to take part in the election is a case of travesty of justice.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission had declared Napoleon Bali of the Peoples Democratic Party winner with 148,844 votes, while Lalong scored 91 674 to come second in the February 25 elections.”

” Similarly ,we recalled the recent Court of Appeal at Abuja, in separate judgements, sacked three PDP House of Reps members: Peter Gyendeng representing Barkin-Ladi/Riyom Federal Constituency; Musa Bagos representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency and a fifth-term lawmaker, Beni Lar, who represented Langtang North/Langtang South Federal Constituency over issue invalid nominations by the party.

“For us,these are clear cases of rape of our democracy, and any well-meaning Nigerian must reject it in its ramification.

It however said , “Now that Appeal Court sitting in Abuja has reserved judgment in the appeal by the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress in Plateau state, Nentawe Goshwe challenging the victory of Caleb Mutfwang, we are calling on the judiciary as the last hope of the masses to Affirm Governor Mutfwang victory .

“INEC declared the PDP candidate , Governor Mutfwang as winner of the Guber election with 525,299 votes to defeat his APC rival Goshwe,who polled 481,370 votes in the March 18 governorship election in the state.

“Goshwe later challenged Mutfwang’s victory the tribunal, claiming that the governor was not validly nominated and sponsored by his party with allegations that his election was not conducted in compliance with the electoral act and he did not win the majority of lawful votes cast during the election.

“We would be happy to join people of Plateau State ,if the Appeal Court dismissed the baseless allegations and Affirm Mutfwang’s victory which reflects people choice.”

Renewed Hope Agenda :NNPCL’s Giant Strides Manifesting Results, Says Confederation of APC Support Groups

Renewed Hope Agenda :NNPCL’s Giant Strides Manifesting Results, Says Confederation of APC Support Groups

… As Membe Oil Well Produces 730,000 BPD

Confederation of APC Support Groups commended what it termed the”gigantic strides” at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited under Engineer Mele Kyari led management.

The support groups which expressed joy the the giant strides are now manifesting positive results such that, NEMBE oil well now produces 730,000 bpd that is being exported to Europe, said it is a right step in the right direction as NNPCL moves towards realizing its OPEC production quota and beat her chest among its global peers.

Briefing journalists during a press conference held at the National Headquarters of Confederation of All Progressives Congress Support groups,Abuja on State of the nation , the Director General, Engineer Kailani Muhammad said , “The feat has proved beyond doubt that Mele Kyari is moving NNPCL in line with his TAPE Agenda of Transparency, Accountability, Productivity and Efficiency at the giant oil company.

According to him,it is a milestone in the history of NNPCL’s achievements. Nigerians will continue to appreciate and applaud Mele Kyari, for what he stands for and is doing at the NNPC Towers, to lift Nigeria out of its stagnant economy stigma in the not too- distant future.

On the Renewed Hope Agenda , the Confederation of APC Support Groups said, “We are not unaware of the Nigerian citizens patience, resilience and perseverance with the federal government, on the hardship and associated pains on the fuel subsidy removal, coupled with the depreciation of the Naira value.

“In this direction, the Federal government has given out N5 billion to the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as a short time measure to cushion the effects of the situation. Because of this, CASG has put in place a Monitoring and Evaluation mechanism, to work in collaboration with government agencies, and ensure that the palliatives get to the intended poorest of the poor citizens in the society.”

Speaking on issues of agriculture and food security as well student loan, the DG explained ,”Federal government has declared a state of emergency in the agricultural sector and allocated 25% of fiscal budget to the sector to boost agriculture production in Nigeria.

“The Bola Tinubu administration has opened up 5 million grants to students for educational study anywhere in the world, to be paid back on graduation after gainful employment. The government has also allocated 15% of annual fiscal budget to the education sector to enhance qualitative education and terminate the era of strikes by ASUU and others, while Youth and Women empowerment, through social intervention schemes such as NPower, TraderMoney and school feeding continue.”

