IG suspends E-Motor registry enforcement

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

 

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has suspended the enforcement of electronic central motor registry registration for vehicle owners in the country.

The Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, had on Saturday said the IG ordered that the enforcement of the e-CMR should commence on July 29.

The enforcement order sparked an outcry from Nigerians, who accused the police of creating an opportunity to extort vehicle owners.

Also, the chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law, John Aikpokpo-Martins, said the directive by Egbetokun to begin enforcing the digitised Central Motor Registry was a blatant disregard for the rule of law.

But in a statement on Sunday, Adejobi announced that the IG has suspended the enforcement of the e-CMR.

He added that there was the need to sensitise the citizens on the initiative, which he said was designed to secure vehicles.

He said, “Following the reconfiguration and commencement of the electronic central motor registry registration process the Police have deemed it necessary to highlight the benefits and effectiveness of the e-CMR initiative which is designed to ensure the safety and security of all types of vehicles including motorcycles by collating data imputed into the system by vehicle owners and acting on such to flag the vehicles if reported stolen.

“The e-CMR will provide a firsthand database to the Force for curbing vehicular crimes as dedicated officers can access real-time comprehensive data of every vehicle on their tablets.

“Similarly, the e-CMR will prevent multiple registrations of vehicles and serve as a database to collate biometric and other data of vehicle owners and individuals, adding value to the national database and incident report portal generated from other Ministries, Departments and Agencies towards general security.”

Adejobi denied that the e-CMR was a revenue-generating platform.

He said, “Furthermore, contrary to news making the rounds and insinuations about the e-CMR, the NPF wishes to state categorically that the e-CMR is not a revenue-generating platform but an initiative to digitalize policing for effectiveness and general safety of lives and property of Nigeria residents. “

Adejobi said the IG ordered the immediate suspension he had earlier given.

He stated, “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has ordered an immediate suspension of the proposed enforcement of the e-CMR initially scheduled to commence on the 29th of July, 2024.

This is to give ample opportunity for mass enlightenment and education of all citizens and residents on the process, benefits and effectiveness in solving the challenge of vehicle-related crimes, and protection of individual and corporate vehicle ownership.”

Adejobi sought the understanding of the citizens and key into the initiative.

He warned police officers to stop requesting the e-CMR certificate from vehicle owners, adding that anyone caught would be punished.

Adejobi added, “ In light of this, we seek the understanding and support of all well-meaning Nigerians and residents to key into the e-CMR system. In the same vein, the IGP charges all Police officers to desist from requesting e-CMR certificates as individuals found extorting or exploiting members of the public on the guise of not having e-CMR certificates will be sanctioned accordingly as the enforcement which will be done by only dedicated officers has been suspended till further notice”

STI collaborates with NCRIB on insurance awareness

CAPTION

L-: Femi Oduwole, MD, Leverage Insurance Brokers, Tope Adaramola, Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, NCRIB and Prince Babatunde Oguntade, NCRIB, flanked by members of staff of Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc at the 2024 NCRIB Market Storm held in Lagos on June 27, 2024

 

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc (STI) has partnered with the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) to boost insurance awareness in the country.

STI was one of the partnering companies that facilitated the insurance outreach programme at the market level in Lagos.

The initiative was geared towards creating more awareness on insurance products and services to the general public, while at the same time emphasizing on the role of brokers in transacting insurance business.

Dangote contains fire outbreak, says no injury, no death recorded

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

Dangote contains fire, says no injury, no death recorded

Dangote Refinery  has said that it has been able to contained minor fire at its effluent treatment plant which fire outbreak started  today, Wednesday.

The image make of Dangote Group, Mr Anthony Chiejina in a statement this afternoon affirmed, “We have swiftly contained a minor fire incident at our effluent treatment plant (ETP), today Wednesday, 26th June.

“There is no cause for alarm as the refinery is operating and there is no recorded injury or body harm to all our staff on duty.”

The refinery which is the world’s largest single-train refinery is owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.

