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Nigeria-EU Collaboration On Tech Innovation Promises Economic Growth, Minister Affirms

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The collaboration between the European Union (EU) and the Nigerian government is set to enhance research in technology innovation, advance technological development, and unlock Nigeria’s potential in the tech industry, according to Uche Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology.

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Speaking during the Nigeria-EU Innovation Days held at the Landmark Centre in Lagos, Minister Nnaji, represented by Dr. Matthew Adepoju, Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), emphasized the vital role of technology innovation in driving economic growth.

“The collaboration will bolster capacity building, and the government is committed to providing robust support from stakeholders in the private sector and academia to drive collaboration and innovation,” Nnaji stated.

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Stakeholders at the forum expressed optimism that the EU-Africa Innovation Agenda would be transformative, unlocking Africa’s vast potential in technology.

The two-day event, co-organized by the EU and the Nigerian government, brought together representatives from Nigerian, African, and European research and innovation sectors to explore opportunities in the e-Health, Agritech, and Industry 4.0 ecosystems.

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Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, Minister of Youth Development, highlighted Nigeria’s readiness for a technological revolution.

“Our vision is to harness the power of science, innovation, and technology to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for all Nigerians,” she said in her opening remarks.

Bio-Ibrahim outlined the ministry’s commitment to promoting STEM education, encouraging entrepreneurship and startups, and fostering international collaborations.

“The Nigeria of tomorrow will not only consume technology but also create it. We aim to build a nation that exports ideas and where every child, regardless of background, can become a scientific pioneer. The time for action is now, and the Nigeria-EU Innovation Days should ignite a scientific revolution on African soil,” she added.

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Return LG Funds Or Face Legal Action – SERAP To Governors, Wike

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The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a call to the 36 state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to “immediately account for and return the local government funds they have collected over the years.”

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This demand follows a landmark Supreme Court ruling on Thursday, which declared the practice of state governors and the FCT minister withholding and utilizing funds intended for local governments as unconstitutional.

Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP’s deputy director, praised the Supreme Court’s decision in a statement on Thursday, noting, “We applaud the Supreme Court for this groundbreaking decision which will end the persistent alleged misappropriation of trillions of FAAC allocations or public funds meant for local governments.”

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Oluwadare continued, “Following the Supreme Court judgment, there is now a clear legal precedent to hold governors and the FCT minister accountable for how they have spent the local government funds collected by them.”

He emphasized, “Implicit in the Supreme Court judgment is the requirement for the governors and FCT minister to immediately account for and return the funds meant for local governments but retained and used or allegedly misused by them.”

“Accounting for and returning the LGA funds collected would build trust in democratic institutions and strengthen the rule of law.”

SERAP warned that if the governors and FCT minister do not account for and return the funds meant for local governments within seven days, the organization will consider appropriate legal actions to compel compliance in the public interest.

Highlighting the public interest, SERAP stressed the necessity for transparency and accountability in the handling of local government funds since 1999.

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The organization said, “accounting for and returning the local government funds collected would alleviate poverty, improve access of Nigerians to basic public goods, and enhance the ability of local governments to effectively and efficiently discharge their constitutional and statutory responsibilities.”

SERAP pointed out that the 36 states and the federal capital territory have reportedly collected over N40 trillion in federal allocations intended for the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

Specifically, the Federation Account Allocation Committee disbursed N225.21 billion in federal allocations meant for local governments to states in November 2023, and another N258.81 billion in December 2023.

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The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, had filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Federal Government seeking to grant full autonomy and direct funding to all local government councils in the country.

The 36 state governments, represented by their attorneys general, challenged the Supreme Court’s jurisdiction in this matter.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Federal Government, setting a precedent for the financial autonomy of local governments across Nigeria.

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#EndSars Protest: ECOWAS Court Orders FG To Compensate DJ Switch, Others For Rights Violations

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The Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has mandated the Federal Government of Nigeria to compensate Obianuju Udeh, known as DJ Switch, along with Perpetual Kamsi and Dabiraoluwa Adeyinka, with ₦2 million each.

This ruling is due to violations of their rights during the peaceful End SARS protests at the Lekki Toll Gate in Lagos State on October 20 and 21, 2020.

