News
Ekiti Governor Emphasizes Support for Workers’ Living Wage
Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has stressed the importance of fiscal federalism, allowing states to afford a living wage for Nigerian workers. Speaking at the 7th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) in Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji reiterated the Nigerian Governors Forum’s (NGF) stance that no state governor wishes to retrench workers due to the inability to pay the new minimum wage.
Oyebanji addressed the ongoing debate between organized labor, state and federal governments, and other key stakeholders regarding the proposed new minimum wage. He emphasized that while governors support a living wage, it must align with the states’ financial capacities. “The NGF is not against the living wage or the minimum wage,” Oyebanji said. “But it must reflect fiscal federalism and the ability to pay. No governor wants to retrench workers, but without a concurrent increase in state revenue, it would be impossible to afford the new minimum wage.”
During his speech, Oyebanji urged Ekiti State workers to embrace agriculture, highlighting his administration’s efforts to clear over 2,000 hectares of land for free distribution to interested residents. He encouraged civil servants to form cooperatives to benefit from available agricultural support, including free land clearing, input provision, and purchase agreements from the government.
Governor Oyebanji underscored the vital role of civil servants in the state’s governance, describing them as the driving force behind state operations and the implementation of his administration’s Six Pillars. He credited their efficiency and effectiveness for the administration’s achievements and accolades.
“I am here to associate and celebrate with you as key stakeholders in our state’s governance. This conference is not just for senior civil servants; it is a platform for all of us to learn, share experiences, and exchange ideas. I am here not just as a Special Guest of Honour but as a student of Public Administration,” Oyebanji concluded.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, visited the Akwa Ibom State Governor’s Lodge in Uyo on Friday to offer her condolences over the passing of Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, the late wife of Governor Umo Eno. She praised Mrs. Umo Eno as a peaceful, God-fearing woman who truly cared for her community. During the visit, Mrs. Tinubu signed a condolence register and participated in special prayers, emphasizing the importance of love and support for one another, regardless of political differences.
Mrs. Tinubu expressed her gratitude for having known Mrs. Umo Eno, recognizing her commitment to serving the people. Governor Umo Eno thanked the First Lady for her compassion and referred to his late wife as his greatest partner, promising to continue the initiatives of her office in the state. The visit was also attended by the Vice President’s wife, Hajiya Nana Shettima, and the wives of other National Assembly leaders, highlighting a sense of unity and compassion during this difficult time.
President Bola Tinubu has awarded Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), the nation’s second-highest national honor.
This announcement was made by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, in a statement on Friday night. The honor follows ongoing debates between the Senate and the House regarding the Speaker’s eligibility for a higher accolade.
During his Independence Anniversary speech on October 1, President Tinubu had previously awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) to the Speaker and the Deputy Senate President, prompting discussions in the House for a more prestigious honor.
Onanuga noted that the President was influenced by the House’s request and decided to rectify what he termed a “historical error.” As a result, the Speaker’s honor was upgraded from CFR to GCON, in line with the National Order of Precedence. The Speaker, Senate President, and other National Assembly leaders, along with the Chief Justice of Nigeria, will be formally honored in a ceremony at a later date, according to the Presidency.
Operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arrested two teenagers for suspected oil theft and destroyed several illegal refineries in Ukwa West Local Government Area, Abia State. The operation was part of the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad’s ongoing efforts to tackle oil theft and economic sabotage.
According to NSCDC’s Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, the squad raided a swampy forest in the Umuorie/Umukala community, uncovering illegal refineries with over 20 local drum ovens. The squad’s commander, DC Apollos Dandaura, confirmed the arrests and reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to eradicating illegal oil activities.
Two suspects, 16-year-old Endurance David and 13-year-old Abadiedot Anieke, were apprehended, while others fled. Several items, including pipes and reservoirs used to siphon crude oil, were recovered. Investigations are ongoing, and the suspects will be prosecuted once inquiries are complete.
Oluremi Tinubu Condoles Akwa Ibom Governor on Wife’s Death
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Tajudeen Abbas Awarded GCON by President Tinubu
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