NSIB Boss Makes Case for National Reforms, bags service award

The Director General Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau ( NSIB) Engr. Akin Olateru has canvassed for comprehensive reforms in the country’s socio-economic sectors with a view to enhancing the wellbeing of the citizenry and overall growth and development of Nigeria.

Olateru who stated this in a key note address titled: “Breaking Barriers to National Development, ” at the Nigerian Service Award organised by COA Media in Abuja on Thursday, noted that engaging in agribusiness, job creation, strengthening public services, implementing fiscal and monetary measures aimed at stimulating the economy and achieving quick recovery, improved working conditions for civil servants in both private and public sectors for optimal Performance, among others, are required to adequately address the economic and social barriers that have hindered the national development .

According to a statement on Friday by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NSIB, Dr James Odaudu, the Director General lamented that Nigeria has the largest economy and population in Africa for rapid human and infrastructural development, but 63 years after her independence the nation still faces multiple socio-economic barriers fully manifested in the low and fragile economic growth, poor infrastructure, poor electricity/ energy supply, primary product dependency, foreign currency gap and capital flight, human capital inadequacies, poverty, corruption, insecurity, illiteracy, unemployment, among others.

Explaining further, Olateru said the socio-economic barrier challenge has also caused many Nigerians to continue to leave the country in droves in search of greener pastures in other countries of the world.
This, he said, has resulted in massive emigration of the country’s greatest minds in search of more favorable living conditions and greener pastures across the world.

“Inadequate infrastructures such as, good road network,lack of stable power supply that hinder economic activities in the areas of local manufacturing and production of the domestic products that has grossly affected the volume of the country export according to him has made a lot of Nigerians rely heavily on imported products”.

The Director General who was honoured as the ‘Most Outstanding Public Servant’ at the event for his transformative efforts at NSIB, further Pointed out that an estimated of 3.5 million Nigerians join the labour market yearly with their prospect of being gainfully employed at the end of the day very weakened due to lack of job creations and unavailability of entrepreneurial skills.

He said the poverty rate in Nigeria according to the world Bank is expected to reach 37%in 2023, with an estimated 84million Nigerians living below the poverty line. “This would make Nigeria the world’s second largest poor population after India, saying that the world Bank however, predicted that Nigerian economy is to grow at an average of 3.4% between 2023 to 2025, as a result of the reforms the government has embarked upon.

He therefore called on all Nigerians to key into, and support the current government of president Bola Ahmed Tinibu’s Socio-economic Reform programmes aimed at repositioning the country for the benefit of all .

Dr James Odaudu
Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NSIB

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The Director General Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau( NSIB) Engr. Akin Olateru has canvassed for comprehensive reforms in the country’s socio-economic sectors with a view to enhancing the wellbeing of the citizenry, and over all growth and development of Nigeria.

Olateru who stated this in a key note address titled: “Breaking Barriers to National Development, ” at the Nigerian Service Award organised by COA Media in Abuja on Thursday, noted that engaging in agribusiness, job creations, strengthen public services,implementing fiscal and monetary measures aimed at stimulating the economy and achieving quick recovery, improved working conditions for civil servants in both private and public sectors for optimal Performance, among others, are required to adequately address the economic and social barriers that have hindered the national development .

The NSIB boss lamented that Nigeria has the largest economy and population in Africa for rapid human and infrastructural development, but 63 years after her independence the nation still faces multiple socio-economic barriers fully manifested in the low and fragile economic growth, poor infrastructure, poor electricity/ energy supply, primary product dependency, foreign currency gap and capital flight, human capital inadequacies, poverty, corruption, insecurity, illiteracy, unemployment, among others.

Explaining further, Olateru said the socio economic barrier challenge has also caused many Nigerians to continue to leave the country in droves in search of greener pastures in other countries of the world.
This, he said, has resulted in massive emigration of the country’s greatest minds in search of more favorable living conditions and greener pastures across the world.

“Inadequate infrastructures such as, good road network,lack of stable power supply that hinder economic activities in the areas of local manufacturing and production of the domestic products that has grossly affected the volume of the country export according to him has made a lot of Nigerians rely heavily on imported products”.

The Director General who was honoured as the ‘Most Outstanding Public Servant’ at the event for his transformative efforts at NSIB, further Pointed out that an estimated of 3.5 million Nigerians join the labour market yearly with their prospect of being gainfully employed at the end of the day very weakened due to lack of job creations and unavailability of entrepreneurial skills.

He said the poverty rate in Nigeria according to the world Bank is expected to reach 37%in 2023, with an estimated 84million Nigerians living below the poverty line. “This would make Nigeria the world’s second largest poor population after India, saying that the world Bank however, predicted that Nigerian economy is to grow at an average of 3.4% between 2023 to 2025, as a result of the reforms the government has embarked upon.