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The court identified Nigeria’s breach of several provisions under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, including:
– Article 1: Obligation of the state to recognize the rights, duties, and freedoms in the Charter.
– Article 4: Right to life.
– Article 6: Right to liberty and security of person.
– Article 9: Right to receive information and free expression.
– Article 10: Right to free association.
– Article 11: Right to assemble freely.
– Prohibition of torture.
– Duty of the state to investigate and provide effective remedies for rights violations.

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Justice Koroma Sengu, who delivered the judgment, dismissed the specific allegation that the right to life under Article 4 was violated.

However, he affirmed that the Federal Government must comply with its obligations under the African Charter, investigate and prosecute agents responsible for the violations, and report back to the court within six months on the measures taken to implement the judgment.

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Despite the Nigerian government’s denial of all claims and assertion that the protesters unlawfully assembled at the Lekki Toll Gate, the court ruled that the government had indeed violated several articles of the African Charter, resulting in fundamental breaches of human rights.

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‘They Are Mere Noise Makers’ – Fubara Rejects Demand To Re-present 2024 Budget, Insists Defected Lawmakers’ Seats Are Vacant

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Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara announced on Wednesday that his administration is already preparing the 2025 budget, dismissing demands from the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the state House of Assembly to re-present the 2024 budget.

The governor declared that the seats of lawmakers who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) remain vacant.

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During a solidarity visit from leaders, stakeholders, and youth of Etche and Omuma Local Government Areas, Governor Fubara described the demands of the pro-Wike lawmakers as mere “noise-making” from delusional individuals.

He emphasized that his administration is focused on progressing smoothly despite the political tussle.

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The lawmakers loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike have been at odds with Fubara over control of the state.

After a failed attempt to remove the governor, which included the demolition of Assembly quarters, the lawmakers defected to the APC.

The PDP responded by declaring their seats vacant, a move supported by a Rivers State High Court.

However, the Court of Appeal in Abuja reinstated Amaewhule and the other lawmakers on July 4.

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They promptly demanded that Governor Fubara re-present the 2024 budget within a week.

In response, the state government approached the court to prevent the state Chief Judge and others from recognizing the reinstated lawmakers while appealing the Court of Appeal’s decision to the Supreme Court.

Governor Fubara firmly stated that there would be no re-presentation of the 2024 budget.

“We have started preparing the 2025 budget, focusing on education, healthcare, and agriculture,” he said, adding that his administration is committed to addressing these key areas to improve the quality of life in Rivers State.

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He also criticized the defected lawmakers, stating, “they are gone, and they are gone. We are not doing any budget to nullify the decision declaring their seats vacant.”

He assured that the 2025 budget would prioritize education, healthcare, and agriculture to ensure sustainable development and job creation for the youth.

The governor reiterated his commitment to standing by the truth and governing the state with integrity, stressing that loyalty should not compromise one’s principles.

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He urged the people of Etche Nation to continue supporting his administration’s vision for advancing the state’s well-being.

In response to concerns about herdsmen attacks and illegal dredging activities, Fubara promised to collaborate with the Nigeria Police to address these issues.

The Etche and Omuma representatives pledged their support for Fubara’s administration, expressing confidence in his leadership.

Meanwhile, the PDP has warned the Amaewhule faction to desist from actions that could disrupt peace and governance in the state.

The party called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure the security and stability of Rivers State.

The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, asserted that the defected lawmakers are no longer part of the state Assembly under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The party urged Rivers residents to remain vigilant and uphold the law to maintain stability and peace in the state, ensuring the continued delivery of democratic dividends.

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CJN Vows To Address Conflicting Court Orders, Hold Errant Judges Accountable

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Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has condemned the issuance of conflicting judgments by courts of equal jurisdiction.

Speaking on Wednesday, he emphasized that the National Judicial Council (NJC) has begun taking steps to ensure judges involved in such actions face consequences for their “despicable and odious conduct.”

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During the inauguration of 22 Court of Appeal justices and 12 FCT High Court judges in Abuja, Justice Ariwoola criticized the numerous frivolous interlocutory orders from various courts, which he said have undermined the judicial system.

He reminded the newly inaugurated judges of their duty to serve the people impartially, free from personal biases and ulterior motives.

“Judgments should be free from personal sentiments, emotions, or ulterior motives,” he stressed.

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Justice Ariwoola declared, “We have been subjected to an unpalatable cocktail of misleading and conflicting judgments as well as frivolous interlocutory orders from courts of coordinate jurisdictions, which have attempted to mock our judicial system and desecrate the revered Temple of Justice. Several such cases exist across the country, causing significant embarrassment to our jurisprudence. We will not handle this lightly.”

