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L-R: An Editor with the FRCN, Alhaji Abdulhamib Mariya, the station Manager, Freedom Radio, Dutse, Adamu Ladan and Editor-In-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Alhaji Lawal Ado, during a courtesy visit by Nigerian Guild of Editors to Governor Aminu Tambuwal in Sokoto on Friday.

L-R: An Editor with the FRCN, Alhaji Abdulhamib Mariya, the station Manager, Freedom Radio, Dutse, Adamu Ladan and Editor-In-Chief, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Alhaji Lawal Ado, during a courtesy visit by Nigerian Guild of Editors to Governor Aminu Tambuwal in Sokoto on Friday.

FCT
A Kado Grade 1 Area Court, Abuja, yesterday sentenced
two men, Ali Idris and Shamsu Ibrahim, to one month imprisonment each for stealing a generator tank.
The convicts, who both reside at Jabi Motor Park, Abuja, had pleaded guilty to the charge.
The Judge, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq, said the sentence would serve as a deterrent to others.
Sadiq, however, gave them an option of N5, 000 fine each.
Earlier, the prosecutor, Insp. Simon Ibrahim, told the court that a police patrol team from Utako Police Station, Abuja, arrested and brought the accused to the station on July 20 for stealing the generator tank.
Jigawa
Jigawa State Governor, Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa on
Tuesday said his administration had taken measures to address the shortage of 4, 500 teachers in primary and secondary schools in the state.
Badaru told members of the All Nigeria Conference of Principals (ANCOPs) who paid him a courtesy visit in Dutse, that he had engaged a consultant to recruit qualified teachers to bridge existing gap.
He also said that the administration would introduce a new technology to enhance teachings and learning in the state.
Badru said that his government would also give enough incentives to teachers to motivate them to deliver quality teaching to students.
He said the government had approved payment of its 2013 counterpart fund to the National Basic Education Commission, to enable it access vital funds for schools expansion and provision of furniture.
Kaduna
Stakeholders in child protection are to embark on massive
awareness campaign as part of efforts to push for the domestication of the Child Rights Acts in Kaduna State, an official has said.
Acting Director, Social Welfare and Child Development, Kaduna State Ministry of Women Affairs, Mr Ibrahim Musa,  discused this to newsmen  in Kaduna on Tuesday.
Musa said that several residents of the state were still not aware of the contents of the Acts and the need for its domestication at the state level after the National Assembly did it in 2003.
According to him, the awareness campaign has become necessary to enlighten the public about the contents and gains of the acts following increasing rate of child abuse in the state.
Musa said the enlightenment campaign would be done using media outfits, churches, mosques, community-based organisations and town-hall meetings.
The director said that the stakeholders would also carry out advocacy visits to relevant faith–based institutions, traditional rulers and government bodies, to seek their support.
Kebbi
The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Kebbi State
yesterday dismissed the petition filed by the PDP governorship candidate, retired Gen. Bello Sarkin-Yaki, challenging the election of Governor Atiku Bagudu.
Bagudu of the APC was returned elected as governor of the state by INEC at the April 2015 general election.
The Chairman of the tribunal, Justice Kazem Alogba, who delivered the verdict in Birnin Kebbi, said the petitioner failed to adhere to the process of filing a petition.
He averred that the petitioner abandoned the petition by filing for a free hearing notice behind time.
Counsel to the petitioner, Mr Ibrahim Mohammed, however, objected to the decision of the tribunal, stressing that an appeal would be filed at the Court of Appeal in Sokoto.
Kogi
The Nigerian Association of Hospital and Administrative
Pharmacists, yesterday in Lokoja expressed concern over the poor rating of Nigeria’s health system by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
According to the association, WHO in its recent report placed Nigeria in the 187 position out of 190 countries in its rating of global health systems.
The association, in a communiqué signed by its National Secretary, Mr Abdullahi Ndah-Ameh, suggested a multifaceted approach involving all health professionals to change the trend.
It said that improvement of health indices in Nigeria remains a collective agenda requiring holistic approach anchored on the triple framework of people, process and structure.
The association reiterated that pharmacists remained an integral and indispensable professional group in the delivery of quality healthcare to patients in Nigeria.
It frowned at the“ irrational use of drugs” in the country which had resulted in avoidable morbidity and mortality.
Kwara
The Zonal Transport Officer (ZTSO), Federal Road Safety Com
mission (FRSC), Ilorin Zonal Headquarters, Mr Godwin Zawua,  has urged religious leaders to allow staff of his commission deliver lectures on road safety in mosques and churches.
Zawua made the request in Ilorin yesterday in his speech at the meeting of the Senate of Catholic Priests of Ilorin Diocese.
He said such enlightenment lectures could help in the effort at reducing carnage on the highways.
He said FRSC was also ready to assist in the training and retraining of students, priests and clergies at seminaries and theology schools.
He thanked the Catholic Priests Dioceses in Ilorin for giving him the opportunity to talk to them on road safety precautions.