He however, appealed appealed to the Nigerian Armed Forces, to keep up the momentum of eradicating insurgents, bandits, terrorists and other associated criminals in the country , adding , it should recruit more personnel to meet up with the complex security challenges in Nigeria.

Meanwhile ,the Confederation of APC Support Groups management is appealed to its membership nationwide, to be patient with the government, as there is high hope that everybody will be accommodated by the APC government, so there is no cause to worry.

Confederation of APC Support Groups Vow to Mobilise Nigerians to Defend Allegations against Tinubu’s Govt.

Confederation of APC Support Groups Vow to Mobilise Nigerians to Defend Allegations against Tinubu’s Govt.

The Confederation of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups said in order to safeguard democracy, it is prepared to mobilise Nigerians to rise up to defend any concocted figments of imaginations allegations against the APC -led Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s government now and in the future.

According to the support groups, the action will not only create an atmosphere for unity and development, but also ensure justice and fair play prevailed.

Speaking during a press conference held at the National Headquarters of Confederation of All Progressives Congress Support groups,Abuja , the Director General, Engineer Kailani Muhammad ,who disclosed this , spoke on need to continue to interact with the Nigerian citizens and highlight on the positive developments and the challenges in our country.

While noting that the interaction will help development in the context of positive engagements ,he strongly believes that optimism it can foster cohesion within the template of Nigeria’s democratic dispensation.

He further said ,”Today, I am privileged to put forward a minimal contribution, and for the sake of posterity, acquaint and appeal to all Nigerians, on the need for unity of purpose, that will propel our democratic sojourn into the much-desired socio- economic and political development within the space of purposeful discuss.”

On the consequences of NLC strike, the Director General recalled how he made passionate appeal to NLC to shelve the planned nationwide strike action, to avoid its subsequent multiplier consequences on our national economy.

He further stated, ” It is quite unfortunate that my appeal fell on deaf ears because, two days ago, being the 8th of November, 2023, NLC embarked on a strike action that barricaded access to the Nnamdi Azikwe International airport, Abuja, alongside Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos. The action disrupted both human and traffic movements and halted airport activities for several hours.

“We advised the NLC leadership to desist from using its membership for personal gains. To antagonize the federal government because its candidate lost out at the presidential election is not sound logic. That the NLC has been romancing with Mr Peter Obi, before and after the February Presidential election, and that NLC has become a partisan political affiliation of the Labour Party (LP) is undisputable.

“It is one thing hiding under the umbrella of a labour union and play partisan politics, but it is a different ball-game to transfer the pangs of failure to an elected President of the Federal Republic and wage a personal war of hatred on his government. This is unacceptable and must be condemned by all.

“Nigerians are feeling the pains of the fuel subsidy removal in diverse ways. The NLC should not add salt to injury. The best way out of this alleged attack on Joe Ajeoro, the NLC President, is to exhaustedly engage on a round table discussion for an amicable solution, instead of heating up the polity. “

Accolades For Kyari For Repositioning NNPCL To Greater Heights

Accolades For Kyari For Repositioning NNPCL To Greater Heights

By Benjamin Agatha

In the midst of production and environmental challenges, the Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Malam Mele Kolo Kyari has demonstrated leadership proficiency that is gradually repositioning the company for greater efficiency.

Both at domestic and international levels, NNPC Limited had been facing daunting challenges, but the company is gradually experiencing rebound in its production capacity and efficiency.

From oil theft, bunkering, environmental degradation, low productivity and inaccessibility of its products at international level, the growth and operational development of NNPC Limited, had been stymied.

But through good administration and transparent management exhibited by the Managing Director, the company is rightly and timely making progress and is working for the country at minimum possible cost.

Kyari had successfully put in place, some far reaching decisions, resulting in significant turn around that led the company to in September 2023, recorded its highest crude oil and condensate output.

So far, the company’s production has reached 1.72 million barrels a day, which of course, became the beginning of the nation’s production rebound after many years of underproduction.

