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Humanitarian minister visits Bayelsa, Delta states

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***Flags off GEEP 2.0, School Feeding

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq has visited Bayelsa and Delta states to commiserate with the governments on the flood disaster which destroyed farmlands, property and livelihoods. 
Her special adviser on media Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement quoted the minister to have indicated that aside from the 12,000 metric tonnes of grains already distributed to states affected by the floods, as approved  by President Muhammadu Buhari,  the federal government, through the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development has also delivered three consignments of food and non-food items to Bayelsa state since July 2022. 

She commended the Bayelsa state government for its support to its people during the initial time of distress, adding that government sympathizes with all the victims and states devastated by the disaster.

“Given the magnitude of the devastation in the State and most parts of the country at large, l wish to inform you that His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari approved the release of 12,000 metric tons of assorted food commodities from National Strategic Reserve for distribution to victims of this flood disaster in the country as a way of assuaging their suffering. 

“In addition, there are relief materials and other interventions that have been provided since July 2022 by NEMA, an Agency under the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs. I wish to also commend Bayelsa State Government for providing support to the flood affected persons and to acknowledge the understanding of the public on the intervention by the Federal and State Governments”.

The Minister also officially rolled out the Home Grown School Feeding Programme with Bayelsa state being the last state to join the programme, as well as the Government Enterprise Empowerment Programme GEEP 2.0

“We are also rolling out the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP 2.0) 
designed for vulnerable and low-income Nigerians who are involved in productive activities but have no access to loans. 

“The  first phase of GEEP programme registered about 8,762 potential beneficiaries  in Bayelsa State across the 8 LGAs after which verification was carried out and about 828 beneficiaries were selected. 

“These selected beneficiaries have under-gone enumeration and today l have come to Roll-Out the programme in the Bayelsa State. Hence, successful beneficiaries of the GEEP proagramme will start receiving credit alerts from Access bank from today by God’s grace”.

In his response, the Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo thanked the Minister for her visit and urged her to give more loans to farmers in the state to assuage their losses to the floods.

“It is better to be late than not come at all. The cause is beyond the state and the country. Man has treated the environment badly and the environment has decided to fight back. We are happy that you have finally come.

“We urge you to increase the number of beneficiaries of the GEEP programme so that more farmers can produce more food, having lost most of their farmlands to flood “.

In the same vein, the Minister also sympathized with the Governor of Delta state, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa on the flooding in the state. 

“On behalf of the Federal Government and the entire Management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, we have come  to commiserate with the Government and good people of Delta  State and to express our sympathy and condolences to you over this unfortunate incident of flood disaster. 

“The Federal government has approved  12,000 tonnes of grains for states affected by floods and out of this, 105 metric tons of maize, 88.7 metric tons of sorghum and 98.7 metric tons of garri are to be distributed to the victims of flood disaster in Delta State.

The Minister also rolled out the GEEP 2.0 programme in Delta state with 4,657 beneficiaries.

“A total of 33,838 potential beneficiaries were registered across 28 LGAs in Delta State after which 11,991 were verified and 4,754 were enumerated. The total number of 4,657 beneficiaries were finally selected to receive disbursement”.

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Jerry Gana calls for value-based leadership at Dr. Steven Achema’s 25th Memorial Anniversary

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***Urges for action on Ajaokuta Steel, agricultural transformation

Former Minister of Information, Professor Jerry Gana, has reiterated the need for value-based leadership in Nigeria while delivering a profound lecture at the 25th Memorial Anniversary of Dr. Steven Makoji Achema (Alapa).
The event, held to honor Dr. Achema’s legacy, drew attention to his contributions as a visionary leader and his enduring impact on Kogi State.
Dr. Achema a great Icon and a statesman had a sterling record of service in his profession as Verternary Medicine practitioner as well as an accomplished politician.
Until his death on 6th November 1999, he was a senior special assistant to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
In his address, Prof. Gana praised Dr. Achema’s leadership qualities, describing him as a man of integrity, resilience, and dedication to the welfare of his people.
“Dr. Achema was a leader who embodied character and competence. He believed in building others and fostering excellence in leadership,” Gana said.
On the Challenges of Leadership in Nigeria, the former minister did not shy away from critiquing the state of leadership in Nigeria. He noted that a lack of integrity and accountability among many leaders has hindered the nation’s progress urging citizens to prioritize these qualities when choosing leaders, stating, “Our leaders must inspire trust and be guided by justice and fairness. The rule of law is non-negotiable for national development.”
Highlighting Dr. Achema’s passion for community development, Prof. Gana recounted his initiatives in agriculture, education, security, and resource-based industries. He emphasized the relevance of these efforts, particularly in unlocking Kogi State’s economic potential.

“Dr. Achema envisioned a Kogi State thriving on its abundant natural resources and agricultural wealth. His dream remains a beacon for the state’s future,” Prof. Gana remarked.