He therefore called on all Nigerians to key into, and support the current government of president Bola Ahmed Tinibu’s Socio-economic Reform programmes aimed at repositioning the country for the benefit of all

NSIB INDUCTED INTO MARITIME ACCIDENT INVESTIGATORS INTERNATIONAL FORUM

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has added another feather to its cap with its acceptance into the Marine Accident Investigators’ International Forum (MAIIF).

This induction into MAIIF according to a statement Thursday by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Dr. James Odaudu sets NSIB on the path to even greater successes in its investigative prowess particularly in Maritime investigations and solidifies Nigeria premier spot in Africa as regards transportation accidents and serious incidents investigation.

With MAIIF having over 31 member countries cutting across Europe, Asia, the Americas and Africa, NSIB joins Cape Verde as the second African member.

Speaking on the admission, the NSIB Director-General, Engr Akin Olateru said it would guarantee the nation’s access to international collaboration and assistance from nations involved in maritime safety investigation, similar to what it is already benefiting from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Banjul Accord Group Investigation Agency (BAGIA), African Civil Aviation Commission (AfCAC) in the aviation sector.

According to him, the membership of organisation will further improve the Nations maritime safety and follow global standards in carrying out its investigations.

“This is a step in the right direction for us as a Nation by joining forums like this where we can exchange information, knowledge and ideas,” said Olateru.

Founded in June 1992 as an international non-profit organisation dedicated to the advancement of maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution through the exchange of ideas, experiences and information acquired in marine accident investigation, Its purpose is to promote and improve marine accident investigation, and to foster cooperation and communication between marine accident investigators around the world.

The NSIB was established by the Federal Government under the NSIB Act 2022 and is charged with the responsibility of investigating accidents and serious incident occurrences in Air, Rail, Marine and other modes of transportation in Nigeria and anywhere else Nigeria interest is affected, with the aim of enhancing safety in the transportation sector.

The fundamental objective of the Bureau is to improve transportation safety by determining the circumstances and causes of Air, Rail, Marine and other modes of transportation accidents as well as proffering safety recommended to prevent reoccurrence.

“Davido Shows Support for Rema’s Decision to Prioritize Health”

Davido, through an Instagram story, showed support to fellow Nigerian artist Rema, who recently announced the cancellation of all performances for the remaining month of 2023 to prioritize his health. Davido commended Rema’s achievements, acknowledging the physical and mental challenges of the job. He urged Rema to take the needed rest and return stronger. Rema had shared on Instagram that he needed time to recuperate after years of touring and ignoring his health. Despite the disappointment for fans who were looking forward to his performances, many expressed understanding and wished him a speedy recovery.

“CBN Reforms Present Challenges and Opportunities for Investment Bankers, says Former AIHN President”

Ike Chioke, the former President of the Association of Issuing Houses of Nigeria, has stated that the ongoing currency reforms by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have created both challenges and opportunities for the investment banking industry. Speaking at the Investment Banking Awards Night in Lagos, Chioke highlighted the impact of the free-floating of the naira and the removal of fuel subsidies on various sectors of the economy. Despite the challenges in implementing these reforms, he emphasized that they have brought forth significant opportunities for investment banking, which plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s economy. The awards night recognized outstanding performances in the Debt Capital Market and Equity Capital Markets categories, with Chapel Hill Denham Advisory Limited and StanbicIBTC Capital Limited among the winners.

“Ryan Taylor Reveals Humorous Reason for Split with DJ Cuppy and Ex-Girlfriends”

British boxer Ryan Taylor, in response to a fan’s question during an Instagram Q&A session, revealed that one reason he ended relationships with his ex-girlfriends, including DJ Cuppy, was because they were “shit drivers.” The revelation came as a surprise to fans, and it added a humorous element to the discussion. Taylor and DJ Cuppy had ended their engagement in July, just seven months after their engagement in November 2022. The reason for their split had been a subject of speculation, and Taylor’s response provided a lighthearted insight into one aspect of their relationship.

“Bruna Biancardi Announces Separation from Neymar a Month After Welcoming Daughter”

Bruna Biancardi, the partner of Brazilian footballer Neymar, has announced their separation a month after welcoming their first child together, a daughter named Mavie. Biancardi clarified on Instagram that they are no longer in a romantic relationship but remain connected as parents to their child. The announcement comes amid rumors of Neymar being unfaithful, with previous allegations of compromising footage and recent social media discussions. Neymar, who recently moved to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, has a son from a previous relationship with Brazilian influencer Carolina Dantas.

