Month: April 2025

NANTA TO DISCUSS COLLECTIVE, SHARED PROPERTY AS UFTAA PRESIDENT ADDRESSES ASSOCIATION IN LAGOS

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  CHUKS OKOH Determined to overcome the challenges posed by emerging market forces,  Nigeria’s biggest travel trade professionals body,  National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA), will  Wednesday, April 9th in Lagos, deliberate on key efforts geared towards institutionalising protective measures to insulate and deflate the strange travel trade market viruses troubling the sector. The gathering will also create opportunities to share and spread prosperity to its members. The association which was recently readmitted into  the fold of global travel trade industry association,  the United Federation of Travel Agents’ Associations (UFTAA), whose President,  Mr  Sunil Kumar is slated to address NANTA members at the event, signifies the intentional search by  NANTA President, Mr Yinka Folami and his council to find solutions in addressing frosty issues that have eroded and impacted the once lucrative Nigerian travel trade market. This gathering, which is tracked under the non-elective 49th Annual General Meeting of the Association with Theme, ‘ Collective Prosperity Through Market Protection’  will also have other key speakers, Dr kemi Pinheiro ( SAN) , Dr Joseph KITHITU , President,  Kenya Association of Travel Agents, who is also Director/ Vice President UFTAA at  the confab which will take place at Mercellina’s Place on Issac John street,  Ikeja by 10 am. The AGM Planning Committee Chairperson and National Publicity Secretary on NANTA, Mrs. Lola Adewole stated that an industry exhibition will be on showcase as part the one day gathering of industry professionals. This will bring critical service providers in the industry and buyers together in order to strategically unveil emerging opportunities and also to provide data to licensed companies and organisations offering different types of travel and tourism experiences and services.

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NAEE WANTS GOVERNMENT TO TACKLE SHORTAGE OF WORKING TOOLS.

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CHUKS OKOH, The President of the National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE), Engr Selzing Miri, has charged the government to provide enabling environment through the provision of working tools for engineers in the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to ehance their job Speaking at the recently concluded Annual General Meeting of the Lagos chapter of NAAE in Lagos, Engr Miri noted, that the agency was blessed with qualified and experienced air traffic engineers in the system but regretted that lack of working tools have hampered their ingenuity. He said for the engineers to make impact, the rightful tools must be provided to make them have the right frame of mind in thinking and carying their jobs “I want to appeal to our management, in as much as we want to make impact, we are limited with the availability of resources for tools to work. The management has a part to play in ensuring that we are given the rightful environment” Miri noted that while their foreign counterparts do their work with ease as if they were performing magic, as a result of the availability of tools, their counterparts in Nigeria remained handicapped due to lack of working tools Miri also lamented that  the engineers have been crying for operational vehicles for more than eight years and no solutions. He decried a situation  where engineers use motor bikes to go to work on some out stations across the country saying, that the absence of workshop and good working environment has reduced the engineers to a mere fault identifier engineers without solutions to the identified problems. Miri however expressed optimism that with the calibre of the management in place in NAMA led by Engr Umar Farouk, that things will change for the better.

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NCAA THREATENS TO SUSPEND INTL. AIRLINES OVER DEPORTATION OF PASSENGERS,DENIED BOARDING.

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CHUKS OKOH The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) says the agency will not hesitate to suspend or fine international carriers that sell tickets to passengers only to airlift them halfway to their destinations and deport them back to Nigeria. The Authority in a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, Director, Consumer protection and Public Affairs, said it received several complaints about the refusal of boarding/entry at intermediate transit stops to some Nigerians due to Visa/travel restrictions, adding that such is causing significant distress to passengers and tarnishing the reputation of the aviation industry in Nigeria The NCAA frowned at the practices, adding that it is the responsibility of airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their admissibility at their destinations before they commence their travel. ‘’Passengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or return to Nigeria only on arrival at intermediate /transit stops. “In line with the provisions of Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, all airlines and their agents shall ensure that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility issues or travel restriction in advance of their departure. Airlines must take appropriate measures to screen and provide passengers with accurate, up-to-date information regarding their travel documents and visa requirements before issuing a ticket and proceeding to board them. “In light of this, the NCAA informs all international airlines operating in Nigeria that the Authority will no longer tolerate these occurrences. Effective immediately, any airline found to be engaged in such practices would be subject to regulatory action, including but not limited to fines, suspension of flight operations or other measures deemed appropriate.”, it stated. The NCAA said it expects the cooperation of all airlines in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as ensuring the well-being of Nigerian passengers

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THE PROFESSOR ARTHUR.N. JIDEONWO THAT I KNOW : A TRIBUTE TO A PACIFIST AND AN ACADEMIC PURITAN

