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Reps Quiz Federal Polytechnics Damaturu, Mubi, Monguno Over Infractions

Published

2 months ago

November 24, 2024

By Gloria Ikibah

The House of Representatives has queried the Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Adamawa State, Federal Polytechnic Monguno, Borno State and Federal Polytechnic Damaturu, Yobe State over series of administrative and financial infractions.

This was as Rectors and some management staff of the three institutions appeared before the house Committee on Polytechnics and other Higher Technical Education, as part of oversight function to render accounts of their budget performances.

But the Committee found various infractions in the documents presented by the three institutions which ranged from abuse of Federal Character in employment, Extra-Budgetary spendings and recurring abandoned, uncompleted projects in one of the institutions.

During presentation by the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Mubi, Dr. Abdulrahman Ishaku, the Committee discovered that projects that were to be completed in two to three years were not finished despite adequate release of funds in budget.

Specifically, the Committee was provoked by the non-completion of a staff quarters and an administrative block project by the institution for years.

Speaking, Rep. Emil Inyang who stood in for the Committee Chairman, Rep. Fuad Kayode Laguda at the meeting on Thursday, lamented that, the projects have not been completed and have been recurring in the budgets.

He said, “Physical Planning, can you show me where you rolled over the project to 2023? It’s not here. Is it in 2024? Why do you come here to lie? Where is it? That admin block, is it in use? Has it been completed? So, you have abandoned it.

“Gentlemen, I don’t know what to say to these kinds of people. Construction of staff quarters, Item number Nine under 2022 capital projects. Have you seen it Rector? What is the state of that building? Is it completed? It is completed, that’s what is shown here, and you are saying it is still remaining fittings. Is fittings not part of completion?

“You people are just disgracing yourselves. We are just killing this country from various directions. From our various positions we are just killing this country. Let me ask a question on this staff quarters. In 2022, the amount appropriated was N57.9 million, N28.9 was utilized was released, so remaining N28.9 that’s half.

“But, by 2023, appropriation was 88 and the entire amount has been released. So, is it the same project?If it is the same project, when this appropriation was done, does it mean that, the other 28 that was not done, not utilised that time, is it kept somewhere?”

The Rector however informed the Committee that, the fund was later mopped up.

In his ruling after the submission, the Chairman stated, “What I will tell you now is that, instead of going through this your document that does not satisfy anything, please, you will.list all the abandoned, all the structures you have not completed. When it started, How much was appropriated, How much you have put in till date, the state of those projects one after the other in the entire school.

“Not just in. your regime. From inception till date.So that, we will include them in your 2025 budget. You will not do any new thing as capital. You must complete these abandoned. You have turned some of these projects to conduits of putting money into them and not completing them. Even the ones you have written as completed here. You used your own mouth to tell us here that, you have not installed fittings. That is what you said.

“So, this is why it is necessary for us to go there and see things for ourselves.Because what you are doing here, you are just wasting governments’ resources. These abandoned projects or the state of the jobs especially constructions, let’s have it in one week time. How much you have put in there, at what stage are they, how much you will need to complete”.

Similarly, the Committee criticized the Federal Polytechnic Damaturu over using Insecurity as an excuse for financial malfeasance and other infractions as well the abuse of Federal Character in employment.

Chairman of the Committee noted that, the institution has carelessly spent its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) according to the records presented to the Committee.

In his presentation, the Acting Rector, Dr Ibrahim Babale Gashua said, the institution is faced with the challenge of low IGR as a result of the insecurity being faced in the state, which according to him, has reduced students intake and other activities.

He said, “We that are residing in Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, we have three different high institutions. We have to lower our tuition fee because not everybody will come from outside the state. Even those in the state, it is only the course that is not available in their places that they come for in Damaturu because of the insurgency”.

The Committee however discovered that, despite the insurgency claim that reduced the institutions IGR, there was no commensurate reduction in its spending which the Committee said cannot be justified.

Another member of the Committee while commenting on the matter said, “Everybody comes to claim insurgency. Students don’t want to come to the schools. But it doesn’t stop them from spending the whole money.IGR, you blow it, Overhead, and yet, there is insurgency. So, it’s funny. You see, if I have a house and I am supposed to have 10 people occupying it. If 10 people are not occupying it, it means that my NEPA.payment, my PHCN money will reduce, because consumption of power supply will reduce. My water consumption will reduce. My number of cleaners will reduce because I don’t have full occupation. You understand what I am saying? My security personnel will reduce in terms of numbers.

