News

Speaker Abbas Reiterates Commitment of FG In Regulating Wildlife, Conservation

Published

4 weeks ago

October 24, 2024

By Gloria Ikibah

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has reiterated the commitment of the federal republic of Nigeria to regulating wildlife trade, conserving migratory species, and protecting ecosystems.

The Speaker who stated this during a public hearing on the Endangered Species Conservation and Protection Bill organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Treatise, Protocols and Agreements and Committee on Environment on Thursday in Abuja, said the country aims to achieve this through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Speaker Abbas, who was represented by the Deputy Minority Leader, Rep. Ali Isa, notes that the hearing emphasises the collective commitment to safeguarding the rich biodiversity that Nigeria is blessed with, and to ensure the future of our precious flora and fauna.

According to him, Nigeria has an exceptional range of wildlife, from the majestic African elephant, to the Calabar Gorilla, the vibrant Nigerian grey parrot and the magnificent West African manatee.

Abbas said, “these creatures are not just captivating inhabitants of our forests, savannahs, and waterways, they are integral to the delicate balance of our environment.

“Their presence plays a vital role in maintaining ecological stability, supporting healthy ecosystems, and providing vital resources for our communities.

“The rate at which species across Nigeria are facing extinction is a stark reminder of the urgent need for a decisive legislative action to halt this negative trend.

“We have become the world’s most significant transit point for illegal ivory and pangolin scales smuggled from Africa to Asia. Between 2016 and 2019, more than half of pangolin scales seized globally came from Nigeria. In January 2019, Hong Kong Customs seized $8 million worth of elephant tusks and pangolin scales from a shipping container from Nigeria.

“Conservationists estimate that Nigeria has less than 500 elephants, 100 Cross River gorillas and about 50 lions left. Pangolins are endangered or on the brink of extinction. At the same time, other species are in decline, including crocodiles and antelope species such as cane rats and duikers, which are widely available in ‘bush meat’ markets across the country. This decline is due to habitat loss, poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and Climate change which adds another layer of complexity to the challenges faced by these already vulnerable species.”

The Speaker lamented that the loss of biodiversity weakens the resilience of the ecosystem, making it more susceptible to environmental disturbances.

“The disruption of ecological balance can lead to the decline of other species, impacting food security and potentially triggering unforeseen consequences for human health, he said.

According to Abbas, while taking actions to protect the environment, it opens up great opportunities of turning our wildlife and environment into economic use.

“Ecotourism, which relies on healthy ecosystems and vibrant wildlife populations, can be a powerful driver of economic growth. Our investment in this sector will, in turn, create jobs, generate revenue, and promote sustainable development that will benefit local communities and the country at large. This will help diversify our national economy and ease the pressure on the oil sector.

“This Bill, therefore, is not merely a legislative exercise; it is a critical step towards fulfilling our moral obligation to protect the environment and preserve the legacy of these invaluable species for future generations.

“It seeks to establish a robust legal framework that will address the multifaceted challenges threatening our endangered animals and plants such as illegal wildlife trade by imposing stringent penalties on those involved in the trafficking of endangered species, promote sustainable wildlife management through the establishment of conservation areas and the implementation of community-based conservation initiatives. amongst others,” he noted.

Chairman, Committee on Treaties, Protocols, Rep. Rabiu Yusuf, said the Bill represents a critical step in the collective efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s biodiversity, to protect endangered species, and ensure the sustainable management of precious natural resources.

According to him, “it serves to fulfil Nigeria’s international commitments.

“Nigeria is blessed with a rich and diverse array of wildlife and ecosystems which are increasingly under threat.

“The stark reality is that we are witnessing an alarming decline in biodiversity, driven by habitat destruction, deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, poaching, and climate change. Our natural resources, once abundant, are now vulnerable to over-exploitation and mismanagement, placing several species on the brink of extinction.

“As we stand at this critical juncture, the need for a strong legislative framework to conserve and manage our wildlife has never been more pressing. The Bill before you today offers a comprehensive solution to the challenges we face and aligns our national policies with international best practices,” he added.

Rep. Yusuf said the bill is structured to address wildlife protection, sustainable use of natural resources, wildlife reserves and protected areas, enforcement and compliance, as well as public awareness and education.

He asserted that while the Bill sets the stage for meaningful legislative action, it is only part of the solution and that true success will require the collaboration of germane stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, local communities, and the private sector.

And that it will also require strong regional and international cooperation, particularly in combatting cross-border wildlife crime.

“By passing this Bill, we are not only protecting Nigeria’s wildlife but also making a profound commitment to posterity. The preservation of our ecosystems is essential for the well-being of our people, our environment, and our economy. Without healthy ecosystems, we jeopardize the very resources that support agriculture, water supply, tourism, and rural livelihoods.

“Apart from the protection of our ecosystem, there is a great economic opportunity staring us in the face. Ecotourism, is of great economic value that will create manifold jobs, generate revenue, and promote sustainable development which will be of benefit to local communities and the country at large,” he stated.

The Ministry of Environment in their submission said there was the need to conduct an in-depth species inventory for the proper categorization of all species into schedules based on scientific data.