At domestic level, the country has being facing the threat of insecurity and severe threats on the NNPC’s facilities, cases abound of high rate of oil theft, bunkering and environmental degradation, while at the International level, Nigeria faces the problem of marketability of its oil products.

The major challenge of the lingering conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the Covid-19 pandemic were some of the international crises that had adverse effect on the nation’s crude production, thereby reducing its inflow into international markets.

These developments have impacted so much on the Nigerian crude oil inflows in the international oil market, leading to a dip in demand from the once-dependable Asian market at the onset of hostilities in the Eastern bloc.

Before now, the total lockdown Nigeria had experienced as a result of the ravaging and devastating effect of COVID-19 pandemic had significantly caused set back on the nation’s crude production, which resulted in the deep cut in the nation’s revenue and impacted negatively on it’s economic growth.

NNPCL has also faced the problem of reduced investment in the upstream sector, its supply chain was also disrupted, hence impacting in the upstream operations, ageing oil fields, and oil theft by unscrupulous elements, factors that greatly contributed to production declines in the second half of 2022 and early 2023.

But these challenges are fast becoming a thing of the past with the introduction and implementation of a new framework for the domestic petroleum industry (the PIA of 2021), the rejuvenating of the business landscape, and the re-positioning of NNPC Limited to adopt a more commercial approach to the management of the nation’s hydrocarbon resources.

All these and many more measures were put in place as a result of Kyari’s profer insight. NNPC Limited is now robust. It has secured vital partnerships with notable financial institutions to promote upstream investments in order to restore and sustainably grow production capacity in the coming years.

The company is equally championing concerted efforts in partnership with host communities and private stakeholders to address the security and environmental challenges in the Niger Delta with a view to further fortify production growth.

Nigeria has already begun seeing significant progress on the rebound, as Kyari has demonstrated proficient leadership, and initiated far reaching measures that were in tandem with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which continue to upscale the company’s activities and turn around its production level.

An organization that was once regarded as moribund because of its underperformance had suddenly became a cornerstone for the nation’s economic growth, with greater prospects and efficient outlook.

Kyari had successfully made its operations highly efficient with verifiable financial forecasts; organised work and is being operated in an efficient manner proferly and sensibly.

The Executive Director, Crude & Condensate, NNPC Trading Limited, Maryamu Idris had attested to these facts. In her view, although the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has triggered a situation where India, a primary destination for Nigerian grades, had increased its appetite for discounted Russian barrels to the detriment of some Nigerian volumes, yet NNPC Limited has been up and doing in the production rebound.

Already, the Nigerian crude flow to Europe has increased in a bid to fill supply gaps left by the ban on Russian crude, in addition to sustainably growing upstream production volumes.

NNPC Limited is also increasing its participation in the downstream sector in line with a ‘wells-to-wheels’ approach, taking the country’s unique hydrocarbon molecules as close as possible to end-users.

The vehicle responsible for these changes, is of course the efficient restructuring of the NNPC Trading Company, that’s focused on growing NNPC’s presence in the global market for crude, condensate, gas, and petroleum products.

Kyari’s transparent approach to the company has equally helped in achieving the objectives and vision of the organisation with improved accountability and responsibilities in line with the provisions of PIA.

In spite of the various challenges of production, environmental degradation and sabotage, Kyari has shown real and effective leadership in the management of the company, making it to brace up to a greater future.

Kyari’s effectiveness, honesty and transparency are his key strengths that are working for him, as he fixed eyes in the management of NNPCL to achieve the desired targets in line with the PIA objectives.

His vision is concise, vivid, accurate and clear.

He has created a positive environment for workers to perform better, a development that has attracted the Niger State Government to sign memorandum of understanding with the company on Renewable Energy.

His empathy, self and time management skills as well as his emotional intelligence and creative problem solving have been working for the company, thereby repositioning it to attain greater heights in the nearest future.