“So, these are the issues.Most of the Polytechnics in the North come here brandishing this insecurity issue as the major reason for non performance. You are not performing on students admission, but you are performing on your expenditure profile”.

Speaking, Chairman of the Committee said, “Ok, this insurgency is a big excuse. Once you mention it, you will all close our mouths.Look at your Nominal Role, a federal Institution. Open to page 47 and 48, you will see how you have obeyed the law of the land, the Federal Character. Have you seen it Acting Rector? That’s the best you can do? You think from all those Zero-Zero states, if you offer them employment they wouldn’t come?”.

The Rector however reacted saying, “Some of them don’t come. Even those that we have left. I am telling you Sir”.

But a member of the Committee, Rep. Adebayo Adepoju faulted the Rector’s claim and said, it was not justifiable.

He said, “You cannot defend it, because if you are trying to defend it, saying that you’ve done everything in your powers and Nigerians have refused to come to your school, at that point, you say you have done the most you can do.

“But, when you did not even given Nigerians the opportunity to apply. We know what goes on in Federal Character. We know. I am telling you, if you go there and you want to apply, everybody has an interest, they give you. And before you know, they give you Certificate of Compliance.

“That Certificate of Compliance, we have shredded it so many times. Give yourself the opportunity to be fair to Nigerians.People want jobs in this country. We have so many jobless people and you will agree with me, there are many that will say, I won’t mind to go to Borno to teach.Please let’s give them an opportunity”.

The Rector and Management of the Polytechnic were directed to remedy the anomalies in their employment and henceforth advertise all vacancies in national dailies in order to give all Nigerians equal opportunity.

Similarly, after a presentation by the Rector, Federal Polytechnic Monguno, Prof. Garba Mohd, the Committee directed the institution to also be diligent in its observance of Federal Character and other issues as the Committee discovered a skewed empolyment in the institution in favour of a particular section of the country.

It reminded the Rector and members of his management that, as a federal institution, it is required by law to treat all parts of the country in terms of employment and other considerations.

Related Topics:abandoned chairman school States students

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NASS Clerk Appointment Must Prioritize Merit, Transparency – Speaker Abbas

Published

10 minutes ago

January 27, 2025

Gloria Ikibah

…partners Senate President on reform bills for workers, career advancement

By Gloria Ikibah

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, has announced his sponsorship of bills to amend the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) Act, which is aimed at ensuring merit and transparency in the appointment of the Clerk to the National Assembly.

The bills, co-sponsored by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, seek to introduce reforms that prioritize career progression for legislative workers and enhance efficiency within the National Assembly administrative framework.

Speaker Abbas who emphasised the need for experienced legislative professionals to lead the National Assembly bureaucracy, noted the controversies that often mar the selection process for the Clerk to the Assembly.

The Speaker stated this during the presentation of the exit report by the 5th Commission of the National Assembly Service Commission, led by its Chairman, Engr. Ahmed Kadi Amshi, on Monday in Abuja.

He said: “One persistent challenge facing the National Assembly Service has been the lack of a well-defined succession plan. The recurring crisis surrounding the appointment of the Clerk to the National Assembly and other key positions highlight the need for urgent reform. The absence of clarity in succession plan undermines the service’s stability and efficiency. As the legislative arm of government, the National Assembly cannot afford such disruptions.

“To address this, I am pleased to inform you that the National Assembly, led by my counterpart in the Senate, His Excellency Sen. Godswill Akpabio, GCON, along with myself, has initiated amendments to the NASC Act. These amendments aim to streamline the qualifications and processes for appointing key officers, thereby ensuring merit-based and transparent succession.

“Furthermore, the amendments will provide new entrants into the Service with clear guidelines on career progression, eliminating controversies surrounding promotions and aligning the scheme of service with the broader vision of the Commission and the National Assembly.”

Speaker Abbas reaffirmed the steadfast commitment of the House to fostering a strong and collaborative partnership with the NASC.

“As partners, we commit to fostering an efficient, productive, and professional National Assembly Service,” he said, adding that through collective efforts, the House would ensure that the National Assembly “continues to grow and develop to serve the evolving and complex needs (of the National Assembly) and the constituents we represent.”

The Speaker highlighted that the presentation reflects a commendable tradition that has strengthened and advanced the institutional growth of the Commission over the past 25 years.

He emphasised that it reinforces the principles of accountability, transparency, and continuity, which are fundamental to effective governance.

Speaker Abbas also acknowledged the significant role parliamentary service commissions play in shaping and consolidating democracies, especially in developing nations, and noted that the NASC has been instrumental in supporting the National Assembly’s transformation into the vibrant institution it has become.