Representing the Director of Forestry, Dr Moses Ama, posited that Bill be stepped down to allow for a comprehensive, evidence based assessment of the nation’s wildlife population and conservation status to be conducted by the Ministry.

Also other stakeholders called for stiffer penalties for defaulters.

News

See Photos of World’s Tallest and Shortest Women Meet for Afternoon Tea in London

Published

7 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Naijablitznews

The world’s tallest woman and the world’s shortest woman met for the first time this week, sipping tea from china cups — and bonding over what they have in common while celebrating their differences.

Jyoti Amge, shortest woman, and Rumeysa Gelgi, tallest woman, meet for the first time and share afternoon tea

Rumeysa Gelgi, from Turkey, stands at 7 feet and 0.7 inches, while Jyoti Amge, from India, is 2 feet and 0.7 inches.

Jyoti Amge, shortest woman, and Rumeysa Gelgi, tallest woman, meet for the first time and share afternoon tea

“You’re so beautiful,” said Gelgi, 27. “Thank you — you too,” replied Amge, 30.

Their meeting, over afternoon tea at London’s Savoy Hotel on Tuesday, came ahead of Guinness World Records Day, which is held annually in November to mark record-breaking achievements and encourage people to attempt records. The pair have been honored as “World Record icons” in the 70th anniversary edition of the Guinness World Records book.

Story continues below advertisement
“Meeting Jyoti for the first time was wonderful,” Gelgi said in a release Wednesday. “She’s the most gorgeous lady. I was waiting to meet her for a long time.”

Gelgi said the pair bonded over their love for makeup, jewelry and doing their nails.

Video footage showed them sitting down for tea, cakes and sandwiches stacked next to them, with the London Eye visible from the window.

Amge said in the release that she was “so happy to look up” and see the world’s tallest woman, whom she called “good-natured.” She added that it was difficult at times for the pair to make eye contact “due to our height difference.”

“Guinness World Records is all about celebrating differences,” its editor in chief, Craig Glenday, said in a statement ahead of Guinness World Record Day, which is on Thursday.

“By bringing together these two amazing, iconic women, they can share their perspectives on life with each other and, also, with us,” Glenday said.

Gelgi’s record-breaking height is due to a rare genetic condition called Weaver syndrome, which causes rapid growth, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders.

Story continues below advertisement
The primary symptom is growth and bone development that occurs faster than usual, making those affected taller than average. People with Weaver syndrome may have rigid muscles and difficulty extending their elbows or knees.

Gelgi used a walking aid for support during the pair’s meeting. Her case of Weaver syndrome was the 27th ever diagnosed and the first in Turkey, according to Guinness World Records.

Weaver syndrome is generally caused by changes in the EZH2 gene, according to the NORD, though the organization notes that some people with Weaver syndrome do not have a mutation in the gene.

Story continues below advertisement
Amge, an actor who played the character of Ma Petite in the television series “American Horror Story,” has a genetic growth disorder that occurs in the early stages of fetal development, known as achondroplasia.

According to Johns Hopkins, the condition causes shorter bones, abnormally shaped bones and shorter stature. While the genetic defect can be passed from parent to child, in about 80 percent of cases, achondroplasia results from a spontaneous mutation that occurs in the developing embryo.

On Thursday, Gelgi shared photos on Instagram of the two exploring London despite the cold weather, posing side by side in front of Tower Bridge.

News

Speaker Abbas Decries Gross Inadequacy In Health Sector Despite Annual Allocation

Published

8 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Reps. Tajudeen Abbas, has lamented that the health sector is still grossly inadequate and far below what is invested in other countries, despite the considerable amount is allocated annually by the Federal Government.

The Speaker also said alot more needs to be done if the life expectancy of the average Nigerian is to rise as well as a reduction in infant mortality.

Abbas stated this at a public hearing for four bills organised by the House Committee on Healthcare Services at the National Assembly Complex on Friday.

The Bills are “A Bill for an Act to to Amend the National Residency Training Act 2018”; “A Bill for an Act to Amend the National Insurance Authority Act 2021”; “A Bill to Amend the National Tobacco Control Act”; and “A Bill to Establish the Institute of Healthcare Service Administrators of Nigeria”.

The Speaker who was represented by Rep. Obordor Mitema, member representing Ogbia Federal Constituency of Bayelsa State, said it was for this reason that President Bola Tinubu, recognizing the urgency of this situation, prioritized healthcare as one of the pillars of his Renewed hope Agenda for Nigeria.

According to him, this was to revive the country’s healthcare sector and to ensure it receives the necessary support partnerships with the private sector within and outside Nigeria are being explored and hopefully in the not too distant future we shall see vast improvement.

He said, “Though the Federal Government appropriates a considerable amount yearly to the health sector, the amount is still grossly inadequate and far below what is invested in other countries.

“It is no longer news that despite the committed efforts, the health Sector has sadly over the years faced several challenges associated with outbound medical tourism, emigration of skilled healthcare workers, poor salaries and insufficient budgetary allocation.