_Agatha contributed this piece from Maitama, Abuja_

Group Condemns Attacks on Matawalle …Passes Vote of Confidence on him as Minister

Group Condemns Attacks on Matawalle …Passes Vote of Confidence on him as Minister

A group, National Movement for Good Governance(NMGG) has condemned the recent attacks and call by some groups for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the anti-corruption body Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to probe the alleged misappropriation of Zamfara State resources by Matawalle, who is the immediate former governor of the State.

According to the group, the call on President to immediately suspend Bello Matawalle as the Minister of State for Defence is not only premature,but also unnecessary considering his past records of performance and commitment to nation building during his days as Governor and now Minister.

The group however asked Zamfara State Governor,Dr. Dauda Lawal Dare and Minister of State Defense, Alhaji Bello Matawalle to sheath sword and join hands together to tackle the recurring insecurity problems in the State.

While saying there no basis for the bickerings over his appointment as Minister ,the group however said ,” Findings revealed that Matawalle did his best to contain the challenges of Insecurity and development with proactive measures while he held sway as Governor and if sustained by Governor Dauda Lawal, it will surely help end banditry and create atmosphere for business to thrive in the state.

The northern based group
in a press statement made available to journalists in Kaduna today said, the recent allegations against immediate-past administration of Matawalle over issues of misappropriation of funds and Gusau International (Cargo) Airport project are unhealthy and unnecessary for growth and development of Zamafa State .

In the statement signed by Comrade Ibrahim Dabo ,the group maintained a ,”Instead of these unnecessary accusations against Matawalle, who during his days as Governor of the State fought and tackled the insecurity situation inherited ,when he took over power in 2019, we expect the current Governor to meet with the Minister and work together to find a lasting solution to the lingering insecurity challenges.

The statement further reads :”Instead of these attacks,there is need for Zamfara Governor to capitalise on the advantage of Former Governor Matawalle as a Minister in-charge of security to deploy troops to rid the state of bandits without any delay.

“We recalled that the incumbent Governor made promise during campaigns to address the problem of banditry and criminal activities .But our findings revealed that the mass abduction to waves of attacks, killings, and maiming of hundreds of innocent people, bedeviling the state remain unabated, hence the need for this much desired collaboration .

“Part of reasons we insisted on collaborative efforts is because, with the duo working together on matters of security, the spiral effect will no doubt help create a sustainable structure and institutional framework that will bring focus and direction to fight the banditry head

“We expect Governor Dauda Lawal to know that the welfare, well-being, and security of lives and property of the citizens is a constitutional matter that requires attention of all leaders in the stakeholders.”

Speaking on matter of cargo airport that stirred up recent acrimony , the group explained,”We gathered from reliable sources that the services of competent consultant were engaged in the execution of the cargo airport with all relevant documents at hand.

It however advised,”If the problem of banditry and other insecurity challenges would be solved ,the only solution is for Governor and all stakeholders to jettison blame game and fully be committed to fighting the ugly security situation bedeviling the State over the years”.

Fine MIT To Boost Nigeria’s Economy By Encouraging Remission Of $ 200,000 To Nigeria – CEO

In a bid to enhance employment opportunities and create jobs for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), a United Kingdom based Nigerian Enterprenuer, Mr. Temitope Emmanuel Amujo has concluded plans to launch a FinTecH app called ‘finREMIT’ in December 1st, 2023

Speaking to Newsmen via zoom meeting yesterday, Mr. Amujo who is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of finREMIT said the app is targeted at remitting a whopping sum of £200,000 pounds into the Economy through the creation of about 200 SMEs between Nigerians abroad and those at home within the period of the first quarter of 2024.

According to him finREMIT is making arrangement with the Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) popularly known as commercial Banks and the Microfinance Banks (MFBs) for a seemless transactions to build trust of Nigerians in disapora to channel their funds confidently without being doubtful in their Investments back home.

He said “I stand before you today not just as the Founder and CEO of FinREMIT but as a devoted advocate for transformative change within our nation’s financial landscape. It is an honor to unveil a groundbreaking FinTech innovation that promises to reshape our understanding of remittances and financial empowerment.

