News

I’m satisfied, I did my best for Edo – Obaseki

Published

2 weeks ago

November 6, 2024

Edo Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has said he is leaving office as the governor of the State very satisfied having undertaken bold reforms and projects that have transformed critical areas of the State.

He said this on Tuesday, when he led his Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah and former governor of Sokoto State, Senator Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal and other dignitaries to commission various projects in the State.

He listed his various achievements to include reforms in education, healthcare, economy, infrastructure and job creation, among others, and improving the livelihoods of the people and placing the State on the path of growth and economic prosperity.

Some of the projects commissioned include the Benin Technical College and some internal roads within the college spanning over 12 kilometers as well as the Edo State Education Hub which houses the Ministry of Education, Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability, Directorate of Higher Education, the State Examination Board, the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Library Board and Board of Technical and Vocational Education and Training, among others.

At the Commissioning of the Benin Technical College, Obaseki said he came, saw and did his best as the governor of the state in the last eight year.

He added that his government has restored hope of the people of the State, rebuilt Edo’s economy, and empowered and equipped young people in the State for the future.

“This afternoon, I am so glad that a week to the exit in my office, I can come here and see a rebuilt Benin Technical College. A college that is now giving hope to hundreds if not thousands of young boys and girls.

“I said, what greater glory or gift can you ask from God? I am leaving office very very satisfied and happy. That I came to this school, I saw the state of this college and I did my best.

His words: “This project is something I had to do because when I contested as governor of Edo State in 2016, we were facing existential threats. Our children didn’t want to go to school but rather preferred to travel for greener pastures.

“The rate of irregular migration and human trafficking was very scary for me. At the time, over 30,000 young Edo boys and girls were in Libya trying to cross into Europe; we had the data. You can imagine how many died on their way there.”

He continued: “While campaigning, I promised to restore hope and did what politicians don’t normally do, promising to create over 200,000 jobs, and by grace we have surpassed that.

“These jobs were not created by the government or the civil service as we focused on developing skills and training our young boys and girls in institutions like the Benin Technical School that just wanted hope and opportunity in life.

“When I resumed office on November 12th, 2016, I visited the Secretariat and the next day, I was at the Benin Technical College. If I am to create 200,000 jobs, I need the institution to do this. But what I saw when I came here, I almost wept and I made a commitment that restoring this school and renovating it will be my priority.”

Obaseki added, “I am glad this afternoon that a week to my exit in office, I can see a rebuilt technical college giving hope to thousands of young boys and girls. This is a greater joy and gift from God as I am leaving office very satisfied. I came, saw the State of the college and I did my best to revamp and rehabilitate it.”

Obaseki at the commissioning of the Education Hub, said the facility is a testament to his government’s revamp of the education sector.

The governor also named the hub after foremost educationist and Commissioner for Education in the old Midwest State, Chief Tayo Akpata.

He said, “Today, we are here to commission the Edo State Education Hub and this facility is like a summary of what we have done in Edo State. When we came, we met our educational system in disarray but today we are leaving a very organized education system. This hub represents that because this hub is everything education.

“In this facility, we have created a hall of fame for our teachers. The whole reform in Edo’s education sector was anchored on the teacher. The EdoBEST programme succeeded because we focused on teachers who eventually teach the children. Teachers should be at the core of any education reform.”

Commending teachers in the State for supporting the reforms of the education sector, Obaseki added, “As I leave, I want to thank all the teachers and educationists who laid the foundation of education in Edo State.”

Speaking at the event, the visiting Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mba, who described Obaseki as a transformer, said he has not only transformed Edo’s education sector but enhanced the learning abilities of Edo people.

He noted, “I am deeply honored to be invited to commission this landmark project as it’s a testament to the commitment of Governor Obaseki to transform the education sector.

“The governor has had an outstanding term in office with various remarkable transformational projects which not only transformed the education sector but enhanced the learning abilities of the Edo people.

“In the last eight years, the governor has been planting and it’s our hope that the young ones and people of Edo State would reap from the bountiful harvest of your selfless work for Edo people.

“It’s our hope that when the history of this State and Nigeria is rendered, posterity will not only be kind to you but will also preserve a noble seat for you for the great work you have done in Edo State.”

On his part, Senator Tambuwal while celebrating the governor’s achievements in the last eight years, described Governor Obaseki as an achiever and pacesetter.

He stated, “I am impressed with what I have just witnessed this afternoon through the philosophy of Governor Godwin Obaseki, and in no distant future Edo people will be missing you.

“I must commend you for the initiative of the education hub. It’s yet another first and has not been seen anywhere in Nigeria. I urge the people coming after you to continue with the good work as it’s not about politics but about governance and the people of Edo State and Nigeria.”

News

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

Published

3 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

3 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

3 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.