“In contrast to the Federal Civil Service Commission and the Judicial Service Commission, which have long histories and greater resources, the NASC has faced significant challenges. Nevertheless, it has made impressive progress in enhancing the institutional capacity of the National Assembly, ensuring it meets its constitutional responsibilities.”

While congratulating the outgoing Chairman of the NASC, Engr. Ahmed Kadi Amshi and his team of Commissioners, he thanked them for their service to the National Assembly and Nigeria, and said that over the past five years, their stewardship has advanced the Commission’s mission and vision and strengthened the institutional backbone of the legislative process.

Speaker Abbas further noted that their efforts in upholding the Commission’s mandate as a cornerstone of democracy, while fostering professionalism within the National Assembly bureaucracy, are highly commendable.

He said: “Over the last 25 years, the National Assembly has achieved significant milestones. The legislature has transformed into a formidable institution, contributing to national development through effective lawmaking, oversight, and representation. The remarkable growth of the various organs and agencies of the National Assembly highlights the importance of institutional development.

“However, we must not rest on our laurels. The journey to establish a strong, independent, and productive legislature requires continuous improvement, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.”

The Speaker urged the NASC to continue focusing on recruiting capable personnel with the requisite skill sets, enhancing the capacity of its workforce, and maintaining discipline within the Service.

“Without these essential elements, no institution can thrive. A well-trained and disciplined bureaucracy forms the foundation of an effective legislature. The National Assembly Service must be primed to attract and retain the best talents while fostering a culture of professionalism and integrity,” he stated.

Earlier while presenting a 13-page document to the Speaker, Amshi highlighted the challenges and successes of the NASC in the last five years.

The chairman noted that the outgoing Clerk to the National Assembly, Sani Magaji Tambuwal, would retire in five days’ time, while the outgoing NASC board would be working with the incoming Clerk to the National Assembly, Barrister Kamoru Ogunlana for only five days before the end of its tenure.

News

LASG seals buildings without permit

Published

2 hours ago

January 27, 2025

Naijablitznews

The Lagos State Government has sealed multiple buildings being constructed without planning permit in Lagos Island as part of the on-going clampdown on defaulters.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, who led the exercise reaffirmed government’s firm stance against illegal building constructions.

The affected properties that were sealed for lacking the requisite permits for building construction include: Number 7 Okesuna Street, 42/64 Okepopo Street, 11/15 Sunmonu Street, 22 Olushi Street, 8 Isalegangan Street.

Others are on Oroyinyin, Faji, and Omididun Streets, among others. While cautioning contravening building developers, Olumide said that it had become imperative for government to compel the right and positive attitude from the people towards physical planning laws, after months of gracious amnesty to buildings without planning permit.

According to him, the amnesty program provided an opportunity for property owners to regularise their building permits without facing immediate penalties.

“Unfortunately, many disregarded this initiative while it lasted and now proceed with illegal constructions that fail to meet structural, environmental, and safety standards.

“Our goal is to encourage compliance, ensuring that Lagos remains a safe and orderly city for all residents.

“The exercise will be extended to other parts of the State to ensure compliance.

“No doubt, unregulated developments pose significant risks to the built environment, including structural collapse, environmental degradation, and disruption to planned city layouts.”

The commissioner decried the spate of illegal building construction on Lagos Island, especially building on narrow strips of land that leaves no room for adequate setbacks and air spaces, as he ordered the stoppage of the ongoing construction on number 8, Isale gangan Street for its narrowness.

He warned residents, property owners and property developers of their civic duty to obtain necessary approvals before embarking on building construction, while urging owners of adjoining small parcels of land to seriously consider the land-pooling option to aid livable, organised and sustainable built environment.

Olumide highlighted the importance of whistleblowing on illegal constructions, saying that residents were encouraged to provide information that would assist the government discover physical planning contraventions at their infancy and act promptly in the interest of all to sustain the State’s development agenda as it relates to the physical planing sector.

Other officials on the operation exercise include: Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Olumide Sotire, Directors in the ministry and top officials of the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority, LASPPPA.

News

EU Ambassador Highlights Nigeria’s Untapped Potential for Trade, Investment

Published

2 hours ago

January 27, 2025

Gloria Ikibah

By Gloria Ikibah

The newly appointed European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, has reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in solidifying its position as a stabilizing force in Africa.

Ambassador Mignot expressed optimism about Nigeria’s journey towards becoming a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable nation built on a strong democratic foundation that upholds the rights of all its citizens.