While leveraging on the highest population as black Nation he said “Approximately 17 million Nigerians live abroad, making us one of the largest African communities overseas. Annually, our diaspora contributes over $25 billion in remittances, a lifeline for both families and the national economy.

“However, the truth remains that our migration (known as “Japa”) is not an issue; it’s a testament to our potential. The real sin lies in not harnessing the immense power of these billion-dollar remittances to uplift our nation.

“On December 1st, we will make history as we launch the UK-Nigeria bilateral version of our FinREMIT FinTech web and mobile App, with the following unique value proposition (UVPs)

“Our next steps is to officially launch the FinREMIT web and mobile App on the 1st December2023. We will commence our first level of Foreign Direct Investment inflow into Nigeria directly to SMEs, NGOs and social enterprises that have been empowered to be investment-Ready.

“Our target is to Remit-2-Invest a minimum of £200,000 pounds to a minimum of 200 smallbusinesses by first quarter of 2024 and ensure each businesses employ 2 new staff, and are
registered to pay the statutory P.A.Y.E tax to the Nigerian government. This is an approach to create a minimum of 400 new jobs every 2 months and increase income tax of the Government.”

The Nigerian-born serial entrepreneur, stressed that FinREMIT is a transformative web and mobile application representing innovation and progress in its truest form.

According to him the app transcends the confines of a mere financial application; it embodies a movement, a force designed to empower every individual in the African diaspora.

He said “it offers comprehensive personal finance, education and investment guidance. Yet, our mission extends far beyond individual empowerment.

“FinREMIT acts as a bridge connecting us to our roots, enabling the flow of
remittances to bolster Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), NGOs, and social enterprises, entities traditionally sidelined in conventional financial markets.”

The Financial Expert while speaking non the distinctive feature of the app explained that on Personal & Corporate Finance Education FinREMIT offers a seamless platform guiding individuals and businesses toward prudent financial decisions, cultivating effortless savings habit and building investments portfolio with ease.

“We would do this for Nigerians in diaspora, Nigerians at home and Nigerian own business.Tailored Investment Guidance as Our application provides personalized investment advice, ensuring users make informed choices aligned with their financial aspirations.

Mr. Amujo summoned that the app will assist in facilitating Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) by channeling remittances to empower SMEs, NGOs, and social enterprises, fostering economic growth and social impact.

” We empower African businesses to attract foreign direct investment, propelling them to contribute significantly to our nation’s economy.

He noted that their shared vision transcends geographical boundaries in striving to illustrate how FinREMIT serves as a catalyst for sustainable global growth, enhancing the lives of Nigerians in the diaspora, through savings and investment, fostering a vibrant connection with our homeland
to promote sustainable growth through Nigerians in diaspora.

He said “Through this transformative initiative we aim to transform migration (Japa) into a force for constructive change and shaping a prosperous future for us all.

In terms of collaboration he emphasized that his team will partner with the commercial Banks in ensuring that investors (Nigerians at Disapora) money are channels in a safe and secured system for the execution of their projects in the country with a high level of transparency.

He said “When you ask 10 Nigerians in Diaspora, would you like to come back to Nigeria if Nigeria is like your present place of destination? Their response is capital YES. Just like India was able to achieve drastic transformation through migration and migrant’s remittances, we at FinREMIT are extendIng a heartfelt invitation to all media houses, Nigerian Government, corporate entities and Nigerians in diaspora to join hands with us in this transformative journey.

“Together, we can enlighten the public about FinREMIT’s revolutionary impact, shedding light on how it redefines remittances and drives financial inclusion. Collaboration is our cornerstone, amplifying our reach to every corner of our
nation and beyond.”

The CEO reiterated that by mid of 2024 they hope to start mobilizing significant FDI from Nigerians in diaspora for capital infrastructure project.