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  We were seated in 500 Lecture theatre in the year 1985 as the young looking, agile lecturer delivered a lecture in CHM103 class to 100 level students who were enthusiastic to hear the next sentence that would flow from the mouth of this man speaking fluent English and having good command of the language in explaining the new chemical concepts. Alas, a young lady provocatively dressed and with high-heeled shoes whose sound reverberated through the hall interrupted the silence of the class while some students showed their displeasure by making some catcalls . The Lecturer, Dr Jideonwo as he then was, stopped his lecture and said” now you say I yab, but on the day of the examination, it will be my turn to tell you students that you yab”. A roar of laughter from the students and in the next moment, the lecture continued with the same seriousness before the impudent distraction from the daughter of Eve. It struck me there and then, that this Lecturer had a common touch to lecture delivery; and a good mechanism for crowd control in addition to being in touch with common people and their antics. At higher levels he demonstrated punctuality and regularity to class. As my 200 and 300 level Course Adviser we saw twice, at the beginning when I went to register my courses and at the end of the session when when I registered for my 300 level courses. There was a conversation between us which kept my face in his memory such that when I returned to lecture in 2001, he could recall easily my most well known character-outspokeness. Professor Jideonwo alerted me to the banana peels in the Department though I was confident of the spikes in my feet that would always give me stability. While standing on the balcony of his office one morning, he called my name and informed me that I was due for promotion in that year. Indeed, I did not know and no one else alerted me to the condition(s) for promotion. He reminded me again three years later, though, I had become conscious of the rules. When the Department erupted into a volcanic site in the mid 2000s and for almost a decade, he remained neutral and it was common for the feuding parties to report themselves and their opponents to him. For his pacifism, some persons felt offended! He also suffered greatly as there were centrifugal forces who were determined to hold back his promotion for as long as it was possible. So bad that three bound publications he submitted for his professorial assessment in 2005 were not found and none was sent out till 2009. Yet the almighty God brought a comet, Professor E.P.Kubeyinje to rescue him! The opposition to his appointment as Head of Department was crafty and audacious by baseless anonymous petition posted in the internet in May 2009 just a month to when the Vice-Chancellor would appoint him. Despite his best efforts at being friendly and neutral in most intra Departmental feud, his die hard enemies would not rest as they engineered myriads of false allegations against him using his beneficiaries as tools. Yet, he triumphed without lifting a finger to resist the onslaught because God protected him. In my moments of travails especially against the entrenched forces who were determined to destroy my academic career at its infancy, Professor Jideonwo stood up when it mattered most to use the Office of the Head of Department to successfully midwife my PhD programme. The University of Benin would remember him as the scientist who defeated the lenghty legal submission of a Professor of Law on the floor of Senate on the 6th October, 2009 while the battle raged for Professor E.P. Kubeyinje’s second tenure as Acting Vice-Chancellor. In response to the antagonists of Professor Kubeyinje’s second tenure, he said ” Law has its root in common sense and logic; sitting as Chairman of Senate is the Librarian, the Chair of the Vice-Chancellor is vacant and Professor Kubeyinje is here as Provost. Therefore, Professor Kubeyinje is no longer a subject of discussion, the business of this Senate is to elect an Acting Vice-Chancellor”. With that statement, Senate terminated all the verbal vitriolic targeted at Professor Kubeyinje. Space would fail me to state the many good deeds of this puritan academic who insisted on maintenance of academic standard, succoured many who were distressed financially, assisted those who approached him, emphasised the need for friendship by his use of the common phrase “e spirit de corps”, stretched his hands of friendship to the lowly and was at peace with himself as he was highly contented with his life. He helped a good number of his younger academic colleagues to find their bearings. The high point of his career was when he said on the final day at work ” I never changed scores the records are there”. It was not a mere statement, even his traducers knew they could not assail that claim! Farewell my dear friend, the pacifist and academic puritan. You have enriched many lives in a variety of ways. Many of us shall always cherish your memory. BY: Professor Emmanuel E.I.Irabor Head Department of Chemistry University of Benin