Lagos
An Ebute Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos State on Tues
day ordered the remand in Ikoyi Prisons of an alleged cult-member charged with the murder of Femi Egbekunle and Saliu Maja- during a street-fight.
The accused, Gbenga Shodiya, whose address was not disclosed, is facing a three-count charge bordering on murder and unlawful killing before Magistrate O.O.A. Fowowe-Erusiafe.
Fowowe-Erusiafe ordered that the accused be remanded at the Ikoyi Prisons for 30 days pending the receipt of legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPs).
She also directed the prosecutor to duplicate the case file to be forwarded to the DPPs for legal advice saying the court lacked the jurisdiction to prosecute murder cases.
Nasarawa
The Chairman, Wamba Local Government Council of Nasarawa
State, Alhaji Musa Shuaibu-Wayo, has called for 24 hours security surveillance in the area to check incessant robbery attacks on communities.
Shuaibu-Wayo made the appeal yesterday while briefing newsmen after the joint security and peace meeting of the area in Wamba.
He said that the strategy would curtail the activities of men of the underworld so as to enable the people of the area sleep with their two eyes closed as well as to go about their normal business without fear of attack.
“The aim of this joint security and peace meeting is to brainstorm on ways or how to ensure peace in this local government and the state at large because no nation or society can develop in an atmosphere of rancour, confusion and security challenges.
“The security challenges facing our area, the state and some parts of the country had not only affected our lives negatively but had also affected the socio-economic development of the country negatively.
Niger
A Minna Magistrates’ Court yesterday ordered the remand in
prison custody of a man, Samaila Umar, for allegedly committing rape.
The accused was arraigned in court on a 6-count charge of conspiracy, armed robbery, rape, mischief, resisting arrest and causing grievous hurt.
The Police Prosecutor, Insp. Daniel Ikwoche, told the court that one Isiaku Abubakar reported the matter at the Lapai Divisional Police station on July 21.
Ikwoche said that the complainant alleged that he was on his way to Lapai from Minna, with a girl, when the accused and four others, now at large, attacked him at a point between Takuti and Cheche villages with gun, cutlass and sticks.
He said the complainant further alleged that the suspect had carnal knowledge of the girl, and robbed them of N256, 000 as well as other valuables.
Ogun
A 30-year-old female sales representative, Adeola Salami, was
yesterday arraigned before an Abeokuta Chief Magistrates’ Court for alleged theft of N2.6 million, property of King’s Court Ideal Anchor Ltd.
According to the prosecutor, Insp. Sunday Eigbejiale, the accused committed the offence on June 20 at King’s Court Anchor Ltd, Ibara in Abeokuta.
He said that the accused, who was an employee of King’s Court Ideal Anchor Ltd., sold an assortment of recharge cards worth N2.6million.
The prosecutor submitted that the offences contravened Sections 383 (2) and 390 (6) of the Criminal Laws of Ogun, 2006.
The accused, who pleaded not guilty to a two-count charge of fraudulent conversion and theft, was represented by Olokede Obadina.
Oyo
An Iyaganku Senior Magistrates’ Court sitting at Iyaganku yes
terday sentenced a scavenger, Saudiq Olatunji,18, to 23 days imprisonment for stealing 56 pieces of casted iron rods from an uncompleted building.
The Senior Magistrate, Mrs Patricia Adetuyibi, who handed down the judgment, said Olatunji should serve the term with hard labour.
Adetuyibi said that the sentence would serve as a deterrent to other scavengers who steal in the guise of scavenging.
Olatunji was arraigned before the magistrate on a one-count charge of stealing.
Our correspondent reports that the convict was arraigned on July 22 and had pleaded not guilty to the crime.
Plateau
The police on yesterday arraigned two mechanics, Shuaibu Saleh,
23, and Abubakar Mohammed, 25, in a Jos Chief Magistrates’ Court for allegedly stealing a car.
The accused persons, both of Bauchi Road, Jos, were charged with criminal conspiracy and theft.
The prosecutor, Sgt. Thomas Ahmadu, told the court that one Francis Nimyel of Abbattior Jos, reported the matter at the A Division Police Station on July 29.
Ahmadu said that on the same date, the complainant alighted from his car to see a friend at the Old Bukuru Park, when the accused persons attacked him and made away with his Toyota Camry car valued at N950, 000.
He said that the accused also stole Nimyel’s wallet which contained N20, 000, three ATM cards, driver’s licence and two cell phones valued at N23, 000.
Taraba
Some residents of Jalingo yesterday urged the police to intensify
surveillance against fraudsters operating in Taraba State.
They told newsmen in Jalingo that increase in the activities of the fraudsters was a matter of great concern to the populace.
Alhaji Saidu Abdullahi, who lost N15,000 to two fraudsters on Friday, said they posed as estate agents, collected his money and vanished after promising him a two-bedroom flat.
Another victim, Miss Rifkatu Adda, claimed that she surrendered N9, 000 to a fraudster in Dorawa area of the town after she was hypnotised on Sunday.
The state correspondent of the Nigerian Tribune Newspaper, Mr Sylvanus Viashami, was however lucky to escape the antics of a fraudsters who called his cell phone.
Our correspondent gathered from victims that the fraudsters mostly operate around Mile Six, Sintali and Duwala market areas of Jalingo.