“It is also sad to note that even though Nigeria has the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Africa the progress it has achieved in health has been rather slow and disappointing hence, more effort is needed if we are going to be at par with Western countries.

“Indeed more needs to be done if the life expectancy of the average Nigerian is to rise as well as a reduction in infant mortality.”

Speaker Abbas commended the Acting Chairman of the Committee, Rep. Bassey Akiba and the entire members of the committee for organizing this hearing.

He said it is a reflection of their commitment and support to do their quota towards helping Nigerians achieve not only better health but having access to better healthcare.

“We all know the significance of having a Health Sector that works. Western countries have taken bold steps to make their Health sector first class and second to none and we must do the same.

“The House Committee on Healthcare Services and other Health related Committees of the House of Representatives and indeed the National Assembly are fully committed to doing their part by initiating and amending laws that will always be people friendly with the aim of bringing succor and positive changes towards the Health sector in Nigeria.,” he said.

Rep. Akiba, said the healthcare sector in Nigeria over the past few years has gone through a myriad of challenges.

The challenges, according to him, includes the rising cost of healthcare services, financial challenges for providers, preventable medical errors, high mortality rates in both cases, lack of insurance coverage, the need for an improved mental health system, increased demand for personalized care, and a well-regulated health care system among others.

“As parliamentarians, it is our responsibility to discuss critical legislation that will not only shape the future of our nation’s health but impact possibly other people.

“Public hearings are essential because it is one of the crucial avenues used to sample opinions on any matter of public relevance and importance. Like I mentioned, there are four bills.

“Three of these bills are an amendment bill, three of the bills are an amendment bill, and one is an establishment bill. I wish to assure you all that as legislators and members of the Committee on Health Care Services.

“We are conscious of our constitutional and legislative resources towards the people. We are ready to partner with relevant stakeholders and support any genuine effort required to improve the healthcare system in Nigeria,” he said.

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) said, A Bill to Amend the National Residency Training Act should be dropped for more input by relevant stakeholders.

The Association said the Medical Residency Training Act was a bill primarily sponsored by Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), an affiliate member.

First Vice President of the NMA, Dr Benjamin Oluwatosin, said It was a surprise to them that the primary constituency on the Bill was never contacted for input.

He urged that the Bill be stepped down to get more input of relevant stakeholders.

“So, in solidarity to our affiliate NARD and the validation of the Medical Residency Training Act we strongly advise that this bill be stepped down until every stakeholder involved and primarily NARD and then NMA is on the table from the very beginning,” he said.

Stakeholders who attended the hearing included representatives of the Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors, Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, Committee of Chief Medical Directors among others.

News

Reps Demand Details Of Project Undertaken From Ministry Of Solid Minerals In 2024 Budget

Published

8 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

The House of Representatives has directed the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development to provide details of all projects embarked on in the last year.

The Chairman Committee on Solid Minerals, Rep. Jonathan Gbefwi gave the directive when the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mary Ogbe, appeared before it to defend the 2024 budget.

The committee members expressed displeasure with the inconsistencies in the presentation by the Permanent Secretary and resolved that all documents pertaining to all jobs carried out by the Ministry be made available before next Tuesday.

The lawmakers also queried the Ministry for not capturing most of the projects it embarked on in the presentation it made.

Gbefwi said, “We are expecting the budget and we cannot appropriate if we do not know the true status of the utilisation of what has been given you in 2024.

“We were quite detailed when we sent you then documents we required. You must provide details of all the projects, budget codes, budget items, appropriated amount, contractors, amount awarded, date of award, the status of the projects, the percentage with regards to performance, and the lot numbers among others.

“So all these individual items must be captured in detail in this document so that Nigerians would know how the money that has been appropriated has been utilised.

“There are a number of projects that were not captured in the presentation to the Committee. There was no explanation whatsoever.

“Don’t give us any half baked documents again. Every line must be adhered to. And give us the advertisment that was done, the code the contractors and everything. Even if it is before. FEC. Kindly put it in the remark section. Go and work on your documents again and make proper presentation. Let’s have a comprehensive submission,” he said.

Earlier the Permanent Secretary said a total of N25.05 billion was appropriated as expenditure outlay for the ministry in the 2024 budget.

“This comprised of 894.4 million as overhead cost and 23.15 billion as capital expenditure. The personnel cost of the Ministry was captured in the captured still in the Ministry of Steel Development for 2024 because the personnel separation had not been fully executed.

“On appropriation releases to the Ministry, she said for overhead, the total appropriation is N895, 441, 335. As at October 31st 2024, N745, 367, 779 had been released. Balances as at October 31, is N149, 073, 555. Percentage of releases of the appropriation for the overhead is 83 percent. Expenditure on release is the same amount that has been released. So there is a hundred percent performance. For capital appropriation it is N23, 150, 884, 863. Out of which N2, 724, 818, 977 has been released. 11 percent had been released and percentage performance is 100 percent.

“The Ministry achieved a 100 percent utilisation mainly of non debt recurrent expenditure and the percentage utilisation in capital as at the end October is 11 percent. This is because procurement process is still ongoing and some are awaiting FEC approval. With the bottom up cash plan, works must be executed before payment,” she said.