Ministry working for early release of funds 2024 Olympics- Sport Minister

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh has announced plans to ensure the early release of funds in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, underscoring the ministry’s commitment to supporting Nigerian athletes on the world stage.

Senator Enoh emphasized the importance of securing funding in a timely manner to facilitate comprehensive preparations for the Olympic Games. He added that the ministry will actively pursue partnerships with private individuals and the corporate sector to bolster financial support and ensure that athletes are set up for success.

Drawing from the successful model implemented during the African Games, where all athletes were insured, Senator Enoh affirmed the ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Olympians. Plans are underway to provide insurance coverage for Team Nigeria athletes to mitigate risks associated with injuries and unforeseen circumstances, reflecting a proactive approach to athlete welfare.

Highlighting the ministry’s dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a conducive environment for athletic excellence, Senator Enoh announced plans to implement salaries for grade A athletes. This initiative aims to provide ongoing support and motivation to athletes as they prepare for the Games, enabling them to focus on their training and performance without financial constraints.

Senator Enoh expressed confidence in Nigeria’s athletes and their potential to achieve success at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. By prioritizing early funding, strengthening partnerships, and enhancing athlete support mechanisms, the Ministry of Sports Development expressed commitment to Nigerian athletes to shine on the global stage.

Nyerhovwo God’stime Umokoro wins best NBA Awards

By Favour Nnabugwu
A young man from Delta State by name
Nyerhovwo Godstime Umukoro won  nine (9) awards including the best graduating student at the Nigerian law school & the Nigerian Bar association award for best overall male student of the year 2024.
This young Deltan from Ogor in Ughelli North LGA on his Linkin wrote: “I got called to the Nigerian Bar today. I finished as the Best Graduating Male Student as well as the 2nd Best Graduating Student Overall.
“I also won prizes as the best student in Property Law, Corporate Law Practice and Civil Litigation. Those are the headlines, but as you can imagine, the journey was meandered, and filled with ups and downs.
As I struck my pen on those answer sheets in the month of November, I felt something like this could happen. I really did, just like the straight As in WAEC in ‘16 and the two IGCSE awards in ‘17, you tend to just feel these things.
“I assure you, a lot of things can go wrong in a law school year, and your effort and/or brilliance may count for little, but God helped to make it all come good. All gratitude goes to God, my family, friends and everyone really who helped during this journey right from the beginning.

Other awards won by Nyerhovwo Godstime Umukoro Esq are:

Sir Darnley Alexander K.B.E award for the Best Student in Property Law.

Justice Olujide Shomolu award for the Best Student in Civil Litigation.

Justice Irikefe, GCON award for the Best Student in Corporate Law Practice

Nyerhovwo’s academic excellence also includes a Cambridge outstanding learner award in 2015, an A1 in all 9 WAEC subjects in 2016, First Class Honors Bachelor’s degree in Law with a CGPA of 4.92 from Benson Idahosa University and a First Class Honors from the Nigerian Law School.

President Tinubu orders re-opening Niger Republic border, lifts other sanctions

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate re-opening of Nigeria’s land and air borders with neighbouring Niger Republic.

According to a statement issued by his special adviser on media and publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu also directed the immediate lifting of other sanctions against the country.

The statement further explained that the President’s directives were in compliance with the resolution of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government during its last extraordinary meeting in Abuja.

He said: “President Bola Tinubu has directed the opening of Nigeria’s land and air borders with the Republic of Niger and the lifting of other sanctions against the country with immediate effect.

“This directive is in compliance with the decisions of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government at its extraordinary summit on February 24, 2024, in Abuja.

“ECOWAS leaders had agreed to lift economic sanctions against the Republic of Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.

“The President has directed that the following sanctions imposed on the Republic of Niger be lifted immediately: Closure of land and air borders between Nigeria and Niger Republic, as well as ECOWAS no-fly zone on all commercial flights to and from Niger Republic.

“Suspension of all commercial and financial transactions between Nigeria and Niger, as well as a freeze of all service transactions, including utility services and electricity to Niger Republic.