He assured that punitive measures are being implemented to address these issues.

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“We have already activated the process of reining in such errant judges with a view to making them face the consequences of their despicable and odious conduct,” he stated.

The CJN also highlighted that this inauguration marks the largest swearing-in of justices for the Court of Appeal since similar ceremonies on June 28, 2021, and November 5, 2012, which saw the appointment of 18 and 12 justices, respectively.

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FG Moves To Reclaim Interior Ministry’s Ikoyi Property

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The federal government has announced its intention to revoke the sale of residential quarters owned by the Ministry of Interior in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The property in question is the ministry’s Ikoyi liaison residential quarters, which have been occupied by unauthorized individuals.

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In 2020, the Federal Ministry of Justice, under Attorney General Abubakar Malami (SAN), appointed an agent to identify and recover federal properties being misused.

Specific details of the sale, such as the date and buyer, have not been disclosed.

During a tour of ministry facilities in Lagos, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s resolve to reclaim the property.

He stated that a panel would be established to investigate the director who approved the sale of the quarters.

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The minister’s visit included stops at the Federal Marriage Registry, Immigration Service, and Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

During these visits, he hinted at plans to relocate the Ikoyi Correctional Centre from its current location.

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Kwara Throne: Tinubu’s ADC Set To Become Next Elemona Of Ilemona

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Lt. Col. Nurudeen Yusuf, the Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is on the verge of being appointed the next Elemona of Ilemona in Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

Yusuf is set to succeed his father, the late Oba Yusuf Omokanye Oyekanmi, who passed away in May at the age of 95.

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The process for Yusuf’s appointment is awaiting final ratification by the state government.

Senior palace sources and top stakeholders in Oyun have confirmed Yusuf’s selection, expressing the community’s excitement over his potential leadership.

A former council chairman, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that Yusuf has significantly transformed Ilemona, noting, “His interventions are almost daily.

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“He has brought a college of education to the town and repurchased lands sold by his father for the community’s benefit. His impact is evident, which is why all the ruling houses have endorsed him for the throne.”

While Yusuf has yet to officially accept or reject the position, the community remains optimistic.

A government source disclosed, “Yusuf’s name has been selected by the kingmakers and submitted to the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Community Development for the governor’s approval.”

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The commissioner for the ministry, Hon Abdullahi Abubakar Bata, confirmed the ongoing process, stating, “the appointment is still in progress. We have not announced anything yet. Once everything is finalized, I will make an official announcement.”

Yusuf’s extensive background includes a rich educational and military career. After completing an Ordinary National Diploma in Computer Science from Offa Polytechnic in 2000, he graduated from the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical-Electronics). He furthered his military education at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) in the UK.

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In 2006, Yusuf attended the Nigerian Army Intelligence School in Lagos, followed by various military courses in Kaduna, Mali, Pakistan, China, Israel, and the UK. He holds a master’s degree in Defence Studies from King’s College, London, and a postgraduate diploma in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution from the National Open University (NOUN).

Yusuf’s distinguished career includes roles as an officer in charge of Technical for the 119 Intelligence Group in Lagos, Operations Officer at HQ 4 Brigade in Benin, and Officer Commanding at the State House Military Intelligence Group. He served as the Presidential Body Guard Commander in Abuja and held various senior positions within the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps (NAIC).

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With his appointment as Tinubu’s ADC, Yusuf has continued to demonstrate his commitment to service. His potential elevation to the throne of Elemona is seen as a promising development for the community, pending official confirmation.

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VIDEO: Women Affairs Minister, Rep Members Clash Over Alleged N1.5 Billion Diversion

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A heated confrontation occurred between the Minister of Women Affairs, Uju Kennedy-Ohaneye, and members of the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs during a probe into the alleged diversion of N1.5 billion intended for contractor payments.

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The probe, chaired by Kafilat Ogbara, was initiated after contractors submitted a petition claiming they had not been paid for completed projects.

The committee sought explanations for the alleged diversion and scrutinized various expenditures, including funds allocated to the African First Ladies Mission project and N45 million spent on a New Year party for children.

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During the session, tensions escalated, resulting in a deadlock as both sides engaged in intense arguments.

Chairperson Ogbara emphasized that the investigation aimed to ensure accountability and proper use of funds, stating, “we must work together to identify and address any instances of misappropriation, non-execution of contracts, or breaches of the Procurement Act.”