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EDO TRIBUNAL JUDGEMENT AND THE TASK OF GOVERNANCE _OHONBAMU

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  The Judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja dismissing the petition filed by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo has upheld the supremacy of the law and given credence to the resilience of our legal system in ensuring that only right persons occupy elective positions. With this ruling which has definitely affirmed Senator Monday Okpebholo as the elected governor of Edo State, it is now incumbent on Edo people, irrespective of political affiliations to work with the administration to build a state that thrives on justice, peace and the well being of every citizen. Interestingly, It is no more news that the average Nigerian despise politics because it is regarded as a dirty game and its practitioners are viewed with suspicion, especially when those in opposition will not see anything good in what the government is doing However, this is not unexpected, given what some people regard as the failures of the political class, particularly some elected or those appointed into various positions. But, with the calibre of some politicians today, there is a changing attitude of politicians. People are becoming more politically conscious and enlightened. They are becoming more probing of politicians and administrators to enable them score their performances. Some public officers are equally becoming more dedicated to service with the urge to live up to the expectations of their people. Today, the Executive Governor of Edo state, Senator Monday Okpebholo, also known as Akpakomiza belongs to this class of public officers striving to leave a mark for posterity sake in the art of governance. The governor started his political journey by building a foundation based on his strong desire to meet the needs of his people with the provision of the necessities of life such as water, schools and roads even when he was not yet in government. It is public knowledge that during the eight years of the previous administration in the state, the people became frustrated as they found themselves in a state of hopelessness and despondency because of the in-action of the immediate past governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki The technocrat used contractors who were imported to the state to embark on construction jobs, sidelining Edo State people and using consultants who were engaged to take over the functions of the civil servants, while some legacies of former Governor, Samuel Ogbemudia were pulled down all in the name of reforms. But, barely five months in office, the Senator Monday Okpebholo administration has overwhelmed both residents and visitors to the state with remarkable giant strides as he makes a lasting impression in governance. In a nation where public officers are often in the firing line due to allegations of corruption and other misdeeds, so far, Governor Okpebholo is building a reputation of honesty and displaying his sincerity of purpose to transform Edo state to an enviable state in the comity of states in the country. The Governor has demonstrated his resolve for transparency in governance, by applying the laws for whosoever contravenes the law and no one will be protected. There is no doubt that Edo people are gradually building an unshakeable trust in the governor whose words are his bonds as his actions speak louder than words. This has been demonstrated lavishly in the governance of Edo state since November 12th 2024. With the land mark judgment of the Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, Edo people should expect the best from this politician who is in a hurry to ensure the state is risen Unlike most politicians who lack tenacity of purpose, Governor Okpebholo has so far been sincere with every promise made to the people of Edo state . When he expressed his displeasure over the poor condition of the roads in the state, before the election, he was very concerned about the plight of the people who use the roads. Barely few days on assumption of office, the Governor commenced the first fly over bridge in the state to solve the traffic situation along the Ikpoba Hill axis, and he has commissioned contractors to work on several dilapidated roads within Benin City and other places including the Benin – Ekpoma road. There is no doubt that Governor Okpebholo is a man with integrity, hard working and determined to change the narrative of governance in the state. It is therefore, now necessary for all well meaning sons and daughters of Edo state across the country and in diaspora to support the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo to succeed with the task of governance ahead. Hon Paul Ohonbamu Commissioner for Information and Communications

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TRIBUNAL JUDGEMENT: GODDY FRANCIS OKOYO HAILS OKPEBHOLO, EDO APC.

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A top notcher of the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Director of the Diaspora Committee of the 2024 Edo Governorship Campaign Council, Mr. Goddy Francis Okoyo (GFO), has felicitated with Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on the confirmation of his governorship seat, by the state’s Election Petition Tribunal, yesterday, at Abuja, the federal capital city. Okoyo, a Canadian based Chartered Accountant and Behavioural Scientist, who is also a valuable figure in the diaspora affairs of the APC, used the opportunity of the victorious declaration, to urge Senator Okpebholo, to rededicate himself to the service of the people, under the same plank of love, peace and togetherness of the people, which he said the governor had introduced, adding that it is a recipe for the swift advancement of the state, that had been misruled by the immediate-past administration. Mr. Okoyo, who had also served in different capacities at the national level of the election campaigns of the ruling party, also called on the party at the state, and others in the opposition, to join the governor to build a viable Edo State, which all should be proud of. In a judgement that had been mostly hailed by all and subdry as transparent, the three-man judicial panel, headed by Justice Wilfred Nkpochi, which earlier dismissed two other petitions also filed by two political parties, against Senator Okpebholo, had similarly nullified that of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, a runner-up in the election.

