Author: GANUX

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has pledged the Federal Government’s commitment to foster policies that protect the rights, welfare, and security of maritime workers in the country.

 

Oyetola said this in a statement signed on Thursday in Abuja by his Media and Communications Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola, in commemoration of this year’s Workers Day celebration.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that International Workers Day, also known as May Day, is observed annually on May 1 to celebrate workers’ rights and highlight the vital role they play in driving socio-economic advancement.

 

The minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to prioritise investments in infrastructure, technology and training sessions that would enhance productivity and working conditions in the sector.

 

“Today, I join millions of Nigerians to salute the unwavering spirit and industriousness of our maritime workers, from seafarers and dockworkers to port administrators and regulators.

 

“Your efforts are the bedrock of our nation’s gateway to trade and economic prosperity, and the maritime industry is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic architecture.

Our sector remains vital to the realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

 

“Without your daily sacrifices and commitment to excellence, our ports and inland waterways would not function as efficiently as they do,” he said.

 

Oyetola hailed maritime workers across the country for their resilience, dedication, and invaluable contributions towards enhancing the marine and blue economy sector for the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s economy.

 

The minister gave the assurance that the ministry was committed to building a modern, secure, and thriving maritime sector that would create jobs, drive innovations, and enhance national development.

 

He called for continued collaboration between government agencies, labour unions, and private stakeholders to ensure that the maritime workforce remained competitive, well-motivated, and future-ready.

 

The Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos, said 60 graduates will receive Distinction certificates at its forthcoming seventh convocation ceremony.

 

The Provost of the institute, Mr Gbenga Adefaye, disclosed this during a press briefing on Wednesday.

 

He stated that a total of 707 students would graduate on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, across the National Diploma, Higher National Diploma, and Postgraduate Diploma programmes.

 

Adefaye revealed that the convocation lecture would be delivered by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr Bashir Adeniyi, on Monday, May 5, 2025.

 

Titled ‘AI and Public Governance’ the lecture would take place at the Sir Kensington Adebukunola Adebutu Media Resource Centre and would attract scholars, public servants, media practitioners, and industry stakeholders.

He added that the convocation ceremonies would be chaired by veteran journalists and the chairman of the NIJ Governing Council, Aremo Olusegun Osoba.

 

Commenting on the current state of journalism education, Adefaye noted that while admission numbers had declined due to COVID-19 and the proliferation of universities, the institute remains committed to delivering quality training in communication and media.

 

He mentioned funding as a major challenge, noting that as a non-federal institution, NIJ could not access the national student loan scheme, despite contributing through taxation.

 

“We encourage our students to embrace technology and artificial intelligence as tools for innovation and growth. We may also introduce AI-checking software to maintain academic integrity,” he said.

The National Assembly has stepped into the lingering industrial action by public primary school teachers in the Federal Capital Territory.

 

The teachers, under the Nigeria Union of Teachers, have been on strike over the non-implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage and other outstanding entitlements by chairmen of the area councils.

 

The industrial action, which began in December 2024 with two separate boycotts, resurfaced in February and has been ongoing since March, causing widespread disruption in public primary schools across the FCT.

 

Last Thursday, teachers and other local government workers staged a protest in Abuja, blocking the entrance to the office of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, at Area 11.

 

Reacting to the situation, Wike confirmed the release of over N4 billion meant for the payment of the new minimum wage and other entitlements.

 

He criticised the area council chairmen for failing to disburse the funds appropriately and subsequently summoned them for an emergency meeting.

 

Speaking in an exclusive interview with our correspondent on Wednesday, the FCT Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Stephen Knabayi, stated that leaders of the teachers’ union met with the leadership of the National Assembly on Tuesday.

“We were at the National Assembly yesterday. The meeting will continue next week. The council chairmen were asked to submit records of their allocations and expenses. They were asked to do that between yesterday (Tuesday) and Friday.

 

“They really want to understand why they are saying they don’t have enough funds for them to know how they can possibly intervene,” he said.

 

He further disclosed that the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA Treasury Department has also been invited as part of the investigation.

 

“The Treasury says N4.1 billion was released, while the council chairmen claim they haven’t received the funds. The money was for the purpose of solving the issue of workers.

 

“A committee has been set up to verify these claims and determine the next line of action,” he added.

 

When asked if the strike would be suspended following the National Assembly’s intervention, the union leader responded with skepticism.

 

“For us, all these things—they’re just buying time. We don’t believe them. Our action continues. By tomorrow, we will decide whether we’ll hit the streets again on Monday or Tuesday. We are not waiting for anyone,” he said.