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VCDF in Partnership with LAWMA & Iru LCDA Conducts ‘Street Hygiene & Cleanliness’ Campaign in Lagos

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Living healthy lives can be enabled by embracing and maintaining cleanliness in our urban surroundings, we not only enhance the hygiene of our streets and drains but also contribute to mitigating the adverse effects of pollution and promoting a sustainable future for generations to come.

On April 6th, 2024, a community-driven initiative took to the streets of Victoria Island, Lagos, in a concerted effort to combat littering, blocked drains, thereby reducing flooding and the deteriorating cleanliness of the neighborhood. The Street Hygiene and Cleanliness Campaign, organized by the Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO), Iru-Victoria Island LCDA and Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) saw an impressive turnout of volunteers and stakeholders determined to make a tangible difference in their environment.

The campaign aimed to promote cleanliness and environmental sustainability in Victoria Island, addressing issues like littering, improper waste disposal and consequent flooding. By providing donations of sanitation tools like rakes, pickers, brooms, and bin bags as well as personal protective equipment like coveralls and gloves, VCDF inspired volunteers and stakeholders to take proactive steps to stop the spread of disease, build community pride, and maintain a clean environment.

The dignitaries present at the event were Princess (Hon.) Rasheedat Abiodun Adu, Executive Chairperson, Iru-Victoria Island LCDA; Mrs. Ogabi Adetokunbo, Council Manager; Mr. S.O. Omoteji, Head of Human Resources, Mr. Odu Olufemi, Head of the Environment, all from Iru Victoria Island LCDA; Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan, Head of Corporate Engagement, Mr. Ebenezer Otubu, Deputy Head, Street Sanitation Services and Mr. Gbenga Adebayo Fagbola, Regional Manager, Lagos East 1, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

Beyond the immediate benefits of an immaculate surrounding, it has encouraged a culture of social responsibility among the workforce and promoted community unity.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Odu Olufemi said, ‘the VCDF initiative is praiseworthy, and maintaining effective sanitation practices is essential for ensuring a healthier Lagos State through recycling materials, segregating waste, desilting drainage systems, and clearing sidewalks for safety and easy access.’

Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan expressed, ‘together, we are not only cleaning streets but also spreading awareness about the value of environmental stewardship for a better tomorrow.’

VCDF is dedicated to embracing sustainability to protect healthy habitats and foster a culture of social responsibility, ensuring the welfare of current and future generations.

