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Gov. Ugwuanyi Puts Ink On Paper, N103.5b 2018 Budget is Signed
Today, Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State, signed into law the N103.5 billion 2018 budget recently passed by the House of Assembly.
This, the Governor did with a firm promise to fully implement the appropriation law for the benefit of the people and rapid and sustainable development of the state.
Signing the budget at the Government House, Enugu, in the presence of his Deputy, Mrs. Cecilia Ezeilo and other members of the State Executive Council; members of the House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi; State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani, among other top government functionaries, Gov. Ugwuanyi noted that the House after due deliberation on the budget and consideration of the defence by the various ministries, MDAs, Parastatals and all concerned with the budget, increased the budget size from N98,563,500,000 to N103,563,500,000.
The governor commended the members of the House for the speedy and considerate passage of the budget and the “wonderful” cooperation they have accorded the state government since inception.
He also expressed appreciation to the people of the state, who he described as the true heroes of democracy, for the opportunity to serve and their “unwavering” support and prayers for his administration, reassuring them that his promise to deliver good governance and selfless service to the state remains sacrosanct.
“Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I equally wish to assure you of our commitment to the full implementation of this budget as we are fully aware that this will enable us realize all the objectives that we have set down in it for the benefit of our people and for the rapid and sustainable development of our dear state”, Gov. Ugwuanyi said.
Earlier in his remark, the Speaker commended Gov. Ugwuanyi for the modest budget, which he said reduced both the internal and external borrowing to 16 percent, describing the governor as a good manager of finance.
Rt. Hon. Ubosi, who stated that the budget will not put the state in “a very tight condition” and “cannot hang any debt on us”, also explained that the appropriation law was increased by N5 billion to accommodate road projects that need urgent attention such as the Nkalagu-Eha-Amufu federal road at Isi-Uzo Local Government Area and other roads across the three senatorial districts of the state.
He also applauded the state’s Board of Internal Revenue led by Prince Emeka Odo for its innovation and resourcefulness in generating income for the state saying: “They are trying in reducing the stress on the state”.
The Speaker equally appreciated members of the State Executive Council, especially the commissioners for their “wonderful” cooperation and support during the budget defence, stressing the synergy was unprecedented and commendable.
While disclosing that the House made minor adjustments in the budget, Ubosi assured that the House in the course of its oversight function will monitor the implementation to the letter.
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APRA Decries Terror Attack in Burkina Faso
… Spread of mpox in DRC and the frightening flooding in Sudan
The African Public Relations Association (APRA) has condemned the recent terror attack in the Burkinabe town of Barsalogho in the Sanmatenga Province of the Republic, which has killed so many people and injured scores of persons.
In a statement on Friday, signed by Dr. Omoniyi Ibietan, secretary-general, APRA, the body said it is greatly concerned about the increasing terror attacks in Burkina Faso and in other parts of Africa.
“The umbrella body of practitioners and professionals of public relations in Africa hereby calls for the cessation of all forms of attacks, especially on unarmed people. We call for dialogue as a more civil approach to resolving conflicts instead of violent attacks leading to destruction and catastrophic outcomes that leave the continent more devastated.
“We are gravely disturbed by this recent attack in Burkina Faso, coming on the heels of the death of over 500 persons due to mpox scourge caused by the monkeypox virus ravaging the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, the hotbed of the health crisis; and the distressing floods caused by the collapse of the Arba’ at Dam in the east of the Republic of Sudan, destroying or impacting about 70 communities and affecting telecommunication infrastructure and other utilities. These and many emergent humanitarian crises in Africa have been overwhelming enough for a great but challenged continent. Therefore, entrenched terror attacks can only worsen efforts at restoring the glory of the continent.
“As a body of communication managers, APRA iterates its call for increased, sincere and responsible conversation and concrete actions among state actors and other stakeholders in Africa to address these and future challenges, many of which are heralded by warning signs. Therefore, APRA calls on the World Health Organisation (WHO) to resume strengthening collaboration with the government and people of DRC because mpox is yet to be defeated as an existential global health issue.