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the resilience and dedication of the state’s workforce, calling for greater protection of workers’ rights and improved working conditions across sectors.

 

Fubara gave the charge in a solidarity message to mark the 2025 Workers’ Day, stressing that workers remain the backbone of the state’s progress and a beacon of hope amid current political challenges.

 

He said this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.

 

Fubara described the workers’ commitment as the backbone of the state’s development and a beacon of hope for a better future.

 

He said that this year’s theme, “Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate,” underscores the urgent need to protect workers amid escalating environmental threats and socio-political uncertainties and stressed the importance of prioritising occupational safety and well-being as essential pillars for sustainable growth.

 

He acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, in advancing labour reforms and promoting climate-conscious policies that support a healthier, safer working environment nationwide.

The statement partly read, “Governor Fubara expressed deep gratitude to Rivers workers who, despite political turbulence and governance disruptions, continue to demonstrate patriotism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty, emphasising that their sacrifices form the cornerstone of the state’s stability and advancement.”

 

Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to workers’ welfare, the governor called on all employers —public and private — to respect labour laws and uphold the rights and dignity of every worker.

 

He advocated for continuous improvements in working conditions to reflect both legal standards and moral responsibility.

 

Fubara offered prayers for divine wisdom and guidance for all leaders, pledging that his administration will remain steadfast in creating a work environment that nurtures dignity, opportunity, and prosperity for all.

 

He encouraged the people of Rivers State to stay hopeful and united, assuring them that the “forces of justice, peace, and progress will prevail in the end.”

The Nigeria Labour Congress has declared that the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, does not require any coalition with the Peoples Democratic Party or support from political figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar or ex-Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to win the 2027 presidential election.

 

Speaking in an exclusive interview, the Deputy President of the NLC Political Commission, Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, asserted that Obi remains a formidable and widely accepted candidate, capable of defeating President Bola Tinubu in a free and fair contest.

 

Ndubuaku dismissed any speculation about Obi rejoining the PDP, describing the opposition party as a “crisis-ridden and near-empty platform.”

 

He said, “Peter Obi doesn’t need any coalition to win the 2027 presidential election. He is a sellable candidate. If you recall, he was already coasting to victory in the 2023 elections before the controversial glitches. He even defeated Tinubu in his own stronghold in Lagos, which shows Nigerians want him in power.”

 

“For as long as INEC conducts a free and fair election, he will win. He can also leverage his local and international connections to make it happen,” Ndubuaku added.

 

His comments come just days after the Obidients Movement declared unwavering support for Obi, regardless of the platform he chooses to run on in 2027.

The National Coordinator of the movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, emphasised that Nigeria is in desperate need of rescue and said Obi remains the only candidate capable of leading the country out of its current economic crisis.

 

Echoing Tanko’s position, Ndubuaku insisted Obi commands nationwide acceptance across all six geopolitical zones and warned against any return to the PDP.

 

“No serious candidate will consider the PDP as a viable platform at this point,” he said. “Obi is a disciplined man. If people are suggesting he return to the PDP, on what basis? Compare the PDP’s issues with those of the Labour Party. While LP’s crisis—centering around Julius Abure—has been settled by the Supreme Court, the PDP is still battling a hydra-headed crisis. Moving from LP to PDP would be like jumping from frying pan to fire.”

 

He further noted that fears about zoning and power rotation are unfounded, especially in light of Obi’s reputation for performance.

 

“The only reservation some people have is that if Obi wins, he could take the full eight years, which the North fears may disrupt the zoning balance. But we know Obi doesn’t need two years to revive Nigeria. He’s not desperate for power,” Ndubuaku said.

A former federal lawmaker and 2023 Rivers State governorship aspirant, Dr Farah Dagogo, has paid glowing tribute to Nigerian workers, applauding their resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment to national service.

 

Dagogo stated this as workers across Nigeria join their global counterparts to commemorate the 2025 International ‘Workers’ Day’ on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

 

Dagogo, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party called for a better welfare for workers in view of the sacrifices they have made in building the nation.

 

He said this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday by his media aide, Ibrahim Lawal.

 

Dagogo who represented Degema-Bonny Federal Constituency then in the House of Representatives described workers in both public and private sectors as the driving force behind the country’s growth and development.

 

He noted that their contributions have continued to sustain the nation’s core sectors despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.

 

The statement partly reads, “Workers remain the bedrock of any society. Their sacrifice, dedication, and professionalism deserve our deepest appreciation. In the face of daunting challenges, Nigerian workers have continued to rise to the occasion. The general populace is truly in your debt. ”

 

Dagogo urged workers, especially those facing hazardous or strenuous conditions, not to be dispirited, assuring them that their sacrifices are not unnoticed.