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DACAA SEEKS GOVT SUPPORT FOR PROCESSING CENTRES IN AIRPORT

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CHUKS OKOH The Domestic Airports Cargo Agents Association (DACAA) has called for establishment of cargo processing centres in all airports in Nigeria to boost economic growth. The association’s Acting Chairman, Board of Trusties, Mr John Ekeanya, made the call at the 21st aanniversary celebrations of the association/inauguration of the association’s new executives in Lagos. According to Ekeanya, the contributions of members of the association is vital because the association has presence at all airports across the country. “We are a key player in the medium scale enterprises sector and offer employment to numerous Nigerians. “Our contributions to the nation’s gross domestic products are obvious. We therefore, call on policymakers to incorporate our input. “Cargo processing and storage structures in all airports should be considered, including but not limited to availability of storage facilities, cold rooms, weighing equipment, and screening machines. “We call on the Federal Government, through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, to consider domestic cargo handlers in Nigeria’s robust aviation blueprint,” he said. In his inaugural speech, the newly-elected President of DACAA, Mr Godwin Obasuyi, called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to provide the association a site for its permanent site. He said: “We have contributed immensely to the labour force. We engage in essential services, and our cargo carriage per week is between 70 to 80 tonnes. “This kind of revenue, as port charges, should not be neglected by the authorities. We hereby call on FAAN authorities and other aviation stakeholders to come to our aid by providing a conducive permanent place for our operations,” he said. Comrade Ade Ijala, the General Secretary of DACAA, said that handling frozen goods had been a challenge to members of the association. He urged FAAN authorities to consider setting up a cold storage facility for ease of handling perishable cargoes. “We handle frozen foods and medicals that needed to be frozen, and we do not have a storage facility. That is the area we are lagging behind. “When it comes to physical handling, we are very okay,” he said.

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GREEN AFRICA AQUIRES FIRST OWNED AIRCRAFT.

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CHUKS OKOH, After the disagreement between Green Africa and it’s lessors, the air line has announced the acquisition of its very first owned aircraft. The incoming aircraft, an ATR 72-500 with manufacturer’s serial number 852 and registration mark 5N-GAB, is expected to enter into service shortly after customary regulatory approvals. According Omolara Kehinde, brand marketing Green Africa, Access Bank, one of the largest banks in the country has provided a Naira debt facility to partly fund the aircraft acquisition. Babawande  Afolabi, Founder & CEO of Green Africa, said: “We are pleased to acquire  our very first aircraft, another significant milestone for Green Africa. This in coming aircraft will be pivotal as we thoughtfully navigate the next phase of our journey to bring safe, affordable and reliable air travel to a broader group of customers in the region.” Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director / CEO of Access Bank, commented: “As one  Of the largest and leading financial institutions on the continent, we at Access Bank take special pride in supporting young businesses that have the potential to redefine their industries and act as major catalysts for positive impact in their local market and on the continent at large. We are impressed with the Green Africa story and excited about the brand’s future trajectory. We are delighted to support the acquisition of Green Africa’s very first owned aircraft.” Green Africa was launched against the backdrop of COVID-19 and entered revenue service in 2021. Green Africa has since established a strong presence in the domestic market  as one of the most affordable and punctual airlines in the industry.

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OPENING CEREMONY OF THE 2 DAY HUMAN RIGHTS WORKSHOP FOR NIGER DELTA CHURCH LEADERS AND PARTNERS.

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Opening ceremony of the 2 Day Human Rights Workshop for Niger Delta Church Leaders & Partners in Abuja on the theme” Understanding United Nations Human Rights System: Strengthening Local & International Advocacy For Niger Delta Church Leaders & Partners facilitated by World Council of Churches ( WCC). The 2 Day Workshop was declared open by the Primate, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba. ANEEJ is represented by the Executive Director, David Ugolor who is also co-facilitating the workshop. He is joined by Paul Odokara at the Workshop.

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GODDY FRANCIS OKOYO (GFO)SALUTES SALUTES PRESIDENT TINUBU AS HE CLOCKS 73

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Nigerian leader and President of the most populous black nation in the world, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been congratulated on his 73th birthday anniversary, admist numerous other tributes, he has been receiving from fellow world leaders, political associates, well-wishers and the public. The salutation was through a press statement, made available to journalists by Mr. Goddy Francis Okoyo, a Canadian based Chartered Accountant, Management Consultant, and Behavioural Scientist, who is also a notable chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), from Ughoha Ward of Esan South East local government area of Edo State. Mr. Okoyo, a philanthropist and one of the pillars of APC Diaspora, who is more known in the enlightened circles as GFO, an acronym, regarded Tinubu, the number one citizen as a true Nigerian patriot and nationalist, who had fought gallantly for the entrenchment of democracy and the rule of law, thereby voicing out his optimism that he was going to be real father of a modern-day Nigeria, with his current policies that are geared towards taking the country and the people from economic, social and political doldrums. “Rome was not built in a day and most of the prosperous nations of the world, that we see today, had gone through similar initial problems, that Nigeria is currently facing, before they became what they currently are”. Thinking rightly, Mr. Okoyo, who further urged Nigerians to brace up amidst the difficult situations, which he said they will overcome, maintained that “a man cannot make the omelette without breaking the eggs”. Okoyo, a natural grassroots mobilizer and strong campaigner, who had served variously as a member of medical sub-committee of the 2023 APC National Convention, Media Committee of the 2023 APC Edo State Presidential Campaign Council and others, including a Director of Diaspora on the 2024 Governorship Campaign Council of the party, wished the President the realisation of his lifetime ambition and struggle for the unity of all Nigerians and making the country a more prosperous may nation, that would be the envy of the world.

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