APRA stands in solidarity with the Governments and people of Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republic of Sudan. We commiserate with those who have lost family members and friends. We also wish those injured and displaced speedy recovery.
News
NNPC Launches Vision First Programme in Ilaje Community, Lagos
… Over 1,000 Individuals Receive Free Eye-care Services
The NNPC Ltd has flagged off the third edition of the Vision First Programme, as part of comprehensive community-focused healthcare outreach targeted at the Ilaje community and its environs in Bariga, Lagos State.
The Vision First programme is a continuation of NNPC Ltd/ SNEPCo Production Sharing Contract (PSC) commitment to advancing health and well-being within its host communities. Through this initiative, over 1,000 individuals will receive free eye care services, alongside a range of general healthcare provisions. The services include cardiovascular screening, BMI assessments, laboratory services, consultations, treatment of mild and chronic diseases, and distribution of insecticide-treated nets.
Since its inception, the Vision First programme has made a significant impact, with over 1,853 individuals benefiting from free eye care services. The Lagos edition, which began in 2022, has screened 2,000 people, provided 1,199 prescription glasses, administered medication to 1,310 beneficiaries, and facilitated successful procedures for 189 individuals.
The initiative is also aligned with the Mallam Mele Kyari-led Management commitment of making positive impact in NNPC Ltd’s host communities and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians through sustainable partnerships.
In his remarks, the Chief Upstream Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (CUIO – NUIMS), Mr. Bala Wunti stated that the Vision First Plus programme represents a commitment to restoring hope and improving lives within NNPC Ltd commour communities.
“Through this programme, we aim to ensure that preventable vision challenges do not hold anyone back. By providing eye screenings, corrective lenses, surgeries, and general healthcare, we’re dedicated to bringing clarity and brighter futures to those who need it most,” Wunti, who was represented by Mrs. Bunmi Lawson, added.
The outreach emphasized the significance of proactive health management, highlighting that healthy eyes lead to a brighter future. Attendees were encouraged to protect their vision through regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and adequate rest.
The Vision First programme embodies the spirit of collaboration and the essence of giving back to the communities where NNPC Ltd operates. It also signifies the Company’s commitment to investing in social initiatives that leave a lasting positive impact.
News
Bashir Hadeija: More Revelations, Panic as Fingered Elements Embark on Attack of High Profile Government Officials
By: Staff Writer
The sponsors of malicious allegations and attacks on the Minister of Defense, Dr Bello Matawalle, the Director General of DSS, Mr. Yusuf Magaji Bichi, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the IG of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and other top government officials, are on it again.
Commenting on the matter, Habib Ahmed, a Public Analyst, believes they are circulating spurious write up through an unknown and faceless group to attack top government functionaries, “this is orchestrated by the arrest of one Bashir Hadeija who they collaborate with and also use him to propagate false and nefarious information.
“This Bashir Hadeija uses all sorts of deceitful ways including name dropping to manipulate the public.
Since the arrest of Bashir Hadeija and the revelations he is making, certain individuals are jittery because investigation is closing in on them.
“Zamfara State Governor, former NSA , Defence minister and others who are sponsoring Bashir Hadeija have embarked on campaign of calumny against Dr Matawalle, IGP, NSA , DG DSS and other credible top government officials.
“Dr Matawalle does not have need to smear the image of any one as he is busy with efforts to enhance national security.
“Bashir Hadeija and his cohorts who have been found with Gold with the inscription of former late Libyan leader whose street value is unimaginable. Bashir Hadeija is an international crook who has been caught up by wrath of the law is capable of subversive activities.
“Arrest of Bashir Hadeija has triggered more reactions and thank God that Bashir Hadeija mentioned the names of Zamfara Governor, Ali Gusau, Badaru and as a result of this, they have started attacks on Matawalle, Nuhu Ribadu, DG DSS and IGP but this should not deter them in ensuring that justice is done.
“The anticipated attacks from the named accomplices of Bashir Hadeija against high profile Nigerians should be ignored. A person who stole Gold from Libya can say anything to anybody. The public should ignore them”, Habib Ahmed, said.
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