The envoy stated this at a media luncheon with journalists in Abuja, acknowledging the vibrant role of the European Chamber of Commerce (Eurocham) under the leadership of its Chairman, Yann Jigler.

He outlined plans to explore untapped opportunities for enhanced trade and investment, while launching new initiatives and projects aimed at strengthening the partnership between Nigeria and the EU.

However, the Ambassador noted the absence of a formal agreement or structured dialogue framework between Nigeria and the EU on trade and economic issues.

He expressed the willingness of the EU to address this gap by fostering better economic relations and dialogue to remove barriers that hinder increased European investment and trade in Nigeria.

Ambassador Mignot further reiterated that EU relationship with Nigeria is anchored on shared values such as human rights, democracy, the rule of law, multilateralism, and adherence to international law. He underscored the importance of aligning mutual interests to ensure a stronger and more dynamic partnership.

“The EU interests to see Nigeria consolidate its role as an anchor of stability in Africa and progress on its path towards a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable future, resting on a robust democracy and allowing all citizens to enjoy their fundamental rights.

“This strong partnership in particular applies to the trade and investment relationship. Nigeria’s first trade and investment partner, more or less one third of external trade for a direct investment in Nigeria is with the EU. And we have a vibrant European Chamber of Commerce, Eurocham, and the chairman of Eurocham is with us also today, Yann Jigler, and I will give him the floor just after my presentation to tell you a few words about the Eurocham annual stakeholders conference which will take place next Thursday in Lagos.

“And we want to help Nigerians in this endeavour, of course with the full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and also with the doses of humility, because especially in such a large country we cannot pretend that all cooperation is the main driver of change.

“And of course here the role is a very important role, the press has a very important role to play as a clinging house, let’s say, to explain to people and make the difference between the truth and the fake news.

“And as I told His Excellency the President during the credential ceremony, in uncertain times, in a fast evolving world as today, you need a constant and faithful partner on whom you know you can count.

“And the EU is and wants to be this for Nigeria and we feel that the reciprocity is true and we see Nigeria as a key partner and a major player in Africa and in the world and the next few years.

“And our new leaders are very much interested in Nigeria and we hope to have high-level visits and meetings soon to announce, to impulse our relationship at a higher level.

The Envoy stated that the EU mission was to strengthen the already existing partnership and give visibility to achievements in Nigeria.

According to him, EU-Nigeria partnership in Nigeria suffers from a lack of visibility still and there is need to combat it, not only in Nigeria but in other parts of West Africa and in the world.

He mentioned that the EU would also combat disinformation and misconceptions which are sometimes fostered by people and foreign interests, or simply in many cases misconceptions from people of good faith that seem to be ill-informed or influenced by fake news or disinformation.

“And so my mission, or rather our mission, because it is a teamwork in fact, is to propose and implement decisions made by our leaders to strengthen our partnership. And in fact it has two aspects.

“The first aspect of our mission is to give visibility, more visibility, to what we are already achieving in Nigeria and with Nigeria.

“And the second part is to impose new initiatives and projects to exploit the untapped potential of this partnership. So we are in fact already doing a othe stressed.

“Through the global gateway strategy I have just mentioned and investment agenda, we want to focus more on creating jobs and opportunities, especially for young people in Nigeria, building on Nigerians’ great sense of entrepreneurship and in sectors like green economy, digital, agri-food and health. And this is actually already an ongoing work. And we want to pay special attention to the north of the country where there are specific needs but also a great sense of entrepreneurship again.

“And we could witness this a few days ago during a recent trip to the northeast and we have a package of ongoing and new projects there. Now we could also sign science, technology and investment and innovation agreements to foster projects and opportunities in higher education and research. We want also to further strengthen our engagement in peace and security, responding better to Nigeria’s needs and expectations” he said.

Responding to questions on migration, Ambassador Mignot assured that EU will develop a migration partnership with Nigeria covering all aspects, the fight against smuggling and trafficking of human beings, legal pathways to respond to both parties’ interests, work with diasporas and also the issue of readmission and reintegration of migrants not admitted to remain in the EU or stranded in their way to Europe.

“And we hope very much to finalize the negotiation of a readmission agreement which could pave the way to a broader partnership. On regional issues and global issues we want also to achieve a closer consultation with Nigeria.

“The European Union is already the main supporter of ECOWAS and of course we have a vested interest in supporting the whole region in the same way as we want to support Nigeria. Development and prosperity and stability of West Africa is also key for us. And finally on all issues we want to partner more closely with Nigerian authorities at federal and local and state levels” he ended.