“Police Rescue Four in Successful Operation in Bauchi State”

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The Bauchi State Police Command has successfully rescued four individuals kidnapped by bandits who invaded Raddi village in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. The bandits had targeted the house of one Yakubu Makeri. The police, along with local vigilantes, swiftly responded to the scene, engaging the bandits in a gun battle. During the encounter, three kidnapped victims—Pastor Bala, Keziya Ayuba, and Sunday Ayuba—were rescued. The Commissioner of Police has ordered increased patrols in the area to apprehend the fleeing bandits.

“UniCal VC: Nigerian Universities Can’t Achieve Autonomy Without Tuition Fees”

Professor Florence Obi, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar (UniCal), has stated that Nigerian universities cannot achieve financial autonomy as long as they are not allowed to collect tuition fees from students. She emphasized that university workers’ salaries are still paid by the government, and capital grants for development are also provided. According to her, without appropriate funding from the government and tuition fees from students, universities struggle to generate sufficient Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Professor Obi highlighted the importance of students paying service charges like examination, medical, and ICT levies, as these funds contribute to running the universities.

She expressed skepticism about the feasibility of remitting 40% of IGR to the government, as proposed in the autonomy policy, citing challenges such as providing essential services if such a policy were implemented. Professor Obi commended the decision to discard the autonomy policy and emphasized the importance of government support for public universities in Nigeria.

Avoid Another Aba Women Riot in Nasarawa, Stakeholders Urges president Tinubu

.Calls for Presidents Intervention Amidst Court Judgement Unrest in Nasarawa

As political tensions continue to escalate in Nasarawa State following conflicting judicial pronouncements regarding the March 18 governorship election, stakeholders are fervently appealing to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to step into the fray and prevent the situation from degenerating into a crisis reminiscent of the historic Aba Women Riots.

Since the declaration of Abdullahi Sule as the victor of the gubernatorial election, women in Nasarawa have taken to the streets adorned in black attire, and in some instances, baring themselves in protest against what they claim to be an erroneous declaration. Their assertion has been that David Ombugadu was the rightful winner of the election.

The legal saga unfolded as the tribunal ruled in favor of Ombugadu, overturning the initial election results. However, the appellate court subsequently upheld Governor Sule’s victory, causing further turmoil and disillusionment among Ombugadu’s supporters. In response, Ombugadu has escalated the legal battle by appealing the case to the Supreme Court.

The deteriorating situation has raised concerns among stakeholders, particularly in light of recent clashes between soldiers and defiant protestors. Despite the military presence attempting to quell the demonstrations following the appeal court’s verdict, the determined protestors vowed to continue their rallies for a total of 20 days until they believe justice prevails.

Stakeholders fear a potential escalation of tensions and are urgently calling on President Tinubu to intervene and help defuse the situation before it spirals out of control. They emphasize the importance of mitigating the risk of the crisis escalating into a larger and potentially violent confrontation, underscoring the need for swift and diplomatic intervention at this critical juncture in Nasarawa’s political landscape.

They said the looming uncertainty regarding the Supreme Court’s decision, coupled with the steadfast resolve of the protestors, underscores the urgency for immediate action to prevent further unrest and preserve peace and stability in Nasarawa State.

In the wake of these unfolding events, various civil society groups, community leaders, and political commentators have highlighted the potential dangers of allowing the situation in Nasarawa to escalate unchecked. They stress that the delicate political climate demands immediate attention and decisive action to prevent a further breakdown of law and order.

“The parallels with historical incidents such as the Aba Women Riots are concerning,” remarked Dr. Aisha Ibrahim, a political analyst based in Abuja. “The fervent determination of the protesting women, coupled with the conflicting judicial outcomes, has created a volatile environment that requires astute leadership and strategic intervention.”

Consequently, stakeholders and concerned citizens are urging a diplomatic and mediated resolution to the impasse. They emphasize the significance of dialogue, consensus-building, and respect for the rule of law in resolving the post-election dispute and restoring calm in Nasarawa.

Meanwhile, security agencies have been urged to exhibit utmost restraint and professionalism in handling the protests, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of citizens while maintaining law and order.

The forthcoming decision by the Supreme Court on the matter is eagerly anticipated, with hopes that it will provide a definitive and legally binding resolution to the contentious gubernatorial election, thereby easing the tensions that have gripped Nasarawa State.

The entire nation watches with bated breath as the situation unfolds in Nasarawa, underscoring the critical need for a peaceful and amicable resolution to the political impasse, preventing any escalation that might endanger the stability and unity of the state.

To jointly maintain stability, smooth operation of global industrial, supply chains

By He Yin, People’s Daily

The first China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE) kicked off in Beijing on Nov. 28.