“Freeze of assets of the Republic of Niger in ECOWAS Central Banks and freeze of assets of the Republic of Niger, state enterprises, and parastatals in commercial banks.

“Suspension of Niger from all financial assistance and transactions with all financial institutions, particularly EBID and BOAD. Travel bans on government officials and their family members.”

President Tinubu has also approved the lifting of financial and economic sanctions against the Republic of Guinea

AFC announces Emeka Emuwa as Chairman Board of Directors

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) the continent’s leading instrumental infrastructure solutions provider, today announces the appointment of Mr. Emeka Emuwa as Chairman of its Board of Directors.

Mr. Emuwa brings a wealth of experience spread over three decades leading and transforming banking institutions across Africa. After completing a sterling 25-year career with Citibank where he left as the Country Officer and Managing Director of Citibank in Nigeria, he went on to serve as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank of Nigeria. In this role, he led the bank’s transformation and worked successfully with the new shareholders to transform and restore one of Nigeria’s oldest institutions back to its rightful position as a credible and strong provider of financial services.

Mr. Emuwa’s extensive experience and unwavering dedication to the advancement of Africa make him a valuable asset to AFC at a time when the Corporation is rapidly expanding its operations across the continent and building partnerships through international collaborations.

He has been a part of AFC’s Board since 2015, previously serving as the Chairman of the Board Risk and Investment Committee, and as a member of the Board Nominations and Governance Committee. He is also the Chairman of Tangerine Financial (U.K.), the holding company for a financial services group providing insurance and pensions solutions across the continent. Mr Emuwa is thus well positioned to oversee and guide AFC on its future strategy and growth aspirations.

The Corporation’s mission to accelerate development impact, foster industrialisation, and enhance value capture and retention across the continent through the provision of critical infrastructure, is crucial for African development and prosperity.

Speaking on the appointment, Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of AFC, said: “Mr. Emuwa’s considerable experience, insightful perspectives and immense dedication to Africa’s development seamlessly align with our mission.

We are confident that under his continued guidance, AFC will continue to make significant strides in transforming the continent. He brings a deep understanding of Africa’s financial landscape within a global context, and has a clear vision for enabling AFC to further amplify its impact.”

Mr. Emuwa commented on his appointment, saying: “I am deeply honoured to be appointed Chairman of AFC, an institution that has, over the past 16 years, evolved into the leading infrastructure investor in Africa, delivering transformational projects across pivotal sectors of the economy. I look forward to continuing to work closely with the board, management, and all stakeholders to advance AFC’s mission and strengthen its role as a driving force for economic growth and infrastructure development on the African continent.”

AFC with its partners is the biggest investor in renewable energy in Africa following its recent acquisition of Lekela Power, and leadership of major wind power projects including in Djibouti. The Corporation’s development of special economic zones through its investee company ARISE IIP is helping to diversify the economies of nine countries, building a global manufacturing powerhouse.

AFC was appointed lead developer of the Lobito Corridor and Zambia-Lobito Rail Line, bringing together partners including the US government, the European Union, the African Development Bank and the governments of Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.

AFC enjoys an A3 rating (Moody’s) and has successfully raised and mobilised significant amounts of capital from global markets and investors to work alongside African domestic capital to develop the African industrial and infrastructure base.

DG ADMAC visits DG/CEO NiMet as both exchange ideas

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

The Director General of the African Centre of Meteorological Application for Development (ADMAC), Andre Kamga Foamouhoue, on Wednesday, paid a courtesy visit on Professor Charles Anosike, the Director General of Nigerian Meteorological Agency, NiMet, as both exchanged ideas

During the visit, Professor Anosike and Mr Foamouhoue exchanged ideas on meteorology, climate change and the socioeconomic impact, as it affects Africa.

Mr Foamouhoue also used the occasion to brief the DG/CEO of NiMet of the activities of ADMAC.

Professor Anosike assured that NiMet will continue to partner ACMAD because of the importance of the services it provides. He also said that it is important for member countries to continue to support the continental body to strengthen its operations.