“Our long term vision is to mobilise an average of $50 million annually as remittances-driven Foreign Direct Investment out of the $25 billion remittancestock.

He noted that the app is pioneering Financial Empowerment for Nigerians Abroad in bridging the Gap with businesses opportunities in the local sector.

GROUP BACKS NNPC, REJECTS NEGATIVE CAMPAIGN AGAINST KYARI

…Calls on Critics to Join Hands

A group under the auspices of Nigeria Oil & Gas Progress Report has condemned the media attack on the NNPC management led by Malam Mele Kyari, saying it was the handiwork of oil thieves and their collaborators.

A statement signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Tirmizi Imam on Monday said the NNPC media attackers have “deliberately turned their eyes away from the successes recorded by the Kyari-led management, in a desperate move to divert public attention”.

The group recalled that the Kyari-led management was the first NNPC leadership to demonstrate transparency by letting Nigerians know how much the oil giant is making in terms of profit and how much is being spent each month in the media.

” Secondly, the Kyari-led NNPCLTD management launched a relentless war against unpatriotic elements operating illegal Refineries and giving full statistics of those uncovered, at regular intervals. Beyond policing the refineries, the NNPC management was repeatedly forthcoming with prompt solutions to artificial fuel scarcity, usually blamed on independent marketers”, Tirmizi noted in the statement.

The group said the efforts by Kyari-led management to revamp Nigeria’s four refineries, ahead of planned export of refined crude oil, next year – 2024 will “magically boost the nation’s economy in a big way, in addition to the massive training and retraining of management and staff of the company”.

The statement also noted that the NNPC management has been able to conduct regular staff structure overhauls to “pave the way for more professionalism and result-oriented services for the good of this country”.

Recalling that the Kyari-led management has demonstrated enough commitment to turning around the fortunes of the oil giant, the group called on critics to be patriotic enough to join hands in the ongoing reforms of the oil and gas sector in Nigeria.

“We are not saying it is wrong to criticise leaders, but we are only in support of constructive criticism. We are not for criticisms meant to distract public officials from doing what is right; or being decidedly partisan on a matter of national economic development and stability”, Tirmizi pointed out in the statement.

Call-off Strike to Avoid More Economic Hardship, APC Support Groups tell NLC

In it efforts to stop the planned strike action, Confederation of All Progressives Congress Support Groups (CASG) has asked the Nigeria Labour Congress to shelve action scheduled for protest against the recent assault on it National President, Comrade Joe Ajaero in Imo State .

According to the APC Support Groups, the appeal is made against the backdrop of the palpable tension dire consequences the NLC protest might have on the fragile economy .

In a press statement made available to Journalists today , the APC Support Groups insisted the strike action will no doubt ,derail and stampede the economy and create unnecessary chaos by its consequential associated halting of all economy activities in the country.

While emphasing on need to call off the strike, which according to him, if left unattended, has the capacity to disrupt the entire fabrics of the economy and socio-democratic processes of our dear nation, the DG drew attention of the labour unions on some of the most devastating effects of the impending strike action.

The statement further reads : “We believe that the NLC knows the consequences of the planned strike action fully well, more than anybody else.

“The Common man on the street, who the NLC protects, will be more negatively impacted. This is because the already high cost of goods and services will sour to unimaginable proportions. This is deadly because they cannot be bought down with the change of situations. As we all know, prices do not ever come down in Nigeria once they go up.

“It is in view of the above submissions that we are making this appeal, firstly as concerned citizens and more importantly, as true democrats, whose main focus is the well-being of the Nigerian nation.

“NLC should, as a matter of contingency, remove any planned strike action on its agenda to solve any issue that might have been raised between the union and Imo State government.”

The support groups however, advised NLC to engage the Imo State government on a round table discussion for an amicable solution, instead of using aggressive methods that worsens situations.

They appealed to NLC , the umbrella body of Nigerian workers, to shelve its planned strike national action on the physical assault on the Nigerian Labour Congress President , Comrade Joe Ajaero in Imo State.