He emphasized that it is crucial for all employers, both public and private, to ensure that workers’ welfare keeps pace with Nigeria’s current economic realities.

 

“Government policies in recent years have exposed the decay in critical sectors and infrastructure. A comprehensive and aggressive reform agenda must now be a national priority.

 

“Health, education, security, and other vital areas require urgent revitalization,” the ex-federal lawmaker added.

 

Dagogo called on government at all levels to invest in worker welfare and reimagine development strategies that respond to the needs of the working population.

 

“As we mark another Workers’ Day amid severe economic pressures, I advocate for improved welfare packages that reflect the courage and sacrifices made daily by our workforce. Their safety, stability, and livelihoods must be protected,” he stated.

 

Dagogo also expressed personal gratitude to workers under his employ, reiterating his commitment to continually improve their conditions.

“As an employer of labour, I know the importance of acknowledging and supporting workers. I regularly review and enhance the welfare of my staff in appreciation of their contributions. This is my modest way of saying ‘thank you’ for their invaluable service,” he said.

 

He further urged Nigerian workers to continue praying for the country’s prosperity and for divine wisdom to guide leaders in piloting the affairs of the nation.

The wife of the Abia State Governor, Priscilla Otti, on Tuesday, vowed to get justice for a female worker, Miss Gold James, from Okwu Olokoro in Umuahia South Local Government Area, who was allegedly maltreated by her employer.

 

Otti, who sent the Abia State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Maureen Ahukwa, to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, said she would also take steps to improve James’ life.

 

Speaking at the palace of the traditional ruler of Okwu Autonomous Community, Eze B.I. Izuogu, through the Commissioner, the governor’s wife expressed sadness over the woman’s ordeal and said she was keen on learning more about the incident.

 

Earlier in his speech, Eze Izuogu acknowledged awareness of the case and thanked Otti for her concern for women, children, and other vulnerable persons in society.

 

He also appreciated the state governor, Alex Otti, for promoting action-based governance in the state.

He testified that the victim, Miss Gold James, who is in her mid-40s, had no record of theft or criminal behaviour in the community and earned a living through menial jobs.

 

He expressed surprise that the employer, who was arrested by the police over the alleged assault, was later released, even though the victim sustained serious injuries on her back, shoulder, buttocks, and private parts.

 

Eze Izuogu further disclosed that after his release from the Ubakala Divisional Police Station, the man went on to sue some members of the community at the High Court in Umuahia, claiming his human rights were violated.

 

James, who recounted her ordeal, thanked Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti for her intervention.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Dr Adedeji Ashiru, on Wednesday, begged Nigerians to shun indiscriminate waste disposal.

 

Ashiru described indiscriminate waste disposal as a factor fuelling the flooding challenge in the country.

 

Ashiru, represented by the Executive Director, Finance and Administration of the Authority, Ayobami Oyalowo, made this call while declaring open a capacity building for flood sensitisation and awareness training in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.

 

The training was themed “Alleviating the Impact of Flood Through Proper Waste Disposal and Adequate Drainage System”.

 

The MD/CEO said that while some flooding challenges may be beyond what human beings can prevent, some are caused as a result of human activities, such as the dumping of refuse into waterways, building on water paths, among others.

 

Ashiru explained, “Floods are not merely natural disasters – they are often man-made crises amplified by poor waste management and inadequate drainage.

 

“We all have to desist from throwing refuse into waterways, the challenge of building on water paths is also there. All of these wrong behaviours are contributing to the challenge of flooding because water will have to find its way.

 

“Adequate management of waste is in our hands, it doesn’t matter who we are, knowing fully that there are consequences for all our actions. So, as Nigerians, we must all desist from this unhealthy and condemnable practice; there is a need for attitudinal change to defeat this unhealthy practice.”

Ashiru said that while the agency is embarking on a lot of activities revolving around flood and erosion control, it has also organised the training to lead the vanguard of awareness against indiscriminate waste disposal and help to curb the flooding challenge in the country.

 

The Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, also identified indiscriminate waste disposal as a major challenge towards curbing flooding in the country.

 

Oresanya said, “This is why I am also suggesting that we can begin to have our drainage channels covered up so as to restrict access and reduce the temptation of people dumping refuse into these waterways because they are left open.

 

“It is a policy that we can make to be part of our urban planning, we have to look at its dynamics, the cost-benefits and even how we can cover the existing ones, it should be part of our reviews and resilience plans for our cities.”

