By Francesca Hangeior

The Senate Committee on Marine Transport has announced the indefinite postponement of a scheduled public hearing on the Nigerian Coast Guard Bill.

Originally set for November 7, the session was slated to take place at the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, with key stakeholders in attendance to address pressing issues in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The bill sponsored by Senator Wasiu Eshilokun (APC- Lagos), has the overriding intent to enact legislation that sought to contribute to the country’s security, with a special focus on the country’s maritime interests and regional coastal security.

He said that it was also to ensure adherence to global norms and standards as they relate to maritime security.

However, a statement issued by the Committee Clerk, Dauda Bukar, on Thursday cited the recent passing of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja as the primary reason for the delay.

Lagbaja died on Tuesday night at the age of 56.

This marks the second postponement of the hearing, which was previously scheduled for Wednesday, November 5.

Though no new date has been set for the public hearing, the Senate Committee has assured stakeholders that discussions on the bill remain a priority.

The statement read, “I am directed to inform all stakeholders and the General Public that the one-day Public Hearing organized by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport National Assembly on The Nigerian Coast Guard Bill scheduled to hold on Thursday 7th November 2024 at the National Assembly Library & Resource Centre has been Postponed indefinitely.

“New date will be announced in due course. This is largely because of the state of mourning for the Demise of the Chief of Army Staff Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”

…Says, not outcome they had hoped for

By Francesca Hangeior

Former United States President, Barack Obama, has said the electoral victory of Donald Trump in the election is not the outcome he had hoped for, noting the importance of a peaceful transfer of power.

Obama’s comments stand in stark contrast with Trump’s unprecedented refusal four years ago to concede defeat to Joe Biden, culminating with the violent attack by his supporters on the US Capitol on January 6, 2021.

In a statement on Wednesday, Obama said, “This is obviously not the outcome we had hoped for. But living in a democracy is about recognizing that our point of view won’t always win out and being willing to accept the peaceful transfer of power.”

The ex-president also voiced pride over the efforts of Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate Tim Walz, who were soundly beaten in the election.

Obama called them “two extraordinary public servants who ran a remarkable campaign.”

Adin Ross, an American social media influencer and streamer, has won more than $1,600,000 after placing a bet on Donald Trump, the nominee of the Republican Party, to win the presidency.

Prior to the election, Ross revealed on Instagram that he had wagered $1 million on Trump.

After Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris, Ross took home $1,600,000 from the bet.

Ross endorsed Trump during one of his live-streaming sessions a few weeks ago.

Donald Trump is the oldest American president ever elected. He is 78 years old.