The lecture also proposed the establishment of a leadership institute in Nigeria to cultivate future leaders grounded in ethical values.
Prof. Gana called on citizens to engage actively in governance, stressing that democracy thrives when leaders are held accountable.
Prof. Gana passionately highlighted the potential of the Niger and Benue River Basins in transforming Nigeria’s agriculture.
Addressing the Minister of State for Development, he said, “The key to real agricultural transformation is ensuring the Niger and Benue Basins are fully operational. With year-round farming, Nigeria can feed the entire African continent.”
A significant portion of Prof. Gana’s speech was dedicated to the unfinished Ajaokuta Steel Rolling Mill, recalling Dr. Achema’s relentless advocacy for the project,
Gana urged the current administration to prioritize its completion. “If you finish Ajaokuta, you will not only become a hero but also unlock tremendous industrial and economic potential for Nigeria,” he said.
Prof. Gana underscored Kogi State’s immense natural resource wealth, lamenting the lack of resource-based industries to harness these assets.
He called for immediate efforts to establish industries tied to the state’s mineral base, noting, “Kogi is so wealthy. Resource-based industries could turn Kogi into the richest state in Nigeria. This is an opportunity that must not be wasted.”
Citing Dr. Achema’s passion for education, Gana emphasized its role as a catalyst for societal transformation. “Education is the foundation of progress. When you transform the people through education, they will, in turn, transform society,” he said, encouraging Kogi to build on its historical legacy of educational excellence.

In an emotional appeal, Prof. Gana urged Kogi’s people to foster unity and self-love to drive development. “God loves Kogi, but Kogi must learn to love itself. With your resources, there is no reason for poverty,” he said, adding that unity among citizens is essential for progress.
Prof. Gana’s remarks served as both a tribute to Dr. Achema’s enduring legacy and a call to action for Kogi State and Nigeria at large. “Dr. Achema’s vision lives on. Let us honor him by taking bold steps toward the development he dreamed of for Kogi State and Nigeria,” Gana concluded, earning a standing ovation.

The event was a poignant reminder of Dr. Achema’s contributions and a renewed call for leadership committed to transforming lives and communities.
The event celebrated Dr. Achema’s life and work while offering a roadmap for addressing the challenges of governance in Nigeria. “Dr. Achema’s legacy is a testament to the transformative power of value-based leadership. Let his example inspire us to build a better Nigeria,” Prof. Gana concluded.

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Peter Obi at Late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Burial calls for Reflection on Leadership, Legacy

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Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi,
joined political leaders, industry captains, and Nigerians from all walks of life in Nnewi on Saturday to bid farewell to the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
In an emotional statement, Obi described Ubah’s passing as a “rude shock” and a profound loss to the nation.

Reflecting on Ubah’s life, Obi highlighted his contributions beyond politics. “Senator Ubah contributed to a better society through his not-for-profit organization, which cared for the less privileged by investing in their education, health, and poverty alleviation,” he noted.

Obi emphasized the brevity of life, particularly for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities. “His death should remind us… that we only have a limited time here on earth to serve the people under our care and leave lasting legacies for generations to come,” he said.

Extending condolences to the Ubah family, the Senate, and the people of Anambra South Senatorial District, Obi prayed for God’s comfort and strength during this time of grief. He also called on leaders to honor Ubah’s legacy by prioritizing service and uplifting the lives of those they lead.

As Nigerians mourn the loss of a distinguished leader, Obi’s tribute is a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion, service, and the enduring impact of a life dedicated to others.

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Senator Ifeanyi Ubah Laid to Rest Amidst Tributes

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***Death a Lesson to the Living – Cardinal Okpaleke

The late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah was buried on Friday at his hometown, Umuanukam, Otolo Nnewi, Anambra State, following a solemn funeral service at St. Peter Claver Parish.
His passing drew an outpouring of grief and tributes from dignitaries, clergy, family, and friends.

Cardinal Peter Okpaleke, Bishop of Ekwulobia, described Ubah’s death as a profound lesson for the living, urging everyone to strive to leave an impactful legacy.

“His demise is a lesson to us all,” said the Cardinal during his homily. “We must strive to live a life that will be remembered for good. We must touch lives, make a difference, and leave a lasting legacy.”

The Cardinal highlighted Ubah’s philanthropic acts and unwavering commitment to uplifting others, which he urged attendees to emulate.

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State expressed deep sorrow, recalling his last interaction with the late senator earlier this year.
“I still remember when we met sometime in May, and I asked him if he was nursing an ambition for something. We spoke about his future plans, not realizing this tragedy was ahead,” Soludo lamented.
Former Senator Uche Ekwunife described Ubah as a “rare gem” and a leader whose kindness and dedication to youth development left an indelible mark.
“In you, we saw the true essence of leadership and kindness—not just in titles and positions but in words and deeds,” Ekwunife said, praising his contributions to sports and the empowerment of young people.
Ubah’s impact was evident as mourners, including political figures, clergy, and locals, reflected on his legacy of service, compassion, and excellence. His townsman, Joe Ezeike, remarked, “Ubah’s passing has left a void in the nation’s political landscape, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations.”
The funeral was marked by an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection as attendees paid their final respects to a man remembered for his selflessness, leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a difference.

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