 

Oresanya said the state government will continue to partner with relevant government agencies and all other stakeholders to ensure that the challenge of flooding is reduced to the barest minimum in the country.

 

The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, represented by Babatunde Akinwumi, hailed O-ORBDA for organising the sensitisation training, saying that the goals of the Authority is in line with what the state is also doing to combat flooding.

Wahab said that the members of the public can not leave the challenge of flood prevention to the government alone, saying that there is a need for every individual to take responsibility and be on the same page with the government by doing away with the dumping of refuse into waterways.

Elder statesman and former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has renewed his urgent appeal for Nigeria to adopt true federalism, warning that the country risks disintegration if it continues under its current centralised structure.

 

Speaking at the 14th Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture Series on Good Governance in Enugu on Tuesday, Anyaoku stated that only a new democratic constitution that reflects Nigeria’s diversity can save it from the fate of other multi-ethnic states that have collapsed under similar strain.

 

“This country was more peaceful and developing faster in the first six years of our independence because it had a genuine federal constitution,” he said. “Each of the four regions had autonomy over their development, social services, and internal security.”

 

Anyaoku, 92, stressed that Nigeria’s unitary constitution has hindered good governance and national development, reiterating that without a structural overhaul, the nation remains at risk.

 

“Other multi-ethnic countries that failed to address their pluralism through federalism have since disintegrated. Nigeria must not continue along this path,” he warned.

 

The event, with the theme “The Imperative of Good Governance: Nigeria in a Global Comparative Perspective”, also featured other prominent voices calling for constitutional restructuring.

 

A former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maj. Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (retd.), who chaired the occasion, echoed Anyaoku’s concerns, asserting that Nigeria’s centralised system is fundamentally flawed.

“This is why I have long been advocating the restructuring of Nigeria into a proper federation,” he said. “State autonomy is critical—it brings governance closer to the people and enables them to harness their local resources for development.”

 

Nwachukwu also championed reforms in security and education, stating, “I stand for the creation of state police and community-based policing. Our school system must also be reformed to produce relevant human capital for development.”

 

In his keynote address, Nigeria’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, called for a radical rethinking of governance, starting with structural changes.

 

“There is an urgent need to significantly devolve power to the people through restructuring,” Gambari said. “We must also rejig the leadership recruitment process, retool the state to serve as a guarantor of security and unity, and foster a new elite consensus.”

 

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, who welcomed participants, emphasised that practical leadership must replace political rhetoric.

 

“Good governance—or the lack of it—is often the fine margin between a rising state and one in decline,” Mbah said. “Good intentions do not equate to good leadership. The people must be at the centre of policies and projects if we are to truly develop.”

 

The well-attended lecture series, hosted by the Youth Affairs International Foundation, reignited a national conversation on Nigeria’s constitutional future, with a resounding consensus that only true federalism can preserve its unity and ensur

e progress.

 

The Ogun State Government has called on residents to sustain healthy communication practices in their environment without contributing to noise pollution, as part of the 2025 International Noise Awareness Day celebration.

 

In a statement released to mark the occasion, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, emphasised the importance of responsible communication.

 

He made the call under this year’s theme, “Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Health.”

 

Oresanya noted that while communication is vital, noise pollution remains not just an environmental issue but also a major public concern.

 

He described it as a nuisance that has serious implications for public health and overall quality of life.

 

The Commissioner urged citizens to be more conscious of the noise they generate and to take deliberate steps toward creating quieter, healthier surroundings.

 

“It is realisation of this the Ministry of Environment is using the celebration to remind residents of the maximum permissible noise level for residential places, places of worship, places of Entertainment and Commercial areas.

“For residential areas, the permissible level is 50 decibels during daytime and 35 decibels during night time.

 

“For places of worship, the permissible level for daytime is 60 decibels and 40 decibels during night time , while that of places of Entertainment and Commercial Centres are equally pegged at 60 decibels and 40 decibel for day and night times”, he said.

 

Oresanya called on households, community leaders, and operators of entertainment and commercial centres to strictly adhere to the standard decibel limits applicable to them, warning that violators would face sanctions.

 

According to him, the state government sanctioned 175 noise polluters in 2024, including religious centres, entertainment venues, and commercial outlets. Out of this number, 45 were shut down completely for failing to comply with regulations.

 

The commissioner also urged Community Development Associations across the state to establish and enforce permissible noise levels within their neighbourhoods.

 

He stressed that such limits must be collectively agreed upon and respected by all residents.

 

Oresanya further pledged the state government’s continued commitment to public awareness campaigns, stakeholder engagements, and the use of moral persuasion as strategies to encourage voluntary compliance with noise regulations.