Minister Kennedy-Ohaneye defended her ministry, attributing the issue to a lack of funds. She stated, “Even the contracts awarded during my tenure have not been paid. We are underfunded and do not have the necessary funds.”

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The confrontation intensified as committee members pressed the minister for answers.

The session was ultimately adjourned indefinitely by Ogbara, who declared, “I cannot allow the honourable minister to insult any member of this committee. We are adjourning sine die, and I hope that when we reconvene, the minister and her team will conduct themselves appropriately.”

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BREAKING: Supreme Court Grants Full Autonomy To Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas

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Nigeria’s apex Court, the Supreme Court has granted full financial autonomy to the 774 local government areas (LGAs) across the country.

This decision was delivered by a seven-man panel of Supreme Court Justices, led by Justice Garba Lawal.

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The judgment stemmed from a suit, marked SC/CV/343/2024, which was initially heard on June 13, 2024.

The suit was filed by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who argued for direct fund allocation to LGAs, bypassing the state governments.

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Fagbemi contended that funds allocated to LGAs were being mismanaged by caretaker committees appointed by state governors, rather than being utilized by elected local government officials.

He requested that the Supreme Court mandate direct funding to LGAs to ensure financial autonomy.

The 36 state governors, represented by their attorneys general, opposed the suit, arguing that the Supreme Court lacked jurisdiction over the matter and raising other legal objections.

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Delivering it’s judgment on Thursday, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of granting full financial autonomy to the LGAs, recognizing them as an independent tier of government within the Nigerian federation.

This ruling marks a significant shift in the governance structure of Nigeria, aiming to enhance local government efficiency and accountability.

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Pressure Mounts On FG To Release Nnamdi Kanu

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Pressure is increasing on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to release Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who has been detained by the federal government since June 2021.

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Government sources suggest that Kanu’s release might be imminent, though the terms remain unclear.

The presidency has declined to officially comment on the matter, but insiders acknowledge the right of South-East leaders to request the president’s intervention.

Political leaders from the South-East have ramped up their efforts to secure Kanu’s release in recent weeks, holding numerous meetings and making public appeals.

This push has transcended party lines, uniting legislators and chief executives from the five states in the region, who seek a political solution to the crisis that has caused economic and social turmoil.

The situation in the South-East has been dire, with the IPOB’s Monday sit-at-home order, enforced by its paramilitary wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), resulting in significant disruption and loss of life.

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The federal government, through the Attorney General’s office, has remained tight-lipped about its plans, citing the subjudice nature of the case.

However, it is reported that the governors of the five South-East states will soon meet with the president to formally present their resolution.

On July 2, the South-East governors, including Hope Uzodinma of Imo, Alex Otti of Abia, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, and host Peter Mbah of Enugu, resolved to engage with the federal government to secure Kanu’s release.

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Following this meeting, the South-East Caucus of the Senate, led by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, met with the Attorney General to plead for Kanu’s release.

They also submitted a letter to President Tinubu, emphasizing that Kanu’s release is crucial to restoring stability in the region.

Senator Abaribe, who has previously acted as Kanu’s surety, expressed optimism that releasing Kanu would defuse the tension that has gripped the South-East since his detention.

The South-East Caucus in the House of Representatives echoed this sentiment, issuing a statement supported by 43 lawmakers advocating for Kanu’s release as a means to achieve peace.

Furthermore, Obi Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency, has been actively seeking support for Kanu’s release, including a visit to former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Aguocha emphasized the importance of a political resolution and Kanu’s potential positive contributions to national unity and development.

Aguocha’s efforts are part of a broader appeal by 50 House of Representatives members to President Tinubu, urging the Attorney General to explore legal avenues for Kanu’s release.

Despite these efforts, the Attorney General’s office maintains that commenting on the matter would be inappropriate due to its ongoing legal status.

Constitutional lawyer, Professor Auwalu Yadudu suggested that the government could consider a nolle prosequi, or discontinuation of the trial, contingent on commitments from South-East leaders.

Professor Seyi Akinseye-George (SAN) also advocated for an out-of-court settlement with clear conditions to ensure compliance, while Barrister Chukwudi Igwe highlighted the legal mechanisms available to the President through the Attorney General to withdraw the charges against Kanu.

The collective hope is that these efforts will lead to Kanu’s release and a subsequent easing of the region’s ongoing crises.

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