African leaders pledge urgent action to sustain recovery, build resilience

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

By Favour Nnabugwu

 

 

 

The African Development Bank Group released the inaugural Africa’s Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook which attracted significant interest among decision-makers in Africa and globally.

The biannual report offers policymakers, global investors, researchers, and other development partners, up-to-date, evidence-based assessments of the continent’s recent macroeconomic performance. It also provides a short-to-medium-term outlook.

In his opening remarks, African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat told participants that the report would be presented to heads of state at the African Union Summit to help steer national planning. Adesina said.

He called for strong and collective support to Africa to help the continent navigate the challenges it faces, especially debt burden and debt vulnerabilities.

The bank president explained further: “Africa cannot run up the steep hill carrying a bag of debt on its back. The channeling of the additional $100 billion of Special Drawing Rights will make a huge difference. We must join hands to harness the enormous opportunities in Africa. There is no doubt that we will make good progress. However, we must work fast, be inclusive, and be competitive.”the G-21,” he added.

Acting Chief Economist and Vice President of the African Development Bank, Prof Kevin Urama, highlighted the importance of Africa’s Macroeconomic Performance and Outlook 2023.

He said: “As we gather here today, global macroeconomic conditions have become increasingly uncertain due to multiple overlapping shocks that make policymaking and investment decisions very challenging. Countries need regular diagnostics and focused policy actions to address these recurring and overlapping shocks.”

Professor Urama affirmed that Africa remains the place to invest despite suffering global shocks.

What the 2023 Africa’s Macro-Economic Performance and Outlook report says

Following two years of global shocks, the report notes that African economies are set to overcome various domestic and global shocks and return to a path of economic recovery, stability, and growth.

The lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the ravages of accelerating climate change, and the impact of rising geopolitical conflicts and tension slowed Africa’s growth to an average of 3.8% in 2022.

To sustain growth, Africa’s economies will require comprehensive information and insights to navigate a labyrinth of intertwined global risks, the report stated.

The bank will release the report in the first and third quarters of each year to complement its flagship Annual African Economic Outlook. The African Development Bank is the first institution to release a macroeconomic outlook for Africa for 2023.

IWMI seeks NiMet’s support on multinational project 

By Favour Nnabugwu
The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has requested for support from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, (NiMet) in the execution of a multinational project that includes Nigeria.
The Senior Researcher at IWMI,  Sander Zwart, made the disclosure when he led a delegation to NiMet Headquarters.
Speaking, Dr Zwart said they were about to embark on a huge project called CLiM O , ” We have this project coming up , it is called the CLiM O. It is led by the German Development Cooperation (GIZ).
The goal is to assist member states of the Niger Basin Authority to be more climate resilient and of course Nigeria is part of the Niger Basin”, He asserted..
Dr Zwart  explained that based on the information obtained online as well as consultations they discovered that flood and drought are major challenges, especially after last year’s flood.
He said this led them to develop activities that will ensure people are better prepared for flood now and in the future. To achieve this, he revealed that there are four components they have proposed for the project and that as their institution will drive the project, they are keen to have NiMet’s input.
He listed these components to be Hydrological modelling; Flood forecasting; Data sharing and Underground actions that involves how people can adapt themselves to flood.
In his response, the Director Weather Forecasting Services, Engr. Mailadi  Yusuf , who represented the Director General, assured the visitors of NiMet’s support, adding that NiMet is in close collaboration with Federal and State Ministries of Water Resources where the lead sister Agency that develops the Annual Flood Outlook (NiHSA) for the country is resident.
He stated that apart from predicting water availability for farming activities ( Onset of rain, duration and amount expected ) NiMet would soon engage water users across the country on dry season (irrigation) farming activities by delivering and training them on the use of the Seasonal Climate Prediction for optimal harvest outputs.
The CLIM O project, when fully implemented will support the member states of the Niger Basin Authority in strengthening transboundary governance of water resources, adaptation,and mitigation of the impact of climate change. The IWMI will lead the design and implementation of the project in the Benue River Basin.