As the world’s first national-level exhibition themed on supply chains, the event aims at promoting international cooperation on industrial and supply chains, as well as advancing green and low-carbon development and digital transformation. The CISCE will contribute to the healthy development of economic globalization.

The world today is experiencing accelerating changes unseen in a century. Economic globalization is facing countercurrents, and global industrial and supply chains have been impacted.

Chinese President Xi Jinping places high importance on ensuring stable and unimpeded global industrial and supply chains. With a deep insight into the industrial development trend both at home and abroad, he stressed the importance to support the WTO-centered multilateral trading regime, ensure security and stability of the global industrial and supply chains, and make the “pie” of cooperation bigger to allow development gains to better trickle down to people of all countries.

He also said that maintaining the resilience and stability of the global industrial and supply chains is a vital guarantee for promoting the development of the world economy and serves the common interests of people globally.

His remarks have charted the course for maintaining the stability and smooth operation of industrial and supply chains, injecting strong momentum for forging a more equal, inclusive and constructive industrial and supply chain partnership.

China boasts the most industrial categories listed in the United Nations industrial classification. It has maintained its position as the world’s largest manufacturing hub for 13 straight years, accounting for nearly 30 percent of the global manufacturing output. Its status as a vital global manufacturing and supply chain hub is increasingly prominent.

The first CISCE marks a new communication and cooperation platform established by China to promote stable and smooth global industrial and supply chains. With a total exhibition area of 100,000 square meters, it includes five sections of chains and supply chain services, including smart vehicle, green agriculture, clean energy, digital technology, and healthy life.

Over 500 Chinese and foreign enterprises and institutions participate in the expo to showcase their new technologies, products and services in the key sectors of each industrial chain. The CISCE is expected to facilitate the global industrial division of labor, resource allocation, innovation cooperation, and sharing of achievements.

In response to the urgent demand of the international business community to maintain a stable and smooth industrial and supply chain, the CISCE is committed to promoting open cooperation and mutual benefit.

At the first CISCE, 26 percent of exhibitors joining the event are from over 50 countries and regions outside China. In particular, 36 percent of them are American and European companies.

The event includes the opening ceremony of the CISCE and the Global Supply Chain Innovation and Development Forum, six themed forums and side events.

A report on global supply chain promotion and other outcomes were launched, which will help facilitate cooperation between Chinese and foreign companies in different sectors of industrial and supply chains to seize market opportunities, investment opportunities, and growth opportunities.

The CISCE will serve as an important platform for showcasing the industrial and supply chain advantages of Belt and Road countries, and facilitating their integration into the global industrial and supply chains.

Over the past decade since the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was proposed, China has engaged in a series of industrial investment and cooperation projects with other Belt and Road countries, covering various sectors such as agriculture, energy, infrastructure, digital economy, and new energy vehicles. These efforts have effectively promoted the upgrading of industries and optimization of supply chains in these countries, providing significant support for the operation of global industrial and supply chains.

At the first CISCE, nearly half of overseas exhibitors are from Belt and Road countries. As the host of this event, China has also provided assistance to some underdeveloped countries joining the expo, encouraging them to showcase their featured and high-quality products and services, and better integrate into the global value chain to share the achievements of global economic development.

China is both a beneficiary and a defender of global supply chain integration. It is also an active explorer and promoter in building a new global supply chain ecosystem.

The country will unswervingly ensure that the industrial and supply chains are public goods in nature, actively participate in global economic governance, and contribute its wisdom and strength to the development of global industrial and supply chains.

China has repeatedly expressed its stance on strengthening global industrial and supply chain cooperation at multilateral platforms such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the Group of 20, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

In 2022, as the rotating chair of the BRICS, China has promoted an initiative to enhance supply chain cooperation among BRICS countries.

It has also promoted the release of a statement on protecting security, stability and diversification of supply chains, reaffirming its willingness to safeguard the security and stability of international supply chains.

Furthermore, China has hosted the International Forum on Resilient and Stable Industrial and Supply Chains and jointly launched the Initiative of International Cooperation on Resilient and Stable Industrial and Supply Chains with partner countries, including Indonesia, sending a strong message to the international community to deepen global industrial and supply chain cooperation.

It has been proven that “building walls and barriers” and forcefully “decoupling and severing industrial and supply chains” will gain little support. The common aspiration is to jointly build a global industrial and supply chain system that is secure, stable, smooth, efficient, open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial.

The theme of the first CISCE, “Connecting the World for a Shared Future,” mirrors the common aspiration of the international community. China will work hand in hand with all parties to jointly maintain the stability and smooth operation of global industrial and supply chains, and jointly promote economic globalization, to bring the fruits of win-win cooperation to the world.