By coming together to tackle environmental challenges, residents and stakeholders demonstrated their commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant neighborhood for all.

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VCDF in Partnership with LDSVA Sensitise Women on Gender Equality, Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship

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Women, the pillars of our society, are resilient and determined as they play essential roles in nurturing families and leading businesses. Despite facing challenges like limited financial resources and unequal opportunities, they persist, inspiring generations and driving positive change.

In honour of Women’s History Month, Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in collaboration with Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO) and the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LDSVA), embarked on a transformative journey to empower 100 community women, focusing on sexual and domestic violence prevention, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship, on March 27, 2024, in Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State.

When women are empowered, they become catalysts for progress, influencing not only their own lives but also the lives of their families and those around them. The programme gave the women the opportunity to acquire knowledge on tools that can help their businesses grow, also providing a safe space for women to learn and connect with others, making them feel more confident and capable in making decisions for their businesses.

Distinguished guests present at the event were Mrs. Bello Oluwakemi, Head of the Field Operations Department, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (LDSVA), Chief Mrs. Eletu-Odibo Wasilat, Community Development Committee Chairman of Eti-Osa LGA, Lagos State, and Mrs. Adenike Akintoye, Head of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Unit, Eti Osa LGA.

While giving her feedback, Chief Mrs. Eletu-Odibo Wasilat said, “community-driven efforts like this initiative are instrumental in driving sustainable change and enabling women to realise their full potential.”

Mrs. Bello Oluwakemi noted during her closing remark, “training women in our communities will improve their livelihoods and contribute to household income, thereby leading to better standards of living.”

This collaborative initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – Gender Equality (SDG 5) and Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), which aim to ensure everyone is treated equally and reduce differences between people.

VCDF will continue to educate and empower women for a greater inclusion in society, supporting their advancement and ensuring their meaningful participation in all spheres of life. Together, let us continue to champion the cause of women, celebrate their achievements, and pave the way for a brighter and more equitable future for all.

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Ibom Developers Supports 160 Women with Skill Acquisition Training in Akwa Ibom

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Empowering women with vocational skills is a vital step towards fostering gender equality and inclusive growth in society. This effort involves equipping women with practical expertise that can be applied across various aspects of life, including professional, personal, and entrepreneurial settings. Ibom Developers’ recent initiatives to provide skill acquisition training to women in its host communities aim to help them thrive in society.

On April 8, 2024, Ibom Developers commenced its ongoing skill acquisition training programme, themed ‘Virtuous Women’ in Egwenwe and Okoroinyong communities.
Dignitaries, including His Royal Highness Chief Johnson J. Osiba (Ijongo IV), the Okaama of Egwenwe Community; Mr. Warribo Isaiah, Community Development Chairman, Egwenwe Community; Pastor Johnson Christian Ubulom, Youth President, Egwenwe Community; Mrs. Catherine Monday Ogbofork, Women Leader of Egwenwe Community; Mrs. Sarah Evans Nfeija, Health Officer, Egwenwe Community; and representatives from Okoroinyong community, were present at the inaugural event.

This skill acquisition programme aims to empower 160 women in these communities with expertise in catering, packaging, hairdressing, wigging, ventilation, and styling. The program took place from April 8 to April 20, 2024, at Egwenwe Town Hall and Okoroinyong Town Hall in Eastern Obolo LGA, Akwa Ibom State, imparting essential entrepreneurial skills to the women in the communities.

During the inaugural event, Chief Johnson J. Osiba (Ijongo IV), the Okaama of Egwenwe Community, expressed, ‘‘This empowerment initiative will provide our women with the autonomy and decision-making power they need to become self-sufficient contributors to the growth and development of our community.’’

The participation of women in several economic activities makes their upliftment a potent strategy for economic growth. Their involvement expands the workforce, cultivating heightened innovation and efficiency within the community.

Mrs. Catherine Monday Ogbofork, Women Leader of Egwenwe Community, emphasised, “Access to training tailored to the needs of women allow them to develop specialised skills. I am glad that this programme has offered options that suit our women’s preferences and goals.’’

Acquiring skills for livelihood elevates family status and unlocks entrepreneurial avenues. Ibom Developers is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship among women and supporting socio-economic empowerment in local communities.

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